CRR July 2014

CRREADER.COM • July 15 – August 14, 2014 • COMPLIMENTARY Helping you discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region at home and on the road.

LIFE’S A

picnic

OUT•AND•ABOUT PICNIC SPOTS ON THE COLUMBIA Pack a Perfect Picnic The Lowly Potato page 32

COLUMBIA RIVER

dining guide

THE ALLURE OF ASHLAND

BUILD A STEP-BY-STEP CONCRETE PATIO

KIDS’ ART AT HOME

Sale!

WAREHOUSE SUPER

Great Times

50–70% OFF

Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate, Wood & Tile

in the Great Outdoors!

OVER $1,000,000

Let our Experienced Staff help you Gear Up for Adventure!

of inventory

We’re fully stocked with the finest in hunting, fishing, and outdoor equipment to help maximize your enjoyment of the great outdoors.

• Camping • Fishing • Hunting • Archery • Bicycle Sales & Service • Outdoor Cooking, Canning, & Game Processing • Workwear, Boots & Outdoor Apparel

Bob’s

SPORTSMEN’S

Cowlitz County’s Sporting Goods Destination Since 1947!

105 B Street • West Rainier, Oregon

SHOW

Free!

Phone 503-556-0171 • Toll Free 800-886-0171

August 2 & 3

Join us for a weekend event especially for hunting, fishing, & outdoor sports enthusiasts!

Meet The Reps, Product Demos, Giveaways, Sales & Specials & More!

1111 Hudson St. Longview, WA 360-425-3870

Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9 am - 8 pm • Sunday 9 am - 6 pm

Acupuncture Northwest Your premier Acupuncture Clinic is celebrating its

Pain is the body’s sign that something unnatural is occurring. Acupuncture can restore the smooth flow of energy and intervene on a process that may over time create greater dysfunction or disease.

Stop in during the month of July and enter our raffle

for a two

OPEN DAILY 9AM – 5:30 PM SATURDAY 9 AM – 4 PM

www.bobsmerch.com

month Infrared Sauna Package (unlimited visits for 2 months).

Experience matters Patricia A. Kuchar, L.Ac. Trained in China, herbal medicine, sports medicine and pain specialist.

2 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

WA LIC. COLUMR529 LQN, OR: 145 www.Carpetone.com

ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE HERBS TREAT...

MUSCULO-SKELETAL CONDITIONS Muscle pain • Arthritis injuries • Back Pain Neck Pain • Migraines Carpal Tunnel GYNECOLOGICAL & UROGENITAL CONDITIONS : menopause menstrual disorders infertility • PMS

Acupuncture is for EVERYONE

GASTRO-INTESTINAL CONDITIONS ulcers • colitis RESPIRATORY DISORDERS sinusitis • asthma CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS: Hypertension

We are a provider on many insurance plans.

Physician referrals accepted.

AND...Chronic Fatigue Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Eczema • Weight Loss Depression • Addiction

1328 -9th Ave., Longview, WA 98632 acupuncturenorthwestlv.com

(360) 636-0991

W

hen thinking about a suitable image for this m o n t h ’s C R R c o v e r, Luncheon of the Boating Party came to mind. To me, this Renoir painting presents a memorable and beautiful scene, capturing the spirit and enjoyment of friends gathered for a meal on a leisurely summer day. Like a picnic.

I first “discovered” the famous painting when visiting Washington, D.C. about 20 years ago. The original is a large work, measuring about 4 x 6 feet, painted by Pierre-Auguste Renoir in 1880. Since that brief encounter, I hadn’t thought much more about Luncheon of the Boating Party until it occurred to me it might work for this month’s cover. It’s been interesting to take a closer look.

According to the Phillips Collection’s website: Shortly after confirming his purchase of the Luncheon of the Boating Party (in 1923), Duncan Phillips wrote an enthusiastic letter from Paris informing his treasurer of the acquisition: The Phillips Memorial Gallery is to be the possessor of one of the greatest paintings in the world… It will do more good in arousing interest and support

Sue’s Views

The Boating Party and a picnic coincidence

and landscape. In the painting, Renoir has immortalized his friends to such a degree that the image is “not anecdotal but monumental,” Phillips wrote.

the menu, I happened to glance up and dropped my teeth. On the wall four feet away hung a framed print: Luncheon of the Boating Party.

His wife, American impressionistic painter and art collector Marjorie Acker Phillips, was inspired to write: In the light of time it does not matter much who the figures are. They are every man, all people. Based on your interpretation of what might be going on in the painting, which person best represents you?

“Oh, my word!” Teri gasped, when I pointed to the wall and then held up the CRR cover page. After a few seconds, she said, laughing, “I don’t even know what that means!”

Late in the afternoon as CRR’s writers/ proofreaders were finishing their review of this issue’s preliminary pages before going to press, I needed to dash out to Teri Jensen’s “new” restaurant (formerly JT’s) to snap some photos for her ad. One of the writers came along to collaborate on his column’s final touches while we grabbed a bite.

Teri seated us at a corner table, with me facing the wall. I placed the 40-sheet stack of pages, cover on top, on the tabletop alongside me. Opening

for us than all the rest of our collection put together. Such a picture creates a sensation wherever it goes.

Columnists and contributors: Dr. Bob Blackwood Jim & Nancy Chennault Amy Fischer Sara Freeman, PhD Erin Hart Suzanne Martinson Michael Perry Ned Piper Perry Piper Alan Rose Greg Smith Shirley Smith Jane Still Paul Thompson Production Staff: Production Manager/Photographer: Perry E. Piper Accounting/Editorial Assistant: Lois Sturdivant Editorial & Proofreading Assistants Kathleen Packard, Sue Lane, Michael Perry, Marilyn Perry Advertising Representatives Ned Piper, Manager (360-749-2632) Sue Lane (360-261-0658 Columbia River Reader P.O. Box 1643 • Rainier, OR 97048 Website: www.CRReader.com E-mail: publisher@crreader.com Phone: 360-749-1021 Subscriptions $26 per year inside U.S. (plus $2.08 sales tax mailed to Washington addresses).

Jim Chennault works on a new patio. Photo by Nancy Chennault.

Ashland’s Elizabethan stage. Photo courtesy of Oregon Shakespeare Festival Assn.

Cover Design by Columbia River Reader is published monthly, with 13,500 copies distributed free throughout the Lower Columbia region in SW Washington and NW Oregon. Entire contents copyrighted

by Columbia River Reader. No reproduction of any kind is allowed without express written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, not necessarily to the Reader.

CRREADER.COM Access the current issue, Dining Guide and Columbia River Reader Past Issue Archives (from January 2013), under “Features, Selected new articles will be posted monthly in “Articles.”

Have a lovely summer and be ready to seize those serendipitous picnic opportunities — one might even pop up right before your eyes!

Sue Piper

In this Issue

“Luncheon of the Boating Party,” by Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919).

Exhibited at The Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. Mermaid art by Scarlet and Ruby Hart. Photo by Seth Hart.

I don’t know what it means, either.

In 123 issues, nothing quite like this has ever happened. I’m taking it as a good luck sign, both to Teri in her new location, and to Columbia River Reader and its readers.

Columbia River Reader . . . helping you discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region at home and on the road.

According to the website, the masterpiece unites within one image the time-honored compositional traditions of figure painting, still life ON THE COVER

Publisher/Editor: Susan P. Piper

One of Teri’s servers, Larin, also struck by the coincidence, noted that the print had been in storage at JT’s prior to the recent move to more spacious digs. We all simply shook our heads and smiled.

4

Letters to the Editor

7

Book Review ~ Capital in the 21st Century / Bestsellers List

8

Farmers & Community Markets

9

Miss Manners

10

Looking Up ~ Summer Sky Show

11

Biz Buzz

13

Cooking / Farmer’s Daughter: Not your everyday picnics

18

Man in the Kitchen ~ A Picnic: The ultimate movable feast

16

Northwest Gardener ~ How to build a paver patio

19

Out & About ~ Picnic spots on the Columbia

21

Fun with Kids ~ Art at Home

22

Ashland’s Allure

25

Where Do You Read the Reader?

28-29 Outings & Events Calendar / Music Scene 30

Movies: Jersey Boys, Chef

31

Lower Columbia Informer ~ Studies surprise gym zealots

32

Columbia River Dining Guide

34

Pack a Perfect Picnic

36

Seattle’s Newest Museum

38

The Spectator ~ Picnic pleasures, past and present

38

What’s Up Under the Bridge ~ Port of Longview Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 3

Letter to the Editor

Internal Medicine & Preventative Care Open Every Day for Your Convenience Holidays & Weekends Included Neal R.Kirkpatrick, MD, FACP, FACC

Richard A. Kirkpatrick, M.D., FACP

Welcome our newest providers

Dr. Homayoun Saraf Rebecca L. Becker, MD, ABIM

Vlad Bogin, MD, ABIM

Women’s Health/Gynecology David B. Kirkpatrick, MA, MMSc, PA-C

and

Charles Houchin, MCHS, RRT, PA-C

Zach Migel

Bryan Whetton, BA, PA-C

Karen L. Joiner, MSN, ARNP Physician Assistant Internal Medicine

We Accept Most Insurance Plans Elena Olsen, MD

Extended clinic hours:

Mon-Fri, 8am to 8pm Sat, 9am to 1pm Sun, Noon to 4pm

Carol Sayles, MSN, ARNP

360-423-9580 Bev Search, RN, FNP, MA, ARNP

1706 Washington Way, Longview

ON THE CIVIC CENTER

www.kirkpatrickfamilycare.com

Kirkpatrick Foot & Ankle 360-575-9161

Leanne Williams, MSN, ARNP

• American Board of Podiatric Surgery • Diabetic Foot Care • Ingrown Toenails • Heel & Arch Pain Mark Rawson, DPM, Podiatrist

783 Commerce Ave. Suite 120

• Foot Surgery • Fungal Conditions

BOTH BUSINESSES UNDER SAME OWNERSHIP 4 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Counting the ways Why do I love the Columbia River Reader? Let me count the ways: 1. Sue’s Views 2. Local reading 3. Advertising (Yes, even advertising) 4. Book reviews 5. Hook, Line & Sinker 6. Karla C. Dudley 7. Biz Buzz 8. Miss Manners 9. Suzanne Martinson. She writes of her childhood on the farm and it reminds me so much of my grandparents’ farm in Cokato, Minnesota. Her recipes are fun and delicious!

10. Northwest Gardener 11. Man in the Kitchen 12. Out & About. I just took the Max from the Cascade Station and took my two kids skating at Lloyd Center. We loved the experience and ease. This I will do again many, many times.

13. Local events (Outings & Events) 14. Perry Piper’s and Ned Piper’s columns.

Did I include the whole thing? I eagerly look forward to this paper every month!

Keep up the good work!

Joann Clarke Longview, Wash.

The sun in her skillet I have been giving my husband a gift subscription to the CRR for several years now, as he was raised in Longview and enjoys reading news of his old neighborhoods. I read it too, and find lots of interesting articles, the most recent on farm fresh eggs. We had chicken many years ago, and when we had to let them go it was a long time before I could eat store-bought again, but I digress. Here is my story about fresh eggs.

A few weeks ago, my friend Carol McCammon, who lives on acreage in Rochester, Washington, mentioned that she needed some raspberry starts and how expensive they were in the store. I mentioned that ours were running rampant in the back of our small Seattle city lot and she could have all she wanted.

Within a few days, there was Carol at our door. It was wonderful to see her but she brought something cont page 8

Columbia River Reader Print Submission Guidelines

Letters to the Editor (up to 200 words) are welcome. Longer pieces, or excerpts thereof, in response to previously-published articles, may be printed at the discretion of the publisher and subject to editing and space limitations. Items sent to CRR may be considered for publication unless the writer specifies otherwise. We do not publish letters endorsing candidates or promoting only one side of controversial issues. Name and phone number of writer must be included; anonymous submissions will not be considered.

Unsolicited submissions may be considered, provided they are consistent with the publication’s purpose—to help readers “discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region, at home and on the road.” Advance contact with the editor is recommended.

Information of general interest submitted by readers may be used as background or incorporated in future articles.

Outings & Events calendar (free listing): Events must be open to the public. The arts, enter tainment, educational and recreational opportunities and community cultural events will receive listing priority. See submission details, page 29.

Businesses and organizations wis h in g t o p ro m ot e t h e ir particular products or services are invited to purchase advertising.

Home Team Realty Group NEW LISTING! Beautiful four bedroom, two bath dayranch home with over 2400 sq. ft. of living area plus two fireplaces, one with pellet insert. Full length deck partially covered with patio below. Nicely landscaped yard and RV parking. Two car attached garage with storage underneath.

This home is in great condition and turn key ready. Asking $189,000 PRICE REDUCED! Great location for this 1998 three bedroom, two bath manufactured home which includes five additional lots. Large garage/shop with upper level storage, plus a playhouse, new decking on deck and a water feature.

Nice river, mountain and city views, plus easy access to Hwy 30 and Lewis & Clark Bridge. Must see to appreciate.

Now $199,500

360-577-6956

1146 COMMERCE AVE • LONGVIEW www.esteticaspa.com

treats Buy one bag of dogore only st get one FREE! in

New Listing! Four bedrooms, two baths, one-level home with views of river and mountains. This home has a nice open floor plan with attached double car garage on a double lot. Asking $229,900

stomer, Limit one per cu/1 Good thru 8/14 4

Fresh baked dog treats

Rod Murray Principal Broker

Visit our booth at Squirrel Fest!

503-936-5294 Sally Stennick Broker

A non-profit joint venture with 1217 14th Ave • Longview, WA LifeWorks and Educational School District 112 360-636-9732 • farmdogbakery.com

W

OR

KSHOP

Stacy Thomas, Owner Office: 503-556-4888 29373 Washington Way Rainier, OR 97048

S

Furniture, Draperies,Art ,Etc.

360-636-0712

503-396-4729

Call us for all your real estate needs!

www.teaguesinteriors.com • 1267 Commerce Avenue • Longview

Dr. Jeffrey Tack

Dr. Kristi Poe Dr. Terence Tack

Simply. . . the Best.

LONGVIEW 820 Ocean Beach Hwy, #100 • 360-636-2020 WOODLAND 500 Columbia Street, Suite A • 360-225-1010 CATHLAMET 180 3rd Ave • 360-795-3223 Thank you for voting us #1 Eye Care Center in Cowlitz County for the last 5 years.

(The Daily News Reader’s Choice Award) Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 5

FIRST IMPRESSIONS BECOME LASTING IMPRESSIONS

We are proud to announce the addition of Holly Stagg, DDS to our team at Lower Columbia Oral Health.

Dr. Stagg is accepting new patients.

Visit www.lcoh.net or call 360.636.3400 for an appointment.

Most insurances accepted.

Holly Stagg, DDS

MAKE LONGVIEW BEAUTIFUL

Lower Columbia Oral Health Center for Implant Dentistry

&

“Where Dentistry Meets Medicine” 1538 11th Ave. Longview, WA • www.lcoh.net • 360-636-3400

Perfect

for the bride looking for something else

Nominate a Longview business for the

Make your dream a reality with unique style and stone combinations

Mayor’s Award

BEST CURB APPEAL IMPROVEMENT By posting “Before” and “After” photos on Facebook

Everyone! Please Vote by July 31

1 Visit and Like “Make Longview Beautiful” on Facebook 2 Scroll down and click “Posts to Page” 3 “Like” the most improved business The winner, determined by the most “Likes,” will be announced by the Civic Pride Committee

www.mylongview.com

To serve you better, the City has compiled common information residents often request, plus created an easy way for you to communicate with us. Got a question? Just Ask Longview!

6 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

1329 Broadway Ste 208 Longview 360 501 6700

s ’ e i r e l a V V inc.

Diamond Lady Fine Jewelry Studio www.vdiamondlady.com

Cover to Cover

Top 10 Bestsellers PAPERBACK FICTION

PAPERBACK NON-FICTION

HARDCOVER FICTION

1. The Ocean at the End of the Lane Neil Gaiman, Morrow, $14.99 2. The Cuckoo’s Calling Robert Galbraith, J.K. Rowling, Mulholland, $18 3. Gone Girl Gillian Flynn, Broadway, $15 4. The Rosie Project Graeme Simsion, S&S, $15.99 5. Where’d You Go, Bernadette Maria Semple, Back Bay, $14.99 6. The Lowland Jhumpa Lahiri, Vintage, $15.95 7. The Signature of All Things Elizabeth Gilbert, Penguin, $17 8. The Silver Star Jeannette Walls, Scribner, $16 9. Beautiful Ruins Jess Walter, Harper Perennial, $15.99 10. And the Mountains Echoed Khaled Hosseini, Riverhead, $16

1. The Boys in the Boat Daniel James Brown, Penguin, $17 2. Behind the Beautiful Forevers Katherine Boo, Random House, $16 3. Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls David Sedaris, Back Bay, $17 4. Wild Cheryl Strayed, Vintage, $15.95 5. One Summer: America, 1927 Bill Bryson, Anchor, $16.95 6. Quiet Susan Cain, Broadway, $16 7. Tiny Beautiful Things Cheryl Strayed, Vintage, $14.95 8. Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher Timothy Egan, Mariner, $15.95 9. Orange Is the New Black Piper Kerman, Spiegel & Grau, $16 10. Brain on Fire Susannah Cahalan, S&S, $16

1. The Silkworm Robert Galbraith, J.K. Rowling, Mulholland, $28 2. Written in My Own Heart’s Blood Diana Gabaldon, Delacorte, $35 3. The Goldfinch Donna Tartt, Little Brown, $30 4. All the Light We Cannot See Anthony Doerr, Scribner, $27 5. Midnight in Europe Alan Furst, Random House, $27 6. Skin Game Jim Butcher, Roc, $27.95 7. Mr. Mercedes Stephen King, Scribner, $30 8. The Invention of Wings Sue Monk Kidd, Viking, $27.95 9. Top Secret Twenty-One Janet Evanovich, Bantam, $28 10. Delicious!

Ruth Reichl, Random House, $27

HARDCOVER NON-FICTION 1. Everything I Need to Know I Learned From a Little Golden Book Diane Muldrow, Golden Books, $9.99 2. Hard Choices Hillary Rodham Clinton, S&S, $35 3. Capital in the Twenty-First Century Thomas Piketty, Belknap Press, $39.95 4. Astoria Peter Stark, Ecco, $27.99 5. Tibetan Peach Pie Tom Robbins, Ecco, $27.9 6. Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?

Roz Chast, Bloomsbury, $28 7. Think Like a Freak Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner, Morrow, $28.998.

8. Carsick John Waters, FSG, $26, 9. A Fighting Chance Elizabeth Warren, Metropolitan, $28 10. Flash Boys Michael Lewis, Norton, $27.95

Brought to you by Book Sense and Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association, for week ending July 2, 2014, based on reporting from the independent bookstores of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. For the Book Sense store nearest you, visit www.booksense.com

MASS MARKET 1. A Game of Thrones George R.R. Martin, Bantam, $9.99, 2. A Dance With Dragons George R.R. Martin, Bantam, $9.99 3. A Clash of Kings George R.R. Martin, Bantam, $9.99 4. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Maya Angelou, Ballantine, $6.99 5. Outlander Diana Gabaldon, Dell, $9.99 6. A Storm of Swords George R.R. Martin, Bantam, $9.99 7. Inferno Dan Brown, Anchor, $9.99 8. Takedown Twenty Janet Evanovich, Bantam, $8.99 9. The Catcher in the Rye J.D. Salinger, Little Brown, $8.99 10. 2312 Kim Stanley Robinson, Orbit, $10

CHILDREN’S INTEREST 1. The Fault in Our Stars John Green, Speak, $12.99 2. Looking for Alaska John Green, Speak, $9.99 3. Paper Towns John Green, Speak, $9.99 4. Minecraft: Redstone Handbook Scholastic, $7.99 5. Minecraft: Essential Handbook Scholastic, $7.99 6. If I Stay Gayle Forman, Speak, $10.99 7. An Abundance of Katherines John Green, Speak, $9.99 8. Wonder R.J. Palacio, Knopf, $15.99 9. Eleanor & Park Rainbow Rowell, St. Martin’s Griffin, $18.99 10. The Book Thief Markus Zusak, Knopf, $12.99

CLIP AND SAVE for easy reference at your bookstore or when browsing at your local library, bookshop, e-book source or book-loving friend’s shelf.

BOOK REVIEW

By Alan Rose

Capital in the Twenty-First Century

By Thomas Piketty (Translated

by Arthur Goldhammer) The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press $39.95

O

ne of the pleasures of history is the perspective it provides, placing this present moment in the context of what has gone before.

Those who prefer some intellectual heft to their summer beach reading might enjoy Thomas Piketty’s Capital in the Twenty-first Century.

Concerned that the dialogue about the distribution of wealth has been based on “an abundance of prejudice and a paucity of fact,” Piketty, a professor at the Paris School of Economics, brings a historical perspective to the issue.

He begins with Thomas Malthus whose Essay on the Principle of Population reflected the uneasiness of the European aristocracy in the 1790s (the French Revolution had erupted in 1789.) For Malthus, the major threat was overpopulation, leading to mass poverty, leading to political upheaval.

Income inequality is not good for capitalism

In a way we are in the same position at the beginning of the twenty-first century as our forebears were in the early nineteenth century: we are witnessing impressive changes in economies around the world, and it is very difficult to know how extensive they will turn out to be or what the global distribution of wealth, both within and between countries, will look like several decades from now…Their answers were not always satisfactory, but at least they were asking the right questions. There is no fundamental reason why we should believe that growth is automatically balanced. ~from Capital in the Twenty-first Century Both he and David Ricardo, author of “the scarcity principle,” understood capital in terms of land and rents.

Standing on the cusp of the industrial revolution, they could not foresee the vast technological changes coming and the societal implications of those changes.

By 1867, when Karl Marx published the first volume of Capital, both capital and capitalism itself had been re-defined in

terms of manufacturing and the means of production. The mass “misery of the industrial proletariat” was another of its defining characteristics. Eventual revolution was inevitable, predicted Marx.

But by the mid-twentieth century, economists’ “overly developed taste for apocalyptic predictions gave way to a similarly excessive fondness for fairy tales, or at any rate happy endings.”

The leading proponent of these “fairy tales” was U.S. economist Simon Kuznets, who espoused the idea that long term growth would benefit everyone, summed up in the trope: “Growth is a rising tide that lifts all boats.”

Piketty, who has studied income inequality in the United States over the past 20 years, describes how income rose sharply for those at the top of the wealth distribution during the first couple of decades of the twentieth century, then became more equal during the era of post-war prosperity (1945-1975) — the top income tax rate was ninety per cent, the federal government had set minimum wages in many industries, supported trade unions, and invested heavily in the nation’s infrastructure.

Income inequality began to grow again in the 1980s and 90s with the policies of Margaret Thatcher in Britain and

Ronald Reagan in the United States.

The tide continued to rise, but the majority of boats did not rise with it.

By 2012, the top one per cent of American households took 22.5 per cent of the nation’s wealth, making the level of income inequality in the United States “probably higher than in any other society at any time in the past, anywhere in the world.” If these current trends continue, warns Piketty, “the consequences for the long-term dynamics of the wealth distribution are potentially terrifying.” (Revolutions can be so messy.)

To address this growing imbalance, Piketty proposes a global wealth tax, like an annual property tax, that would cont page 8 Alan Rose, author of Tales of Tokyo, The Legacy of Emily Hargraves and The Unforgiven organizes the monthly WordFest gatherings. He can be reached at www.alanrose.com, at www.Facebook.com/Alan.

Rose.Author, and www.Facebook.com/ WordFestNW.

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 7

Community / Farmers’ Markets Astoria Sunday Market Sundays • 10–3 thru Oct 12 Downtown on 12th, just west of Hwy 30, Astoria, Ore. Info: Cindi Mudge, 503-325-1010 Battle Ground Village Outdoor Market Saturdays • 10­–4 thru Sept 27 At Battle Ground Village SE 10th Ave & SE Commerce Ave Battle Ground, Wash. www.bgvillage.com Info: Jennifer Riddle 360-397-0334 Clatskanie Farmers’ Market Saturdays• 10–2 thru Sept.

Cope Park. From Hwy 30, turn north on Nehalem, east on Lillich. Produce, arts/craft vendors, food carts. clatskaniefarmersmarket.wordpress.com Info: Darro Breshears-Routon 971-506-7432 Sonia Reagan 503-728-3509 Columbia-Pacific Farmers’ Market Fridays • 4–7 thru Oct 10 Downtown Long Beach, Wash. www.longbeachwa.gov Info: 360-642-4421 Cowlitz Community Farmers’ Market Tues and Sats • 9–2 thru Oct 7th Ave, Cowlitz Expo Center, Longview, Wash. www.cowlitzfarmersmarket.com Info: John Raupp 360-785-3883 Jrshamrockhill3@aol.com Farmers & Artisan Market Sundays • 10–3 Parking lot on the corner of 15th and Broadway, Longview, Wash.

Info: Betty Erickson 360-957-2515 Goble Community Market 3rd Saturday • 9–2 Thru Sept Additional days may be added Aug & Sept Goble Tavern parking area, Goble, Ore. Info: 503-396-0503 or goblecommunitymarket@gmail.com Items for sale must be handmade or farmraised.

Ilwaco Saturday Market Saturdays • 10–4 thru Sept 27 Port of Ilwaco, Ilwaco, Wash. www.portofilwaco.com Info: Bruce Peterson 503-338-9511

Puget Island Farmers’ Market Fridays • 3–6 59 West Birnie Slough Rd, Cathlamet, Wash.

Info: Rob and Diane 360-849-4145 Check us out on Facebook River People Farmers Market Thursdays • 3–7 Thru Oct 7 Downtown Astoria at 13th and Duane St, Astoria, Ore. www.northcoastfoodweb.org Salmon Creek Market Tuesdays • 11–3 Thru Sept At Legacy Hospital entrance 2211 NE 139th St., Vancouver, Wash www.salmoncreekfarmersmarket.com Info: Ann Foster, 360-574-5093 Thursdays • 3–7 July thru Sept 1315 NE 134th St., Vancouver, Wash.

Behind Biscuits Café Spirit Market Sundays, 12–3pm thru Oct. 26 St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 22nd and Louisiana St., Longview Native, ornamental, and edible plants, jams & jellies, baked goods, honey, eggs, fresh produce, coffee, and more, provided by Watershed Gardens.

St. Helens Open Air Market Thursdays • 2–9 Live music 6–9 at the Amphitheatre St. Helens Plaza, St. Helens, Ore. Info: christina.13nights@gmail.com Scappoose Community Club Farmers Market Saturdays • 9–2 thru Sept 27 E. 2nd Street (street closed during market), Scappoose, Ore. (between City Hall & Library - visible from Hwy 30) wwwscappoosefarmermarket.com Info: Bill Blank 503-543-3469 Woodland Farmers Market Fridays • 4–8 Thru Aug 29 Hoffman Plaza, Woodland, Wash. www.woodlandfarmersmarket.org Info: 360-852-2670 or 360-903-9084

Locally-grown Bedding plants & baskets, blueberries,

green beans, honey, Walla Walla Sweets, Hermiston melons, fruits & vegetables

... also baked goods and crafts!

FARMERS MARKET Vendors welcome - 360-785-3883 OPEN Sat. 9-2 Tues 9-2 May-Oct Jrshamrockhill3@aol.com www.cowlitzfarmersmarkets.com 7th Ave. across from Expo Center Longview

8 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Book Review

Letters to the Editor

apply to all forms of wealth, thereby requiring individuals who have largely managed to avoid paying taxes to now pay their fair share. One senses we’re back in the realm of fairy tales.

that gave me a huge smile: two dozen farm fresh eggs. We had a pleasant afternoon and each of us was sure we had the better bargain.

cont from page 4

cont from page 7

Capital in the Twenty-first Century is one of those occasional books that captures and contributes to a moment in history, summarizing the issues and providing the historical and statistical background to foster intelligent dialogue that could result in policies that benefit all members of our capitalistic society and its commonwealth.

True, not your typical beach read, but you’re going to be terrific in those conversations at the summer barbecues.

••• “And what about accoutrement inequality for cats? Feeding some of us fresh fish or chopped liver while others get stale, dried kibble food is not good for pet/ owner relations.

There could be a revolt!”

~ Smokey

Man in the Kitchen’s Cat

Original • Local Compiled with care All about the good life Fit for any coffee table Good birdcage liner, too

Jo’s

OPEN D A ILY

Country Market

What’s Good in Season Corn, Walla Walla Sweets Homer Bread, Hermiston melons Hanging Flower Baskets w& Longvie Also atria Markets e o v st A gs, abo see listin

Chips & Salsa, too!

503-728-3211

Hwy 30 • Clatskanie

I attend an experimental art school near my home a few mornings a week. My work is in vibrant colors of oil paint on shaped canvas. The paintings are a series of narrow lines or geometric shapes requiring a slow, steady hand. On Sundays, the school is open from 1–5pm, and at the end of that four hour session I am too tired to stand up and cook for long, so I make a dish similar to Frittata.

The dish is easy. I build it up in a straight-sided skillet starting with thinly sliced shallots in olive oil, a bunch of chopped greens, some grated zucchini, a few thinly sliced mushrooms and diced red pepper.

Next, I separate four eggs, whipping the egg whites to soft peaks and stirring in the yolks. I pour this over the vegetables in the pan, put a lid on and let it cook a few minutes, then uncover it and transfer to a hot oven. In about 10–12 minutes it is ready to eat. The first time I made this with Carols’ eggs I was amazed at the transformation that took place in the oven.

One of the vibrant colors I use in my work is a cadmium yellow — a deep, brilliant slightly golden hue. When I saw the fully cooked Frittata, I was staring down into the heart of the sun. In the pan was a deep, brilliant, slightly golden hue of egg flecked with dots of bright red pepper, and the deep green of the grated zucchini. It was almost too beautiful to put a fork to.

But when I did, the lost memory of those long-ago farm fresh eggs warmed me to my toes.

The eggs were gone in two weeks between my husband and me. None of them went into baked goods; they were all cooked whole and eaten with meals.

Thank you, Carol, and thank you, Columbia River Reader, for the eat-it-organic and farm fresh eggs issue!

Rena Langille Seattle, Wash.

Civilized Life

Miss Manners

By Judith Martin

Cell phone protocol, in-home sales parties, fundraising for my kid, assigned dinner seating 1. DEAR MISS MANNERS: What is your opinion of people who answer their cellphones when engaged in a conversation?

I understand there may be exceptions for emergencies, but otherwise it comes across to me as rude and makes me feel like second-best. It also breaks our connection — especially when they can’t remember what we were talking about when they end their cellphone talk.

I find it especially annoying when out on a date. Do you think I’m overreacting? What can I say so the other person might be understanding and cooperative rather than feeling put off?

GENTLE READER: Your goal is not to make your date be understanding,

Visit Rainier!

The friendly waterfront town

but to make her or him understand: Taking non-emergency calls while in company is rude.

Expressing interest in the call only condones the behavior, and even risks a rebuke for eavesdropping. And we know that correcting rudeness in others is itself rude.

Manners instead recommends that you excuse yourself and leave the table, returning only after the call is complete. The timing is important -- and also challenging, as your destination is the bathroom, not the bar. Upon your return, apologize for taking so long, but say that since he or she was on a call, you are sure you will be forgiven.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: It seems like every time I turn around I am getting an invite from a friend to

THRIFT STORE • Adult & Kids’ Clothing • Small Furniture & Appliances • Books & Housewares

Open Wed–Sat • 10–6 303 W. “C” Street • Rainier Proceeds support Rainier’s food pantry.

“Help Our People Eat.” Your tax-deductible donations of gently used items are welcome.

attend an in-home sales party. I personally despise these parties. I think the merchandise is overpriced, the products are not that great, and I cringe when I get the invite from a friend because I feel obligated to attend and buy something.

I put these parties up there with going to the ob/gyn.

I know this is a way for people to earn extra income and that times are tough with the economy, but I keep getting invited to these parties, and frankly, I don’t want to get invited.

Period.

How do I gently and kindly let people know that I appreciate the invite, and I think it’s great they are starting a business of their own and I value their friendship, but I do not want any part of these, and to not include me in the future? I am running out of excuses not to attend, and some people just do not take the hint!

GENTLE READER: No excuses are necessary. Miss Manners assures you that there is no kind and gentle way to tell people that you approve of their choices in general, but do not care to socialize with them.

“I’m so sorry that I’m not going to be able to make it,” is enough. To preserve the friendships, and incidentally to set a counter-example, you might invite them to visit you without having to bring their wallets.

3. DEAR MISS MANNERS: Is it acceptable to solicit cash donations to fund my child’s extracurricular school trip from friends, family and business acquaintances? In the event that someone solicited does not reply, is it reasonable to ask again, or should the silence be interpreted as a “no”?

GENTLE READER: Do you have reason to believe that these people have enough interest in your child’s

LUIGI’S PIZZA

Good times ROLL at the

Historic Come enjoy the DECK at your Friendly Neighborhood Watering Hole!

11 Beers on Tap • Cocktails & Wine OREGON LOTTERY • Shuffleboard • Pool

Alston pub grub

25196 Alston Road • Rainier, OR Open daily at 11AM • 503-556-9753

Goble Tavern LIVE MUSIC

Wed, Sun & some Sats • Open Mic Cold Beer • Micro-Brews • Good Food Video Poker • Keno Scratch-Its • Pool • Darts

503-556-4090

Milepost 41 on Hwy 30

70255 Columbia River Hwy • Rainier, OR

extracurricular activities and sufficient discretionary funds that they would welcome the opportunity to contribute?

Would you gladly do the same for their children?

If you cannot say yes to both questions, Miss Manners advises you to refrain from attempting to embarrass them into complying.

But she gathers that you did not refrain.

Can you at least refrain now from dunning those who did not respond?

Silence does indeed mean “no,” if not “Please go away.”

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I find it extremely annoying to be separated from my spouse at the dinner table at my mother’s house. This seems like an old tradition.

We like to touch and talk and do not talk about the kids, the dog or work, but we feel isolated and controlled when told where to sit. I would never dream of telling a guest where to sit.

Isn’t the job of the hostess to make sure the guest is comfortable? What do you think? She knows we don’t like it but does it on purpose.

GENTLE READER: What about the discomfort you cause those who do not want to watch you and your husband touching each other? And do the others at the table like it when you ignore the opportunity to be with them in favor of someone you see every day?

Of course it is the job of the hostess to tell everyone where to sit, in the interest of promoting general sociability. You have provided Miss Manners with an illustration of why this is necessary.

••• Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Evergreen Pub & Cafe OPEN DAILY 8AM Family Dining Homemade Soups • Salads Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily Specials

Luigi’sPizza Pizza • Calzone Play VIDEO POKER

Best Burgers in the Area

Serving Halibut and Cod Fish & Chips Full Bar

Sandwiches Spaghetti • Lasagna Burgers • Salads Beer, Wine & Sodas

119 First St E • Rainier

503-556-4213

Open 11am daily

115 -117 First St E • Rainier Keno • Video Poker

503-556-9935

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 9

Looking Up JULY/AUGUST NIGHT SKY SHOW

A dependable meteor shower, and more

Natural fireworks are fun to watch

F

orget about the dismal failure, May’s “predicted” meteor shower.

The skies of August always bring the fiery remains of Comet Swift-Tuttle as they plunge into the atmosphere of the Earth. This event is best seen with no optical aid — other than eyeglasses for the nearsighted.

Otherwise all you need is a reclining lawn chair (facing Northeast to East) to lean back and enjoy the show.

The best time to see the Perseid meteor shower is in the early hours of August 11th through the 14th. But they actually begin July 17th and run through August 24th. The numbers of “shooting stars” begin their numerical climb the last half of July and reach a peak of 100 per hour from a very dark sky on the night of the 12th until the early hours of the morning of the 13th.

You can see some in the evening hours before midnight, but the best number come after midnight, as the earth rotates into the stream of cometary

debris. The moon will be a hindrance as the moon is full on the 10th, making the sky awash in the bright reflected light of our companion planetoid.

Saturn still is high in the southwestern sky the rest of July, and will be progressing towards the west through August. If you have a telescope or spotting scope, now is the time to be observing Saturn and its magnificent rings. A small telescope will allow you to definitely see the rings and the moon Titan. A 4-inch diameter scope will bring out three other moons of Saturn — Tethys, Dione, and Rhea — all closer to Saturn than Titan.

Mars is nearby to the west with its reddish glow and will be Saturn’s companion the rest of the summer.

You can count on

Scappoose Business & Tax Service • Income Tax Preparation • Bookkeeping • Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor • Complete Payroll Services • Training & Support

CATERING Be a guest at your next event!

Open all year ~ Call or stop by for FREE consultation SCAPPOOSE 503-543-7195 52698 NE First scapptax1@ados.com OTB00973

Serving the Columbia River region, including Longview-Kelso.

503-366-9099 800-330-9099 201 S. 1st Street St. Helens OR wildcurrantcatering.com

By Greg Smith

ST HELENS 503-397-6993 1510 St. Helens St, Suite A scapptax2@ados.com OTB00031 Regular Hours Regular Hours Mon–Thurs Mon – Thurs9-5 9–5 After-hours After-hours by arrangement arrrangement by scappoosebusinessandtax.com

10 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Late August will bring Mars only 4 degrees (two finger widths held at arm’s length) south of Saturn.

With a small scope or good spotting scope you may even be able to pick out a white blotch on Mars. This will be a polar ice cap. Larger scopes will be able to show dark splotches on Mars, which were once believed to be the famous canals of Mars. Now they are recognized as the highlands and rocky areas of the desert dry Martian landscape.

Binoculars are a great tool for learning the night sky. What else can you use binoculars for other than viewing the moon? How about a pair of star clusters?

Use the W-shaped constellation of Cassiopeia in the northeastern sky.

Follow the left north sloping pair of stars (kind of like a backslash “\”) and follow in that direction about an equal length down and two loose groupings of stars, a bit thicker than the background density of stars, will appear. Now you are looking at stars 7,000 light years away and known as NGC884 and NGC869.

SUMMERTIME...

Make the living easy

We’ll help keep your home sparkling clean & tidy!

• Free estimate • Locally owned - not a franchise • Reliable, meticulous staff • Now accepting LV/Kelso clients

360-578-0789

www.neatermaids.com Licensed • Bonded • Insured

This is real astronomy stuff. Of course, there is the galaxy in the constellation Andromeda, M31, best viewed in mid- to lateAugust. This is the farthest astronomical structure you can see with just your eyes (2 million light years away). It looks like a fuzzy spot in the sky.

That is the center of the galaxy. If you could see it the way photos show it, the galaxy would be six times wider than the moon!

Binoculars won’t show much more but it will be brighter than seeing with just your eyes. Just try to imagine what our folklore would have been if we could actually see more of this galaxy with the naked eye.

Just sweep your binoculars across the sky and see how many interesting things you can see. How about a coat hanger? Yep it’s true. It lies between Altair and Vega near the small constellations of Sagitta and Vulpecula. A star chart for August will show you where these constellations are located. Of course you can see many double stars. Just to the left of Vega is a great pair. Vega is the brightest star right overhead in August. So look for them.

Buy a copy of the August issue of Astronomy or Sky and Telescope magazines and open to the middle, and you will find a star chart showing you where to look for all these objects in the night sky. This is the most affordable way to start learning the night sky.

••• Greg Smith is an active member of Friends of Galileo, a group of amateur astronomers which meets monthly in Longview.

Visitors are welcome and telescope ownership is not required. For information about meetings or special viewing events, call Chuck Ring, 360-636-2294.

Biz Buzz What’s Happening Around the River Biz Buzz notes news in local business and professional circles. As space allows, we will include news of innovations, improvements, new ventures and significant employee milestones of interest to readers.

Please email publisher@crreader.com to share the local buzz.

Real estate agents Christine Schott and Timi Harris have recently joined Windermere Real Estate in Kelso. Schott, whose background is in interior design, also does home staging, organizing and estate sales.

Harris’ background is in telecommunications and she previously taught Christine Schott computer lab at Cascade Middle School.

Timi Harris

Both women are Longview natives and bring the total agents to 27.

Since 2000, Cowlitz AmeriCorps Network members have been addressing critical needs in Cowlitz County in a variety of ways. Members serve full-time for 11 months working to fight illiteracy, help homeless Veterans, support children and adults with developmental disabilities, develop atrisk youth, aid non-English speaking families, and much more.

Applications are now available for the selection of the 2014-15 team.

For those looking for an opportunity to make a big difference in their lives and in the lives of others in the community, Cowlitz Americorps may be the place. Members receive a monthly living allowance and an education award that can be used to attend college. Those 55 or older may transfer their education award to their child, grandchild, or foster child to attend college.

Those with a “servant’s heart” who are ready to dedicate 11 months (beginning September 2, 2014) to serving the community may start the pick up a pre-application packet at the sponsor agency, Life Works, located at 906 New York St., Longview, Wash., from 9am–4pm. Questions may be addressed to Jennie Bergman. program director, Cowlitz AmeriCorps Network, 360-577-5859 ext 2220.

Two join Port of Longview The Port of Longview is pleased to announce the hiring of two new employees. Amy Fischer joined the Port’s public affairs department in April as communications and community relations manager. After more than a decade at The Daily News in Longview, Fischer brings extensive professional journalism experience to her job at the Port.

She has strong ties within the community that Amy Fischer will serve her well in communicating about the Port with local stakeholders. Aside from community relations, she will be responsible for communications efforts aimed at promoting the Port’s marine terminals and fulfilling business development goals. Fischer earned her bachelor’s degree in Humanities at New College of Florida in 1994 and a master’s degree in Mass Communication at The University of Florida in 2002.

“We’re extremely pleased Amy has joined our team,” said Port of Longview Chief Executive Officer Geir Kalhagen. “Her credentials and passion for the community are a great combination for boosting the Port’s outreach efforts.”

Hired in June, Lindsey Scheffler i s t h e P o r t ’s new business development

rates supervisor. A Cowlitz County native, she graduated from Toutle Lake High School in 2007 and earned her bachelor’s degree in business management from Southern Oregon University.

Fibre Federal Credit Union invites the public to the grand opening of its new Rainier branch on Friday, August 8, 3:30 - 6:30pm. Located at 102 SW 5th Street in Rainier, Oregon, the branch is FFCU’s ninth. The festivities will include music, food and prizes.

Visit our new location & drive-thru

FOR RENT BOUTIQUE SPACE ABOVE CRR’s OFFICE

next to ZoJo Coffee on 14th Ave., Longview

Ideal office, salon or studio for hairstylist, writer, artist, consultant, tutor, etc. View of Longview City Hall.

• Good vibes, great light • Energized neighborhood • Central location

Coming Soon 931 Ocean Beach Hwy

~

360.442.4111

• You’ll enjoy working in historic downtown Longview!

Call 360-749-1021

HOT PIZZA FRESH COOL SALAD BAR THE BEST AROUND!

IN ST HELENS 2124 Columbia Blvd.

503-397-3211

Lindsey Scheffler

associate, assisting with day-to-day practical business development and marketing communications support. Scheffler comes to the Port from Totem Ocean Trailer Express, a cargo shipping company, where she was the documentation and

Penny Parvi Agency 803 Vandercook Way Longview, WA 98632 Bus: 360-425-5555

www.pennyparviagency.com Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 11

Rutherglen Mansion Casually elegant dining

NEW HOURS

with a warm ambience

•

• • •

Your headquarters for special group events!

Friday Wine Tasting & Buffet $25, tax & tip incl.

Sunday Brunch Buffet 10–2 Fine Family Dining Special Events, Banquets, Parties, Reunions & Weddings ~ any day of the week!

3rd Annual Castle Rock

BLOOMIN’ TOUR

JULY 24, 25, 26, 27

View stunning landscapes

Wander gorgeous garden pathways

Sunday • 10am – 2pm Fri – Sat • 5pm ‘til . . .

themansion@rutherglenmansion.com 360-425-5816 420 Rutherglen Rd, Longview, WA • Off Ocean Beach Hwy at 38th Ave

Shop for Dahlias • Lavender • Soaps • Honey • Jams Lotions Garden Art • Antiques • Wine • Gifts • Succulents For directions and hours of participants, see page 29

Ladies: Are you over 40 and due for your Well Women’s Exam and Mammogram?

Ladies and Men: Are you 50 or older? You may qualify for a simple non-invasive colon screen.

If you do not qualify for Washington Apple Health and cannot afford to purchase insurance, call to see if you qualify and we’ll set you up for your free exams.

Call us at 800-992-1817, choosing Option 1 or 2.

Or, for interpretation in any language, call 888-202-3301.

El pecho de Washington, cervical y programa de la salud del colon puede ser capaz de proveerle de algunas proyecciones de la salud libres (gratis).

Mujeres: Usted tiene mayor más de 40 años ye falta completar su Mamografia o examen anual?

Mujeres y Hombres: Es usted mayor de 50 años?

Usted podrîa calificar para un chequeo de colon no-invasio.

?

The Breast, Cervical and Colon Health Program may be able to provide you with free health screenings.

Sin seguro de salud? ?

No Health Insurance?

Para los residentes de los Condados de Cowlitz, Wahkiakum y Lewis

?

For Residents of Cowlitz, Wahkiakum & Lewis Counties

Si usted no califica para el programa de Salud Washington Apple y no puede pagar por su seguro médico, llame para ver si califica y le programaremos su examen de forma gratuita.

Llame al 888-992-1817, para español escoja la opción 1 ó 2.

O, para intérprete en cualquier orto idioma, llame al 888202-3301. ¿Necesita seguro médico? ¿Necesita ayuda aplicando?

Llámanos, le podremos ayudar!

Do you need Insurance?

Do you need help applying?

Call us, we can help!

A Program of the Washington State Department of Health 12 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

there was always meat of some sort, roast beef, or Dad’s favorite: pork butt roast. Sometimes, we had Sloppy Joes.

Dessert, naturally. Loaf cake. Fruit pie.

Chocolate chip blond brownies.

COOKING WITH THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER

Not your everyday picnics

Family close to the earth, closer to the table

By Suzanne Martinson

M

y farm family had its own idea of picnics. It’s not just food and drink that make an outdoor meal memorable.

It’s also where, and with whom.

We measured our days in hours, and daily life was sectioned into seasons: planting, fertilizing, cultivating, hoeing, harvesting, and plowing, all to begin again the next year.

Food appeared in a steady stream, at 7am, noon and 6pm, not to mention lavish holidays meals that left our dining room table crowded with food and relatives.

Usually, nothing kept my father from his seat at the kitchen table at noon — when farmers eat dinner. But on this hectic harvest day, he couldn’t stop to eat.

“Here, take this to your dad,” Mom said, handing me a brown paper bag.

“He’s working on the Hildner Place.”

(Midwest farms carry the name of the family that owned them, long after they retired to the Great Farm in the Sky, or Florida.)

On that day, barely 14, I slid behind the wheel of the family Buick and drove the two and a half miles on the gravel road to the navy bean field. I turned into the field, breathing deep as I maneuvered the car between the windrows of dry bean pods. Dad spotted the Buick’s swirl of dust and braked his enormous, green John Deere combine, but left it idling.

A bag of bologna sandwiches and storebought cookies in one hand, I climbed the five steep steps to the harvester’s cab and handed him a Thermos sloshing with iced tea.

mosquitoes that seemed to have “Pie?” he asked, pawing See Suzanne’s issued a Twilight Bite Alert. If through the bag. picnic recipes, the food was particularly good “Just windmill cookies from and we lingered at the table, page 18 the store,” I said. He shrugged we could recall the pleasure his shoulders and reached for every time we scratched. the tea, lifting the Thermos to Horse show cuisine his mouth. No lemon, that was for The Southerners that my husband, city people. Our lemons went into Ace, and I met while working in lemonade. He handed me a cookie, Tennessee spent their Sundays in a childhood favorite. “Here, Lefty,” church followed by dinner “on the he said. As I said, a picnic depends ground,” but my Michigan family on who and where. spent our day of rest at horse shows.

Picnic had buzz Our dinner on the grounds was often In the rigor of preparing three meals a potluck, though Mom’s motto was: a day for more than 50 years, our Take a complete meal. You never mother reveled in an occasional know who’ll bring what. change of venue, so some suppers What a spread Mom packed! Baked moved out to the front lawn. If the beans always, because they came breeze was right, we barely got a whiff fresh right out of the bin. Scalloped of the nearby barnyard, horses and potatoes, usually, because what was cows looking through the fence.

Sunday dinner without potatoes? I We sat in folding plastic lawn chairs, don’t remember fried chicken, but sometimes with a card table for the buffet food. The flimsy paper plates held up to cutting a sirloin steak about as well as a trailer park thwarted a hurricane. But paper plates it was.

We didn’t have a dishwasher.

Mother disagreed. “I have three dish washers,” she said, counting us siblings, 1, 2, 3.

The advantage of dining al fresco on our own lawn was that the ice cream stayed in the freezer until it was time to a-la-mode sweets, such as pie, cake or cobbler.

There was a built-in timeline, too.

Either the start of “Bonanza” on the TV or a quick exit from the cloud of

Forget the fairground’s concession stand. For the ride home, Dad always knew a gas station that hand-dipped ice cream cones. Our Palominos never minded a little pit stop on their way back to the barn.

We hung our show ribbons on the visor in the car — ­ blue for first, red for second, while yellow and white took turns being third and fourth. We rolled the windows down and the ribbons fluttered in the humid breeze. We talked about our day, and the stories always ended the same way. Mother said, “Sometimes you win when you should lose, and sometimes you lose when you should win. It all evens out in the end.”

Picnics are like that, too. Sometimes it rains.

••• Kelso resident Suzanne Martinson, a retired food editor, grew up on a fivegeneration family farm in Michigan.

Asked about her cuisine, she always says, “Midwest farm food.”

Summer Specials Lube, Oil and Filter 0-20 W OIL $ $29.95

26.95

INCLUDES FREE HAND CAR WASH

Synthetic oil vehicles, diesels, 0-20 weight oil vehicles & motor homes may require additional charges.

Hazardous waste and taxes extra. Good thru 8/15/14.

4 Wheel Alignment

Cutting Edge Technology

Serving the community since 1977

Some vehicles may require additional charges.

Hazardous waste and taxes extra. Good thru 8/15/14.

Lane Schrepel Hearing Aid Specialist

950 11th Ave, Longview WA

69.95

Perform 4 wheel alignment / rotate tires / inspect brakes Most cars and lite duty trucks / Modified vehicles extra

Exceptional Hometown Service and Competitive Pricing!

We Accept L & I

$

360.425.0730

1100 Vandercook, Longview • 360-423-3350 WWW.STIRLINGHONDA.COM Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 13

Art—from the classic to the whimsical and everything in between (see examples, next page).

They joined with The Columbian Artists Association and plans were revived for the organization to proudly present the 6th annual “Art in the Park” on Saturday, August 16 from 10am to 5pm, at Hemlock Plaza at beautiful Lake Sacajawea in Longview.

Take an art walk in the Park

I

t almost didn’t happen! After five years of the successful exhibition, it looked like there wouldn’t be a sixth Art in the Park. This was sad news; not only for the artists who show and sell their art, but for visitors and residents of Longview and the surrounding areas.

It takes much effort and a lot of time to get an art show established in a community and Art in the Park was on the brink of being the “must do” art event for the summer. Therefore, after considering what August would be without this fine art show, two local “die-hard” artists decided to step up and take it on.

There will also be children’s art activities and lots of food for everyone in your family. If you are interested in being a part of this juried event, applications can be found at www. columbianartists.org or at The Broadway Gallery, located at 1418 Commerce Ave. Longview.

Now is your chance to see wonderful local artists exhibit their creations: original oils, pastels and watercolor paintings, colorful stained glass, whimsical metal sculpture, ingenious photography, inspired jewelry, decorative pottery and much more.

For more information contact: Mary Fortner at maf@comcast.net or Vicki Brigden at vickiamb@msn.com.

OMG! It’s the 15th of the month!

Where can you find the Reader?

It’s delivered all around the River, but here’s a list of handy, regularly-refilled sidewalk box and rack locations you can visit any time of day (almost), even in your bathrobe ...

Sidewalk Box/Rack Locations LONGVIEW Post Office Bob’s (rack, main check-out) YMCA Fred Meyer (rack, grocery entrance) US Bank Fibre Fed’l CU - Commerce Ave Hometown Bank Monticello Hotel (side entrance) The Masthead Kaiser Permanente St. John Medical Center (rack, Park Lake Café) Cowlitz Black Bears box office LCC Student Center Mini-Mart next to Regents Indie Way Diner KELSO Heritage Bank Visitors’ Center KALAMA Fibre Fed’l CU Columbia Inn WOODLAND Visitor’s Center The Oak Tree CASTLE ROCK Lacie Rha’s Cafe (32 Cowlitz W.) Four Corners General Store Parker’s Restaurant (rack, entry)

RYDERWOOD Community Center RAINIER Post Office Cornerstone Café Rainier Hardware (rack, entry) Just Fish & Chips (on Hwy 30) DEER ISLAND Deer Island Store COLUMBIA CITY Post Office ST HELENS Chamber of Commerce Sunshine Pizza Post Office Wild Currant Olde Towne (near Bemis Printing) Safeway SCAPPOOSE Post Office Road Runner Fred Meyer Fultano’s Ace Hardware ARK Real Estate CATHLAMET Cathlamet Pharmacy CLATSKANIE Post Office Wauna mill (parking area)

For more locations or the pick-up point nearest you, visit crreader. com click “Find the Magazine” under “Features.”

14 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Art in the Park Preview

Jewelry Box by Cyndee Starr mixed media

Home, sweet home.

We help make dreams come true!

Lake Sacajawea photograph by Dennis Stanley Dragonfly by Faron Evans, mixed media

Mon- Fri: 8:30–5:30 www.windermere.com

Kelso/Longview 209 W. Main St, Suite 200 Kelso, WA • 360-636-4663 Cathlamet 102 Main St, Suite 200 Cathlamet, WA • 360-795-0552

doTerra Essential Oils, IPC Pediatrics • Women’s Health NAET/ Allergy Elimination Pain Relief • Anxiety Digestive/IBS • Sciatica Neck / Shoulder Pain Motor Vehicle Accidents Carpal Tunnel • Sinusitis Headaches / Migraines Sports Injuries Chinese Herbal Medicine

REAL ESTATE

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

360-577-8989 Niechelle Guzman, L.Ac. and Nancy Goodwin, L.Ac.

We look forward to handling your next real estate transaction.

Since 1982, Cowlitz County Title has been the trusted company the community turns to when buying, selling or refinancing a property.

Whether you need title, escrow or property search information, come in for our exceptional service. Leave with the secure confidence that your real estate investment is properly insured and protected.

Title Insurance Escrow Service ■ Residential & Commercial ■ 1031 Exchange ■ Locally owned

1717 Olympia Way Suite 104 Park Plaza, Longview Most Insurance Accepted www.sunandmoonacupuncture.com

Our Escrow Team...

Why Our Service is the Difference!

Bianca Lemmons VP/Manager/LPO

Deena Dolbey

Theresa Byrd

Melanie Gwynn

Melinda Gottfryd

Escrow Officer

Escrow Officer

Linda Comley

Escrow Assistant

■ ■

Escrow Assistant

Escrow Asst./Typist

Theresa Campbell

Receptionist/Order Desk

1159 14th Avenue, Longview, WA 98632 ■ Phone: 360.423.5330 ■ Fax: 360.425.5932 ■ www.cowlitztitle.com

Four great manuFacturers In one great locatIon see our web speciALs At coLumbiAAutogroup.com Ford

nissan

hyundai

Home oF tHe 10 year, 100,000 mIle warranty

LincoLn OUr repUtatiOn rides with yOU

Ford LincoLn Hyundai nissan 700 7th Ave., Longview • 360-423-4321

open mondAy - sAturdAy

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 15

Northwest Gardener Step-by-step captions and photos

by Nancy and Jim Chennault

DIY: Put together

1. Choose a flat site large enough to provide ample space for seating and traffic flow. Outline the area with stakes and string. Excavate soil 6-8 inches below your string or below existing edges such as the sidewalks in this photo.

2. When removing the soil keep the surface as flat and smooth as possible. Avoid deep holes that need to be refilled with softer soil.

5. Apply ¼ inch-minus crushed rock (called “fines,” because very fine particles are mixed with it) to a depth of at least 2”. This will compact and create the base for the paver blocks. Smooth with a long board the same thickness as the pavers. Add support boards to the ends as shown. By resting the support boards on the hard surfaces at the same level as the desired top of the pavers and then pulling the long board across the surface of the “fines” your final depth will be exactly the height of the paver.

3. Keep your spirits up when excavation seems endless. Our sign proclaims DAY FIVE!

6. The surface of fines must be compacted and level. Use a water roller or compacter to compress, adding more ‘fines’ to low spots and smoothing down high spots until the finished surface is exactly the height of the paver. Stage your pavers and you are ready to start!

STIHL

Lithium-Ion battery powered products •Trimmer •Blower •Chain Saw •Hedge Trimmer Lithium battery & charger priced and sold separately.

360-425-6720 800-488-3127

FSA85 Trimmer $299.95

COWLITZ RIVER RIGGING - Fully stocked parts & service department 1540 Industrial Way • Longview, WA 98632 Mon-Fri 7am-6pm • Sat 8am-2pm 16 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

4. Spread crushed rock (5/8 to 3/4 inch minus) to a depth of 2” or more. If the area was previously shrub beds with softer soil you will need at least 4”. Smooth, level and compact and install edge restraints to keep your patio from spreading. Our patio required edging on only one side, (along the greenhouse wall), because it was surrounded on three sides by sidewalks.

a paver patio

Northwest Gardener

If you find that summer entertaining is getting a little crowded on your porch, expand your outdoor living space by adding the perfect patio in just a few days.

Start tomorrow and you’ll be done and ready to entertain for Labor Day! This is one of those projects that, if you just “keep your eye on the prize” and take it a day at a time, does not become overwhelming. You really can do it yourself.

7. Beginning on a straight edge, lay the pavers side by side as tightly together as possible. There is no spacing left for ‘joint sand’ or mortar in this patio. Many pattern combinations are available using different paver sizes and colors.

You chose your pattern when you purchased your pavers so be sure to use the design instructions or your own sketches to stay on track.

12. Enjoy your new outdoor living space. As you see, we use ours for plant display. But every now and again we pull up a chair and enjoy the morning sun on our new “patio.”

8. It is important to use support boards to keep the pressure consistent across the surface of the ‘fines’ as you continue to work your way across your future patio. This is an exciting time as you see all your hard work beginning to come together.

11. Thoroughly clean the surface of your new patio and then apply a ‘sealer’ specifically made for concrete pavers. The sealer will protect the patio from moisture and preserve the ‘new look’ through the seasons. Let it dry and apply a second coat.

NOW you are done!

10. Settle the pavers that have been cut to the correct size into place and stand back!

Wow! You did it. It looks great. You are ALMOST done.

Longtime local gardening maven Nancy Chennault and husband Jim Chennault operate The Gardens @ Sandy Bend in Castle Rock.

9. Once the surface is complete, you will need to cut edges of pavers that ‘hang over’ outside of the patio area. Use masonry saw to cut off the excess.

Be sure to smooth the edges for a tight fit.

Same Staff Same Great Food and Ambience NEW Expanded Seating!

formerly JT’s

! e v o em

th d e v urvi 360-577-0717

We s

3225 Ocean Beach Hwy

Come dine with us!

M-F 11–9 • Sat 4:30–9 • Closed Sun

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 17

Northwest Foods COOKING WITH THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER

MAN IN THE KITCHEN

A picnic ~ the ultimate movable feast

Lowly potatoes

By Suzanne Martinson

Three ways, perfect picnic Continued from Suzanne Martinson’s column on family picnics, see page 13.

By Paul Thompson It’s summer concert season and the perfect time for a picnic. Picnics are an avenue to share your blessings, your food, as a communal act. The following is my July 2005 column, recalling a special picnic that’s worth repeating.

Maybe I’ll see you sitting on the grass with your own basket this summer!

W

hen I lived in the Chicago area, a wonderful summer treat was to attend concerts at Ravinia, a park, north of Chicago, with an open-air stage and lots of room to spread a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner. The concerts were nightly. Willie Nelson might be scheduled one evening, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra the next, followed by Tony Bennett; a mixed bag of wonderful artist to suit every taste. Unless I had tickets for Pavilion seating, which I never did, I was content to picnic on the lawn with friends and listen, never seeing the artists unless I wandered past the back of the Pavilion for a quick glimpse. The sound system throughout the park

Checkerboard Potatoes This simple take on traditional baked potatoes is a delicious accompaniment to marinated flank steak off the grill.

Poached salmon with cucumber sauce Guacamole ala Pablo

Free summer concerts

take place at local outdoor venues Lake Sacajawea Park (Longview), Hoffman Plaza (Woodland) and Columbia View Park (St. Helens), pictured below, where similar to Chicago’s Ravinia Park, music lovers are welcome to bring picnics.

See music schedule, page 28.

One-half potato per person 1 /2 Tbl. softened butter per potato 1 /2 tsp dry mustard per potato Wash potatoes, retaining skin. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Cut raw edge of each potato into multiple squares about one-third inch deep, being careful not to cut through. Mix butter and mustard; spread evenly on checkboard potato.

Bake potatoes in a 400º oven, 30 minutes or more. The potato will be slightly browned and easy to cut with a fork. Serve hot.

cont page 33

Stop by and Try Three Wheels

CANYONVIEW CYCLERY Service is our Specialty

360-200-5550

• • • •

Bicycles Sales Service Repair

1051 14th Ave, Suite 120 Longview, Washington facebook.com/canyonviewcyclery • www.canyonviewcyclery.com

Jessica’s Smashed Potatoes New potatoes, 3-4 per person Extra virgin olive oil Seasoning of choice Parmesan, optional Choose among gold, russet or red new potatoes. “New” potatoes, often available at farmers markets, are small potatoes that haven’t reached the size they will attain by autumn.

Boil or bake (400º) unpeeled potatoes, until soft.

Oil the bottom of a drinking glass and use it to smash the potatoes flat about 1/2 to 1/4 inch thick. Top with cont page 33

18 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Avoid picnic ‘flu’

Food poisoning is such an unpleasant thing to mention when talking about picnics. We like to think we were overtaken by the flu, though we wonder if it might be cousin Billy’s sloppy cooking or Aunt Margie’s eating the leftover chicken leg, lukewarm in the sun.

Here are four ways to ways to avoid unpleasantries after your picnic: Simple in concept, not so simple in practice: keep hot things hot, cold things cold. This means when the cooler’s running low on ice, better to drink your beer the Brit way — room temperature — and relegate the ice to the chicken salad and deviled eggs. Food should feel cold or be frozen before adding to the cooler.

The danger zone for food temperatures in Washington is now considered 451º to 135ºF.s — animal products, such as meat, dairy or eggs, and low-acid foods, such as potatoes, are particularly problematic — is 41º–135ºF, according to Audrey Shaver, environmental health specialist for Cowlitz County Health Department. Animal products, such as meat, dairy or eggs, and low-acid foods, such as potatoes, are particularly problematic picnic fare. By the way, mayonnaise has been given a bad rap as a source of food poisoning, but usually it’s the eggs in the potato salad, for example, or the ham in the macaroni that are the problem. In fact, the vinegar, lemon juice and salt in commercial mayonnaise deter bacterial growth.

Wash hands often — with soap and hot water as long as it takes to recite The Pledge of Allegiance. Alternately, use disposable wet hand-wipes or hand sanitizer to clean hands before and after working with food.

A general rule for how long food may sit at room temperature: two hours. But temperature and time are bacteria’s friends.

The warmer the day, the quicker you need to eat. Refrigerate leftovers at 35º–44ºF within two hours. Picnic food left out in

90-degree weather for more than one hour is a bad case of “flu” waiting to happen.

~ Suzanne Martinson

OUT • AND • ABOUT

PICNIC SPOTS ON THE RIVER

Some like it hot… or not!

Story and photos by Michael Perry

W

hen tempera tures nudged the 90-degree mark in June, I started thinking of places to go to cool off.

Now that July is here, with temperatures routinely in the upper 80s, you may be looking for an escape, too.

And the local banks of the Columbia River offer a great selection of getaway and picnic spots.

Sixty years ago, on a hot day, my mom would often have a picnic ready when my dad got home at 5pm. They loaded the three kids in the car and headed to County Line Park, located east of Cathlamet on Ocean Beach Highway (13 miles west of Fred Meyer in Longview). In the 1950s, the park was just a wide spot along the road with a nice sandy beach and shade trees — the perfect place to cool off. Granted, too many kids drowned there over the years after being sucked out into the river when ocean-going

Columbia View Park, St. Helens 50 years, but never took my family there after the county hauled rock in to cover the sandy beach and create a paved parking lot. Although the sandy beach is gone from the “day use” area, the park is still appealing, especially to fishermen. The park and restrooms have been fixed up in the last year and it is still a good place for a picnic. If you want to cont page 20

County Line Park, 10 miles east of Cathlamet Lewis and Clark stopped here After traveling 29 miles on Nov. 6, 1805, the Lewis & Clark Expedition camped just downstream from County Line Park (about where The Villa is located on Little Cape Horn Road). William Clark wrote:

The next night they camped at Pillar Rock and Clark wrote: “Great joy in camp we are in View of the Ocian…”

To: Centralia, Olympia Mt. Rainier Yakima (north, then east) Tacoma/Seattle

Washington

VISITORS CENTERS FREE Maps • Brochures Directions • Information

• Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce Kelso Visitors Center I-5 Exit 39 105 Minor Road, Kelso • 360-577-8058

Castle Rock

• Naselle 101

Chinook

• Grays River

Cathlamet 4

101

WestportPuget Island FERRYk

Astoria

Mount St. Helens

Skamokawa

Warrenton •

Pacific Ocean

Rasmussen Park, Kalama

504

Long Beach

Seaside

I have driven by County Line Park many times over the last

Winlock

Ocean Park •

Columbia River

Wahkiakum County improved the park in the 1960s, and Cowlitz County operated it from 1974 to 2013. Now, one of Wahkiakum County’s two Port Districts has taken over operation.

“Encamped under the hill on Stones. Scercely land Sufficent between the hills and river Clear of the tide for us to lie. Cloudy & rain, all wet and disagreeable.”

Oysterville •

Ilwaco

ships went by with a big wake behind them. But back then there were no better parks along the river. Today, loaner life preservers are available from the park host.

Birkenfeld

Ape Cave •

Longview Kelso

Clatskanie

Cougar •

Kalama

Rainier

Woodland

Oregon

• Wahkiakum Chamber 102 Main St, Cathlamet • 360-795-9996 • Appelo Archives Center 1056 SR 4 Naselle, WA. 360-484-7103.

• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau 3914 Pacific Way (corner Hwy 101/Hwy 103) Long Beach, WA. 360-642-2400 • 800-451-2542 • South Columbia County Chamber Columbia Blvd/Hwy 30, St. Helens, OR • 503-397-0685

Local in

for

Points o mation f In Recre terest Special ation Dinin Events Arts & Eg ~ Lodging ntertain ment

97

• Seaside, OR 989 Broadway 503-738-3097 or 888-306-2326

503

• Astoria-Warrenton Chamber/Ore Welcome Ctr 111 W. Marine Dr., Astoria 503-325-6311 or 800-875-6807

•Yacolt Vernonia

• Woodland Tourist Center I-5 Exit 21 Park & Ride lot, 900 Goerig St., 360-225-9552

St Helens

Goldendale Maryhill Museum

• Ridgefield Vancouver Scappoose

rnelius NW Co ad Pass Ro

To: Salem Silverton Eugene Ashland

Portland

12

Stevenson Bonneville Dam

Hood River Cascade Locks Bridge of the Gods

The Dalles

To: Walla Walla Kennewick, WA Lewiston, ID

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 19

OUT • AND • ABOUT

2014-2015 Auditions:

Laughter on the 23rd Floor

Ages 20s-40s

PG-13

Monday, July 14th 6:30-9:30

The Ministry of Fairy Tale Justice Written and directed by local writer Cody Swires

August 8th -17th 2014

Laughter on the 23rd Floor September 12th – 28th 2014 Stageworks Christmas Party Musical Review December 12th – 28th 2014

The Lion in Winter Tony award winning

February 13th – 30th 2015

Little Women: The Musical

May 1st – May 31st 2015 Stageworks Summer Jr. Production Show names TBD

August

7th

–

16th

2015

Summer Actor Training Program 2015 Dates TBD

FOR MORE INFO: www.stageworksnorthwest.org

HAPPY HOUR

Picnic Spots

cont from page 19

stay overnight, there is a small beach at the west end of the park near the tent camping sites ($20 for RVs, $10 for tents).

The Port of Kalama operates two day use parks that can be reached from either Exit 27 or 30. The park by the world’s tallest totem pole has been there quite awhile, but it has a new playground. There are modern restrooms, covered picnic areas, and a large grassy area for baseball or throwing frisbees. Just south of that park is the new Louis Rasmussen Park, where the old RV park for fishermen was located.

Fishing is still very popular along the halfmile long beach, but it is strictly day use.

This park also has nice restrooms, covered picnic areas, horseshoe pits, tennis courts, basketball hoops, and two beach volleyball courts. There is a mile long paved trail along the river that ends at the Kalama Marina office, ideal for walking, bicycling or riding tricycles. If you forget food, you can walk to downtown Kalama by crossing the railroad tracks on the pedestrian overpass located a quarter mile north of the totem poles.

Another attractive park is located in St. Helens, Oregon, just south of the historic Columbia County Courthouse in Old Towne (turn east off Highway 30 onto

Columbia Blvd and go 1-1/2 miles to reach the park). The park was once part of the river, with buildings built atop pilings. The area was filled in after a couple of major fires, and today the park features a wonderful amphitheater and bandstand.

Just recently, a playground and a water splash pad were added. Unlike some splash parks, this one is ideal for preschoolers. There are several picnic tables under the trees behind the bandstand, and if you come on a Thursday evening, you should plan on staying around for the live music that is part of St. Helens’ 13 Nights on the River (6-9pm through Aug. 28th).

Unfortunately, there is no beach at this park.

••• Lifelong Longview/Kelso resident Mike Perry helped launch CRR in 2004 with his 33-month series, “Dispatch from the Discovery Trail,” during the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commemoration, and still helps his sister keep it afloat.

The Broadway Gallery www.the-broadway-gallery.com

JULY 2014 Featured Artists:

Served all night on Tuesdays!

Bonnie Blake, Jewelry Dennis Blake, Photography Lola Dennis, Landscapes

RESTAURANT & WINE CLUB

The Bistro

$3 Cosmos $3 House Wines 13 shareable happy hour items on the menu

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY Half price bottles of wine Happy Hour food & drink specials served 5–6pm The Bistro can accommodate groups with up to 100 guests.

Email Trina for details: thebistrobuzz.com

Live music Thurs-Fri-Sat

1329 Commerce Ave. Downtown Longview Tues–Sat 5 pm ‘til . . . ?

Make your dinner reservations online at thebistrobuzz.com or call 360.425.2837 20 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Your Local SW Washington Artist Co-op

”Let There Be Light” Watercolor

by Member Dean Wood

”Pillar Rock Cannery” Digital Photograph by Member Judy VanderMaten

”Flowers & Bees” Quilt by Member Peggy Bodle Meet the Artists and enjoy live music and refreshments on the First Thursday of each month 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.

360-577-0544 • 10am - 5:30pm • Mon - Sat 1418 Commerce Longview, WA • Across from Elam’s Home Furnishings

s ’ y r Ma rger Bu hake aet BSurgers & Dogs

urm

& Go

$100 Off

Anything you order!

Limit one per customer Exp 8/14/14

4503 Ocean Beach Highway, Longview • 360-425-1637 M–Th 11am-8pm • Fri 11am-9pm • Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am–6pm

Art at Home

Fun with Kids Story by Erin Hart • Photos by Seth Hart

“Out and About” looks inward

D

uring the long days of summer, not every day can be the “grand tour.” Especially when you have children, it can be a challenge to make the downtime at home as memorable as the planned excursions. What would a summer day look like if I were as intentional about planning some home activities as I am about planning our road trips?

I’ve spent a lot of time taking my children to art museums, but have we spent equal time creating art together?

I started with a couple of ground rules in mind: Our projects had to 1) be something they wouldn’t do at school, 2) sound exciting to the kids, and 3) produce something they wouldn’t normally get to do without my help or supervision. In other words, something that might be too messy or dangerous to do solo… because nothing is as appealing to children as mess or danger.

Ruby and Scarlet Hart enjoy making hands- and feet-on mermaid art.

ON SALE NOW COLUMBIA THEATRE’S

FEMME FATALE: MOVIES. MUSIC. MAYHEM. Saturday, October 18th 7:30 p.m.

9-inch aluminum cake pan and making a detailed circular rainbow pattern that took her nearly an hour to arrange.

Meanwhile, I preheated the gas grill to about 400 degrees.

(You can also use a toaster oven, but I recommend doing this outside. The melted plastic releases all kinds of stinky fumes you don’t want in your house.) Carefully place the pans in the grill and check them about every five minutes. The muffin tin suncatchers took about 8 minutes to melt. The larger cake pan took about 15 to melt to a smooth surface. We let them rest outside on the pavement, and then put them in the freezer so they’d release easily from the pan.

The finished result is a colorful suncatcher that looks like fused glass. We drilled small holes in them with a 1/8” drill bit so they could hang in the apple tree at Grandpa’s house.

We also experimented with cookie cutters.

(Very cute, but VERY hard to release. I don’t recommend it.) The small heart-shaped candy molds worked well, and my daughter was already plotting possible Christmas ornaments or coaster sets to give as gifts.

Pony bead suncatchers Light up the barbecue and pull out the old muffin tins! This has become my eightyear-old’s favorite new craft. I came home from the craft store with a small bucket of brightly-colored, transparent plastic pony beads (purchased with a 50% off coupon) and pulled out a few old muffin and cake pans. The girls and I arranged the beads in a single layer on the bottom of the tins.

Scarlet, my five-year-old, enjoyed creating random patterns in the bottom of the muffin tins. Ruby, was more intentional, choosing a

2014-15 SEASON

Bubble wrap I have a giant roll of white butcher paper in my garage.

It’s probably the best art supply investment possible. A cont page 27

DAN AYKROYD, JUDITH BELUSHI, & MUSIC DIRECTOR PAUL SHAFFER present THE OFFICIAL BLUES BROTHERS REVUE Saturday, Nov. 8th 7:30 p.m.

GOLDEN BOUGH: Christmas in the Celtic Lands Friday, December 12th 7:30 p.m.

JEKYLL & HYDE A Frank Wildhorn & Leslie Bricusse musical. Friday, January 23rd 7:30 p.m.

An Acoustic Evening with COLLIN RAYE Saturday, February 7th 7:30 p.m.

SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS Tuesday, February 10th 7:30 p.m.

RECYCLED PERCUSSION Sunday, March 15th 3:00 p.m.

WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN: A TRIBUTE TO THE CARTER FAMILY Sat., April 18th 7:30 p.m.

HARRY JAMES ORCHESTRA Conducted by Fred Radke Sunday, May 10th 3:00 p.m.

TICKETS $25-$40 www.columbiatheatre.com 360.575.8499 Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 21

3.306 x 8.875 Special Size Col. River Reader, July 15 2014 issue

OUT • AND • ABOUT Oregon Shakespeare Festival 2014

Fine classical productions, robust musical theatre, exciting new works show in Ashland this summer

By Sara Freeman, PhD

O

ne of the plays commissioned by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s American Revolutions project won big for its Broadway run at the Tony Awards in June. All the Way, a historical play about the presidency of Lyndon Baines Johnson by Seattle playwright Robert Schenkkan, won for best new play.

season. The 11 plays on offer through the summer and into early October represent some of the finest classical productions in the country, a robust embrace of musical theatre, and the chance to sample exciting new works.

All the Way premiered at OSF in 2012. This summer has the Ashland-based festival opening its companion piece, The Great Society, on July 27. This is a play not to miss, and it indicates the excitement of what’s going on at OSF this

The Festival cycles through Shakespeare’s canon of 37 plays year by year; this year there’s a tragedy, two comedies, and a romance on tap. Richard III and The Two Gentleman of Verona perform outdoors in the Elizabethan-style theatre. The Tempest inhabits the large indoor Bowmer theatre, while The Comedy of Errors performs in the Thomas Theatre (formerly the New Theatre), a flexible blackbox space where the festival’s most intimate and experimental stagings take place.

Inspired by Shakespeare’s canon, OSF’s American Revolutions project aims to commission 37 plays to create an American history cycle of as much richness and weight as the 500-year-old work of Shakespeare. The fruits of this initiative come not only in the plays directly commissioned by the project,

360-673-4561 • www.cityofkalama/events 22 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

The Elizabethan Theatre in Ashland.

Photo courtesy of Oregon Shakespeare Festival Association.

but in the uptick of new work presented at the festival in general, like Water by the Spoonful, a Pulitzer Prize winner by playwright Quiara Allegria Hudes.

Precise sampling In late May I traveled to Ashland with a group of my students and we saw three of the plays that opened early in the season. With only these few plays, we saw a precise sampling of the festival’s interests.

The mix of new and old, lighthearted and bold filled us with debate and wonder. We started our visit with Lorraine Hansberry’s The Sign in Sydney Brustein’s Window. This myriadminded, huge-scale play was the last of Hansbery’s shows produced before her untimely death. Hansberry’s most famous work, A Raisin in the Sun, is back on Broadway at the moment in a production featuring Denzel Washington. Unlike Raisin, Sydney Brustein doesn’t focus on an African-American family, though Hansberry’s perspective as a black woman proves incisive.

Instead, the play gets at all the intersections of identity —race, gender, politics, class, sexuality, religion— through its setting in the activist Greenwich Village of New York City in1964. It weaves a compelling story about a young marriage, a set of three sisters, two political activists, and the quest to live an ethical life and better the world. cont page 23

cont from page 22

This production both recovers a rarely-produced piece of classic American drama and essentially presents a new work—Hansberry left the script unfinished and variant versions of the script exist in her records. Director Juliette Carrillo and dramaturg Lue Douthit collated and edited the materials with great insight.

Seeing this show is like jumping into a conversation that’s been ongoing since the baby boom generation launched itself into adulthood, while at the same time engaging a new perspective on our country and our personal lives, like the ones presented in other new works at OSF. Theatre at its best Sydney Brustein evoked 1960s-era nostalgia for some of the audience there the night I saw it, but it also pushed all of us. My just-graduated college students felt particularly provoked by it: The issues under debate stirred them up and the aesthetic choices of the production excited a lot of debate.

I think this type of provocation (or invitation to more conversation) is exactly what theatre should do at its best, so it was truly satisfying to still be arguing about the play as we drove home three days later.

We also saw a reconstruction of the Marx Brothers’ musical The Cocoanuts and the Butohinspired staging of Shakespeare’s second-to-last play, The Tempest, during our trip. Not a Marx cont page 27

JULY 25, 26, 27 • 2014 FINNISH AMERICAN FOLK FESTIVAL NASELLE, WASHINGTON USA EXHIBITS ~ LECTURES ~ MUSIC ~ DANCE ~ FOOD WORSHIP & CLOSING CEREMONIES ON SUNDAY

NOW

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 23

LONGVIEW-KELSO’S BEST CHOICE NOW FOR TODAY’S COUNTRY MUSIC HITS LISTEN EACH WEEKDAY 6AM-10AM “LIVE” to Jim Hawk “HAWK in the MORNING”

www.kbamcountry.com

Let Kent keep you rollin’!

Fair rates • Honest work

KENT’S CUSTOM DIESEL, INC FOR ALL YOUR DIESEL REPAIRS BIG RIGS, MOTORHOMES, PICKUPS TRAILER REPAIR ALL WELDING & FABRICATION 2405 TALLEY WAY • KELSO, WA

Ph: 360-575-8884 FAX: 360-575-9835

WE

360-577-7200 24 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

E!

ROPAN

ELL P ALSO S

Where do you read

THE READER? In Yakima

Left to right: Wanda McBee, Janice Kuzemko, Anita Webster Morgan, Cynthia Washington and Adrienne Galvez, Kelso Eagles 1555 Auxiliary members at their state convention in Yakima. Our apologies to Adrienne; the photo’s digital file contained a distortion we could not correct.

Hail to the Chief Siblings Al Gillespie (former

Longview resident) and Karen Roggenkamp (Longview resident) reading the Reader in Washington, D.C., outside of the White House. They visited just in time for the cherry blossoms and beautiful weather.

WHERE DO YOU READ THE READER? Send a photo showing where YOU read the Reader (high-resolution JPEG to Publisher@ CRReader.com).

Note: If sending a cell phone photo, choose the largest file size up to 2 MB.

Rocking out on the Fourth! Sharon Harmon of Longview with

granddaughters Bess and Abigail Aronoff in front of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, on July 4, 2014.

Include name and city of residence.

Thank you for your participation and patience. Keep those photos coming!

Hooked on phonics? Only 36 hours old and Finnegan (born June 23 at Legacy Salmon Creek in Vancouver) is already enjoying the CRR with mommy, Allison Mooney, of Kelso Washington.

May Exhibit Specializing in one-of-a-kind fashions and jewelry

Exhibits

Sidewalk Sale 5

July 26 • 10– ns by

July ~ Cookie King, jewelry August ~ Ms. Marie, jewelry & cards; Heather E. Phillips, hair accessories.

1206 Broadway, Longview Between Commerce & 12th Ave. Open Tues-Thurs 11–5 • Fri 12–6

Demonstratio

Loom weaving Jean Watson beading Knitting and/or Billie Bevers Bead spinner Gary Bevers llips Batik Heather E. Phi

www.mcthreadswearableart.com

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 25

Passion...

Perfection...

Perserverance Capstone Cellars ~ Still going strong Still doing tastings by appointment New wines coming soon 2011 Banere 2012 10th Anniversary Blend All our wines are still available in local restaurants and retail outlets

E FIBR

T C A F# Whether it’s a beach getaway, a backyard pool, or a new patio you’re hot for this summer, Fibre Federal is your summer loan headquarters, with rates as low as 4.99% APR* We’ll even waive your payment for 60 days!

4.99 5.99 6.99 7.99

% APR*

12 months

% APR*

24 months

% APR*

48 months

% APR*

60 months *Annual Percentage Rate as of 6/1/14 and subject to change.

360.423.8750 • 800.205.7872 www.fibrecu.com 4305-A Pacific Way Longview, Washington By appointment • 360-749-1034

YOUR COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

26 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Banking made easy

Kids’ Art

Ashland

cont from page 21

brothers aficionado myself, I enjoyed the musical far more than I expected.

The show had much of the audience in tears with its improvisational glee and quasi-surrealist sense of play.

giant piece of white paper is always satisfying – but add a food coloring based mess to it, and it’s irresistible to kids.

For this project, I picked up a cheap six-pack of liquid bubbles and raided my food coloring collection, adding a small amount of various colors to the bubble bottles. We unrolled a large piece of paper out in the driveway (food coloring WILL stain, so DO NOT do this in the house – and make sure the kids aren’t wearing their good clothes). Simply blow the bubbles so they POP against the white surface, leaving artful trails of bubble-bursting.

Jackson Pollock will be jealous of your results. When dry, roll it up and save it to wrap your next birthday present.

Mermaid Art My grandmother was an avid oil painter, and I remember with joy the first time she let me paint on canvas with “big-person” paints. There are few things as satisfying as the feeling of rich-pigmented paint at the end of a brush when you’re accustomed to tempera and kid-level watercolor. I wanted to find a project that would give my girls that same sense of satisfaction.

It tickles! Seth Hart helps Ruby wash paint off her feet. Photo by Erin Hart.

I picked up a discount canvas and had a set of artist-level acrylic paints (which may stain skin, so work quickly on this one). I had once seen a picture of a mermaid created from hand, foot and fingerprints, so we sat down to pick the girls’ favorite colors and build our mermaids. See directions, below.

The end result (shown on cover) looks great on my kitchen wall, but will also serve to remind me how fleeting this whole childhood business is. Their handprints already look impossibly small.

FREE

One-week Membership Lifting women to a healthy lifestyle.

Guide for making your own mermaid art

Lite Weights for Women

Get your art supplies at the local Michael’s or JoAnn’s stores. You can take advantage of their great coupon deals when you sign up online.

Mary Simonson, owner

Erin Hart lives in Longview and is the development director for Three Rivers Christian School. She is also the younger sister of fellow CRR writer Kari Rushmer, who turns 40 this year. (Much, much younger, Erin notes.)

Like us on Facebook!

Mon-Fri 6am–8pm • Sat 9am–Noon

1150 Vandercook Way Longview, WA

360-577-8950

cont from page 23

•••

The brilliance of Mark Bedard as Groucho (he first played the role in OSF’s version of Animal Crackers) cannot be fully described: it’s worth seeing this play for him alone. I think of this material as a palate-cleanser, but I take seriously OSF’s recent commitment to musical theatre, including the recovery of popular shows from the 1920s like this. I expect that their production of Sondheim’s fractured fairy tale Into the Woods, which opened at the start of June, will be a highlight of the season.

The Tempest confirmed OSF’s greatness with Shakespearean language and with simple, revealing approaches to staging.

This production worked with the aesthetic vocabulary of Japanese Butoh dance, blending it with 18th Century European costumes for a distinctive production design dominated by intense hues and bold movement choices.

Themes brought to life Butoh is an avant-garde form developed after World War II that in part reacts to the desolation created by the atomic bomb. Because The Tempest features a supernatural island commanded by Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, the blend of styles results in an otherworldly aspect suited to the primal forces at play. Caliban, the island’s “monster,” moves like a contortionist and is thickly caked in ochre body paint while Ariel, the island’s sprite, transforms, tumbles, and flies on the ramped set with the help of Butoh ghosts. I’ve always loved the themes of The Tempest — metamorphosis, self-determination, forgiveness— and this production brought them to life beautifully.

Top picks for the remaining season If I were to get to return to OSF this season, my top picks to see next would be Richard III for the fights and rhetoric on the outdoor stage, The Great Society to see what all the fuss is about, and Water by the Spoonful for the sheer emotional impact.

Hudes’s play (Water by the Spoonful) tells a contemporary story of broken bonds between parents and children, drug addiction, and new connections forged across the Internet and within our own families that may heal us. I assign this play in class with regularity and would love to see this production. If I were hungry for comedy, I’d pick the Comedy of Errors because it is in the smallest

If you go to Ashland Repertory theatre The Festival has shows running from mid February through November 2, but several shows just opened in June and some close in July, August, or October. Shows run in repertory, which means it is possible to see as many as four or five different shows in a three or four day trip, more if you stay longer. Even a two-day trip can accommodate seeing three shows. Consult OSF’s website for the rotation, schedule, and tickets: www. osfashland.org.

Overnight accomodations Ashland’s many lodging options book up fast. Many charming bed and breakfasts are within walking distance of the festival; there’s also the historic Ashland Springs Hotel.

A nice Best Western is out closer to I-5, and it still only takes 10 minutes to drive in to the festival site. There is street parking and a low-cost lot to the side of the main festival buildings.

Gifts and souvenirs Boutique shopping abounds in Ashland: Paddington Station has wonderful gifts; there are also shops with vintage clothes, and one of my students scored some first editions at a used book dealer.

Favorite eateries Ashland has a big range of restaurants at every price and taste level. I am partial to Pasta Piatti for a nice meal, and love Morning Glory for breakfast and brunch. My students are tickled

by Puck’s Doughnuts (named for a character in Midsummer Night’s Dream), which is right next to the All’s Well (that ends well) Herb and Vitamin Shop. It’s often nice to grab supplies at the grocery store and have a picnic in Lithia Park. Along with picnicking, be sure to check out the Green Show in the afternoons and early evenings on the brick plaza outside the Elizabethan theatre. theatre and I love seeing great physical comedy up close. Meanwhile, I look forward to reports on the new musical OSF is premiering, Family Album, which is an experiment in storytelling form and the combination of language and melody. Our trip in May was so powerful, my students want to go back in September. We’ll have to see what we can do.

••• Longview native Sara Freeman teaches drama at University of Puget Sound in Tacoma.

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 27

Outings & Events

Performing & Fine Arts Music, Art, Theatre, Literary

Stageworks NW presents our SUMMER MELODRAMA

July 11-27

“Chaos at the Cannery” A family-friendly melodrama

Come boo, hiss and throw popcorn at the villain!

Fri & Sat 7:30pm • Sun 2pm For tickets and more info, visit stageworksnorthwest.org

1433 Commerce Ave, Longview

Live Music Scene around the River For music schedule, go online or call the restaurant or bar

The Bistro 1329 Commerce Ave, Longview 360-425-2837 • Music Thurs 6–9; Fridays 6–10, Sats 6–9 thebistrobuzz.com The Birk Pub & Eatery 11139 Hwy 202, Birkenfeld, Ore 503-755-2722 • thebirk.com Cassava 1333 Broadway, Longview 360-425-7700 Live music first Friday. Check Facebook.

Flowers ‘n’ Fluff 45 E. Col River Hwy, Clatskanie, Ore. 503-728-4222 Live Music Friday evenings clatskanieflowersnfluff@gmail.com

FIRST THURSDAY Downtown Longview AUGUST 7 Broadway Gallery Artists reception, 5:30-7:30 pm.

Music by Dave Mongeau 1418 Commerce Ave. www.the-broadway-gallery.com

Porky’s Public House 561 Industrial Way, Longview 360-636-1616 facebook.com/pages/Porkys-CafeLounge/11041404898298

To find where your favorites are playing: Raeann raeannphillips.com phillipspettitr@facebook.com

Broderick Gallery Artists reception 5–8 pm 1416 Commerce Ave. 503-703-5188 www.broderickgallery.com Longview Outdoor Gallery 1200-1300 blocks, Commerce Ave. Free lighted, guided sculpture tour

by LOG board member, 6pm. Meet at Broadway Gallery.

McThread’s Wearable Art / Lord & McCord ArtWorks Artist’s Reception 5:30–7:30pm.

1204/1206 Broadway 360-261-2373 mcthreadswearableart.com Teague’s Interiors Art Gallery 1267 Commerce Ave. 360-636-0712 Chalk paint demonstration 5:30-7pm

FredCarterLive@facebook.com or www.fredcarterlive.com

To list your music venue here, call Ned Piper, 360-749-2632

LCC Gallery at the Rose Center Exhibit

by Li Tie, through Aug 30. Gallery hours: Mon-Tues 10am-6pm, Wed-Fri 10am4pm. Lower Columbia College, 15th & Washington Way, Longview, Wash.

360-442-2510.

McThreads Wearable Art Through July 31: Cookie King (jewelry). July 21 Sidewalk Sale, 10–5 with demonstrations.

August: Ms. Marie (jewelry, handmade cards), Heather E. Phillips (fascinator hats). Artist’s Reception. Aug. 7, 5:30– 7:30pm. OpenTues-Thurs 11-5, Fri 126pm. 1206 Broadway, Longview, Wash.

360-261-2373.

Teague’s Inter iors Chalk Paint 201 Workshops. Call for info. 1267 Commerce Ave, Longview, Wash. Info: 360-636-0712.

Tsuga Gallery Fine arts and crafts by more than 30 area artists. Thurs-Sun 11–5. 70 Main Street, Cathlamet, Wash.

360-795-0725.

Lord & McCord Art Works Works by Jan Dalen, Gary Bevers, Ken Knodell, Michael Metz, Linda McCord. Artists’ reception Aug 7, 5:30-7:30pm. Open Tues–Thurs 11–5, Fri noon–6. 1204 Broadway, Longview, Wash. 360-2612373.

Music in the Gardens featuring 10 gardens on Long Beach Peninsula.

Sat, July 19, 10am–4pm. Live music, food, beverages. Proceeds will benefit the Water Music Festival. Tickets $15. purchase online at musicinthegardens. brownpapertickets.com Info: visit Music in the Gardens Tour Facebook page or call Nancy Allen, 360-261-1598.

Pirates of Penzance July 18-19, 7pm. Shoestring Community Players at Scappoose High School. Info: sscpmusicals.com.

Chaos at the Cannery melodrama presented by Stageworks Northwest.

Through July 27. All tickets $12, purchase online stageworksnorthwest.org or call 360-636-4488. 1433 Commerce Ave., Longview, Wash.

Art in the Park Sat, Aug 16, 10–5.

Hemlock Plaza, Lake Sacajawea Park, Longview, Wash. Fine handcrafted art in its many forms: paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, fused glass, etc. Artist spaces still available. Info: Mary Fortner 360-274-5844 or email maf43@comcast. net. Vendor and artist application at www.columbianartists.org or Broadway Gallery, 1418 Commerce, Longview.

Call to Artists: Miniature Art Show & Contest The Broadway Gallery is sponsoring a community-wide art event in September. The art can be made of any medium, but must follow Guidelines for Miniature Art, available at The Broadway Gallery, 1418 Commerce Avenue, Longview or by calling 360577-0544. Everyone age 6 and above is encouraged to create a piece of work for this event!

FREE OUTDOOR CONCERTS 13 Nights on the River

Concerts at the Lake

Hot Summer Nights on the Plaza • Woodland, Wash.

July 17 Jeff Trappe Flamencan Troupe Conjuncto Alegre Band July 24 Patrick Lamb July 31 Hit Machine Aug 7 Set in Stone Aug 14 Michael Allen Harrison Aug 21 Sweetwater Aug 28 Cooper and the Jam

July 17 Shake It Up Cars tribute/70s-80s Rock July 24 Elliot Randall & the Deadmen

July 18 Mojo Blasters Blues July 25 Stifler Contemporary, high energy rock

July 31 The Twangshifters

Original singer songwriter / Rock ‘n’ Roll

Aug 1 Silver Rose Country rock Aug 9 Pull for Fire Guitars, vocals, drums

Aug 14 Ants in the Kitchen

Aug 15 Half Step Down Blues

St. Helens, Ore.

Avi avimuzo.com avimuzo@facebook.com Fred Carter

Broderick Gallery Fine contemporary art from England, Cuba and South America, along with George Broderick’s and other artists’ paintings. Tues-Sat, 10am–5pm or by appointment. 1416 Commerce, Longview, Wash. Info: 503703-5188. www.broderickgallery.com Koth Galler y August: Rosemary Scandale, Civil War costumes, uniforms and memorabilia. Mon, Tues, Thurs 10-8, Wed 10-5, Fri 10-6, Sat 12-5.

Longview Public Library, 1600 Louisiana, Longview, Wash. 360-442-5300.

Goble Tavern 70255 Col. River Hwy, Rainier 503-556-4090 • gobletavern.com The Mansion 420 Rutherglen Rd, Longview 360-425-5816. rutherglenmansion.com Fri 5-7 pm Winetasting Buffet $25

Broadway Galler y Artists co-op July: Dennis Blake (photography), Bonnie Blake (jewelry), Lola Dennis (landscapes). August: Mike Patnode (photography), Kit Melton (Indian aft), Denise Simpson (oil paintings), Gini Smith (paintings). Mon-Sat 105:30. Artist reception July 10, 5:307:30pm. Music by John Crocker. 1418 Commerce, Longview, Wash. 360-5770544.

Longview, Wash.

Americana / Country

Rockabilly / Blues / Rock ‘n’ Roll

Aug 7 Daniel Kirkpatrick & the Bayonets

Blues /Soul / Rock ‘n’ Roll

6–9pm Thursdays, St. Helens Columbia View Park, Olde Town, St. Helens, Ore. Info: 13nightsontheriver.org

28 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

6–8pm Thursdays, Martin’s Dock, Lake Sacajawea Park, Longview, Wash.

Bring blankets, low-backed chairs.

Picnics OK, food available. No alcohol.

Info 360-442-5400.

7–9pm Fridays, Hoffman Plaza, downtown Woodland, Washington.

Bring lawn chairs. Alcohol-free. Info: revitalizewoodland.org

Outings & Events

Recreation, Outdoors, Gardening History, Pets, Self-Help Cowlitz County Museum Visit our cabin at Cowlitz County Fair July 24-27. In the museum: special exhibit “Badges, Bandits and Booze,” a history of Law Enforcement in Cowlitz County. Open Tues-Sat from 10 am-4 pm. 405 Allen St, Kelso, Wash. www.cowlitzwa.us/museum.

River Life Interpretive Center in Redmen Hall. ‘The Legacy of the Columbia River Fisheries’ through Aug 10. Open noon-4pm, Thurs-Sun. 1394 West SR4, Skamokawa, Wash. For info call 360-795-3007.

Wahkiakum County Historical Society Museum Extensive logging, fishing and cultural displays. Open 1-4pm, ThursSun. 65 River Street, Cathlamet, Wash.

For info 360-795-3954.

Summer Reading Programs at Longview Public Library and all public libraries in Cowlitz County “Fizz, Boom, READ” for youths to 12 years of age and “Spark a Reaction” for students entering 6th12th grades. All events and the “Read For Fun and Prizes” program are open to all area youth from any location, no library card needed. Starts when school is out.

Register in lower floor lobby, Mon-Wed 10am-8pm, Thurs-Fri 10am-5pm. 1600 Louisiana Street, Longview, Wash. For more info call 360-442-5301 or online at www.longviewlibray.org.

R Square D Square Dance Club Summer schedule: 2nd and 4th Wednesday, 7pm for plus, 7:30pm for mainstream with rounds. Kelso Senior Center, 106 NW 8th Ave, Kelso, Wash. $5 per person.

More info: Annie Tietze, 503-750-5301.

Tech 101: Love your devices! Free beginner level class on Mac and Android smart phones, tablets, etc. Fri., July 25, 10-11:30am, Longview. Limited space.

Pre-registration required. Presented by Perry Piper. Info/registration: 360-2700608.

Community Potluck Picnic in the Park Sat, July 20, 11am-5pm. Grays River Valley Community Center in the Old Rosburg School. Hot dogs, hamburgers, games. Bring your favorite dish to compliment. Donations support activities at the Center. State Route 4, Rosburg, Wash. For info call Kimi at 360-465-2331.

Cowlitz County Fair July 24-27.

Grandstand: Love and Theft, July 24 at 7pm. Thunder Mountain Rodeo, Fri, July 25, 7pm, Sat, July 26, 1pm and 7pm.

Monster Trucks, July 27, 1pm, $10 presale at Bob’s Sporting Goods, $15 at the gate. Carnival, vendors, exhibitors. Free entry to the fairgrounds. 1900-7th Ave, Longview, Wash. Info: cowlitzcountyfair. com Maritime Heritage Festival July 25–27, 10am–4pm, historic Columbia View Park, City Docks, Olde Town St. Helens Free, family-friendly event with maritime demonstrations, boat building, antique and classic boat display rides and tours, WWII vessels PT 658, LCI 713, art show, music, water-skiing show and steampowered sternwheeler. Info: cfinks@ finksinc.com or 503-998-0231.

Country Breakfast with all the trimmings.

Sun, July 28, 8–11am. Grays River Valley Community Center in the old Rosburg School on State Route 4 (Ocean Beach Hwy). Menu includes pancakes, sausage, cheesy eggs, coffee, tea, & milk. Bring the whole family. $5 donation supports activities at the Center. Info: Kimi or Dian,360-465-2310.

Squirrel Fest 2014 Aug 16, 9am10:30pm.

Craft and food vendors, parade at 10am, stage shows, music, beer and wine garden ($2), fireworks at 10:30pm from top of Monticello Hotel. The Civic

Circle, Broadway and Washington Way, Longview, Wash. Info: lvsquirrelfest.com or call 360-430-0273.

Wings & Wheels 10–5pm, Aug. 23.

Scappoose Industrial Airpark, 34020 Skyway Drive, Scappoose, Oregon. $5 Admission $ 20 cap for families (2 adults and 4 children max). Airplane rides, cruise-in for motorcycles, trucks, military.

Classic cars, antique aircraft, model train exhibit. Food, artisan booths. No pets, please (except service animals).

Ride & Rock Aug 23. Scenic poker run to Mt St. Helens, followed by 5 Live Benefit concert featuring Raeann Phillips at Bethany Vineyards. Concert & BBQ dinner $25. Benefits Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Info: curideandrock. org, facebook.com/curideandrock.

Wooden Boat Festival Aug 30-31, Elochoman Marina, Cathlamet, Wash.

Exhibits, parades, racing, rubber duck races, salmon derby, chili/chowder cookoff. New microbrewery (Drop Anchor) located at the Marina. Registration open for boats, vendors and campers. Info: Elochoman Marina, 360-795-3501 or jleaportdist1@centurytel.net.

We’re Fundraising with

List your non-commercial community event’s basic info (name of event, sponsor, date & time, location, brief description and contact info) and email to: publisher@crreader.com

#1 Castle Rock Lavender 865 PH 10, Castle Rock Open Mon thru Sat. 10 to 6 Exit 49 or 48….head west on “A” Street - Stay straight onto PH 10 - 2 miles to 865 Facebook or www.castlerocklavender.com

Or mail or hand-deliver to:

#2 The Gardens @ Sandy Bend 953 Sandy Bend, Castle Rock Open 10-4 July 24, 25, 27.

Closed Saturday the 26th. 360-703-8174 Facebook: The Plant Station. Exit 49 or 48 to downtown. Head west on ”A” Street, left onto West Side Hwy, right onto Wren Loop, left onto Sandy Bend. #3 Cowlitz River Dahlias & Succulents 100 Chapman, Castle Rock Open July 24–27, 10–6 and by appointment, 360-751-1280. Exit 48 or 49. Head west on “A” Street. Turn right onto West Side Hwy to Chapman, turn right. Facebook: Cowlitz River Dahlias or www.dahlias4u.com.

Deadline: Submissions received by the 25th of each month will be considered for inclusion in Outings & Events listings in the next issue (published the 15th of the month), subject to timing, general relevance to readers, and space limitations.

#4 Castle Rock Nursery 331 Buland Dr, Castle Rock. Open M-Sat 9-5, Sundays 10–3. 360 2748388.Exit 48 or 49, west on Huntington then to Buland at sign.

Tues – Sat • 10am - 5pm or by appointment

503-703-5188

Call before you go . . .

Some say Life can be a Picnic... when you pack carefully and plan ahead.

Plan your future “I make today. house calls” Vincent L. (Vince) Penta, P.S. 1561 11th Ave. Longview

360-423-7175

General selection available Columbia River Reader’s office 1333 - 14th Ave. Longview, Wash.

Mon-Wed-Fri • 11- 3pm Special orders or info: 360-261-0658

Castle Rock in Bloom: July 24–27 Itinerary

M-W-F • 11–3 or use mail slot

Previously at 1416 Commerce Avenue Longview, Washington

THE LAW OFFICE OF

AUXILIARY

HOW TO PUBLICIZE YOUR EVENTS IN CRR

Columbia River Reader 1333-14th Avenue Longview, WA 98632

New Location 1318 Commerce August 1

#5 The Gardens at Stillmeadows 201 Still Meadows Lane, Castle Rock Open 9-5, July 24–27.

360-751-7675. www.gardensatstillmeadows.com.

Exit 49 , east up Spirit lake Hwy 1.9 miles. Left at Chevron onto to Tower Rd. About 8 scenic miles, turn right on Stillmeadows Lane. #6 Harmony Winery Garden 555 Kroll Rd Castle Rock Open 10-6 pm July 24, 25 and 27. Closed Saturday the 26th. 360-274-7235 Facebook: Harmony wines WA or website: www. harmonywineswa.com. Exit 49 east, 1 mile, left Kroll Rd for 1 mile. Parking at second driveway. #7 Castle Rock America in Bloom Downtown Castle Rock Take a stroll downtown and see hundreds of baskets and containers overflowing with blooming flowers. Stop in for a bite to eat or refreshment at several cafés. Relax at Old Jail Park and the newly renovated Gateway Park (at the entrance to Front Ave). Visit with the friendly folks at fascinating shops throughout Downtown and Uptown (on the east side of I-5). Facebook: Castle Rock America in Bloom.

More info, page 12 Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 29

Movies

JERSEY BOYS and CHEF

From the Falsetto to Lip-Smacking Good

By Dr. Bob Blackwood

C

lint Eastwood doing a musical? Yes, you may have seen his “Bird” and “Honkytonk Man” with their stories of musicians, but those were all-Eastwood’s films (the product of an auteur, as the French critics would say, meaning a filmmaker whose personal influence and artistic control over a movie are so great that the Left to right: John Lloyd Young, Erich Bergen, Vincent Piazza and Michael Lomenda in Clint Eastwood’s “Jersey filmmaker is regarded as the Boys.” Photo: Warner Bros. author of the movie). His “Jersey Boys” (MPAA: R) came out after the Broadway show on The Four Seasons was a Broadway hit; it’s not an “Eastwood” film as the others are.

Eastwood took at least three of his performers—John Lloyd Young as Frankie Valli, Erich Bergen as Bob Gaudio, and Michael Lomenda as Nick Massi—from the Broadway cast. Vincent Piazza as Tommy Devito was Lucky Luciano in TV’s “Boardwalk Empire.”

Christopher Walken plays ganglord Gyp DeCarlo, a friend of the boys. Eastwood takes the young men’s story, shows their attempts in the 1950s, when they tried out different names before finally emerging onto the sales charts in 1960 renamed The Four Seasons.

Valli’s on-the-mark falsetto and Bob Gaudio’s music worked well for about 12 years, despite the British Invasion and other competition. When DeVito allegedly misappropriated the group’s money, only Gyp DeCarlo and Valli’s determination saved them. The group made good money on the road throughout the seventies.

Christopher Walken as Gyp DeCarlo instructs John Lloyd Young as Frankie Valli in Clint Eastwood’s “Jersey Boys.” Photo: Warner Bros.

The film works best when the actors are singing and when they are fighting among themselves. This is not Eastwood’s greatest film, but it will be a commercial success. “Jersey Boys” cost an estimated $40 million; it has already earned over $21 million in the first 10 days. Eastwood always watches the budget.

We know beer and wine

We’ll help you develop your “inner connoisseur” World-class Beverages

600 Beer Varieties 700 Wines 14 Tap Handles & Growlers Filled

BBQ Restaurant Meats Slow-Smoked Onsite

Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner

Home Brew Supplies Bulk Grains, Extracts & Hops

360.577.1541 • 924 15th Ave • Longview WA 30 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

T

he California kitchen comedy “Chef” (MPAA: R) is a film that was written, directed and stars Jon Favreau—also an auteur in my mind.

If you have ever worked in a restaurant, you know that the chef is often a sensitive person, an artist, and a performer. The chef tries to keep the owner happy, the patrons smiling and the kitchen crew working hard. No one can do it all every day.

Dr. Bob Blackwood is CRR’s regular movie reviewer. He taught with CRR’s “Man in the Kitchen” Paul Thompson at Wright College. Now retired, he lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

21 & Older

Left to right: John Leguizamo, Jon Favreau, Bobby Carnivale and L.A. Chef Roy Choi (the instructor of them all) on the set of “Chef.” Photo: Open Road Films

John Favreau as Chef Carl Casper first tries to keep his owner happy (Dustin Hoffman) but, in doing so, fails himself as a chef before a prestigious food critic. Almost everyone else— including his young son (Emjay Anthony), Scarlett Johansson as the hostess and Casper’s friend, Sofia Veraga as his wealthy ex-wife—sees Casper as too self-involved. When his ex gives him an old food truck, however, he revamps the truck with his son and his Number 1 guy (John Leguizamo).

Casper finds happiness being his own boss and loves his work. The film has a happy ending with a lot of laughs along the way.

It has appeal to a mass audience from children to senior citizens.

the LowerColumbia

Informer

D

Learn to LOVE your electronic devices!

By Perry Piper Studies surprise gym zealots

oesn’t it feel great to run through the park after a long day’s work? Feeling healthy and knowing you’re doing your body right. But are you, really?

A new meta analysis (released by Journals of the National C a n c e r Institute) of about 40 different studies paints a different picture. We pride ourselves in going to the gym for an hour or two after working a desk job nine to five, but we may be doing irreversible damage to our health from such lifestyle habits.

Who is more healthy: the person described above or someone ignoring the gym and simply moving periodically? The latter may be, surprisingly, because getting activity in each hour and optimally, walking three miles per day lowers cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer and obesity risk by 125%.

How would anyone hope to accomplish this if they work a desk job? Well, answering the phone while standing or

Being on your feet automatically gives you great posture in the event that your seated position isn’t the tallest.

moving often-used office necessities, like printers, into another room can force you to jump up more often.

The danger zone appears to be for anyone over age 25 sitting for four hours or more in a day. Of course, you’ll have to take sitting breaks since standing all day will also cause problems. The point is to incorporate more motion into your life and find a healthy balance for both.

After the initial four hours, every hour of sitting costs the sitter about 20 minutes of total life whereas, by comparison, each cigarette would shorten life by about 10 minutes.

Already at the Columbia River Reader office, I have starting using a tall file cabinet for my “standing desk” and the table next to it for seated breaks.

Don’t worry, you can still watch television, use the computer or participate in any other activity while seated. Just make sure to set an hourly reminder to go for a short stroll and get about 30 minutes of activity a day, even if that means marching in place while you brainstorm before the next meeting.

•••

Hoarder’s Paradise!

Oregon’s best insulated units

Largest size selection

600 E COLUMBIA RIVER HWY • CLATSKANIE, OR

Visit us online

www.clatskanieriverinn.com

Info/registration 360-270-0608.

Have fun in the sun!

We carry picnic, BBQ & camping supplies, travel games, beach & backyard water toys & MORE!

Clatskanie Town Center 640 E Columbia River Hwy. Suite B • Clatskanie, OR 503-728-3300 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 • Closed Sun

The Bag Ladies Yarn Shop

Learn a relaxing new hobby this summer

Free Knitting Lessons GIFT CERTIFICATES

Standing burns about 50 additional calories per hour than sitting, so there are active, weight loss benefits, as well.

Man in the Kitchen’s cat.

Fri., July 25, 10–11:30am Presented by Perry Piper, in Longview. Limited space.

SHOP CLATSKANIE FOR ALL YOUR YARN NEEDS

Perry Piper lives in Longview and works as CRR’s production manager/ photographer and technical consultant.

He serves on the Southwest Washington Symphony Board of Directors and volunteers for HOPE of Rainier. He enjoys learning about emerging and evolving technologies.

Follow MY example: I nap, then chase a mouse, nap, then chase a dog, nap, then catch a bird. You get the idea.

~ Smokey

Tech 101: FREE beginner level class on mobile devices How to get the most from your Apple and Android smart phones and tablets.

Clatskanie Mini Storage 503-728-2051 503-369-6503

Tues - Sat 10am - 4pm 265 W. Columbia River Hwy Clatskanie, OR • 503-728-9276

LE’S

Income Tax, Inc.

Virginia L. Leloff Licensed Tax Consultant CONSULTANTS ASSN

Corporate & Small Business Returns Tax Consulting • Payroll • Accounting Tree Farms • Farmers

Our Servingnts Clie 76 9 Since 1

WE OFFER

503-728-3414 Fax: 503-728-3921 Toll Free: 1-800-700-3414

503.728.9000

Across from City Hall 90 S Nehalem • Clatskanie Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 31

Clatskanie Drive-in 150 SE Truehaak Indoor & outdoor seating. Fabulous fast food. Burgers, shakes and MORE! M-Sat 11am –8pm, Sun 12–6pm New ownership. 503-728-3815.

Flowers ‘n’ Fluff Coffee Shop 45 E. Columbia River Hwy Wine Tasting, Dinner & Live Music Fridays 5:30–8:30pm. Unforgettable scones, On-the-go breakfast & lunch.

Coffee Shop M-F 5:30am–6:30pm; Sat 7am–6pm; Sun 8am–6pm. 503-728-4222

Fultano’s Pizza 770 E. Columbia River Hwy Family style with unique pizza offerings, hot grill items & more!

M-Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 11am–9pm.

503-728-2922

Ixtapa Fine Mexican Restaurant 640 E. Columbia River Hwy Fine Mexican cuisine. Daily specials.

The best margarita in town. Daily drink specials. Sports bar.

M-Th 11am–9:30pm; Fri & Sat 11am–11:30pm; Sun 11am–9pm. 503-543-3017

Rainier Alston Pub & Grub 25196 Alston Rd., Rainier 503-556-4213 11 beers on tap, cocktails.

Open daily 11am.

503-556-9753 See ad, page 9.

Conestoga Pub Cornerstone Café 102 East “A” Street Microbrews, wines & spirits Prime rib Friday & Sat. Open M-F 6am–8pm; Sat-Sun 7am–8pm.

503-556-8772

El Tapatio 117 West “A” Street, Rainier Authentic Jalisco cuisine from scratch. Full bar. Karaoke Fri & Sat 9pm–2am Riverview dining. Sun-Thurs 11am–10pm; Fri-Sat 11–11, Bar til 2am. Karaoke. 503-556-8323.

COLUMBIA RIVER

dining guide

Evergreen Pub & Café 115-117 East 1st Street Burgers, halibut, prime rib, full bar.

503-556-9935. See ad, page 9.

Goble Tavern 70255 Columbia River Hwy. (Milepost 31, Hwy. 30) Food, beer & wine + full bar, Live music. 503-556-4090. See ad page 9.

Hometown Pizza 109 E. “A” St. Take-and-bake, Delivery, To-Go and dine-in. Lunch Buffet M-F 11–2.

Open daily 11am; close M-Th, Sat 9pm, Fri 10pm. 503-556-3700

Luigi’s Pizza 117 East 1st Street, Rainier 503-556-4213 Pizza, spaghetti, burgers, beer & wine.

See ad, page 9.

Kelso Grounds for Opportunity 413 S. Pacific Ave. 360-703-3020 Wed–Sun 7am–3pm Breakfast and Lunch available all day.

Longview Bowers Down W-Sat 5–8

Gyros Gyros

M-Tues 11–4, W-Sat 11–5 1338 Commerce Ave., 360-577-5658 Serving Mediterranean fare for lunch and local farm fresh food for dinner.

Reservations recommended for dinner.

See ad, page 29.

Cassava

1333 Broadway. 360-425-7700 Locally roasted espresso, fine teas, fresh pastries daily, smoothies, beer & wine, homemade soups. Breakfast and lunch.

Country Folks Deli 1329 Commerce Ave., Longview. Opens at 10 for lunch. 360-425-2837

Restaurant & Wine Club

1329 Commerce Ave., Longview (alley entrance). Fine dining, happy hour specials. wine tastings. Tu-Sat open 5pm.

See ad page 20.

32 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Teri’s 3225 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview.

Fine dining, Happy Hour. Full bar.

Specials, fresh NW cuisine.

360-577-0717. See ad page 17.

Mary’s Burger & A Shake

4503 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview.

Gourmet burgers, hot dogs & more. Prices range from $7.50–12.50. Home of the Mountain Burger. M-Th 10:30–7, Fri -Sat 10:30–8, Sun 10:30–6.

360-425-1637. See ad, page 20.

1210 Ocean Beach Hwy., Longview Fish & chips, burgers, more. Beer & wine. 360-577-7972

Morenita Tacos

The Bistro

To advertise in Columbia River Dining Guide call 360-749-2632.

Hop N Grape 924 15th Ave., Longview M–Th 11am–8pm; Fri & Sat 11am–9pm; Sun 11am–7pm. BBQ meat slow-cooked on site. Pulled pork, chicken brisket, ribs, turkey, salmon. World-famous mac & cheese. 360-577-1541 See ad page 30.

1045 - 14th Ave. Dine in or take out. All fresh ingredients.

Tortas and green sauce are our specialties.

Mon-Sat 11:30am–9pm; Sun 11:30am–6pm.. 60-425-1838.

St. Helens Sunshine Pizza & Catering 2124 Columbia Blvd.

Hot pizza, cool salad bar.

Beer & wine. See ad, page 8.

503-397-3211

Bertucci’s

2017 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens Mon–Fri 9–5; Sat 10–4.

Breakfast sandwiches, deli sandwiches, espresso, chocolates.

See ad, page 10.

El Tapatio 2105 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens Authentic Jalisco cuisine from scratch. Full bar.

Karaoke Fri & Sat 9pm–2am Sun-Thurs 11am–10pm; Fri-Sat 11–11, Bar til 2am 503-556-8323

Scappoose Fultano’s Pizza 51511 SE 2nd.

Family style with unique pizza offerings, hot grill items & more!

“Best pizza around!”

M–Th, Sat 11am–10pm; Fri 11am–11pm; Sun 11am–9pm. Full bar service ‘til 11pm Fri & Sat. Deliveries in Scappoose.

503-543-5100

Ixtapa Fine Mexican Restaurant

Porky’s Public House 561 Industrial Way, Longview Slow-roasted prime rib Fri & Sat, flat iron steaks, 1/3-lb burgers, fish & chips.

28 draft beers. Full bar. See ad, page 5.

360-636-1616

Rutherglen Mansion 420 Rutherglen Rd. (off Ocean Beach Hwy. at 38th Ave.), Longview Open for dinner Fri– Sun, Friday wine tasting, Sunday brunch. Full bar.

360-425-5816. See ad page 12.

Castle Rock Links on the Corner

4858 West Side Hwy 5am–8pm, 7 days Fresh soup daily. Burgers, deli, chicken, clam chowder on Fridays breakfast, pizza.

Daily lunch & dinner specials.

360-274-8262 Parker’s Restaurant & Brewery 1300 Mt. St. Helens Way Exit 49 off I-5.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Home of the Rockin’ Burgers, hand-cut steak; seafood and pasta. Restaurant 8am–9pm (‘til 10pm Fri & Sat); Lounge 11am– midnight. 360-967-2333

33452 Havlik Rd. Fine Mexican cuisine. Daily specials. The best margarita in town. Daily drink specials. M-Th 11am–9:30pm; Fri & Sat 11am–11:30pm; Sun 11am–9pm. 503-543-3017

Toutle

Fire Mountain Grill at Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center.

15000 Spirit Lake Hwy fmgrill.com Burgers, sandwiches, beer & wine. 360-274-5217.

Woodland The Oak Tree 1020 Atlantic Ave., Woodland. Full lunch, breakfast and dinner menu.

Fresh from scratch cooking. Great happy hour menu. Sun 7am–9pm, M-Th 8am–9pm, Fri-Sat 7am– 10pm. 360-841-8567

MITK’s Moveable Feast

As an entrée, I suggested poached salmon, with a cucumber sauce, served cold, of course. This is a picnic, remember.

Lowly Potatoes

was excellent, and thousands of people, me included, would just lie back on the lawn, enjoy the scene and picnic.

Poached Salmon Fillet of wild* salmon Water, to cover fish 1 /2 bay leaf I Tbl lemon juice 1 /4 cup white wine (optional) Salt (1/2 Tbl per quart of water)

extra virgin olive oil and herbs. (Our daughter used garlic powder, onion powder, oregano and rosemary. You can also top with Parmesan cheese.)

cont from page 18

Most just brought a cooler of food and drinks, a blanket and maybe, a couple of chairs to unfold and rest on. Part of the fun was to walk among the crowd, checking out their picnic gear and the foods they brought. A few regulars assembled very cool picnic furnishing to add to the ambience: champagne buckets, crystal glassware, lowrise chairs and folding tables graced with a tablecloth and a candelabra designed to stay lit in light winds.

The foods served were equally variable.

Many picked up ready-to-eat foods from deli-counters and fast-food joints on the way to the park. A farmyard of fried chickens was consumed nightly. I’ve done that as well, when time didn’t allow for something special. It was most fun, however, when two or three couples planned a feast.

It came to pass that one day my friend, Jim, asked for my help. He had just met and flipped over a woman named Diane.

He wanted to impress her in the worst way, meaning, of course, the best way.

Their first date was an evening at Ravinia, featuring one of her favorite performers.

Jim’s a very basic guy, an electrician with a Harley Davidson and a heart of gold, but not much of a cook. He asked me to provide him a menu for their first time together that was within reach of his meager kitchen skill.

Here’s how it came together.

For starters I suggested my version of guacamole served with rounds of white corn chips. Jim halved this recipe for the two of them, with a lot of it left over. I’ve been told it freezes well for later use.

Guacamole ala Pablo 4 ripe avocados (they’re ripe when they’re soft, but not squishy.) ½ cup chopped onions ½ cup mayonnaise Lemon juice to taste 3-4 Tbl salt Cayenne pepper 4 plum tomatoes, skinned and chopped Halve the avocados; remove the pit and scoop out the good stuff with a spoon. Mash the avocados with a potato masher. Add the onions, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste. I like it a little hotter than most. Keep in mind that cayenne becomes more potent over time, so be careful. I add the tomatoes last, folding them gently into the mix, so their color remains visible. To skin the tomatoes, steam them over or in boiling water for a couple of minutes. The skin will peel off easily.

cont from page 18

Bake additional 15 to 20 minutes in a 375-degree oven until browned a little.

Eat and enjoy. Also good at room temperature.

*I prefer wild salmon to the farm raised variety. It contains NO artificial coloring, doesn’t contaminate our coastal waters, and gives our fisherman needed work.

Using a pot large enough to hold the salmon without folding or overlapping it, bring all the ingredients to a boil before adding the salmon. Wrap the salmon in a piece of cheesecloth and lower it, gently, into the boiling liquid. The cheesecloth will protect the top of the fish from drying out while cooking and keep the fish together when removing it, later. Any very clean cotton cloth will work. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and cook the fillet until it’s pink throughout, about 8-10 minutes, depending on its thickness.

Remove it from the poaching liquid and place on a dish, skin side up.

Remove all the skin and brown meat (fat, mostly), leaving only the pink, good stuff. Let it cool. Then, refrigerate it until ready to serve.

Cucumber Sauce 1 /2 cup mayonnaise, sour cream or plain yogurt (your choice. Jim used mayonnaise) 1 tsp (or more, to taste) lemon juice 1 /4 tsp salt 1 /8 tsp cayenne pepper (or less, to taste) 1 med. cucumber, (about 1 cup) seeded, chopped finely and drained 2 tsp finely chopped chives or onions and (optional) fresh dill Mix the ingredients together, keep it cool, and serve alongside the poached salmon.

Microwave Scalloped Potatoes Always a favorite at farm picnics, though ours were cooked in the oven; this is quicker.

Wrapped in newspaper, Scalloped Potatoes retain their heat well, but shouldn’t be left at room temperature for more than two hours.

4 med. potatoes, sliced 1/8-inch thick (3 cups) 3 Tbl. flour 3 /4 tsp salt 1 cup milk, scalded 2 Tbl. butter Paprika Arrange half of sliced potatoes in a 1-1/2 quart glass utility dish. Combine flour with salt and sprinkle half of this mixture over potatoes.

Repeat with other half of these ingredients.

Pour scalded milk over potatoes. Dot with butter and sprinkle generously with paprika. Cook in microwave 11 to 13 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Makes 4 to 6 servings. ~ New Microwave Oven Cooking Guide (Amana Radarange, 1972)

For a vegetable course I suggested Jim steam and serve cold asparagus or green beans, marinated in Italian Salad Dressing, with a little Parmesan cheese added.

Steamed Asparagus/Green Beans Place the vegetables in a steamer tray over boiling, salted water. Cook them until barely tender, 6-8 minutes for asparagus, 8-10 for green beans. Test with a fork and taste. You want them to maintain that bright green color and retain a crispness your mother didn’t think about. Once cooked, immerse in cold water to stop the cooking. Cool in your refrigerator. Before leaving for the picnic, put the vegetables in a zip-lock plastic bag, add some salad dressing and Parmesan cheese as a marinade. It’s that simple.

Jim was reaching his limits of creativity in the kitchen. So, as a final course, I suggested he serve bite size pieces of watermelon, honeydew melon and cantaloupe, plain and simple. He liked that part the best.

As a wine accompaniment I gave Jim a couple of choices: any Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio he could afford, or my favorite, a French Pouilly Fuisse, more expensive, but elegant.

The next day my phone rang and Jim was overflowing with news of his Ravinia date with Diane. After many years of marriage, they still remind me of my part in helping create that perfect first date.

•••

Paul Thompson taught speech and drama at Wright College, Chicago. He retired to Sequim, Wash., and two years ago moved back to his hometown of Longview. He enjoys movies, Cowlitz Black Bear baseball and backyard grilling.

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 33

Leisure & Family Life

Pack a perfect picnic

Portable meals part of our great American heritage First published in Columbia River Reader, July 2007

By Jane Isfeld Still

R

emember the good old days when you hopped on your bike, threw a picnic in a sack hung over your handlebars and biked off with a friend to discover the perfect spot? There is nothing like a good oldfashioned picnic to make you forget your cares, connect with family and friends and make memories.

One beautiful spring day, I decided on the spur of the moment to go on a picnic. I called a friend and invited her family to come. I will never forget her response. “I couldn’t possibly,” she gasped. “I need at least three days notice. I have to plan my menu, organize my day and get the kids ready.

I can’t just drop everything.”

I hung up the phone in a state of shock. I was born with my party shoes on and it was inconceivable to me that she could not throw together some PB&J’s or grab a pack of hot dogs and buns and meet me at the park. Who is too busy for a picnic? They are a part of our great American heritage.

Bon jour – is it a potluck?

The word picnic actually comes from the French pique-nique, meaning “fashionable social entertainment in the open air where each guest contributes an article to the open table.” Could this be a fancy word for potluck? Picnics have developed a much broader meaning today to include virtually any portable meal.

You don’t need to plan the ideal time or an exotic location to have the perfect picnic. Picnics are all about heart. There is a lot of magic created, sitting with your family on a blanket on the living room floor during a rainstorm, or even a snowstorm in the middle of winter.

Any place is perfect for a picnic When my husband was busy one year, we celebrated our anniversary with a picnic lunch in an empty room at his office.

Another year, some friends and I planned a picnic in a gazebo at the rose gardens in Portland. We went

ahead and set up the crystal, china and the dance music and had a wonderful time.

A friend of mine likes to take her family to the park on Sunday afternoons after church for a “white picnic.” The girls wear beautiful white dresses and the boys white pants. They use a white blanket and tablecloth and enjoy a quiet family day.

Reasons to have a picnic •You don’t have to clean your house.

No one will see it.

•If your house is a mess, it’s the perfect opportunity to leave and forget about it •If your house is too small, you can still have a big party •Nothing will get broken or stained •You don’t have to worry about the noise •It’s cheaper than renting a hall for a big party or eating in a restaurant

a small first aid kit, a lined plastic tablecloth and a picnic blanket. Don’t forget to take your camera for those wonderful photo opps.

Decide what you want to take to eat and make a list. Attach it to the refrigerator. As you take the items out check them off. There is nothing worse than forgetting key elements.

Picnic Tips •Take a cooler to keep foods from spoiling •Blue ice kept in your freezer will always be ready and won’t melt like ice

•You don’t have to worry about entertainment

•Separate warm foods from cold

•You don’t have to worry about guests who refuse to go home

•Put some wet cloths into a baggie for little people cleanup

•Remember a bottle/can opener

•Take a jug of cold water •Flashlight A picnic isn’t about location, it’s about seizing the moment. Grandma’s backyard, a balcony, a rooftop or even a rest stop on the way to wherever it is you’re going, are all perfect places.

You can prepare ahead of time for those spur-of-the-moment picnics.

Keep a basket stocked with picnic supplies. I made my own years ago, lining a bushel apple basket with red gingham.

A list and the camera Whatever you choose, whether you are brown bagging it or going with crystal, here is a list of essential items: Paper or plastic plates, utensils, cups, paper towels or napkins, salt and pepper,

34 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

•It’s easier to cut portions ahead of time in your kitchen •Pack the food just before leaving •Don’t partially cook the food at home and finish it at the picnic site; during transportation, food is at the best temperature for bacteria growth.

•Keep eggs and uncooked meat well-chilled until just before serving

Ideally, most of the food for a picnic is prepared at home. You might want to add a little variety to the traditional fried chicken, potato salad, baked beans and deviled eggs many people associate with picnics. Taco salad is fast and easy. Deli and finger foods are a nice change. Surprise your family by using pita bread for your sandwiches.

One thing is true: whatever you have in your refrigerator always tastes better at a picnic, as long as it is easy to handle and not messy.

Allow for uninvited guests Don’t forget the ants that love to come sample your fare. Soak some cotton balls in sugar water and put them in a baggie. Once at your picnic, open it up in an area away from you and the ants will enjoy their dinner, while you enjoy yours.

The perfect picnic is designed to put everyone in a happy mood, so don’t forget to grab the Frisbee, the baseball and bat and squirt guns. Enjoy the simple pleasures of summer and forge memories that will warm the heart for a lifetime.

•••

Jane Still, mother of six grown children and grandmother of six, has packed plenty of picnics. She lives in Lexington, a “suburb” of Kelso and is the author of The Crazy Daze of Motherhood.

You can learn to love technology All you need is a little help!

Learn to use your smartphone, TV, tablet, etc. with easy-to-understand lessons in your own home

• SKILLED • PATIENT • KIND

360-270-0608 perrypiper@hotmail.com

Group lessons available Call for your appointment

Attend Perry’s FREE

90-minute Class July 25 •10am call 360-270-0608 to register

PERRY PIPER PRODUCTIONS

a division of

e Summertim sy... g is ea and the livin EW in your N hair!

La-Z-Boy c

Your only local

Comfort Studio

Re-Elect

SUE BAUR Cowlitz County 1413 Commerce Ave. Longview • 360-575-9804 M-F: 9:30–5:30 • Sat: 10 - 5 • Closed Sundays www.elamshf.com • Financing Available

Prosecutor

PLEASE VOTE Primary Aug 5 General Nov 4 Tough • Fair • Proven •

•

Prosecutes the toughest crimes and works closely with law enforcement, crime victims, and community partners in Cowlitz County to protect our quality of life.

A tough, compassionate, and dedicated advocate for the rights of victims.

Join us in support of Sue Baur: Dr. Blaine Tolby Ken Botero Jan Dimmitt Senator Brian Hatfield Elected County Prosecutors of King, Snohomish, Pierce and Clark Counties

Authorized/paid for by PEOPLE FOR SUE BAUR, Jo Brewer, Treasurer, PO Box 2603, Longview, WA 98632.

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 35

MOHAI…Seattle’s Newest Museum

I

f you grew up in the Seattle area, you probably remember the National Reserve Armory, located on South Lake Union. During WW II it was the training site for thousands of Navy and Marine Corps reservists.

Today the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) has been re-

By Shirley Smith

include Boeing’s first commercial plane, the Petticoat Flag sewn by local women during the Battle of Seattle, and the Rainier Brewing Company’s 12-foot neon “R” sign.

The museum came to be through a process of change from the Seattle

724 China Garden Rd., Kalama, WA

Help me find a new owner for my home in Kalama and I will give you a gift of $5,000 cash. * Beautiful custombuilt 2,060 sq ft home on 0.76 acres

Grand Opening Day at MOHAI. Photo by Daniel Sheehan.

located here, but many of the elements of the Armory have been preserved in the new facility. The surrounding grounds with ponds, waterfalls, gardens, walkways and a large parking lot grace the area, truly a beautiful addition to downtown Seattle.

• 1 mile from I-5 in Kalama, WA • Large 30x48’ shop • 2 or 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths • Office/den (easily converted to a 3rd bedroom.

• Solid maple and tile floors • Large windows, 9-foot ceilings • Solid maple cabinets in den • Inverted floor plan (kitchen, dining area, living area, master bedroom, utility room on upper level • Huge 12x32 covered deck • ICF (insulated concrete forms) construction • 2500-gallon underground rain water storage tank • Modest view of the Columbia River and surrounding territory

Asking Price: $299,000

This property was professionally appraised in Feb 2014 at $295,000.

The driveway has since been paved at a cost of $8,000.

MOHAI is the largest private heritage organization in the State of Washington, with a collection of nearly 4 million artifacts, photographs and archival materials. Highlights

* More photos and rules/details about this offer at www.mellove.com (Click the “About Your Gift” tab) or call Mel Love 360-431-1985

36 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

Carrie Medack NMLS#190268

360-431-0998

Roni Silvery NMLS#1099967

360-430-6212

Bill Maxwell NMLS#188558

360-901-9633

Historical Society collection at the Montlake site. The new museum opened in 1952, but progress in the next 50 years was slow until the city of Seattle agreed to move the Armory and the area became Lake Union Park.

Through a $90 million campaign, construction was completed in time for the opening in December of 2012.

My companion, Ray McDermott, received two tickets to the Museum from his granddaughter so she met

Diamond Residential Mortgage welcomes Roni Silvery to our team!

1541 11th Ave., Suite A Longview, WA

Programs available to qualified borrowers. Rates and programs subject to change without notice.

Underwriting terms and conditions apply.

cont from page 37

us there on a Sunday and we spent a fascinating day exploring the many exhibits. It is so vast one could spend several days seeing it all. On the museum’s four floors you will see such artifacts as “The Patent Tree” in the Bezos Center for Innovation, the “Glue Pot” story of Seattle’s Great Fire, “Iron Chink” Engines of Industry, the first Starbuck sign, and a Navy periscope.

We were amazed reading the listed major contributors — dozens ranging from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars. Truly a grand tribute to Seattle’s founding fathers and the early industries.

If You Go:

Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle Wash.

Open daily 10am to 5pm; Thursdays until 8pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Closes at 2pm Dec 24 and Dec 31.

Admission: Adults $17, Seniors $15, Student/Military $14, 14 and under FREE. Visit the website, MOHAI.org, for more information or call 206- 324-1126.

MOHAI has an extensive immersive educational program aimed at all ages and local schools. Teachers can utilize “portable museum trunks” and “portable museum kits” that are complete with artifacts, maps, documents and standards-aligned lesson plans. Busing the students to the site will allow them to study subjects such as “Creating Our Community”, “Salish Stories” and “The Significance

of Salmon,” to name just a few. Some of the coming exhibits are “Jewish Merchants in Washington State,” “Chocolate: The Exhibition,” “Trailblazers,” “Back to the Future,” and “Waterways.”

We found everything to be first-rate — even the Compass Café was interesting and its food delicious.

We recommend a visit next time you are in Seattle.

••• Longview resident and frequent CRR contributor Shirley Smith, a retired travel agent and active community volunteer, is pictured here with her favorite companion, Ray McDermott.

A former logger and local small business owner, Brian Blake is OUR independent voice for Southwest Washington • Passed legislation to keep local biomass facilities open, preserving hundreds of jobs

• Funded local retraining programs for displaced workers and soldiers returning home

• Protected K-12 and higher education from further cuts

Send Brian Blake back to Olympia work for us!

Paid for by the Committee To Elect Brian Blake • www.ElectBrianBlake.com

Adult Diapers Aren’t the Only Way to Deal with Incontinence Fifteen million American women suffer the embarrassment and anxiety that accompany incontinence.

The problem is caused when the urethra cannot close tightly enough to hold urine in the bladder.

Childbirth and age are the two biggest contributors.

If you suffer from incontinence, Longview Urology has treatment options available to address a wide range of bladder control problems.

Longview Urology is located at 625 9th Avenue at Pacific Surgical Institute in Longview.

Call 360.425.3720 to schedule an appointment.

Chad Chesley, MD

Patrick Lassen, MD

John Mansfield, MD

Longview Urology is a veteran-owned company

www.longviewurology.com Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 37

the spectator

WHAT’S

UP

by ned piper

Picnics pleasures, past and present

S

that the knoll where we enjoyed our picnics was completely devastated by the blast.

ummertime is far and away the best time of the year for a picnic; a pleasurable outing, often on a blanket, sometimes at a picnic table, by a body of water or in a clearing in the woods. Eating in your backyard, to my way of thinking, does not make it a picnic, even if the meal is primarily picnic food.

A few years ago, my long-time friend, Lee Quarnstrom, sent me a family photo taken when we were probably five or six years old. I framed it and it hangs in my office, a reminder of a picnic at Long Beach with our Over their lifetime, most two families. Lee’s father individuals will participate Gordon is not in the in immediate family picnics, Left to right: Mrs. Jane Piper.

Lee Quarnstrom, Janey Piper, Ned Piper, picture. He was behind extended family picnics, the camera. My two-yearr o m a n t i c p i c n i c s a n d Lenore Quarnstrom, Dean Quarnstrom, Em Piper. old sister, Janey, appears company, church and/or A few months before Mt. St. Helens to be the only one aware a picture is class reunion picnics. More often erupted, Sue, her parents and I would being taken. The rest of us are all busy than not, except for romantic and drive after work to a knoll off of a with the picnic items laid out on the immediate family outings, picnics logging road that gave us a perfect blanket in the sand. are potluck affairs where everybody view of the mountain. We brought involved brings a dish to add to the along a picnic basket prepared by Sue’s I treasure that picture. It brings back whole. The bachelor brings a bag of mother, June Perry, an excellent cook. memories of the good times. Maybe potato chips or a bottle of wine, while Her father, George Perry, and I packed it’s one of the reasons picnics, to me, those who know their way around the four lawn chairs from the car to the are an important part of living the kitchen can be counted on to bring a knoll. The attraction, besides enjoying good life. healthful green salad, baked beans, tasty food and the fresh mountain air, fried chicken, potato salad or a favorite ••• was a burst of steam from the active dessert. volcano every 15 or 20 minutes.

Ned Piper may be found at most Cowlitz We in the Pacific Northwest have Black Bears home games, on the golf With every burp from the mountain so many wonderful places to picnic; course, tending the garden, or selling ads we’d “ooh” and “aah,” much like you along our rivers and creeks, in the and distributing Columbia River Reader. hear at fireworks displays. We learned surrounding forests, at our ocean later, after the May 18 eruption, beaches or in city and county parks.

Here are two reasons I work hard for education.

Re-elect

Dean Takko Washington State Representative

DEMOCRAT

19 District • Position 1 th

Paid for by Dean Takko for State Representative Committee P.O. Box 1025 • Longview, WA 98632 38 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader

UNDER THE BRIDGE?

By Amy Fischer, Port of Longview Communications/Public Affairs Manager

T

hree months into my new job at the Port of Longview, I’m still picking up more knowledge by the day. There’s so much to learn about all the parts of this economic engine and how they work together.

It’s fascinating to find out how things happening far away can have an effect locally. For instance, while analyzing the Port’s 2013 tonnage and financial reports, I found out that as a result of last summer’s Midwest drought, the Port didn’t export as much corn as anticipated. A lack of rain in Iowa, 1,800 miles to the east, translated into fewer ships at our docks last year.

But overall, our cargo volumes are growing, and that’s good news: It means more ships are docking at the Port. Additional cargo results in more revenue for the Port – which is reinvested into Port facilities to attract more cargo. It means more money is flowing through the community because workers have more spending power.

That’s why I’m excited by the Port developing Barlow Point into a marine terminal. This summer, we hired a consultant to develop a master plan for the 280-acre vacant property east of Willow Grove. That way, when customers approach us with proposals, we can easily evaluate whether they’ll be a good fit and would put the property to its highest and best use.

A few years from now, I hope to report that the Barlow Point expansion has boosted the Port’s cargo volumes, increased our revenues and created hundreds of living-wage jobs. Getting to that stage will be a long process, but it’s an exciting one because everyone in the community shares a stake in the outcome. Let’s cheer on this seedling we’ve planted on the river in the hope it grows strong and bears the sweetest, juiciest fruit you can imagine.

••• Contact Amy at afischer@portoflongview. com or call 360-425-3305. Read more about the port at www.portoflongview. com.

Columbia River Reader /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / 39

40 /July 15 – August 14, 2014 / Columbia River Reader