Nov 2014 the good life by The Good Life

COLD RIDE ON DEVIL’S BACKBONE Y EVENTS CALENDAR

WENATCHEE VALLEY’S

NUMBER ONE MAGAZINE

November 2014

in the flow on the yukon Fickle days, velvet nights

Open for fun and adventure

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Contents page 12

the ultimate car show in pebble beach

Features

canoeing the yukon

Nature isn’t a place to conquer — but where to be revitalized

too risky?

A couple of seniors gear up — and down — for a challenging loop ride in Oregon

16 riding the devil’s backbone

It’s a harsh ride in October. But why risk waiting when you never know what the next year will bring?

18 adventure in theater

What’s a runner doing on stage? Well, trying to dance like an Arabian princess for one thing

20 Following the oil boom

Wenatchee woman gets swept up into boom times in North Dakota — lots of jobs, high wages, but no camping in the highway medians

22 A wandering vacation

Lief and Mary Carlsen planned to bike Europe, but then moved to Plan B, then Plan C...

24 passing on family’s camping tradition

Hook up the fifth-wheel, it’s time to teach grandson about camping

26 Party hacienda

Kyle and Jan Mathison have built a view New Mexico-style home inspired by the castles of Europe — and then have opened it to friends from around the world

ART SKETCHES

n Painter Robert Wilson, page 36 n Author Theresa Monsey, page 41 Columns & Departments 31 June Darling: Get your beat on 32 Bonnie Orr: Eating pears 33 Pet Tales: A time for good Karma 34 The traveling doctor: When sleep rhythms go awry 36-42 Arts & Entertainment & a Dan McConnell cartoon 39 The night sky: Mercury in the morning 43 History: Nicknames in the Old West 46 Alex Saliby: A good Chardonnay — it’s about style November 2014 | The Good Life

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OPENING SHOT

Year 8, Number 11 November 2014 The Good Life is published by NCW Good Life, LLC, dba The Good Life 10 First Street, Suite 108 Wenatchee, WA 98801 PHONE: (509) 888-6527 EMAIL: editor@ncwgoodlife.com sales@ncwgoodlife.com ONLINE: www.ncwgoodlife.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/pages/ The-Good-Life Editor/Publisher, Mike Cassidy Contributors, Joel Lhamon, Lorna Rose-Hahn, Dave Weldy, Cindy Duncan, Phil Rasmussen, Jim Russell, Andy Dappen, Marlene and Kevin Farrell, Kelly Rolan, Lief Carlsen, Jimmy McGregor, Donna Cassidy, Bonnie Orr, Alex Saliby, Jim Brown, June Darling, Dan McConnell, Susan Lagsdin, Peter Lind and Rod Molzahn Advertising manager, Terry Smith Advertising sales, Lianne Taylor and Donna Cassidy Bookkeeping and circulation, Donna Cassidy Proofing, Dianne Cornell Ad design, Rick Conant TO SUBSCRIBE: For $25, ($30 out of state address) you can have 12 issues of The Good Life mailed to you or a friend. Send payment to: The Good Life 10 First Street, Suite 108 Wenatchee, WA 98801 For circulation questions, email: donna@ncwgoodlife.com BUY A COPY of The Good Life at Hastings, Safeway stores, Walgreens, Caffé Mela, Mike’s Meats at Pybus, Rhubarb Market, Martin’s Market Place (Cashmere) and A Book for All Seasons (Leavenworth)

Where have all the pioneers gone? By Joel Lhamon

have enjoyed photography ever since I was in high school. In college (late ‘60s and early ‘70s) a very good friend inspired me to keep taking pictures. One of his memorable insights: “One of the major differences between an amateur and a professional photographer is the size of the wastebasket.” In other words, take lots of pictures, and expect only a few good ones. This reflects the days

of photo paper and darkrooms, rather than today’s digital world. For him photography became a passion and a career. For me it is an enjoyable hobby, a way to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the world around me. This picture was taken in the dry farming wheat country east of Waterville, after the recent harvest. I imagine that the farming family that tried to carve out a living in this hardscrabble country ended up in the small community cemetery about a half mile from this abandoned home. Given the economic realities of today’s farming, I suspect that this land is just a small part of thousands of acres farmed by

ADVERTISING: For information about advertising in The Good Life, contact advertising at (509) 8886527, or sales@ncwgoodlife.com WRITE FOR THE GOOD LIFE: We welcome articles about people from Chelan and Douglas counties. Send your idea to Mike Cassidy at editor@ncwgoodlife.com

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one family, outfitted with GPSenabled John Deere equipment. My next planned photo adventures are to catch the fall colors in the Cascades, and then ocean sailing from Santa Barbara to Newport Beach, CA, where I hope to get up close and personal with whales and dolphins. Joel Lhamon is recently retired, having previously working in advertising in Wenatchee. Photography and tennis are two of his favorite pastimes.

On the cover

Cindy Duncan took this image of herself, in the front, and Jan Bullock, as the two Wenatchee women, plus Jan’s husband, Jeff, canoed rivers in the Yukon.

editor’s notes

MIKE CASSIDY

The fear and risk issue There is a wonderful story

from the swashbuckling days of the dot.com boom era when a company founder, running so low on cash he couldn’t make payroll, flies to Las Vegas with the money the company does have, bets it all on a single hand of blackjack, wins, flies home, pays everyone, and eventually turns the company around and personally becomes a multimillionaire. The moral being to be a great success, you have to take great risks. Well, yeah… I suppose. Of course, if he hadn’t won, he would be called something else: an embezzler and a fool. With risks comes… risks. A chance of failure. The greater the risk, the greater possibility of failure. A few people succeed like Bill Gates (who never had to resort to being the hero of the anecdote above), a lot of people become the folks Bill Gates ran over. Still, playing it safe is no fun because in the end, life is a losing game. Bob Dylan sang, “… he not busy being born is busy dying” — or to stick with the gambling metaphor from above, in life you’re betting against the house and the house always wins. That’s where measured risks come into play. In this issue, contributor Jim Russell tells of cycling a mountainous loop in Oregon — which may not seem all that risky, even though he tells of a stinging spill along side the road. But, he says in an email when submitting his story, “I wrote it to talk about accepting risk to enjoy an adventurous good life, which

it seems to me is exactly what your magazine is about.” Comfort with degrees of risk is different for different folks. Cindy Duncan has a backto-nature story this month, and wrote in an accompanying email: “I experienced some anxiety as I made the decision to go, mostly around my own level of fitness, strength and endurance. Having chosen my traveling companions well and having great confidence in their experience and expertise I also didn’t want to be that person that slowed everyone down. “The greater risk at age 62 is not going and missing this kind of opportunity... “And yes, I did experience some moments of ‘Oh my gosh what have I gotten into?’ as I was covered with bug bites, seeing the river turn to rolling white caps and the wind seeming to move the canoes sideways as well as navigating a challenging eddy or two. “And all of that fades into a ... sweet sense of accomplishment on the way home.” Another writer this month, Marlene Farrell, had to overcome not risk necessarily, but fear — as in stage fright when she took to the stage with her son. At the end, she was singing loudly and dancing boldly. And smiling broadly. Taking a risk, overcoming doubt … how sweet life is when you beat back your own fears. He or she who sits still takes a risk, too. Press on, enjoy The Good Life. — Mike November 2014 | The Good Life

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fun stuff a full LISTING of what to do begins ON PAGE 37

Let’s sing and dance and laugh and run for our dinner W

e have art, we have energetic music of Mexico, we have kids singing and dancing to the sounds of the ’60s — with an agenda to change the world — we have comedy, and cooking and then a chance to run lean before sitting down to a Thanksgiving dinner. In other words, there’s a full plate of activities this month around the local area. Here are a few chosen from this month’s What to Do listings:

Joyously decorated trees sparkle at the Numerica PAC.

Wolves charge into Two Rivers Art Gallery. Mariachi Extravaganza — Sebastien de La Cruz with

Mariachi Huenachi will perform. Authentic Mexican tacos will be served before the show in the lobby. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $10. Info: numericapac.org. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.

The Second City — Chicago’s

comedy world famous improv is opening up its vaults to celebrate 55 years of laughter. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $25/$29. Info: numericapac.org. 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 14. Chopped Cooking Competition — Chopped is a cooking

Hairspray — Wenatchee High competition based on the popuSchool Choral department perTwo Rivers Art Gallery — lar TV show on the Food Netforms. Wenatchee High School Cynthia Privoznik is the feawork. Distinguished local chefs Auditorium. Cost: $18, $15 stutured artist. Cynthia paints are given mystery ingredients dents. Tickets at Pak-It-Rite or wolves and domestic animal and pantry items from Pybus whs.wsd.wednet.edu. 7:30 p.m. portraits. Local wines, music by merchants … and a 30 minute on Thursday, Friday and SatMary Mendenhall on reeds151 andSouthurdays, time limit. Dishes will664-9063 be judged 11/13-15, 11/20-22, plus 2· (509) Worthen Street, Suite 201 664-9063 · (800) complimentary refreshments. based on taste, presentation and p.m. matinees&on Saturday, D.A. Davidson Co. memberNov. SIPC · www.dadavidson.com 102 N Columbia, Wenatchee. originality of meal. Judging is 15 and 22. Cost: free. 5 - 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. by a panel of local celebrities. 7.

Wenatchee Office:

151 South Worthen Street, Suite 201 (509) 664-9063 (800) 664-9063 www.dadavidson.com D.A. Davidson & Co. member SIPC

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Come watch. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15. Festival of Trees — Large, beautifully embellished Christmas trees will decorate the Numerica PAC’s lobby, along with mini-trees, wreaths and a Festival Land of local vendors. Online silent auction 11/8-23 at festivaloftrees2014.auction-bid. org. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 20-22. Turkey on the Run — 12k, 5k

and kids race. Start and finish at Rotary Park on Western Ave. Info: runwenatchee.com. 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27.

bucket list

The South Rim as seen from the Hermit Creek Trail, taken during Nathan’s and Lorna’s descent.

Out of step, but then, in sync and set up camp. My goal was a more relaxed pace with time for pictures and breaks. y then-boyfriend, now-husband, We separated early on and spent most Nathan, and I backpacked the South Rim of the descent hiking on our own. of the Grand Canyon in March a few years There is nothing like hiking alone for ago. six hours in the Grand Canyon to give you We hiked the Hermit Creek Trail and solitude. spent the night on the Canyon floor. As We reunited at the bottom, my having you can imagine, the scenery was amazarrived several hours after him (and not ing. without grumbling). The trail was difficult and proved to The next morning as we departed for be a challenge for us, a couple who had the grueling climb out, we vowed to stick met just a year earlier. This was our first together and maintain a moderate pace. big hike together, and as such, we were We ascended in just eight hours. not completely familiar with each other’s What a feeling of accomplishment. pace, nor had we communicated our goals And, we got engaged the next month. for the trip. At his six-foot-two to my five-foot-five, Lorna Rose-Hahn is a freelance writer, CPR and he was the faster hiker. His goal was, as it first aid instructor, and mother to her 20-month old son. turned out, to get to the bottom quickly

By Lorna Rose-Hahn

November 2014 | The Good Life

Nathan and Lorna: Their first big hike together.

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bucket list

Chicago, as seen from the top of the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower.

Reaching for high fruit By Dave Weldy

hen I was 13 years old and living in the San Francisco Bay area, my folks took me to the Seattle World’s Fair. The highlight for me was going up the Space Needle. Ever since then I have wanted to go up tall buildings. While living in Seattle, my wife, Mary, and I went up the Columbia Tower. On our 40th wedding anniversary we went up the Eiffel Tower. Now, we have checked off two more bucket list things to do. In March we went to the top of the Sears Tower in Chicago (a 108-story skyscraper now known as the Willis Tower). And early in October we took the Palm Springs Tram up 8,500 feet. What a ride. Of course not all our bucket list items are about tall, some are big like the Grand Canyon. We also checked off Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. One we haven’t checked off yet is Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota — with the side attraction being Mount Rushmore. Onward and upward! East Wenatchee residents Dave and Mary Weldy are the owners of the Culinary Apple in downtown Chelan.

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Riding up 8,500 feet in the Palm Springs Tram.

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Moose and beaver were two of the river denizens whose paths crossed with the canoe adventures in the Yukon.

Canoeing the Yukon For a mental breath of fresh air

By Cindy Duncan

he early non-native North American attitude of the wilderness was an attitude that saw the wilderness as something that needed to be tamed — a place to fear, filled with wickedness and threatening spirits; a barrier to human achievement and lasting success. However, around the mid-19th Century a new psyche began to emerge that pushed against the hostile imagery of an untamed wilderness. This emerging mind-set viewed the wilderness as a place to seek solace; a place that can bring clarity to the muddy waters of the mind created by a life spent in a fast pace modern society. Naturalist John Muir wrote, “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees…” With this quote of John Muir and other nature-friendly writers on my mind, and my need to just get away and invigorate, rejuvenate or revitalize (you pick the word) both my body and mind I accepted an invitation this summer from friends Jan and Jeff Bull-

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Nights at a camp spot, where the only human-made sound is the crackling of a cook fire.

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Canoeing the Yukon }}} Continued from previous page ock from Wenatchee to spend 11 days canoeing 200 miles in the Yukon Territory on the Teslin and Yukon rivers from Johnsons Crossing to Carmacks. Four years earlier I spent two weeks with Jan and Jeff canoeing 260 miles of the Yukon River from Carmacks to Dawson City, so I was excited at having the opportunity to canoe with them again even though I knew the trip, at times, would be difficult. As I learned on our last canoeing trip the difficulty level is directly linked to the weather and in direct proportion to mosquito mass. However, one of the advantages of going with Jan and Jeff is being able to rely on their years of wilderness travel experience to make even the most difficult seem not so bad (once you’re home). To paraphrase a writer whose name I can’t remember “some people view hardship as something to avoid; instead you should view hardship as the spice of life.” On this trip, because we had wind and rain every day, this became my mantra. I should also say that we had sun every day as well. This is part of the beauty of traveling this far north during the summer months, the days are long (the sun never truly sets) which is why the Yukon is known as “the land of the midnight sun.”

cravings for a real home cooked meal, Because of these how tired they long days you got of rehydrated frequently have all meals. types of weather My experience in a single day, could not have been from severe wind more different. and rain to gloriWith many years ous blue skies and of experience, Jan a warm summer can pack meals for Yukon sun. Usuan extended canoe ally, as the day trip for any numcontinues into ber of people and night the wind and provide culinary rain die off and cuisine that makes the long shadows me wish for a “river created by a low meal” once I am but never setting home. sun punctuate our Things like campsite. cabbage, carrots, During this time apples and oranges of day the air is can stay crisp and Another day of dancing to the ever-changing tune of the river. like velvet, soft fresh for many days and warm against using a wet cloth your skin and the only sound a spot to fish), have a floating soaked in cold river water as you here is from a crackling lunch, float some more, look for a refrigerant. A typical dinner fire soon to be used to cook the the next camp, make dinner, eat, might include lasagna or casevening meal. sit around the camp fire with a serole or fresh fish straight from Nights of velvet air, days glass of wine, talk, climb into the river to the Dutch oven or of wind, rain and sun, long bed. frying pan. stretches of softly flowing river Pretty soon, as you get into the To top it off deserts: cookies, water that makes the gentlest river’s rhythm, the days start to brownies and cake all cooked in of sounds as your canoe glides flow, one into the other. the same couple Dutch ovens. across its surface and drips drain Jan refers to it as river time, After the first trip I actually from your canoe paddle with which means you lose track of bought a Dutch oven and used each stroke. time. You don’t look at a watch; it in the middle of winter in the It puts you in a trance. you don’t look in a mirror, you back yard. Your day becomes a dance; don’t plan your day, you just During our 11-day excursion breakfast and a slow cup of move with the pace and rhythm we saw several porcupines, beacoffee in the prolonged mornof the river. vers, bears, moose, eagles, loons, ing light, then you break camp, When I have talked with other kingfishers and many types of pack the boats, float and explore people who have been out on ducks, who crossed paths with the river’s congruencies and long canoe trips many meneach other and us. We watched backwaters (i.e. Jeff looking for tioned how they had developed a seagull and an eagle in midair

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As I identify and leave behind the 24/7 tether to text, email, phone and business of the workday it feels like shedding layers of protective clothing. combat for several minutes until finally the seagull drove the eagle out of its nesting area. It is easy to lose yourself here amongst the encounters with wildlife, changing landscapes, and ever changing weather. The texture of the river even changes. Where the margins of the river close in on you to form canyon walls the river piles up onto itself, different layers of water each piled on top of the other. The layers of water pull and push at each other creating boils and whirlpools that texture the water’s surface and heave your canoe with a seeming unending echo from a mysterious and unseen riverbed below. In other sections, the river margins widen to form a slow moving lake. Water texture in these moving lakes is smooth and shiny like a mirror. However, this mirror is easily shattered by the swimming motion of a passing beaver, muskrat, duck or any number of

Delicious and healthy meals were cooked in Dutch ovens over the fire.

other animals who use this river highway. Weather too breaks the surface of the river mirror. Often in the quiet sections of the river I would look downstream and watch the texture of the mirror change as a wind or rain storm worked its way toward us. I learned to see this change in texture as a warning signal (at times a very brief warning signal) and that it was time to put on waterproof and wind clothing. It seemed I was constantly pulling on or off foul weather gear over my shorts and t-shirt. When the river mirror remains unbroken and the water remains still and calm the river seamlessly reflects the sky, making it difficult to know where the river ends and the sky begins. At other times the river reflects the colors of the canyon walls and vegetation with shades of light

November 2014 | The Good Life

green to deep forest green while giving an illusion of thickness and density that could not be water. When rain drops begin to fall the water shimmers with a new energy transformed when drops become larger and each one seems to land and bounce off the surface like children on a trampoline. As the water intensifies, my focus shifts from observing the novelty to staying warm and noticing how quickly the canoe is taking on water. Often the river allows for reflection time to ask and answer questions; what rocks am I carrying? What rocks can I put down and leave here? As I identify and leave behind the 24/7 tether to text, email, phone and business of the workday it feels like shedding layers of protective clothing. The pat-

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tern of looking for camp, making camp, building fire, cooking, cleaning, purifying water, repacking the canoe and paddling feels somehow more real than any other days lived. In her book of essays, River Walking, Kathleen Dean Morris wrote, “Human beings have simple needs — to eat, to drink, to nest, to have children and keep them safe. We play out the satisfaction of those needs with complex equipment and long excursions to wild places, where we spend the end of each day happily engaging in homemaking. The greater the challenge, the greater the comfort when we overcome that challenge.” I feel fortunate to have friends who are competent canoeists and back country travelers as I continue to travel off the beaten path to places where my day is simplified to when and where do you want to make camp. A camp that is home, where you can feel safe and warm and as John Muir said a place where “cares drop away like Autumn leaves.” Cindy Duncan is the Assistant Superintendent for Academic Achievement North Central Educational Service District. She has lived in Wenatchee for 14 years and is a mother and grandmother of four who she delights in sharing her love of the outdoors with whenever possible.

A wild Porsche 911 turbo gets admiring looks.

Let’s go surfing in an Austin-Healey Sprite — Longboard pale ale included.

Automobile heaven in Monterey By Phil Rasmussen

veryone has heard of Pebble Beach. The northern California community and its famous golf course get lots of coverage. But for car collectors and enthusiasts, Pebble Beach’s annual Concours d’Elegance in August is also THE ultimate car show. It is renown for its best-in-theworld display of automobiles and for the efforts (and money no doubt) expended by their owners to win “Best of Class.” Over the past several years, the communities surrounding Pebble Beach have embraced this automotive attraction and have expanded it into a week long extravaganza that includes shows, judged concourses, historic races, car club meets, and at least five collector car auctions. It all began this year in Carmel-by-the-Sea on a Tuesday with the Concourse on the

A Hispano-Suiza at Pebble Beach — automobiles can be art.

Avenue. That’s Ocean Avenue, which is closed for six blocks and lined with four rows of cars of every variety. I say “every,” but that is not quite accurate. The whole week had a definite “Euro” feel to it, with American muscle and classics lightly represented and street rods practically absent... the exception being a single ’35 Ford roadster…. with a Ferrari V-12 engine (that’s just wrong)! This free event was open to any registrant and was a great opportunity to talk to the car owners about their cars and

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their experiences with them. On Wednesday, it was Seaside’s turn, hosting the Little Car Show. The cars on display were all... well, small. We’re talking MG Midgets, Austin-Healey Sprites, BMW Isettas, Messerschmitts (yes, from the folks that brought you the ME-109), and others. The owners and onlookers at this one had a great time, some hamming it up in costumes emphasizing the unique nature of their vehicles. I should point out that by Thursday, my spouse… a car

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lover but impatient under even ideal conditions… was already starting to experience automotive overload. This is apparently not an unusual reaction to car week. But thankfully there is a lot to see in Monterey and this was a good time to take in the Aquarium, 17-mile drive, Cannery Row and to take a walk on the beach. Friday was Porsche Day for us. The Porsche Club of America sponsored a “Werks Reunion” at Rancho Canada Golf Club with well over 500 owner Porsches from around the country as well

may have been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My advice for anyone thinking of going in the future is to plan ahead. Make your hotel reservations now, and watch the Monterey city website for events and ticket information as some events may have limited numbers of tickets. You should expect slow traffic between events and difficulty parking. And choose your events carefully as it is not possible to do everything! You’ll be rewarded with a “car fix” which should last for some time.

The author’s favorite car of the week: 1939 Jaguar “SS” (the name “SS” was dropped post war for obvious reasons).

as a factory museum contribution or two. Jerry Seinfeld is a long-time Porschephile and offered two of his collection for viewing, one of which is the last 356 produced that had served as a Dutch police car. While we were absorbing Porsche vibes, “Legends of the Autobahn” was in progress at the Nicklaus Golf Club. This event was sponsored by the Mercedes, Audi and BMW clubs. And at the same time, the “Rolex Festorics,” three days of historic racing was in progress at nearby Laguna Seca Park. We fully intended to take it all in, but simply found it impossible to be everywhere. While I am not very familiar with the Italian brands, I have to say that one of the best-organized events we attended was the Concorso Italiano on Saturday held at the Black Horse Golf Course. This ticketed event hosted entrants from Ferrari, Fiat, Alfa-Romeo, Lamborghini, DeTomaso, Masserati and Iso. The awards ceremony was an informal one held at mid-day. The winners of each marque were driven to the grandstand and their owners introduced and interviewed about their experience restoring and driving their machines.

For you Velocity Channel fans, some familiar faces were present: Keith Martin, Wayne Carini and Barry Maguire all made appearances. And of course the Italian cars were works of art with intoxicating sounds to match. And then the capstone on Sunday: The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. What started out as a frustrating quest for parking was rewarded with a display of the most gorgeous cars in the world on the fairway of the world’s most famous golf course. This was a special emphasis year for Ruxton and Masserati, and the best examples were present as well as Cadillacs, Duesenbergs, Cords and many other beauties. If you admired the cars in The Great Gatsby, you would have enjoyed these machines and their sometimes period-costumed owners. The tickets were expensive, the crowds huge and the parking difficult, but the cars were perfection and the venue one of the most beautiful spots in the country. In fact, as a frustrated ex-golfer, I am now convinced that the highest and best use for a golf course is as a venue for displaying automotive history. For us, Monterey Car Week November 2014 | The Good Life

Raz retired from a 36-year career with Alcoa. He is a member of Wenatchee Rotary Club and a Trustee for Wenatchee Valley College. He enjoys rebuilding his ‘54 Chris Craft (now in its seventh year and FINALLY nearing completion) and messing with cars. He likes most classic sports cars though his current focus is Porsches. His spouse Lovelyn shares his love of cars for up to four hours at a time.

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Risk vs. ride Accepting the Challenges and Risks of a bike ride on Metolius River loop By Jim Russell

newspaper article enticed us into a bike ride on the newly dedicated Metolius River Loops, a little northwest of Bend, OR. The Oregon Park’s Scenic Bikeway website highlights 10 scenic bike trails with descriptions, maps, distances, degrees of difficulty, elevations, cue sheets and details for parking. The Metolius loops were rated easy to moderate although one was moderate to difficult. I emailed friends Gail Butler and Les Schell in Camp Sherman at the headwaters of the Metolius, and they welcomed the idea of a joint ride. We scheduled Sept. 9 to 12 anticipating central Oregon sunshine at 3,000-foot elevations with 36-degree nights and 73-degree afternoons. We arrived at Camp Sherman 12 miles north of Sisters by driving into the shadows of Ponderosa Pines with salmon pink

Riders cross a bridge on one of the Metolius River loop rides. Photo provided by Oregon State Parks and Recreation

bark plates and fire blackened crevices. Controlled burns had cleared underbrush so we could see deep into the forest with sage, faded vine maples, light greens and brown grasses. Les studied the maps of the trails next to a radio emergency squawk box. He retired as Captain of the Camp Sherman Volunteer Fire Brigade, although he and Gail are first responders for wildfire and search and rescue teams. He’s fought forest fires along these trails. He warned us the moderate to difficult 20-mile loop from their house down to the Lower Bridge campground would be a steep return up long hills. “Gail and I won’t make it,” he said. They ride smaller off-road dirt

We rode uphill to Oregon Route 14 and began a five-mile descent to the campground with my brakes squealing. bikes with tires that would make the pedaling harder. Karen and I ride road bikes with 21 gear speeds, which give us the lowest gears with torque to pedal up steep grades and higher gears to pick up speeds on flat or downhill grades. With 21-speed bikes, we were optimistic we could

climb the hills. Plus, she takes bicycle-spin classes and we’ve done several multi-day rides. Les drove their pickup to the bridge at the Lower Bridge campground for their return and I followed in our car to bring them back to the start of the bike ride. The downhill drive along the swift Metolius was deeper and longer than I expected. Doubt grew. Karen struggles with a hip that increasingly insists it be replaced. I struggle for breath with medications, supplements and a pacemaker that tamp down my healing heart and control my A-fib with blood thinner. Was this a wise way to live the good life? >> RANDOM QUOTE

To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with. Mark Twain 14

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Am I going to make this? Am I crazy? No, I could do this. Karen was undeterred. We started on paved streets winding through Metolius Meadows development with western ranch vacation homes tucked behind evergreen bushes and natural grasses underneath mature pines. On that quiet Wednesday morning paved roads cut through the forest and curved downhill past the country store in Camp Sherman and half empty campgrounds mostly screening trailers and campers. Several fly fishermen cast green lines shimmering in sunbeams slipping onto the river. The pure cold spring water switched between green, aqua-marine and blue as it flowed downhill. We rode uphill to Oregon Route 14 and began a five-mile descent to the campground with my brakes squealing. My rules to avoid a fatal head injury target an average of 10 miles per hour with an upper limit of 15. At times I wonder if I’m foolhardy, but I feel in control at those speeds and believe I can avoid danger. I want a life to enjoy. Gail is gleeful as she coasts past Karen and me. I worry about her. The road arced deeper downward after minor rises. I reminded myself I have eight gears below ninth gear, which I rarely go below. Finally the arcs are so deep and long I permit myself to use the first eight gears if I need them on the way back from the Lower Bridge campground. I practice the techniques Karen passes on to me from her spin class: push down on the pedals in down strokes and lift up on my pedal-baskets on upstrokes to double the power. I focused on one leg and then the other, then the down strokes,

then the upstrokes. The rhythm of each cycle improved on small climbs and suddenly I was headed down again. We arrived at the campground after the steepest hill we’d ridden. It’d be a hard re-start. After lunch at the almost empty campground, Gail and Les agreed to wait halfway up the road at the Wild Rivers Fish Hatchery in case we wanted a ride. It’s Gail’s favorite view of the river because the water is bright blue before it hits the rapids and turns to white froth. Karen headed straight up the hill methodically. I stood on the pedal and swung my right leg over the seat but my bike went sideways across the road until I jumped off my seat and straddled the bar. I was still in ninth gear, way too high to start up a hill. Karen disappeared around the bend. I re-started up in second gear. I wove back and forth on my side of the road to build up speed and pulled over to the right side as Les and Gail passed by. I was near the edge of the road and slipped into the gravel on the shoulder. I turned my wheel to get back on the road but my wheels slipped when they hit the edge and I went down on my left forearm and hand. It stung but I was going slowly. Les and Gail stopped but I waved them on. Am I going to make this? Am I crazy? No, I could do this. I wasn’t short of breath. My heart wasn’t racing. The road flattened. Karen steadily pulled farther ahead. I built up speed, appreciating how helpful these lower gears were. Reaching the fish hatchery, we took a break for Les, Gail, Karen and I to walk down to the river, which was beautiful in the late summer afternoon. We told Les and Gail that Karen and I weren’t done yet — and that we would rendezvous at a country store in Camp Sherman. Karen again charged ahead of me until I was relieved to see her taking a break. I slowed to join her but she said, “Keep goNovember 2014 | The Good Life

ing. I don’t want to break your momentum.” I wanted to break my momentum — but as told, I kept pedaling. She had been too hot and took off her jacket. Getting back on her bike, she passed me once again. Progress was steady. I’d make it. I sat on the back of the seat and pushed down and pulled up. The ride was exhilarating. It was worth the risk. At the store we relaxed in shade with ice cream bars. People drifted in to pick up their mail at the post office. Karen said she was pleased she could keep the pedals going around by gearing down. I asked her which one she used, wondering if she dropped into gear one. She humbled me again.

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Karen and Jim Russell retired to Wenatchee in 2001 to enjoy the outdoor recreation and the performing arts in the region. Karen was a computer network consultant and Jim was in education administration and real estate investments.

“Oh, I was in eighth gear. I never go below eighth.” She is in such better shape than I am. Nevertheless, each ride in the good life is a blessing, especially as they get more challenging.

Devil’s Backbone — when hell freezes over It’s A harsh ride in october But why risk waiting when you never know what next year will bring? by Andy Dappen

he ridge trails forming a big fishhook across Devil’s Backbone and down Pot Peak have gained prestige as one of the better mountain bike rides in the state. When I recently read this was a better route than some rides I already knew like Devil’s Gulch (local), Sun Top (a west side ride), and Corral Pass (another west side ride), I knew it was time to get after it. Off I went on a late-October Sunday. Even though wind, rain and snow were all forecasted — this looked to be the season’s last chance to get “The Backbone” under the belt. And why risk waiting when you never know what the next year will bring? Maybe in six months you’re dead, or falling apart physically, or trading the mountain bike in for an X-box. Best to seize the moment. So off I went, leaving my car at the end of pavement 2.5 miles up Road 5900. I pedaled upward, then upward some more, and then upward some more. The wind and the weather were cold, too cold really. On went the wind shell; then the balaclava. Sweat poured out of me and yet I was cold — so cold I was loathe to stop for food and water. I didn’t analyze my deterioration because… well, because I was deteriorating! Ten miles into the uphill grind, the hamstrings were cramped and my energy had tanked. I needed to eat... and drink… and rest, but it was too cold and my sweat would freeze. Which is when fire seemed like necessary company. A fire was made and close to it I

Andy sits close to a fire he made to warm up before continuing on.

sat, eating… and drinking… and resting. An hour later, I was back in the saddle rolling downhill toward the car. Then quitter’s remorse struck. “You don’t want to go through Hell again just to get back to this spot?” I thought. “Why turn tail now?” Fighting against the part of me that was showing a lick of sense, the bike turned around all by itself and enslaved me to the task of pedaling uphill again. At the Devil’s Backbone Trailhead, almost 13 miles into this misadventure, Hell was frozen over. The ground was ice hard and a few inches of snow coated the path climbing higher. Anything with a shady exposure above the 6,400-foot level was not be ridable. That | The Good Life

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would make the necessary 5.75-mile traverse along the crest of the Devil’s Backbone Trail to access the Pot Peak Trail both long and miserable. It would also see me making that celebrated descent of the Pot Peak Trail in the dark. The saving grace about the Devil’s Backbone, however, is the number of possible loops. On the Lake Chelan side of The Backbone alone, the loop descending the Pot Peak Trail (Trail 1266) is the medium-long option (29 miles). The complete traverse of The Backbone to Stormy Mountain with a nontechnical descent of Road 8410 is the long loop (42 miles). And the drop down Trail 1265 to North Twenty-Five Mile Creek is the short loop (24 to 27 miles depending on the

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Total darkness would envelope me in 15 minutes but, with only three downhill miles to go before hitting the road near the car, I was laughing at the Devil. choices made). I was here, I had a headlamp, and the short loop would get me out of the snow without traversing far along the snowy spine of the Backbone, so try it I would. Soon I was both hiking and biking over Crescent Hill (6,750 feet). Then, with feet stuck out like scarecrow legs to keep the bike from flopping down sideways, I rolled downhill through pockets of snow. The snow coating the trail soon disappeared and was replaced by the amusements of sugary sand, baby-head cobbles, or the joyful combination of the two mixed together. Meanwhile thickets of buckbrush slapped at the face and attacked the wheel spokes. And then there were the switchbacks that were many in number and tighter than a skier’s kick turn. It was marginal riding from the point-of-view of flow yet stimulating from the point-of-

Before Hell froze over, the autumn conditions leading up to the Devil’s Backbone produced some roadside flames.

view staying alive. Far lower, I felt Fate and the good fortune she brought riding in the saddle behind me, her arms clamped firmly around my waist. Seven lucky miles had rolled under my tires and here I was alive and well at an intersection with the North TwentyFive Mile Creek Trail (Trail 1264) heading downhill and a connector to the Lone Peak Trailhead heading uphill to the left. Total darkness would envelope me in 15 minutes but, with only three downhill miles to go

November 2014 | The Good Life

before hitting the road near the car, I was laughing at the Devil. Downward I went. Strangely, signs of a maintained trail quickly disappeared. Suddenly I was dragging the bike over one fallen log, then another and then another still. Before long in the quickly dimming light, I couldn’t even tell if any trail, unmaintained or not, existed. The tinkling tune of the Twilight Zone permeated the brain. In the near darkness a sixthsense signaled I was toppling

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through a malevolent portal. Pushing three miles through the Twilight Zone — or into the Devil’s Triangle — might be a journey into dimensional (or dementianal?) oblivion. Fate’s arms were no longer clamped around my waist in partnership; instead, her palms were pushing persistently on my back. Neck hairs tingled as I dug out the headlamp. With that blessed lamp glowing, however, whatever maliciousness lured me lower lurked just outside of the light’s yellow halo. Carefully I retraced my way out of the trap and at the trail intersection between being and oblivion, I took the left on an oh-so unpleasant uphill path. A steady rain was falling now. I tried to ride the trail leading to the road system that could get me home, but the spirits of the night worked against me. Sometimes it was the steepness, sometimes it was the sand, and sometimes it was a face shot of “bucking frush” that knocked me off the bike. In the end, on a ride intended to be one of the best in the state, I pushed the bike out of a Hellhole along a mile of trail that lasted an eternity. Details: For a detailed topographic map and the written guidebook information needed to complete this ride (maybe in warmer season?), see the Devil’s Backbone entry in the online mountain-biking guidebook at WenatcheeOutdoors.org (http:// www.justgetout.net/Wenatchee/ pages/page/?pgid=87)

An adventure of a theatrical nature for a mom and her son By Marlene Farrell

photo of four genies flashes on the screen behind the stage at Snowy Owl. We sidle out to mimic the photo. Arabian music, softly at first, winds its way through the hall. My arms curl around each other like snakes. Our dancing is subtle, from little joints. If only my wrists and neck had extra joints so they could roll like rippling silk. With a sultry stare we begin to dance across the stage. But wait! That’s me and three other moms out there. We signed up for Amberleaf Theatre because our children are involved. I wasn’t seeking attention but now eyes are on us, and I’m awash in the power and vulnerability of the moment. Amberleaf Theatre, a Leavenworth tradition celebrating 50 years, has always been about amateurs. It provides an opportunity for anybody, young or old, to fulfill that secret desire to be on stage. The plays are lighthearted and funny, so we learn to brush aside inhibitions and “go big” and “ham it up,” as director Briar Hoper reminds us. My 9-year-old son, Quentin, and I decided to try Amberleaf together. Quentin has always seemed a natural at acting, with confidence, silliness, and a beautiful singing voice. But he shied away from last year’s school play and its audition. In Amberleaf, which has no auditions, he has grown into his

roles. He gets to act the villain and the vampire and the mischievous kid. If I were to ask Quentin to try something new, I also needed to be willing. My last acting stint was Oliver Twist in middle school. I expected my reintroduction to the stage would be reciting lines, trusting my memory. But I don’t have one of the speaking roles, so my part in Amberleaf consists of dancing and singing. This reality gradually dawned on me, and, thankfully, my courage grew to meet it. We’re both in several skits, though only two together. Quentin knows what I am going through in the Arabian scene. And I know what he’s feeling when he jumps on stage soon after the show starts. Quentin admitted to stage fright and said, “During the shows I’ll just pretend it’s another dress rehearsal.” As rehearsals progressed, we started to take our job more seriously. People were going to pay to see us, so we better give them something worth watching. For my part, I sang out, forgetting the less-than-dulcet quality of my voice. And I am a runner, not a dancer. Running requires no choreography or grace. But I know how to practice something over and over. At first we rehearsed in front of large mirrors and I averted my eyes. But with practice the movements became second nature, and I converted my running energy into lively, if

| The Good Life

The villain Quentin Farrell is about to run a train over a girl on the tracks, much to the dismay of a bystander.

not perfect, dancing. We are in good hands with writer/director Briar Hoper. She knows just how much effort is needed to pull off a production. Working with about 25 adults and kids for Amberleaf comes naturally, given Briar’s

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| November 2014

background. She runs Edelweiss Dance Academie, which presents the Nutcracker and a spring recital every year. She shares the stage with the Eclectics singing group and starred in the early September Icicle Arts production of Midsummer Night’s

It is not about me facing my fears on the road alone. It’s about creating something together, giving this gift to the audience...

Marlene Farrell, far left, and three other moms attempt to ripple to Arabian music. Photo by Kevin Farrell

Dream. We had five hours of rehearsal and our first run-through the day after her two shows of Midsummer Night’s Dream. We lounged between scenes, but Briar directed relentlessly, always a step ahead, reminding us to pivot or to hold a certain end pose. I never saw her even drink a sip of water. I realized that Briar was a theater pro and there was this gulf between her and most of us. Her patience and willingness to share her knowledge inspired me. Why does she waste her time with a bunch of beginners? It’s not a wasted effort to Briar. “I always loved being a part of Amberleaf when I was younger. I liked the feeling of ownership you have in a show that you have not only participated in but also helped bring together in other

ways. I wanted that to be available to everyone who wants to do it. As a parent of young children who are now involved in the show I also appreciate being able to do something fun and theatrical with them.” Vania Winters, another first time adult actress, was inspired to do her best thanks to Briar’s leadership. “She is so calm, focused, and confident as a director. No doubt she is the best as a choreographer. But what really warms my heart is the confidence she has in every one of us!” Quentin and I met lots of new people through Amberleaf. This is a different crowd than the runners and skiers we hang out with. The cast grows cohesive through this joint undertaking. It shows as we clap for each other’s little successes amidst a lot of floundering at early runthroughs. The teenagers, mostly stage veterans, cheered for us grown-ups, rather than rolling their eyes in embarrassment. Vania said, “I am terrified that I am going to make a fool of myself. My daughter, on the other hand, is a super confident dancer and loves to be in the limelight. This is my opportunity to give her an example of how we should face our fears at any age, in any situation.” Rose Babiar, a mom of a first grader, said, “I am fearful that I won’t remember the dances and songs. (My daughter) Sophie is afraid of having stage fright. We need to keep reminding ourNovember 2014 | The Good Life

selves to have fun with it.” From the first reading of the script to the shows, Amberleaf rehearsals last a month and a half. So the last week is critical for smoothing scene transitions and getting used to costume changes and microphone handoffs. It was the opposite from my preparations before a big running race, when I run less and rest more. In contrast, the days leading up to the show felt frenzied, as we shifted other obligations, ate at unusual hours and went to bed late. Acting proved different than running in another important way. It is not about me facing my fears on the road alone. It’s about creating something together, giving this gift to the audience and hoping we all shine, thanks to hard work, belief in each other, and synergy. At the performances I could watch Quentin’s silent movie scene from stage right. He enters slowly, with a twisted evil grin beneath a fake mustache. He’s driving a train to run over a girl tied to the tracks. He arches his eyebrows and approaches menacingly, only to be stopped by a sudden music change. Without skipping a beat he’s an armed robber running from the cops. After getting killed, he gets up, a tilted zombie. I was right; he is a natural. The finale brings out the whole cast in grand musical style. We link arms. With Quentin on my one side and a cute girl on the other, we kick our legs and sing boldly. We break ranks for a final pose, hats held high. It’s so excessive and yet heartfelt that I can’t help feeling moved and so very glad to have done this entertaining endeavor with Quentin and many new friends. Amberleaf helped Marlene Farrell, a Leavenworth writer, runner and mom, to remember the importance of being goofy and laughing at herself.

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Following the oil boom Wenatchee family gets swept up into boom times in North Dakota — lots of jobs, high wages, but no more camping in the highway medians

By Kelly Rolan

found out we were relocating from Wenatchee to Williston, ND on Aug. 15 when my husband, Roger, was transferred by his company. We arrived, 1,016 miles later in a rented U-haul truck, a Ford F-150, with our scaled-down belongings and three little Wenatchee Valley Humane Society rescue dogs on Sept. 16. I’m not sure who was in shock more ... my mother for my leaving or the dogs for being brought along. I have to say it is like no other place I’ve ever witnessed. Crazy busy. From what I can gather, Williston has gone from a town of just under 15,000 people in 2010 to now pushing 50,000 with predictions of reaching 100,000 by 2020. There is building, improving, by-passing, renovating and yes, oil drilling everywhere you look. Additionally, there are signs, radio ads and classifieds advertising “help wanted” running all day everyday and job fairs are constantly being held at various locations. And not just “oil” jobs, which there are hundreds if not thousands statewide. It’s ALL jobs — UPS, BNSF, FedEx, Wal-Mart, hospital staff, food servers, cashiers, maids, retail, etc.. I have witnessed a total of two panhandlers in four weeks. They looked incredibly out of place and were obviously just passing through. The best I can figure out, the

criteria for being hired is: you must preferably be human and breathing. You must be able to pass a drug screening and most importantly — you must have housing. No more camping in the WalMart parking lot. Apparently there were so many camped there a couple of years ago, the campers had developed a numbered address system so they could receive mail and packages, and pizza I suppose. It is now patrolled 24/7 with a flashing Starsky and Hutch lighted pickup parking lot cop. My 22-year-old son Nick and his 20-year-old buddy, Jordan Norde, have come along with us for the adventure and opportunity. Nick had a job lined up with Roger’s company and was ready to learn how to operate heavy equipment to build oil pads and roads. Jordan did not come with a job. The day after they got here we went to — guess what — a job fair held at the Grand Williston Hotel. This one was specifically for jobs in the oil fields. The first table we approached was a company called CSI. The cowboy behind the table asked Jordan what his experience was. “None sir.” He asked Jordan how long he’d been in Williston. “About 14 hours sir.” Do you have transportation? “Yes.” Do you have housing son? “Yes sir.” No really, do you honestly have housing? “Yes sir, with her,” as he pointed to me. Cowboy then reached behind his chair for a piece of paper and

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Kelly Rolan: Taking her three dogs for a walk in the oil fields of the Dakotas.

told Jordan, “Well son, you’re a strong young man with no experience. But, good housing earns you the right to an application as a ‘Pipe Inspector’s Helper.’” Jordan got the job and started last week at $18 per hour plus full benefits — $20 after 90 days. Speaking of housing — Holy price gouging batman! Average rent in Williston for a two-bed two-bath apartment is $2,500-$3,000 per month. A furnished four-bedroom house starts around $5,000$6,000 per month. Supply and demand is alive and well and has taken up residence in Williston, North Dakota. Do not and I repeat do NOT head east to the Wild Wild West to strike black gold without having accommodations in line, because camping in the highway medians is no longer allowed

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either. There are now many hotels, motels extended-stay venues and the much reported on man camps. The man camps are progressing and improving as well, I’ve read. Some of the newer and bigger ones for the large oil companies have private quarters, 24-hour dining with chefs on staff, laundry service, fitness rooms and what not. The boys met an oil rig worker and man camp resident at a Sunday afternoon dirt track demolition derby they went to (best redneck event EVER they said). He is from Florida and likes staying in the company provided man camp housing. Says all he has to worry about is working his two weeks on and then flies home to see his family every third week. He also stated that the money is far beyond what

was available in Florida and makes the sacrifice worth it. Today is Oct. 17. I’ve been here for exactly one month. Just do not ask me what day of the week it is because they are all the same ... every day is a work day in Boomtown, USA. With perhaps the exception of Sunday. Sunday’s are still a work day for many, but for thousands of workers it’s the one day to get your grocery shopping done at Wal-Mart and your laundry and filthy dirty truck washed at one of the Bubba’s Bubbles. It’s the day you buy your FR (flame resistant) safety gear that is required to work on an oil pad and of course, it’s the day you stock up on cold weather gear at a store called Home of Economy. I tried on some worker cold gear boots yesterday for the fun of it — one pair was rated to -50 degrees below zero and the other pair to -110 degrees below zero. And the Under Amour thermals they can’t keep stocked at $85 per piece (yes, 85 buckaroos for long john bottoms) say on the box they are for “Brutally Cold Weather.” What? Are you kidding me! And to think I am known to whine about the “cold” and “wind” in Wenatchee. Is this ... Karma? Take note that all of this Sunday purchasing and stocking up does not start until 12 noon on Sundays thanks to a good oldfashioned North Dakota Blue Law. No retail or alcohol sales from midnight Saturday until noon on Sundays. Wally World doesn’t even open until noon on Sundays and it is nothing short of a total chaotic madhouse when it does. And if you want to treat yourself to breakfast on Sunday — there are only three restaurants in all of Williston that serve it, one of which is a greasy (but tasty) spoon called Lonnie’s Roadhouse at a gas station. Best be prepared to wait. I will say we sure do miss our Sunday breakfasts and Bloody

Jordan Norde, left, and Nick Moore at the Williston Brewing Co.: Big dollars and big burgers.

Mary’s with the gang at Bob’s Classic. Cheers guys. As for me, I am going 100 mph filling the duties as a domestic engineer. It’s a full time job, and then some, clothing and feeding the three hard working and very hungry men (I am a lunch box packing machine) for their 10 to 16-plus hour work days. I’m also walking our three little shelter hounds. Big change for them — and me. We went from our quaint home on a quiet little dead end street, complete with fenced back yard and doggie door to second floor apartment living. So Maggie, Rose, BuddyRobert and I get geared up a few times a day and go outside for a walk. We live in a brand new 163-acre master planned development on the west end of town called The Ridge. I would guesstimate it to be about three quarters complete. When done there will be 18 acres of parks and walking paths. During our afternoon walks cruising the sidewalks around hundreds of single family homes, duplexes, condos and nearly 1,000 apartment units the dogs and I are usually the ONLY beings out there. Everyone else is working or sleeping so they can work the night shift. It’s a bit eerie. November 2014 | The Good Life

The only other people I see are the laborers building and landscaping the rest of the development at Mach speed. I have never seen things go up so fast — whole blocks of homes in a week or two. Let’s just say it appears to be all about progress and beating Mother Nature to the finish line without a constant barrage of bureaucratic meddling. There simply isn’t time for that. When I am not dog walking, menu planning or grocery shopping at one of my three choices — Wal-Mart, Albertsons and Cash Wise — I have enjoyed looking at the hundreds of job postings on the ND Job Service website that are in Williston alone. Thousands if you look for the whole state. Average entry level starting pay is $17-$20 per hour and most with full benefits. As you can imagine, Halliburton is a big player here. I read on their web page they have over 72,000 employees in approximately 80 countries. Wow. Glad I don’t have to do their payroll. Williston is truly a great little community with a lot of pride. It reminds me a lot of Ellensburg in how the original downtown neighborhoods look. The local mayor and government are making sure to get the biggest bang for their boom www.ncwgoodlife.com

with much needed street and infrastructure improvements, park improvements and much, much more. They have built the most amazing and beautiful $75 million indoor recreation center called the ARC that opened this past March. It has over 10,000 memberships and over 170,000 visits in its first seven months of business. There are four tennis courts, a turf soccer field, two full tracks, basketball and volleyball courts, pool, lazy river, wave simulator, racquetball, golf simulator, weights, cardio floor and classes. So cool. And only $50 per month for a membership. I will be adding a daily visit to my agenda starting Monday. Williston State College is a very nicely kept and pretty twoyear school that offers a lot of continuing education courses as well as a crane operator program I saw — don’t think I’m not tempted. Downtown has some great shops and an awesome oldschool Penney’s department store with a big wide staircase that takes you to the lower level for housewares and children’s clothing. There is an airport that sits right smack in the middle of everything, with a proposed $250 million new one on the books. United and Delta have hoppers you can take in and out. Amtrak has a station here. It’s a 20-hour train ride to Wenatchee. There are two golf courses, quite a few great restaurants and hotels with a proposed $170 million convention center with 16-floor hotel being kicked around ... and all the fast food you need. Pizza delivery is sketchy at best (one to two hours) as is most customer service. They can’t train or keep enough people in the low pay $10-$15 per hour service industry jobs. As soon as they get a whiff of that “black gold” — they are gone.

Our evolving travels We embarked on our rather lengthy trip without a very good idea of exactly what we would be doing By Lief Carlsen

e had originally conceived of our two-month vacation in Germany as a bicycle tour. We had even purchased compact, folding bicycles on which to make the tour but we had to drop that idea when we learned that the airline wanted as much to transport the bicycles as to transport our bodies. We next hit upon the idea of traveling around in a rented car and camping in a tent — or perhaps a small motorhome. The only thing we knew for sure was that we didn’t want to be the stereotypical tourists who are shepherded from hotels to museums in a bus. We couldn’t afford such a vacation in any case, but even more, that’s just not us. In truth, we embarked on our rather lengthy vacation without a very good idea of exactly what we would be doing. When we finally touched down in Amsterdam on Sept. 3 (not in Germany, I know, but KLM offered the best airfare) it was the car/tent option we had

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Lief “wanders” (hikes) at the Alpsee, where he found German beer to be everything it’s cracked up to be.

settled upon. We spent a couple of delightful days riding along the canals of Amsterdam on rented bicycles before driving to the Rhineland-Pfalz region of Germany to take a nostalgic tour of the places I had lived as a boy on the American air bases at Bitburg and Spangdahlem. We then took a leisurely drive along the winding, pastoral Mosel River and visited the impressive castle at Burg Eltz. Next, it was on to visit relatives in the city of Ulm and a breathtaking tour of Ulm’s cathedral. While we certainly enjoyed the “sights,” we soon realized that going from tourist attraction to tourist attraction, even on our own, was not something we could keep up for more than a week or two. A sort of “Wow! fatigue” quickly sets in.

when I lived in Germany as a boy. I made several attempts to locate a language school in the vicinity of Immendstadt without much success. Somewhat reluctantly, we bid farewell to beautiful Immendstadt and drove to the bustling city of Munich where language schools abound. As it happens, we couldn’t have picked a worse time for the move. Munich is ground zero for Oktoberfest and the two-weeklong, beer-sodden festivities were just beginning. Accommodations go for two or three times the normal during Oktoberfest but after a lengthy Internet search we lucked out and got a really nice place in a quiet neighborhood at a price within our budget ($1,500/month) With one month left in Germany, I am happily enrolled in an intensive German course at a great little language school and making good progress. Our German relatives in Ulm helped us locate an affordable vacation rental in the town of Immenstadt on a small lake at the base of the Alps. Consigning our tent to the trunk of our rental car, we used our comfortable studio apartment as a home base from which to experience the popular German sport of “wandern” — hiking in the hills. Bavaria abounds with “Wanderwegs” — well-maintained (often paved) trails winding through quaint villages and hills and often terminating in small cafes that serve beer and “Brotzeit” (unassembled sandwiches.) For three weeks we enjoyed such pursuits as sailing the Alpsee on an authentically rigged ketch and climbing the 10,000foot Nebelhorn (with some assistance from a gondola.) Life in Immenstadt was good but I wanted more. I have always regretted that I never learned much German

Munich is a friendly city with much to see and do. We just returned from a delightful afternoon in a beautiful park (der Englischer Garten) where we watched people surfing on the river (yes!), sunbathing in the nude (really!) as well as the more sedate pastime of sitting on a park bench and listening to open-air musicians. Last weekend we made a visit just north of the city to the suburb of Dachau where we took a sobering tour of the infamous Nazi concentration camp. This weekend we plan to rent bicycles and take the much-vaunted ride along the city’s Isar River Trail. To date, I would say we have done a good job of immersing ourselves in the “Das Deutsche Leben” (the German life), which, without being able to verbalize it, is what we wanted to do all along. For more thrilling details of the Carlsens’ adventures in Germany, visit: chelantraveler.wordpress.com.

Where to go:

When to go:*

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When you or a loved one are sick or injured, the last thing you should be concerned about is where to go for treatment. To make sure you receive the right care at the right time, it’s important to know what common ailments can be treated by a walk-in clinic or what conditions require a trip to the emergency room.

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When to go:*

Walk-in Clinics Wenatchee Valley Hospital & Clinics 820 N. Chelan Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801

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Dizziness Stomach Pain Chest Pain

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Sprains / Strains Minor Burns Flu or Cold Sore Throat Fever Ear Ache Stings or Bites Work-Related Injuries *These lists are not exclusive.

Dad & me & my grandson the guys go camping — Introducing a family tradition to a new member bins. I am not a fan of country but for some reason these guys were okay in my book. We also listened to books on tape, sometimes t was a warm autumn morning and the a novel and in later years the Deathlands guys’ camping trip was minutes from begin- series. I thought of my daughter, she loved ning. Johnny Cash’s A Boy Named Sue. I checked the required supplies: a book, It was then that I heard a squeal from the Leatherman Survival Tool, clothes, football, back seat. “Grandpa, can I have a book?” DVDs, Ninjago luggage bag — I know, it reThis is the point when it sank in. Bentley, ally sounded like we were roughing it. my grandson of three years, was going on his My Dad and I quickly piled the stuff into first fall campout. the fifth-wheel travel trailer and entered the I thought about the first fall campout I white pick-up truck. went on. We were not just camping but also As we drove away from my parent’s house, hunting and fishing. I also brought books, I looked toward the road and pondered the like Bentley; however, they were books about past. dinosaurs, dragons, sharks and adventures; Music entered my mind. “I hear the train the little guy wanted The Lion King. This was a comin,’ it’s rolling round the bend” Johnny going to be a very different camping trip. In Cash played in my mind and I thought about the past the only person I had to entertain the past trips. We usually listened to the was myself. I thought, “How hard can it be to three Johnnys: Johnny Horton, Johnny Rivers entertain a three-year-old?” and Johnny Cash. We pulled into the campground. I quickly I guess we also listened to Marty Robexited the truck and removed Bentley from

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Jimmy McGregor with Bentley: First time camper.

his car seat. Normally I would help Dad set up camp but I had to take care of Bentley and we could hardly wait to explore. The wind weaved through the camp. It

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| November 2014

blew anything that wasn’t tied down into the neighbor’s camp. I looked toward the bathrooms, “Bentley, that is where the toys that your mother played on are.” But they weren’t there. We walked toward the bathrooms. We got closer and Bentley asked more questions, “Where are the toys?” The toys were replaced by horseshoe pits. If you are into horseshoes great; if you had promised a three-year-old that he would get to hang like a monkey from a metal bar several feet off the ground, not so much. We quickly walked back to camp. I stepped into the trailer. I reached for the bag of goodies and looked out the window. The wind was horrible. Leaves flipped and hovered through the air, only to be caught again by the wind and propelled across the campsite. The sky was clear, but growing darker from grey clouds that were in the process of taking over our wonderful day. “Grandpa?” Bentley wanted to go outside and play ball. Sure thing. We left the trailer and Bentley took the ball and started to run. His little feet darted 5, 10, 15 feet away from me. He turned and looked to me. He then turned and looked off to the left and then the right. He then turned sideways and started to wind up the ball. He threw it at me like it was a baseball. It landed three feet away from him. Even though he was a little confused about what game he was playing, he was having fun and that is all that mattered. We played ball, a matching game, and watched a movie for the rest of the afternoon. Around seven it was already dark outside and Bentley was starting to wind down. It had been a long day. He was very tired. So was I. The couch-that-made-into-abed in Dad’s trailer wasn’t inviting, even after a long day. The back cushion became the inside

of the bed and the seat became the outer edge. In the center was a heavy board that held the whole thing together. The board was a huge problem because it followed the contour of the sleeper’s back and was very unforgiving. My father brought me three blankets for the torture device that was my bed for the next eight hours. I sat down on my bed and watched my Dad make Bentley’s bed. Dad took a large bundle and unrolled it to create a thick mattress-like cushion. He unrolled this comfortable looking pad very carefully. He then placed a sheet and several blankets down, added a pillow and pulled back the blankets. I laid down and pulled the scruffy blankets over my already sore and strained body. I looked toward Bentley. He was smiling, warm and almost asleep. The morning couldn’t have come early enough for me. I barely slept and there was something about that bed that caused my hip to hurt. It was like I was trying to stretch my legs in a space that was five inches too short. The truth was it felt better to stand than it felt to lie down. Prince Bentley on the other hand had a restful sleep. He shut his eyes the night before and woke up 12 hours later. We spent the morning walking around the lake and playing at the playground until it was time head for home. Camping was work, especially with a three-year-old in tow. But that three-year-old created more fond memories that made me smile than work that made me frown. I thought to myself, you only live once and I will never be able to live this memory with Bentley again. I also thought, “I am really looking forward to sharing future camping trips with him. Maybe next time we might even bring a book on dinosaurs.” November 2014 | The Good Life

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Kyle and Jan Mathison enjoy the fruits of their labor, quite literally, on an east-facing double-deck that provides a lot of summertime hospitality. (Caution: views in background are steeper and farther than they look.)

PARTY Hacienda Story by Susan Lagsdin Photos by Donna Cassidy

yle and Jan Mathison love their house, pure and simple. Jan said, “Really, after all this time here I don’t think there’s

anything about it that we’d change.” After living down Stemilt Hill in a double-wide trailer until 15 years ago, they relished the thought of building their big new place high up the road and hosting their friends and

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acquaintances whenever they please. And host they do. Over the years they’ve greeted thousands of guests: scores of employees, tree-fruit clients from around the world, extended family, friends of friends and

}}} Continued on page 28

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| November 2014

Massive fir beams are load bearing, as are the basalt pillars from Mattawa. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;The columns came in just one to a truck,â&#x20AC;? Jan said.) The decadesold rubber plants create a little privacy for a small dining nook near the fireplace grill.

November 2014 | The Good Life

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Parking spaces for dozens of cars and a wide-open, welcoming front entrance patio were required features from the first sketches of the home. The windswept site is designed with protective pockets for relaxing in comfort.

Party hacienda }}} Continued from page 26

groups they enjoy, like the traveling Pacific Lutheran University football team. Three major parties a year, the largest 450 guests, dominate their calendar. Everyone has enjoyed the “good food, good drink and good people” that Jan declared are the only real ingredients needed for a successful gathering. Kyle joked, “Jan has a doctorate in partying.” With early training in the hospitality industry, Jan has become a gracious hostess unperturbed

by constant activity. She says she and Kyle, who she married after meeting at Washington State University in 1973, are both very social by nature, and she seemed pleased that “there’s generally someone staying here at the house all through harvest season.” A party for 20 friends and relatives the night before and a large (200 people) upcoming Wine Club gathering didn’t faze her. Their living areas, especially outdoors, were intentionally designed for entertaining. The big

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shady dining deck cantilevered over cliffs on the east can seat dozens; three interconnected rooftop areas with a small serving room hold even more. The central lawn, cooled by overhanging shade cloth, borders a patio where a buffet line

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| November 2014

can serpentine past barbecue grills, into the “quincho” or patio guest room where dessert is served, and out again. Kyle and Jan are prepared for any celebratory occasion, from employee appreciation to family birthdays. Kyle exults in relating family

TOP: Lots of north light, unadorned windows and fifteen-foot ceilings add dimension to the living room, a few steps down from the close-by kitchen/ dining area. Simple, strong materials and western décor characterize the whole house.

This grassy central courtyard is covered in sunny months with shade cloth for outdoor parties. This view shows the stairs to the rooftop decks and the “quincho” or guestroom. The tiled patio extends out to the reservoir with its diving platform.

“Every day I wake up and walk out, and there’s always something new to see. I thank God for being here.” history and still likes his decision to perch on the hill, even though he was once cautioned by his dad that, “Mathisons have

LEFT: The reservoir pond nurtures brown trout and humans who take an occasional refreshing dip. This view toward Jump Off Ridge spans the north patio and a section of the central courtyard lawn that’s covered all summer in heat-deflecting shade cloth.

always built their houses in the bottoms.” Approached from the west side up a long drive with tall concrete fence posts, the home is surrounded on three sides by both close and distant views of November 2014 | The Good Life

orchards that have provided the clan a living for 100 years. “Every day I wake up and walk out, and there’s always something new to see. I thank God for being here,” said Kyle, who as a child used to gather up his www.ncwgoodlife.com

grandmother’s milk cow from this grassy high-altitude bench and vowed he’d live here some day. The big single-story house is a warm mix of grand and humble.

}}} Continued on next page

Party hacienda }}} Continued from previous page A wide tiled entrance hall sometimes babbles loudly with two major rock fountains (long story short: Jan had one built, Kyle wanted it different. They have

two.) Huge fir beams and basalt pillars provide structural support in the living area. A 14-seat table, often filled with company, dominates the dining area, and

each of seven bedrooms has a private bath. But the house is meant to be lived in. Family photos and memorabilia abound, the western-themed furnishings are comfy, and the master suite is small (though with an Italianate toilet with arguably the best down valley view in Wenatchee). There are cubbies and corners just for Kyle and Jan, too — for day chores in a tucked-away office, a glass of wine on the deck, a cozy meal at the inner island of the big kitchen. Stemilt Hill neighbor and builder Art Sanders fabricated the 6,000-plus square foot house in 1998 with “Quad-Lock.” Light, fire-resistant and energy efficient, interlocking foam and plastic forms were stacked and filled with poured concrete, strengthened with rebar, then faced with adobe-look stucco. The overall look is New Mexico, though Kyle says he’d really been inspired by European castles for the positioning and prominence of his home. Whatever the inspiration, whatever the outcome, both Kyle and Jan agree the house is exactly what they‘ve always wanted. Their debated details and sketched plans ultimately informed the design by Wenatchee architect Richard Congdon, and they never looked back.

“Kyle had always wanted to raise buffalo, but that didn’t work out, so I planned a buffalo motif everywhere I could in the house.” When Jan lead a little tour of the house, she enjoyed pointing out two themed guest rooms, the “buffalo room” and the “fish room,” each with distinctive artwork and décor. She explained, “Kyle had always wanted to raise buffalo, but that didn’t work out, so I planned a buffalo motif everywhere I could in the house. I wanted this one room to be something else — so it’s fish.” Because the Mathisons are orchardists growing cherries in three climates, they basically follow the fruit every year — winter in Chile, a spring month in Bakersfield, CA, and the rest of the time here in Wenatchee. This is the favorite spot, the “Welcome Home” place. It’s where their roots are — their extended family, their first orchards and their most comfortable house. >> RANDOM QUOTE

NCW Home Professionals

Just because you fail once, doesn’t mean you’re gonna fail at everything. Keep trying, hold on, and always, always, always believe in yourself, because if you don’t, then who will, sweetie? Marilyn Monroe 30

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| November 2014

column moving up to the good life

june darling

Get your beat on — the magic of music “When I hear music, I

fear no danger. I am invulnerable. I see no foe….” Guess who said that. Was it Bono, the Irish singer-songwriter, philanthropist, and frontman for the Dublin-based rock band, U2? No, Bono, said, “Music can change the world because it can change people.” Okay, then, how about Marilyn Manson, controversial stage personality and songwriter? No, Marilyn Manson said, “Music is the strongest form of magic.” The mystery quote was spoken by author, poet, philosopher, historian and polymath, Henry David Thoreau. A fairly astute fellow. Impressive statements about the power of music have been uttered for hundreds of years by thousands of famous people from every culture and all walks of life. Scientific research suggests that these folks are on to something big. From a neuroscience perspective, just listening to music is extraordinarily complex. Using brain imaging tools, activity can be seen in every lobe of the brain and cerebellum as well as the more ancient areas deep inside the brain. Studies within the last few years show that listening to music can affect your immune system, how you perceive pain, your stress and anxiety level, your productivity and performance, and especially your mood and emotions. Listening to pleasing music can be more effective than pain medication and anti-depressants. Researchers say the brain reacts to music much as it would to taking cocaine, or having a pleasant sexual encounter.

Music is powerful stuff. The wide-ranging positive music research was so impressive that I felt compelled to experiment on myself. As a music research subject, I’m more of the naïve variety. I like music, I play a bit of piano, but I am not a popular music nor classical groupie. It is only a slight exaggeration to say that I would have trouble distinguishing Taylor Swift from Pharrell Williams or Pavarotti. The experiment was this. I wanted to see if a certain type of music would help me enjoy running more, help me run faster and help me run longer. What certain type of music should I choose? Supposedly, the beats per minute is an important factor. We automatically get in rhythm with the music. Music within the 125-145 bpm seemed right for a moderate run, according to the studies I examined. The research also suggested that although music affects us universally, whether or not we find certain music pleasing is largely a product of what we have listened to earlier in our lives. Music that brings back pleasant memories is especially effective for enjoyment and perfor-

November 2014 | The Good Life

mance. Thirty-ish years ago, the only music I can remember listening to and enjoying (don’t laugh) were the Bee Gees (Stayin’ Alive), The Pointer Sisters (I’m So Excited), and Michael Jackson (Billie Jean). I knew I could probably get those on my Smartphone, but that would mean figuring out how to download an app for Spotify or some such thing just to get the process rolling. Then figuring out how to actually get the songs. It took me about 40 detestable minutes fumbling around trying to figure it all out so that I actually could listen to music (yes, I realize that 12-year-olds do this in seconds). But… I can tell you… It was absolutely worth it! The moment Stayin’ Alive started playing I was dancing up the hill. I felt bullet-proof, ready to fight off Pit Bulls and Pinchers. I ran twice as far as usual. The experiment with a subject of one was a huge success. I fall in with Thoreau. It’s quite possible that you do too. Here’s one idea. This Thanksgiving when you need to cook and clean, but your attitude just isn’t quite up to par and your osteoarthritis has hi-

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jacked your attention, it may be just the time to resurrect your old tunes. While you are at it, you may want to give thanks for the sheer magic of music. Martin Luther said that music was one of the “most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.” How might you move up to The Good Life this November by enjoying music? Here are a few tips that made it easier and more fun for me to run with music. I used Skullcandy ear buds with an over-the-ear clip that were especially made for women and stayed comfortably in my ear (disclaimer: I am personally connected to and biased toward Skullcandy products). I took out one ear bud when I felt that I needed to listen for traffic. I tucked the cord inside my shirt so that I didn’t get tangled up in the cord while running. June Darling, Ph.D. can be contacted at drjunedarling1@gmail. com; website: www.summitgroupresources.com. Her books, including 7 Giant Steps To The Good Life, can be bought or read for free at Amazon. com.

column GARDEN OF DELIGHTS

bonnie orr

More than one way to eat a pear F

or years, Wenatchee has billed itself as the “Apple Capital of the World,” but that claim is no longer accurate. The real claim to fame is that north central Washington is the pear capital of the United States. The Wenatchee River valley produces 85 percent of Washington’s pears — and Washington is the leading producer of pears in the United States. This valley is the largest contiguous pear orchard in the country. Pears are the loveliest fall fruit. Bosc, Starkcrimson, Bartlett, Seckel and Anjou are grown here and readily available at roadside markets and in the grocery. Pears are smooth, creamy and sweet. The Bosc is the sweetest; the Starkcrimson is the creamiest. They ripen easily in a basket on the kitchen counter. You can test for ripeness by pressing the stem end of the fruit. If it is soft, the fruit is ripe. Also, to test for ripeness, pull at the stem to see if it loosens. Pears are versatile eating all day long from breakfast smoothies to afternoon snacks to hors d’oeuvres to the final course for a lovely dinner. The question is what to do with pears. I asked numerous friends, what is your favorite pear dish? No one responded with, “OMG, I had the best pear...” Most people shrugged. Eating them out of hand seems to be the favorite way to enjoy pears. Seldom have I cooked pears except to make pear pies. Someone gave me a bushel of Bartletts that were fruit-fly ready, and I cooked them down into pear butter. It was delicious and extravagant to be over-run with

pleasant enticement to encourage your dinner guest to linger around the table to continue conversations. Some people prefer mild cheese with sweet pears, and others like a tangy cheese with attitude to be countered by the buttery pear. Brie, Monterey jack and mascarpone are quiet tastes. Roquefort, gorgonzola These pears illustrate the bounty of our region; (red) Starkrimson, (green) Anjou, (brown) and feta provide “Todd” bosc, (yellow) Bartlett. The pear corer is a handy tool that Bonnie inherited from her grandmother. more robust combinations. The firmer cheeses such as ripe pears. own taste and texture. If you Parmesan or pecorino add I dry the very sweet Bosc pears have not participated in a pear saltiness and a firm texture to to use as a toothy snack. tasting, create one as the final complement the sweet pear. The appeal of pears is the course for a dinner. You and I think roasted nuts create fruity aroma and the texture, your friends can almost use a great textures. I particularly like so when pears are cooked with thesaurus to create the descripthe sweet taste of hazelnuts and other ingredients, often both of tions for each type of pear. almonds with pears. those characteristics are lost, That said, I am going to sugInterestingly, pears are deliand the pear becomes merely gest that pears be eaten uncious with either a dry, white fibrous filler. cooked, but paired with savory wine such as Riesling or a very When I have eaten pears and sweet accompaniments. dry, strong red wine such as enfolded into dish, I cannot Sprinkling the pear slices with syrah or with Port, which is identify the type of pear that lemon juice or citric acid will sweet and strong. Champagne is was used, and most pear recipes inhibit browning, especially in many people’s favorite wine with do not specify a particular type Bartletts. pears. of pear. I have seen recipes for Pears go well with mild, firm Eating pears out-of-hand is the deep-fried, grilled, poached, seafood such as shrimp. Salmon, tastiest way to appreciate these roasted, stewed and sautéed cooked and cooled, served with special Northwestern fruit. Slice fruit. In none of the recipes did slices of pears creates the most the fruit on a platter and add the pear maintain its integrity. attractive combination of color Spices such as cinnamon, and texture: the sweet, firm fish some of these pairings, which will not overwhelm the pear’s cloves and nutmeg mask the and the creamy, soft pear. taste. pear’s taste. The same is true Of course, cheese is the most with herbs such as basil, arugula common pairing with fresh Bonnie Orr — the dirt diva — cooks or mint. pears because a plate of cheeses, and gardens in East Wenatchee. Each type of pear develops its crackers and fruit are a very

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PET tales

Tells us a story about your pet. Submit pet & owner pictures to: editor@ncwgoodlife.com

e thought that 25 years without a pet was too long, so after much research, we found a little mini golden Doodle at a small breeder near Mount Spokane, in Elk. We wanted a dog that was large enough to not step on yet small enough to pick up and hold. We wanted a non-allergic breed as well as an active (but mellow) dog. Our choice was a mini-Golden Doodle. This breed surely seems to be a just right choice for us retired folks — loving and intelligent, easy care with no shedding. Karma is now three years old and is around 22 pounds. She has made us remember how fun it is to laugh. She entertains us all the time. Give her a plastic jug and she will toss it, tear into it and make all sorts of noise as she throws it into the air. She is also very sharp to notice when one of us gets tour shoes on, or one picks up her leash,

that must mean walk time. We all three enjoy the trail between the two Chelan bridges. It is only about one mile per loop with some benches and shade, to rest, if you wish. This is a good place to meet and visit with lots of new doggie friends. Also around, are a duck and/or quail or two to chase, which is Karma’s favorite sport. — Janet and Duane Bolinger

November 2014 | The Good Life

adopted Charlie from the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society and he is just the best little dog. Charlie goes everywhere with me and that is exactly what I wanted. — Christen Cook

Know of someone stepping off the beaten path in the search for fun and excitement? E-mail us at editor@ncwgoodlife.com

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column THE TRAVELing DOCTOR

jim brown, m.d.

Beer for breakfast When sleep rhythms go awry we can not only lose track of time, but endanger our health

I recently attended the

alumni weekend at my medical school at Northwestern University in Chicago where we were privileged to hear faculty members lecture including Dr. Phyllis Zee, a neurologist, who is the head of the Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Biology Research Center. She has a perfect name to be one of our nation’s leading experts in the field of sleep. I became more aware of the significance of sleep disorders have on our health and even on our economy. I am sure that many of you have suffered jet lag when you have crossed several time zones. You might awaken at your usual time but feel groggy and even disoriented. Once when we were traveling overnight to Europe, we fell into bed at 5 p.m. We awakened a couple of hours later, looked at the clock that said 7 and thought it was morning. We quickly dressed and went down for breakfast. It seemed odd that people were having beer for breakfast, but this was Germany after all. We looked at the menu and saw hamburgers but no breakfast items. When we asked the waitress about it, she said they would have a breakfast menu in the morning. We had gotten up at 7 p.m. thinking it was 7 a.m. I have flown to medical conferences on the East coast arriving in the evening and have breakfast meetings or lectures the next morning at 7 a.m. I get up at 6 a.m and feel terrible because my body thinks it really is 3 a.m. It takes a few days to adjust and make up for these

“lost” hours. Jet lag really disrupts our circadian rhythm. This summer we had 13 of our family at our small cabin for two weeks. The boys slept in a large tent outside and in a camper. By 10 p.m. my wife and I were tired and could hardly stay awake, but the seven grandkids were wide awake in the living room and kept going strong until around 2 a.m. In the morning none of them appeared until about 10-11 a.m. Adolescent teenagers experience a sleep phase that makes them feel alert later at night, making it difficult for them to fall asleep before 11 p.m. Teens need more sleep than most of us — from eight-anda-half to nine hours a night. With schools starting around 8 a.m. or before, most of them are not getting the sleep they need. Some schools are recognizing this and are trying to institute a later starting school time. It makes sense if you understand the circadian rhythms of teenagers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a later start for middle and high schoolers. The Academy says sleep deprivation in teens is one of the most common yet easily fixed public heath issues in the U.S. Sleep deprivation effects attention, learning and memory. Some of us are morning persons and others, evening persons. I am a strong morning person. I didn’t realize it then, but when I was in school, I generally went to bed early before 10 p.m. and did most of my best studying in the early morning hours. I never burned the midnight oil, and it

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worked well for me. My wife said in college she was up very late at night studying, particularly before exams. As we have gotten older I think she has gravitated to being less of a night owl, thank goodness. We are just beginning to realize how important sleep and circadian rhythms are for our health. You might wonder what circadian rhythms are and what they have to do with our health. The term circadian comes from Latin words that literally mean “around the day.” A circadian rhythm is roughly a 24-hour cycle of the sleeping patterns and physiologic processes of all living things including all plants and animals including humans. Our brain waves, our hormones, cell regeneration and other biologic activities are linked to this cycle. Circadian rhythms respond primarily to the light and darkness in our external environment. Disorders of these rhythms have been linked to various sleep disorders as well as being associated with obesity, diabetes, depression, bipolar disorders and seasonal affective disorder. We all have a biologic master clock that is located in our brain in what is called the hypothalamus. When there is less light or darkness, this clock directs our brain to produce more melatonin, which is a hormone that makes us feel drowsy. In bright light this hormone production is markedly reduced. By the way, Dr. Zee said taking supplemental melatonin pills has not been shown to have any beneficial effect on total sleeping time or the number of awak-

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| November 2014

enings during the night. In rare cases very high doses might have some effect, but the typical melatonin doses available over the counter are much lower. Our internal clock regulates the timing of periods of sleepiness and wakefulness throughout our day. Our strongest sleep drive is between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. I know that after lunch many of us feel sleepy. It isn’t the food that is doing it but the master clock that controls our sleep drive. I know many of my retired friends nap around 1 p.m. in response to this normal sleep drive. I’m not there yet. In many Latin American countries, people take a siesta between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. This has given some a misinformed reputation that they are lazy, which is far from the truth. They actually are paying attention to their biologic clock, taking a nap to be more productive later in the day. Circadian rhythm disorders can be caused by shift work, pregnancy, time zone changes as well as changes in one’s routine by staying up too late or sleeping too long. This can occur when people fall asleep late and then have difficulty waking up for work or school. It also can occur when someone goes to bed earlier than usual like before 6-9 p.m. and then awaken too early around 1-5 a.m. Night owls who consistently stay up late put themselves at risk for weight gain, obesity and subsequent diabetes. They have

been shown to consume on average 250 extra calories daily in the evening compared to early birds who go to bed before 10 p.m. Those 250 calories a day can add two pounds of body weight monthly, and this can be cumulative over time. The food that is consumed in the evening is generally less healthy snack and fast food rather than fruits and vegetables. These people also have an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and diabetes. Dr. Zee said when the sun goes down, you should be getting ready for bed and not eating. In the morning hours we need exposure to bright light and the sun is best. Her studies have shown that employees who have a corner office with much light are more productive than those with less or no light — although I wonder if the reason they got that corner office wasn’t due to their productiveness in the first place. A good night’s sleep, consisting of seven to nine hours of uninterrupted slumber, can help prevent colds, decrease the risk of heart disease, improve concentration and even help a person look younger. Some 63 percent of Americans say they sleep less than seven hours a night. Researchers have shown that exposure to lightemitting screens from televisions, computers and even smart phones in the later evening hours make it more difficult to fall asleep. Sleep is restorative to the brain as well as the body. People who sleep less than six hours a night experience a lower quality of life and are more likely to suffer from depression. One suggestion for getting better sleep and staying in tune with our internal biologic clock is to put down the smart phone, turn off the computer and go to bed before the 10 p.m. news, which most likely will be disturbing. In fact, a recent article in The Guardian reported that news is

bad for your health as it leads to aggression or depression, hinders your creativity and ability to think deeply. The media feeds us small bites of trivial matter that doesn’t require thinking. We are bombarded with news flashes. We shouldn’t be having these thoughts at bedtime. It is hard for me to understand why so many people have a television set in their bedroom. Room darkening window shades are a good idea, or one can use light darkening eye pads to keep out ambient light. It is recommended that we avoid caffeine, coffee, cola and chocolate in the evening. Caffeine stays in our systems for approximately eight hours and affects some people’s sleep a lot more than others. We are better off doing our workouts and exercises in the daytime hours rather than the evening hours. Our bedrooms should have a cool temperature. It is important to establish a sleep routine. Try to go to bed and arise at roughly the same hours every day if possible. Your biologic clock will appreciate it. If you need to eat, be sure that you only eat lightly in the evening and avoid large meals, heavy snacks or alcohol close to bedtime. If your feet are cold, put on socks, which make it easier to fall asleep. That sure helps me in the winter months. Put a note pad by your bedside in order to write down those thoughts that are keeping you awake. You can deal with them the next morning. Remember, you need a good night’s sleep. Your health is at stake. Jim Brown, M.D., is a retired gastroenterologist who has practiced for 38 years in the Wenatchee area. He is a former CEO of the Wenatchee Valley Medical Center.

Got a good story to tell? email: editor@ncwgoodlife.com

November 2014 | The Good Life

Relax to the fullest. The spa experience at Highgate includes a soothing bath in our jetted tub, serene lighting, soft music and towel warmers. Care partners offer relaxing massages as residents breathe in the rejuvenating scents of luscious oils and flowers, all part of our signature aromatherapy program and unique holistic approach. Come feel the difference. phone: 509-665-6695 visit: HighgateSeniorLiving.com

for a

Mainstreet Christmas Enjoy the holiday season in Downtown Wenatchee. Come and experience the magic! Saturday, November 8th | 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Holiday Open House & Wine Walk

Saturday, December 6th | 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Community Tree Lighting & Free Photos with Santa

Stanley Civic Center Plaza

Saturday, December 13th | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Free Pizza, Photos, & Crafts with Santa Wenatchee Convention Center Sunday, December 14th | 11:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m. Free Photos with Santa Wenatchee Convention Center

Get event and holiday shopping details online at www.wendowntown.org

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staying true to a special way of seeing the world By Susan Lagsdin

“T

he eye sees; the mind edits; the heart interprets.” This simple equation of aesthetic sensibility is a mantra Robert Wilson lives and teaches. The Wenatchee painter, recently returned to the region of his own artistic awakening, at 72 continues to discover truths about art, and he’s still following his own vision. When Robert was in high school in Chicago, a painting by New Yorker Frank Stella “lit a light somewhere inside me,” he said. In the early ’60s many ambitious young artists migrated east to the frenetic energy and towering possibilities of New York City, but Robert Wilson reversed the trend and headed to the Pacific Northwest. Enjoying a Bohemian life on a Lake Union houseboat, he attended art classes at the University of Washington and was attracted to the abstract expressionism of painters Mark Tobey and Morris Graves. That special way of seeing the world never left him. Robert still consciously resists making representational art. In his new hometown (he and his wife moved here from Connecticut three years ago) he’s met artists whose recognizable landscapes and still life paintings delight him, but he has never tried to match their realism. His latest works are studies in pure nonrepresentational form, mostly variations on black. They may be untypical for this area, but he knows the art community is flexible. “We grow our sense of appreciating art by valuing what we know but also reaching out a little more.” He admits, “Right now I guess I’m known for my ‘black blobs.’”

TOP: Robert Wilson expects to shortly move into his new art gallery, but until then he works on his granite slab kitchen island at his East Wenatchee home. LEFT: Long-envisioned, then quickly and confidently painted within minutes, this oil-sketch was christened Geraniums, and typifies the ever-so-gradual inclusion of identifiable natural elements in Robert’s decidedly abstract work.

“Right now I guess I’m known for my ‘black blobs.’” Black blobs perhaps. But when he settles down at his big granite kitchen island to demonstrate how a vision becomes a painting, his hand, sure and fast, scurries over the paper, wielding an “oil bar” (like a fat, wrapped crayola with condensed oil paint in it) on heavy paper. He links a choppy rectangular pattern of sticks to a rounded cluster of bright red… flowers? | The Good Life

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“Yes — I guess this is something about new growth.” He’d been picturing in his mind the red shape in the tangle of black for a few days, and he used this interview time to put it to paper. He added, “You know, it kind of scares me that I’m actually painting a flower…” Graciously finessing that point, he explained, “I’ve never been interested in painting realistic scenes from nature — but there’s so much visual abundance here all around me sometimes I find it creeping into my work.” In the past, even when his family-supporting work life veered off art, he continued to paint. Robert was an industrial efficiency

| November 2014

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Slam poetry night, every Tuesday, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Clearwater Steakhouse and Saloon, 838 Valley Mall Pky. East Wenatchee. Pybus Public Market, every Tuesday Deborah Strahm, personal chef cooks at the market. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. Improv/Acting Workshop, 7 p.m. Every Tuesday night with theater games for novice and experienced players. Fun, casual and free. Riverside Playhouse. Cost: free. Info: mtow.org. Country Western open mic/ jam session, 3-6 p.m. Every second and fourth Sunday. Clearwater Saloon, 838 Valley Mall Pky. East Wenatchee.

This recent painting, Our Place in Space and Time, exemplifies Robert Wilson’s personal expressionism. He’s used to people asking (“What is it, really?” and “What does it mean?”) but deftly hands the query back to the questioner.

consultant, and he said, “When I traveled to work sites, I’d carry my art supplies and set them up in my hotel room.” That diligence honed his skill, and he was eventually able to paint full time, with gallery sales in New York and Seattle. He has taught and lectured on art, represented new painters and created metal sculpture (as well as a successful science fiction novel). In Wenatchee, Robert has been featured at Two Rivers Gallery and will have a January show at the Graves Gallery. And this month he’s on

the verge of opening a working studio space downtown. He’s decisive about his direction. “I’m experimenting with using lines to give an impression of shape,” he explained, referring to a refrigerator-sized painting in his condo living room dominated by gradations of gray and black in horizontal rows. He has the time, he has the tools, and he has the eye/mind/ heart connection perfected. He’s all art now. Robert said simply, “This is what I’ve been planning on doing my whole life.”

November 2014 | The Good Life

Pybus Public Market, every Thursday night is locals night, 5 – 8 p.m. Live music, cooking demonstrations and local vendors. Lake Chelan Winery Tour, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 11/14/14, 2 p.m. Explore the vineyard, crush pad, and production facility with our knowledgeable staff. Finish in our tasting room and sip on wine. Lake Chelan Winery. Cost: free. Info: lakechelanwinery.com. NCW Blues Jam, every second and fourth Monday, 7:30 – 11 p.m. Clearwater Steakhouse, East Wenatchee. Info: facebook.com/NCWBluesJam. Carmen, 11/1, 7:30 a.m. Breakfast buffet at Kingfisher Restaurant followed by a live broadcast of Carmen at Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $36 adults, $18 kids 5- 12. Info: sleepinglady.com. Leavenworth Quilt Show, 11/130, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Downtown

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Leavenworth. chelan-douglas Land trust Annual Celebration Dinner, 11/1, 6 – 9 p.m. Make new acquaintances, catch up with old friends, enjoy great food and refreshments, talk with Land Trust board and staff, and learn about Land Trust projects accomplished with your support. Festhalle, Leavenworth. Cost: $36 includes appetizers, wine, beer, dinner and dessert. Info: cdlandtrust.org. Secret Identities, 11/1, 7 p.m. Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra will perform. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Info: wenatcheesymphony.org. Film Series: Higher, 11/6, 7 p.m. The third installment on the TGR trilogy Deeper, Further, Higher of snowboard pioneer and climate change activist Jeremy Jones. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $10 advance or $13 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Laura Porter presents The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences, 11/7, 4 p.m. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: free. Info: numericapac.org. Wenatchee First Fridays ArtsWalk, 11/7, 5 - 8 p.m. Check out Wenatchee’s arts scene. Venues and exhibits change monthly. Self-guided. WVC Campus and Historic District. Cost: art-walk free, after-events may have admission fees. Monthly info: wenatcheefirstfridaysartswalk.tumblr.com. Two Rivers Art Gallery, 11/7, 5 – 8 p.m. Cynthia Privoznik is the featured artist. Cynthia paints wolves and domestic animal portraits. Local wines, music by Mary Mendenhall on reeds and complimentary refreshments. 102 N Columbia, Wenatchee. Cost: free.

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}}} Continued from previous page Info: 2riversgallery.com. Merriment Party Goods, 11/7, 5 – 8 p.m. Merriment will feature local artist Nandylove and Bella Terrazza Vineyards. Nandylove handcrafts on-trend home and holiday décor and party items using many mediums. 23, S Wenatchee Ave. Cost: free. Info: facebook.com/ merrimentpartygoods. Tumbleweed Bead Co., 11/7, 5-8 p.m. V Donaghy, creator of Marifly will be featured. Marifly specializes in linen pillows with unique animal and seasonal designs. Refreshments served. 105 Palouse St. Cost: free. Info: tumbleweedbeadco.com. Small Artworks Gallery, 11/7, 5 p.m. 13 local artists works will be on display at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center. Info: wvmcc.org. Hairspray preview, 11/7, 5:30 and 11/8, 2 p.m. Wenatchee High School students perform selected songs from the Fall musical Hairspray. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. Bucket List Blues Band, 11/7, 6 – 8 p.m. The four members of the band have been playing music for a long time. The band gives them a chance to focus on and play the music they love… the Blues, with a little classic rock and some Motown thrown in. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org The North Cascades: Finding Beauty and Renewal in the Wild Nearby, 11/7, 7 p.m. Join Pulitzer prize-winning author William Dietrich and wildlife biologist Bill Gaines for a discussion about building lifelong bonds to the natural world in order to preserve its many life sustaining gifts for generations to come. In The North Cascades, writings from author William Dietrich, guidebook author Craig Romano, North Cascade Institute’s Christian Martin, and poet Gary Snyder are complemented by stunning photos from 20 regional photographers, including Art Wolfe, Ethan Welty, Benj Drummond, Paul Bannick, Amy Gulick, Steven Gnam, and more. Wenatchee River Institute at Barn Beach Reserve, 347 Division St. Leavenworth. Entiat Holiday Bazaar, 11/8, 11

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| November 2014

a.m. - 2 p.m. Over 60 booths of hand-made arts and crafts, photography, gift items, books, food vendors, a visit from Santa and displays by local service clubs. Entiat High School gym. Cost: free. Holiday Open House Wine Walk, 11/8, noon – 5 p.m. Taste some of your favorite local wines and shop in many of your favorite local shops. Downtown Wenatchee. Cost: $20 for 14 tastes and a souvenir glass. Info: wenatcheewines. com. Mariachi Extravaganza, 11/8, 7:30 p.m. Sebastien de La Cruz with Mariachi Huenachi will perform. Authentic Mexican tacos will be served before the show in the lobby. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $10. Info: numericapac.org. Opera Series: Carmen, 11/9, 2 p.m. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $20 advance or $24 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Harvest Time Concert, 11/9, 3 – 5 p.m. An afternoon of choral favorites, including two combined choir performances with Columbia Chorale and Wenatchee Valley College Chamber Singers. This event is part of the 75th anniversary celebration of Wenatchee Valley College. Grove Recital Hall. Info: wvc.edu/anniversary/default.asp. Alzheimer’s Café, 11/11, 2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Mountain Meadows Senior Living Campus hosts a cafe the second Tuesday of every month. This is a casual setting for folks with Alzheimer’s, dementia, their loved ones and caregivers. Desserts and beverages will be served free of charge. Entertainment and activities for those wishing to participate. Join us to meet new friends and share experiences. Located at 320 Park Avenue, Leavenworth. Info: 548-4076. Building 429, 11/11, 6:30 p.m. Christian rock band live performance. Town Toyota Center. Info: towntoyotacenter.com. Five Minutes to Morning, 11/11-15, 7 p.m. Mary Mellwood’s wonderful, magical play. Meet Mrs. Venny, a magical cross between Willy Wonka and Mary Poppins who lives in the deep woods and cares for the animals that live there. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $20 advance or $24 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Talk about a Place, 11/12, 7 p.m. Waterville Federated Church and 11/20 at The Grove Recital Hall

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on the Wenatchee Valley College campus. The Initiative for Rural Innovation and Stewardship (IRIS) will highlight success stories that connect and strengthen the communities of Orondo, Waterville and Douglas. Scholars participating include educator and Pateros School Superintendent Lois Davies; visual artist and teacher Martha Flores, Wenatchee Valley College sociology instructor Richard Brinkman and historians Darold Wax, Oregon State University professor emeritus and Carli Schiffner, vice president of Instruction at Wenatchee Valley College. Hairspray, 11/13-15, 11/20-22, 7:30 p.m. Saturday matinees 2 p.m. Wenatchee High School Choral department performs. Wenatchee High School Auditorium. Cost: $18, $15 students. Tickets at Pak-It-Rite or whs.wsd.wednet.edu. Film Series: Days of My Youth, 11/13, 7 p.m. A new ski film from Red Bull Media and Matchstick Productions starring a cast of modernday superstars as they redefine what is possible on skis. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $10 advance, $13 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Rocklyn Road Band, 11/14, 6 p.m. Danika Nolton and Gary Johnstad perform a mix of classic rock, country and rockabilly. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. The Second City, 11/14, 7:30 p.m. Chicago’s comedy world famous improv is opening up its vaults to celebrate 55 years of laughter. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $25/$29. Info: numericapac. org. Jay Owenhouse, 11/14, 7:30 p.m. Authentic illusionist live performance. Town Toyota Center. Info: towntoyotacenter.com. Chopped Cooking Competition, 11/15, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Distinguished local chefs are given mystery ingredients and pantry items from Pybus merchants … and a 30 minute time limit. Dishes will be judged based on taste, presentation and originality of meal. Judging is by a panel of local celebrities. Come watch. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org.

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column the night sky this month

Peter Lind

Mercury in the morning The distant worlds of our

solar system dominate the night sky in November. Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune all remain visible for more than half of the night. The latter two gas giants are great binocular targets. Jupiter and its four moons are a perfect target after midnight. This month’s tour of the solar system begins in the southwestern sky as evening approaches. Mars bright point hangs over the western horizon and sets more than three hours after the sun. Because of planetary mechanics, Mars appears to be stationary in the night sky all month. On Nov. 10, Mars passes within a few degrees, or about two finger widths of Pluto. The distant dwarf planet lies nearly 20 times farther from earth as Mars, so you would need a very large telescope to spy the distant world. Jupiter rises around midnight on the first and two hours earlier by the end of the month. Its host constellation this year is Leo the lion. By the end of the month it closes to within about a fist’s width, or 8 degrees from Leo’s bright first magnitude star, Regulus. With a moderate telescope, you can see plenty of detail of Jupiter. Cloud bands, the giant red spot, and shadows from Jupiter’s four major moons are all visible on clear and steady nights. As Jupiter climbs higher in the southeast before dawn, Mercury pops above the horizon about 45 minutes before the sun. If you look for Mercury through binoculars you will spot it sitting right next to Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. Venus and Saturn are too close November 2014 | The Good Life

to the sun from our view to be seen in November. Both will be visible in December. Venus will hang low in the evening while Saturn will climb above the horizon before dawn. The Leonid meteor shower will peak on Nov. 17, allowing observers under dark skies to see up to 15 meteors per hour in the early morning hours of the 17th and 18th. The visibility rate is just an educated guess. There have been many variations during the past several years. Fortunately, a waning crescent moon will not affect prime viewing hours after midnight. Visiting a strange and new environment Ten year ago the European Space Agency, with key support from NASA, launched a spacecraft called Rosetta. Named after the ancient Rosetta Stone, the spacecraft has been on a 10 year journey to catch up to and rendezvous with Comet 67P/ChuryumovGerasimenko. Rosetta isn’t the first probe to encounter a comet. The Europeans, Japanese, Americans and Soviet Union have all visited seven different comets over the last 30 years, but it is the first to orbit a comet. Previous missions have been flybys providing grainy images during closest approaches. This time during its 17-month orbital mission at comet 67P, www.ncwgoodlife.com

Rosetta will record fulllength videos in high definition quality. Rosetta is not the only probe to visit 67P. Attached to one side of the spacecraft is a lander called Philae, which is set to touch down on the comet’s surface this month. With both Rosetta and the lander, scientists will map the comet’s entire surface, study the object’s chemical and mineralogical makeup, and analyze the gases and dust particles as the surface ice turns from solid to gas from the sun’s heat. In March 2005, in its 10-year chase to catch 67P, Rosetta orbited the sun and caught up with earth and executed the first of three gravity assists to pick up speed and catch the comet. In February 2007, Rosetta executed a flyby of Mars for additional speed, and then in November 2009 it executed its final gravity assist from Earth and was on its way to 67P. Rosetta will be with 67P as it approaches the sun, and researchers will be able to see and record changes in the comet as it travels around the sun. Rosetta has traveled more than 3.7 billion miles to 67P, orbiting the sun six times on its journey. Those of us who were around at the beginning of the Space Age can remember how incredible the whole space race was. Back then, who would have thought that we could send a spaceship several billions of miles and have it take a picture of a comet from 60 miles away? I can’t wait for images from the lander. Check the Internet for lots of pictures. Peter Lind is a local amateur astronomer. He can be reached at ppjl@ juno.com.

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}}} Continued from previous page Top String, 11/15, 7:30 p.m. This regional family band of young and accomplished pickers and singers is ambitious and holds high expectations for putting on the best show possible. One of the best of the up and coming bluegrass bands. Cashmere Riverside Center. Cost: $3 at the door and pass the hat. Info: cashmerecoffeehouse.com. Compassionate Friends, 11/17, 7 – 8:30 p.m. A grief support group that helps assist families dealing with a death of a child. Grace Lutheran Church, 1408 Washington St. Cost: free. Info: tcfwenatcheevalley.org.

Ground Operations, 11/18, 7 p.m. Environmental film series. An ensemble of young men and women who tell us why they joined the military, how the war changed them, how they’ve struggled to return home and ultimately, how they found organic farming and ranching to be the answer to a dream. Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center. Cost: free (with a $5 suggested donation). Snow Dance, 11/20, 5:30 – 9 p.m. Leavenworth Winter Sports Club fundraiser. Dinner, live and silent auction, libations, entertainment including a Snow Dance that will lead to a very white winter. Proceeds benefit the junior Nordic ski team. Enzian Inn, Leavenworth. Cost: $45. Info: skileavenworth. Film Series: Skylight, 11/20, 7 p.m. An NT live re-broadcast from

the National Theatre in London. School teacher Kyra receives an unexpected visit from her former lover. The two attempt to rekindle their relationship only to find themselves locked in a dangerous battle of opposing ideologies and mutual desires. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $10 advance, $13 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Festival of Trees, 11/20-22. Large, beautifully embellished Christmas trees will decorate the Numerica PAC’s lobby, along with mini-trees, wreaths and a Festival Land of local vendors. Online silent auction 11/8-

>> RANDOM QUOTE

In the book of life every page has two sides: we human beings fill the upper side with our plans, hopes and wishes, but providence writes on the other side, and what it ordains is seldom our goal. Nisami 40

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| November 2014

23 at festivaloftrees2014.auctionbid.org. Holiday Spice, 11/20, 7 p.m. Concert features the area’s best performers, saluting the season in their own talented way. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $25/$29 adults, $21/$25 seniors, $19/$23 youth. Info: numericapac. org. Four Minutes of Fame, 11/20, 7 9 p.m. Open mic for a local writers. Its fun, informal and free. Upper East Side Coffee Company at Grant and Kentucky, East Wenatchee. Info and sign up: writeontheriver.org. Holiday Open House, 11/21-22, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Upper Valley Museum, 347 Division St. Leavenworth. Info: 548-0728. Little Black Dress Party, 11/21, 6 p.m. Ladies only night for 21 and older. Enjoy small local bites, win prizes, play games, photo booth, free massages, toast with classy drinks and dance the night away. Theme is Midnight in Paris. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $25. Info: numericapac.org. Pianist Joe Groves, 11/21, 6 – 8 p.m. You’ve never heard the piano played like this before. Live performance. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. Washington’s Wildlife in

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The Art Life

// SKETCHES OF LOCAL ARTISTS

“For me, the only good thing about (writing) is reading my perfectly polished final draft. I love that part.”

Forged through dogged determination Neighbors strolling past

Theresa Monsey’s home are drawn to the wall of roses covering her front fence, their sweet scent and circus of color. Flower gardening is a relatively new pursuit for her, but dogs have been in her life a long while. She trains and shows purebred Golden Retrievers, and the at-home pack, ranging in age from 10 years to 6 months, keeps her more than occupied. This lady with the flowers and dogs, a former bookkeeper, has a professional life that is essentially private but extremely public. Not a contradiction. She’s a published writer, and that’s a quiet indoor sport. But, known to her fans as Trish McCallan, she has in the past three years fulfilled a dream and continuously honed her craft. She has captured a worldwide audience of fiction readers, won some prestigious awards and has been able to, as she puts it succinctly, “Quit my day job.” One of her books, translated into German, prompted the question, “My mom speaks German. Do you think she’d like your books?” To which Theresa candidly replied, “Only if she doesn’t mind a lot of swearing, sex and violence.” Oh. That kind of fiction. Theresa, a storyteller since childhood, writes Romantic Thrillers, a publishing category

Theresa Monsey: Swearing, sex and violence — plus humans prevailing over tragedy, in English, German and on CD.

with a wide and voracious audience of book buyers. She is adept at creating plots and characters that give her readers fast-paced intrigue. “I’d say my books run about 40 percent romance and 60 percent thriller,” she estimated. “And there’s ‘hot sex’ in only about 10 of 400 pages. They’re all pretty much dark and gritty, but they are based on humans prevailing over tragedy.” Her sudden rise to popularity and financial independence came very fast to this 59-yearold writer, but not soon. Again — that’s not a contradiction. In September 2011 she selfpublished Forged in Fire, using several online platforms. (A brief blurb: “Beth and Zane join forces to thwart the global crisis the hijacking will unleash...”) November 2014 | The Good Life

By November it had earned her $10,000. Within four months she’d sold 20,000 copies, enough to catch the canny eye of Amazon Publishing, who soon after bought the rights and started publishing her under their Montlake imprint, a Romance category. She continues to write for them, with two different series, a novel and a box set in the pipeline. And the royalties from each successive single book keep rolling in. Lest anyone think that writing fiction novels came easily, Theresa warns, “I spent 10 years writing three hours a day, every single morning, before I went to my job.” Her early college work in literature and creative writing were helpful, but they weren’t a ticket to success. www.ncwgoodlife.com

She’s frank about the tedious process. “I absolutely hate writing first drafts. They never read like what I imagined. And, frankly, writing in this genre is emotionally draining. For me, the only good thing about it is reading my perfectly polished final draft. I love that part.” Her writing doesn’t happen in complete isolation. She’s in constant contact with her publishers, she attends (and presents) at industry conventions, blogs on her website, and is co-host of a self-publishing round table, a video/audio podcast. More locally, she joined a Moses Lake writers group, is on the board of directors of Wenatchee-based writing organization, Write On The River, and willingly shares valuable advice with newer writers on publishing tactics — the perils and pitfalls — plus, of course, how to make it happen. Raised in the Wenatchee Valley for 40 years, Theresa/Trish is currently living in Warden, but plans to return to Leavenworth to be near family. With a solid contract, a year of writing ahead of her (with a few books tentatively plotted and a few to keep on editing) she can take some time to enjoy her garden, her dogs, and especially the camaraderie of other writers. — by Susan Lagsdin Read more about Theresa Monsey/ Trish McCallan at www.trishmccallan.com

2014-15 Wenatchee Valley Environmental Film Series November 18, 2014 7:00 pm Wenatchee Valley Museum 127 S Mission, Wenatchee

Ground Operations follows an ensemble of young men and women who tell us why they joined the military, how the war changed them, how they’ve struggled to return home and ultimately, how they found organic farming and ranching to be the answer to a dream. These veterans blow the lid off any stereotypes, and you’ll be rooting for them all the way to your local farmers market. Movie sponsored by

Series presented by

The event is free ($5 suggested donation).

509-888-6240 | www.wvmcc.org

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}}} Continued from page 40 a Changing Climate, 11/21, 7 p.m. Dr. Meade Krosby, with UW’s Climate Impacts Group, will discuss observed and predicted future changes in the distribution and composition of Washington’s wildlife and ecosystems, what scientists and land and wildlife managers are doing to promote the resilience of Washington’s wildlife and natural landscapes, and what you can do to help. Wenatchee River Institute at Barn Beach Reserve, 347 Division Street, Leavenworth. Opera Series: Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, 11/22, 9:55 a.m. Snowy Owl Theater. Cost: $20 advance or $24 at the door. Info: icicle.org. Snowfest, 11/22, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Festhalle Leavenworth PAC Gala Auction, 11/22, 5 p.m. The evening begins with a cocktail hour in the lobby followed by a multi-course dinner by Richard and Ashley Kitos. Live auction hosted

by Seattle auctioneer John Curley. All proceeds benefit the PAC. Numerica Performing Arts Center. Cost: $75 or $750 table. Info: numericapac.org. Pack Walks, 11/23, 12/28, 1/25, 2/22, 3/22 and 4/26, 3 p.m. Bring your friends and dogs on leashes and walk the riverfront trail. Meet on the loop behind Pybus Market at the boat launch. Info: wenatcheefido.org. Banff Mountain Film Festival, 11/25, 6 – 10:30 p.m. Festhalle, Leavenworth. Info: skileavenworth. com. Fowl Play 5k, 11/27, 9 a.m. Start at the gazebo in downtown Leavenworth. Register by Nov. 20 at brownpapertickets.com. Turkey on the Run, 11/27, 9 a.m. 12k, 5k and kids race. Start and finish at Rotary Park on Western Ave. Info: runwenatchee.com. Christkindlmarkt, 11/28-30, 10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. A Bavarian-style Christmas Markt. Includes crafts, a lantern parade and Santa Claus as well as the Christkind and St. Nicholas. Downtown City Park and Festhalle, Leavenworth. Info: christ-

Journey to Bethlehem Dec. 4 - 7

kindlmarktleavenworth.com. Holiday Lighting Ceremony, 11/28, 5:30 p.m. Pybus Public Market. Cost: free. Info: pybuspublicmarket.org. Journey to Bethlehem, 12/4-7, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Experience the town of Bethlehem as it was the night the Christ Child was born. The journey includes over 150 actors and supporting casting in full costume and a living nativity with sheep, goats, donkeys chickens and a camel. Dress appropriately for the weather. Seventh-day Adventist Church, 5th and Western. Cost: free. Info: j2bwenatchee.org. Worldwide Candle Lighting, 12/14, 6:30 p.m. The Compassionate Friends 18th Annual Worldwide Candle Lighting to honor the memory of children who have died at any age from any cause. This tribute creates a virtual wave of light around the globe, transcending all ethnic, cultural, religious, and political boundaries. There is no charge to attend, but donations to support this mission will be accepted. Church of the Nazarene, 1011 S Miller, Wenatchee. Info: 8603620 or tcfwenatcheecvalley.org.

2014 N UMERICA

FESTIVAL TREES of

5th & Western, Wenatchee

W E N AT C H E E

Online Reserved Tours 5:30 to 9:30 Walk-in Tours 5:30 to 8:30 Anyone arriving by 8:30 can attend.

Please dress appropriately for the weather.

This event is FREE!

A gift from your valley Seventh-day Adventist Churches

Reserve your tour time online - J2BWENATCHEE.ORG

Experience the town of Bethlehem as it was the night the Christ Child was born. The Journey includes over 150 Actors and Supporting Cast in Full Costume and a Living Nativity with Sheep, Goats, Donkeys, Chickens and... a Camel!

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| November 2014

column those were the days

rod molzahn

‘Hey pal, round here, they call me...’ The stories of early pioneer

times in North Central Washington are filled with many remarkable and memorable characters. No surprise then that they bring with them a wealth of colorful monikers that reflect the origin or appearance or occupation and often personality

traits of the person who wears the name. The Wenatchee Valley’s first settler is still referred to as “Dutch John” Galler. In the 1860s the upper valley had “Big Antoine” or sometimes “Black Antoine” Etienne, an exslave and interpreter of Indian languages for the army after the civil war. Antoine placer mined

on a small Peshastin Creek tributary, later called Negro Creek, where, it was said, he recovered $1,000 in gold dust and nuggets in one mining season. He also mined on the Entiat River where he enlisted the help of local Indians to keep white miners away from his claims. Ed Ferguson was a civic presence in Wenatchee for over

60 years and was fondly called “The Wenatchee Kid.” He served as chief of the town’s first uniformed police force and at one time acted as police chief, fire chief and county sheriff all together. He played bass drum in

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Fall Wine Dinner PaIring Series Join us in Kingfisher Restaurant for an evening that will delight the senses. Savor a four course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Joshua Holmes, complemented by four great wines.

Call 509-548-6344 for reservations today or visit sleepinglady.com for more information including menu.

November 2014 | The Good Life

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THOSE WERE THE DAYS }}} Continued from previous page the town’s first brass band and opened the city’s first playhouse at Columbia and Palouse streets presenting boxing matches, dances, concerts and plays. The “Kid” was known to take a part, himself, in some of the plays. Monitor had “Deak” Brown, that area’s first settler, and his neighbor, George “Sorghum” Richardson, known for the fine molasses he made from the sorghum he grew next to his apple trees. “King” Kennedy, a Chelan farmer, was known throughout north central Washington and into British Columbia. Every fall he loaded his wagon and took his traveling show on the road. He was a skilled magician and a talented ventriloquist with talking dolls and puppets that amazed young and old alike. Audiences marveled at Kennedy’s magic lantern images and thrilled when he brought the first moving pictures to the area with his hand-cranked projector and one-reel shows. The high plateau of Waterville and the Big Bend country claimed men named “Eel River Jim,” Rattlesnake Jack,” “Lying

Bob,” “Swearing Jack,” “Dancing Bill,” “Old Grizzly,” “Taters,” “Texas Rourke,” “Portuguese Joe,” “Goose-necked Johnson” and “Shacknasty Bill.” Those are all melodious and evocative names but they cannot match the collection claimed by Okanogan County. It all started with the first settler on the U.S. side of the border along Lake Osoyoos, Hiram “Okanogan” Smith. He was followed by “Okanogan Bill” Hanscomb and “Buckskin” Johnson. There was “Kittitas George” Smith from Ellensburg, “Cayuse” Brown from the Walla Walla country and “Wild Goose Bill” Condon who spent some time in the Wenatchee Valley before heading north about 1873. L.C. Malott, founder of the town that bears his name was such a trusted friend of the Indians that they called him “Tyee” Malott. “Kentucky Nate” Tallant lost several hundred fine horses in the “Hard Winter” of 1889/90. Tallant Creek, a tributary of the Okanogan River is named for him. “Virginia Bill” Covington lived at Silver Bar on the Columbia

“Tennessee Jack” shared the county with “Texas George” Runnels, also called “Tenas George” for his diminutive stature and “Yellowstone Jim,” who was once arrested in Conconully for “inelegant” language... near the mouth of the Okanogan River in 1877 and in 1890 ran the store at Virginia City (now Brewster). “Tennessee Jack” shared the county with “Texas George” Runnels, also called “Tenas George” for his diminutive stature and “Yellowstone Jim,” who was once arrested in Conconully for “inelegant” language in the presence of the Elliot sisters. He provided a free keg of whiskey to the jury and was acquitted. “Dutch Jake” Niederaurer came to the Okanogan in 1883. He tried his hand at mining for

a time then settled near Salmon City (now Conconully). He was a friend of the Indians and believed, as they did, that ground hog oil was a “cure-all,” especially valuable as a hair restorer. At the age of 77 “Dutch Jake” claimed he could still harvest 15 tons of hay in a summer season with a long-handled scythe. “Big Foot” Allen was the stage driver between Loomis and Conconully and “Cranky Frank” handled the run between Conconully and Ruby. “Cranky Frank” gained fame on a day he was coming down the steep grade into Conconully. He spotted a suspicious man standing alone by a tree and, fearing a hold-up, told his passenger to get under the seat then whipped the horses into a breakneck plunge down the road that left the would-be high-way man standing in the dust. “Shorty” Morin had been a railroad engineer and brakeman before settling in the Okanogan where he operated laundries in Loomis, Oro(ville) and the town of Okanogan. “Cowboy Jimmie” ran cattle near Oro and “Sunrise Jack” owned the Sunrise Mine near Conconully. “Apache Jim” Blaine had been Major Blaine when he commanded troops in battles with

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“The Wild Coyote” stole Nespelem George’s race horse and galloped through the crowd shooting. Apache Indians across the southwest. “Doc” Cutting was a Conconully jeweler and Horace L. “Chickamin” Stone was the original founder of the town of Silver on the Methow River

about three-quarters mile from the mouth of Beaver Creek. “Chickamin” was a Chinook jargon word for money or trade goods. Pokamiakin was an Okanogan area Indian also known as “The Wild Coyote.” Feared by both Indians and whites, he was violent, especially when drunk, and had killed several men. Fresh from a gunfight with the county sheriff, he walked into the 1890, 4th of July celebration at Ruby. When the sheriff tried to arrest him bullets flew. “The Wild Coyote” stole Nespelem George’s race horse and galloped through the crowd

shooting. Others shot back hitting Pokamiakin and his horse. Bill Tiffany grabbed the Indian by the hair and pulled him to the ground. The only injuries were the bullet wound in the Indian’s arm and Nespelem George’s horse that fell mortally wounded. “The Wild Coyote” was arrested and jailed. His Klootch (wife) climbed the steep hillside above the town, stripped to the waist and danced a “war dance.” The appreciative miners below responded by taking the keys and letting the Indian out of jail. The sheriff, in disgust, resigned. At the trial “The Wild Coyote”

was acquitted and the county was ordered to pay his doctor bill and pay Nespelem George for his dead horse. Not long after that “Black Jack” LaBlau shot and killed Jeff Taylor on the Similkameen River in a fight over the woman called “Little Ella.” Historian, actor and teacher Rod Molzahn can be reached at shake.speak@frontier.com. His third history CD, Legends & Legacies Vol. III - Stories of Wenatchee and North Central Washington, is now available at the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center and at other locations throughout the area.

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ALEX SALIBY

A good Chardonnay: It’s all about style Chardonnay stands now

as the fifth most popular wine grape planted in the world. It’s a native of France — the offspring of Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc — and was cultivated sometime in the early 19th Century. In the Sept. 25 Washington Wine Report, Sean Sullivan said, “There is no question that Chardonnay is in the midst of a renaissance in the Northwest.” I could go on for a few thousand pages about this, but I’m going to focus on the two principal styles of the wines from the grape and its 34 clones: the Chablis styles and the Côte de Beaune styles of Meursault. The Chardonnay wines of Chablis are principally fermented and aged without the influence from new oak barrels. Most of the wines, in fact, are aged in stainless steel after initial fermentation, although a great many are also aged in “neutral” oak, meaning the oak barrels have been used so often they no longer impart any of the oak tanins or other aromatic characteristics. Also, many Chardonnay wines from Chablis do not undergo the secondary fermentation. As a result of this winemaking style, Chablis wines tend to be lighter in color and have a more delicate, less viscous feel in your mouth. Too, they almost always show a crisp acidity on the finish. In contrast, the great wines of the Côte de Beaune are typically aged in new French oak barrels and are encouraged to undergo that secondary fermentation. Here’s your wine chemistry lesson for today. Primary fermentation is when the yeast in the grape juice converts the

sugar present to alcohol. Secondary fermentation is the chemical process during which the malic acid is chemically changed into lactic acid. The oak barrel aging ads both color and aromas to the wines, and that secondary fermentation changes the wine’s mouthfeel. Meursault-style Chardonnay wines are darker, more A ‘37 Cellars 2013 Chardonnay overlooking the wingolden in color, ery’s Riesling crop. and have a creamior so ago, when Cameron was er textured mouthfeel sometimes referred to as the pouring tastes in a small tasting room in the town of George. As “buttery” note on the finish. we talked, I learned that CamThe rest of the world outside eron even prefers neutral oak of France, and including wineries in north central Washington, vessels for all his wines, includhave duplicated the two distinc- ing his red wines. Ryan-Patrick Vineyards Native French styles: stainless steel ked Chardonnay — Now, on or “neutral” aged and new oak this one I confess to having a barrel aged. preference for the 2012 because I’ve compiled here a short list it has not undergone the secof my favorites of both styles ondary fermentation. The 2013 from our local wineries, as both has undergone a full secondary can be found here. fermentation and was aged on the crushed grape skins called Chablis Styled Chardonnay lees. That aging on the skins ’37 Cellars 2013 Chardonand the secondary fermentation nay — Chuck Egner and Frank add aromas and viscosity I’d Dechaine for the second year prefer to find in my Meursaultin a row have bottled an almost style wines. This 2013 wine is pure Chablis blanc (yes, there beautifully done, and shows is also vin rouge in Chablis). Of these aromatic and mouth-feel the Chablis styles from NCW, characteristics. this one is my personal favorite. White Heron Cellars Char Côte de Beaune, donnay — Here, any vintage Meursault-style year will work. I remind you Chelan Ridge 2013 Chardonall that Cameron Fries is an nay — Of all the Washington avid supporter of neutral ferstate Chardonnays with which mentation vessels. I recall our I have some degree of familiarfirst meeting, some 23 years

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ity, this is head and shoulders my favorite. The grapes are 100 percent estate grown, Lake Chelan AVA, and from them Lynn and Henry Munneke have created a delightful Meursault-style wine. Kudos to both of them for having planted and tended those grapes, and for having carefully turned the harvested fruit into this delightful wine. Karma Vineyards 2011 Chardonnay — Ok, this was a close battle for me between the Karma Chardonnay and the Chelan Ridge. I can’t begin to explain why I swing toward Chelan Ridge’s wine over Karma’s, as both wines are worth their price and worth your enjoying with a meal soon. Here’s a thought — buy one of each and taste them together with friends to see if there’s a preference at your table. Tildio Winery 2013 Chardonnay — Here again is a beautifully crafted Burgundy-styled wine, barrel aged with grace and style. All three of the wines in this style of Chardonnay are from Chelan, and two of the three are made from Lake Chelan AVA grapes; all are done in the classic style of the wines of Meursault from the Cote de Beaune region of Burgundy. As for selecting a favorite overall, my wife reminded me that just as we can’t choose a favorite child or grandchild, it is difficult to select a favorite here, for we love them all. Alex Saliby is a wine lover who spends far too much time reading about the grapes, the process of making wine and the wines themselves. He can be contacted at alex39@msn.com.

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