The Mountain Times August 2024

MOUNTAIN TIMES MOUNTAIN TIMES

Volunteer Group Dedicated to Restoring Salmon River Trail

By Adrian Knowler

The Mountain Times

A committed group of volunteers has been meeting almost every week this summer to restore access to the Salmon River Trail in the Mt. Hood National Forest.

The crew of volunteers was one of many such groups organized by Trail Keepers of Oregon, or TKO. The team hiked about five miles into the wilderness area in mid-July with saws and other hand tools to clear and repair the trail that has been blocked by downed trees, many of which are believed to have fallen down during the previous winter’s historic ice storm.

The July 18 maintenance event marked the eighth time this season the group, led by volunteer crew leader Hope McKee, has set off to improve the trail for hikers and backpackers.

This year, TKO is celebrating its 17th anniversary, and the organization is looking to expand its conservation and educational efforts by bringing on volunteers who want to

Fire Engulfs Camp Arrah Wanna Maintenance Shop

By Ty Walker

The Mountain Times

A fast-burning fire consumed the Maintenance Shop in the heart of Camp Arrah Wanna in the early morning hours Sunday, July 14. Summer interns at the popular Welches

community retreat discovered the fire at 1:15 a.m.

Hoodland firefighters were called to the scene, arriving at 1:20 a.m. only to find a fully involved fire, with large flames lighting up the dark sky. Despite their quick response, the fire

had already destroyed the building. Large and small equipment, tools, and numerous operational and maintenance supplies also were engulfed by flames.

Max Remembered as Community Loving Pup

By Anne-Marie Spencer For The Mountain Times

If you spent enough time at the golf course in Welches, you probably were friends with Maximus the French Bulldog. Max, as he was affectionately known, walked his owners who lived in the condos onsite with the goal of making new friends and greeting old ones. If you were an adult, he’d crawl in low to say hello if you so much as made eye contact. If you were a child, he’d flop over onto his back in the universal dog symbol

for “You have nothing to fear from me.” He’d always seek out Dave and his pup, Lily; Timber the St Bernard and his people and Augie the course marshall for one of those treats he kept in his pocket. He was also amazingly skilled at helping find lost golf balls. “He knew more people than we did,” said his owners Anne-Marie and Laurence. “Someone would call out, ‘Hey Max!”and we’d ask each other, do you know who that is? He loved people, all people, no one was a stranger.”

Sadly, Max passed away Sunday

June 30 from complications of IVDD, a hereditary condition found in several breeds, including Frenchies. “The outpouring of love from the community has been incredible,” added Anne-Marie. “We’ve received written notes, flowers, countless emails and texts, as we see his friends, we give them the news and we cry together. It’s been so comforting for us to know how much he meant to people here.”

For everyone who knew Max, he definitely left a paw print on their hearts.

See CAMP FIRE Page 13

See SALMON RIVER TRAIL Page 11

Fri-Sat/August 2 & 3

10am-3 pm at the Welches

Entry is

Lots of Treasures/Live Music/Raffles BBQ Lunch with Hotdogs and All the Fixings (Available for Purchase)

Justin Andres Mountain Profile

Mountain Profile

FAVORITE TYPE OF MUSIC? Classic rock and pop

FAVORITE FOOD? Cheeseburger and Fries

PLACE OF BIRTH? Memphis, TN

HOW LONG ON THE MOUNTAIN? 8 years

IF YOU WERE NOT BROUGHT HERE AS A CHILD, WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAIN? My wife and I were living in Denver, CO, at the time and decided we wanted to relocate to the Pacific Northwest. We flew to Portland to go house hunting but couldn’t find anything that spoke to us. The night before we were supposed to leave, we found a listing on Zillow for our dream home. All it took was a single trip to the mountain to find our dream home and community. We drove up the mountain that morning, put an offer on the house that afternoon, flew back to Denver, and got off the plane to discover our offer had been accepted.

PROFESSION? Owner, Mountain Honey Media. Mountain Honey Media is a new videography and digital consultancy agency aimed at helping local small businesses reach new audiences online. I’ve worked with Page’s Mt. Hood Auto & Tire, Rhi-lax Spa, and Cooper’s Wine Bar.

OTHER PROFESSIONS? Copywriter, Editor, Creative Director, Journalist

FAVORITE MOVIES? John Carpenter’s The Thing, The Avengers

FAVORITE ACTRESS/ACTOR? Cate Blanchett and Kurt Russell

FAVORITE TV SHOWS? Downton Abbey (my wife and I rewatch it around Christmas every year)

FAVORITE BOOK? Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

FAVORITE HOBBIES? I write, build original LEGO sets, and entertain my eight cats and my single, outnumbered dog IF OFFERED A DREAM VACATION, WHERE WOULD YOU GO, AND WHY? Ireland. My wife and I are both anglophiles. We went to London on our honeymoon and loved every second. Extending that experience to Ireland and the rest of the UK would be magical.

BEST LESSON LEARNED AS A CHILD? People aren’t thinking about you the same way you’re thinking about you.

DEFINING MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE OR YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

December 16, 2011, when I somehow convinced the most wonderful person in the world to be my wife. We married two years later, on October 5, 2013.

A MEMORABLE DINNER? Meeting my in-laws in a cramped apartment in Denver in 2010. I made very lumpy mashed potatoes (they’ve since gotten better) and even fixed my future wife’s garbage disposal. I felt confident and adult all at once.

A FUNNY MOMENT FROM YOUR LIFE THAT YOU CAN SHARE? The first time I tried flying my drone, I lost it in a group of towering trees. My wife’s first inclination that something was wrong was when I burst into her office while she was on a conference call and shouted, “Catastrophic failure!” I’ve since gotten better.

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANYONE (PAST OR PRESENT) TO DINNER, WHO WOULD IT BE, AND WHY? Kurt Vonnegut. I’d love to hear his insight on today’s world and maybe steal some story ideas from him.

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE WORD? Creative

WHEN YOU’RE NOT READING THE MOUNTAIN TIMES, WHAT BOOK/AUTHOR/MAGAZINE/OTHER DO YOU READ? Neil Gaiman, author of The Sandman comic series and Neverwhere. He can do no literary wrong.

IF YOUR LIFE WERE MADE INTO A PLAY OR MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE TITLE BE? My Time on Couches: Life as an Indoor Kid

PET PEEVE? People who fail the shopping cart test.

BAD HABIT YOU’D LIKE TO BREAK? Cigarette smoking … they’re just so good

FAMOUS PERSON(S) YOU HAVE MET, AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES? Sam Donaldson, a former nightly news

anchor I met as a member of the Junior Statesmen of America in 2000 at the RNC.

FAVORITE QUOTE? “Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.”

—Carl Jung

FAVORITE PART OF THE MOUNTAIN TIMES? Letters to the Editor. Whether I agree with the opinions or not, it’s fascinating to get insight into the perspectives of my friends and neighbors and how they feel about local and international events.

Overcoming Hurdles In Life and On the Track

By Joe O’Leary

The Mountain Times

Amongst a very promising group of young men and women that walked across the graduation stage from Sandy High School in June, incoming Mount Hood Community College freshman Ryan Hoffman is certainly one of the most determined of the bunch. He is going to college to participate in track and field, which he did for his final three years at SHS, as well as working to achieve an Associate degree in engineering. Of the options Hoffman had after high school, the route he took was the only one that included furthering his athletic career.

“I was just bored, honestly,” Hoffman explains, “It was sophomore year and I needed a sport to do, I got cut from basketball, and track and field seemed like the

way to go.” From a young age, Hoffmann possessed a knack for finding something to dedicate himself to. During 2020, at the peak of the COVID19 pandemic, Hoffman and a few of his friends from around his neighborhood formed a street basketball league, a very lackluster showing of a

friend groups’ talent on a lowered rim. Everyone took the league surprisingly seriously, recording statistics from the games and holding a yearly playoff.

“The late nights after getting home from school and waking up early to play was truly amazing and I took it all for granted. There was a determination we all showed day in and day out, a battle for greatness,” Hoffman said. At the time, basketball on the road with friends was something that kept the young man’s wheels turning.

As the world reopened and organized sports returned, however, Hoffman found his groove with the Pioneer’s track team, after stints trying school football and basketball. In his senior season, Hoffman was most impactful in the 400 meter, the high jump, and the 4 x 400 meter relay. Placing 16th at districts in the high jump, as well as being part of a 4 x 400 team that placed 7th, Hoffman fought all season to give the team his best.

“Even through injuries all season, I held firm in believing in myself and my training,” Hoffman said. This summer Hoffman has been constantly working in the gym to get stron-

ger and faster as well as working for himself as an independent landscaper. Starting the business, which he advertises on the Sandy community Facebook forums, Hoffman was simply looking for a little money on the side, to supplement his service job at Red Lobster. Two months later, he was making more than enough money from the endeavor to justify quitting his job.

“It turned into my full time job. I have fun meeting new people but mostly I just love making people feel happy about their yard,” Hoffman explained. Looking towards college, Hoffman hopes to continue to improve his ranks on the track, as well as keeping his business alive for many summers to come. It’s clear that as he has progressed through life, Hoffman has been constantly able to find something to dedicate himself to, whether it’s trimming hedges or participating in community college track. It’s an admirable trait that seems less common every day. And, as he continues to dedicate himself to his athletic goals, it’s hard not to root for someone with the dedication of Hoffman.

Sandy Pack Wins Northern Oregon Cal Ripken 9U State Title

By Ty Walker

Mountain Times

The

Congratulations to your 2024 state champion Sandy 9-and-under baseball team. Next up: The regionals.

The Sandy Pack went undefeated with a 5-0 record en route to winning the Northern Oregon Cal Ripken State Championship the weekend of July 12-14. With the title, Sandy received an automatic berth in the Pacific Northwest Regional tournament.

Sandy beat the Lower Columbia All-Stars 11-3 in the championship game at Main City Park in Gresham. Sandy

dominated the competition throughout the fourteam midsummer classic, with the exception of an exciting 12-11 comefrom-behind victory the first time the Pack played Lower Columbia.

“The team really came together,” Sandy head coach Mike Kosderka said. “We had tryouts in August and September and they all have been practicing very hard all through the winter and through the crummy spring season here in Oregon because it’s always raining. They all played really well, it was neat to see them.”

High-scoring Sandy

set the tone early, stringing together lopsided victories against most of their opponents. The Pack defeated Gresham Barlow 16-6 and the Lakerige Pacers 13-3 before coming back to beat Lower Columbia 12-11. The Pack then closed out the tournament by beating Gresham Barlow 11- 1 and Lower Columbia 11-3.

“There are two things that stand out the most about the team,” Kosderka said. “The kids are great and they are really into baseball and really love it. Even when we have optional prac -

tices, everybody shows up.”

“It’s a testament to how much they enjoy playing but it’s also a testament to their parents because their parents are fantastic and everybody gets along. That’s what really makes it special.”

Sandy will face some tough competition July 24-27 at the 2024 Pacific Northwest Cal Ripken Regional Tournament 9U in Meridian, Idaho.

The regional is going to be a challenge because it’s 10 state championship teams – so they are all really good. The 9U Champion will be given

an automatic bid to the Cal Ripken 10U World Series in 2025. Dates and location have yet to be determined for the World Series.

“I think we’ll go there (regionals) and compete well,” Kosderka said. “Hopefully, we can win a couple of games and see what happens.”

The Sandy Pack is made up of 12 players living in the Oregon Trail School District. They are a club travel team playing in tournaments primarily in the Portland metro area.

“It’s pretty exciting,” Kosderka said. “The 12 kids all will go to Sandy

HS. They play kids from all around the Northwest. They compete really well against other club teams.”

THE SANDY PACK

ROSTER: Benjamin Kosderka CF/P

Hudson Mansfield P/2B

Jaxon Harvey C

Luke Nowka 3B/P

Jacob Rohrbough 1b/P

Hunter Baker IF/P

JJ Harrell RF

Kaden Maki LF/P

James Schmidt RF

Ryker Burbach SS/P

Landon Mengis 1B

Jackson Sanchez OF

Mt. Hood Baking Co. Business Booms First Year

By Ty Walker

The Mountain Times

Is it their warm sourdough bread fresh from the oven? Is it their selection of seven savory sandwiches? Or is it their croissant pastries that melt in your mouth? It’s all of those things and more that keep customers coming back to this quaint bakery tucked away in Welches.

The first year is often the toughest for a new business. Trying to make it on the mountain is no easy task. But all the hard work seems to have paid off for Mt. Hood Baking Company owner Susan McWilliam, who is cele -

brating her first year of doing business.

Susie Blue, as she’s also known, said business has been better than expected since opening to rave reviews the first weekend in May last year, when she sold out of everything.

“It was amazing, really great,” Susie said. “We have a lot of regulars who get sourdough bread every week. That kept us going through the slower times in the winter. The summertimes are really busy with all the people who go up to the mountain.”

Susie is enjoying brisk business this summer, with all the hikers, cyclists and Airbnb renters visiting

the mountain. She sells an average of 70 sandwiches a day and 100 whole loaves of sourdough bread a weekend – a three-day weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

She does all the baking from scratch herself, with a little help from her pastry chef friend every other week. Although she’s open only three days a week, she works at the small 600-foot bakery on days it’s closed for business.

Susie, who lives in Sandy, has worked as a chef in the restaurant business for years. She and her wife and co-owner Jessie Hawkins ran the

Redwood Restaurant in Portland for 10 years before they invested in the bakery.

“We’ve been really lucky and appreciate this community that we found up there,” Susie said. “It’s really cool and friendly, lots of artists and stuff like that, just a really great community we didn’t realize was up there. They’ve kept us going and we appreciate that.”

A customer posted good things about Mt. Hood Baking Company on Yelp:

“Came in for a quick bite before the Hoodland Farmers Market. Got a BLT that came on their in-house sourdough bread. So fluffy, so tasty. We went back in for a loaf. I'll definitely make time to stop by whenever I'm in the area.”

A singer-songwriter who plays guitar and piano, Susie grew up in Mexico City and spent time in New York and Los Angeles pursuing a career in music.

“I’m a musician,” Susie said. “I never made any money playing music so I was always working restaurant jobs.”

Mt. Hood Baking Company is located at 24525 E. Welches Road in Welches. Hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Find more information on the web at mthoodbakingcompany.com, or phone 503-322-6623.

Fire Focus Firefighter Grows Roots on Mt. Hood

By Ty Walker

The Mountain Times

Tom Gall may have grown up in Ohio but he didn’t start growing family roots until he moved to rural Lolo Pass, near the community of Zigzag, in 1986. It was a pivotal year in Gall’s life.

With a biology degree from Kent State University and certification as a paramedic, he came to the Mount Hood area to accept a job with the National Forest Service. He also took a part-time paramedic position at Alpine Ambulance Co. in Sandy.

In the summer of that year, he started training to become a volunteer firefighter in the Hoodland Fire District, which would lead to a lifelong career

as a fulltime firefighter paramedic. He was happy to find that the Hoodland Fire District was equipped with an advanced life support (ALS) team, which makes a big difference in rural districts that are typically far away from doctors and hospitals.

In 1988, he applied for and was hired at Gresham Fire Department, where he worked for almost 28 years before retiring in 2016. During his entire career in Gresham and to this day, he has continued to volunteer at Hoodland –a job spanning 38 years.

“I had a career in Gresham, became a company officer, married, raised a family, bought a house, had a mortgage, had

a light in the darkness... Become a TIP Volunteer

TIP Volunteers are specially trained citizens requested through the emergency response system to provide immediate, practical and emotion support to citizens on the worst day of their lives.

a minivan, the whole deal,” Gall said. “You get busy having a family and having a job.”

He and his wife raised their three daughters in Zigzag. Two are now married and one is in grad school.

“I love being a dad and loved raising them on Mt. Hood,” Gall said. “Now I’m a grandpa and that’s the best job in the world.”

Gall, like many firefighters, also loves his job. He loves the action. He loves helping people out. He loves the camaraderie and teamwork. He loves saving lives.

“I’ve always liked having a job where the primary purpose is to help other people,” Gall said. “I get a lot of satisfaction out of it.”

Over the course of his career, Gall has helped countless people out in emergencies as a first-responder. He said there was one call that stood out early in his career.

A construction worker setting up scaffolding was electrocuted from touching a 12,000-volt electrical line. He was on the ground in cardiac arrest when Gall and his crew arrived at the scene.

“We did CPR and everybody knew their job,” Gall said. “One of us got an airway, another one did CPR and a third person got the heart monitor out and the drugs, and we managed to get his

TIP Volunteers are specially trained citizens requested through the emergency response system to provide immediate, practical and emotional support to citizens on the worst day of their lives. We want you to join our Hoodland TIP team! Learn more online at tipnw.org or call 503-823-3937 Be a light in the darkness... Become a TIP Volunteer.

We want you to join our Hoodland TIP team! Learn more online at tipnw.org or call 503-823-3937

SUPPORT GROUP FREE Monthly Peer Support Group

heart started again.

“He was 29 and had a wife and two little kids. I wasn’t much older than him and had three kids at the time, and I thought it was cool that he gets to see his kids.”

Now 63, Gall has to be ready to respond to emergencies at any moment as a volunteer. Early in July, he got called in at midnight to fill in for Hoodland staff who got called away to help fight the Larch Creek Fire near Tygh Valley in eastern Oregon. The fire prompted Gov. Tina Kotek to invoke the Emergency Conflagration Act to help fight the blaze, which had reached 7,000 acres.

“The Hoodland Fire District was ordered to bring a brush truck. I was called in to cover for staff,” Gall said. Gall also has served as a Portland Mountain Rescue leader since 2002, training search and rescue team volunteers and emergency medical responders. He has responded to calls from Mount Rainier to Mount Shasta, as well as Mount Hood.

Gall said Mount Hood is a beacon symbolizing home for his family. “We’re pretty lucky to have the best beacon. The best beacon that there is is Mount Hood for my family.”

SATURDAY, AUG. 10 10am–2pm 25222 East Welches Rd

Community lead activities · “Pop-Up” style, different each month · Find more details on our instagram page · 18+ Folks who reside in the villages of Mt. Hood

and processing difficulties that arise within

and our community in a safe, non-judgemental way. Our shared goal is to help shed some light upon the dark side of this mountain by creating a supportive community for healing. Facilitated by fellow community members: Erika Dixon LSC, M.Ed. & Kimberly Holland LCSW Instagram: @mountainmutualsupport mounthoodhealing@gmail.com

Meet Angela Brandenburg - Your County Sheriff

By Ty Walker

The Mountain Times

Clackamas County

Sheriff Angela Brandenburg is still glowing with gratitude almost two months after voters re-elected her as the county’s chief law enforcement officer in the May 21 primary. She received more than 53 percent of the vote in a three-way race to win a second term.

Getting such an overwhelming show of

support from the community, which Brandenburg has called home since she was a teenager, is a huge vote of confidence for the sheriff. Her strong commitment to maintaining public safety and accountability resonated with voters.

Four years ago, voters made her the first woman sheriff in Clackamas County history when they elected her in the 2020 primary. She is the 33rd sheriff to serve the county since William

Livingston Holmes first took up the post in 1845.

“I am so humbled by the support of our community in this election,” Brandenburg said. “Not only this election, but in 2020 when I won the primary election with over 50 percent, with three opponents, and in this one I had two opponents and received over 53 percent.

“It tells me that voters like the job that I’m doing and have faith in the work that we’re all doing

to keep our community safe.”

Under Brandenburg’s watch, Clackamas County has become the safest county in the metro area according to data kept by the Oregon State Police Uniform Crime Reporting Unit. Of the five most populated counties in Oregon, Clackamas County had the lowest number of reported offenses per 1,000 persons in 2022 and 2023 (through November).

Using population data from the census and reported crimes on the OSP website, the sheriff calculated the Clackamas County crime rate to be 42.2 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023. The rate was 54.5 crimes per 1,000 people in 2022.

“I’m looking forward to continuing doing some really good work,” the sheriff said. “Every day is a job interview as a sheriff. As an elected official, I work for the people in this county. They’re my bosses.”

Brandenburg grew up in Paso Robles, Calif., before moving as a teenager to rural Clackamas County. She lives with

her husband and teenage son and daughter on acreage south of Molalla. All told she has been a county resident for 37 years.

After graduating from high school, she didn’t really know what she wanted to do, so she joined The U.S. Oregon Army National Guard, serving nine years before being honorably discharged as a sergeant.

She went back to school under the GI Bill and took courses in criminal justice at Clackamas Community College. During that time, she happened to go on a ride-along with a patrol deputy.

“I went on a ride-along and I was hooked,” Brandenburg said. “It showed me a way I could serve my community in some capacity to keep my community safe and have an enjoyable job profession, knowing I could make a difference.”

That moment she was hooked. She wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. It didn’t take long before Brandenburg began as a reserve deputy and was

hired in 1992 as a fulltime deputy at the age of 21. Now, after more than 33 years with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, she has reached the pinnacle of her career, as sheriff.

“I’ve devoted my life to Clackamas County and the sheriff’s office for 33 years,” Brandenburg said. “I’ve devoted my life to our community. To me, there’s no greater honor than serving as sheriff.

“I get to keep our community safe. I grew up here in Clackamas County and the sheriff’s office. I’ve raised my family here. Devoted my life here. It’s such an honor to serve as sheriff.” Brandenburg said being a sheriff, in essence, is like being the CEO of a corporation. She oversees a total staff of 590 employees and administers a $148 million budget.

Staying on top of staffing is a challenge. It takes a long time to shape a patrol deputy – about 18 months to recruit, hire and go through the training process.

The sheriff has sworn

Sheriff Angela Brandenburg touts public safety track record.

VIEW FROM THE MOUNTAIN

From the publisher’s desk

HELLO MOUNTAIN TIMERS,

Once upon a time, the residents near Mount Hood chose to maintain an American tradition by supporting their community newspaper and keeping it alive — not an easy task in the current world of smartphones and laptops. Delivered to their mailbox, readers had a tangible product filled with stories and information about their own “backyard” and only after reading, front to back, they also had handy material for wrapping fish, shipping fragile items, etc.

The newspaper provided news stories of upcoming events and activities in their own “neck of the woods.” The paper celebrated the unique way of life the Mountain residents enjoy and experience. It also reported on the stories of everyday citizens and local agencies doing remarkable things with remarkable people living remarkable and unremarkable lives — depending on who you ask. Business owners supported the traditional media by partnering with the paper to hand deliver their unique messages and offerings.

HELLO, COMMUNITY

Thanks for burning all the debris in the school ball field. I especially enjoyed the part where this afternoon I drove by and saw two unattended small burn piles, one smoldering and the other with active flames near the edge of the forest. I walked over and not a soul around. You could find a better place to burn, and those are supposed to be attended. I called 911 and Hoodland Fire responded to put it out. Fire prevention? Really? Please do not do any more “fire prevention” events here. I doubt

The residents, now informed, supported these fantastic local businesses by purchasing their goods and services, thus helping them survive and ensure the Mountain’s prosperity. It seemed like everyone — no matter their roles — benefited from the community newspaper. Everyday life on the Mountain was better for it. The residents were connected. And best of all, they lived happily ever after.

The story above might sound like a fairy tale to folks not near the Mountain, but in reality, it describes what we have set out to do here at The Mountain Times. We strive to provide the community with as much local content as we can accommodate in 40 pages. In addition, we partner with some amazing businesses that also believe in local print journalism. Without them, this paper would cease to exist. Thank you to each and every one of them.

I also would like to thank all of our regular story contributors, my staff of writers, designers, content managers, proofreaders, billing and administration for doing what it takes to publish the paper every month.

Most of all, I would like to thank you, the READER. As we find ourselves living in a digital world, it means the world to me that you insist on a printed newspaper. Like your phone, the paper is portable but definitely more satisfying to handle — as in turning the pages.

From everyone at The Mountain Times, we appreciate you helping to make us the mostread paper on the Mountain. We look forward to being able to serve you for years to come.

Sincerely,

Matthew Nelson

Your

Publisher,

The Mountain Times.

If you have an idea for a story, have a classified, transition or an event you would like to have published, or if you own a business and would like to advertise with us, please give us a call at 503-622-3289.

LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER

that it will happen, but somebody needs a big fine over that. Those should have been hosed down, soaked, and totally extinguished before anybody left. Kids play back there, people and pets walk through there. Great to leave an ignition source blazing away for somebody to just kick into the forest not 20 feet away and start a disaster. As far as I am concerned with that level of irresponsibility, lack of any common sense, and complete disregard for safety, lives, and property of the people that live up here, those that were responsible for operating and

supervising this event are not welcome here.

Joe

Korpela Welches

WITH GRATITUDE

Many thanks to friends, family, the Mtn community & beyond for the support this past year, I would not have been able to remain at home without my wood ‘fairy’ this past Winter, for the rides, mail delivery, wonderful foods dropped by, touch-ins from folks & help when I did not know I needed it! Charley has also

LETTERS POLICY

Letters to the Editor & Commentaries must be typed and include the sender’s name, town and phone number for verification purposes. Commentaries must not exceed 600 words. We reserve the right to edit for grammar, clarity and length. We have the right to refuse content we deem inappropriate for any reason, without consent.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO The Mountain Times, PO Box 1031, Welches, Oregon 97067 OR EMAIL TO matt@mountaintimesoregon.com.

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Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in the paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent office policy or position of the Mountain Times or its clients.

Copyright All material in The Mountain Times is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced or distributed in any form without written permission from the Publisher.

been fortunate in having hiking partners & their romps in the woods!

With great appreciation to all! Including the flora & fauna, our Mountain water flows & rain, bird song, our air & the smiles/ hugs shared. My family has lived on the Mountain since the early 1900’s, from stories shared, there was quite the community at that time..and it continues Thanks be to all, Jane Brightwood

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Matthew Nelson matt@mountaintimesoregon.com

CONTENT MANAGER

Kaity VanHoose

BILLING

Tara Weidman tara@activemediausa.com

STAFF WRITERS

Patti Jo Brooks, Donovan Darling, Amber Ford, Adrian Knowler, Lucas Holmgren, Robert Matsumura, Joe O’Leary, Ty Walker

AD DESIGN & LAYOUT

Morgan King morgan@activemediausa.com

AD SALES

Zac Wright zac@mountaintimesoregon.com

AMBASSADOR

Peggy Wallace

CIRCULATION MANAGER Tom Tarrants

CONTRIBUTORS

Bradford Bixby, Dr. Melanie Brown DC, Milt Fox, Robert Kelly DMD, Lloyd Musser, Gary Randall, Steve Wilent, Michelle M. Winner PO Box 1031, Welches, OR 97067 503.622.3289 www.mountaintimesoregon.com

The Mountain Times is an independent monthly newspaper serving Sandy, Brightwood, Wemme, Welches, Zigzag, Rhododendron, Wildwood, Government Camp and Boring. 8,500-plus copies printed and distributed monthly.

Printed at Eagle Web Press in Salem, Oregon.

The Mountain Times is an associate member of ONPA

Publisher Matt Nelson enjoying the July edition of The Mountain Times while leaning on his 1972 Ward LaFrance Fire Engine.

Inside Salem Opinion

Legislator’s Letter: An Update from Rep. Jeff Helfrich

As we move ever closer to the start of the 2025 long session, my fellow Republicans and I took time to reflect on where we fell short in the last biennium. From that, we agreed that it’s time for us to get back to basics on several issues that face our communities. While crime and disorder are challenges we must address now, it is equally important to safeguard against them becoming

problems in the future: we must take a critical look at our education system. With slipping standards, increased absenteeism, and a shrinking workforce, Oregon is not doing right by her students. During the pandemic, the legislature passed SB 744 (2021), which suspended the requirement that high school graduates demonstrate proficiency in essential

learning skills. The main driver was that standardized testing could not be provided while everyone was in lockdown. In a decision made back in October 2023, the Board of Education decided to extend that suspension through 2029. That means that for nearly a decade, Oregon’s graduating students will have had no metric for success. While championed as a move for

WHERE TO WRITE TO YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

PRESIDENT / Joseph Biden (D)

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave

Washington DC 20500

202.456.1111 (comments)

202.456.1414 (info/switchboard)

www.whitehouse.gov/contact

GOVERNOR / Tina Kotek (D)

State Capitol Building

900 Court Street NE, Ste 160 Salem, OR 97301

503.378.4582 (msg line)

503.378.6827 (fax)

http://governor.oregon.gov

U.S. SENATOR / Ron Wyden (D)

District: 0S1 - United States Senate

223 Dirksen Senate Off. Bldg Washington, DC 20510

202.224.5244 (tel)

202.228.2717 (fax)

http://wyden.senate.gov

Portland Office: 911 NE 11th Ave, #630 Portland, OR 97232

503.326.7525

U.S. SENATOR / Jeff Merkley (D)

District: 0S2 - United States Senate 313 Hart Senate Off. Bldg Washington, DC 20510

202.224.3753 (tel)

202.228.3997 (fax)

http://merkley.senate.gov

Portland Office: 121 SW Salmon #1400 Portland, OR 97204

503.326.3386 (tel)/503.326.2900(fax)

US REPRESENTATIVE

Earl Blumenauer (D) / District: 003

U.S. House of Representatives 1111 Longsworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515

202.225.4811 (tel)/202.225.8941 (fax) http://blumenauer.house.gov

equity, it leaves all of our students, including those from marginalized communities, at a disadvantage when competing for work, furthering the generational iniquities we see in those communities. Oregon may drop her standards for reading and writing, but employers nationwide will still require resumes and cover letters that our students won’t know how to write successfully.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Jeff Helfrich (R) District: 052

900 Court Street NE, H-473 Salem, OR 97301

503.986.1452 (tel) rep.JeffHelfrich @oregonlegislature.gov

STATE SENATOR

Daniel Bonham (R) / District: 026

900 Court Street NE, S-316 Salem, OR 97301

503.986.1726 (tel) Sen.DanielBonham @oregonlegislature.gov http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/ bonham

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Ellen Rosenblum

Oregon Dept of Justice 1162 Court Street NE Salem, OR 97301

503.378.4400 (tel) www.doj.state.or.us

The House Republican Caucus will advocate for the reinstitution of the graduation standards. If our youth are failing these basic standards, it’s not because the test is targeting them but because our education system has failed them.

Session after session, educators inform us they don’t have the tools to be successful. They are overburdened with too few teachers and too many students. We have poured billions of dollars into our public education system over the last few years yet have very little to show for it. Our teachers deserve better. They deserve to go home feeling fulfilled and accomplished for the important work they do. The funding of our public education system needs to stop being a political chip and start being a legislative priority. Funding of our K-12 system should happen early in the next

STATE TREASURER

Tobias Read (D)

350 Winter St. NE #100 Salem, OR 97301

503.378.4329 (tel) Oregon.Treasurer@state.or.us

SECRETARY OF STATE LaVonne Griffin-Valade 136 State Capitol Salem, OR 97310 503.986.1500 (tel) oregon.sos@state.or.us https://sos.oregon.gov

CLACKAMAS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Commissioner Tootie Smith (Chair) Commissioners: Ben West

Paul Savas

Martha Schrader

Mark Shull (e-mail: bcc@co.clackmas.or.us) 2051 Kaen Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045

503.655.8581 (tel) 503.742.5919 (fax)

session, so that teachers have the peace of mind that they are being heard and prioritized.

We must ensure that our students are graduating with the tools to help them compete in today’s job market and provide them the resources to excel in the classroom. Our teachers who have gone into this noble line of work shouldn’t be made to feel like they are being hamstrung by a system that does not prioritize their success and instead overcrowds their classrooms. It’s time the legislature puts its money where its mouth is, and to fully fund our public education system. It may mean difficult decisions for other areas of government assistance, but our future and our kids deserve it. As always, you can reach me at Rep.JeffHelfrich@oregonlegislature. gov or 503-986-1452.

COUNTY SHERIFF

Angela Brandenburg

2223 Kaen Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045

Emergency No. 9-1-1 Non-Emergency to Report a Crime 503.655-8211

503.655.8549 (fax)

CITY OF SANDY

City Manager, Jordan Wheeler

Mayor Stan P. Pulliam

Councilors:

Chris Mayton

Laurie J. Smallwood (President)

Richard Sheldon

Kathleen Walker

Carl Exner

Don Hokanson

39250 Pioneer Blvd., Sandy, OR 97055

503.668.5533 (tel) ci.sandy.or.us

Mountain Representative Jeff Helfrich keeps the community updated with an exclusive look at the legislative process.

Hoodland Medics Save Driver’s Life

By Ty Walker

The Mountain Times

It was the middle of the day, 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5. Laura Nelson was driving from Portland to Madras to work for a few days in her job as an educational consultant. She was driving 45 mph because she said. “I’m a stickler for speed limits.”

All of a sudden, as she was driving through Welches on U.S. Highway 26, her heart began racing and she started to feel dizzy. Then everything went dark and she blacked out.

“I pass out while driving and I come to not too much later from what I can tell,” Nelson said. “I had changed lanes but hadn’t crossed the center line, thank God. I kind of woke up and for a second didn’t know

in 30 new deputies so far this year. Last year, she swore in 52 deputies (67 total staff). The office is “getting down in our positions but we’re over 90 percent hired up,” she said.

With another 33 patrol deputies currently in training, more patrol cars are expected on the streets in the next few months, especially in rural areas like Mount

“With the public safety levy, we added patrol positions,” the sheriff said. People are going to see, here in the next three, four to six months,

point, had a drink of water and wondered if she should continue driving to her job in Madras. So she called her husband, told him about the incident and asked what he thought she should do.

“My husband said, ‘Why don’t you go into the fire department and ask those guys if you should keep driving or not,’” she said.

That sounded like a good idea. After all, who would know better than a station full of certified paramedics and emergency medical technicians?

multiple arrhythmias,” Nelson said. There would be no more driving to Madras for her today.

So instead of consulting with educators in Jefferson County School District, Nelson spent the next six days in the hospital, where she received a defibrillator implant that she must live with for the rest of her life. She is scheduled for surgery in September to fix arrhythmias that cause her irregular heartbeats.

who I was, what I was, what a car was, what a road was. I was just completely disoriented.”

Little by little, she regained her senses and she pulled over to the right-hand lane and looked for the first parking lot she could find. Whatever dizzy spell she felt had passed and she was feeling better now, she thought.

Fortunately, it just so happened that Nelson found herself in the parking lot of Welches’ very own fire district headquarters. She didn’t realize where she had parked until she looked up and saw the sign.

“Of all the places for me to pull over, I look up and see the fire station sign for Hoodland Fire District #74,” she said laughing.

She felt fine at this

“So I go into the fire station,” she said. “I rang the little service bell and a couple of guys come out. I tell them that a crazy thing just happened. I just passed out in my car and woke up in my car.”

Within a minute, more Hoodland first-responders joined in the effort, taking her into the training room and hooking her up to an EKG. They told her she had suffered a ventricular tachycardia blackout and called for an ambulance to transport her to Kaiser Sunnyside Hospital in Portland.

Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that occurs when the lower chambers of the heart beat too fast. This can prevent the heart from pumping properly, which can lead to the body not receiving enough oxygenated blood.

“My heart was all over the place, skipping beats and showing

Nelson said she is grateful to the Hoodland staff for saving her life. She sent the fire district a thank you card a few weeks after recovering from the frightening heart episode.

“They were so amazing, they were funny, they were kind, that day could have been so much scarier,” she said. “I cannot begin to explain how grateful I am for how seriously they took me when I walked in, and how seriously they took the situation when they realized what was going on with my heart.

“It turns out they saved my life. If I had kept driving, who knows if it would’ve happened again? This could have gone on for years with me not knowing what a serious problem I had.”

For Nelson, who is 51, this was the first time she has had any serious heart trouble. And the medics at Hoodland Station were there to see her through it.

these deputies that are going to be out patrolling the roadways, up on the mountain especially. In our rural areas, we will see increased deputy presence.”

The public safety levy has received attention recently as the sheriff and the county commission were embroiled in a county budget dispute she characterized as a fundamental disagreement over how tax dollars are spent.

The sheriff has challenged the county’s use of diverting Public Safety Levy dollars to pay for the funding short-

fall created by the $313 million county courthouse building project. She argues that the levy money was approved by voters to keep them safer, not finance a courthouse.

Running the Clackamas County Jail is one of the sheriff’s main jobs. Built in 1959, the aging jail is suffering from rising costs and a rising budget. It hasn’t met bedding needs since 2000 and needs to be replaced, Brandenburg said.

The sheriff’s office also takes accountability seriously. In order to ensure the public’s trust, she said all complaints are investigated thoroughly.

“We are holding ourselves accountable, “ she said. “We hold ourselves to a high standard of professionalism.”

The sheriff’s website, https://www.clackamas. us/sheriff, has expanded to offer more information online. More crime data are available, with calls for service broken down by neighborhoods and uploaded to the site monthly.

She said her No. 1 priority is to keep Clackamas County safe, proudly reiterating its track record as the safest county in the metro area for the past two years. Besides Clackamas County, the metro area includes Multnomah, Washington, Lane and Marion counties.

Laura Nelson recovering at home the week after her unexpected visit at the hospital.

Community Comes Together to Reduce Wildfire Risks at Debris Collection Event

By Adrian Knowler

In a proactive effort to mitigate wildfire risks, the Mt. Hood Corridor Wildfire Partnership hosted a successful community event at Welches School on June 29th. The initiative attracted 60 unique visitors who collectively contributed 69 loads of plant material, amount-

ing to an impressive 168 yards of debris, according to event organizer Brentwood Reid.

that enriches soil and improves water retention, making it a valuable resource for local gardens and landscapes. Biochar helps enhance soil fertility and supports healthier plant growth, contributing to more resilient ecosystems.

wildfire. “I would have found a place to let it dry, and it would have become fuel. It’s so expensive to get rid of it,” he said.

Justin Steele of Rhododendron learned about the event through the social media platform Nextdoor, where it was publicized by the Hoodland CPO and local residents. He participated by picking up debris for elderly neighbors and dropping off several trailer loads. “This is awesome,” he said. “It’d be nice to have this more often during fire season.”

The event aimed to remove flammable plant material from local properties, a crucial step in creating defensible space around homes. The collected debris was burned the following day in a curtain burner, provided and operated by Ryan Ramage of Valley Environmental. According to Reid, this specialized device can process up to 6 tons of material per day while emitting very little smoke, minimizing air pollution and reducing the risk of uncontrolled fires compared with a traditional pile burn.

SALMON RIVER TRAIL

From Page 1

give back to Oregon’s extensive trail system.

Founded in 2007 by Mt Hood area volunteers who initially maintained trails independently, TKO has grown into a pivotal organization focusing on trail maintenance, education and community engagement.

TKO works closely with the Forest Service to ensure trails in Mt. Hood National Forest are clear and safe for hikers and backpackers.

Many of the group are hikers and backpackers themselves, and volunteer as a way to give back and ensure continued access to Oregon’s great outdoors. For others, it’s their primary way to get out and enjoy the trail

system, all while socializing and staying active with some hard work that McKee calls “type two fun,” slang for an activity that’s challenging and uncomfortable while it’s happening, but feels rewarding afterwards.

McKee works as a massage therapist out of her home four days a week, and leads volunteer crews for TKO on another two days. On Sundays, she often cleans trash out of the Columbia Slough with her husband Paul.

The group recently spent three days and nights camping in the Salmon River Wilderness in an effort to get closer to their goal of

Additionally, burning in a curtain burner can produce biochar, a stable form of carbon

fully clearing the trail.

McKee decided to camp several miles into the wilderness area to save the trips out and back with heavy equipment.

“I have a mental list of things I want to do,” she said. “I was getting frustrated with how little we were getting done so we spent three nights out here, but we’re still coming.”

As the group hiked in, backpackers and hikers passed and thanked the volunteers for their work.

Assistant crew leader Karen Campbell got involved when she joined her husband, who is a long distance trail runner, on a maintenance event. He was required to participate as part of his registration in a race, but Karen ended up getting hooked, and now volunteers weekly.

Volunteer Denis Kervella ran into a TKO group last spring while hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, and was immediately intrigued.

“It was an easy sell,” Kervella said. “I always loved the outdoors and I retired last summer, and I ran into the crew

The entire event was funded by a grant from the Office of the Oregon Fire Marshall, which supports the wildfire partnership’s initiatives. Recently, the partnership also organized a well-attended workshop on wildfire safety and mitigation techniques. Reid expressed his satisfaction with the turnout at both the workshop and the debris collection event, highlighting the community’s engagement in wildfire prevention.

Bryan Strothmann of Brightwood was happy to hear about the event, and emphasized the financial burden of bringing it to the dump in Sandy. He said that without the free event, the material might have stayed on his property, potentially providing fuel to a future

that was really friendly and it seemed like they were having a lot of fun. I go backpacking and appreciate trails that are well maintained. I just felt very comfortable talking with them. Three days later I signed up for my first volunteer trail party, and now I try to go once or twice a week,” he said.

TKO’s mission includes educating volunteers on chainsaw and crosscut technique and other skills required for safe and effective trail work, according to Vito Perrone, the organization’s stewardship manager and SAW program coordinator.

He said that the Forest Service only has about a half dozen staff dedicated to trail work, so most of the work is done by volunteers.

He described TKO as a “training hub” for other volunteer groups, including those for mountain bikers and trail runners who want to provide trail upkeep. Forest Service rules require volunteers wielding saws to be properly certified, a need that experienced sawyer Perrone and TKO are happy to meet.

Perrone said that

Hoodland CPO treasurer Pat Erdenberger informed residents about the event and expressed her satisfaction with the turnout. She stressed that events like the debris collection foster a safer and more connected community, especially for neighbors who are not members of a Firewise certified homeowners association.

“We need people to start coming together and doing proactive things,” she said. “I would hope we can

develop this further.” Event organizer Brentwood Reid described the initiative as a “community effort” driven by local HOAs and CPOs, underscoring the collaborative spirit that fueled the successful turnout. Wildfires have become an increasing concern in the region, particularly as climate change exacerbates dry conditions and extends fire seasons. Experts say that proper vegetation management is a critical component of wildfire mitigation strategies, with local fire authorities encouraging homeowners to regularly assess and manage their landscapes, reducing the potential for fire to spread.

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged in wildfire prevention efforts and to participate in future events organized by the Mt. Hood Corridor Wildfire Partnership. For more information on wildfire mitigation practices, visit https://www.mthoodwildfirepartnership.org/.

the group formed in 2007 when a number of volunteers got together to maintain the Vista Ridge Trail because it was being overgrown and lost to debris. Soon after, the group organized and started coordinating with the Forest Service. Since then, they have expanded to maintain trails all over Oregon, with many in the Mount Hood area. Perrone hopes others will join them in the work, and said that no experience is required. Projects vary from location to location, with some being friendly for children and families, like parks in Sandy and Troutdale.

After five trail events, volunteers earn their own green helmet with

their name on the front. At the July 18 event, the crew of nearly a dozen were made up of all returning volunteers.

McKee says it’s the relationships formed during hours on the trail that bring volunteers back week after week. McKee even packs out specific snacks for her crew, and knows their tastes and dietary needs. She jokes that bribing her crew with chocolate keeps them hooked.

“I have a real affection for the people on my crew,” McKee said. “If I don’t see someone for a while I’ll send them a text to check in because I really care about them. We just have fun, we joke and laugh and we get to know each other really well.”

The Mountain Times

Local News

Timberline Daydream Event to be Held September 1

By Oliver Stoller Smith

For The Mountain Times

In a busy world filled with work and responsibility, you may find yourself longing for a refreshing distraction. Timberline Lodge and OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital have come together to provide just that — the opportunity to enjoy an event full of musical reverie — at Timberline Daydream. Historic Timberline Lodge hosts and produces Timberline Daydream, inviting folks to cele -

brate the end of summer on Sunday, Sept 1st. The annual music festival is FREE with a suggested donation of $10 - $20 per person. All proceeds from sponsorships, the silent auction, and the encouraged donations go directly to Doernbecher. Last year, Timberline Daydream raised nearly $200,000.

Speaking of last year’s Daydream, Dr. Dana Braner, Doernbecher’s Physician-in-Chief, said, “I smile when I think of that incredibly inspiring

day on Mt. Hood where over 4,000 people came together to celebrate music, joy, and Doernbecher. It’s amazing to see what happens when our community joins together.”

Kicking off Timberline Daydream bright and early is an Enduro Bike Race presented by Gresham Subaru and produced by Race Cascadia. Registration is online, open to folks of all ages, and costs $130 per person. Racers in various age and gender

categories with the fastest times will receive a cash prize. On top of that, racers are also encouraged to have fun by wearing costumes — hit costumes from last year included some racers dressed in ironically formal attire and one as the iconic and patriotic Uncle Sam.

Continue the fun at the amphitheater, just a short walk from the lodge. Music starts at noon and lasts until about 5pm, rain or shine. This year’s line-up features interactive and dynamic bands that get the crowd involved. Tony Smiley, aka “the Loop Ninja,” whose one-man set was a fan-favorite last year, is back with his energetic and engaging mash-ups. The Builders and the Butchers brand of folk-rock is best served live, encouraging the crowd to sing-along. The Red Light Romeos and Hit Machine round out the lively music festival — respectively covering hits from the 60s to the 70s and contemporary hits from the 70s onward. All four of these bands are local, originating in

the Pacific Northwest.

The silent auction will be held on the back patio of the lodge where bidders can win items like custom-branded Daydream ON3P skis, an overnight vineyard stay at Stoller Family Estate, a Hood River Distillers tasting package and more. 100% of the money spent at the silent auction goes to Doernbecher.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase on the back patio, and Timberline’s other restaurants will also be open during Daydream.

Timberline Daydream is the ultimate event of the summer on Mt. Hood. The best part of the time spent at Timberline Daydream is that all proceeds go to a good and fulfilling cause.

A Level One trauma center and home of the largest pediatric intensive care unit in Oregon, OHSU Doernbecher

Children’s Hospital has provided hope and healing to children and families in the Pacific Northwest for nearly 100 years.

“Doernbecher does not turn any child away. However, they could not be so accessible without community support,” Timberline’s Marketing Director John Burton said. “That’s why this event is so important. Timberline Daydream is an opportunity for folks to support an incredible cause and have a great time while doing so!”

Timberline Daydream is presented by Columbia and Sorel. The bike race is presented by Gresham Subaru. Sponsoring at the diamond level is Bremik Construction. Sponsoring at the gold level are the Graybeal and Fisher Families. Silver sponsors include Carson, Moss Adams, Pacific Seafood, and Philips & Company. Bronze sponsors include Becker Capital, Oregon Screen Impressions, and Skylab Architecture. For more information about Timberline Daydream, visit www. timberlinelodge.com.

Welches Road Project Construction Set for Spring 2027

By Ty Walker The Mountain Times

The posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour along Welches Road off US Highway 26. But if you’ve walked that stretch of road between the highway and Birdie Lane, you know that too many drivers speed past, ignoring the posted signs.

There are no sidewalks or shoulders on this two-lane road, forcing pedestrians and bicyclists to share the roadway with vehicles. They don’t feel safe. Drivers have come to complete stops as families with small children make their way down the busy, narrow road. Some would say it’s like a tragedy waiting to happen.

Welches Road safety concerns are nothing new to the neighborhood. In 2016, the Welches community got involved and helped Clackamas County develop The Villages

at Mt. Hood Pedestrian and Bikeway Implementation Plan, prioritizing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements.

The Welches Road Bike/Ped Improvements Project was identified as a high priority project within the master plan. Based on further public meetings and an online survey, citizens have made one thing clear: they are calling for an eight-foot-wide dedicated pathway separate from and located along one side of the road, according to Clackamas County Project Manager Mike Ward.

“People tend to go at a pretty quick pace driving down Welches,” Ward said. “By creating a little bit of separation, this path hopefully will make pedestrians feel safer being removed from so many speeding vehicles.”

Cost for the project is estimated at $3.4 million, with funding provided by community

road funds and system development charges.

The next step is to hire an engineering consulting firm to design the path.

Requests For Proposals are expected to be released in a few weeks, Ward said.

“Once we get the design firm on board, they will take a crack at what we’ve heard from the community and come up with a rough sketch,” Ward said. “We’ll ID where the path will go, which side of the road.”

For the northern half of the Welches Road Project, building the path on the west side of the road makes more sense than the east, Ward said. The west side has less conflicts with trees and geography and has sufficient right of way.

The project timeline has been updated as follows: A design consultant firm is expected to be named in November; alignment options presented in April; 30 percent of project design completed by June; and construction scheduled for spring 2027. There’s still time to have your voice heard by the Welches Road Project decision makers.

“We appreciate the community’s engagement and that they care about this because that makes projects more meaningful to build, knowing they will hopefully enjoy them.” Ward said.

For updates on the project, see www.clackamas.us/engineering/ welches-road. You can sign up to put your name on an email list to receive updates.

More public input will be sought as designers move forward with the project. “About the only thing 100 percent certain is the path will be 8 feet wide,” Ward said. “Nothing else is nailed down.”

Tell Jan you saw this in the paper!

Mountain Matters: Govy Cleanup

By Amber Ford The Mountain Times

As the snowpacks and snow mounds receded with the summer temperatures and sunshine, Mt. Hood National Forest’s resident wildflowers and plants began to bloom and grow. Along with the beauty of sunshine, flowers and warm weather, the melting snow also gave way to the garbage left behind

CAMP FIRE

From Page 1

The cause of the fire has not been determined at this time. There were no injuries.

The approximately 2,000-square-foot Maintenance Shop, still vital to the Arrah Wanna’s operation, was a complete loss.

The initial estimate of cost for fire damages is around $500,000, according to Camp Arrah Wanna Executive Director Laura Young. Although the insurance policy will most likely cover these losses, the camp will need to raise at least $25,000 for the deductible -- possibly more depending on additional unforeseen costs.

An older wooden structure, the shop contained tractors, batteries and combustible building materials such as stacks of plywood and sheetrock, Hoodland Fire District

Chief Jim Price said.

The fire may have burned a few hours before it was reported, based on Fire Chief Price’s observations. He gave this account of the fire:

“The maintenance shop manager said he smelled smoke about 9:15 p.m. (Saturday), but he thought it was just a whiff. Somebody was just having a campfire when they weren’t supposed to. The next thing, he woke up at 1 a.m. (Sunday) and it was already fully involved.

“Sometime between 9:30 p.m., when he was going to bed, and 1:15 a.m., when we got dispatched, it was burning, most likely. How long when it really took off? When we arrived at 1:20 a.m., it was fully involved.”

Hoodland firefighters had the fire knocked down about 2:30 a.m.

from last year’s snow season. Evidence of the heavy traffic between the Mt. Hood Villages and Government Camp was found in fast food wrappers, plastic sleds and tire chains.

It is nearly impossible to prevent such litter. Friends of the Govy 500 have, however, been making a yearly event of organizing cleanups once snow has melted in Government Camp. On Sunday, June 23rd, the Govy 500 founder (who prefers to remain anonymous) and other community members met in Government Camp for their fourth annual Govy 500 cleanup. Starting in Government Camp and continuing up to the Summit ski area, nearly thirty individuals participated in the effort.

Understanding the impact trash can have – and the importance of its removal – in the Mt. Hood Villages for

but remained at the scene all night, working on hot spots and pockets of fire. It’s fire season in the Mount Hood area, which means it’s on extreme fire danger alert.

In all, Hoodland Fire District responded with a fire engine, water tender, brush fire truck, and seven firefighters, including Fire Chief Price. Clackamas County joined the effort by sending 10 firefighters, a battalion chief and three engine trucks.

Young is still reeling from that devastating night, scrambling to serve summer campers without use of most of the maintenance equipment.

“We are heartened by the outpouring of well-wishes and offers of assistance from our supporters, community members, and even strangers,” Young said. “While this tragedy feels like another setback in our 2024 journey of

community members, wildlife and plants, the Govy 500 founder has been working with other local businesses and organizations in order to keep local communities as free from trash as possible. “Surfrider and Snowrider used to do mountain cleanups, but the Snowrider organization went under and no one was leading any cleanups around the mountain anymore,” the Govy 500 founder said.

“Being an avid skier and snowboarder you can’t help but notice all the trash when the snow melts. Solve Oregon makes it extremely easy to set up your own cleanups and will supply you with all the trash grabbers, trash bags and gloves you need to run your own cleanups,” the Govy 500 founder added. Picking up everything from food wrappers, cigarette butts and tire chains, volun -

service and our broader recovery from pandemic-related shutdowns, we are grateful that no one was injured. The Hoodland Fire Department’s efficient containment efforts prevented what could have been a catastrophic event.”

Despite the loss of this integral facility, Camp Arrah Wanna remains open for business, committed to providing services and programs while it recovers and rebuilds.

“We love our community and eagerly anticipate many more years of service together,” Young said.

A list of needed maintenance items will be posted on the Camp Arrah Wanna website soon on the donation page at https://camparrahwanna.org/giving. html. In-kind and financial donations to support recovery efforts are welcome and tax-deductible.

teers work relentlessly once the snow melts. “We usually find car parts, chains, fast food garbage, cigarette butts, ZYN pouches (they don’t biodegrade) food packaging, drug paraphernalia, dog waste still in the bag and ski gloves,” the Govy 500 founder said.

After Govy 500 divides and assigns specific sections to volunteers to clean up and bag the trash, Timberline Lodge gives an assist in removing the trash to the transfer station in their trucks.

Weather can impact the number of volunteers the cleanup sees each year, but on average 10-30 community members donate their time and energy to the cause.

While local communities between The Mt. Hood Villages and Government Camp do their part to protect the natural environment and landscape that many call home, the cleanup orga-

nized by the Govy 500 further sets a positive tone both for the importance of litter awareness and bringing neighbors together. “This is a great event to see your mountain family one more time before summer starts,” The Govy 500 founder said. “Trash is everywhere on the Mountain. We can all do our part to help keep our town and mountain clean. With the influx of people recreating on the mountain, trash comes with it. Let’s keep our mountain clean so we can enjoy it in all its glory,” the Govy 500 founder added.

A similar event will be held on the Salmon River on Saturday, September 7th, at 9am. Volunteers are encouraged to meet at the Old Salmon River trailhead and can visit volunteer.solveoregon. org for more information.

Carnival or Rodeo, Have the Ride of Your Life at the Clackamas County Fair & Rodeo!

By Patti Jo Brooks

For The Mountain Times

It’s summertime in Canby and the Clackamas County Fair & Rodeo is in full swing August 13-17 at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds. Experience the sights, sounds and aromas of the County Fair as you stroll about. Visit livestock exhibits and agricultural displays where farmers and youth proudly showcase the results of their diligent work over the course of the year. Peruse hobby displays and art exhibits and treat yourself to fun-filled carnival rides.

Embrace the thrill and excitement of live rodeo, pitting human skill against animal instinct, and enjoy crowd-pleasing performances by your favorite musicians and entertainers.

Everyone loves a parade! So pick a spot, settle in and enjoy the Canby Kiwanis Kiddie Capers Parade, a fun and festive Canby Kiwanis tradition since 1948. A kick off to the Clackamas County Fair, the Kiddie Capers Parade begins at Knight

School at 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 13 and ends at the fairgrounds. Kids from all across Clackamas County will be “Moovin’ N Groovin’ at the Clackamas County Fair and Canby Rodeo,” in costume and riding, walking, pulling or pushing their bikes, wagons, dogs and more. Join the lively bustle of fairgoers partaking in everything a county fair has to offer. Grab a bite of your favorite festival food served up from any one of 20 different food booths. Visit the Main Pavilion and check out the vendors inside then head upstairs and once again find the creative exhibits of the Hobby Hall, Photography, Quilts and Textiles. If it’s the Art Gallery you’re looking for, make your way to Clackamas Hall where you’ll find a multitude of compositions in oils, acrylics, water colors, pastels, drawings, sculptures and more!

The Fair runs daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, August 13-17 with world-class rodeo competition happening each night in the Canby

Rodeo Arena starting at 7:30 p.m. If you’ve never seen the Canby Rodeo, let this be the year you do! The Main Stage this year has been moved to the center of the fairgrounds on the main lawn. Music starts at 9 p.m. (while the rodeo is finishing up), giving more fairgoers a chance to enjoy the night’s entertainment. Please check the Fair’s website for the complete entertainment schedule.

“What makes our county fair special?” asks Brian Crow, Clackamas County Fairgrounds and Event Center Executive Director. “When I think about it, I see the bright lights of the midway, flashing and tracing patterns in the night sky. I see 4H and FFA kids grooming the animals they’ve worked so hard to raise and the community’s handiwork on display for everyone to enjoy. I hear the sounds of kids laughing and screaming on the rides, cows mooing, pigs squealing, bleating lambs and goats, and whatever noise cavies make. Music fills the air from the stage, alongside the

auctioneer and rodeo announcer. Friends are telling stories and joking around. I close my eyes and smell cotton candy, corn dogs, barbecue, elephant ears and even the livestock. No matter what your fair memories are, the fact that you can relate to something I mentioned shows how important the county fair is. It strengthens families and friendships, bridges the gap between urban and agricultural communities, and is the foundation for generational memories.”

This year’s fair, presented by NW Employment Solutions, features a unique theme each day with special discounts or free admission to select groups. August 13 is Family Day and kids 12 and under get in FREE with participation in the

Kiddie Caper Parade. August 14, Senior Citizen Day, offers reduced entry fees for seniors age 65-74 and FREE admission for those 75 and up. August 15 is First Responder Day – police, fire and paramedics are admitted FREE with corresponding ID. Military Appreciation Day, August 16, all veterans and Armed Service members in uniform or showing service ID are admitted

FREE. August 17, the Fair closes with Agriculture Day: the Junior Livestock Auction, Miss Rodeo Oregon Coronation and the VIP Press Party are featured. The Clackamas County Fairgrounds is located at 694 N.E. 4th Ave. in Canby. For exhibitor information, tickets, food vendors and more visit clackamascountyfair.com.

Meet the Artist: Jessica Thomason

By Amber Ford

The Mountain Times

When many people think of local artists, our many great painters, photographers and crafters come to mind. Local hair stylist Jessica Thomason of New Moon Salon thrives on the creativity that is her livelihood. From her initial studies at Mt. Hood

Community College, Thomason has a variety of beauty licenses under her belt, including nails and facials, but works strictly on hair at her salon in Welches. Having worked at several salons in Portland, Thomason brought her talent and skill to the mountain in 2018 when she opened New Moon Salon in

the Rendezvous Plaza. Crediting her clients for her overall passion when it comes to being a stylist, Thomason acknowledges how each client request shaped her business into the success it is today. “I love that I get paid to hang out with friends and be creative,” Thomason said. “I have meaningful relationships with my clients. We have real conversations, and I’m very grateful that they trust me with their hair. Not many people actually get paid to create art all day, and I’m glad I found a way to do that,” Thomason added.

As a top tier stylist in both Portland – and now Welches – Thomason has had a variety of experiences with clients over the years who inspired her and sharpened her skills, providing challenges with each cut and color. Creativity is at the forefront of her profession, but the connections and relationships she establishes with her clients are just as important. “Working with middle school and high

school age kids is really rewarding for me, especially kids who identify as part of the queer community,” Thomason said. “They know I’m a safe space, and their parents also trust me as a person they can talk to. I remember being in middle school, and I’m pretty sure no one would disagree that it’s a time where you really ridicule yourself for how you look. We are so critical at that age. When I see a young person looking at themselves in the mirror with a real smile on their faces, it brings me so much joy. Honestly, anytime I can help someone’s outsides reflect how they feel on the inside, that is when I feel I’ve really made a difference for someone,” Thomason added.

Although her city stylist days may be behind her, Thomason has found that when it comes to her location, clients and their respective requests are similar no matter where she creates. “I’ve found that the mountain and my clientele don’t differ much from my years in downtown Portland,”

Thomason said. “It’s a lovely variety of ages and stages, styles that vary from subdued to wild. My favorite thing is to figure out how to get as close to someone’s vision as possible, and problem solving my way to the result,” Thomason added.

While Thomason specializes in a variety of different unique and transformative stylist techniques from a basic cut to extreme

color changes, she finds herself fascinated and continuously sharpening her vibrant color craft.. “I love doing rainbow hair color,” Thomason said. “While I do a good amount of vivid color work, the majority of my cuts and colors do not look quite so punk rock. The difference between being up here versus the city is that I see my clients everywhere!” Thomason added.

Mt. Hood Lions Club Event A Classic Success

By Ty Walker

Lions’ breakfast menu.

Nearly 500 people showed up for break

Breakfast & Car Show the first weekend of July. The large crowds turned out for the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year despite the extreme heat.

“It went well,” new Lions President and six-year member David Anderson said. “Along with the breakfast, for the first time, we had 39 classic cars displayed. Mostly locals but people came up from Portland.”

This marked the first community pancake feed since its inception in 1958 to have a car show included on the menu. Diners had the

opportunity to peruse old Packards, Chevys and Fords parked on the clubhouse lot in Welches while enjoying hotcakes, eggs and sausages. A prize for best in show was awarded, Anderson said About 35 Lions volunteers, along with Boy Scout troops from Sandy lent a hand to raise money for the club’s general fund. The Lions Club is a service organization that supports local community projects and programs, such as swimming lessons for youth. Other programs include Reading Is

Fundamental (RIF) for elementary schoolchildren, sight and hearing programs, and Christmas food and toy drives.

Mt. Hood Lions Club is the largest in the state with 119 members in all. The club has served the community for 73 years, since 1951.

The next event on the Lions Club calendar is the Burrito Drive-Through during the Hood To Coast relay race, which is set for 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23. The Lions also hold an annual golf tournament to raise money for disas -

ter relief Sept 6-7 at the Oregon Resort at the Mountain. Cost is $100 per person for the shotgun start scramble format tournament. Long-term plans are under way to turn clubhouse grounds into a demonstration garden and to teach orchard gardening and cooking classes.

The Mt. Hood Lions Club is located at 24730 E Woodsey Way, Welches.

For more information, phone 503-6224111 or go online to mthoodlions.org.

The Mountain Times

For The Mountain Times

Hot cakes and cars:

the new classic on the

fast at the Mt. Hood Lions Club Chuckwagon

Jessica Thomason, owner of New Moon Salon.

Photo by Cari Gesch.

By Steve Wilent For The Mountain Times

Two years ago this month I wrote about the State of Oregon’s wildfire risk map and draft regulations requiring property owners to take steps to reduce the risk to their homes and businesses, possibly including penalties for not complying. The draft rules would have required, among other things, 10 feet of space between the crowns of all trees and nearby structures — which in many parts of our area could only be accomplished by cutting down many large, mature trees. After a widespread public outcry, the state withdrew the map and set about revising it and the accompanying regulations.

This summer the state began holding public meetings to introduce the new map, which as of this writing was not yet widely available. Among other changes, the state is calling it a hazard map rather than a risk map. I’ll likely write about the new map and regulations in the near future.

In the meantime, the hot weather and wildfires around the state remind us that there is no time

The Woodsman: AntFarm Crews Help Homeowners Reduce Wildfire Fire Risk

like the present to begin preparing our homes for the eventual, inevitable wildfire.

You can do no better than to enlist the help of AntFarm Youth Services, a Sandy-based nonprofit, which, in addition to a variety of services, has a Community Wildfire Defense Program specific to our area. Concerned about your wildfire risk? Sign up for a free assessment and, if need be, free fuel reduction on your property. That’s right — free.

I recently observed, at the invitation of Logan Hancock, AntFarm’s Community Wildfire Defense Program Manager, an AntFarm crew doing just that (fuel reduction) on a Rhododendron property.

Instead of trying to create 10 feet of open space between trees and between tree branches and homes, the AntFarm crews are thinking smaller, but smarter.

On this approximately two-acre lot, Hancock and a handful of crewmembers were working to remove small trees and shrubs within 100 feet of the house —

“ladder fuels” that, once ignited, could let a small ground fire spread into the tree crowns and become far more destructive. The property owner had already removed some shrubs and other vegetation; Hancock and his crew focused on removing small and medium-size trees.

“Removing the smaller diameter material that

can act as ladder fuel is far more important than spacing out tree crowns,” said Hancock. “We try to emphasize to homeowners that ladder fuel removal is the best option, because it reduces the risk of a crown fire occurring near the structure. And if there’s ground fire, the flames will be shorter and the fire won’t be as intense. We’re trying to space out the tree crowns as much as we can, while keeping the property shaded, so we don’t get a ton of regeneration of the understory vegetation.”

Conifer seedlings and saplings, such as Douglas Fir, western red cedar and western hemlock, are far more flammable than deciduous species such as bigleaf maple or vine maple. AntFarm’s crew typically removes tree branches within 15 feet of the ground, sometimes higher, but no more than about one-third of a tree’s total height. Removing more branches from higher up in the tree could affect the tree’s health.

Fifteen feet is within the range of the crew’s pole saws. Some of the crew members are training to become tree climbers who can use specialized equipment and techniques to remove branches above 15 feet and, in some cases, remove entire small and medium-size trees in pieces, from the top down . On the day I visited the crew, assistant crew lead Aidan McNiece was undergoing such training under the supervision of experienced arborist Brad Peterson.

“Being able to climb will help us do removals of smaller trees around homes when there isn’t room to fell them, a situation we run into all the time in residential areas,” said Hancock.

The crew sometimes uses rope and winches to pull a tree in the direction they want it to fall, which lets them direct the tree away from structures and do less damage to trees and plants that the homeowner wants to protect. Such ropes can be attached by climbers who ascend to the neartop of the tree. Alternatively, the “Big Shot” is employed, a giant slingshot used by arborists that propels a weighted bag attached to a light -

weight line over tree limbs as high as 100 feet from the ground. The lightweight line is used to pull a heavy-duty rope into the tree to help guide the tree as it falls.

On this property, removing seedlings and saplings improved the view of a more open forest from the house and deck, and a ridge previously hidden by dense canopy was now visible, which pleased the owners.

AntFarm crews also worked on two neighboring properties with similar results.

“Whenever we can, we try to work on neighboring lots, because you have a much bigger impact on reducing fire risk when you’re working on a larger area, rather than a lot here and a lot farther down the road,” said Hancock, who added that homeowners associations and community groups have shown much interest in AntFarm’s program.

The size of the lot has a big impact, of course. Removing ladder fuels from around a house on two or three acres provides good protection.

“But a lot of neighborhoods have small lots and houses are very close together. The area we work in is called the home ignition zone, and it extends out to about 100 feet from the structure,” Hancock said. “So in some neighborhoods it’s common to have overlapping home ignition zones. In that case, what one neighbor does to reduce fire risk is going to impact other neighbors.”

Likewise, landowners with small lots who do not remove fuels may unintentionally increase the risk of a destructive fire for their nearby

neighbors. To date, AntFarm’s Community Wildfire Defense crew has worked on numerous properties in our area and is keen to do more.

I was very impressed with the expertise and enthusiasm of Hancock and his crew. If I weren’t a woodsman who can handle his own fuels removal project, I would be happy to have AntFarm work on my

property. For information about AntFarm’s program, or to perhaps donate to it, email Hancock at loganh@antfarmyouthservices.com. Have a question about reducing wildfire risk? Want to know how much fuel your gutters can hold? Let me know. Email: SWilent@gmail. com.

The Ant Farm Community Wildfire Defense Program crew removed “ladder fuels” from the property around this Rhododendron home. Photo by Steve Wilent.

Ant Farm’s Jeffrey Presley prepares to use a Big Shot device to shoot a light-weight line over a tree limb. The line will be used to pull a heavy rope used to assist in felling the tree.

Photo by Steve Wilent.

Museum Chatter: Mount Hood Naming Myths

By Lloyd Musser

For The Mountain Times

Mount Hood has two ski seasons each year and each season has different participants. The winter season generally runs from December thru April. Participants in the winter ski season are primarily residents of Oregon and Washington. The summer ski season starts in June and ends in mid-August. Participants in the summer ski season are from all over the United States and include visitors from many other countries. As one would expect, the knowledge of local history is quite different between the winter and summer visitors. We were inspired to write this article after listen -

ing to a group of teenage snowboard campers from New Jersey debate the reason the snowfield at Timberline Ski Area was named Palmer Snowfield. The wise guy in the group replied that Palmer was an early Oregon snowboarder that developed a bunch of tricks. This same guy proclaimed that the Pucci ski lift was named for the cute little winter fox native to Oregon. We are sorry, but both answers are wrong. We are happy to share the correct background information for a few of the place names our summer ski season visitors might encounter during their visit to Mount Hood.

Palmer Snowfield : Formerly a glacier, now

a snowfield, it was named for Joel Palmer. Palmer climbed up this snowfield in 1845, while helping Samuel Barlow locate the Barlow Road. The Barlow Road was a branch of the Oregon Trail that passed on the south side of Mount Hood en route to the Willamette Valley. Palmer went on to be an important political figure in Oregon.

Pucci Chairlift: Emilio Pucci came from Italy to Reed College in 1936 for his graduate studies. He also became the Reed Ski Team coach. His favorite ski team practice area was a glade just below and to the west of the Timberline Lodge. The area became known as Pucci Glade and his name was applied to the chairlift later built there.

Silcox Hut: This building is located at 7000’ on the Palmer Snowfield; it was originally the terminal for the first ski chairlift at Timberline Lodge, built in 1939. It is now a group bed and breakfast, operated by Timberline Lodge. The building is named for the then-chief of the U.S. Forest Service, Ferdinand Silcox.

Collins Lake Resor t: Many summer skiers

By Bradford Bixby

For The Mountain Times

Welcome back, Dear Reader, to another sizzling column on the world of golf. As I write this we are coming off a heat spell and have now

slid into that perfect golf temperature. Sizzling was an understatement for the 4th of July which I chose to spend at the Waterfront Blues Festival. It’s still a great event although I do miss the good old days when ten dollars or a couple of cans of food got you in the door. My favorite memory from the festival came over a decade ago. It was Saturday night and the headliner for the whole event, John

will stay in housing at this resort in Government Camp. The resort is built around a small lake named Collins Lake, so named because the property was owned by E.S. Collins. Mr. Collins was a very successful businessman who owned timber-related businesses in Oregon, Washington and California. His Government Camp property was, however, a place for him to relax and experiment growing fruits and vegetables at 4000’ elevation.

Mucoy Street : This street in Government Camp is not named for a man named Mucoy. O. C. Yocum, a Government Camp homesteader and developer, spelled his name backwards to name this short street when he subdivided his property. This same gentleman tried unsuccessly to change the name of the village from Government Camp to Pompeii.

Government Camp : This is the local place name that confuses visitors most. Visitors conjure up all sorts of reasons why this small alpine village uses the words government and camp in its name. The

most common reason has to do with some kind of prison or prison camp run by the government. Many visitors will ask, “Where did they keep the prisoners?” or “Who was interned here?”

Local service workers can recite many wild reasons for the name offered by visitors over the years.

We need to go back to the year 1849 to understand the reason the village is named Government Camp. The United States Army sent the first U.S. Mounted Rifles to Oregon that year. This large party of soldiers, horses, mules and wagons did not reach The Dalles until late fall. Here, most of the officers and enlisted men were transported to Vancouver by boat. A few soldiers were tasked with the job of taking the many horses, mules and wagons to Oregon City via the Barlow Road around the south side of Mount Hood. Their passage over the mountain was very slow due to deep snow and muddy conditions. When they reached an open meadow in the vicinity of present-day Government Camp,

the soldiers decided to cache the wagons and supplies and make a run for Oregon City. Thereafter, this location was referred to as the place the government (U.S. Army) camped. The name Government Camp became official when a post office was later established.

UPCOMING MUSEUM EVENTS:

August 17, 7:00 PM. Social History Happy Hour. Author Glenn Voelz will discuss his new book Oregon Search and Rescue, which documents the long history of volunteers doing search and rescue in Oregon.

Social History Happy Hour is held on the third Saturday of each month. Doors open at 6:30. $5.00 donation asked. Beer, wine, and sodas available for sale.

Lloyd Musser is the volunteer curator at the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum. The Museum is located at 88900 E. US 26, Government Camp, Oregon. Open every day, 9 – 5 www.mthoodmuseum.org ph. 503-2723301.

Hiatt, was playing on the south stage, which faces away from the river. He couldn’t see or hear the lightning storm raging on the other side. But we could, and every flash brought a massive oohs and aahs from the crowd. Poor John thought it was all for him. He stepped to the mic a bunch of times to tell us we were the best audience he ever played for. I’m sure we were but I’m glad no one spilled the beans and

broke up the love fest. Getting back to the present: we are in the heart of summer and the season is in full bloom. The course is in great shape and begs to be played. This is the time of year when the Men’s Club enjoys their match play championship with the open division winner being crowned club champion. The women will be crowning their Ace of Aces this month as well. And don’t worry, Dear Reader, your intrepid reporter will bring you the names of all the winners and no matter how modest and humble I am, I will still report if I win.

Speaking of tournaments, the course had a massive weekend with Miller Paint taking over the entire course on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning, followed by the Mike Nelson charity tournament on Saturday. Congratulations to Tom Franklin and his crew on their fine job, making both run as smooth as

the top of my head.

That brings me to the 4th of July weekend event held on Saturday the 6th and Sunday the 7th. On Saturday, the winning team as pictured consisted of Don Erickson, Lynann Solberg, Greg Johnson and Brian Meskel (who came in at minus 18, three strokes ahead of second place). Closest to the pin on the par threes were won by Ron Biehm, Raymond McCue (our beloved president), Mary Thompson and Tim Ramstad. On Sunday they held a 9 hole scramble with each player allowed to

use only 3 clubs all day. The winners were Dale and Kay Rhoney with Mike and Cathie Anderson. Closest to the pin winners Sunday were Lane Stalsberg, Pat Wiesner and Carmen Wiesner.

Congratulations to all the winners and all the players for making it a great weekend of golf.

That’s about it ,kids. Resort GM Christopher Skipper is bringing live music to the Mallards grass patio every Friday for the summer. Yay! Come join us and when you do remember to “Hit Em Straight./”

Left: Joel Palmer, Oregon trailblazer in 1845.

Right: Sam Barlow, opened the Barlow Road on Mt. Hood’s southside in 1845.

Mt. Hood Golf News

Winning team of Don Erickson, Lynann Solberg, Greg Johnson and Brian Meskel.

Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation!

By Lisa Kilders, Clackamas Soil and

Water Conservation District

For The Mountain Times

Save the Date! On Saturday, August 3, 2024, Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District is celebrating our 50th Anniversary!

It’s a huge achievement and one that has had a positive impact on all our lives here in Clackamas County.

The District works with Clackamas County residents to help them protect rivers and streams that provide drinking water, and we support farmers markets! We help agricultural producers and landowners reduce erosion, improve pastures, manage manure, and improve streamside vegetation and wildlife habitat. We work on controlling priority invasive weeds

on agricultural land and natural areas. Without knowing it, you have benefited directly from the work of the Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District. So bring your family and friends to our permanent home in Beavercreek, Oregon, and help us celebrate!

FREE EVENT!

August 3, 2024 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District, 22055 S. Beavercreek Rd. Beavercreek, OR 97004

What to Expect at our 50th Anniversary Celebration

Between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., children and adults alike can enjoy:

• Visit Claudia, the GIANT 29-foot Chinook Salmon

Explore our Native White Oak Tunnel

• Make Native Plant Seed Balls (seed bombs)

• Sit still for Face Painting

• Have fun Button Making

• Enjoy food, beverages and cold treats

• Listen to a variety of speakers on different conservation topics (in our air-conditioned conference room!)

Test your invasive weed identification skills and talk to our staff about weed control

Check out the equipment in our Equipment Rental Program

• Engage with some of our valued partners including The Backyard Habitat Certification Program, Watershed Council Partners, The Dry Farming Institute, the 10 O’Clock Church’s Backpack Buddies

Program, the Beavercreek Hamlet, and more!

Learn About the District

For the last fifty years, the District has grown and changed with the conservation landscape in Clackamas County. Today we offer a wide variety of services in a voluntary and non-regulatory manner. Take a look at what we do:

Our WeedWise Department actively manages priority invasive weeds from remote destinations in the Mt Hood National Forest to the rural and urban areas of Clackamas County. We assist Clackamas residents in protecting their property and preserving our natural areas from damaging invasive weeds.

Our Conservation Planning Department offers technical assis -

tance to landowners and managers on a wide variety of topics, including mud and manure management, pasture management, erosion control and runoff management, irrigation efficiency, streamside restoration, pollinator habitat, Oregon white oak habitat, and soil health.

For our urban residents, we support the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.

Our Conservation Investments Program offers loans for septic system repair or replacement. We also offer loans for the implementation of conservation practices. This program is funded through a Clean Water State Revolving Fund agreement with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

Our Education and Outreach Department

provides publications, articles, workshops, displays, videos and events centered around the conservation of natural resources. We offer an educational website and Facebook access. This program partners with neighboring SWCDs and other organizations to broaden our outreach and education efforts.

Our Land Management Department manages our 15-acre Conservation Resource Center. Here we are implementing our strategic plan to offer demonstrations of conservation practices and provide educational opportunities for the community. This department also manages our 315-acre Eagle Creek Community Forest property.

Check out our website to learn more about the District. www.conservationdistrict.org

Do you have an event that you would like to promote?

Email kaity@mountaintimesoregon.com. Space is limited and not guaranteed. Event details may be edited for simplification.

Due Date 15th of prior month. Events subject to change without notice.

REPEAT EVENTS

Events & Activities Calendar

Bear Necessities: Essentials for Avoiding Bear Encounters

By OR Department of Fish and Wildlife

For The Mountain Times

For many forest dwelling communities, it’s common knowledge that we share the woods with animals of all shapes and sizes. Some of these critters, like songbirds, we welcome to our homes with open arms, offer -

ing food and well wishes. Other animals, particularly those with sharp teeth and claws, are less welcome because they can harm pets, property or even people.

Black bears, with their keen sense of smell, are particularly susceptible to the draw of an uncleaned barbeque grill, an unlocked dumpster, a dangling bird feeder or a half-eaten bowl of pet food on the back porch. Bears are extremely vulnerable to the dangerous habit of associating human communities and food opportunities. Once a bear gains access to human food or garbage and becomes “habituated,” it can lose its natural fear of humans which can lead to a variety of safety problems for both people and the bears. Sadly, because bears habituated to human food sources are known to repeat these behaviors, they cannot be relocated and must often be euthanized to protect public safety. This means that Oregon’s black bears

need our help to keep them, as well as our communities, safe.

Oregon is home to an estimated 30,000 black bears, many of which live in the northwest part of the state. With so many bears and people trying to occupy the same space, conflicts are inevitable. Specifically, the area along Highway 26 between Sandy and Government Camp inevitably requires the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to respond to a high volume of humanbear related conflicts.

On a regular basis, citizens in these areas report bears raiding garbage cans, damaging property and coming too close for comfort to humans. Several factors may be contributing to this “hot spot” of encounters: numerous bears in the area, a growing human population, and a constant flux of recreationists and vacationers.

The good news is that these human-bear conflicts can be avoided.

By following a few simple guidelines, our communities can be safer places for both people and bears. Here are a few recommendations on how we can help:

– NEVER feed bears.

– Clean and secure garbage cans and barbeques, take garbage with you when leaving your vacation home or rental, and wait to place garbage cans on the street until the morning of pickup.

– Feed pets indoors and minimize bird feeding when bears are active

between spring and fall.

– Remove fallen fruit and other attractants and encourage neighbors to do the same.

Bear proofing your yard and neighborhood has been proven to reduce potentially dangerous encounters and together we can keep Oregon bears wild!

For more information on how to live with black bears visit www. dfw.state.or.us/wildlife/ living_with/black_bears. asp

Poster campaign promotes carrying bear spray in Yellowstone National Park. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.

Advertisement for bear protection spray in Banff, Alberta Canada. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.

By Dr. Robert Kelly, D.M.D. General Dentist, McKenzie Dental

It has been almost 20 years since I graduated from dental school in Boston and many memories and experiences are still vivid from my four years living in New England. One memory that stands out in recent thought is the fanatical and undying loyalty the fans had for their professional sports teams in

The Whole Tooth: Championship Teeth

New England, particularly the New England Patriots, Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, and of course the Boston Red Sox. Rooting for the Red Sox was particularly exhilarating – and heartbreaking – whenever they played the New York Yankees.

Recently the Boston Celtics won the NBA basketball championship, adding banner number 18 (the most of any NBA team) to the rafters of the new Boston Garden. They had one player on their roster to thank for sacrificing a part of his body – his teeth– for a clutch play in the NBA finals. Celtics point guard Derrick White had to pay a quick visit to his dentist after diving for a

loose ball and smashing his face onto the court in the process. As if this wasn’t enough, an opponent, Dallas Mavericks’ big man Dereck Lively II fell on top of him, adding insult to injury and the crazy coincidence of two Dereck’s. Oh, and by the way, Dereck Lively II is not a small man, standing at 7’1”: that’s a big guy to have fall on top of your head!

Despite the injury that caused one broken and two loose teeth, Derrick White stayed in the game and finished. He promptly paid a visit to his dentist where a quick temporary fix was delivered. And the rest is history, as the Celtics went on to defeat the Mavericks for the NBA championship. As you

can see from this picture, White was all smiles with the win, despite his future at the dentist. He is set to make over $20 million next year with his 20242025 contract with the Celtics so he’ll be able to afford it, and perhaps a well-fitted mouth guard as well!

Derrick White embodies the true spirit of New England sports fans. As one fan posted in response to his picture “he’s a hockey player at point guard. He’s genuinely willing to get his face smashed in to accomplish the team goal. Maybe missing a tooth, didn’t miss a play. What a dude.”

Yes, what a dude.

From Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office

On Saturday, July 6, the Clackamas County and Hood River County Sheriff's Offices led a mission to evacuate a critically injured climber from Mt. Hood.

Around 7:45 a.m. on July 6, 2024, a climber slipped on the Old Chute route on Mt. Hood. This is a very steep climbing route, high on the mountain's south side, located at around 11,200' elevation. The snow surface was frozen, and the climber

was unable to arrest his fall — tumbling about 700 feet down to the Hot Rocks area and sustaining multiple injuries.

Fortunately, help was nearby: A couple of off-duty military medics witnessed his fall and descended to help. Two Mt. Hood National Forest climbing rangers also were in the area, and provided first aid to the injured climber.

Search & Rescue Coordinators from the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and Hood River County Sheriff's Office activated a joint mission. They called on personnel from Portland Mountain

Rescue (PMR) and the Hood River Crag Rats to mount an evacuation. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management and U.S. Forest Service also joined the mission. Given the patient’s critical condition, SAR Coordinators requested helicopter transport from the Oregon Army National Guard's 189th Aviation Regiment, which specializes in medical evacuations.

PMR and Crag Rats rescuers reached the patient shortly after 1 p.m. They stabilized the patient and prepared him for transport.

Excellent flight conditions allowed the National

Guard helicopter to do a dramatic "hot landing" on a portion of the Hogsback. As seen in this video (courtesy PMR), rescuers transported the patient the short distance to the aircraft, which then flew him to a Portland hospital for emergency treatment.

The patient was off the mountain quickly—about six hours after his fall — largely because mountain conditions were ideal for rescue.

The injured climber is identified as Arizona resident Chris Zwierzynski, age 55.

According to Mark Morford of Portland Mountain Rescue, "May

through early July is a popular time to climb Mt. Hood, and good climbing conditions have lasted longer this year than most. Nevertheless, all routes up the mountain are technical, requiring specialized training and equipment. All routes become progressively more difficult approaching the summit, which can lure inexperienced climbers into situations beyond their skill. Portland Mountain Rescue urges climbers to get proper training from an organization like the Mazamas, or to climb with a qualified guide."

Derrick White’s face meets the floor during Celtics - Mavericks Game 5. Photo ESPN on ABC.

By Dr. Melanie Brown Chiropractic Physician, Mountain Life Clinic

Regenerative medicine is revolutionizing healthcare by offering treatments that enhance the body’s healing ability. Among the most promising techniques are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, prolotherapy, and trigger point injections. These methods are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in treating various conditions, including chronic pain, inflammation and injuries to ligaments, joints, muscles, and tendons.

Well Adjusted: Exploring the Benefits of Regenerative Medicine

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) THERAPY

PRP therapy involves extracting a small amount of a patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the PRP into the injured area. Platelets are rich in the growth factors crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. PRP therapy has shown promising results in treating osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and ligament injuries. By promoting natural healing, PRP therapy can reduce pain, improve function, and accelerate recovery. PRP therapy is more expensive than prolotherapy but may be more effective for specific conditions and requires fewer injections.

PROLOTHERAPY

TRIGGER POINT

INJECTIONS

Trigger points are tight knots of muscle that can cause pain in other parts of the body. Trigger point injections involve injecting a local anesthetic, saline, and sometimes vitamin B12 or corticosteroid into these knots to relieve pain and improve muscle function. This treatment is beneficial for conditions like myofascial pain syndrome and tension headaches, providing significant relief from chronic pain.

Prolotherapy, or proliferation therapy, involves injecting a dextrose solution into injured or weakened areas. This solution stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, leading to the regeneration of damaged tissues. Prolotherapy is particularly effective for chronic pain conditions, such as back pain, joint pain, and ligament laxity. It helps strengthen and stabilize the affected area, providing long-term relief.

THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND GUIDANCE IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

One critical advancement in regenerative medicine is using ultrasound guidance for injections. Dr. Steven Nguyen at Pure Life Clinic in Portland is a practitioner who utilizes this technology to enhance the precision and effectiveness of regenerative treatments. Dr. Steven says, “Using ultrasound-guided injections is my preferred method because it significantly increases the accuracy and safety of the procedure. By visualizing the target area in real time, I can precisely guide the needle to the intended location, which is especially crucial for delicate or hard-to-reach areas. This technique minimizes the risk of damaging surrounding tissues, nerves, or blood vessels. Additionally, it

enhances patient comfort by reducing the likelihood of multiple needle insertions and improving overall outcomes. Seeing the medication delivered exactly where needed gives me confidence in providing the best possible care to my patients.”

In conclusion, regenerative medicine techniques like PRP therapy, prolotherapy, and trigger point injections offer promising solutions for chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions.

Using ultrasound guidance enhances these treatments’ precision, efficacy, and safety, providing patients with a higher standard of care. These treatments are safe and effective for a variety of conditions and can prevent or prolong the need for surgery. By leveraging the body’s natural healing processes, regenerative medicine is paving the way for innovative and effective pain management strategies.

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) being injected into a hand. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.

Hoodland Women’s Club Highlights

By Cathy Lavin, HWC

For The Mountain Times

The major annual fundraiser for the Hoodland Women’s Club (HWC) is just a few weeks away and last-minute details are being nailed down. This year’s 20th annual benefit golf tournament will be Thursday, August 15, at the Mt. Hood Oregon Resort. Those interested in registering for the shotgun scramble can find registration forms on the HWC website. Registration deadline is Monday, August 5. The $120/ person fee ($95 for those with an annual golf pass at the Resort) includes green fees, cart, golf prizes and lunch provided by Busy Bee Catering or Mogul Mountain Pizza. Tee time will be 8:30 a.m. Registration forms are

available at www.hoodlandwomensclub.org.

The tournament will be followed by lunch and an auction/raffle at approximately 2 p.m. Even those who don’t golf are invited to join the golfers for the auction and raffle. Auction items include Mountain Lodging, the ever popular Dinner for Six at Six, and a home wine tasting experience. A multitude of themed baskets ranging from everything needed for top-of-the-line margaritas to kitchen essentials will be awarded to holders of winning raffle tickets. Those wanting to purchase lunch to attend the auction can fill out the golfer registration form listing their name as a golfer and selecting “lunch only.”

This year marks the

tournament’s first ever diamond level sponsor ($2,500 sponsorship), All County Real Estate (ACRE), owned by HWC member Adriane Bovero. HWC extends a huge “thank you” not only to ACRE, but to its gold, silver and bronze level sponsors (see the Club’s ad, flyer and Facebook page for a complete list) as well as all the members of the Hoodland Community who have played a part in helping this year’s tournament raise funds for local scholarships and other community needs.

Gold-level sponsors include FreeUp Storage Facilities, Evergreen Home Loans, Sandy Decor and the Karen and Ed Bassett Fund; Becca Kolibaba Real Estate, Inc., Mountain Life Clinic, And Welches Smoke & Vape. Gifts, Hoodland Bazaar, Clackamas County Bank, The Mountain Cru, Thriftway, Mt. Hood Cannabis Company, Mike and Carol Stout, Ever Fresh Fruit Company, Sandy Grocery Outlet, Safeway, Whistle Stop, Allay Consulting and Skyway will all be silver-level sponsors. In addition, a number of local individuals and businesses are bronze-level sponsors.

For the fiscal year

ending June 30, HWC grew its membership by 12% and financially contributed to multiple community concerns, including financial support for six individual neighbors in need, Meals on Wheels, Welches Schools, Mt. Hood Unida and Neighborhood Missions. In addition, members contributed time and talents to a multitude of local organi zations and fundraising activities ranging from Adopt-A-Road to the Hoodland Block Parties.

HWC Members have not only supported community needs, but participated in a number of social activities. The most recent of these was a “Hobby Mixer” on July 18 where club and commu nity members shared expertise with other hobbyists.

Those interested in becoming HWC members can join via our newly updated HWC website. Dues are $25 per year. The next general meeting will be in September, but members will gather from 3-5 p.m. August 5 at Wild wood Recreation Area for the Club’s annual picnic. Anyone interested in learning more about HWC in an informal setting is invited to attend.

MOUNTAIN VENUES with MENUS

Mt. Hood Lions Club: Mountain Roar

By Lion, Milt Fox

For The Mountain Times

SWIMMING

LESSONS!

This year’s Swimming Lessons program was a great success. We had 98 students registered and all made great gains in their swimming and water safety abilities, many swimming the length of the pool. All were presented with a special Gold Medal in recognition of their achievements. We thank Lion Aubrey Hatzi who was our Lead Instructor and a great crew of other instructors and lifeguards, including Lion Erin Midgett, Lion

Katie Wirth, and Lion Ray Eagley, alongside Roni Meachum, Zia Thomason, Tanner Eagley, and Briton Martin. And we can’t forget the help of Lion Patti Buoy for her working with parents to get the registration and schedules coordinated, and to Lion Marlyne Casley for the daily registration. Thanks also to the seat warmers, Lions Dave Anderson, Craig Calvert, Milt Fox, Tyler Lehmann, and Dan Wolf, and finally to Lion David Buoy, our very cheerful and capable chairman. We owe a very special thank you to the dedicated

staff members of Camp Arrah Wanna for their hospitality and the very generous discounted rate for the use of their fine swimming pool and locker room facilities. We certainly would not have been able to have completed this wonderful program without their generous help. We also appreciate the great community support of the fundraising efforts needed for this project.

CHUCKWAGON BREAKFAST!

Thank you for attending our Chuckwagon Breakfast. We had a pretty good turnout, serving 476 over the two days. We had great food and many nice comments from our guests. Our dining room looked wonderful thanks to the talents of Lion Candice Kelly and her crew of decorators. Our Turkey Shoot, which is always a lot of fun, was very successful. We had offered ribs as a popular substitute this year, since there were

no turkeys available. Lion Cari Gesch was our Breakfast Chairwoman and as always, she was helped by a great crew of Lions. New this year was our car show which proved to be very popular. We had 39 great cars on display over the two days. Additionally, we had vendors in our parking lot selling their wares. And oh, that wonderful ice cream from Chris Page and his great new ice cream trailer. Thanks go to Welches Mountain Building Supply, Welches Clackamas County Bank, The Whistle Stop Tavern, and Coffee House 26,for the sale of our tickets and to the Sandy Scout Troop for their hard work in the dining room. Special thanks go to Rob, John, and Calvin at Hoodland Thriftway for their generous discounts and donations.

INAUGURAL BALL

In recognition of all of the recent hard work by Lions members, Lion President David

Anderson issued an executive order inviting all Lions to a Inaugural Ball & Tiki Party on Saturday, July 20th. Much fun was had by all attending, with a DJ and dancing, wonderful food, drinks, and tropical garb.

CHARTER NIGHT

We celebrated the chartering of our club with a great steak dinner on July 24th. We learned a little about early club history and some of the community projects of our club. Our club’s first “Charter Night” was held on July 28th, 1951, at the Zig Zag Inn some 73 years ago, with over 200 people present.

MOBILE HEALTH

CLINIC

We had to move the date of our “femforward” Mobile Health Clinic to Friday July 26th. I hope to be able to give a good report in next month’s column.

COMING UP

Hood to Coast drive thru Burrito Breakfast, Friday August 23rd 4am to 10pm!

We are supporting the Hood to Coast event by having a drive thru Burrito Breakfast available for sale to race participants on Friday morning August 23rd. This Burrito Breakfast will also be available to the public. Hours are from 4:00 am until 10:00 am. Price at the door is $6.00.

Welches Charity Open Golf Tournament Saturday September 7th

We will be having a golf tournament in association with the Oregon Resort at the Mountain to benefit our community disaster relief fund. The cost is $100 per person for the tournament. The tournament will be a shotgun start scramble. Food and drink will be available throughout the course. Please contact Lion President Dave Anderson at 971-373-3869 if you would like to register or if you would like to be a sponsor. 8:30 am check in and start time will be at 10 am. It’s great to be a Lion!

Property Management

Outdoors

The Angle: Are the Summer Steelhead Back?

By Lucas Holmgren

The Mountain Times

A recent article of mine discussed the start of a very encouraging number of Summer Steelhead. What hadn’t started yet was the Sockeye Salmon run, which is brief for the Lower Columbia and almost completely made up of fish headed far above Bonneville Dam to the upper reaches of the Columbia River.

Unlike the Summer Steelhead and Summer Chinook runs, the Sockeye run in the Columbia is very brief, and as a result, on a good year it can be mindblowing how many Salmon are swimming by our very banks of Oregon and Washington beaches. At the time of writing (7/16/24) over 742,000 Sockeye have crossed over Bonneville Dam. This is far beyond

the previous record of 614,179 Sockeye that passed over the first Columbia Dam (Bonneville) in 2014. With such an incredible run of what many consider to be the worlds best-tasting Salmon, one would think that the fishing season in the Lower Columbia would have liberal limits and lots of opportunity. That is not the case this year, as just a few endan -

gered stocks of Sockeye in the Snake River have shown some sign of decreased returns, combined with concerns about spawning-time temperatures which can have a dramatic affect on Sockeye Salmon, as they are not as hardy as other species. Other stocks of Sockeye, however, have far exceeded expectations, resulting in increased limits to allow for more harvest.

By the end of July the Sockeye run usually dwindles to small numbers, even on excellent years like 2024. So although 2024 is the best year on record since Bonneville Dam started counting fish returns, residents looking to fish around cities like Vancouver and Portland were able to fish at the peak of the season due to an early emergency closure of the fishery. This is a common occurrence with many stocks of fish, especially the prized Spring Chinook.

Anglers fishing in the Upper Columbia have been able to enjoy excellent fishing and relatively high harvest

SUDOKU

limits. No matter what, the number of Sockeye Salmon, not to mention a strong improvement in Summer Steelhead returns, point to improved ocean conditions, as salmon & steelhead returns are not only affected by their juvenile development in the river, but in large part by ocean conditions and predation as well.

With numbers like this returning to the Columbia River, there is an optimistic outlook as to what is usually the best time for Salmon fishing in the Northwest, Fall. Chinook and Coho are more coastal in their ocean migration, and if this summer is any indication, we could be in for a very “fishy” fall.

Edited by Margie E. Burke

HOW TO SOLVE: Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

Crossword by Margie E. Burke

CROSSWORD by Margie E. Burke

SUDOKU by Margie E. Burke

Owner of Addicted Fishing Marlin Lefever with a sockeye salmon

The author’s father Ron with a Columbia River chinook.

Outdoors

The Viewfinder: Puffins of Iceland

By Gary Randall

For The Mountain Times

With the latest news about puffins being spotted on Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach as well as the news about the new Oregon license plate that features puffins, the birds are riding a tide of popularity here in Oregon. It was a surprising coincidence that I heard about both while I was in Iceland photographing the scenery and a colony of puffins.

I have photographed puffins in Oregon but that was long ago, and the birds were in the distance. The same went for my attempts

in Alaska: I have puffin photos, but they were so small that they were hardly worth attention.

I love puffins and photographing them in close proximity has always been a dream of mine.

I finally had the chance last month during a photography trip of a lifetime.

I spent ten days exploring this incredible island but as epic as the landscapes are there, spending time with a puffin colony was certainly close to the top of my list of highlights from the trip. We drove to one of the furthest north villages on Borgarfjörður eystri, a fjord in northern

Iceland, just to photograph them.

In the little settlement of Bakkagerði, there is a colony of Atlantic Puffins you can sit with at a close distance. The village has a colony of over 10,000 mating pairs that nest there from April to mid-August. There is a staircase that leads up onto a rock promontory through the colony of birds. Guardrails keep visitors on the boardwalk. Halfway up the staircase there is a small wooden building that was built as a blind that photographers can get out of the weather and photograph the birds without

them knowing. I was in heaven – many of the birds were as close as a meter or two away.

The puffins of Bakkagerði are protected by law during the breeding season, ensuring their safety and well-being. The village is committed to responsible tourism and conservation and maintaining a healthy puffin population. There is a large sign educating about the birds, as well as how donations can be made for their care. The village has created a model for sustainable wildlife tourism in Iceland.

Because we were there during 24-hour

daylight we spent the whole night photographing these fascinating little birds coming and going. They would fly off for food and then return with a beak full of little fish. I found it almost impossible to get a good photo of them with fish in their mouths because as soon as they flew in, they would dive into their little borough in the dirt in an attempt to evade the sea gulls who would be glad to have the puffin’s meal. The birds were fun to watch as they went about their business.

In the end of a tiring but incredible night spent photograph -

ing puffins. I came home with some great photos, yet I cannot wait to return. I think that the next time I am in Bakkagerði I will be less pressured by trying to get great photos and will pay more attention to just spending time with them.

I will probably buy the Oregon puffin license plate and will still pursue a good photo of our local puffins on the Oregon Coast, but until then I have my Iceland puffin photos to enjoy.

If you have even considered taking a trip to Iceland, do it and do not forget your camera.

The Dynamic Dance of Lava and Glaciers that Shaped Mount Hood’s Landscape

By Robert Matsumura For The Mountain Times

Among the Klickitat and Multnomah peoples, Mount Hood was often depicted as a powerful and benevolent deity, a sacred and revered landmark. Other stories spoke of supernatural beings or powerful spirits who inhabited the mountain, making it a site of pilgrimage, inspiration and spiritual guidance. For settlers arriving on the Oregon Trail, the mountain was a source of awe, but also trepidation, as it represented a daunting physical obstacle standing between them and their final destination – the Willamette Valley. One thing is for certain, the volcano we know as Mount Hood has played a significant role in both the cultural and geologic history of Oregon.

A Long-Lived Volcano

Mount Hood has been an active volcano for around 500,000 years, creating a series of additional volcanic formations over the past 1.5 million years. The mountain’s current structure is primarily composed of ancient lava flows. Over the past 30,000 years, subsequent eruptions have occurred, mostly involving the forma -

tion and collapse of lava domes near its summit, resulting in large fans of volcanic debris. Closer to the present, a number of eruptions occurred around 1,500 years ago, followed by activity as late as the 1700s.

500,000 to 100,000 Years Ago: Building Mount Hood Mount Hood’s broad slopes, which stretch about 20 km in diameter, were formed from numerous lava flows occurring between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago. These flows varied in thickness and were often shaped by the presence of large glaciers. Famous landmarks like Gnarl Ridge, Lamberson Butte and Illumination Rock were formed during this time. Meanwhile, regional volcanoes like Mount Defiance and Lost Lake Butte also erupted, creating shield volcanoes.

About 100,000 years ago, a massive landslide removed the summit and north flank of Mount Hood, creating a large lahar (volcanic mudflow) that traveled down the Hood River Valley and into the Columbia River. This tremendous landslide significantly altered and reshaped the valley, temporarily blocking

waterways, filling in sections of the valley, and actually widening it in some places. Much of the current landscape we see today in the Hood River Valley was a result of this major geologic event.

100,000 to 30,000 Years Ago: Rebuilding

In the wake of the landslide, Mount Hood experienced new lava flows that filled in the scar left by the lahar. These flows, some as old as 40,000 to 50,000 years, formed areas like Langille Crags and Stranahan Ridge. Despite being covered by glaciers during the last ice age, these lava flows still exhibit well-preserved features. Much of the Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort and the popular Paradise Park area lie on the ancient lava flows generated during this period.

30,000 to 12,000 Years Ago: The Polallie Eruptive Period

About 20,000 years ago, during the last major ice age, Mount Hood was covered by enormous glaciers that shaped its landscape. Over time, these glaciers carved out deep valleys and left piles of rocky debris in their wake. As the ice moved, it eroded older volcanic depos -

its and interacted with newer lava flows, creating many of the fabulous valleys and ridges visible today. As the climate warmed and the ice melted and receded, it left behind a rugged legacy, a testament to how the combination of volcanic eruptions and glaciers have worked in tandem to shape Mount Hood over time. Many of the deposits from this period can be found along the Sandy, Hood, and White River valleys. Notable features from this time include Steel Cliff and the Eliot Glacier headwall.

Although not directly a result of volcanic activity from Mt. Hood itself, but from one of the volcanic events in the vicinity of the mountain, is the Parkdale flow which occurred approximately 7000 years ago. Evidence of the flow is clearly evident around the town of Parkdale today.

Around 1,500 Years Ago: The Timberline Eruptive Period

After a long dormant period, Mount Hood erupted again around 1,500 years ago. This period once again saw the formation of new lava domes, pyroclastic flows (a fast-moving current of hot gas, ash, and volcanic rock that travels down the slopes of a volcano during an explosive eruption) and lahars. Of particular significance to today’s landscape was a large landslide that rumbled down the southwest flank of the mountain and the subsequent lahar which pushed down through the Zigzag and Sandy River valleys. The areas where Timberline Lodge and Government Camp currently reside were shaped by this activity, along with the Sandy River delta, also formed by the same events.

1781 C.E.: The Old Maid Eruptive Period

The Old Maid eruptive period (named after Old Maid Flat— based on the legend of a reclusive woman who once dwelt in the area), the most recent major activity at Mount Hood, continued for approximately a decade in the late 1700s. This period involved the repeated collapse of a lava dome resulting in additional pyroclastic flows and lahars. Shortly after this activity, in the early 1800s, explorers Lewis and Clark visited the area and noted the Sandy River’s resemblance to the sediment-heavy Platte River—a comparison which would have indicated recent volcanic activity.

Mid-19th Century Eruptions

As recently as 1859 and 1865, early settlers reported seeing eruptions at Mount Hood, describing fire, smoke, flying rocks, and steam. These reports likely referred to minor explosive activity from Crater Rock, which was active

during the Old Maid period, although no definitive deposits have been found to corroborate these sightings. Crater Rock, located on the south side of Mount Hood, is a key landmark for climbers and hikers today, and frequently still emits steam, indicative of the geothermal activity still transpiring beneath the surface.

A View From the Top So the next time you’re gazing up at Mount Hood and marveling at its majestic snow-capped peak, remember the geologic history of this iconic mountain — a testament to the dynamic and powerful forces of nature. From ancient lava flows to explosive eruptions and massive landslides, Oregon’s most famous mountain has continually reshaped itself over the centuries. Whether you’re skiing at Mount Hood Meadows or hiking around Timberline Lodge, you’re standing atop a landscape forged by fiery volcanic activity and the movements of mighty glaciers.

Mt. Hood Parkdale Lava Flow.

Mountain Classified Ads

EMPLOYMENT

VACASA IS SEEKING SEASONAL PIECEWORK HOUSEKEEPERS IN THE MOUNT HOOD REGION!

Do you have a passion to create lasting vacation memories? We want to meet you! This pays $32-$200 per project (Average $95 per project), $18/hr for hourly work, PTO, Benefits based on hours worked, 401K with 6% match and more! $500 Sign on bonus after 30 days. $500 Retention bonus at end of season, Must be hired by 8/1 For more details apply at www.vacasa.com/careers

BREAKFAST COOK.

Looking for an experienced Breakfast Cook. Wednesday thru Sunday, Apply in person at the Barlow Trail Roadhouse, Welches.

WORK WANTED

Pest, insect and rodent control. Affordable, friendly, honest and efficient. Locally owned and operated since 2004. For an evaluation, call Glenn at 503-784-1669.

HOODLAND CAREGIVER

Private caregiver available part time. M, W, F consistently available, 6 hours each day. I have 25 years of nursing experience (RN). I can work with all ages. I am caring, knowledgeable, reliable & flexible. I can provide medical care, household duties, drive to medical appointments, etc. Please call me at 503-516-4949

FREE STUFF

Free horse manure - I load, you haul.

Great for gardens or building up soil. Call 503-260-4993 for more info. Brightwood.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IMMACULATE RIVERFRONT

CEDAR CABIN

Private Sale.

*Remodeled, 576 sf, 1 BD + Loft/1 Bath, .37 acres

*Quiet, preferred area, 398 sf Port Orford Cedar deck

*River and woodland views from tall windows

*No broker courtesy, call for showing 503-668-0107

$497,000

*Matterport and pics: vacasa.com/unit/961

COZY CABIN FOR SALE BY OWNER.

Two bedroom one bathroom cabin is approx. 700 SF, heated shed of approx. 200 SF, wood shed, new decking & paint in 2022, hot tub, seasonal community pool. Located in Zig Zag Village HOA, this second home of 24 years is priced to sell. Serious inquiries only 503-235-3030 FOR

SALE

BECKEL CANVAS WALL TENT 9X12.

Internal steel pole set, angle kit, stove hole, rope set, 2 tarps, stakes $1,200. Bumper cargo carrier $50 Leave message at 503-622-1355 SERVICES

MT. HOOD SPECIALTY CLEANING

Licensed property management Roof, gutter, moss removal/ treat, window cleaning , power washing, cleanup & haul always! Local, Current Verifiable refs. 30+ yrs experience. Lic/insured. 503*504*1523

Make sure that roof is ready for fire season” senior discounts.

CASCADE YARD WORKS

Landscape Maintenance Now accepting new accounts!!!  Create and maintain a defensible space. Call today for pricing!!!  503-806-2122

Solutions to Crossword and Sudoku from Page 28

Solution to Crossword:

JOE’S SCRAPPING.

SUDOKU

Unwanted cars, trucks and motor homes. Free removal. Put a little $ in your pocket. Call Joe at 503-622-6392

TNT CARPET CLEANING

Residential and Commercial Carpet and upholstery cleaning. Dryer vent cleaning 503-705-0504 Tntcarpetcleaning.com

CHANDLER BURKE LOGGING, LLC

Firewood Split and delivered Stacking options available 503-622-4929 971-404-9522

A TOUCH OF CLASS CLEANING, INC. We clean your house with integrity and excellence, while you experience a quality of life spending time doing what you love! Licensed, bonded, insured. www.toccleaning.com. 503-407-7329

COMPUTER GOTCHA STUCK?

Help is just a phone call away: Let Wy’East Computer Solutions proven software, hardware, and networking experience save the day! The area’s MOST TRUSTED COMPTIA A+ Certified computer support professional at the area’s MOST REASONABLE rates! No charge for idle time related to downloads or running processes. CLIENT REFERENCES AVAILABLE. Call 503.622.9183 or Email ryan@wyeastcs.com TODAY!

ANIMALS

Farm Cats. Natural Rodent Control. All neutered. Donations accepted. 503-816-7620

Beware of Puppy Mills Know where your puppy came from. If you or someone you care about has purchased a dog in a pet store or over the internet, it may be your puppy came from a Puppy Mill. If you think there may be a puppy mill in your community, call 1-877-MILL-TIP

If you are considering getting a pet, please consider adopting a pet from your local animal shelter, or choose a responsible breeder.

NOTICE: People selling or giving animals away are advised to be selective about the new guardians. For the protection of the animal, a personal visit to the animals new home is recommended. Please remember to spay and neuter –prevent unwanted litters!

MOUNTAIN MILESTONES

Edited by Margie E. Burke

The Mountain Times accepts obituaries, birth announcements, engagements, weddings and other announcements.

Residents of the Hoodland area and non-residents withsignificant ties to the mountain community may submit.

CAROL’S COMPLETE CLEANING. Cleaning from Sandy to Government Camp since 1991. Specializing in Residential and Commercial. 503-622-1142

RENTAL WANTED

Young professional woman, outdoor enthusiast, and current resident looking for 1 or 2 bedroom long term rental in Mount Hood Villages starting October 1. Call Nicole (858) 705-1354.

HOW TO SOLVE:

There is no charge, but space is limited.

Please email submissions to kaity@ mountaintimesoregon.com

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue) 6 1 8 3 8 4 1 6 2 1 3 7 5 3 4 7 5 2 2 7 6 2 8

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Classifieds Deadline for September is

Mountain Milestones

Brenna Alexander and Christopher Skipper

On August 10th 2019 Brenna Alexander, 24, and I (Christopher Skipper, 27) got married. At our wedding we had over 300 people from around the community celebrate with us in an outdoor service and reception at the Church On The Mountain. Now, on August 10th 2024, we celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary. I have been blessed to have spent the last five years with my wife, Brenna Skipper, and I look forward to the many years to come.

Lillian “Lilli” LaRue Ann Sawyer 1932–2024

Lillian LaRue Ann Bender Sawyer – took her Savior’s hand on June 23, 2024: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, with loving -

Hood to Coast Event Reminder

As the annual Hood to Coast relay race approaches, set for August 23rd-24th, it's essential to be aware of the increased activity on roads and in communities along the 197-mile route. This iconic race, stretching from Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood

to the Pacific Ocean, will see thousands of runners, support vans and volunteers navigating the course over two days. For residents and travelers in the area, please exercise extra caution. Expect to see runners on roadways, often at night and in low-visibil-

ity conditions. Drivers should be vigilant, reducing speed, particularly in rural and residential areas, and watch for runners crossing streets or taking rest breaks at designated relay points. Support vans, crucial for transporting runners and supplies, will be parked along the route and moving between exchange points. These vans can create congestion and potential hazards, so patience and careful driving are paramount. When approaching parked vans, give them plenty of space and be prepared for sudden stops or runners emerging unexpectedly.

Safety is a top priority for everyone involved

kindness I have drawn you.” – Jeremiah 31:3 Lilli was born in McCook, NE on June 21st , 1932 to Virginia and Carl Bender. Due to the Great Depression, her parents moved to Oregon where her father opened a Plymouth dealership in Lake Oswego. After graduating from Grant High School in 1950, she took classes at Marylhurst College. She worked as a Bell telephone operator and at Tektronix in Beaverton in the early 1960s. After raising her children, she worked for the US Forest Service and the Hoodland Senior Center in Welches, living in Rhododendron for nearly 30 years.

She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior in her 20s and followed Him the rest of her life (John 3:16). She loved her family and animals, rescuing many dogs and cats.

Lilli is survived by her three children: Wade Johnson, Lyn (Christopher) Scott, Benjamin (Lori) Sawyer; grandchildren, Ryan, Hannah (Josh), Stuart, Ainsley, Jack, Timothy, Annie, and great grandson, River.

Our family would be grateful for any donation made in honor of Lilli to the Hoodland Senior Center. P.O. Box 508 Welches, OR 97067 or hoodlandseniorcenter.org

in Hood to Coast. For runners, it's crucial to wear reflective gear, carry lights and stay alert, especially during night legs. Volunteers and race organizers will be stationed along the course to provide guidance and ensure safety protocols are followed. Community members can contribute to the safety and success of the event by being considerate and accommodating of the influx of participants. Whether you're a spectator, a local resident, or a passing traveler, your awareness and cooperation are vital. Let's all work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable Hood to Coast relay for everyone involved.

Hoodland Senior Center Rummage Sale and BBQ

By Brittany Kintigh

For The Mountain Times

August is shaping up to be an exciting month at the Hoodland Senior Center (HSC), with a lineup of events designed to engage the community and support

vital programs for local seniors.

Rummage Sale & Barbeque Fundraiser – August 2-3 Join us between 10am and 3pm on August 2nd and 3rd for a rummage sale and barbeque at Mt. Hood Lions Club (24730 E.

Woodsey Way Welches, OR 97067). This community event not only offers bargain hunters a chance to discover hidden treasures, but also plays a crucial role in supporting the center’s operations. Approximately 25% of HSC’s funding

relies on direct community financial support, making events like the Rummage Sale essential to sustaining services and activities for seniors in the Hoodland area.

Volunteer Opportunity: Bus Drivers Needed HSC is calling for volunteers, particularly those interested in becoming certified bus drivers. Expanding the volunteer driver pool will make it possible to add trips to the monthly calendar, such as transporting seniors to and from the Hoodland Farmers Market on Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. By volunteering as a bus driver, community members can directly contribute to the mobility and social engagement of local seniors, ensuring they have access to fresh produce and community connections.

Excursions in August: County and State Fair Trips

Looking to explore beyond Hoodland? HSC has organized two excit-

ing trips for August: County Fair Excursion – August 14th: Join HSC for a day of fun at the County Fair. For just $8, participants will enjoy transportation and admission, soaking in the sights and sounds of local festivities.

State Fair Adventure – August 27th: On August 27th, HSC will venture to the State Fair. This trip includes transportation and admission, providing seniors with an opportunity to experience the excitement of Oregon’s premier fairgrounds.

Spaces for these trips are limited, so inter -

ested individuals are encouraged to call soon to reserve their spot. For more information on how you can participate or contribute to these events, please contact Hoodland Senior Center at (503) 622-3331. These initiatives underscore HSC’s commitment to helping seniors live life to the fullest. Whether you’re looking to support the rummage sale, volunteer as a bus driver, or join in on upcoming excursions, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make a positive impact in the Hoodland community.

Hoodland Community Planning Organization

By Pat Erdenberger, Hoodland CPO

For The Mountain Times

The goal of the Hoodland Community Planning Organization (HCPO) is to bring County information to the Hoodland community and voice our community’s concerns and ideas to the County. HCPO is interested in hearing from all individuals within our area and from businesses that affect our mountain life.

The Hoodland CPO will have a speaker, Randy Ealy, Senior Manager in Local Government Affairs from Portland General

Electric at the August 1 st Community Meeting, 7:00 pm at the Church on the Mountain in Welches. Randy will be presenting some insights and information from PGE and taking community questions as well. We look forward to this talk and interaction. With the first hot

weather behind us, each CPO in the Mt Hood Corridor is looking forward to holding a joint meeting and receiving information from the County Disaster Management Office, implementing plans for fuel reduction, defensible space and important evacuation plans should they become necessary. This is a tall order for individuals and County Planners. No one knows when, where or how a wildfire will develop and planning is the first important step.

The Board of County Commissioners approved the updated Clackamas Community Wildfire Protection Plan on June 27, 2024. Hoodland is within the Wildland

Urban Interface (WUI) and the plan provides the groundwork for us to become engaged and provide support and input to guide the County.

The report can be found at https://www. clackmas.us/dm/ccwpp. html

Please take time to look through the Table of Contents for aspects of this work that are of personal interest.

The CPO has two open spots for Board Officers and in the vote held at the August 1st Community Meeting, the three remaining Board Officers will be voted on as well.

We’ve worked hard to develop more efficient use of all Board Members’ time by pars-

ing out the email, social media, publicity, speakers bureau, meeting minutes and treasurer tasks so that most positions will not require more than four to five hours per month when Community Meetings are held, and little to none when no meeting is planned.

You may contact us at hoodlandcpo@gmail. com if you have interest and want a description of duties for the two open positions, the information you need for your decision will be provided. Please consider offering your time and talent to the Hoodland Community Planning Organization. “It Takes a Village.”

College Housing NW and MHCC Welcome the Upcoming Opening of Gresham Project Turnkey Property

By MHCC

For The Mountain Times

College

Housing

Northwest, the student housing nonprofit created for students by students, is partnering with Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC). CHNW has a new student community opening in the Gresham area in the fall of 2024. Oregon college

students are experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity at all-time highs with some local colleges seeing homelessness among students up to 20%. Paying for housing is consistently the hardest part of attending college and students are excluded from many affordable housing sources.

“Graduation rates are much higher among students who receive housing when they need it. This makes sense — students are humans first, and it’s really hard to learn when you don’t have a safe place to sleep. It’s incredibly exciting that CHNW is supporting students and local colleges this way,” said Sara

Goldrick-Rab, Higher Education Sociologist and Senior Fellow at Education Northwest.

CHNW is uniquely positioned to help local colleges with student housing insecurity and has been making incredible strides over the past four years with the advent of the Affordable Rents for College Students (ARCS) program.

ARCS provides rent assistance and support to students referred by partners (New Avenues for Youth, Naya Family Center, Latino Network, Portland State University, Portland Community College, and Mt. Hood Community College).

The ARCS program is making real progress in addressing the local student housing crisis while supporting students in completing degree programs.

“Being in ARCS has given me hope for my future, without this

help I wouldn’t be engaged like I am nor thriving like I do with school now. Being able to have a place to lay my head at night has given me the power to keep fighting for my future in all aspects of life,” shared a current ARCS student on the impact and the support they have received since being a part of the program.

MHCC has been one of the ARCS program’s earliest partners and instrumental in its support and growth. The Project Turnkey property, the former Pony Soldier Inn, located at 1060 NE Cleveland Ave in Gresham, will impact in-need MHCC students in the Gresham area.

“Mt. Hood Community College is thrilled to be part of this transformative initiative with College Housing Northwest. As we witness the growing challenges of housing insecurity among our student

population, this partnership underscores our commitment to providing holistic support for our students’ success.

The Project Turnkey property offers a tangible solution to housing instability and fosters a sense of belonging and stability crucial for academic achievement.

“Together, we are building a brighter future for our students and our community,” Dr. Lisa Skari, President of MHCC said.

The Oregon Legislature granted CHNW $6.6M through Project Turnkey to purchase a hotel in Gresham, which is being renovated into 75 low and no-cost studios for student housing. CHNW, through a capital campaign, is looking to raise an additional $6M to help pay for renovation costs.

Wilderness Ambassadors Protecting Mt. Hood for 25 Years & Counting

By Benjamin Simpson

Mountain Times

The

Note: This article originally appeared in the August 2019 issue of The Mountain Times and has been updated.

For 25 years, the Wilderness Ambassadors, part of the Trailkeepers of Oregon Trail Ambassador Program, have helped educate the public on “leave no trace” principles and protected wilderness areas around Mount Hood.

On July 20, 2019, as the country celebrated the 50-year anniversary of the first human landing on the moon, Wilderness Ambassador Mike Mathews spent the day beyond the wilderness boundary of the Paradise Park that begins at Timberline Lodge. Mathews’ mission was to monitor trail usage and instruct visitors of policies that embody the “leave no trace” ethos of the 1964 Wilderness Act, enacted five years before man’s first steps on the lunar surface.

“Wilderness value is

determined by people enjoying and using it,” said Mathews.

Mathews greeted visitors from foreign states and countries as he continued his then 18th year of service as an interpretative agent in the wilderness areas of Mount Hood.

The volunteer-based Wilderness Ambassador program, formerly known as the Wilderness Stewards Program, was established in 1999 as a key component of the Wilderness Protection Plan, first implemented to address an increase in recreational usage of lands protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act and to preserve wilderness values in the Mount Hood, Salmon-Huckleberry, Hatfield and Badger wildernesses.

The Ambassador program’s roots stem from environmental impact surveys conducted by the U.S Forest Service that suggested recreational access in these areas needed to be limited to a fee-based permit system or monitored and instructed by a

volunteer-based ambassador program to avoid further degradation of existing wilderness areas. The program keeps access to the wilderness areas open to the public without the need for permitbased access.

“We’re all visitors,” Mathews said about his mission to inform hikers of low-impact recreational practices in wilderness zones.

Ambassadors patrol the trail systems and campsites and educate guests of environmentally beneficial practices to implement while in wilderness areas. Topics include garbage, human and animal waste disposal, fire prevention and additional “rampant wear” caused by traffic outside of designated camp and trail sites.

The Ambassadors monitor trail usage to ensure that visitors complete day-use permits for the wilderness areas. Additionally, Mathews noted that 90 percent of the fees from the Northwest Forest Pass returns to the district in which

the pass was issued. These fees are assigned to provide resources, from trail and campsite maintenance and public restrooms to trail systems according to usage patterns monitored by the permits.

“We’ve got to keep the trails happy,” Mathews stated. “It’s citizenship.”

The Ambassadors greet 6,000 people annually and hike a combined 2,000 miles of trail as a group each year. Ambassadors also check for campfires left smoldering overnight to prevent forest fires, provide first aid for hikers suffering from heatstroke, hypothermia and injuries, and act as liaisons with the forest service and other authorities in the event of illegal acts in the public wilderness. The main goal of the program is to educate the public of potential environmental impact, in addition to restoring damaged wilderness areas.

“We’re here to tell people how special these places are and how careful we have to be,” said

Wilderness Ambassador Janet Tschanz, who has been involved with the program since its inception.

Tschanz noted that over her 20 years with the program, she believes the Ambassadors have made an impact preventing camping close to rivers and lakes in the wilderness.

“When hikers camp too close they damage the water,” Tschanz said, citing Burnt and Mirror Lake as sites impacted by recreational use.

Both Ambassadors noted that continued public involvement and enthusiasm for the Wilderness Ambassador program is integral for future sustainable public recreation in the Mount Hood wilderness areas.

“Without [the ambassador program], life on the mountain would be much different,” Tschanz said. “We’d probably have to buy permits to access the wilderness.”

“We could always use more people,” Mathews said. “The more people volunteering the better.”

Training is required to participate as a Wilderness Ambassador. All volunteers must undergo job hazard analysis, safety training, radio use training and instruction on managing public encounters. First aid training is also offered to participants.

For more information about the program, including an application for participation, visit online at https:// www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ mthood/workingtogether/volunteering or https://www.wildstews. org/ (website currently under construction). The public is invited to email questions and applications to: norynerobinson@gmail. com. The Mount Hood Wilderness Ambassadors can be followed on Instagram at @mthoodwildernessstewards.

The 25 years of volunteer effort has allowed the forest service to keep recreational access to wilderness areas around the mountain open to the public.

The Legacy of Mt. Hood’s Steiner Cabins

By Benjamin Simpson

The Mountain Times

Note: This article originally appeared in the August 2018 issue of The Mountain Times and has been updated.

Henry Steiner didn’t imagine his cabins would last generations. Constructed around Mount Hood during the first half of the 20th century by the German master craftsman and his family, the cabins were intended as vacation homes for Portlanders that would last for 20 or 30 years before succumbing to the elements.

“[They] didn’t think the cabins would be there – they were trying to send people home with a paycheck,” said log cabin builder Mark Fritch, relaying his conversations with Henry’s son, John Steiner, about the construction of the acclaimed cabins, many of which were crafted during the hardships of the Great Depression. Fritch formed a friendship with John during John’s later years and worked to repair and maintain the family-built cabins.

Nestled on the banks of Henry Creek in Rhododendron, two Steiner cabins have recently seen dramatic restoration. One cabin has been thoroughly modernized as a contemporary family retreat while maintaining the classic details of Steiner craftsmanship. The other is in the midst of a lengthy renovation to return the cabin to its 1935 condition. Both cabins will be part of the 14th annual Steiner Cabin Tour on Saturday, Aug. 11. The tour

is conducted by the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum and is currently sold out.

Fritch said that John Steiner described to him how the scarcity of the era had led the family to employ resourceful building methods utilizing available materials in the surrounding land, with little thought of creating a lasting historical impact. Now, the nearly 100-year-old structures are praised for their artistic and skilled construction, have been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and stand as iconic examples of the Oregon Rustic Style architectural movement.

Two thoughtful restorations

Dan Taylor fell in love with Steiner cabins during college in the ’70s while staying at his friend Dan Kavanaugh’s family cabin. The two school friends ran power to an old outbuilding on the property they nicknamed “The Natural High” and used it as a summer hangout for their adventures on the mountain.

Years later when the opportunity to purchase a 1932 Steiner cabin down the street from his friend’s place came up, Taylor jumped on the opportunity, purchasing the cabin with his brother and sister. The vacation home came with a quirky mid-century remodel with orange shag carpet, lime green vinyl flooring and a stove with only three working burners. It served as a happy family getaway for many years.

After years of family use and with children growing up and going off to school, Dan and his wife Mary Kay

the other,” Jutras said about the extent of shifting that had occurred to the cabin.

The firs were laboriously excavated and removed before the cabin was leveled and placed on a new foundation. The foundation repairs revealed that the sill logs, as well as some vertical logs in the kitchen, were plagued with rot and had to be replaced.

Steiner, who used basaltic fieldstone to construct the fireplace.

The cabin had slowly settled over the past 80 years, causing the fireplace to tilt and eventually split and crack along the back. While leveling and reconstructing the cabin, Fritch discovered large scorch marks on the logs in the wall behind the fireplace.

found themselves the sole owners of the cabin. They embarked on an extensive restoration to modernize the cabin while retaining the original Steiner character with the aid of Fritch and Portland designer Rhoda Divers.

The rehabilitation involved plumbing and electrical updates and hefty structural repairs, including replacing rotting support logs in a corner of the house. The Steiner cabins were constructed without foundations and frequently developed rot in the sill logs on the ground level.

“We tried to match and maintain the integrity of the original look,” Taylor said while describing the intensive process of sanding and staining replacement pieces to match the existing logs after 80 years of exposure to the elements.

The Taylors pulled up the carpets and the vinyl flooring in the kitchen to reveal beautiful fir floors and stained the wood interior of the cabin to create a warm and inviting living space. Foundation rot in the kitchen posed another challenge and required enlisting a mill to source wood to match the old fir planks and cut new flooring. They discovered masonry constructed by John Steiner behind a hearth added years after original construction. They also restored the original windows, maintaining the signature Steiner red frames.

Other elements of the cabin have been brought into the modern era, including opening up the living space with a kitchen island with granite countertops, replacing the old three-

burner stove, restructuring of the bathrooms and adding space-efficient cabinetry to the mudroom. The rear deck has been expanded to flow down to the creek and add additional room for congregating, in concurrence with Henry Steiner’s intention that the stream would be a focal point for cabin life.

The end result is a home the family loves, one that maintains the comforting elements of a classic log cabin while adding modern elegance and convenience.

“It’s a cozy, fun home – it’s very enjoyable,” said Taylor about the finished cabin.

Further downstream lies George and Binnur Jutras’s 1935 Steiner cabin, also undergoing major rehabilitation. George discovered the cabin while on a mountaineering trip to climb Mount Hood and is determined to return the cabin to its historic state for use as a base camp for his climbing trips and explorations of the region.

The Jutras’s cabin had not been signifi cantly altered by previ ous owners and was in close-to -original condi tion when the family acquired it, although in need of major repair.

“It’s not just a log cabin – it’s a lot of history involved,” George said while describing his approach to the restoration. “I want to bring it back to the condition it was in after the last nail was driven.”

George is also work ing with Fritch to address structural issues the cabin faces. Two large firs towered over a corner of the cabin when purchased, and their roots caused the cabin to tilt at a precipitous angle.

The roof has been returned to cedar shake, and the Jutras family sourced materials from a dilapidated Steiner cabin on Hwy. 26 to replace five rotted-out windows with originals and provide replacement planks for the kitchen floor.

The cabin features many notable Steiner design elements including a sunburst gable, a snow-bent log bannister, doorknobs and curtain rods fashioned from gnarled tree roots and bay windows in a kitchen alcove opening onto the creek. It contains signature masonry work by John

“It was two or three large fires away from burning down,” Fritch stated.

With these issues resolved, the cabin is well on its way to returning to its original state. The Jutras have even procured a 1934 stove refurbished to use propane and a retrofitted 1930 refrigerator to painstakingly recreate the detail of the era.

“I want to make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time,” George said about his family’s project of transforming the historic Steiner cabin.

“If you put a ball on one end it would roll to

LEFT: Dan Taylor sits on the deck of his renovated Steiner Cabin in 2018, offering a more modern getaway.

ABOVE: The Jutra family’s Steiner Cabin renovations bring it back to when it was first built in 1935.

Photos by Benjamin Simpson.

County News

A Dahlia Festival of Color, Community and Culture

By Kelly Romo

Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of nature at the annual Dahlia Festival hosted by Swan Island Dahlias. This beloved event, featuring over 370 dahlia varieties, transforms the picturesque fields of Canby, Oregon, into a kaleidoscope of color and beauty. From early August to late September, visitors are invited to explore the stunning display gardens, stroll through expansive flower fields and partake in a variety of engaging activities on Wednesdays through Sundays. With free admission, live

music, local food carts and a unique gift shop, the Dahlia Festival offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Join them for a day of floral enchantment, community and joy as you celebrate the splendor of dahlias in full bloom. Hybridizing new dahlia varieties is a meticulous process at Swan Island. They let bees handle initial cross-pollination and then select seed pods from preferred varieties. Each year, they cultivate 15,000 seedlings, gradually narrowing them down to five to fifteen new varieties introduced annually. The selection criteria include long

stems, flower quality, and uniqueness. With over 370 dahlia varieties on display, festival-goers can discover new favorites. Look out for creatively named varieties like “Petal Faster,” “Tutu Much” and the striking red and yellow “Incrediball.” Each name adds a touch of whimsy to the vibrant blooms.

This year’s festival introduces the new and expanded gift shop that offers a wide range of local goods, from soaps and lotions to cookbooks and canned foods. Visitors can also find unique items for pets, gardening and babies, making it a specialty shop worth exploring.

Local vendors and musicians play a significant role in the festival, creating a lively atmosphere with carefully selected bands that ensure a diverse and enjoyable experience for weekend visitors. Be sure to check the event calendar for the lineup of bands and food carts during your visit. Plan to spend a few hours exploring to make the most of your time at the festival. Start with the display garden to see all the varieties in one place, then stroll through the fields. The koi pond is a favorite among children and those who appreciate the beauty of these fish. Enjoy the food carts, live music and gift shop. On weekends, bring a blanket for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by fields of flowers while you listen to music and savor

delicious food and drinks.

Swan Island Dahlias ensures accessibility for all visitors, with ample ADA parking, accessible restrooms and pathways. The level grounds and free entry make it an inviting destination for people of all ages and income levels.

Swan Island Dahlias is more than a farm; it’s where passion, history and community converge in a spectacular celebration of nature’s beauty. If you’re heading down the mountain into the valley, stop and visit the festival at 995 NW 22nd Ave. in Canby from August through September, open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Check the event calendar at www.dahlias.com to see the lineup of bands and vendors so you can join them and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of dahlias!

The Mountain Times

The Schloe family.

Dahlia’s Festival 2023. Photo by Natalie Kristeen.

Local Students Named to the 2023–2024 Spring Term President’s List at Oregon Institute of Technology

The following students have been named to the 2023-2024

Spring Term President’s List at Oregon Institute of Technology. Inclusion on the list requires a 3.70 grade-point average and above.

Nolan Allen of Damascus studies Biology-Health Sciences

• Adin Bartlett of Rhododendron studies

Professional Writing

Katie Dudrov of Damascus studies

Echocardiography

• Isaiah Ewing of Sandy studies Mechanical Engineering

Savannah Greeley of Boring studies Cybersecurity

• Lindsay Jensen of Damascus studies

Radiologic Science

Elycia King of Sandy studies Pre-Nursing Gen Study

• Shaylee Lutz of Sandy studies Radiologic Science

• Zander Ortega

of Sandy studies Mechanical Engineering

• Samuel Paul of Damascus studies Electrical Engineering

• Brooke Phillips of Boring studies Diagnostic Medical Sonography

• Eli Rajotte of Welches studies EMT - Paramedic

• Joseph Ten Eyck of Sandy studies Software Engineering

Tech

Tyler Thygesen of Sandy studies Radiologic Science

• Hallie Tryon of Damascus studies

EMT - Paramedic

• Brandon Whitten of Sandy studies

Mechanical Engineering

About Oregon Institute of Technology: Founded in Klamath Falls in 1947, Oregon Institute of Technol -

ogy is the premier polytechnic institution in Oregon. Offering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees, Oregon Tech has exceptional programs in engineering, health technologies, business, technology, communication, and applied sciences. Our programs prepare students to be effective participants in their professional, public, and international commu -

nities through applied, relevant learning and professional practice. Oregon Tech has a residential campus in Klamath Falls; an urban, industry-focused Portland-Metro campus in Wilsonville; an online campus; and offers degrees at Boeing Seattle and at other sites. Visit www. oit.edu to learn more about Oregon Institute of Technology.

Local Students Named to Linfield University Dean’s List

Linfield University named the following local students to the Spring 2024 Dean’s List:

• John Calder, a firstyear student from Sandy, Oregon (97055), majoring in nursing.

• Reid Gray, a firstyear student from Damascus, Oregon (97089), majoring in exercise science.

• Jadelyn Hendershott, a senior from Boring, Oregon (97009), majoring in nursing.

• Skylar McLeod, a first-year student from Damascus, Oregon (97089), majoring in mathematics.

• Nicholas Olsen, a junior from Rhododendron, Oregon (97049), majoring in computer science.

• Mikayla Wilson, a

first-year student from Boring, Oregon (97009), majoring in psychology.

• Victoria Yates, a recent graduate from Sandy, Oregon (97055), majoring in nursing.

The Dean’s List identifies undergraduate students who earned a GPA at least equivalent to a cum laude (3.65) while taking at

least graded 12 credits. It is computed following the posting of grades at the end of each semester. Congratulations to these students for their distinguished academic achievement!

Linfield University is an independent, nonprofit university with campuses in McMinnville and Portland, Oregon, as well an eCampus for online learning. Since 1858,

Linfield has connected a traditional liberal arts experience with practical education through 54 majors, including wine studies, sport management and nursing. Linfield also offers interdisciplinary master’s degrees in business, nursing and sports sciences. For five years running, U.S. News & World Report magazine has named Linfield one of the top liberal arts colleges in the nation when it comes to social mobility. Thirty-eight percent of Linfield students are first-generation college students, and 38% are U.S. students of color. Linfield competes in the NCAA Division III Northwest Conference. Learn more at www. linfield.edu.

Local Students Named to the 2023–2024 Spring Term Dean's List at Oregon Institute of Technology

The following students have been named to the 2023-2024 Spring Term dean's list at Oregon Institute of Technology. Inclusion on the list requires a 3.30 to 3.69 grade-point average.

• Davin Logan of

Sandy, studying Cybersecurity at Oregon Tech

• Jessica Misiuk of Damascus, studying Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Oregon Tech About Oregon Institute of Technology: Founded in Klamath Falls in 1947, Oregon Institute of Technology is the premier polytechnic institution in Oregon. Offering Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees,

Oregon Tech has exceptional programs in engineering, health technologies, business, technology, communication, and applied sciences. Our programs prepare students to be effective participants

Introducing a unique and charming real estate opportunity in the Rhododendron area. A 1935 US Forest Service cabin that has been relocated and transformed into a cozy complex. This picturesque setting offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and a serene environment for those seeking a mountain getaway. Located amidst lush surroundings, this boasts a wonderful forest wonderland. Step outside and take a leisurely walk meandering down to the nearby creek, where you can immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature. Inside the unit, you will find a cozy and inviting space. This intimate layout is perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable retreat in the mountains whether you are looking for a weekend escape or a year-round residence. Located just 12 miles from Government Camp, you are surrounded by the National Forest and all of what Mt Hood has to offer you, right at your doorstep. $83 covers water, sewer and garbage.

in their professional, public and international communities through applied, relevant learning and professional practice. Oregon Tech has a residential campus in Klamath Falls; an urban, industry-focused Portland Metro campus in Wilsonville; an online campus; and offers degrees at Boeing Seattle and at other sites. Visit www. oit.edu to learn more about Oregon Institute of Technology.

Highway 26 Crash Near Cherryville Claims Three Lives

Clackamas County, Ore. 21 July 24- On Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 1:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy-26, near milepost 32, in Clackamas County.

The operator of the BMW (M. Dorsett) and passenger, Claire Elise Kidd Dorsett (31) of Redmond (WA), were declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Volkswagen (female juvenile) suffered reported minor injures and was transported to a local medical center.

The operator of

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Volkswagen Tiguan, operated by a female juvenile, entered the eastbound lanes for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound BMW 540, operated by Matthew Dorsett (32) of Redmond (WA), head on. The BMW spun into the westbound lanes and was struck by a westbound Tesla T3, operated by Renee Ann Dejarnatt (40) of Portland.

Vote Now to Help Name Mascot

We’re down to the final three bear names for The Mountain Times new bear mascot, and we need your vote to decide the winner! Help us choose the perfect name by casting your vote online.

1. Huck L. Berry: A playful twist on a classic literary bear name, Huck L. Berry is perfect for an adventurous and spirited bear.

2. Hoodie: Cozy and cool, Hoodie brings to mind a bear that’s always ready for a cup of warm cocoa or a hike in the forest.

3. Scoop: Sharp and savvy, Scoop is the

perfect name for a bear with a nose for news and a knack for finding the juiciest stories.

Your vote matters! Make your voice heard and help us crown the winning bear name. Cast your vote at https://forms.gle/SZYugDmoEKDasdTY6 or scan the QR code below.

the Tesla (Dejarnatt) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to a local medical center.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation and no further information is available for release at this time.

OSP was assisted by Hoodland Fire and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

Photo by Joanne Bing, katu.com.