Out There Monthly June 08

MONTHLY

I N LA O UTD

THE INLAND NORTHWEST GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION // JUNE 2008 // VOL. 4, NO. 9

ND N

JU N W E OOR C

( P G . 0 A LE N D A R 0)

p: 13 RICH LANDERS TALKS NW PADDLING p: 18 HOW DID BIOFUELS GO WRONG? p: 11 THE ULTIMATE UTILITY BIKE p: 26 THE TRAGEDY AND THE CHARITY RACE

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p: 20 WHAT’S YOUR GEAR? ROCK CLIMBING AND BOULDERING

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JUNE 2008

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in this issue p.5 / From the Editor Video Games Vs. Basalt

11

13

p.6 / Out There News Uranium Miners Sought, Free Hiking Series, New Tree Program

p.11 / Everyday Cyclist The Ultimate Utility Bike

By John Speare

14

p.12 / Roadtrips Vacation Race Ideas, Rich Landers On Northwest Paddling

By Ben Greenfield and Derrick Knowles

p.14 / Take a race vacation Where To Go For Great Triathlons And Marathons In The Northwest

By Angie Dierdorff & Jon Snyder

MONTHLY Out There Monthly / JUNE 2008 Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Jon Snyder jon@outtheremonthly.com Art Director

Kaitlin Snyder kaitlin@outtheremonthly.com Sustainability editor

p.17 / Health & Fitness Back and Neck Pain From Cycling

By Susan Barrett, DC

Juliet Sinisterra juliet@outtheremonthly.com Health & Fitness Editor

Dr. Bob Lutz senior writer

Derrick Knowles

p.18 / Sustainable Living How Did Biofuels Go Wrong?

By Argyle Baukol

Contributing Writers:

Argyle Baukol, Susan Barrett, Michael Campbell, Mira Copeland, Angie Diedorff, Ashley Graham, Ben Greenfield, Jon Jonckers, Dr. Bob Lutz, Amy Silbernagel McCaffree, Stan Miller, John Speare Distribution Coordinator

p.24 / What’s Your Gear?

Ben Larkin: Sport Climbing

By Mira Copeland

p.25 / MUSIC Reviews & Upcoming shows The Ting Tings, Firewater, Death Cab For Cutie, The Fleet Foxes, Boris

p.20 / Book Reviews Two Everest Books From The 2006 Season And Under a Green Sky

p.26 / JUNE INLAND NW OUTDOOR CAlendar & Six Month Training Calendar p.30 / The Last Page

Barbara Snyder To request issues please call 509 / 534 / 3347 Ad Sales

Angie Dierdorff: 509 / 869 / 9438 Out There Monthly

Mailing Address: PO Box 559 Spokane, WA 99210 www.outtheremonthly.com, 509 / 534 / 3347 Out There Monthly is published once a month

by Snyderco DBA/Out There Monthly. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 2008 Snyderco DBA/Out There Monthly.

The views expressed in this magazine reflect those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily Snyderco DBA/Out There Monthly.

Disclaimer: Many of the activities depicted in this magazine carry a significant risk of personal injury or death. Rock climbing, river rafting, snow sports, kayaking, cycling, canoeing and backcountry activities are inherently dangerous. The owners and contributors to Out There Monthly do not recommend that anyone participate in these activities unless they are experts or seek qualified professional instruction and/or guidance, and are knowledgeable about the risks, and are personally willing to assume all responsibility associated with those risks.

Printed on 50% recycled paper with soy based inks in the Inland Northwest Proud member of

From Tragedy To Charity Race: The Story Behind The Justin C. Haeger Ten-Mile Memorial Run

By Jon Jonckers

On the coverCyclists at the pacific crest triathlon in sunriver, or. // photo bob woodward. Inset photo: climber ben larkin.

JUNE 2008

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Out There Monthly

FROM THE EDITOR: Video games Vs. Basalt Am I traitor to the cause of everything outdoors because I like to play video games with my son? At the Outdoor Industry Association breakfast last January I was admonished that video games were some of the biggest competition that outdoor activities faced for kid’s attention. I don’t want my kids be the “last children in the woods. “ But I look at video games as something akin to alcohol. It’s sexy, fun, everybody’s doing it—and I want to make sure my kids establish a good relationship with these vices. That could mean abstaining completely. But if that means paren-

tally mandated abstaining it might mean they go off the deep end as soon as they get some freedom. Beer bongs? Forty-eight hour Warcraft sessions? I knew kids like that in college. Not pretty.

The same weekend that we bought Star Wars: Battlefront II for the PS2 my son and I also went rock climbing at a local crag for the first time. I basically started this magazine so I could have experiences like this. It was the perfect union of athletics and nature. We saw a baby snake, a huge owl, and some wild turkeys. We were able to overcome getting eaten alive by bugs to do a few moves on an amazing cliff face. The excite-

ment my son had at hoisting himself up to the summit of a 100-foot pile of rock was different was then the excitement of putting a new game in the Playstation for the first time. It was an awe-inspiring moment for him—deeply felt and long-lasting.

I can’t make my kids like things, but I can work hard to plant the seed of future interest.

Climbing, cycling, camping, kayaking, snowsports and soccer are all great pursuits that will stay with a kid for a lifetime if their initial encounters are positive.

We’re still playing Battlefront II. I’m still wres-

tling with how to regulate his video game usage and monitor how it affects him. I also think about how it affects me. Why, after a frustrating day at work, does it feel so good to conquer a level? I know that the key for both of us is balance. If I can show him outdoor experiences that are powerful, such as scaling ancient basalt, cathode ray entertainment is going to have a hard time competing. // ----------------------------------------------------JON SNYDER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Download a pdf copy of our latest issue at www.outtheremonthly.com

Explore the beautiful wild lands of northeast Washington with us on a free, guided day hike!

All Saturdays, except Jungle Hill, Sunday, June 22. Carpool option available from Spokane. All hikes are led by experienced, volunteer hike leaders.

For details and to register, contact crystal@conservationnw.org or (509) 570-2166. Group size is limited; register early!

Day Hikes, June through August June 7—Thirteen Mile Creek from the Sanpoil River, 8 miles, moderate June 14—Columbia Mountain Lookout, 6 miles, moderate June 22—Jungle Hill to Columbia Mt., 14 miles, very challenging July 12—Hoodoo Canyon & Emerald Lake, 6 miles, moderate July 19—Clackamas Mountain, 8 miles, challenging July 26 —Abercrombie Mt. to Hooknose, 9 miles, very challenging Aug 2—Grassy Top from Pass Creek Pass, 8 miles, moderate Aug 9—Sherman Peak Loop, 6 miles, moderate Aug 16—Hall Mountain, 6 miles, very challenging Aug 23—Wapaloosie Mountain, 6 miles, challenging

6th Annual Kettle Range Rendezvous, June 28-29 You’re invited on this popular weekend of hiking led by Conservation Northwest staff, followed by a potluck and BBQ around the campfire and car camping under the stars in the Kettle Range Mountains. Free. Newcomers welcome!

RSVP required: crystal@conservationnw.org or (509) 570-2166

Summer hike series cosponsors:

For more information about the Columbia Highlands hikes and how to get involved in helping to protect these special places, please visit Conservation Northwest online at

www.conservationnw.org

n r u b r o Th Elect Dr. Kim Runninglthy for Hea ent Governm

Disoctrratict 1 Dem

work to: l il w I r, e n ommissio C y t n u o re served entities pokane C le growth a S s r t u n o e y id s s b A a re nt te sustain overnment so all among governme o m o r P • g n re county y and cooperatio u t c u r t S • nsparenc a r t r e t s o •F www.VoteDrKim.com • (509) 599-6721 Paid for by: Kim Thorburn for Commissioner, PO Box 48068, Spokane, WA, 99228-1068

JUNE 2008

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Out There Monthly

FROM THE EDITOR: Video games Vs. Basalt Even though I’ve always been fond of referring to Out There Monthly as a “regional version of Outside magazine,” nobody is going mistake me for a hardcore backwoods hardman. I won’t be giving Mark Jenkins or Hampton Sides a run for their money anytime soon. Grizzy Adamstypes out there probably gave up on Outside years ago and switched to more dignified vessels

for wilderness adventure like Mountain Gazzette.

Not me.

I read Outside because it is the standard bearer for the entire outdoor industry, and historically they’ve had terrific writers.

(Including the Inland Northwest’s own Nick Heil, former editor of the Sandpoint based precursor to OTM called Pursuit.) The magazine has always had a knack

for publishing articles depicting how the great issues of our time play out in our outdoor pursuits.

Last year’s piece on partying and pollution at Everest base camp is a great example.

But the March 2008 issue reached a tipping point. For years the magazine has been inserting more Men’s Health-style orgasms and aftershave content. Now Outside has unapologetically

crossed over to being a male version of Cosmpolitan with more nature photography and slightly less ad pages.

On the cover is Kelly Slater. No Jack Johnson. Kelly Johnson, Jack Slater—can the United States produce enough surf-rock/rock surf stars to fill the remaining 9 of Outside’s 2008 covers? Hopefully surfer Laird Hamilton will have to win a Nobel

Explore the beautiful wild lands of northeast Washington with us on a free, guided day hike!

All Saturdays, except Jungle Hill, Sunday, June 22. Carpool option available from Spokane. All hikes are led by experienced, volunteer hike leaders.

For details and to register, contact crystal@conservationnw.org or (509) 570-2166. Group size is limited; register early!

Day Hikes, June through August June 7—Thirteen Mile Creek from the Sanpoil River, 8 miles, moderate June 14—Columbia Mountain Lookout, 6 miles, moderate June 22—Jungle Hill to Columbia Mt., 14 miles, very challenging July 12—Hoodoo Canyon & Emerald Lake, 6 miles, moderate July 19—Clackamas Mountain, 8 miles, challenging July 26 —Abercrombie Mt. to Hooknose, 9 miles, very challenging Aug 2—Grassy Top from Pass Creek Pass, 8 miles, moderate Aug 9—Sherman Peak Loop, 6 miles, moderate Aug 16—Hall Mountain, 6 miles, very challenging Aug 23—Wapaloosie Mountain, 6 miles, challenging

6th Annual Kettle Range Rendezvous, June 28-29 You’re invited on this popular weekend of hiking led by Conservation Northwest staff, followed by a potluck and BBQ around the campfire and car camping under the stars in the Kettle Range Mountains. Free. Newcomers welcome!

RSVP required: crystal@conservationnw.org or (509) 570-2166

Summer hike series cosponsors:

For more information about the Columbia Highlands hikes and how to get involved in helping to protect these special places, please visit Conservation Northwest online at

www.conservationnw.org

n r u b r o Th Elect Dr. Kim Runninglthy for Hea ent Governm

Disoctrratict 1 Dem

work to: l il w I r, e n ommissio C y t n u o re served entities pokane C le growth a S s r t u n o e y id s s b A a re nt te sustain overnment so all among governme o m o r P • g n re county y and cooperatio u t c u r t S • nsparenc a r t r e t s o •F www.VoteDrKim.com • (509) 599-6721 Paid for by: Kim Thorburn for Commissioner, PO Box 48068, Spokane, WA, 99228-1068

JUNE 2008

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news chunks On Tuesday, June 3 at 7PM, join paddling experts and co-authors Rich Landers and Dan Hansen for a free event at REI Spokane, where they will share useful tips on the paddling trips in the area. Beginning paddlers and experts alike will learn about routes suitable for their needs and experience level. Drawing from their latest comprehensive guidebook, Paddling Washington: Flatwater and Whitewater Routes in Washington State and the Inland Northwest, these writers will inspire any day-tripper or overnighter to dig their gear out of the garage and start paddling. (See our Landers interview on page 13). Slideshow and Q&A followed by book signing.

The Millwood Farmers’ Market is now open for the season. The market is open Wednesdays through September in the parking lot of Millwood Presbyterian Church at 3223 North Marguerite Rd, at the corner of Euclid and Marguerite, two blocks west of Argonne Rd. Over 30 vendors sell items and, according to organizers there will be plenty of bluegrass and roots music each week. The rules of the market state that all vendors must grow, produce or craft all products sold at the market. Farmers must grow the fruit and produce on their land and crafts must be manufactured by the seller with their own hands.

There are no wholesale goods. Shopping at the market directly supports local farmers and artisans. Check it out.

The Missoula Marathon and its partner Southgate Mall are hoping to get 2,008 race participants to enter and cross the finish line in the 2008 races this July. As an incentive to achieve this goal and to encourage early registration, the first 2,008 racers to sign up for one of the Marathon events will be entered into a drawing for $2,008 in Southgate Mall Gift Cards. The first 2,008 people who enter the Missoula Marathon, Missoula Half Marathon, Marathon Relay or Missoula Kids Marathon are eligible for the drawing. All 2,008 names will be placed in a bowl and the winning name will be drawn at the awards ceremony on July 13th. “Athletes have a tendency to wait until the last minute to register,” explained race director Jennifer Straughan, “and we’re very excited about reaching our goal of 2,008 participants this year, so we thought we’d give people extra motivation to register earlier than they would normally. All a person has to do in order to be in the drawing is be among the first 2,008 registrants in any of the races associated with the Missoula Marathon.” See more info on the Marathon our story on page 14.

Brenda Christensen, a 42 yr old mother of two from Athol, Idaho, won the Spokane Trailquest Mt. Bike Orienteering event at Newman Lake, April 27, 2008, scoring a perfect 420 points and getting all 24 check points. It wasn’t just the ease she covered the 32 plus mile course in under the 3 hour time limit, but she was 16 minutes ahead of the next riders, which were all men. Christensen, who first competed in the new sport of Mt Bike

Orienteering last fall (the first of its kind event in the Pacific Northwest), was an immediate success at the event. Mt. Bike Orienteering is new to the USA, but has been very popular in Europe for sometime, where they have held European and World Championships. Mt. Bike Orienteering involves finding 24 check points scattered over a 35 mile area, testing the riders navigation, fitness and biking skills.

Flying Irish fever must be spreading.

A new Flying Irish-style running club has started on the South Hill. Waddell’s Own Pub Running Club runs every Monday at 6PM. The run/walk is 5 miles long, which is great Bloomsday training. There are no age limits; Waddell’s is a family friendly restaurant. Everyone is welcome and the route is clearly marked with signs and ribbons. For additional information about Waddell’s Pub Runners Club please visit LiveToRun.net or contact Tyler Barranger, run organizer, 509710-5114 or email tyler@livetorun.net.

Heading back from a Canadian camp out? Pack the tents and sleeping bags, and the kids too! But don’t pack firewood and kindling; instead buy your firewood and kindling in the U.S. That is the message U.S. Customs and Border Protection wants travelers arriving from Canada to remember. Hitchhiking invaders, such as the Asian Long horned Beetle, European Gypsy Moth, Emerald Ash Borer are harmful pests that can infest firewood and destroy or defoliate U.S. trees and forests if transported across the international border. Travelers must declare all agriculture products including firewood and kindling when arriving in the United States.

Ferry County Rail Trail Partners has held its first annual membership meeting and looking for more folks to get involved. The next board meeting will be Saturday, May 10, at 10:00 am, at the Old Fire hall located at 26 Clark Street.

The public is welcome. The Ferry County Rail Trail Partners encourage anyone in support of a 29 mile, safe, quiet, non-motorized rail trail to get involved. Please educate yourselves and others about the many benefits of non-motorized trails and help make it a reality in Ferry County. Find out more at www.ferrycountyrailtrail.com.

The Fat Tire Trail Riders have begun major work on the Beacon Bike Park. If you aren’t familiar with the bike park concept, it’s like a whitewater park, but for mountain bikers.

The FTTRC has partnered with the City of Spokane Outdoor Recreation Dept. to develop more beginner, intermediate and advanced mountain bike trails at Camp Sekani.

The skills area is just part one of “The Plan.”

The skills area will have challenges like ladders, teeters, technical trails on rock, other fun trail features. They also have the support of KONA bikes for this (a $1000 grant) and the National Park Service (RTCA Grant for Beacon Hill) Like the sound of all this? There is more information on both the bike park and the Beacon Project at www.fttrc.org. //

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OUT THERE NEWS Tribal Uranium miners sought ®

Feds offer up money and apology By Esther holmes

Commuter gear. // Photo A. Sinisterra Deb Abrahamson of SHAWL

The 24th Year July 27th, 2008 Kaniksu Ranch Family Nudist Park

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Along with an apology, former uranium workers or their survivors may receive up to $100,000 from the federal government if their jobs made them ill. Gerard W. Fischer, of the U.S. Department of Justice, was in Wellpinit last month with a slide show about the program.

Washington and Idaho are among 11 states included, and anyone who can prove employment as a uranium miner, miller or transporter for at least one year between 1942 and 1971, and who contracted certain disease, is eligible.

Two uranium mines on the Spokane Indian Reservation—Midnite and Sherwood—produced yellow cake for national defense and nuclear energy beginning in the 1950s and former uranium workers and their survivors are scattered throughout the Inland Northwest.

“This is certainly a step in the right direction,” said Deb Abrahamson of the SHAWL Society, a group that has worked for a decade to address environmental and health impacts of the mines.

“Anyone who gets sick while in the service of national security should receive the benefits they deserve. Given the number of former workers who have already died, it’s critical that these services be expedited.”

SHAWL is gathering signatures on a petition to expand compensation to those who produced uranium after 1971. Mining on the Spokane reservation continued to the 80s and its impacts are far from settled. A Superfund site on Lookout Mountain continues to leak toxins into water where filters collect uranium sludge that is rou-

tinely trucked through the community to the defunct uranium mill site at Ford. Forty hotspots along the route were cleaned up two years ago, but some tribal members question if enough was done.

Attention to safety and health has been spotty at best, according to SHAWL, which has been conducting oral histories to track the spread of radiation through the community.

“Our grandparents, parents, uncles and aunts never knew about the danger. They worked in the mine and brought back yellow cake,” Abrahamson said of workers who regularly introduced radioactive contamination into their homes with dusty clothing and mud-caked shoes.

Former uranium workers or surviving parents, spouses, children or grandchildren may apply for the money. DOJ offers some guidance accessing required records, Fischer said.

Qualifying conditions for miners are primary lung cancer and certain nonmalignant respiratory diseases. In addition, mill workers and uranium ore transporters who contracted those, or renal cancer and other chronic kidney diseases including nephritis and kidney tubal tissue injury, may apply.

Out of 291 claims filed in Washington so far, $12.2 million has been paid to 185 residents, according to Fischer, who said most were former Midnite Mine workers who now live in Western Washington.

Payments typically come from one to six months after applications are accepted, he said.

Congress calls it a ‘compassion payment’ to recognize the miners and their families “for the burdens they have borne for the nation as a whole.”

In addition, Congress apologized to uranium workers and their families for the hardships they have endured.

Fischer is expected back in Wellpinit in August, along with someone from the health department who will provide information on health screening. // For info on the DOJ program or SHAWLs petition, contact Deb Abrahamson at shawlsociety@yahoo. com. Applications for the RECA program are available in Wellpinit, the N.A.T.I.V.E. Project in Spokane, Benewah Medical Center in Plummer, and at http:// www.usdoj.gov/civil/torts/const/reca/.

NEW downtown tree program launches The City of Spokane, along with the Spokane County Conservation District and the Downtown Spokane Partnership, is launching a grant program to plant new street trees in downtown Spokane.

The program is intended to replace or add up to 50 street trees a year in an area bounded by Spokane Falls Boulevard to the north, Second Avenue to the south, just past Monroe Street to the west, and just past Washington Street to the east.

There are about 500 locations in the downtown core that are suitable for street trees, but many of these sites are empty or have trees that are in poor health.The grant program is a way to get new trees into these locations.

Property owners can apply for the $500 grants

for tree sites adjacent to their properties.The property owner must agree to remove any existing tree and installing a privately connected irrigation system for the site.They also commit to watering and caring for the tree for 25 years.

The City will backfill the tree pit with appropriate planting mix, and the Spokane County Conservation District will plant a new tree in each location. Approved tree species for the program include Green Ash, White Ash, Blue Ash, Little Leaf Linden, and American Linden. //

For more info and applications visit: http://www.downtownspokane.com

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OUT THERE NEWS Columbia highlands free hikes See amazing backcountry starting in june

heart-centered yoga Open House Sat. May 31 Classes all day June 27 - 29 "Radiant Child Yoga" Teacher Training Check the website for more events and Summer class schedule Find the cool spots this summer. // Photo Rich landers/courtesy conservation northwest.

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Conservation Northwest and other local conservation groups have been leading day hikes to the remaining public wild lands of the Columbia Highlands in northeast Washington for several decades to inspire people to protect these special places. This year’s hikes range from family friendly walks to more challenging, all-day adventures. Each hike highlights the unique conservation history of areas under consideration for Recommended Wilderness by the Colville and Okanogan National Forests.

Situated between Washington’s North Cascades and Idaho’s Rocky Mountains, the Columbia Highlands contain some of the wildest forests in our state: magnificent and replete with wildlife, yet little known, under-appreciated, and unprotected.

Hike options this summer include June 7 Thirteen Mile Creek (8 miles, moderate); June 14 - Columbia Mountain Lookout (8 miles, moderate); June 22 - Jungle Hill to Columbia Mountain (14 miles, very challenging); July 12 – Hoodoo Canyon & Emerald Lake (6 miles, moderate); July

Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

For details or to sign up for a hike, contact crystal@conservationnw.org or (509) 570-2166 or visit www.conservationnw.org/columbiahighlands

inland nW trails wants to meet you Advocacy group to host community event june 19 On Thursday June 19, 6-7:30PM The Inland Northwest Trails Coalition will host Spring Into Action—Get Out With a Group at the Mountain Gear office building on 6021 E. Mansfield North of Trent off Fancher (Felts Field Area).

It’s a great opportunity to connect with a wide range of Spokane outdoor groups and clubs, Inclduding: Baddlands Cycling Club, Bicycle Alliance of Washington, Conservation Northwest, Emdesports, Fat Tire Trail Riders, Hobnailers Hiking Club, Inland Empire Backcountry Horsemen, Northwest Whitewater Association, Panhandle Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club, Selkirk Nordic Ski Education Foundation, Spokane Bicycle Club, Spokane Mountaineers, Spokane Parks and Recreation Department, Spokane Rocket Velo, Washington Trails Association, and WOW (Women on Wheels) Cycling Club.

10

19 – Clackamas Mountain (8 miles, challenging); July 26 – Abercrombie Mountain to Hooknose (9 miles, very challenging); Aug. 2 – Grassy Top from Pass Creek Pass (8 miles, moderate); Aug. 9 – Sherman Peak Loop (6 miles, moderate); Aug. 16 – Hall Mountain (14 miles, very challenging); Aug. 23 – Wapaloosie Mountain (6 miles, challenging).

If you can only make it to one of these hikes this summer, the Kettle Range Rendezvous weekend on June 28 & 29 has been the most popular. The hiking weekend includes car camping options in a beautiful forest setting and a potluck barbecue and music around the campfire. Hike options include Wapaloosie to Jungle Hill, Hoodoo Canyon & Emerald Lake, and the Sherman Peak Loop on Saturday. //

Do you have an outdoor item that you cannot use and know that someone else might be able to use it? (White Elephant). Inland Northwest Trails wants you to bring it to the meeting. They will put on a display of items and everyone will have the opportunity to enter a drawing for something they want. And maybe take home something they can use.

Maps and guidebooks will be available for purchase. Refreshments will be provided. //

For more information about Inland Northwest Trails Coalition please go to: http://www.inlandnorthwesttrails.org

http://cyclingspokane.blogspot.com

Everyday cyclist The Ultimate utility bike

Pedallin g

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What makes a bike great for everyday cycling // By John Speare

is than ga s

clear your mind

cleanse your body

The 1947 Alex Singer: Perfect utility. // Photo: Jean-Pierre Pradères, ©2007 Bicycle Quarterly

Last month I wrote a column about the different types of bikes you will typically run into as you shop for your first adult bike. In that column, I compared different frame types and their potential to serve as a utilitarian bike.

I use the term “utilitarian bike” because I don’t know of an industry term which describes the kind of bike I think is useful for daily life. To me a utilitarian bike should handle a reasonable load well; it should be comfortable on long trips and on trails; it should have integrated lights that just work. It should keep the road grime off of your shoes, pants, and back. It should inspire fast and efficient travel over varied terrain.

Take a long look at the bike in the photo. It’s a 1947 Alex Singer. To the contemporary eye, the bike looks vintage or quaint. To those used to the aggressive aesthetics that define most bikes today, the Singer does not look “serious.” But to the task of fulfilling its role as a comfortable daily rider, the Singer leaves very little to improve upon.

Firstly, the bike was designed from the ground up as a utilitarian bike. It has a generator on the rear wheel to power the front and rear lights. The wiring for the lights has been run through the frame to eliminate snagging and to maintain a tidy look. The fenders, spaced perfectly around the tires, are full-coverage, with a mud-flap on the front fender to catch the road grime. Racks are custom-built for this frame. There are no zip ties or unsightly rack stays attached with p-clamps.

This bike does not make rattles or funny rubbing noises when coasting down the street.

As for performance, this bike, under a fit and skillful rider, is “fast” enough for utility riding.

The steel tubing is butted to reduce weight. As shown, the bike weighs in at about 24 pounds.

While not race-light by today’s standards, the low weight is an achievement considering the usefulness and versatility of the bike. The standard diameter steel tubing also provides flex for lively climbs and responsive handling. Because it’s made of steel, if cared for and maintained, the bike will last you a lifetime.

The 700x32 tires are wider and thus more comfortable than most tires that are shipped on road bikes today, but with supple casing and softer rubber, the tires on the Singer often exhibit lower rolling resistance in real-world testing. Don’t buy it?

For surprising results on real-world rolling resistance bicycle tire testing, see Bicycle Quarterly Volume 5, Number 1 (www.bikequarterly.com).

Comfort is an important issue for a utilitarian bike. The saddle on this Singer is about level with the handle bars. Look at how low the saddle sits in relation to the frame; there’s very little seat

post showing. Now look at any other contemporary bike photo, and you’ll see that there is a lot of seat post showing. A comfortable bike (for most) will have the bars and saddle at the same height or with the bars a bit higher. Therefore, in most cases, a larger frame is more preferable than a smaller frame.

The most interesting part of the design on this bike is the front-end. Notice how slender the forks are and how much they rake out in front of the bike. Ride this bike over washboard on a gravel road and you’ll see the movement at the end of the forks. In fact, you’ll see a lot of movement: that’s the forks taking in the road for you. It’s an elegant and practical design.

Finally, the geometric relationship between the forks and the head tube angle is in large part responsible for how a bike “feels” or handles. That relationship is a measurable unit called “trail.” A bike may have high trail, medium trail, or low trail.

These are generic and somewhat arbitrary categories that correspond to the trail measurement, but the basic point is that nearly all (non-race) bikes sold today are high trail bikes. High trail bikes are very easy to control and easy to hold a line at speed. When you hop on a high-trail bike and glide down a long descent, you feel very stable as you gently glide into long turns. However, avoiding obstacles at speed can be difficult, and slow technical turning requires a bit of man-handling on a high trail bike.

Low trail bikes, on the other hand, are a bit livelier in their handling. Some people call low trail bike handling “twitchy.” On twisty descents and high-speed technical riding (think traffic with potholes, at speed), low-trail bikes respond very quickly and precisely to turning inputs. Perhaps most importantly, low-trail bikes excel with a front load. Evangelizing the greatness of front loads and city biking is a future column, so for now, you must take my word for it that front loads and getting around town with moderate loads is the way to ride. But don’t load up your high-trail bike in the front. The handling is awful; your front wheel will flop all over the place.

I love this old Singer and it’s a shame we don’t see bikes like this in mass production today. I am holding out hope that we’ll see modern versions of this bike shipping from a big manufacturer in the next few years. There are a few big manufacturers getting closer, but none that I know of have really got the critical front-end details right. // John Speare grew up and lives in Spokane. He rides his bike everywhere. Check out his blog at http://cyclingspokane.blogspot.com.

Time B omb 711 N. M o

nroe, Spo kane -6949

(509) 326

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• ashtanga vinyasa yoga • all levels welcome • beginners session starts bi-monthly • restorative yoga offered • teacher training course available • convenient morning and evening classes • 7-days a week • on-site child care coming soon

city yoga 505 east 24th street spokane, 509.869.4121 www.cityyogaspokane.com

Summer To Do List ... 

Camp



Climb



Paddle

 Recycle!

• Have a plastic bag at your campsite to collect all recyclables.

• When hiking or boating, use a backpack to carry your empty cans & bottles.

• Take recyclables home if there are no recycling bins where you are.

Recycling Hotline 625-6800

www.solidwaste.org JUNE 2008

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road trips The new book on paddling adventure An Interview with Paddling Washington Co-Author Rich Landers // By Derrick Knowles

Spokane is blessed by lakes and rivers. What’s your pick for our city’s finest day-trip paddling destination?

The Little Spokane River is hard to beat for a flatwater wildlife watching experience, but the Spokane River has it all. I added a special section on the book detailing the variety of flatwater and whitewater paddling segments on all 112 miles of the Spokane River.

Time to start paddling washington. //

Melting snow packs, flooding rivers, and even the future of our city’s summer time falls have many local paddlers thinking about water and itching to dust off our boats once again.

For those of you who’ve learned to never head off for a float without Rich Lander’s classic Paddle Routes of the Inland Northwest book, his newest contribution to the Northwest outdoor guidebook scene, Paddling Washington: Flatwater and Whitewater Routes in Washington State and the Inland Northwest, which he co-authored, will get you started down the right path, or waterway in this case, towards a lifetime’s worth of whitewater and rapid-free paddling close to home. OTM tracked down Landers for some tips for boaters to get you inspired to explore some of the incredibly diverse paddling opportunities described in his new guide.

This season is shaping up to be a fantastic whitewater year. How do paddling opportunities in Paddling Washington stack up with other water rich parts of the West?

Considering this book covers waters into British Columbia, northern Idaho, western Montana and the Grande Ronde in Oregon, I can’t think of any region that offers as much diversity as the waters we’ve covered. Whitewater is just a portion of this book; we’ve focused on giving paddlers of all abilities a guide to year-round waters that range from desert (Winchester Wasteway) to flatwater and whitewater trips in the North Cascades. If you’re planning to do all of these trips, quit your day job.

You’ve hiked all of the trails in your 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest book. How many of the water trails in this new collaborative guide have you explored first-hand?

About 35. More if you include the ones I’ve fished.

You’ve floated rivers and lakes from Alaska to the Southwest in rafts, kayaks, drift boats and canoes. What’s your water craft of choice for ply-

A memorable paddling experience isn’t just about making your way across a water course— the wildness and beauty or lack thereof, not to mention the potential for getting shot at by irritable landowners, can make or break a great float. Which routes in the Inland Northwest would you recommend for their wild and scenic surrounds?

Regarding existing dams, relicensing is your one shot every 50 years to be heard.

Don’t miss it.

It’s all about timing and companions. Almost all of the trips we cover have a way of getting you away from it all, but some are more attractive at specific times of year. The Winchester Wasteway near Moses Lake is sensational in March when the cacophony of migrating waterfowl and the nightime desert sky can leave you speechless. Slocan Lake is one of the most wild and scenic places even though paddlers share the lake with power boats.

The Kettle River has the most irritable landowners.

Some of the paddle routes mention angling opportunities. Can you point to a few gems for boaters looking to drag along a rod and reel?

The Coeur d’Alene River for cutthroat trout.

Hutchinson-Shiner Lakes in the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge are excellent for bluegills. Lake Roosevelt has everything from walleye

and smallmouth bass to rainbow trout. The trip I wrote up on the Grande Ronde River includes some excellent steelhead fishing stretches. But this is just the tip of the iceberg.

In addition to the impacts of existing dams on many of our rivers, a few of the Inland Northwest floating and fishing spots like Crab Creek, Hawk Creek, Rock Lake and others, are

On June 3 at 7PM Rich Landers and Dan Hansen discuss their new book, Paddling Washington at REI Spokane, 1125 N Monroe St., Spokane. Slidetalk followed by Q&A and book signing. Admission is free.

Save gas and still get away this summer!

The Cozy Creekside Cabin

ing Washington’s waters?

A canoe remains the all-round boat for everything from modest whitewater to flatwater, from day trips to expeditions. David Thompson proved that. But paddlers have special interests. Sea kayaks are superior in their domain, and it’s hard to beat a cataraft for versatility and maneuverability on fast rivers, including multi-day trips on remote Alaska rivers.

under consideration for new dam and water storage projects. What can boaters, bird watchers, hikers, and anglers do to defend these recreational treasures?

Regarding existing dams, relicensing is your one shot every 50 years to be heard. Don’t miss it. We all should join a group, such as the Spokane Canoe and Kayak Club or fishing or conservation groups such as the Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited Chapter, to help build choruses of voices and watchdogs to address new threats to rivers and lakes. Joining one of these groups will help individuals be better informed and more effective. //

Just 17 miles from the N. Division "Y" in the foothills of Mt. Spokane. Bike, hike, bring your horses, or relax and enjoy a cool breeze from the rippling creek. Only $85 per night. www.cabins.com (509) 238-2195.

Best selection of kayaks and gear in the Inland NW

• Every day is a demo day • Sales and rentals

JUNE 2008

/

Out There Monthly

13

road trips The new book on paddling adventure An Interview with Paddling Washington Co-Author Rich Landers // By Derrick Knowles

Spokane is blessed by lakes and rivers. What’s your pick for our city’s finest day-trip paddling destination?

The Little Spokane River is hard to beat for a flatwater wildlife watching experience, but the Spokane River has it all. I added a special section on the book detailing the variety of flatwater and whitewater paddling segments on all 112 miles of the Spokane River.

Time to start paddling washington. //

Melting snow packs, flooding rivers, and even the future of our city’s summer time falls have many local paddlers thinking about water and itching to dust off our boats once again.

For those of you who’ve learned to never head off for a float without Rich Lander’s classic Paddle Routes of the Inland Northwest book, his newest contribution to the Northwest outdoor guidebook scene, Paddling Washington: Flatwater and Whitewater Routes in Washington State and the Inland Northwest, which he co-authored, will get you started down the right path, or waterway in this case, towards a lifetime’s worth of whitewater and rapid-free paddling close to home. OTM tracked down Landers for some tips for boaters to get you inspired to explore some of the incredibly diverse paddling opportunities described in his new guide.

This season is shaping up to be a fantastic whitewater year. How do paddling opportunities in Paddling Washington stack up with other water rich parts of the West?

Considering this book covers waters into British Columbia, northern Idaho, western Montana and the Grande Ronde in Oregon, I can’t think of any region that offers as much diversity as the waters we’ve covered. Whitewater is just a portion of this book; we’ve focused on giving paddlers of all abilities a guide to year-round waters that range from desert (Winchester Wasteway) to flatwater and whitewater trips in the North Cascades. If you’re planning to do all of these trips, quit your day job.

You’ve hiked all of the trails in your 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest book. How many of the water trails in this new collaborative guide have you explored first-hand?

About 35. More if you include the ones I’ve fished.

You’ve floated rivers and lakes from Alaska to the Southwest in rafts, kayaks, drift boats and canoes. What’s your water craft of choice for ply-

A memorable paddling experience isn’t just about making your way across a water course— the wildness and beauty or lack thereof, not to mention the potential for getting shot at by irritable landowners, can make or break a great float. Which routes in the Inland Northwest would you recommend for their wild and scenic surrounds?

Regarding existing dams, relicensing is your one shot every 50 years to be heard.

Don’t miss it.

It’s all about timing and companions. Almost all of the trips we cover have a way of getting you away from it all, but some are more attractive at specific times of year. The Winchester Wasteway near Moses Lake is sensational in March when the cacophony of migrating waterfowl and the nightime desert sky can leave you speechless. Slocan Lake is one of the most wild and scenic places even though paddlers share the lake with power boats.

The Kettle River has the most irritable landowners.

Some of the paddle routes mention angling opportunities. Can you point to a few gems for boaters looking to drag along a rod and reel?

The Coeur d’Alene River for cutthroat trout.

Hutchinson-Shiner Lakes in the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge are excellent for bluegills. Lake Roosevelt has everything from walleye

and smallmouth bass to rainbow trout. The trip I wrote up on the Grande Ronde River includes some excellent steelhead fishing stretches. But this is just the tip of the iceberg.

In addition to the impacts of existing dams on many of our rivers, a few of the Inland Northwest floating and fishing spots like Crab Creek, Hawk Creek, Rock Lake and others, are

On June 3 at 7PM Rich Landers and Dan Hansen discuss their new book, Paddling Washington at REI Spokane, 1125 N Monroe St., Spokane. Slidetalk followed by Q&A and book signing. Admission is free.

Save gas and still get away this summer!

The Cozy Creekside Cabin

ing Washington’s waters?

A canoe remains the all-round boat for everything from modest whitewater to flatwater, from day trips to expeditions. David Thompson proved that. But paddlers have special interests. Sea kayaks are superior in their domain, and it’s hard to beat a cataraft for versatility and maneuverability on fast rivers, including multi-day trips on remote Alaska rivers.

under consideration for new dam and water storage projects. What can boaters, bird watchers, hikers, and anglers do to defend these recreational treasures?

Regarding existing dams, relicensing is your one shot every 50 years to be heard. Don’t miss it. We all should join a group, such as the Spokane Canoe and Kayak Club or fishing or conservation groups such as the Spokane Falls Trout Unlimited Chapter, to help build choruses of voices and watchdogs to address new threats to rivers and lakes. Joining one of these groups will help individuals be better informed and more effective. //

Just 17 miles from the N. Division "Y" in the foothills of Mt. Kit Carson. Bike, hike, bring your horses, or relax and enjoy a cool breeze from the rippling creek. Only $85 per night. www.cabins.com (509) 238-2195.

Best selection of kayaks and gear in the Inland NW

• Every day is a demo day • Sales and rentals

JUNE 2008

/

Out There Monthly

13

RACE

VACATIONS Where To Go For Great Triathlons And Marathons In The Northwest

by ANGIE DieRdorff & Jon Snyder

Photos: Men in water, woman on bike & man running are from the Whidbey Island Triathlon. Photos courtesy South Whidbey Record. // Woman running: Hippie Chick Half Marathon. Photo Paula Harkin. // Swimmers at Alcatraz Escape the Rock. Photo EnviroSports. // Missoula Marathon start. Photo Dariusz Janczewski, 2007 Missoula Marathon Š. // Cyclist in the mountains at Pacific Crest Triathlon. Photo Bob Woodward. // Racers in the snow at U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle. Photo D. Boswell Photography. // Two marathon finishers. Photo courtesy Seafair.

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Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

D

Triathlons, Multi-Sport Events (listed Chronological order) •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 1. Boise Ironman 70.3: Boise, Idaho (1.2 mi. swim, 56 mi. bike, 13.1 mi. run) www.ironmanboise.com Date: 6/1/08 (5/30/09) Accommodations: It’s Boise, Idaho – not Salmon. Hotels and motels are abundant, but make sure to reserve your room well in advance – this event is expected to pack ‘em in. Start with www.boisechamber.org and go from there.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Although 2008 will be the first, Boise Ironman 70.3 is organized by the pro’s at Ironman, so you know it will be well-organized. Plus, it’s Ironman “lite” and is a good stepping stone for the triathlete who isn’t quite ready for the full course. Boise is pretty fun to hang out in these days – the bike-to-run transition will be located on Capitol Boulevard and the half-marathon run course will take you through downtown and the Boise Greenbelt, with the finish line in the trendy “BoDo” District. This is a qualifier for the Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Clearwater, Florida. Online registration for 2009 opens October 1, 2008.

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2. X Terra Solstice Triathlon: La Grande, Oregon (1K swim, 11K run, 25K bike, kids duathlon) www.solsticetraithlon.com Date: 6/21/08 Accommodations: If you are up for camping after a day of trail dust, stay at Morgan Lake and enjoy the scenery and maybe the elk. Need a shower and not another plunge in the cold lake? Within a few miles of the event you will find everything from funky (cheap) old motels on Main Street, B & B’s in residential neighbor-

ESTINATION races are becoming more and more popular and the Pacific Northest has a bunch of fun ones. Two of the best are right here: Bloomsday and Ironman Coeur d’Alene. But where should you go when you want to race out of town? Use our guide to help pick a triathlon or marathon that will not only be a great race but a great vacation spot, too. hoods, to a HoJo with a heated pool closer to the freeway. Check out www.visitlagrande.com or call 1-800-848-9969 for lodging ideas.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Because this homegrown event has a such a great rep that it was courted by the folks at X Terra to join the series.

Anything with bike runs called “Suicide Hill” and a running course like “The Rock Garden” is not to be missed by the hardcore trail nut. Race director and founder, Mary Ellen LaBerge says the biking leg is known as one of the best mountain biking trails in the region.

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3. Pacific Crest weekend: Sunriver, Oregon (Half Iron Triathlon, Endurance Duathlon, Marathon, Half Marathon, Olympic Distance Triathlon & Duathlon, Kid’s Splash Pedal-nDash, 10K & 5K Run/Walks, and Kid’s 1-mile & 1/2-mile Dash) www.racecenter.com/pacificcrest Date: 6/27-29/08 Accommodations: Official lodgings are provided at www.Sunrivervacations.com, so start there. Sharing a Sunriver condo with friends or family can be the most affordable way to stay. If you haven’t been to Sunriver before, it is worth it - activities including horseback riding, fishing, white water rafting, two golf courses, 26 tennis courts, 30+ miles of bike paths, swimming and wildlife. Or check around for other options at visitcentraloregon.com.

Why swim/bike/run this race: This area near Bend receives well-deserved accolades as a mecca for outdoor sports and has a thriving community that takes advantage of the recreation this region offers. According to race director, Carol Atherton, “this event has an edgy competitive atmosphere, but is really family friendly – its a great first or 10th tri.” There’s an event for everybody this

Boat launch at the Pole, Pedal, Paddle // Photo D. Boswell Photography.

weekend – from the 5K on up to the ½ Iron with its challenging bike course through the Deschutes National Forest. Adds Atherton, “people come from all over the country for this scenic course, then stay a few days with their families to enjoy Sunriver.” This is a TRI NW ranked event. This event is expected to SELL OUT, so it is advised you register as soon as possible. There is only enough room for 1,000 total bikes in the triathlon & duathlon.

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4. Ocean Shores Big Weekend: Ocean Shores, Washington (½ Ironman, Olympic distance, sprint, kids’ tri, half marathon, 10K, 5K) www.trifreak.com Date: 7/12-13/08 Accommodations: Ocean Shores is a popular seaside destination, but not so exclusive that you can’t get a moderately-priced room. From a camp site at a state park to the Quality Inn to a highend rental, you can find a place to stay – just plan ahead a little. Check out www.oceanshores.com for lodgings and www.gonorthwest.com for camping and RV parks.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Beaches, sand, cool ocean breezes. Clamming. This race weekend has only been around for a few years, but it is in a great location for a family vacation or a romantic getaway after the race. Because Ocean Shores is a small community, race organizers tell us that the whole town gets behind the weekend’s events.

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5. Whisky Dick Triathlon: Vantage, Washington ( 1 mi. swim, 26.4 mi. bike, 8.8 mi. run) www.whiskydick.com Date: 7/20/08 Accommodations: Most participants stay in Ellensburg, where the finish line is. Buses take athletes and gear to start and transitions points.

There is camping near Vantage and Ellensburg, and lots of cute inns and B &B’s. Start with www. visitellensburg.com, or link to the chamber from the event site.

Why swim/bike/run this race: So you can brag to your friends that you climbed almost 2000 feet of elevation in 8 miles and summitted Whisky Dick peak on a bike. The event motto is “Challenge the Whisky Dick. It’s tough, but not impossible!” The good news is that after making it up Whisky Dick, you get to roll into Kittitas and run a flat course to Ellensburg. Event organizer, Tami Walton says this course is known as great training for the bigger triathlons.

for lodging – try www.visitwhidbey.com or visit the Langley Chamber of Commerce.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Whidbey is one of the San Juan Islands, known for the scenery and the friendly, funky little towns. Considered a popular triathlon with beginners, this course is very natural. It starts in a clear and clean Goss Lake, with biking on back roads and a view of the Saratoga Passge, and finishes with an easy run through paved trails in a forested community park. Sounds like a vacation to me.

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7. Apple Capital Triathlon: Wenatchee, Washington (Olympic Distance 1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run; Sprint Distance 450 yd. Swim, 20K bike, 5K run) www.triwenatchee.net Date: 8/24/08 Accommodations: With the race based in Daroga State Park 15 miles outside of Wenatchee, there is camping available on a first-come, firstserved basis. Also, the Red Lion Hotel is the official hotel of the event. E-mail race director, Jason Jablonski at setcoaching@msn.com if you want some other suggestions.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Although the swim is in the Columbia River, it is in an inlet that doesn’t have much current, so the swim is notoriously fast. Jablonski says that this is a great destination event not only because of the beautiful setting in Daroga State Park, but also because he gives out the best SWAG. And lots of it! This is a TRINW ranked event.

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8. Escape from the Rock: San Francisco, California (1.5 mi. swim, 1 mi. run, 13 mi. bike, 10K run) www.envirosports.com Date: 8/24/08 Accommodations: If you don’t have friends to stay with, expect to travel a bit to the start, or splurge and make a vacation out of it by staying near the heart of it all. It’s San Francisco – hotels are easy to find on-line, and there are deals to be had if you look around.

Why swim/bike/run this race: You get to jump off Alcatraz Island into the bay!! Why else? Oh, yeah...you could decide to take part in a wellestablished event that has been around for almost 30 years, or maybe you have a thing for prison movies, sourdough, Ghiradelli. Whatever your reasons – this is definitely a destination event.

NOT to be confused with the newer triathlon, Escape from Alcatraz – Escape from the Rock came first.

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6. Whidbey Island Triathlon: Langley, Washington (½ mi. swim, 19.5 mi. bike, 3.8 mi. run) www,swparks.org Date: 8/20/08 Accomodations: This is a popular tourist destination, so make reservations as early as possible

9. Escape from the Gorge: Cascade Locks, Oregon (1.5 mi. swim, 18 mi. bike, 8 mi. run) www.trifreak.com Date: 9/7/08 Accommodations: The Bonneville Springs Resort is across the Bridge of the Gods, and there is a Best Western in Cascade Locks, but it fills JUNE 2008

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Costumed racers and the pond skimming event at the Pole, Pedal, Paddle // Photo D. Boswell Photography. . A cyclist on the brutal 2000 feet climb to the summit of Whiskey Dick for the second leg of the Whiskey Dick Triathlon

up fast. Hood River is close by and has more to offer for accommodations. Special occasion? First triathlon? Stay at the Columbia Gorge Hotel. Or at least hit it for the famous breakfast on your way home.

Why swim/bike/run this race: Race organizer Bo Lebastchi calls this race “epic.” It starts by jumping off the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler into river, a “hillier than hell” bike, and the rolling hill run is a gorgeous stretch of the old Pacific Crest Trail. It is designed to emulate the Escape from Alcratraz tri in San Francisco (not to be confused with Escape from the Rock). Escape from the Gorge is a qualifier for Escape from Alcatraz.

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10. U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle: Bend, Oregon (ski, bike, paddle, run) www.mbsef.org Date: 5/19/09 Accommodations: Mt. Bachelor Village Resort is the lodging sponsor for the event and can be found at www.mtbachelorvillage.com. If you want to rough it and don’t mind a drive to the start, this popular outdoor recreation area is positively teeming with camping, motels, hotels and resorts.

Why ski/paddle/run this race: With six legs that include alpine skiing, snowboarding, crosscountry skiing, biking, running, kayaking and a final sprint to the finish, Pole Pedal Paddle is one of the more unique spring multi-sport events in the region. Teams, pairs and individuals have taken advantage of the long ski season at Mt. Bachelor for 33 years now, with some in it for the fun and many in it to win it. Registration will be available for 2009 by February 1.

MARATHON aND HALF MARATHON VACATION RACES •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• These races were picked because of their vacation potential—scenery, sights, entertainment, culture—not necessarily because they are the best races for a personal record (PR). According to www.MarathonGuide.com the Northwest marathon with the highest amount of Boston Marathon qualifying finishers are the Yakima River Canyon Marathon, the Tacoma City Marathon, the Capital City Marathon, and the 16

Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

Vancouver BC International Marathon—in that order. That doesn’t mean you can’t PR on the races below it just means that the above races attract some of the fastest runners and produce some of the fastest times in our region.

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1. VM Team Medicine Seafair Marathon (+ Relay, Half Marathon, Kid’s Mini-Marathon) Date: June, 29, 2008 www.seafairmarathon.com Accommodations: Take your pick of anything in Seattle. Crash with friends and family if you can. Race headquarters is at the Bellevue Hilton.

Why do this race: Course has been redesigned point-to-point and now passes Husky Stadium, goes over the 520 floating bridge, and includes 12 miles of waterfront. They’ve worked hard to improve the race including moving it to a new time of year. Making a vacation of it? Take your pick of food, entertainment, and art from one of America’s great cities.

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2. Missoula Marathon (+ Relay, Half Marathon, Kid’s Marathon) Date: July, 13, 2008 www.missoulamarathon.org Accommodations: This is a heavy month for tourism so book early. The Missoula Conventions and Visitors Bureau website (www.missoulacvb. org) is a great place to start.

Why run this race: It starts in the country and ends in town, going west, with the wind at your back. It’s all pavement with one hill so personal records are possible. The locals are friendly and enthusiastic about the race. If three great rivers with spectacular fly-fishing don’t do it for you remember that in addition to the famous Montana outdoor pursuits Missoula also has some great food, a cool art museum, and is home to the Adventure Cycling Association headquarters.

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3. Crater Lake Rim Runs & Marathon www.craterlakerimruns.com Date: 8/9/08 Accommodations: Organizers claim it’s not hard to find lodging. Nearby Klamath Falls has a couple of hotels, including Best Western. At Crater Lake there are a couple of motels and the Crater Lake Lodge, but the lodge is gener-

ally booked a year in advance. Also nearby is Diamond Lake, home to the Diamond Lake Resort and Diamond Lake Campground.

Why run this race: “It’s the most beautiful place in the world,” says organizer Beverly Freirich.

Racers come from around the globe to run the rim of Crater Lake. It has significant hills that make it a lot more challenging then a flat marathon.

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4. Timberline Trail Marathon: Mt. Hood OR (+ Half Marathon) Date: September, 9, 2008 www.roguemultisport.com Accommodations: It’s between seasons so lodging in the Hood River area shouldn’t be too bad, but if you want the Timberline Lodge or the Mt. Hood Inn book way in advance.

Why run this race: Before you blanche at the 6,000 foot altitude starting point realize that the race has a net elevation loss of 3,000 feet.

Racers run by forests, mountains, alpine meadows, beautiful Timothy Lake, and part of the Pacific Crest Trail. One of the few trail marathons in the Pacific Northwest. The nearby Columbia River Gorge offers tons of recreation opportunities. Don’t forget to visit the Full Sail brewery in Hood River.

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5. Leavenworth Oktoberfest Marathon (+ Relay, Half Marathon) Date: October, 4, 2008 www.leavenworthmarathon.com Accommodations: Not surprisingly, it’s hard to find accommodations in Leavenworth during Oktoberfest. Try Wenatchee, just 20 minutes away, and usually wide open on race weekend.

Why run this race: “Because of Oktoberfest. It’s like Mardi Gras. That’s why 90% of people come,” says race organizer Ted Finegold. If you want to make sure the race you attend has a robust after party look no further. Bands come here from all over the world and beers are served. Don’t expect a personal record though. The course is very beautiful, but a bit hilly.

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6. Hippie Chick Half Marathon: Portland, OR (+ ¼ Marathon, Kids Run) Date: May 2009 www.runwithpaula.com

Accommodations: Like Seattle, Portland has

tons of great places to stay. Looking for something fun? Try the swanky modern digs at the Ace Hotel in the heart of hipster downtown (www. acehotel.com).

Why run this race: According to organizer Paula Harkin, “Hippie Chick is a special event with a special spirit.” The race is limited to 900 women and closed in 5 days in 2008.

(Registration for 2009 begins 11/1/08). The event is geared towards family and sometimes they have three and four generation of women walking or running together celebrating mother, daughters, sisters and friends. Racers are pampered with Jamba Juice and Cinnabon at the finish. Harkin also directs the larger Helvetia Half Marathon in PDX. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

7. Eugene Marathon (+ Half Marathon, 5K, Kid’s Marathon) Date: May 2009 www.eugenemarathon.com Accommodations: Lots of places in Eugene and Springfield. Check the marathon website or go to www.visitlanecounty.org.

Why run this race: Because Eugene is “Track Town U.S.A” and the birth place of Nike shoes.

Only two years old, this marathon already has 1700 marathon finishers and 6000 participants.

The weather is great for running in April. The area also has lots of wineries and is only an hour from the mountains and an hour from the coast if you want to extend your excursion.

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8. San Juan Island Marathon (+ Half Marathon) Date: First weekend in June 2009 www.sjmarathon.org Accommodations: Everything from Five-star hotels, to B&Bs, to Hostels, to camping are available on the island. This is the summer kickoff weekend to accommodations shouldn’t be as hard to get as they would in the middle of summer.

Why run this race: Beautiful scenic course that includes water views, mountain views, and farmland. You can see to Vancouver Island. Expect terrain with some rolling hills and some good climbs. Make a vacation of it by enjoying kayaking, hiking, art, and everything the San Juans have to offer. //

HEALTHAndFITNESS Back and neck pain in cycling What you can do to stop it // By SUSAN Barrett, DC

Fig. 1 Back extension stretches

"Among the many benefits I have gained from working with the Metabolic Institute is the ability to recover more quickly and thoroughly. With a better understanding of proper sports nutrition, I now feel able to train and race more consistently at a high level."

Haley Cooper, Pro-Triathlete Spokane, WA r

Fig. 2. Hamstring stretches

Fig. 3. Lateral neck stretches Cycling provides a great aerobic alternative to running, and certainly much lower impact (as long as you stay upright on your bike). What I see most commonly in my office are injuries that relate to the repetitive aspect of cycling, i.e., continuous leg motion coupled with prolonged positioning of the back and neck. These “overuse injuries” can affect beginners as well as experts, and there are a couple of keys to prevention and treatment. Let’s look at the neck and back.

The most common cause of low back pain in the cyclist is, thankfully, also the most preventable. The lower back muscles are your primary source of power generation and stability on your bike. Their role is essential in the efficiency of the cycling movement, which begins around your body’s core and moves outward. These “core” muscles are collectively responsible for the stability of your low back and are essential for the transfer of force to the rest of the body. The longer you ride, the more fatigued these muscles become.

Weakness here can lead to a miserable ride.

Positioning on the bike is crucial when dealing with low back pain. If your handlebars are too low or if the “reach” (top tube length plus stem) is too short, the lumbar spine is forced into a more flexed position. This leads to increased stress on the low back muscles and discs, which serve as cushions between the vertebrae. This stress is even more exaggerated if you use aero bars. The more stressed the muscles, the more easily they’ll fatigue. Fatigued muscles mean pain.

Neck pain is also a very common occurrence in cyclists. This commonly results from holding the neck in an extended position for a prolonged period of time. This leads to tightening and fatigue of the neck and upper back muscles and can lead to painful “trigger points.” These serve as focal spots of tenderness within muscles that, when touched, cause local or referred pain. Handlebar height also plays a role here. If your handlebars are too low, you must extend your neck in order to see ahead of you. This places strain where your neck meets your upper back and places unusual strain on the adjacent muscles.

To prevent these problems, let me suggest a few simple tips. First, bike fit is extremely important.

You may be incredibly strong and aerobically fit, but if you’re battling pain throughout your ride, your performance will suffer. I’d strongly suggest getting professionally fit on your bike. Be sure to

have your handlebar height and reach, as well as your seat height, checked if you are experiencing low back pain while riding. Second, focus on achieving and maintaining core strength and flexibility.

For flexibility, let me suggest a few simple stretches. To improve your lumbar extension, stand with your hands on your hips and bend backward as far as is comfortable, or do the yoga asana cobra (Fig. 1). Do several repetitions. Also, focus on hamstring length (Fig. 2); avoid rounding your back when you do this stretch. Finally, be sure to stretch your neck regularly before and after riding as well as during breaks during the ride. Stretches that bend the neck forward and to the side are often the most helpful (Fig. 3).

Some symptoms may indicate a more serious problem than just a sore neck or back and require medical attention. If you’re experiencing pain into the back of your legs or arms, or if you feel numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or legs, I strongly suggest seeking the help of a medical professional. Good resources are chiropractors, sports medicine physicians, and physical therapists.

This is not meant to be a comprehensive guide to bike fitting or conditioning. However, by making a few small adjustments to the fit of your bicycle, and by addressing core strength and stretching, you can avoid unnecessary strain on your low back and neck. A happy back and neck will make for a much more enjoyable ride! //

Susan Barrett is a chiropractor practicing for the last eight years at Pearson and Weary Pain Relief Clinic in the Spokane Valley. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human biology and received her chiropractic education at Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon.

She grew up in Spokane and is constantly amazed at what this area has to offer. She has a love of the outdoors and spends her free time hiking, skiing, cycling and most recently has taken an interest in alpine climbing. You can contact Dr. Barrett at (509) 927-8997.

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING

How did biofuels go wrong?

Why a Global Food Crisis Threatens to Derail Environmental Support // By Argyle Baukol The biofuels frenzy has gotten everyone all worked up. Biofuels can save us from global warming, carbon emissions, and transportation guilt, all without sacrificing the standard of modern living. It also translates into new jobs and strong local economies. But is it everything it is claimed to be?

Alternative fuels, processed from plant material, are seen as a key to diverting America’s dependence on foreign oil. With the potential to be produced locally, biofuels opens the door for economic development and jobs that could never be outsourced. But with a world-wide food crisis now taking center stage, many are looking to the burgeoning biofuels sector as a cause of esalating food prices.

Lester Brown, President of the Earth Policy Institute, says that something unprecedented is happening with the growing industry. The author of Plan B 2.0: Rescuing a Planet Under Stress and a Civilization in Trouble, delivered a call of warning in June 2007 to the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Brown said, “The food and energy economies, historically separate, are now merging. In this new economy, if the fuel value of grain exceeds its food value, the market will move it into the energy economy. As the price Biofuel machinery waiting to be used. //

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The cost of wheat has soared, which is advantageous for local farmers who are reluctant to change over now. of oil climbs so will the price of food.”

The prices of some food items have more than doubled in the last two years checking in at all time highs and sparking riots and protests in many cities from Bangladesh, to Mexico, China, Pakistan, and Africa.

The United State’s corn crops account for nearly 70% of the world’s corn imports. Typically the corn isn’t directly eaten but is used to produce such items as milk, eggs, cheese, chicken, ham, ground beef, ice cream and yogurt—affecting the price of many food products.

Nikola Davidson, Director of the Northwest Biofuels Association (NBA), warns caution of blaming biofuels for the food crisis. “There are at least eleven points that can be found in what led to the increasing cost of food,” says Davidson.

She believes that the record high petroleum costs have a bigger impact on food prices than the biofuels industry, especially considering the various

ways that agriculture uses petroleum for fertilizer, transport, and machinery.

Davidson says other underestimated but large factors to food prices are commodities speculators, and the increasing wealth in other nations.

“China and India are increasing their standard of living and when countries with such large populations start demanding more meat that affects us all.” Listing more factors, Davidson says, “Also droughts in Australia and Europe, regional natural disasters/pests/diseases, increases in labor and fuel costs globally, a declining dollar driving exports, increase in food commodity speculation, and corporate profits at retail have all contributed to higher food costs.”

One of the reasons that many advocates began supporting biofuels was for the environmental benefits, but today those too, are under fire. This year, a new study from University of Washington found that without implementing high standards for production, some biofuels will cause serious harm to the environment and reduce biodiversity.

The most common biofuel, corn, is the most environmentally intensive crop. It requires the most fertilizer and its acreage is increasing. With the help of ethanol-based incentives, corn growers planted a record corn crop last year.

Two studies published in the journal, Science, this past year reflect the waning environmental virtues of biofuels in regards to how they affect land use. The lead author of one of those studies, Joseph Fargione, a scientist at the Nature Conservancy said the amount of U.S. croplands going into gas tanks has caused unexpected land use changes in other countries. Farmers far away have cleared undeveloped land, and the study finds that whether grassland or rain forest is cleared, greenhouse gases are released. Important ecosystems that absorb carbon emissions better than cropland are destroyed.

The national shift toward alternative fuels has been guided by several federal, state and local policies. With the Energy Policy Act of 2005 President George Bush made steps toward addressing climate change and energy security through home-based energy sources like coal and so-called clean coal, as well as nuclear and renewable energy options.

The act also established a national Renewable Fuels Standard which doubled the use of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel and guarantees growth in the biofuels sector.

The Energy Policy Act improved several tax credits for blenders and producers of ethanol as well as implementing the Renewable Fuels Standard. The RFS was established last year and originally aimed for 4 billion gallons in production and an increase to 7.5 billions gallons by 2012, but that goal was amended this year to double production in order to abide by the Energy Independence and Security Act. The standard now aims for 9 billion gallons to be produced this year and to reach 36 billion by 2022.

Even city and state governments have enacted their own Renewable Fuel Standards. Everybody wants a piece of the new industry. The RFS rules are outlined in a report released in February 2008 Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)—a government research lab for the U.S. Department of Energy. The report “Biofuels in Oregon and Washington: A Business Case

SUSTAINABLE LIVING Analysis of Opportunities and Challenges,” studies the next generation crops, cellulosic ethanol, wood for fuel from forestry, and industrial solid waste as potential resources.

Terry Lawhead, Community, Trade and Economic Development’s Regional Manager for Eastern Washington, also works for the NBA and says that the real benefit from biofuels comes in rural sustainability and putting diverse crops in rotation which makes soil healthier year-round.

“The Brassica family of plants includes mustard, rapeseed and canola, among others. Each variety requires a defined soil type, rainfall distribution and climate to provide maximum yields. For example, mustard grows better in the eastern part of the state near Idaho and canola has higher yields further west toward the drier central valley; when used as a rotational crop they provide for better wheat and barley production and improve the soil.”

The problem is getting farmers invested in the new agriculture. Like other food prices, the cost of wheat has soared, which is advantageous for local farmers who are reluctant to change over now. If

biofuels are to be sustainable in the long-term, crops must be grown regionally.

According to the PNNL, there are plans to construct eight ethanol plants to generate 400 million gallons per year and plans for biodiesel would create 127 million gallons per year. “However, these fuels will be produced almost entirely from crops grown elsewhere,” the report says. Ethanol will still come from corn from the Midwest and biodiesel will rely on imported vegetable oil. The report goes on to say, “A clear challenge for Oregon and Washington lies in identifying local biomass resources that can support further growth of the industry in a way that realizes the in-state production goals of both states.” //

For more information check the sites: Northwest Biofuels Association:

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http://www.nwbiofuels.org/ Pacific Northwest National Laboratory: http://www.pnl.gov/

SUSTAINABLE LIVING CALENDAR // (June - August) Twin Eagles Wilderness Adventure Summer Camps. When: 9 AM - 3PM. Where: Sandpoint, ID, Spokane,

WA & Priest River, ID. For ages 6 and older.

Emphasis on earth-based mentoring. Info: www.twineagles.org.

(June – August) Registration: Sustainable Building Advisor Program. When: Class

meets all-day Friday (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM) and Saturday (8 AM – 1 PM). Where: CenterPlace 2426 N. Discovery Place. New session begins September 26th. This nationally-recognized certificate program enables graduates to advise employers or clients on strategies and tools for implementing sustainable building. The course includes, but is not limited to, LEED and Built Green concepts. Cost: $1950, preregistration required, $250 discount if you register by June 20th. Info: 509-533-4717 or tmangrum@iel.spokane.edu or www.iel.spokane.edu/bct/sbap.

(June 1) Kids Growing Food. When: 1:30 – 2:30 PM. Where: Transitional Living Center,

3128 North Hemlock. Slow Food Spokane River & Transitions for Women host an event that connects children with where our food comes from. We supply the plant starts and dirt. You bring a minimum gallon size pot and some excitement to grow your own food.

For children over 5. Info: (509) 325-2959 or sf.spokaneriver@gmail.com.

(June 2) Exploring Alternative Energy Systems for Residential Construction.

When: 6 – 9 PM. Where: CenterPlace 2426 N.

Discovery Place. Geared towards homeowners, this 3-hour overview discusses energy use in sustainable systems and explores the costs, merits and the potential applications of various alternative energy systems including: solar, wind, geothermal, and micro hydro. $49, preregistration required. Info: (509) 533-4717 or tmangrum@iel.spokane.edu

(June 3) Alternative Wall Systems for Residential Green Building. When: 6 – 9 PM. Where: CenterPlace 2426 N. Discovery Place.

Explores energy-saving alternatives to standard home construction, including; advanced wood framing, Structural Insulated Panels (SIP), Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), and straw bale. $49, pre-registration required.

Info: (509) 533-4717 or tmangrum@iel.spokane.edu.

(June 3) Greening Our Neighborhood Film Series. When: 7 – 9 PM. Where: The Farm-

Eco House (2605 W. Boone). Monthly topic will be “The Greening of Cuba and Local Living Economies.” Dollar donation suggested. Info: Connie Copeland Malone (509) 434-8160.

(June 16 – 19) Girls Summer Science Camp.

When: 9 AM – 3:30 PM. Where: Spokane

County Libraries. Learn science while playing outdoor games. Topic: “Catch the Reading Bug.” Info: www.wvolc.org.

(June 26) Creating a Strong PPG Application for Green Building Projects. When: 10 AM – 4 PM. Where: Hal Holmes Community

Center, Ellensburg,WA. An overview of the Public Participation Grant Process. Public Participation Grants provide funding to notfor profit and other community groups to educate Washington Citizens to the importance of Beyond Waste principles and to help involve the public in the investigation and cleanup of contaminated properties. Info: Alli Grayfisher (509) 329-3448 or agra461@ecy.wa.gov.

(August 4 – 9) Strawbale Construction for Building Professionals. When: TBA. Where:

Celebrating Our 10th Season Open Every Saturday 8am – 1pm

Wednesdays Market Begins June 11 Live Music, Featured Guests, & Fun Activities *Visit our website for the detailed schedule*

On 2nd Ave. between Division and Browne Downtown Spokane

www.spokanefarmersmarket.org

Pendelton, OR. Terry K. Phelan and Habib John Gonzalez will team together at a new 21/2 story home for a 5-day hands-on intensive.

Info: Theresa Phelan (425) 427-8643 or www. livingshelter.com. //

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what’s your GEAR? [sport climbing] by mira copeland BEN LARKIN

Ben Larkin bouldering. //

Climb naked. Would you do it? Here in the Inland Northwest, home to the bare buns fun run and more than a few souls who aren’t opposed to a skinny dip now and then, you may not be all that surprised by Spokane-grown Ben Larkin’s website, called ClimbNakedShoes.com.

“When it comes down to it,” he says, “all you really need to go climbing is a decent pair of shoes.” His site, currently a climbing forum, plans to retail shoes online in the near future.

Larkin himself is a climbing enthusiast, who started climbing in grad school. “I went once or twice in high school,” he says, “with my mom, but then I started going more regularly with a friend, and eventually I started going every day, met some new friends there, and really got into it.”

Larkin says he loves climbing for the personal challenge—“It’s a really humbling sport; you can watch and think it’s a piece of cake, but when you get up there and try it, the climb becomes a whole new challenge and you have to try new things,” he says. “It’s an achievement any time you get to move on to the next level of difficulty.”

Larkin climbs mostly indoors and on sportclimbing routes, and he says his favorite moments are “it’s great when you can flash—just do the route the first attempt.” Let’s take a look at the gear that gets him up; and fortunately, for this interviewer, his gear does consist of more than just shoes.

------------------------------------------------------Shoes: A pair of FiveTen Galileos. “I needed a new pair of shoes when I went climbing at Leavenworth last summer, because the old ones had holes in them.” He likes the rubber of the FiveTens better than his old Mad Rocks: “the rubber on the old shoes started falling apart as soon as I went outside with them—the rocks at Minnehaha really tore them up.”

------------------------------------------------------Socks? “No socks at all—you put your feet in your shoes barefoot so you can limit the shoe

slop.” He adds, “I don’t care if my feet are killing me, because I know I’ll be able to take them off in a few minutes, anyway.”

------------------------------------------------------Harness: Mamut. It has a self-locking waist band. Larkin mentioned Petzl makes some harnesses with self-locking leg bands, as well, but he likes his because “you don’t have to double-back it, so it’s convenient and it wasn’t too pricey.”

------------------------------------------------------Belay Device: Larkin uses two belay devices, a Black Diamond ATC and a Trango Cinch. He uses the cinch primarily, because “I think it’s better than the GriGri, because it’s easier to lower people when I’m belaying them.” He uses the ATC when he does sport climbing routes he’ll be belaying down.

------------------------------------------------------Carabiner: Larkin prefers self-locking carabiners. “You don’t have to finger-tighten it, but it’s pretty much impossible for the thing to open on its own,” he says.

------------------------------------------------------Chalk: Metolius Super Chalk. “It’s super, but it doesn’t make you climb any better,” he says.

Larkin doesn’t take much stock in powdered courage, but like anyone, he gets sweaty palms now and then, too. “It’s always nice to sit back and dip your hands in the bag.”

------------------------------------------------------Ropes: The relationship between a man and his climbing rope is not a relationship to be formed haphazardly. “Ropes can be quite a lot to take care of. They’re high maintenance. If I was going to buy one,” he says, “it would probably be a

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JUNE 2008

Mamut rope.”

------------------------------------------------------Clothing: “Shorts, or something that doesn’t hang down over your feet so you can see your feet while you’re up there.” Also, he adds, “preferably shirtless to show off my muscles.”

His checklist before heading out for a climb?

Shoes, harness, some carabiners, both belay devices, chalk, and a friend who owns a rope. “The friend can come too,” he says. //

FiveTen Galileo shoe and trango cinch. //

BOOK REVIEWS Dead Lucky: Life After Death on Mount Everest Lincoln Hall, Tarcher/Penguin, 2008, 294 pages

Volunteer trail maintenance work is a fun, fulfilling way to get out in nature with old and new friends, learn about wilderness traditions and tools, and give something back to the trails that make it possible for us to enjoy our treasured wild places and wildlife in northeast WA. No experience is required and families and youth are welcome.

E-mail newatrailwork@yahoo.com or call the trip leader listed for details and to RSVP.

Trail Maintenance Volunteer Trips: • June 28-30—Kettle Crest Trail (747-1663) • July 12-13— Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (921-8928) • July 19-20—Salmo Priest Wilderness (536-6432) • July 26-27—Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (921-8928) • August 2-3—Shoe Tree Trail (747-1663) • August 9-10—Salmo Priest Wilderness (939-3756) • August 16-18—Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (536-6432) • September 6-7—Salmo Priest Wilderness (939-3756) • September 13-14—Salmo Priest Wilderness (747-1663)

Thanks to REI and the Spring Trust for Trails for their financial support of volunteer trail maintenance efforts on the Colville National Forest!

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Video

While not quite Lazarus, Lincoln Hall is a “resurrected” veteran mountain climber from Australia who was left for dead on Mount Everest by three Sherpa members of his expedition team on May 25, 2006. Hall—age 50 at the time of his second Everest summit attempt—had high-altitude cerebral edema and was combative and finally unresponsive with the Sherpas assisting him. Eventually, they were ordered by their expedition leader to leave the unconscious Hall and descend for their own survival.

Declared dead by the expedition leader, the global media as well as Hall’s wife and two teenage sons received news of his demise. But his story didn’t end there, of course, which is what makes this memoir such a riveting read.

The morning of May 26, an American climbing guide—Dan Mazur from Olympia, Washington— his two clients and a Sherpa found Hall alive.

They sacrificed their own summit bid to care for Hall while waiting for his base camp rescue team to arrive. As Hall describes in his book, the descent with two abusive Sherpas was just as dangerous.

Hall’s well-written first-person chronicle offers observations and edema-induced hallucinogenic memories, as well as contemplative reflection on the psychological, emotional and mental aspects of his near- survival and near-death experience.

Even though there was great weather during the 2006 Everest season, eleven climbers died. But Hall doesn’t consider himself stronger or more extraordinary than those who didn’t survive.

Rather, he examines the Everest climber mindset and what factors—attitude and meditation (Hall is a longtime student of Tibetan Buddhism)— contributed to his “lucky” ability to live through a night in the “death zone.”

Lincoln Hall completes his North American book tour with two events in Seattle—June 10 at REI and June 11 at the University Bookstore (7 p.m. start time for both). // Amy S. McCaffree

Dark Summit Nick Heil, Henry Holt and Company, 2008, 251 pages

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Dark Summit by Nick Heil delves into the most controversial Everest climbing season ever and investigates nearly a dozen gripping and traumatic stories. Nick unravels the events and the arguments that surrounded not one, but multiple, divisive deaths. These tragedies intermingle with two impossible rescues that in turn only heighten the discord within the mountaineering community.

Writing anything reasonably insightful about Mount Everest takes a great deal of wit and finesse. Too many clever people have tried and failed, and in doing so they muddy up most Everest books. To make matters worse, the majority of recent Everest books increasingly involve “I was on that expedition too and this is the true story”. Heil wisely foregoes the assumption that everyone has read Into Thin Air, in which case the reader does not even need to know much about the Everest in order to appreciate the adventure found there.

Truth be told, Dark Summit capitalizes on some unique conditions from the 2006 season including crazy web and print media coverage

worldwide, a cable television documentary, as well as the swelling unrest in that part of the world. At the start of it all, Nick was on assignment for Outside Magazine for some feature articles, web content, and perhaps a few big interviews. However, he couldn’t have forecast this much turmoil with an oxygen mask attached to a crystal ball.

Most of the key characters are introduced in advance, but because the book is primarily about the events and their inherent dilemmas, it stays evenly paced from beginning to end.

Dark Summit, similar to climbing Everest itself, acclimatizes the reader through greater and greater detail the further the season progresses.

Hypothermia and frostbite are explained. Everest rock features, Sherpa bad habits, even international guiding quandaries are revealed as the book probes further and higher.

Nick Heil exhibits a great deal of wit and finesse to capture and contain all that happened that year, and he takes an honest look at how the ultimate mountaineering prize might be escalating out of control. // Jon Jonckers

Under a Green Sky Peter D. Ward, PhD, Smithsonian Books / Collins, 2007, 242 pages

Sometime in the next century inhabitants of earth may awaken to pale green skies. The color shift brought on by a dramatic increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide and high altitude haze resulting from increasing temperatures on the planet. In Under a Green Sky, author Ward explores both the causes of and impacts from today’s rapid increase in our planets atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration.

Examining the role of atmospheric carbon dioxide in several prehistoric mass extinctions, Ward postulates the impact of the current upward trend in carbon dioxide on earth’s present populations.

Several elements in the book stand out. First is its readability. Ward handles complex technical ideas, like isotope ratios and oceanic conveyor currents, in a way that the average reader will comprehend. The one shortfall of the book’s technical coverage is the presumption that the reader is familiar with the geologic timescale. The book needs a summary of that timescale. Second, you will travel with the author on numerous paleontologic and geologic explorations to remote parts of the planet searching for answers to questions about the earth’s many mass extinctions. Finally, you will learn why the atmospheric changes we see today are different from those of the past.

One learns that the absolute magnitude of the atmosphere’s carbon dioxide level is less important than the rate of change. In the prehistoric past, before the planets carbon dioxide was incorporated in the coal, oil and gas we are burning today, carbon dioxide levels were ten times what they are now. The extinctions Ward describes were triggered by carbon dioxide induced temperature increases of a few degrees in a few millennia or tens of millennia. Today, we see the same temperature change occurring in decades.

Through Ward’s book, the reader will come to understand the complex interrelationship between the atmosphere ocean currents and life on earth. Enlighten yourself on the complexities of climate impacts. Gain a modicum of hope by learning some ways to slow the change, read Under a Green Sky. // Stan Miller

BOOK REVIEWS Dead Lucky: Life After Death on Mount Everest Lincoln Hall, Tarcher/Penguin, 2008, 294 pages

Volunteer trail maintenance work is a fun, fulfilling way to get out in nature with old and new friends, learn about wilderness traditions and tools, and give something back to the trails that make it possible for us to enjoy our treasured wild places and wildlife in northeast WA. No experience is required and families and youth are welcome.

E-mail newatrailwork@yahoo.com or call the trip leader listed for details and to RSVP.

Trail Maintenance Volunteer Trips: • June 28-30—Kettle Crest Trail (747-1663) • July 12-13— Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (921-8928) • July 19-20—Salmo Priest Wilderness (536-6432) • July 26-27—Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (921-8928) • August 2-3—Shoe Tree Trail (747-1663) • August 9-10—Salmo Priest Wilderness (939-3756) • August 16-18—Salmo Priest Wilderness (Backpack Style) (536-6432) • September 6-7—Salmo Priest Wilderness (939-3756) • September 13-14—Salmo Priest Wilderness (747-1663)

Thanks to REI and the Spring Trust for Trails for their financial support of volunteer trail maintenance efforts on the Colville National Forest!

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Video

While not quite Lazarus, Lincoln Hall is a “resurrected” veteran mountain climber from Australia who was left for dead on Mount Everest by three Sherpa members of his expedition team on May 25, 2006. Hall—age 50 at the time of his second Everest summit attempt—had high-altitude cerebral edema and was combative and finally unresponsive with the Sherpas assisting him. Eventually, they were ordered by their expedition leader to leave the unconscious Hall and descend for their own survival.

Declared dead by the expedition leader, the global media as well as Hall’s wife and two teenage sons received news of his demise. But his story didn’t end there, of course, which is what makes this memoir such a riveting read.

The morning of May 26, an American climbing guide—Dan Mazur from Olympia, Washington— his two clients and a Sherpa found Hall alive.

They sacrificed their own summit bid to care for Hall while waiting for his base camp rescue team to arrive. As Hall describes in his book, the descent with two abusive Sherpas was just as dangerous.

Hall’s well-written first-person chronicle offers observations and edema-induced hallucinogenic memories, as well as contemplative reflection on the psychological, emotional and mental aspects of his near- survival and near-death experience.

Even though there was great weather during the 2006 Everest season, eleven climbers died. But Hall doesn’t consider himself stronger or more extraordinary than those who didn’t survive.

Rather, he examines the Everest climber mindset and what factors—attitude and meditation (Hall is a longtime student of Tibetan Buddhism)— contributed to his “lucky” ability to live through a night in the “death zone.”

Lincoln Hall completes his North American book tour with two events in Seattle—June 10 at REI and June 11 at the University Bookstore (7 p.m. start time for both). // Amy S. McCaffree

Dark Summit Nick Heil, Henry Holt and Company, 2008, 251 pages

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22

Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

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Dark Summit by Nick Heil delves into the most controversial Everest climbing season ever and investigates nearly a dozen gripping and traumatic stories. Nick unravels the events and the arguments that surrounded not one, but multiple, divisive deaths. These tragedies intermingle with two impossible rescues that in turn only heighten the discord within the mountaineering community.

Writing anything reasonably insightful about Mount Everest takes a great deal of wit and finesse. Too many clever people have tried and failed, and in doing so they muddy up most Everest books. To make matters worse, the majority of recent Everest books increasingly involve “I was on that expedition too and this is the true story”. Heil wisely foregoes the assumption that everyone has read Into Thin Air, in which case the reader does not even need to know much about the Everest in order to appreciate the adventure found there.

Truth be told, Dark Summit capitalizes on some unique conditions from the 2006 season including crazy web and print media coverage

worldwide, a cable television documentary, as well as the swelling unrest in that part of the world. At the start of it all, Nick was on assignment for Outside Magazine for some feature articles, web content, and perhaps a few big interviews. However, he couldn’t have forecast this much turmoil with an oxygen mask attached to a crystal ball.

Most of the key characters are introduced in advance, but because the book is primarily about the events and their inherent dilemmas, it stays evenly paced from beginning to end.

Dark Summit, similar to climbing Everest itself, acclimatizes the reader through greater and greater detail the further the season progresses.

Hypothermia and frostbite are explained. Everest rock features, Sherpa bad habits, even international guiding quandaries are revealed as the book probes further and higher.

Nick Heil exhibits a great deal of wit and finesse to capture and contain all that happened that year, and he takes an honest look at how the ultimate mountaineering prize might be escalating out of control. // Jon Jonckers

Under a Green Sky Peter D. Ward, PhD, Smithsonian Books / Collins, 2007, 242 pages

Sometime in the next century inhabitants of earth may awaken to pale green skies. The color shift brought on by a dramatic increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide and high altitude haze resulting from increasing temperatures on the planet. In Under a Green Sky, author Ward explores both the causes of and impacts from today’s rapid increase in our planets atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration.

Examining the role of atmospheric carbon dioxide in several prehistoric mass extinctions, Ward postulates the impact of the current upward trend in carbon dioxide on earth’s present populations.

Several elements in the book stand out. First is its readability. Ward handles complex technical ideas, like isotope ratios and oceanic conveyor currents, in a way that the average reader will comprehend. The one shortfall of the book’s technical coverage is the presumption that the reader is familiar with the geologic timescale. The book needs a summary of that timescale. Second, you will travel with the author on numerous paleontologic and geologic explorations to remote parts of the planet searching for answers to questions about the earth’s many mass extinctions. Finally, you will learn why the atmospheric changes we see today are different from those of the past.

One learns that the absolute magnitude of the atmosphere’s carbon dioxide level is less important than the rate of change. In the prehistoric past, before the planets carbon dioxide was incorporated in the coal, oil and gas we are burning today, carbon dioxide levels were ten times what they are now. The extinctions Ward describes were triggered by carbon dioxide induced temperature increases of a few degrees in a few millennia or tens of millennia. Today, we see the same temperature change occurring in decades.

Through Ward’s book, the reader will come to understand the complex interrelationship between the atmosphere ocean currents and life on earth. Enlighten yourself on the complexities of climate impacts. Gain a modicum of hope by learning some ways to slow the change, read Under a Green Sky. // Stan Miller

OUTDOOR CALENDAR Climbing When: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Tuesdays). Where: Wild Walls, 202 W. 2nd Ave. For kids ages 4 – 10 years. Please call ahead. Cost: $12 (single visit), $64 (pass). Info: (509) 455-9596.

(June, Tuesdays) Discover Rock Climbing.

When: 6 PM – 8 PM. Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division. Cost: $20. Info: www. mgear.com.

(June 1-28) Top Rope Anchors. When: 9-3PM.

Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division.

Take your climbing to the next level and outdoors with Top Rope Anchors. You’ll learn to set up top ropes on both bolts and natural anchors. We will spend the morning learning knots and anchor systems and the afternoon climbing on your anchors. Must have own harness, shoes and belaying system and be able to belay. Cost: $60. Info: (509) 325-9000.

Birding (June 14) Wildlife Photography Workshop.

When: 9AM. Where: Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. Local photographer Rich Leon will present a workshop and photo-finding hike at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, just south of Cheney. The workshop will begin at 9 A.M. and last until 1 P.M. All ages are welcome. Funding is by donation, and there is a $3 entry fee (per vehicle) at the Refuge gate. Bring your camera and a lunch! This event supported by Friends of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. Info: Louise O’Leary at (509) 235-4531, or email her at looeezoleary@netscape.net.

Cycling (Ongoing) Spokane’s Bike Buddy Program.

When: Ongoing. Where: Spokane, WA. The Bike Buddy Program matches you with a trained volunteer familiar with the commute between your neighborhood and workplace. Sponsored by the Spokane Bicycle Club and Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Info: SpokaneBikeBuddy@aol. com.

By appointment. Where: Spokane, WA. John Speare, member of the Spokane Bicycle Advisory Board, tracks your commuter cycling route with a GPS receiver. Info: johnspeare@gmail.com (ongoing) Pedals2People Bike Donations Needed. When: Mon/Weds nights; 6-8pm.

Where: P2P Garage: South Hill. P2P is seeking donated bikes for our programs. We are taking repairable adult bikes. Call for directions to the garage: 842-6597. Or visit pedals2people.org.

(June 1) Loreen Miller Bike Ride. When: 7AM Check in starts for 8am century ride, 9AM half century and 10AM family ride. Where: TBD. A ride for all levels and proceeds go directly to cancer patients and their families in the Inland Northwest. Riders enjoy a pancake breakfast, lunch and entertainment. Info: (509) 456-0446 or www.cancerpatientcare.org.

(June 7) REARDAN MULE DAYS BIKE RALLY. When:

8AM. Where: Meet at Denny’s Foods in Medical

getting in and out of your boat, spray skirts, paddles and strokes, bracing, stopping and sweeps, wet exit, self and tandem rescue. After this class, you’re ready for the San Juans! Cost: $50. Info: (509) 325-9000.

Bike Orienteering. When: 8-11AM. Where: Great Northern School, West Spokane. Three hour course, 24 check points, can start at leisure anytime between 8-11 am. Final event in the 3 race Spring series. $20 entry fee, refreshments and Tshirts after race. Start and Finish is at the Great Northern School, West Spokane. Info: Ken Bell (509) 327-7220 or www.spokanetrailquest.com.

Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division. This class is designed to get you into your canoe and to your destination with as little effort and stress as possible. Class covers boat types, basic and some advanced strokes, appropriate clothing combinations, safety for both self and others, paddles, storage and rigging. Cost: $25. Info: (509) 325-9000.

(June 8) Spokane Trailquest Mt.

(June 15) The Elk Vintage Cruiser Bike Ride.

When: 3pm. Where: The Elk, Brown’s Edition.

Vintage bike ride to David’s Pizza. All bikes are invited, the older the bike the better. Come have fun and meet other vintage enthusiasts.

Hopefully it won’t snow! All Cruisers are invited. Third Sunday of every month. Info: (509) 499-5422, or newtimebomb@hotmail.com.

Hiking/ Backpacking (June 19) Intro to Backpacking Class. When:

6-8PM. Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division. Learn all there is to learn about backpacking without actually putting one on. This class will cover all the basics from socks and shoes to tents and water filters. Bring your questions and plan on participating in this interactive event. Free. Info: (509) 325-9000.

Paddling (June 3) Paddling Washington. When: 7PM.

Where: REI Spokane, 1125 N Monroe St., Spokane, WA. Rich Landers and Dan Hansen discuss their new book, Paddling Washington.

Slide-talk followed by Q&A and book signing. Admission: Free. Info: (509) 328-9900.

(June 3, 24) Canoe & Kayak Demo. When: 5:30 -

7:3)PM. Where: Spokane River, Boulder Beach.

Whether you’re a new boater or want to take your paddling to the next level, come try the latest in kayaking and canoeing with Mountain Gear’s free demos. Conveniently located at the Spokane River’s Boulder Beach, these demos are a great opportunity to try new boat designs.

If there is a boat you would like to have brought out, just give us a call the day of, and we will have it waiting for you. Free. Info: (509) 3259000.

(June 7, 29) Rec Kayaking Class. When: 10-

Noon. Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division. Recreational kayaking is all about fun, and we’ll teach you how to get into your boat and to your destination with as little stress as possible. Class covers boat types, basic and some advanced strokes, appropriate clothing combinations, safety for self and others, gear, dry storage and rigging. Class will also discuss currents and wind. Cost: $30. Info: (509) 3259000.

(June 7, 29) Tour Kayaking Class. When: 1-

5PM. Where: Mountain Gear, 2002 North Division. Tour lakes, coastlines and islands with a complete set of boat-handling skills. Class covers: personal and safety gear, kayak design,

(June 10) Canoe Class. When: 5:30 – 9PM.

(June 14) Paddle Fair. When: 10- 4PM. Where:

Nine-Mile Recreation Are, Riverside State Park.

Paddle Fair is a FREE event open to all ages and abilities. Join us to try out the latest in canoeing and kayaking! Participants and spectators are welcome to come out and enjoy the water, sun, and a fun-filled event. Try out top-of-the-line boats and gear from the biggest manufacturers, including Current Designs, Wenonah, Necky, Hobie, Heritage, Advanced Frames, Aqua-Bound, Werner and many more. Representatives from many of these companies will be on hand to answer all your questions.

Info: (509) 325-9000.

(June 15) Canoe Classic. When: 11AM. Where:

Nine-Mile Recreation Are, Riverside State Park.

The Spokane River Canoe Classic has evolved into a great family event for Father’s Day weekend, and over 150 participants and spectators are expected to come out this year. This all-ages, all-abilities day is for everyone. There are two courses to choose from, with a 4-mile “Citizens” course for casual paddlers and an 8-mile “Marathon” course for those interested in testing their endurance. Cost: $20. Info: (509) 325-9000.

(June 19) Hydrotherapy. When: 4:30PM. Where:

TBD. HydroTherapy Sessions are FREE grassroots learning events for kayakers of all skill levels and ages. (Donations to the WW park encourage.)

Structured like a competition, this series will be judged by Jud Keiser. Prizes are awarded to all competitors who show up for this FREE event. Info: hydrotherapysessions.blogspot.com.

Running/Walking/Marathons (Thursdays—March-November) Flying Irish Running Club. When: 6PM. Where: O’Doherty’s

Irish Grille 525 West Spokane Falls Boulevard.

Weekly 3 mile fun-runs, with walkers always welcome. Run six times and earn a free shirt good for food & drink discounts afterwards. EZ & fun 3 milers with food & drink half-priced afterwards!

Free clothing too! Info: (509) 747-0322, or www. flyingirish.org.

(June 21) 21st Annual Foothills Scenic Five. When:

8AM. Where: Foothills Community Center, 11000 North Forker Road. Participants may choose to run or walk a five, three, or one mile course in a beautiful rural setting, followed by a pancake breakfast. Info: (509) 921-8928, http://ruralspokane.com.

(June 29) VM Team Medicine Seafair Marathon.

When: Check website. Where: Seattle, WA. Includes Relay, Half Marathon, Kid’s Mini-Marathon. New course goes over 520 floating bridge. Info: www. seafairmarathon.com.

CALENDAR

(Ongoing) Commuter Bike Project. When:

Lake. Mountain bikes meet at SFCC at 7AM. Cruiser bikes come and ride in the parade.

Parade starts at 10AM. Check staging area for place in the parade. Stay for food, fun, games, and the car show. Info: (509) 624-8617.

JUNE2008 OUTDOOR

(Ongoing) Spider Monkey climbing Club.

SUBMIT your event at www.outtheremonthly.com

JUNE 2008

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Out There Monthly

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outdoor calendar SAILING (June 14-15) Hobie Regatta. When: TBD. Where: Lake Coeur d’Alene. A new organization, named Sailing the Inland Northwest, plans a series of events beginning in April 2008, and ranging from Hobie Cat and keelboat regattas, and remote-controlled model sailboat races. The club includes an organizational website, monthly events and activities, and an e-mail news group.

There is no cost to join. Info: visit www.sailcda. com or call Miles Moore at (208) 762-7110.

Triathlon/Multisport (Ongoing Wednesday’s through summer) Moms In Motion Triathlon Training. When:

Every Wednesday at 5:45PM. Where: Witter Pool in Mission Park. Train for triathlons this summe with Moms In Motion. More info at orientation June 5 at 7pm at REI or Kirsten at tkdehart@hotmail.com Info: (509) 327-9143, www.momsinmotion.com.

(June 21) X Terra Solstice Triathlon. When:

Check website. Where: La Grande, Oregon.

Off-road triathlon. Includes: 1K swim, 11K run, 25K bike, kids duathlon. Info: www.solsticetraithlon.com.

Yoga (Ongoing) Yoga Classes. When: See below.

Where: South Perry Yoga, 1006 S. Perry. Mon 10:15am Intro to Yoga ,Tues 10:15am Beg II, Mon 7:30pm Multilevel, and Flow Mon/Wed 12:10pm. Info: www.Southperryoga.com or call Shawn 443-6241.

(June 4-7) 1st Year Anniversary Open House.

When: See description. Where: Twist Yoga Studio. Free Yoga Classes: 6/4- 5:30pm Ashtanga1, 6/5- 7:15pm Basic Yoga, 6/6- 4:00pm Vinyasa Flow, 6/7- 9:30am 108 Sun Salutations, 6/78:30pm Labryinth Walk w/ music. Info: (509) 995-5505, www.twistyogastudio.com.

Meetings (June 19) SPRING INTO ACTION - GET OUT WITH A GROUP. When: 6 - 7:30PM. Where: 6021 E.

Mansfield Spokane Valley. Inland Northwest Trails Coalition will introduce outdoor activity groups and organizations. Bring something “outdoors” that you can’t use but someone else might for a drawing! Info: KJ4Trails@comcast. net, http://www.inlandnorthwesttrails.org.

Events, Movies, Misc.

(June 2-30) Outdoor FIT (Fitness Interval Training). When: 9:15AM and 5:3PM. Where:

SouthHill area parks. Beginners BootCamp Style of self paced exercise. Squats, step ups, resistance bands, pushups, core all included!

Registration REI May 28@7pm $99. Info: (509) 710-6111, wellbodystudio@hotmail.com.

(June 7 & 8) The Farm Chicks Antique Show.

When: 10AM-6PM. Where: Spokane County Fairgrounds. Antiques, vintage, and handmade goods. Info: (509) 954-1692, www.thefarmchicks.com (June 21, 28) Workshop On Pine-needle Basket Weaving. When: 9AM. Where: Turnbull 24

Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

submit your event at www.outtheremonthly.com

National Wildlife Refuge. Local artist Louise O Leary will present a two-day workshop at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, just south of Cheney. The baskets will be started on the first Saturday, finished on the second. Classes start at 9 A.M. and end at 2 P.M., so feel free to bring a lunch. There is a onetime $7.50 cost for materials, and a $3 entry fee (per vehicle) at the Refuge gate. Class size is limited to 10, so please preregister. This event supported by Friends of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. Info: Louise O’Leary at (509) 235-4531, or email her at looeezoleary@netscape.net.

(June 21) Mother Daughter Day at Schweitzer.

When: 9AM – 4:30PM. Where: Schweitzer Mt. Resort. Learn to use basic tools; construct tile mosaic and other fun projects. Enjoy team building and friendly competitions. Take your masterpieces home. Have fun with the girls, relax and empower yourself. Snacks, tools and materials are included. Cost: $15.00 per person for two person team. $5.00 for each additional team member. Pre-registration required.

Info: Schweitzer’s Activity Center at (208) 2553081.

(June 23) 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. When: 6:3PM.

Where: Magic Lantern Theatre, 25 W. Main Ave., Ste 150. Idaho Rivers United celebrates our nation’s Wild & Scenic Rivers with author and photographer Tim Palmer. Join us for stunning slides, essays and lecture. $5. Info: 1-800-7547481, www.idahorivers.org.

(June 24) 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. When: 6:3PM.

Where: North Idaho College, Meyer Health & Science Building. Idaho Rivers United celebrates our nation’s Wild & Scenic Rivers with author and photographer Tim Palmer. Join us for stunning slides, essays and lecture. $5. Info: 1-800-754-7481, www.idahorivers.org.

(June 28) Schweitzer Summer Celebration.

When: Chairlift open 10AM-5PM. Where: Schweitzer Mountain Resort. BBQ starts at 11am This is the grand opening weekend for Schweitzer Mountain summer operations. To celebrate, rides on the Great Escape Quad are free all day! In the village there will be a barbecue, mountain bike rentals, the Power Tower bungee trampoline, climbing wall, free live music, and free tennis. At the top of the Great Escape Quad there will be Diggler Mountain Scooter rentals, disc golf, geocaching, refreshments and more! Live music in the village – local favorites! Laura Convery & Tennis. FREE music and chairlift rides! Info: (208) 255-3081. //

SIX MONTH TRAINING CALENDAR // Cycling

Marathon, Leavenworth, WA. Info: www.

(July 5) Silveroxx Downhill Mountain Bike Festival. Info: www.silvermt.com

triathlon/Multisport

(July 12) Tour of Pain. Road cycling. Info:

www.steamplantgrill.com.

(July 27) Tour de Kitsap hosted by West Sound Cycling Club. Info: www.west-

soundcycling.com.

(August 2) Eight Lakes Leg Aches. Cheney/

Spokane, WA. Info: www.lcsnw.org/events.

(August) 8 Lakes Leg Aches. Road cycling,

info: www.lscnw.org

leavenworthmarathon.com

(July 6) Barclays North Ironman 70-3.

Lake Stevens, WA. Info: www.lakestevens703.com.

(July 12-13) Ocean Shores Big Weekend, Ocean Shores, WA. Info: www.trifreak.

com.

(July 13) Valley Girl Tri. Liberty Lake, WA. Info: www.valleygirltri.com. (Event Full).

(July 20) Whisky Dick Triathlon, Vantage, WA. Info: www.whiskydick.com.

(August 31) Great Northwest Fall Tour.

nfo: 509-292-5099 or melody_geddes@hotmail.com (September 7) Tour de Coeur 2008, Coeur d’Alene, ID. Info: 1-800-537 7710, Option

3, Ext 295 or http://www.acsidaho.org/ or Cynthia.Rozyla@cancer.org.

(August 2) Whidbey Island Triathlon, Langley, WA. Info: 360-221-5484 or http://

www.swparks.org/ .

(August 2) Rogue Triathlon Hellgate Challenge. Grants Pass, OR. Info: www.

roguemultisport.com.

(September 13) Kootenai River Ride, Bonners Ferry ID. Road cycling. Info:

(August 3) Troika Triathlon and Duathlons. Spokane, WA. Info: (509) 991-

(September 20-21) Tour de Lacs. Spokane to

(August 9) Coeur d’ Alene Triathlon and Duathlon. Coeur d’ Alene, ID. Info: www.

Running

(AUGUST 17) West Plains WUNDERWOMAN TRIATHLON. Spokane, WA. Info: www.emde-

(208) 267-7802 or http://www.ruralnorthwest.com/rotary/bike08.htm.

Coeur d’Alene. Info: www.roundandround. com.

(July 27) Bare Buns Fun Run. Road run-

ning. Info: www.kaniksufamily.com.

(August 15-16) Spokane To Sandpoint Team Relay, Sandpoint, ID. Running relay.

Info: (509) 346-1440 or www.spokanetosandpoint.com.

Marathons (July 6) HSBC Calgary Marathon. Calgary,

Canada. Info: (403) 264-2996 or www.calgarymarathon.com.

(July 13) Missoula Marathon. Missoula,

MT. Info: www.missoulamarathon.org.

(August 9) Crater Lake Rim Runs & Marathon, Crater Lake, OR. Info: www.

0812 or www.spokanetroika@yahoo.com.

cdatriathlon.com.

sports.com.

(August 24) Apple Capital Triathlon: Wenatchee, WA. Info: www.triwenatchee.

net.

(August 30) Umpqua Ultimate Triathlon.

Sutherlin, Oregon. Info: www.roguemultisport.com.

(September 13) Grand Columbian triathlon. Grand Coulee Dam, WA. Info: (360)

325-0715 or www.thegrandcolumbian. com.

Miscellaneous (July 25-26) Ragmar Relay Northwest Passage. Info: www.ragnarrelay.com. //

craterlakerimruns.com.

(September 9) Timberline Trail Marathon, Mt. Hood OR. Info: www.roguemultisport.

com.

(October 4) Leavenworth Oktoberfest

HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO LIST? // Please visit www.outtheremonthly.com and click the “Submit Your Event” link. // Events MUST be sent in by the 20th of the month to be listed in the following month’s issue. Please follow the when, where format as seen in the calendar. Ongoing events need to be re-submitted each month.

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The �ine print: Winners must pick up their bags at the OTM of�ice in downtown Spokane. No purchase necessary. One entry per person. One winner per household. Sweepstakes open only to legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States and the District of Columbia, who are 18 years of age or older. Void wherever prohibited by law. No liability is assumed for lost, late, incomplete, inaccurate, non-delivered or misdirected mail. Winners agree that Out The Monthly/Synderco and Crumpler, their subsidiaries, af�iliates, agents and promotion agencies shall not be liable for injuries or losses of any kind resulting from acceptance of or use of prizes. No substitutions or redemption of cash, or transfer of prize permitted. Any taxes associated with winning any of the prizes detailed below will be paid by the winner. Winners agree to allow sponsors to use their name and pictures for purposes of promotion. Sponsors reserve the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value. All Federal, State and local laws and regulations apply. Selection of winner will be chosen at random at the Out There Monthly of�ice in June , 2008. Winners will be contacted by the information they provided in the contest sign-up �ield and have 7 days to claim their prize before another winner will be picked.

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Send to: OTM Giveaway PO Box 559 Spokane WA 99210 All entries must be received no later than June, 20, 2008

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Out There Monthly

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From Tragedy to Charity Race The Story Behind the Justin C. Haeger Ten-Mile Memorial Run

By jon jonckers

gives people a fighting chance to turn their life around. Daybreak has been successfully treating teens for drug and alcohol abuse for over twenty years and has become an innovative leader in the youth drug and alcohol treatment field.

A 2006 National Survey on Drug Use and Health showed that among all youths aged 12 to 17, 6% had tried prescription drugs for recreational use in the last month. Monitoring The Future data (MTF Study) for 2007 shows that lifetime prevalence rates for amphetamine use without a doctor’s orders were 6.5% for 8th graders, 11.1% for 10th graders, and 11.4% for 12th graders. Adolescence is a difficult and radical time to address chemical use, abuse, and dependency.

Any chemical use by a teenager (especially fre-

Above: Race director ron haeger. // Photo jon jonckers.

You will never find a more unassuming or modest race director than Ron Haeger. Soft spoken yet easy to understand, he focuses on creating a road race that he would enjoy and then hopes people appreciate it. Although it’s difficult to get him to talk about the race at all, that humble nature doesn’t slow him down one bit.

The success of his race defies standard measurements such as turnout or fund raising or longevity. Instead, he pulls together his family and close friends, and they work together to support and promote the Justin C. Haeger Ten-Mile Memorial Run. In doing so, they construct an unshakable foundation for dealing with the massive hole in their lives, as well as build a mechanism to give back to the community in Justin’s name.

Justin Haeger died from a prescription drug overdose (methadone) on Sunday, April 16th of 2006. While other families engaged in Easter egg hunts or celebrated Christ’s resurrection, the Haeger family spent the whole weekend in the Holy Family waiting room while doctors tried to

save Justin. No doubt every journey following the loss of a loved one is difficult, but the recovery following the loss of a child may be the toughest journey of them all. Justin’s death felt like a wrecking ball pummeled the family. Yet, somewhere in the pain, the family agreed to take those devastating feelings and pour them into a cause, something worthy of Justin’s life. Ron Haeger participates in numerous fun runs, plus he has completed over a half dozen marathons, so he proposed a memorial run. Most everyone agreed, so it just kept rolling from there.

Because Daybreak of Spokane has some ties to Justin, the Haeger family elected to support Daybreak (www.daybreakinfo.org). Clearly, there are thousands of noble charities, but the decision to support Daybreak centers on three big reasons.

First, 100% of the money stays in the Northwest.

Second, the need for substance abuse solutions, particularly among adolescents, is spiraling out of control. Third, the payoff is almost immediate.

The funds go directly into a proven system that

The need for substance abuse solutions, particularly among adolescents, is spiraling out of control. quent, self destructive, or prolonged use) creates situations that drastically distort both the legitimate dependencies and the movements toward independence that are so necessary for any young person. Daybreak strains to meet those demands and answer those kinds of questions, and the Haeger family is pleased to bolster those who are making strides in assisting people faced with such

a daunting, seemingly-impossible task.

Once the big decisions were settled, Ron needed to round up some sponsorship. Since Ron works at UPS, he felt comfortable approaching his superiors to see if they might support his race. In the back of his mind, he was hoping they might “sponsor a water station, or something, or maybe grant a few hundred bucks for the posters and T-shirts.”

He never dreamed they would sign over a healthy check, as well as supplement a few dozen volunteer hours for course set up, water stations, timing, and tear down. Ultimately, the buzz for this race at the local UPS distribution centers drew enough attention that Ron was asked to speak about his loss at multiple company meetings. Fired up, he not only spoke about Justin, but also spoke about preventative steps and solutions, which in turn drummed up greater Daybreak support. For Ron, the JCH Memorial Race isn’t about miles. Instead, it’s a platform to create new Haeger family memories, as well as bring awareness to the public about prescription drug abuse.

Last year, the race was strictly 10 miles. However, this year they will be offering a shorter 3.3-mile course. Both routes start and finish at Spokane Falls Community College, but the ten-mile route allows runners to cover many of the best sections of Riverside State Park.

“The course is fantastic,” says avid runner Chris Wells, “It helps to prepare and know where the hills are, but otherwise you can’t beat the scenery on that part of the Centennial Trail, or any race course that follows along the Spokane River for that matter. Parking is simple, the water stations are great, and it all goes to a good cause.”

Naturally, Ron ducks any credit and notoriety.

Instead, he notes you can live your life reacting to problems or reacting to priorities, and that attitude shift makes all the difference. His faith in Jesus Christ, the unfailing strength of his family, and a passion to insure that the loss of his son, along with those facing similar losses, isn’t forgotten, all of these things drive Ron to give back through one of the best fun runs in the community. // This year’s race is Saturday, June 14. Sign ip at: www.jchtenmiler.com

BREWER'S DINNERS! June 8 - Coeur d'Alene Brewing Company Four Courses, Five Beers Reservations Only - 208-662-BREW

June 29 - Steam Plant Grill

Five Courses, Six Beers Reservations Only - 509-777-3900

Both feature Brewery Tours, Guided Tastings and our 100 Year Anniversary Barley Wine.

More information at cdabrewing.com/brewersdinners08.htm 159 S. Lincoln, Downtown (509) 777-3900 steamplantgrill.com 26

Out There Monthly

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JUNE 2008

at 11 a m ts 9:30 a m

Your Adventure Starts Here.

Recreation Kayak Package Package includes: Heritage Featherlite 9.5; NRS Vista PFD; Carlisle Daytripper paddle regular $532.30 SALE $499.00

Full-service shop, rentals, demos, classes and an experienced staff!

This could be

You

Day Trip Package Package includes: Heritage Featherlite 12; NRS Vista PFD; Aqua-Bound Flaire paddle regular $759.00 SALE $699.00

Photo courtesy Current Designs

Day Tour Package Package includes: Necky Manitou 14; NRS Vista PFD; Aqua-Bound Stingray paddle regular $1184.00 SALE $1049.00

Fair: e l d d a P e ine Mil

Upcoming Events Paddle Fair: Sat, June 14

Nine Mile Recreation Area, Riverside State Park; 10 am - 4 pm; Free

Spokane River Canoe Classic: Sun, June 15 Nine Mile Recreation Area, Riverside State Park;

Registration opens 9:00 am; mandatory pre-race meeting 10:45 am; race 11:00 am

Canoe & Kayak Demos at Boulder Beach All summer long; Call 509-325-9000 for dates & times; Free

2002 N Division, Spokane • (509) 325-9000 • mountaingear.com/retail

Store hours: Mon - Fri 9:30 am - 8 pm, Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 am - 5 pm

eN r 60 ut to th ry ove Come o n Area and t aks. tio nd kay at a s e Recrea o o of can right b models you into the et .

We’ll g ng style li d d a p r ee. for you pm. Fr 4 – m 10 a

lassicp:etitive C e o n Ca ers and com t the

a boat elcome or a w Casual ll a f e rs ar n Area io t a paddle e r c e for ile Re er. Rac nd t a w Nine M e h icnic a y on t ck a p fun da a ns p , t r spo . Ribbo h r c o a e n b u f egistra om the R r f . h d c e t d wa war ace rizes a ndatory pre-r and p a .

0 am. M :00 am tion 9:0 0:45; Race 11 g1 meetin

The new 08-09 Go Green Directory is coming this summer.

Call Angie at (509) 869-9438 to reserve space today.

JUNE 2008

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Out There Monthly

27

at 11 a m ts 9:30 a m

Your Adventure Starts Here.

Recreation Kayak Package Package includes: Heritage Featherlite 9.5; NRS Vista PFD; Carlisle Daytripper paddle regular $532.30 SALE $499.00

Full-service shop, rentals, demos, classes and an experienced staff!

This could be

You

Day Trip Package Package includes: Heritage Featherlite 12; NRS Vista PFD; Aqua-Bound Flaire paddle regular $759.00 SALE $699.00

Photo courtesy Current Designs

Day Tour Package Package includes: Necky Manitou 14; NRS Vista PFD; Aqua-Bound Stingray paddle regular $1184.00 SALE $1049.00

Fair: e l d d a P e ine Mil

Upcoming Events Paddle Fair: Sat, June 14

Nine Mile Recreation Area, Riverside State Park; 10 am - 4 pm; Free

Spokane River Canoe Classic: Sun, June 15 Nine Mile Recreation Area, Riverside State Park;

Registration opens 9:00 am; mandatory pre-race meeting 10:45 am; race 11:00 am

Canoe & Kayak Demos at Boulder Beach All summer long; Call 509-325-9000 for dates & times; Free

2002 N Division, Spokane • (509) 325-9000 • mountaingear.com/retail

Store hours: Mon - Fri 9:30 am - 8 pm, Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 am - 5 pm

eN r 60 ut to th ry ove Come o n Area and t aks. tio nd kay at a s e Recrea o o of can right b models you into the et .

We’ll g ng style li d d a p r ee. for you pm. Fr 4 – m 10 a

lassicp:etitive C e o n Ca ers and com t the

a boat elcome or a w Casual ll a f e rs ar n Area io t a paddle e r c e for ile Re er. Rac nd t a w Nine M e h icnic a y on t ck a p fun da a ns p , t r spo . Ribbo h r c o a e n b u f egistra om the R r f . h d c e t d wa war ace rizes a ndatory pre-r and p a .

0 am. M :00 am tion 9:0 0:45; Race 11 g1 meetin