City jewels shine bright under summer sun

What a glorious time of year and how blessed we are to wake up to the beauty all around this 100-yearold city. The color pops of pink, lavender, yellow and blue across the Longview landscape on the old growth trees and bushes is astounding. Can we all agree that Longview is a gorgeous place to live any season of the year?

Recently while speaking with a group of Longview Pioneer Lions Club members, I reiterated the gems we have here in our city. There are so many, and they are worth repeating.

Gem No. 1: Lake Sacajawea

This crown jewel of our city, like the natural stone opal, shines brighter as more light descends upon it. Of course, this is where many of our city events take place throughout the year, especially during the summer months. Lake Sacajawea has three incredible playgrounds, 3.5 miles of jogging/biking or walking trail paths, restrooms, kayak/paddle board launch, fishing, Japanese Garden, Lion’s Shelter, a Solar System Walk, Harlie’s Hoops, and the Elks Memorial building, which houses our after-school program.

Hundreds of individuals from all over the community will gather at the lake this summer for our Go-4th Celebration from July 2-4. After our Fourth of July events, the outdoor concerts at the lake series runs July 6, 13, 20, 27 and Aug. 3 and 10. Featuring a mix of country, rock-n-roll, and oldies from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, the concerts are sponsored by Kirkpatrick Family Care and numerous other generous donors. Following the concert series, enjoy family movies at the lake at Martin’s Dock Aug. 17, 24 and 31. Bring your kids, a blanket or chairs and groove on!

Gem No. 2: Downtown Longview

Longview’s historic downtown is another bright jewel with its eclectic mix of fabulous restaurants, distinctive storefronts, and quaint shops housed in historic buildings and surrounded by 23 stunning outdoor sculptures from outstanding artists. Our downtown business owners are top-notch and ready to serve you. Visit the Columbia Theater or Stageworks for performances, hop on RiverCity Transit, stroll along the street and see the beautiful historic banners, lighting and bricked intersections. Downtown also features a Tuesday Farmers Market during the summer.

Gem No. 3: Location. Location. Location

R.A. Long had it right when he built this community where he did – surrounded by water. With the Columbia River and Willow Grove Park on the west and the Cowlitz River and Riverside Park on the east, manmade Lake Sacajawea (formerly Fowler’s Slough) in the center of the city, and a total of 17 city parks in

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City of Kelso

Mike Karnofski Mayor