CRREADER.COM Vol. XVIII, No. 192 • August 15, 2021 • COMPLIMENTARY Helping you discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region at home and on the road
People+ Place
Bounty Hunter
From Farm to Market
page 26
COLUMBIA RIVER
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A JAUNT TO LA CENTER • CTPA NEW SEASON • SQUIRREL FEST SCHEDULE
COLUMBIA RIVER READER COLLECTORS CLUB
LEWIS AND CLARK REVOLUTIONIZED
• COMPLIMENTARY 176 • March 15 – April 15, 2020 CRREADER.COM • Vol. XVI, No. road River region at home and on the the good life in the Columbia
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What really — truly — happened during those final wind-blown, rain-soaked thirty days of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s trek to the Pacific? Southwest Washington author and explorer Rex Ziak revolutionized historical scholarship by providing the answers: day by day and week by week. We’re delighted to offer In Full View, and Rex’s other two books, one with an extraordinary fold-out map, as our inaugural offerings from CRR Collectors Club.
MOSS IN YOUR LAWN? What to do page 15
ONE RIVER, MANY VOICES WASHINGTON’S POET LAUREATE COMES TO WAHKIAKUM COUNTY page 14
People+Place
Cutting Edge The art of the woodcut
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page 28
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Field Guide to the Lower Columbia River in Poems and Pictures By Robert Michael Pyle and Judy VanderMaten. Boxed Signature Edition, Color and BW $50 / Trade paperback $25 “It’s a different way of seeing.” A one-of-a-kind Field Guide to the lower Columbia, in poems and pictures. Now available from Columbia River Reader Press in two editions.
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DISPATCHES FROM THE DISCOVERY TRAIL
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A Layman’s Lewis & Clark By Michael O. Perry Boxed Signature Edition, Color and BW $50 / Trade paperback $25 Compiled from the popular CRR series, with new notes and commentary, this book adds a gifted amateur historian’s insights, quirks and observations to the lore and legacy of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.
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t is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news of the passing of our dear friend and CRR columnist, Paul Thompson — our beloved Man in the Kitchen. Paul died on July 28 at the Hospice Care Center in Longview. I first met Paul when he began coming to Longview to visit family and old friends about 20 years ago. He was then living in Sequim, Washington, after retiring from his career teaching speech and drama at Wright College in Chicago. He’d also worked as a freelance stage carpenter and set designer. Paul purchased wooded acreage and lived in a tiny trailer while fulfilling his longtime dream of logging trees from the property, cutting them into lumber with an on-site portable sawmill, then building a home of his own design. He finished his house and lived in Sequim about 10 years before moving back to his hometown of Longview in 2012. Paul and my husband, Ned, attended R.A. Long High School (Class of 1958), LCC, and UW, where they studied drama together. At age 19, they took a break and set off for Europe to “bum around” for several months, returning on the Queen Mary. Over the subsequent years, they frequently re-told tales of their adventures and escapades.
Publisher/Editor: Susan P. Piper Columnists and contributors: Tracy Beard Jan Bono Hal Calbom Alice Dietz Michael Perry Ned Piper Robert Michael Pyle Marc Roland Alan Rose Alice Slusher Greg Smith Debra Tweedy Judy VanderMaten
Sue’s Views
gadgets ... soon evolving into his “Man in the Kitchen” persona and popular monthly column.
When no longer actively writing for CRR, Paul became a “People+Place” sponsor and chose thoughtfully the “causes” he spotlighted each month, always wanting to express his own appreciation and inspire others to join in supporting the efforts and opportunities that make life better for everyone.
Later, as Paul’s health began to decline, we would from time to time reprise and update his mostrequested recipes, titling them “Man in the Kitchen Classics.” He relished his role in CRR and contributed immensely to the paper’s spirit and success.
A few times in recent weeks, he would read aloud the epigraph in his well-worn copy of a favorite book, choking up and getting misty-eyed. I think he knew his life was winding down, and this passage stirred his feelings of gratitude, love of adventure, and of this sweet, old world.
Paul had already traveled the world in his summers off as a college professor, but still open for more he accompanied the extended Piper Family on a few trips in the last few years. Paul loved to travel.
Man in the Kitchen’s Moveable Feast When CRR was still just a dream to me, I asked Paul, semi-seriously, if he’d be willing to write a column and also chip in $50 a month to help me launch a newspaper. He laughed, a more polite way of saying “No.” But when the time came, he heartily joined in with the first issue, writing about plays, clam digging, smelt-dipping, kitchen
ON THE COVER Yvonne Krause at the Cowlitz Community Famers Market on 7th Avenue, Longview,
Photo by Hal Calbom
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” ~ Ernest Hemingway
We rode Segways in Prague, listened to Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” in Paris, and marveled at the wondrous Panama Canal. As neighbors, we shared special occasions, celebrations, home improvement projects, and everyday pleasures, usually involving good food, good libations, good humor, and good friends. Paul absolutely enjoyed the good life. Cheers!
I am forever grateful to Paul for his friendship, generosity, wit and wisdom. He was a delightful man and a friend to us all. We’ll miss him.
Sue Piper
Columbia River Reader... helping you discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region at home and on the road.
In this Issue
2
CRR Collectors Club
4
Letters to the Editor
Columbia River Reader is published monthly, with 15,000 copies distributed in the Lower Columbia region. Entire contents copyrighted; No reproduction of any kind allowed without express written permission of Columbia River Reader, LLC. Opinions expressed herein, whether in editorial content or paid ad space, belong to the writers and advertisers and are not necessarily shared or endorsed by the Reader.
5
Tribute: CRR’s Man in the Kitchen
6
Civilized Living: Miss Manners
7
Dispatches from the Discovery Trail ~ Episode 5
Submission guidelines: page 32. General Ad info: page 24
25
Where Do You Read the Reader?
26
Lower Columbia Dining Guide
27
Marc Roland on Wine: Tending Vineyards
30
Kelso’s Highlander Festival
Columbia River Reader, llc 1333 14th Ave Longview, WA 98632 P.O. Box 1643 • Rainier, OR 97048
28
Besides CRR, What Are You Reading?
29
Cover to Cover ~ Book Review / Bestsellers List
31
Mount St Helens Club Hikes
Office Hours: M-W-F • 11–3* *Other times by chance or appointment
32-33 Submissions Guidelines / Outings & Events
Technical Advisor: Perry E. Piper Editorial/Proofreading Assistants: Merrilee Bauman, Michael Perry, Marilyn Perry, Tiffany Dickinson, Debra Tweedy Advertising Manager: Ned Piper, 360-749-2632
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Visit our website for the current issue and archive of past issues from 2013.
11
A Different Way of Seeing ~ The Tidewater Reach
12
Provisions along the Trail: Tracy’s Shrimp Enchiladas
13
Out & About: Go with the Flow ~ La Center
15
Longview’s Squirrel Bridges
18 Quips & Quotes 19-22 People + Place ~ Truckin’: Yvonne Krause
34
Northwest Gardening: Heat Wave Gardening
35
Farmers Market Listings
36
Astronomy / Looking Up / The Sky Report: Aug 20 - Sept 19
38
The Spectator: Thinking about Life and Longtime Friends
38
Plugged In to Cowlitz PUD Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 3
Letters to the Editor
Achieving Excellence
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Ready for Jeopardy The photograph by Margaret BourkeWhite that graced the cover of the first Life magazine was of the spillway of Fort Peck dam, not the Hoover dam. So I won’t be in the category of people you only hear from when there is an error, let me tell you that I enjoy the Reader very much. I always learn something new about this part of the world. Having shepherded about 120 issues of the Cowlitz Historical Quarterly, numerous newsletters, a few books and miscellaneous other publications, I know how hard it is to be error-free. Rarely if ever achieved by me. When I bicycled the Lewis and Clark Trail in 2005 I spent one night in Fort Peck. Subsequently, I read two Ivan Doig novels that take place there. When I learned that a photograph of the dam was on the cover of the first Life magazine, that kind of stuck with me. Maybe I’ll be on Jeopardy someday and that will be the final question?
Community Treasure Many thanks Susan. I had the same feeling about the sunburst (see photo, page 25 and editor’s note, below). Steve and I look forward to reading the Reader each month and supporting the businesses in it. Thanks for creating and keeping this community treasure in our hands. All the best. Emme Tronnes Longview, Wash. Editor’s note: We wondered if the “starburst’ showing in the photo of her son,Tyler Tronnes, might be taken as a sign of protection as he begins his service to our country; we all thank him and wish him and his parents the best.
FROM THE PET DEPT. Finally, my favorite time of the year: the dog days of August.
Dave Freece Longview, Wash. Editor’s note: Mr. Freece, now retired, served many years as director of the Cowlitz County historical Museum. CRR mis-identified the photo on Life magazine’s cover shown on page 3 in the July issue. We regret the error.
~Ginger Victoria Findlay’s dog, aka Gretchen
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In Fond Remembrance
MAN IN THE KITCHEN CLASSICS Cobb Salad, a hit at summer potlucks By Paul Thompson • Photo by Perry Piper Originally published in CRR July 2012
W
arm summer days invite the gathering of friends to share food. Potlucks become the popular theme, often with friends and family bringing their favorite salads. I made a big hit at the last cookout with my Cobb Salad. It’s a beautiful presentation, with rows of turkey, blue cheese and crumbled bacon laid
out on a bed of lettuce and drizzled with a special dressing. Garnished with sliced avocados, hard boiled eggs, olives and tomatoes, the salad makes taste buds tingle with anticipation. The legend of Cobb Salad began in 1926 when Bob Cobb (I’m sure his mother called him ‘Robert’) created a midnight snack using leftovers from the day at the Brown Derby, his restaurant in Los Angeles. I prefer to serve the salad without tossing it together, leaving the rows intact. That leaves open the possibility of guests loading up on one part of the salad, usually the bacon, while later diners are left with what remains. It’s a choice. However you handle it, your guests will remember your Cobb Salad as something special. •••
MITK Cobb Salad Dressing 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, minced 1/3 cup olive oil Salt and pepper Shake well and add the dressing to the salad, with a little extra on the side.
Paul Thompson wrote “Man in the Kitchen” since the beginning of CRR. He passed away in July and we are re- running this column in tribute to his steady presence in CRR over the years.Paul enjoyed gathering with friends and family for good food and good fun. If you are going to or hosting a summer potluck, we recommend taking Paul’s favorite Cobb Salad, and thinking of him in fond remembrance.
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Civilized Living
By Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin
Wording a non-invitation; showing off vs. enjoying stylish traditions; the un-acknowledged gift DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am not a person of stature nor wealth. My home is modest in size, and it does not have a place to sit and eat other than the kitchen table. However, I do have space outdoors that is quite comfortable with tables and chairs. I inherited silver and china (from 1886) that nobody else in the family wanted, and I would like to use it rather than have it sit in a box. It seems like the china and silver are begging to come out! Jewelry, Glass & Paper Art by
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My desire is to reintroduce the bygone stylish ladies’ luncheon into my life and the life of ladies in the neighborhood, should they be gracious enough to accept my invitations. How does one do that when blessed with inherited silver and china, but not much else? I do enjoy hosting casual backyard barbecues, but I would like an excuse to bring out the silver and china
sometimes. In my desire to host an event where the food is served on something other than paper plates, I don’t want to come across as trying to belong to a social status that I do not. If I organized a ladies’ luncheon, would I come across as a pathetic, mature woman wanting to play tea party? Where do I start? Is it even possible? Should I accept my non-glamorous lot in life for what it is, keeping my china and silver in boxes with hopes that one of my children will be able to use it someday? Should I just use it for everyday life? GENTLE READER: Yes, use it every day. This is equipment for eating, not stage props for a life you don’t yet lead.
Miss Manners wants you to get used to enjoying your inheritance instead of putting it away for future generations who may or may not appreciate it. (Usually that skips a generation, but you can’t count on it.) There is no reason not to use these things at your barbecue parties, where sturdier implements than plastic and paper should be appreciated. There is also no reason not to give somewhat more formal ladies’ luncheons, as long as you think your guests will enjoy that — and you have rid yourself of the self-consciousness of thinking that you are showing off. DEAR MISS MANNERS: How do I word a birthday party invitation in which children don’t need to bring a present but do need to pay their entrance into the facility? cont page 32
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Lewis & Clark
DISPATCHES FROM THE DISCOVERY TRAIL EPISODE 5
In April we introduced a revised and expanded version of Michael
A Dinosaur, Plesiosaur and Prairie Dogs
H
ow would you go about capturing a prairie dog to send to the President of the United States? And why would you want to do it in the first place? Many readers who have tried to catch a mole in their lawn or garden will get a kick out of what Lewis and Clark did. By August 1804, Lewis and Clark’s Corp of Discovery had made their way up the Missouri River to present day South Dakota. While French trappers had been in the area for at least 75 years, the Corps of Discovery members were the first Americans to see the vast expanse of the Great Plains, which was a virtual Garden of Eden. Every time they saw a new animal, they shot at least one so Lewis or Clark could make the detailed examination needed to fulfill Thomas Jefferson’s instructions to document unknown plants and wildlife they encountered. In the first four months of their journey, they had seen many new species of animals, including the coyote, magpie, gray wolf, mule deer, pronghorn (often wrongly called an antelope), and prairie dog. Prairie dogs fascinated Lewis and Clark, and they saw a staggering number. Some biologists believe there were 5 billion prairie dogs at that time, while 200 years later they were candidates for protection under the Endangered Species Act. As late as 1905, a government scientist found a village
Perry’s popular series. In the new book, Dispatches from the Discovery Trail, edited by Hal Calbom and excerpted below, CRRPress includes an in-depth author interview and new illustrations and commentary.
covering an area the size of West Virginia and housing an estimated 400 million prairie dogs! Flush them out!
Lewis was so intrigued by the prairie dog that he decided to catch a live specimen to ship to Washington, D.C. Clark wrote “near the foot of this high Nole we discovered a Village of an annamale… which burrow in the grown. The Village of those little dogs is under the ground a considerable distance. We dig under 6 feet thro rich hard clay without getting to their Lodges.” Patrick Gass reported “Captain Lewis and Captain Clarke with all the party… took with them all the kettles and other vessels for holding water in order to drive the animals out of their holes by pouring in water; but though they worked at the business till night they only caught one of them.” According to Clark, “Some of their wholes we put in 5 barrels of water without driving them out, we caught one by the water forceing him out. The Village of those animals Covs. about 4 acrs of Ground on a Gradual decent of a hill and Contains great numbers of holes on the top of which those little animals Set erect make a Whistling noise and whin alarmed Slip into their hole. A bit of arsenic ought to do it
Earlier, Clark had written of a close call Lewis experienced: “by examination this Bluff Contained Alum, Copperas, Cobalt, Pyrites; a Alum Rock Soft & Sand Stone… also a clear Soft Substance
which… I believe to be arsenic. Capt. Lewis in proveing the quality of those minerals was Near poisoning himself by the fumes & tast of the Cobalt which had the appearance of Soft Isonglass. Copperas & alum is very pisen, Capt. Lewis took a Dost of Salts to work off the
effects of the arsenic.” Three days later, Lewis was still suffering: “Capt. Lewis much fatigued from heat the day it being verry hot & he being in a debilitated State from the Precautions he was obliged to take to prevent the effects of the Cobalt, & Minl Substance which had like to have cont. page 9
… they only caught one of them ... Spending most of September 7, 1804, digging and flooding their tunnels, the crew managed to catch just one prairie dog. Lewis had a cage built for it with the intention of shipping it back to Washington D.C. for President Jefferson to see firsthand. Lewis loaded the caged prairie dog onto the keelboat and fed it every day in an effort to keep it alive. The crew would continue up the Missouri until the end of October when they reached the Mandan Indian villages near present day Bismarck, North Dakota. Seven months after it was captured, the live prairie dog was loaded onto the keelboat, along with various plant and animal specimens, for the trip back to St. Louis. While it took more than five months to travel from St. Louis up to the Mandan villages, the return trip took just a month and a half. From St. Louis, the cargo was put on another boat and sent down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Another ship took the cargo through the Gulf of Mexico, around Florida, and up the coast to Baltimore. In August 1805 (almost a year after it was captured), the prairie dog arrived in Washington, D.C., alive! However, Jefferson was
Michael Perry enjoys local history and travel. His popular 33-installment Lewis & Clark series appeared in Columbia River Reader’s early years and helped shape its identity and zeitgeist. After two encores, the series has been expanded and published in a book. Details, page 2.
still at Monticello, and did not arrive in Washington until October 4, 1805. Jefferson then shipped the prairie dog to a natural history museum in Philadelphia, where it lived until at least April 5, 1806.
O. P E R R Y
dispatches MICHAEL
from the
No mere barking squirrel, he.
Discovery Trail with
HAL CALBOM DEBBY NEELY
by woodcut art
A LAYMAN’S
K
LEWIS & CLAR
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 7
Downtown Longview
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DOWNTOWN FUELING STATIONS Subject to COVID restrictions
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The Carriage Restaurant & Lounge 1334 12th Ave. Open from 6am to close. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, banquet room available for groups, parties, family reunions, etc. in lounge, open 6am. Three happy hours daily (8–10am, 12–2pm, 5–7pm). Group meeting room, free use with $150 food/drink purchases.
Dispatches
from page 7
poisoned him two days ago” Maybe he had added insult to injury by taking some of Dr. Rush’s Thunderclapper pills that consisted of a mixture of mercury and chlorine? Two days after Lewis tried to poison himself, the expedition came upon an area the Indians were deathly afraid to go near. Clark called it Spirit Mound and wrote “in an imence Plain a high Hill is Situated, and appears of a Conic form and by the different nations of Indians in this quarter is Suppose to be the residence of Deavels, that they are in human form with remarkable large
“
heads and about 18 Inches high, that they are Very watchfull, and are arm’d with Sharp arrows with which they Can Kill at a great distance; they are Said to Kill all persons who are So hardy as to attempt to approach the hill; they State that tradition informs them that many Indians have Suffered by those little people and among others three Mahar men fell a Sacrefise to their murceyless fury not many years Since – so much do the Mahas Souix Ottoes and other neibhbouring nations believe this fable that no consideration is suffecient to induce them to approach the hill.”
… a dinosaur ...
Nobody at all seemed even to know what dinosaurs were at this date. They obviously didn’t know what they had found, but it’s hard to believe that somebody hadn’t found big bones before somewhere, but I don’t know if they had. So, the option was just leave it, or put it on the trusty keelboat. And here are these poor guys that have been pulling that beast — the keelboat, not the dinosaur — and pushing and sweating upstream, and they say, ‘here you go, here’s a couple hundred more pounds of bones for you.’”
One of the maps they obtained in St. Louis told of a volcano in South Dakota, but they were unable to locate it. Possibly it was a burning seam of coal (lignite) a St. Louis trader had seen. One thing they did find was a dinosaur. In 1804, nobody even knew about dinosaurs (the word wasn’t coined until 1845). But, in present day South Dakota, Clark found fossil remains of a plesiosaur, an ocean-dwelling creature of the Mesozoic Era. Clark wrote “we found a back bone with most of the entire laying Connected for 45 feet, those bones are petrified, Some teeth & ribs also Connected.” Some of the vertebra are now in the Smithsonian Museum. Loopy over the froot
The richness of the Great Plains was most impressive. As Clark wrote earlier, “The Plains of this countrey are covered with a Leek Green Grass, well calculated for the sweetest and most norushing hay – interspersed with Cops of trees, Spreding ther lofty branchs over Pools Springs or Brooks of fine water. Groops of Shrubs covered with the most delicious froot is to be seen in every direction, and nature appears to have exerted herself to butify the Senery by the variety of flours Delicately and highly flavered raised above the Grass, which Strikes & profumes the Sensation, and amuses the mind throws
AGENT SPOTLIGHT ~
B
it into Conjecturing the cause of So magnificient a Senery… in a Country thus Situated far removed from the Sivilised world.” Almost all of the native grassland has now been destroyed by farming. But along with the once uncountable buffalo and prairie dogs, there are still a few places left for people to see the same things Lewis and Clark’s party saw. The same holds true for the Missouri River; with the exception of a short stretch of river in the southeast corner of South Dakota that is still free flowing, it is now just a series of lakes behind the many dams between St. Louis and Montana. While some folks would like to preserve everything forever (including the Northwest forests), we should be thankful somebody saved at least a portion of it for future generations to enjoy. ••• Next episode we will learn of the tense meeting with the Teton Sioux, by far the most feared Indians in the west. Winter is fast approaching as they reach North Dakota.
Old Publishers never die... They just get (type) set in their ways
Meet Barbara Stephenson!
arbara Stephenson, a Pacific Northwest native, grew up on a cattle ranch in Castle Rock. She spent her summers at the county, state, and national fairs learning about hard work and dedication. After college, Barbara taught at Montessori School for 21 years! This is where she honed her communication and listening skills.
Today, she uses those abilities paired with her strong work ethic to ensure a smooth transaction for her clients. Barbara has been a part of the Windermere Kelso/Longview family since 2016. First-time home buyers are what get her excited, helping her clients build their financial future through home ownership. Whether you are buying or selling, Barbara Stephenson keeps your best interests in mind to help you reach your property goals.
Barbara Stephenson, Broker/Realtor 360-562-6382 • barbaras@windermere.com Kelso/Longview • 360-636-4663 209 W. Main St, Suite 200 • Kelso, WA
Cathlamet • 360-795-0552
102 Main St, Suite 200 • Cathlamet, WA
Mon- Fri: 8:30–5:00 Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 9
LOA Provides Sub-Specialty Medicine Care Get back in the action!
F
all weather in the Northwest is ideal for outdoor activities. While exercise is great, it can sometimes result in injury. From sprains and fractures to strains and tears, the talented staff at Longview Orthopedic Associates can provide the help you need.
Dr. Turner, MD
Several LOA physicians have sub-specialty certification in sports medicine care and have treated college and professional athletes in Los Angeles and Seattle. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Bill Turner, Jon Kretzler, Peter Kung, A.J. Lauder, Jake McLeod, and Tony Lin have the skill and experience to get you back in the action.
Dr. Kretzler, MD
LOA is located at Pacific Surgical Institute, where MRI and physical therapy services are available on-site for your convenience. Dr. Kung, MD
Dr. Lauder, MD
Dr. McLeod, DPM
Dr. Lin, MD
We welcome Kaiser patients with a referral! www.longvieworthopedics.com
360.501.3400
10 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
THE TIDEWATER REACH
A Different Way of Seeing Poem by Robert Michael Pyle • Photograph by Judy VanderMaten • Field Notes by Hal Calbom
‘A county seat that just sits and sits...’ River Pubs: The View from Maria’s Ernesto brings a pint of Aye Aye IPA and a brace of tongue taquitos. Outside, fugitive sun on work-release from the constant cloudbank skitters the river with tinsel. A minute later, iron filings. The railing out the window is the same color as the bottles of Cholula and Tapatio on the table. Beyond their red ranks, through the rain, Wright’s Hardware hulks beneath the longest tarpaper roof in the county: admission by appointment, call Wally; he’s probably got what you need. It rests its rangey gambrels against the biggest red camellia anywhere, carmine blossoms fixing to rot on the wet turf alongside, where a skirted old airboat holds up its end. Six Brusco tugs stand ready to push from the other side, if needed. Here’s where they filmed Snow Falling on Cedars, because nowhere else, Humboldt County to Juneau, looked old enough. “If I had Wright’s Hardware in Hollywood,” said my friend, the production designer, “I could retire.” Cathlamet on the Columbia: a county seat that just sits and sits, and shows no sign of going anywhere, very fast.
RIVER VILLAGE: CATHLAMET Cathlamet remains the only incorporated town in Wahkiakum, the smallest of Washington’s counties, and is the site of one of the region’s oldest Native American villages. The name “Cathlamet” (Kathlamet) is said to come from the local Chinookan language referring to the area as a “rocky shore.” Cathlamet became the Wahkiakum County seat in 1854 and was officially incorporated in 1907. The old waterfront still hosts tugboat operations, boat building, and other commercial businesses.
e
Field Guid to the
ver lumbia Ri Lower Co in s d Picture Poems an
Robert M
ichael P
yle
erMate
Judy Vand
n
Robert Michael Pyle and Judy VanderMaten
On this page we excerpt poems, pictures and field notes from our own “Field Guide to the Lower Columbia River in Poems and Pictures,” The Tidewater Reach by Gray’s River resident and renowned naturalist Robert Michael Pyle, and Cathlamet photographer Judy VanderMaten. The two dreamed for years of a collaborative project, finally realized when Columbia River Reader Press published The Tidewater Reach in 2020, presenting “a different way of seeing” our beloved Columbia River. For information on ordering specific editions, as well as our partner bookshops and galleries, see pages 2 and 39. Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 11
By Tracy Beard
PROVISIONS ALONG THE TRAIL & ON YOUR PATIO!
Tracy’s Shrimp Verde Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a great make-ahead dish for summer parties. Ingredients: 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped ½ Tbl. butter ½ cup onion - chopped
1 clove garlic - minced 1/2 tsp taco seasoning mixed with 1 Tbl water Salt and pepper to taste 6 taco-size flour tortillas
We’ve got you covered.
Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Melt butter in a saucepan and add onions and saute until transparent. Add the shrimp, garlic and salt and pepper. Cook 3 minutes.
WATER. FIRE. SMOKE. MOLD
Call 360-425-3331
ServiceMaster by JTS–Longview, WA • www.servicemasterjts.com
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12 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
5 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded 4 ounces Monterey jack cheese, shredded 1-½ cups salsa verde sauce (I like the Safeway brand, or you can make your own. Avocado and sour cream for garnish
COLUMBIAN ARTISTS ASSOC.
Place ½ cup salsa verde in the bottom of a baking dish. Mix half of the mozzarella and Monterey jack in with the shrimp mix. Heat the tortillas in the microwave to soften for 15 seconds each. Take one tortilla at a time and fill with 1/6th of the shrimp mix. Roll and place in baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Top with the rest of the Verde sauce and then with the remaining cheeses. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly. Garnish with avocado slices and sour cream.
OUT•AND•ABOUT
LA CENTER, WASHINGTON
Delve into a day of delights Story & photos by Tracy Beard
M
y friend BJ has lived in La Center for many years. As a resident, she knows all the fun things to do, exciting places to visit and the best food to eat. Follow me as I journey through her recommendations in this unassuming yet charming township in Clark County. Kick-starting the day My daughter Brittney and I arrived at Sadie and Josie’s Bakery around 9am. The shelves stood lined with decadent donuts, freshbaked loaves of bread, sweet pastries and assorted cookies and candies. Due to recent Covid issues, everything is boxed and ready for purchase. We bought shortbread cookies and peanut butter balls and headed over to Stonehill Coffee House. Eric Stenberg, the owner, made us a couple of crème brûlée coffees with caramel and French vanilla flavors. He unlocked the chairs on
Vancouver, Wash. resident Tracy Beard writes about luxury and adventure travel, traditional and trendy fine dining and libations for regional, national and international magazines. She is CRR’s “Out & About” columnist, now in her sixth year.
the front lawn, and we sat outside to enjoy our morning java with the sweets from the bakery. Raring to go after some caffeine and sugar, we drove to the corner of Fourth and Stonecreek, where we began our hike on the Brezee Creek Trail. Exploring on Foot The trail is named after one of La Center’s early settlers, Andrew Brezee. The trail travels 0.71 miles to East 14th Circle. Although steeper than expected, several benches provide rest stops along the way. Alix Firl, an Eagle Scout, built the benches. The Heritage Park Trail connects to the Brezee Trail and leads downtown and to the local schools. After finishing the short trek, we headed back into the center of town near the roundabout and parked in front of Sternwheeler Park (Note: Upcoming free concerts, Saturdays, 6-8pm: Aug 21 Blake Johnston; Aug 28 Fortunate Gold tribute to CCR & Neil Young). The path is just to the right of the park’s sign and leads down to a lush area with stunning carvings. Shaded picnic tables and large wooden carvings make this an interesting stop for a snack. We continued down the trail to a lovely pavilion and amphitheater with seating carved into the hillside. Brittney and I decided that this place would make a stunning spot for a small outdoor wedding. The trail continues south to the La Center Bottoms, a county-owned stewardship site consisting of wetlands, flood plains, forested uplands and a shoreline that runs alongside the East Fork Lewis River. The area is one of three watchable wildlife sites in the county, and it spans 314 acres. Visitors can learn from the interpretive signs, view wildlife from specially designed blinds, meander the 8-foot-wide walking trail and possibly spy coyotes, otters and migratory waterfowl. Discovering More Fun
La Center boasts four card rooms, all located near the town’s roundabout. In the summer, fruit stands line the roadside near the bridge, and Bar UK River Ranch Camp & Ride offers kayaking, camping and horseback riding. Cooling Down After hiking The Bottoms and strolling around town, we went into the El Rancho Viejo Mexican Restaurant and cooled cont page14
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 13
LaCenter from page 13
o f f w it h a t as t y Cadillac margarita. Refreshed, we walked over to The Trellis gift shop. This eclectic shop boasts a variety of interior and exterior decorations, plants, jewelry and more. Divulging the Past The 4th Street Bar and Grill opens at 4pm. BJ said this was an excellent place for dinner and drinks. Inside, we met Anthony Sharrah, owner of both The Trellis gift shop and the bar and grill. He has owned The Trellis for 16 years and purchased the bar and grill just short of seven years ago. Working at The Trellis, he had watched the bar go through four different owners. One day, he realized that he should buy it. He set out to gentrify the building and created a menu that featured his favorite scratch-made dishes and hand-crafted specialty cocktails, emphasizing a few classically made Prohibition drinks. Over the last six and a half years, Anthony has worked hard to improve the 107-year-old building that houses 4th Street Bar and Grill. The building has always harbored a bar. Aside from replacing the necessary plumbing, electrical, and flooring, he has added ceiling fans and a fireplace on the back patio and recently replaced the bar tops with wider ones. This way, guests can enjoy drinks and dinner at the bar without being crowded or spilling on their laps. Anthony upgraded and reinforced the back bar with columns and shelves that enhance the mirror. Anthony said he heard about the back bar from a patron. The story goes that the back bar came from an old tavern. This tavern was the first stop for those coming up the river. Gentlemen that frequented this tavern were in the habit of tossing a coin onto the top of the back bar for good luck. Eventually, the weight of the coins caused the top of the back bar to sag. One night, the building caught fire, and the only thing salvaged was the back bar. Anthony said he wasn’t sure if the coins were used as a down payment for the new bar at its current location or if they were enough to purchase the entire building. Dining and Drinking Chef Tim operates the kitchen, and Tracie, the alcohol control coordinator and chief bartender, manages the bar. We didn’t meet Tim, but Tracie was warm and funny and her cocktails were top-notch. We started with a couple of cocktails (above, right). I had the Old Fashioned made with Knob Creek Kentucky bourbon, and it was spot on. Brittney tried “The Last Word,” a gin-based Prohibition-era cocktail originally developed at the Detroit Athletic Club by Frank Fogarty. Traditionally, this drink is made with one part gin, one part green chartreuse (a rich botanical spirit with approximately 128 different herbs made by French monks), one part lime juice, and one part Maraschino liqueur. It is shaken with ice and strained into a coupe glass. The Last Word is sweet and herbaceous with an appealing scent, an appetizing light green hue and a refreshing taste. 14 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Anthony recommended the Caprese salad made with orange and red heirloom tomatoes and the Reuben sandwich with meat marinated in their six-year-old marinade. It’s like a sourdough starter that gets better with time. The slow-roasted corned beef melts in your mouth and is served on toasted rye bread with housemade sauerkraut and special sauce. The sandwich was delicious, and we paired it with crispy garlic parmesan fries. The menu has numerous scrumptious options, and there are always one or two nightly specials. Anthony informed us about the locals’ secret menu that included street tacos and other yummy plates. We ordered the “off the menu” steak bites with a caramelized onion and blue cheese sauce and a wedge salad. It was amazing. The food at 4th Street Bar and Grill is solid! Everything we had was expertly executed and tasted fantastic. La Center may be small, but there are plenty of fun ways to spend a day. Become a visitor near your own hometown and explore La Center and other lesser-known towns in the area.
Market swings making you uneasy? Let’s talk. Nick Lemiere CFP®
Directions: I-5 Exit 16 to La Center, or 6.7 miles south from Woodland on NW Pacific Highway.
Member SIPC
•••
Day Trippers!
We’re your convenient last stop on the way to ING R the Mountain! O L P X G•E N I K I H R• I A H S • FRE S C I Full Grocery N PIC Full Deli
Serving the local community for more than 80 Years!
Fresh-Cut Meat Case Local Produce Wines & Spirits Chowder, Fish, Shrimp Handmade Burgers Crazy-Good Chicken! WI-FI • ATM Gas/Diesel
Grab & Go or enjoy our picnic tables!
DREW’S GROCERY & SERVICE, INC Just 10 miles from I-5 Exit 49
5304 Spirit Lake Hwy • Toutle, WA
360-274-8920
Community Silliness
LONGVIEW’S ANNUAL GATHERING OF
LONGVIEW’S SQUIRREL BRIDGE COLLECTION
NUTS!
1. The Nutty Narrows Bridge Olympia Way near 1525–18th Ave. Erected 1963 by Amos Peters and believed to be the world’s first squirrel bridge. Peters constructed the bridge of aluminum and a fire hose after seeing squirrels attempting to cross Olympia Way from the Library grounds to the Old West Side neighborhood. A wooden squirrel statue lower photo, at right) is located near the Shay Locomotive next to the library. 2. Bruce Kamp Bridge 1318 Kessler Boulevard. Erected in memory of Bruce Kamp in 2011. Made of copper, and the first covered squirrel bridge in the world, this bridge’s 24/7 squirrel web cam is accessible from the lvsquirrelfest.com website.
AUG 21 • SCHEDULE OF EVENTS In R.A.Long Park in Longview’s Civic Circle, 1445 17th Ave.
9am Official Opening! Vendor Booths, Nut House & Happy Kids Fun Run Kick-OffH 9:50am Sandy B. McNutt Welcoming at Kids Stage
ornhole Tournament begins C 10:30am Parade begins
10am
11am Spencer Sprocket @ Kids Stage (*presented by Fibre Federal Credit Union) 11pm Squirrel Bridge Tour $10 (repeats, see below) 11am Beer Garden opens, Music by KUKN, The Wave, KLOG 11:30am Circus Cascadis Kids Workshop 12:30 Penny the Puppet @ Kids Stage*
3. John R. Dick Bridge On Nichols Boulevard near RA Long High School. Designed and built by John R. Dick and installed in 2012, shortly after his death. It is based upon the Leonard Zakim Memorial Bridge in Boston. Mr. Dick had a lifelong fascination with bridges, and enjoyed the TV show Boston Legal, in which the bridge appeared prominently in background shots. 4. OBEC Bridge Louisiana Street, near 1503 – 23rd Avenue. Constructed and donated by the company which built the new Washington Way bridge across Lake Sacajawea. Constructed of wood with interesting architectural bracing and installed in 2013.
2pm Alexander Master of Marvels @
5. Safety Awareness Bridge 1708 Kessler Boulevard. Designed and constructed by the Bits and Bots Robotics Club of RA Long and Mark Morris High Schools. Inspired by the memory of Linda LaCoursier, who was struck by a car. Made of aluminum with cutouts and tinted material. Many squirrels use this bridge. Installed in 2015.
Kids Stage* 4:30 TBA performance @ Kids Stage* 5pm Nut House closes 8pm Cornhole Tournament ends 8:30pm Movie Nioht @ RALong Park All Day: Vendor Row • Food Concessions Art in the Park (Columbian Artists show) Squirrel Bridge Tours $10 11am, 12pm, 1pm,
6. R.D. Olson Mfg, of Kelso, Wash., built this bridge to resemble the Lewis & Clark Bridge crossing the Columbia River at Longview/Rainier. This bridge was installed on Kessler Blvd across from Lions’ island (near Washington Way, in the 1000 block of Kessler Blvd) stretching across the 57-foot wide street. 7. All-aluminum exact scale replica of Portland’s Fremont Bridge (pictured above) On Kessler Blvd near Kessler School at the south end of Lake Sacajawea. Constructed by H&N Sheet Metal in W. Kelso, cut out by S & R Sheet Metal in Kelso, it is the longest bridge so far at 20 feet.
Note: There is, reportedly, an 8th bridge in Longview’s collection. At press time, specific information was uncertain. Please report any sightings to publisher@crreader.com
2pm, 3pm, 4pm For more info: lvsquirrelfest.com
LONGVIEW’S SQUIRREL BRIDGES
NMLS# 186805
Committed to helping you find
THE RIGHT MORTGAGE.
Programs available to qualified borrowers. Rates and programs subject to change without notice. Underwriting terms and conditions apply.
Carrie Lynn Medack Sr. Loan Officer 360.431.0998 NMLS#190268
1541 11th Ave., Suite A Longview, WA
Map by Michael Perry
NMLS#1164433
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 15
“Together, for Longview!”
Endorsements:
Brian Blake
Bipartisan Experienced Sound Judgment
Former 19th District State Representative, 2002-2021
Cowlitz County Democratic Women Mainstream Republicans of Washington Dean Takko
Steele Photography
Former 19th District State Representative, 2004-2021
Dennis Weber
Cowlitz County Commissioner, District 2 Anne Bennett and David Swanson Charlene and Dave DesRosier; owners, Camp Kalama Cait Earnest Pat Faires Ann Marie Fugate Kris McElroy-Weber Meredith Long and Dorian Brebeck Ty and Anne Morris Jay and Michelle Opgrande Marc and Nancy Roland Laura Yoder
“Tom provides the maturity, experience, and bipartisan support required to be a successful leader on Longview City Council. Vote for Tom!” -Brian Blake, former 19th District State Representative “We need leaders with a ‘how can we serve you’ attitude, not another ‘negative ‘nellie.’ Tom Lee has the ‘can do’ spirit that will bring us solutions reflecting Longview values. Please join Kris and me in voting for Tom Lee for City Council.” -Dennis Weber, Cowlitz County Commissioner, District 2 “Nancy and I endorse Tom Lee for City Council because Tom has only one agenda: to represent all of the people of Longview, and to make his lifelong community a better place.” -Marc and Nancy Roland
I am proud to be Longview born and raised. As a local real estate attorney, I am an experienced negotiator who knows how to bring people together to find workable solutions.
Vote for Tom!
Joanna & Tom Lee and their dog, Wilbur. Paid for by Tom Lee for Longview • 1603 Larch Street #2490, Longview WA 98632 • tomleeforlongview.com 16 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts ANNOUNCING THE ALONA & CARL FORSBERG
2021-2022 MAIN STAGE SEASON
GRATITUDE!
A
fter a dark and difficult year, the Columbia Theatre curtain is rising! We cannot begin this season without thanking each of you for supporting the arts in our community. The support we received during a time when our stage was dark, was the light needed to move forward. We could not have done this without you. Join us as we reconnect audiences with artists! What’s in store for you this season? Opening the season is Grammy award-winning artist, Pink Martini, featuring China Forbes and Thomas Lauderdale. The exotic music of this fabulous group will transport you to faraway places and times. Travel around the world with America’s Got Talent finalist, Catapult, a shadow illusion company who use their bodies to transform into mountains, helicopters, dragons, and elephants. Soothe your soul and mind with new age musician and pianist, Ann Sweeten. Tap your subconscious mind with Hyprov, an original and completely unforgettable theatrical experience of hypnotism and improv comedy with master hypnotist, Asad Mecci, and Colin Mochrie of Whose Line Is It Anyway? Need a chuckle? Laugh yourself silly with the best of the Seattle Comedy Competition. Feeling nostalgic? Stroll down memory lane with a cast of Broadway stars commemorating the past 50 Years of Rock and Roll and Walk A Mile In Our Shoes, with Portland’s “First Lady of Blues” LaRhonda Steele, Norman Sylvester, Chuk Barber and Caton Lyles. Tired of walking? Ride the rails, through ghost towns with country musician and singersongwriter, Carl Wirkkala and his band the Whistle Punks! And Celebrate the return of Michael Allen Harrison, Julianne Johnson and Michael’s versatile trio! This season has something for everyone! See performance dates, page 33. For more information contact the Columbia Theatre Box Office at 360-575-8499. Or online at www.columbiatheatre.com
It’s Your Columbia Theatre – Don’t Miss A Moment!
To: Centralia, Olympia Mt. Rainier Yakima (north, then east) Tacoma/Seattle
Raymond/ South Bend
Oysterville •
Chinook
•
Grays River
Cathlamet 4
Astoria Birkenfeld
Mount St. Helens
Skamokawa
WestportPuget Island FERRYk
101
101
Pacific Ocean
• Woodland Tourist Center I-5 Exit 21 Park & Ride lot, 900 Goerig St., 360-225-9552
Castle Rock
• Naselle
Warrenton •
Seaside
• Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce Kelso Visitor Center I-5 Exit 39 105 Minor Road, Kelso • 360-577-8058
504
Long Beach
Columbia River
Washington
Vader
Ocean Park •
Ilwaco
VISITOR CENTERS
FREE Maps • Brochures Directions • Information
Vernonia
Longview
Ape Cave •
Kelso
Clatskanie Rainier
Woodland
rnelius NW Co ad o R s s a P
To: Salem Silverton Eugene Ashland
for
Points o mation f In Recre terest Special ation Dinin Events Arts & Eg ~ Lodging ntertain ment
• Pacific County Museum & Visitor Center Hwy 101, South Bend, WA 360-875-5224 • Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau 3914 Pacific Way (corner Hwy 101/Hwy 103) Long Beach, WA. 360-642-2400 • 800-451-2542
• Astoria-Warrenton Chamber/Ore Welcome Ctr 111 W. Marine Dr., Astoria 503-325-6311 or 800-875-6807
97
Goldendale
• Seaside, OR 989 Broadway, 503-738-3097; 888-306-2326
•Yacolt
St Helens
Local in
• Naselle, WA Appelo Archives Center 1056 SR 4, Naselle, WA. 360-484-7103.
• South Columbia County Chamber Columbia Blvd/Hwy 30, St. Helens, OR • 503-397-0685
503
Columbia City
Maryhill Museum
• Ridgefield
Scappoose•
Oregon
Cougar •
Kalama
• Wahkiakum Chamber 102 Main St, Cathlamet • 360-795-9996 • Castle Rock Visitor Center Exit 49, west side of I-5, 890 Huntington Ave. N. Open M-F 11–3.
Sauvie Island
Skamania Lodge
Vancouver Col. Gorge Interp.Ctr as m a C • Bonneville 12
Portland
Dam
Troutdale Crown Point
n Stevenso Cascade Locks Bridge of the Gods
Hood River The Dalles
To: Walla Walla Kennewick, WA Lewiston, ID
Map suggests only approximate positions and relative distances. Consult a real map for more precise details. We are not cartographers.
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 17
MUSEUM MAGIC By Joseph Govednik Cowlitz County Historical Museum Director
people+ place 2021 P+P Sponsor Partners
Museum Magic will return next issue.
THANK YOU to these community leaders for supporting excellent journalism while spotlighting worthy organizations and programs.
The Evans Kelly Family • Country Financial Weatherguard, Inc. • Paul W. Thompson • Clatskanie PUD Fibre Federal Credit Union • Cathlamet Realty West All-Out Sewer & Drain Services • Joe Fischer
BOX HOSTS INVITED
For information about joining the P+P Partners Circle, Ned Piper, 360-749-2632 or Sue Piper, 360-749-1021.
call
Do you own or manage a high-traffic, visually-attractive commercial location? Do you feel an affinity with CRR and wish to partner with us by hosting a sidewalk box to provide your customers and clients the gift of CRR every month ?
Alex & Pete painting 16x24 inches acrylic on canvas by Joe Fischer
We have sidewalk boxes and inside racks available, and welcome additional distribution outlets. call Ned Piper: 360-749-2632.
Q
Honoring the Successful Lives and Legacy of Alona & Carl Forsberg
JOE FISCHER
UIPS & QUOTES
Selected by Debra Tweedy
Second-hand books are wild books, homeless books; they have come together in vast flocks of variegated feather and have a charm which the domesticated volumes of the library lack. Besides, in this random miscellaneous company, we may rub against some complete stranger who will, with luck, turn into the best friend we have in the world. ~Virginia Woolf, English writer, 18821941 Progress is never permanent, will always be threatened, must be redoubled, restated and reimagined if it is to survive. ~Zadie Smith, English writer, 1975Genius is the power of carrying the feelings of childhood into the powers of manhood. ~Samuel Taylor Coleridge, English poet, 1772-1834 The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little. ~Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President of the United States, 1882-1945
To be a human being among people and to remain one forever, no matter in what circumstances, not to grow despondent and not to lose heart—that’s what life is all about, that’s its task. ~Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Russian writer, 1821-1881 In ancient times, cats were worshiped as gods; they have not forgotten this. ~Terry Pratchett, English writer, 19482015
Proud Sponsor of People+Place
Join us on Labor Day for a fun afternoon!
We must all either wear out or rust out, every one of us. My choice is to wear out. ~Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, 1858-1919 I had the chance to make every possible mistake and figure out a way to recover from it. Once you realize there is life after mistakes, you gain a self-confidence that never goes away. --Bob Schieffer, American television journalist, 1937Dogs are wise. They crawl away into a quiet corner and lick their wounds and do not rejoin the world until they are whole once more. ~Agatha Christie, English writer, 1890-1976 Longview native Debra Tweedy has lived on four continents. She and her husband decided to return to her hometown and bought a house facing Lake Sacajawea.“We came back because of the Lake and the Longview Public Library,” she says.
18 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Fundraiser for the Clatskanie Arts Commission
FREE CONCERT SEASON KICKOFF
Big Band in the Park Monday, Sept. 6 Music 2–4pm
Clatskanie City Park
Proud sponsor of People+Place
Bring your own chair • Bleachers available Limited food available More info and season details, page 33
Please join us in supporting the important work of the • Pet Adoptions. Be on the lookout for our adoptable pets on Petfinder.com • Spay/Neuter and Vaccine Clinics
Please call to schedule (instead of regular walk-in clinics). Limit of one person per appointment due to Covid-19.
• Donations and Volunteers needed and appreciated!
• cowlitzhumane.com • 360-577-0151
Proud Sponsor of People+Place
A monthly feature written and photographed by Southwest Washington native and Emmy Award-winning journalist
Hal Calbom
Production Notes
people+ place Truckin’: Yvonne Krause
Harvest
“I got into the produce business through the back door,” she says.
Home I l o v e d g e t t i n g t o k n o w the indefatigable Yvonne Krause. She reminded me that farmers markets are ultimately about bringing the harvest home. My grandparents lived on adjacent streets — Fir and Field Streets in Longview — and shared an alley between them. I could walk in a minute from backyard to backyard. Those backyards were gardens, not grassy lawns. Mostly vegetables with a few flowery adornments around the edges, they were, above all, functional. Food for the family. There wasn’t a swing set, tetherball pole, or gas barbecue in sight. I knew both sets of grandparents had been raised on farms, so assumed this was family tradition. But I noticed most of the other houses had gardens off the alley, and other habits in common, too. The state of the garden became a kind of barometer for the state of life in general. The subject of the weather, rather than just superficial filler when you didn’t have anything more important to talk about, was a vital source of daily interest and conversation. Rain or shine, the gardeners worked hard to give each of their rows a fighting chance, and rooted them on, literally, from seedlings to supper table. Then there was canning. A kind of obsession, it seemed to a kid, often involving trips to a big steamy building full of boiling cauldrons and sweaty people. We schlepped crates home in the family station wagon or pickup to winter in our garages, pantries and basements.
Growing up in Vernonia, part country girl, Yvonne Krause raised a barnyard full of animals. Pigs were the favorites, hungry all the time. Yvonne began stopping by a nearby produce stand, gleaning any vegetables or fruits past their prime and headed for the compost pile out back. The owners of Jo’s Country Market — still a fixture in Clatskanie — took to the shy teenager and offered her a part time job. Yvonne grew up, bought Jo’s, and sells seasonal produce there today. What’s more, she anchors a sophisticated network of growers, truckers, and marketers stretching up and down the river. Logging thousands of miles on country roads, loading hundreds of pounds of fresh produce, displaying dozens of varieties on the grass, under a tent — their common destination is the local farmer’s market. I think it’s even more American than apple pie. After all — no market, no apples. No apples, no pie.
NICE TO MEET YOU Yvonne Krause resides
Clatskanie, Oregon occupation
Behind-the-Wheel Trainer and Dispatcher; Owner, Jo’s Country Market from
Vernonia, Oregon
known for
Being a bus driver and a
“hugger” reading
Stephen King, usually
Spending time with family and in the Nehalem River
for fun
Going to outdoor concerts, walking in the early morning
recommends
HC: What’s the attraction of a farmers market? YK: I think the fact that everything is so fresh. People can taste the difference. And the produce keeps so much longer. cont page 20
My more generous older soul realizes these were generational rituals, yes, but also testaments to survival. Raised through The Depression, that generation husbanded (and wived) its food like money. They fed their children not just from the market or corner store, but from their own back yards, root cellars, tin cans, and Mason jars. ••• Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 19
People +
from page 19
HC: So how fresh is fresh, farm to market?
“ It’s an outing. Babies, grandparents, strollers and w
YK: Well, 90 per cent of the stuff I have I can probably tell you the day it was picked. And some of the produce, like vine-ripened melons from Hermiston, they make a big deal about getting those things out to us as soon after picking as possible. A lot of stuff I bring in on Saturdays will be picked the day before. And if it’s that fresh on Saturday, it’s going to last at least a week on your shelf. HC: There seems to be a lot more in the air at a farmers market than just fresh produce? Kind of a county fair feel, too? YK: People are like old friends. This is a perfect gathering place. I probably know half my customers by name. It’s a place to be around other people in a casual, friendly way, I guess. And so many of them come with friends or relatives. It’s an outing. Babies, grandparents, strollers and wheelchairs. HC: You have barely had a minute away from that cash box. YK: Business is good. It’s the season. HC: How many varieties do you have for sale each week? YK: Probably about 50. And there are varieties within varieties. They say there are 2,500 varieties of peaches alone! HC: Wow. How do you keep track of it all? YK: Well, I was nervous when I got started in the business. That I wouldn’t know enough. I used to hide in the cooler a lot. But I also learn a lot from my customers. People love to trade recipes and tips and the best way to eat something fresh. Or a new variety or farm.
Local families enjoy outings to the market, often featuring live music. Top left: Laurie Kochis, Cowlitz Community Farmers Market manager, is excited about a new Washington State program in which an EBT swipe of $40 is matched with an additional $40 in tokens to spend at the market.
H C : Yo u h a v e a very specific role within this community. And you’re not a “truck farmer?” YK: I’ve heard that term. But no, I’m a trucker. My
People+ Place goes to market.
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wheelchairs.”
~Yvonne Krause
husband and I own a trucking company, and our place in the market is to try to fill in the gaps when produce might not be available from local growers. HC: So you’re road warriors? YK: Yes, in a way. We keep track of what’s ripening, and what’s available, and then we work our contacts in the community of growers to bring those things home to market. These cantaloupe, for instance, just ripened and were picked in Hermiston and I put them on the truck yesterday. HC: So you supplement where there’s a shortage? YK: Yes, a local shortage. We don’t want to lose the farm-tomarket local farmer and grower connection. Otherwise people could bring in produce from wherever. That’s what chain stores and supermarkets do. We still believe local is fresher and best. And if it’s not available within 20 miles I drive to Yakima or Richland or Boardman to get it. HC: So you’re still “local” in a sense — the asparagus doesn’t come from Peru? YK: Right. And I’m working on behalf of the Market community and our customers to get what we need but still buying as local as we can get. Truck farms were kind of an extension of the old family garden you had at your own house. But you couldn’t raise everything, and the truck farmer at the market filled in the gaps, with fresh produce from out of town. Yvonne’s is a busy, busy life. Up early to drive halfway across the state to pick up produce from growers. Loading and unloading at the markets, setting up the tents and tables, marking prices and making change. The day we interviewed her she was leaving in an hour to begin cutting hay — on her own land and that of some nearby relatives — to support the 40 head of beef cattle she and her husband raise on their farm. How much hay? I asked. “Oh, probably about a thousand bales,” she replied, matter-of-factly. My back aching just thinking about these two gigs, I asked her about her “day job.”
HC: You strike me as quite a people person for somebody who once hid in the cooler. YK: That was just me being young, I guess.
YK: I work in transportation, at the bus garage, for the Clatskanie School District.
HC: What about the craftspeople in the market, and the non-food vendors?
HC: : And that’s part time, I assume?
YK: We have some craft people here — it adds variety to the market, but the board determines who can participate. We don’t have jewelry here, for instance, like they do in Astoria. But we’ve got a gal who does knitting, and I’m sure you’ve seen the woman who makes artisan chocolates.
YK: No, full time, 40 hours a week. I get July off. I’ve been driving a school bus for about 31 years. And I train drivers to get their CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) in this district, and also for Knappa and Jewell Districts, as well.
HC: What are the terms and conditions?
HC: As if you needed any more to do… YK: No, I love it. I really enjoy working with my fellow employees. Training is a lot of fun, I get a lot of joy out of it. And there’s more than just driving — I teach all the classroom classes for the CDL and also CPR, first aid — everything you need to get behind the wheel and transport the world’s most precious cargo.
Join us in supporting our historic Columbia theatre for the Performing Arts We appreciate the enrichment and enjoyment this community treasure offers to us all. NEWS! 2021-2022 Season opens Sept. 17 with Pink Martini! See pages 17, 33.
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families
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YK: Well, everybody has to be approved. People pay to rent their spaces, and then pay a commission back to the market board to keep the whole thing running and cont page 22
Celebrating a Life Well-lived Paul W. Thompson CRR’s Man in the Kitchen Emeritus
Nov. 25, 1940 – July 28, 2021 Proud Sponsor of People+Place At left: Paul, walking with Perry Piper and Ned Piper in Luxembourg Gardens, Paris. Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 21
People + Place from page 21
pay overhead. It’s not a lot of money — $15 for a single spot and $25 for two spots — and then 5 percent goes back to the association.
HC: So, I can’t resist asking you the desert island question. If you could only have three things from the market, what would they be?
HC: Which is a not-for-profit, cooperative thing, I assume?
YK: Well, it would have to be Crawford’s strawberries — with some cream of course. Does that count as one or two?
YK: Very much so, The Cowlitz Community Farmers Market.
HC: One.
HC: Do you sell in bulk or mostly piece by piece?
YK: They’re a local grower and they’re to die for. And probably nectarines. I like them better than
YK: Both, we get a surprising amount of people who buy produce for canning.
peaches. I will eat a peach — but only it it’s peeled. I love dried or canned peaches. HC: And your final choice? YK: Probably ... green beans. HC: That’s not very exotic. YK: Well, they’re the entree and the nectarines and berries are the dessert! •••
HC: I thought that was a lost art? YK: No, I think it’s part of the back-to-the-land, buy and eat local movement. And a way to enjoy all this good food year round. I’ve been canning since high school, and I’ve canned about everything. And I get a lot of advance orders for peaches or green beans by the case. Beets by the bag. Pickling cucumbers. HC: Do you help people who might be experimenting or doing this for the first time? YK: Oh yes. They remember their grandma’s canning and want to try it. I’ve got a pretty good knowledge of how much goes into a jar, or how many pounds you need to get a certain number of jars. And it kind of died out but now people are picking it up again.
Yvonne Krause owns and operates Jo’s Country Market, located at 300 E. Columbia Highway (Highway 30) in Clatskanie, and sells fresh produce every day.
HC: Is this more “boutique” canning than surviving-the-winter canning? YK: Oh, yes. People will come in with seven or eight jars. It’s like a craft, something homemade. When I was canning regularly I’d do 200 pounds of tomatoes. I always figured if we had 100 jars of vegetables going into the winter we were in good. I just froze 90 pounds of blueberries. And I’ve still got my grandma’s canning book and all her notes. And that’s fun. She made catsup, spaghetti sauce. I’ve made spaghetti sauce a few times and would not recommend it — it’s a pretty laborious process. HC: I see you in a lot of conversations, not just transactions. YK: Oh, yeah. I tell everybody that works for me, you have to be able to talk to people because a lot of people just come to talk and visit. They want to talk about the apple they’re buying, or it’s just their time to get out, to come out and visit. I have customers that have come here forever.
Hal Calbom is editor of The Tidewater Reach, and Dispatches from the Discovery Trail published by CRRPress. Now in his fourth
year producing CRR’s People+Place feature series, he has also written Resourceful: Leadership and Communication in a Relationship Age. Hal grew up in Longview, now lives in Seattle, and may be reached at hal@ halcalbom.com. Editor’s note: Interviews are edited for length and clarity. For local Farmers Market listings, see page 35. 22 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
people + place
Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton. Started the dinosaur phenomenon.
Yvonne Krause’s Favorite Books
Internal Medicine & Preventative Care Open Every Day for Your Convenience Holidays & Weekends Included
INTRODUCING
Dare to Lead: Brave Work, Tough Conversations, Whole Hearts by Brené Brown. Lessons to live and work by.
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Green Lights by Matthew McConaughey. He’s more than just a hunk. Richard A. Kirkpatrick, M.D., FACP
Kyle Wicks BS, MSPA, PA-C
The Eyes of the Dragon by Stephen King. One of the horror master’s best.
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway. My favorite by this master.
It’s Always Something by Gilda Radner. The remarkable Gilda’s life was too short.
Brooke Wethington, Rachel Roylance, BS, MPAS, PA-C BS, MPAP, PA-C
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IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!
Call an ad rep: Ad Manager: Ned Piper, 360-749-2632: All areas. Sue Lane 360-261-0658 Downtown Longview Ron Baldwin 503-791-7985: Wahkiakum, Pacific, Clatsop
Counties, Mouth of the Columbia.
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24 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
360.751.0411
Where do you read
Into the military
THE READER?
Ty l e r Tr o n n e s , R.A.Long High School 2021 graduate, with his dad, Steve Tronnes, in Portland on June 28, 2021 at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station). The picture was taken moments after Tyler took The Oath to Defend The Constitution and was one of Tyler’s last actions with his dad before leaving for Naval Boot Camp in Illinois in support and service to our great nation.
In the tropics Rod & Karen H a r d i n g , o f Rainier, Oregon, a n d S a n d y & Ken Kramer, of Shelton, Wash., in May at the Botanical gardens in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Barbara Linssen’s feet As she reads the Reader on the dock in the Multnomah Channel. “Pleased to find such a lovely local paper!” she wrote. The Linssen home is in NE Portland but they are enjoying rehabbing a houseboat at Rocky Point Marina near Scappoose, Ore.
WHERE DO YOU READ THE READER?
The Pentas in Paris Vince and Karen Penta, of Longview, Wash., at the Petite Palais (top) and at the Top of Montmartre at the steps of Sacré-Coeur (left) in Paris, late July.
Send your photo reading the Reader (high-res JPEG) to Publisher@CRReader. com. Include names and cities of residence. We make it a practice to promptly acknowledge photos received; if you don’t hear from us within 5 days, please re-send. For cell phone photo, choose the largest file size up to 2 MB.
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 25
COLUMBIA RIVER
Clatskanie, Ore. Fultano’s Pizza 770 E. Columbia River Hwy Family style with unique pizza offerings, hot grill items & more! Dine-in,Take-out and Home Delivery. Visit Fultanos.com for streamlined menu. 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. Dine-in, curbside pickup. M-Th 11am–9:30pm; Fri & Sat 11am–11:30pm; Sun 11am–9pm. 503-728-3344
Rainier. Ore. Alston Pub & Grub
25196 Alston Rd., Rainier 503-556-9753 11 beers on tap, cocktails. Open daily 11–11. Inside dining. Conestoga Pub Cornerstone Café 102 East “A” Street Microbrews, wines & spirits 7am–8pm Daily. Inside dining.
dining guide
Longview, Wash.
1335 14th Avenue 18 rotating craft brews, pub fare. M-Th 11am–8pm. Fri-Sat 11am–10pm; Sunday 11am–6pm. Local music coming soon. 360-232-8283. Inside dining See ad, page 27. Follow us on Untappd.
The Carriage Restaurant & Lounge
The Carriage Restaurant & Lounge 1334 12th Ave. Open 9am–11pm. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, banquet room available for groups, parties, family reunions, etc. in lounge, open 6am. Three happy hours daily (8–10am, 12–2pm, 5–7pm). Group meeting room, free use with $150 food/drink purchases. 360-425-8545.
0-442-8234. Creekside Café 1323 Commerce Ave. Soups, Salads, Burgers, Wraps. Closed temporarily for renovations. Re-opening mid-Sept. 360-425-7296. www.creeksidecafe.restaurant
Sunshine Pizza & Catering 2124 Columbia Blvd. Hot pizza, cool salad bar. Beer & wine. Limited inside seating, curbside pickup and delivery. 503-397-3211 See ad, page 6. Jay’s Jukebox Burgers, 1232 Commerce Ave.. 1950s Soda shop. Take-out and limited dine-in. Open Tues–Sat, 11–7. Phone 360-261-7879
The Original Pietrio’s Pizzeria
614 Commerce Ave., Longview. 18 varieties of pizza, prepared salads. Beer & wine. Open 11am every day. Inside seating, outdoor dining. 360-353-3512. Inside dining, Take-out, some local delivery.
Evergreen Pub & Café
115-117 East 1st Street 503-556-9935 Burgers, halibut, appetizers, full bar. 11–11 Daily. Inside dining.
In the Merk (1339 Commerce Ave., #113) 360-998-2139. Mon-Fri 8am–4pm. Specialty coffees, teas, bubble teas and pastries....drinks with a smile. Takeout and on-site.
Scappoose, Ore. Fultano’s Pizza 51511 SE 2nd. Family style with unique pizza offerings, hot grill items & more! “Best pizza around!” Sun–Th 11am–9pm; Fri-Sat 11am–10pm. Full bar service ‘til 10pm Fri & Sat. Deliveries in Scappoose. 503-543-5100. Inside Dining.
Ixtapa Fine Mexican Restaurant
Porky’s Public House 561 Industrial Way, Longview 38 draft beers. Full bar. Family-friendly. Dining room open. Take-out. Curbside delivery; partner with Delivery King for deliveries. Live music suspended due to Covid. 360-636-1616.
Roland Wines
Eclipse Café
St. Helens, Ore.
1106 Florida St., Longview. Authentic Italian wood-fired pizza, wine, and beer. Casual ambience. 5–9pm Wed-Fri, Sat. 11–3. See ad, page 34. Call for status.
Castle Rock, Wash.
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. Curbside pickup and home delivery. 503-543-3017
Warren, Ore. Warren Country Inn 56575 Columbia River Hwy. Fine family dining. Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Full bar. Call for hours.503-410-5479. Check Facebook for updates. Dine-in.
Toutle, Wash. DREW’S GROCERY & SERVICE
5304 Spirit Lake Hwy (10 miles from Exit 49. Picnics on site or to go, full deli, fried chicken, Skipper’s chowder, fish, shrimp. See ad, page 14.
Goble Tavern
70255 Columbia River Hwy. (Milepost 31, Hwy. 30) Food, beer & wine + full bar, Live entertainment 11–11 Daily. Inside dining. 503-556-4090
Freddy’s Just for the Halibut. Cod, Alaskan halibut fish and chips, award-winning clam chowder. Burgers, steaks, pasta. Beer and wine. M-Sat 10am–8pm, Sunday 11am–8pm. Inside dining, Drive-thru, outdoor seating. 1110 Commerce 360-414-3288. See ad, page 8.
Luigi’s Pizza
117 East 1st Street, Rainier 503-556-4213 Inside dining, Take-out & Delivery
Pizza, spaghetti, burgers, beer & wine. 11–9, Mon-Thurs, Sun; 11–10 Fri-Sat
Restaurant operators: To advertise in Columbia River Dining Guide, call 360-749-2632
Hop N Grape
924 15th Ave., Longview Tues–Thurs 11am–7pm; Fri & Sat 11am– 8pm. BBQ meat slow-cooked on site. Pulled pork, chicken, brisket, ribs, turkey, salmon. World-famous mac & cheese. 360-577-1541.
Grant’s at the Monticello Hotel on Longview’s
historic Civic Circle. Casual upscale inside dining, patio dining. Seafood, steaks, pasta, burgers. Happy Hour specials 3pm. Lunch & dinner. M-Th 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-10.
26 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Parker’s Steak House & Brewery 1300 Mt. St. Helens Way. I-5 Exit 49. Lunch, Dinner. Burgers, hand-cut steak; seafood and pasta. Restaurant opens 11am, Lounge 12 Noon. Closed Monday. 360-967-2333. Call for status/options.
Vault Books & Brew 20 Cowlitz Street West, Castle Rock Coffee and specialty drinks, quick eats & sweet treats. See ad, page 29.
Kalama, Wash.
215 N. Hendrickson Dr., Port of Kalama. A Northwest pub and unique bars serving breakfast, lunch & dinner daily. Info & reservations, bar hours at mcmenamins.com. 8am–midnight daily. 360- 673-9210. Indoor dining, covered outdoor seating, curbside take-out.
Fire Mountain Grill
Mile 19, 9440 Spirit Lake Highway. Newly remodeled. Burgers, steaks, seafood, homemade cobblers. Riverside dining. 360-2745217. Open Mon-Thurs 11:30–5; Fri-Sat 11:30–7; Sun 11`:30–5.
Woodland, Wash. “SoCo” 1350 Atlantic Ave. Rotating craft brews, pub fare. Open M-Th 11am–6pm; Fri–Sat 11am–10pm; Sunday 11am–6pm. 360-841-8941. See ad, page 27.
L
uckman
Coffee Company 1230 Lewis River Rd. Small batch on-site roasted coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside seating. M-F 5:30am–6pm, Sat 6am–5pm, Sun 7am–3pm. See ad, page 12.
Roland on Wine
Tending vineyards
COLUMBIA RIVER DINING GUIDE
Armchair winemakers’ fading romance... and a new Southwest Washington AVA?
I
got a strange call recently from a distressed women who had just bought a new home on 10 acres in Battleground. I have no idea how she got my number—probably because of my famous column in the CRReader! Nonetheless she explained to me that there was an overgrown vineyard on her property.
As Covid-19 restrictions ease, restaurants’ operations may still fluctuate. Mask guidelines and indoor/outdoor, seating/ occupancy limits may vary. Call first if in doubt. Please support local restaurants — they are vital in the economic and social life of our community!
By Marc Roland
It was refreshing to realize she was sincerely concerned about the health and future of the vines, an environmentalist perhaps, or just an earth friendly sort. It really took me by surprise because what’s the big deal? It’s just grape vines. Deal with it. After several conversations, however, I realized that maybe she was right. Let’s find out about the origin and history of this hidden garden. Now you have to realize I have some experience in tending a vineyard.
Some may remember Henry Paul whose eponymous restaurant was well loved in the community. Henry loved food and wine. He believed good food should be paired with good wine—thus he had a wine cellar full of high quality wine to share with those who cared about that sort of thing. He also had a vineyard at his home. When Henry passed away, his family was faced with the daunting task of caring for the vineyard. In a few years, his widow asked some of us who belonged to a hobbyist winemaking group if we would be willing to help out, to which we all said enthusiastically, yes. It was important to us that the work of this visionary pioneer be carried on. And, truthfully, the idea of free or inexpensive grapes was tempting. The romance didn’t take long to fade. The truth is, it was a lot of work!
Attention landowners
WE BUY CEDAR AND NOBLE BRANCHES
So after a few years, one by one we slowly dropped out — realizing the work is unrelenting — and, as armchair winemakers, lost interest real soon. Back to the story: The conversations with this well-meaning woman started to sound familiar to me, and caution began to creep into my head. Come clean up this vineyard and maybe you can get some cheap grapes. I’m not sure if this an accurate depiction of her motives, but my past experience definitely came in to play. Don’t get me wrong, I would love a vineyard of my own, but only if my labor and toil would benefit our winery and future generations of Rolands, not to mention being able to afford the labor. But this isn’t the end of the story. My good sense of how this find in Battleground may have some significance beyond my self-interestled me to refer the lady to Roger Razabek who is doing research into the history of grape growing in Southwest Washington. Fortuitously, I had just joined the Southwest Washington Winery Association and started to become interested in our region as an important and unique viniculture area. The association is, in fact, working on getting recognition by the federal government as a distinct AVA, based on history and geographic characteristics. What we do know is many of the soils are deep alluvial Hesson clay-loam brought into the area thousands of years ago by the floods from glacial Lake Missoula. The cool moist winter climate and warm, sunny summers make ideal growing conditions for cool-climate, premium wine grapes, such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, among others. We also know that grape growing in this region may have been some of the first in Washington. Wouldn’t that be ironic?
The season is on! We do all the work. Minimum of 10 trees. Call now for appointments
I hope we find out more about this vineyard, and you will be the first to know.
360-751-0120 or 360-430-8510
Longview resident and former Kelso teacher Marc Roland started making wine in 2008 in his garage. He and his wife, Nancy, now operate Roland Wines at 1106 Florida Street in Longview’s new “barrel district.” For wine tasting hours, call 360-8467304.
Jaime Tovar
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Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 27
BESIDES COLUMBIA RIVER READER...
What are you reading?
ATTENTION, READERS
Read a good book lately? To be mini-interviewed by CRR Book Reviewer Alan Rose for a future “What Are You Reading?” spotlight, please contact him at alan@alanrose.com or the publisher/editor at publisher@ crreader.com.
WordFest resumes on Zoom!
2nd Tuesdays, 7–8pm. No need for a Zoom account, but register at www. alan-rose.com to receive invitation link via email.
Experience the Best. Experience Cascade Title.
Alison Peters Escrow Officer / LPO
1425 Maple Street Longview, WA 98632 360.425.2950 www.cascade-title.com
Celinda Northrup Escrow Officer / LPO
Diane Keeneway Escrow Closer / Assistant
Consistent, Courteous and Complete Title and Escrow Services
28 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Monthly feature coordinated by Alan Rose
While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams By Jan Bono
T
his was not a book I would normally pick up, and I didn’t. It was a gift from a friend who knew Stacey Abrams is one of my heroes. “Just try it,” he replied to my skeptical expression as I unwrapped his gift. And so I tried it. And what do you know? This political thriller had me hooked at the first hint of “Could this actually happen?” and my mystery-loving mind kicked into overdrive. When imagination dances as close to reality as Abrams’s does, it’s hard to put the book down, and I found myself canceling social events to have more time to read. A U.S. Supreme Court Justice, in failing health and the swing vote on an upcoming landmark decision involving an international merger of two controversial pharmaceutical developers, places himself in a medically induced coma, thereby keeping his seat on the court from being filled by a President he despises in the event the Justice suddenly dies.
The Justice’s young, chess-playing clerk is then compelled, by legal decree designating her as his Power of Attorney, to figure out, through the clues he’s left, just what and who is behind blocking the merger of the companies whose combined research might cure many genetic diseases, one of which the Justice and his son both suffer from. For this light, mainstream mystery reader, the book was a challenge to power through. Yet, despite having to strain my brain to figure out who the bad guys were and hoping the good guys would stop getting bumped off, I loved and highly recommend it to you. “Just try it.” ••• Long Beach resident Jan Bono is the author of the 6-book S y l v i a Av e r y Cozy Mystery series set on the S.W. Washington coast. www. JanBonoBooks. com.
Cover to Cover
Top 10 Bestsellers PAPERBACK FICTION 1. The House in the Cerulean Sea TJ Klune, Tor, $18.99 2. People We Meet on Vacation Emily Henry, Berkley, $16 3. Circe Madeline Miller, Back Bay, $16.99 4. The Song of Achilles Madeline Miller, Ecco, $16.99 5. The Night Watchman Louise Erdrich, Harper Perennial, $18 6. On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous Ocean Vuong, Penguin, $17 7. Hamnet Maggie O’Farrell, Vintage, $16.95 8. Mexican Gothic Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Del Rey, $17 9. Where the Crawdads Sing Delia Owens, Putnam, $18 10. The Overstory Richard Powers, Norton, $18.95
PAPERBACK NON-FICTION
HARDCOVER FICTION
1. Braiding Sweetgrass Robin Wall Kimmerer, Milkweed Editions, $18 2. The Body Keeps the Score Bessel van der Kolk, M.D., Penguin, $19 3. Entangled Life Merlin Sheldrake, Random House, $18 4. Agent Sonya: The Spy Next Door Ben Macintyre, Crown, $18 5. All We Can Save Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Katharine K. Wilkinson (Eds.), One World, $18 6. The Body Bill Bryson, Anchor, $17 7. Vesper Flights Helen Macdonald, Grove Press, $17 8. Sapiens Yuval Noah Harari, Harper Perennial, $24.99 9. One Long River of Song Brian Doyle, Back Bay, $17.99 10. Astoria Peter Stark, Ecco, $16.99
1. The Midnight Library Matt Haig, Viking, $26 2. Project Hail Mary Andy Weir, Ballantine, $28.99 3. Klara and the Sun Kazuo Ishiguro, Knopf, $28 4. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue V.E. Schwab, Tor, $26.99 5. The Hill We Climb Amanda Gorman, Viking, $15.99 6. The Vanishing Half Brit Bennett, Riverhead Books, $27 7. Malibu Rising Taylor Jenkins Reid, Ballantine, $28 8. The Cellist Daniel Silva, Harper, $28.99 9. The Paper Palace Miranda Cowley Heller, Riverhead Books, $27 10. Goldenrod: Poems Maggie Smith, Atria/One Signal Publishers, $20
BOOK REVIEW By Alan Rose The Midnight Library Matt Haig Viking $26 Hard cover
“Between life and death there is a library,” she said. “And within that library, the shelves go on for ever. Every book provides a chance to try another life you could have lived. To see how things would be if you had made other choices…” Who hasn’t wondered what their life would be like…if only they hadn’t said no, but yes; if they’d taken that enticing job with its risks; if they had married Y instead of X, or hadn’t
Alan’s haunting novel of the AIDS epidemic, As If Death Summoned, won the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award ( LGBT category.) He can be reached at www. alan-rose.com.
HARDCOVER NON-FICTION 1. I Alone Can Fix It Carol Leonnig, Philip Rucker, Penguin Press, $30 2. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse Charlie Mackesy, HarperOne, $22.99 3. This Is Your Mind on Plants Michael Pollan, Penguin Press, $28 4. Crying in H Mart Michelle Zauner, Knopf, $26.95 5. Finding the Mother Tree Suzanne Simard, Knopf, $28.95 6. World Travel Anthony Bourdain, Laurie Woolever, Ecco, $35 7. Facing the Mountain Daniel James Brown, Viking, $30 8. Caste Isabel Wilkerson, Random House, $32 9. The Anthropocene Reviewed John Green, Dutton, $28 10. The Comfort Book Matt Haig, Penguin Life, $22
Brought to you by Book Sense and Pacific Northwest Booksellers Assn, for week ending August 1, 2021, 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 EARLY & MIDDLE GRADE READERS 1. Dune 1. A Wolf Called Wander Frank Herbert, Ace, $10.99 Rosanne Parry, Greenwillow Books, 2. Dune Messiah $7.99 Frank Herbert, Ace, $9.99 2. Cat Kid Comic Club 3. Good Omens Dav Pilkey, Graphix, $12.99 Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, 3. Drama Morrow, $9.99 Raina Telgemeier, Graphix, $10.99 4. Foundation 4. Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Isaac Asimov, Spectra, $7.99 Friendly Spooky Stories 5. 1984 Jeff Kinney, Abrams, $14.99 George Orwell, Signet, $9.99 5. The Girl Who Drank the Moon 6. The Way of Kings Kelly Barnhill, Algonquin Young Brandon Sanderson, Tor, $9.99 Readers, $9.95 7. The Hitchhiker’s Guide 6. A Whale of the Wild to the Galaxy Rosanne Parry, Greenwillow Books, Douglas Adams, Del Rey, $7.99 $17.99 8. Children of Dune 7. Ghosts Frank Herbert, Ace, $9.99 Raina Telgemeier, Graphix, $10.99 9. Once Upon a Time in 8. The Phantom Tollbooth Hollywood Norton Juster, Jules Feiffer (Illus.), Quentin Tarantino, Harper Yearling, $7.99 Perennial, $9.99 9. Clean Getaway 10. The Slow Regard of Nic Stone, Yearling, $7.99 Silent Things 10. The Wonders of Nature Patrick Rothfuss, DAW, $10.99 Ben Hoare, DK Children, $19.99
All the lives you haven’t lived (yet) married at all; if they had been more disciplined, or more daring, or more deserving… If your literary tastes lean toward the philosophical and the fantastical, you might look at The Midnight Library. Working off the idea of multiverses, and that we are living different lives simultaneously, it prompts the reader to ask which life would you prefer living if given the chance. Nora Seed’s life has hit rock bottom. She is depressed. “It’s not clinical. The doctor says it’s situational depression. It’s just that I keep on having new… situations.” Her life has become “a black hole. A dying star, collapsing in on itself.” “No one needed her. She was superfluous to the universe.” “She went on Instagram and saw everyone had worked out how to live, except her.”—This is probably not the best book to give to a depressed friend. Or maybe it is. Nora goes on to end her life (This is not advised) and finds herself in a vast library with Mrs. Elm, her school librarian who had guided and supported Nora when a child. Mrs. Elm now introduces her to this wondrous collection of books.
It is so easy, while trapped in just the one life, to imagine that times of sadness or tragedy or failure or fear are a result of that particular existence. That it is a by-product of living a certain way, rather than simply living. I mean, it would have made things a lot easier if we understood there was no way of living that can immunise you against sadness. And that sadness is intrinsically part of the fabric of happiness. You can’t have one without the other.
She finds that even the lives where she is tremendously successful contain crises, disappointments, and defeats. As Mrs. Elm explains, “You can choose choices but not outcomes.” This is a book of wisdom in narrative form, and like the fables, sagas, eddas, legends and myths through the millennia, attempts to teach us how to live the best life possible, in this or any universe. •••
~ from The Midnight Library “Every life contains many millions of decisions. Some big, some small. But every time one decision is taken over another, the outcomes differ. An irreversible variation occurs, which in turn leads to further variations. These books are portals to all the lives you could be living.” And Nora is off, exploring this library of her life, or lives. Not surprisingly, it’s not as simple as it seems (I want to check out only happy books, please.)
Drink Good Coffee, Read Good Books Located in the historic Castle Rock Bank Building 20 Cowlitz Street West Mon-Sat • 9–4 360-967-2299
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 29
Highlander Festival
Wee bit o’ Scotland arrives Sept. 11-12
T
o celebrate its Scottish roots, the town of Kelso — founded in 1884 by Scotland native Peter Crawford, who made a homestead land claim on the east bank of the Cowlitz River in 1847— hosts an extravaganza one special weekend every fall. This year, on September 12-13, men and women will again don kilts and play bagpipes, toss tree trunks and boulders (to prove who is strongest), and dance the Highland Fling in Kelso’s Tam O’ Shanter Park. There’s a Kids’ Fun Run/Walk 5K road race at 7am Saturday, followed by the 9am Highland dance competition, silent auction and opening of the Highland games. At 10am, the parade begins, along with a flower show. Opening Ceremonies are at 12:30, with the Parade of Clans on the field. Scottish food and craft vendors, and much more. On Sunday, join the Kirkin’ of the Tartan worship service at 8am at Tam O’Shanter Park, and again at 10am at the Kelso Methodist Presbyterian Church, 206 Cowlitz Way.
Roots in a raft race Kelso’s Highlander Festival began in 1962 as a summer event to replace the KonTiki raft races held on the Cowlitz River in earlier years. Ten years later, at the 1972 festival, a bagpipe band was featured, laying the groundwork for subsequent years. The Highland Games made their first appearance in 1976. Over the years, the Highlander Festival has expanded its features and grown in popularity, offering something for just about everyone.
Do you think you might be of Scottish heritage? Many of the Clan Tents have books with every name that can be traced back to Scotland. If you can’t find your name in one book, try another tent that has a bigger book! For more info and schedule of events, visit www.kelso.gov/ visitors/highlander-festival Also see Kelso Highlander Festival ad, page 34.
James Gorley, local athlete and Chieftan of Kelso’s 2013 Highland Games, competes in the Weight Throw, where a 42 to 56 pound metal ball on a chain is thrown like a discus.
Music both days Courtesy photo California’s ever-popular and Irish homelands. “We entertain Wicked Tinkers will perform, people with the real music of our combining the Australian didgeridoo regions,” they have said in interviews and Bronze Age Irish horn with and press releases. “We have an ancient bagpipes and tribal drums to achieve yet fresh musical story to tell.” their haunting, heart-pounding “Tribal Celtic” music. Strength, stamina and agility The Men of Worth plays traditional Scottish folk music The duo traces their music’s history to their Scottish
30 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
and agility of both men and women will be tested by throwing the Braemer Stone, Scottish hammers, and cabers (“telephone poles”). The heavyweight games begin at 9 am on both Saturday and Sunday.
If you’ve never watched the competition at the Highland Games, you are missing out! The strength, stamina, accuracy
Call before you go ! Have you lost anyone who passed before “getting around to” their Will? “I make house calls” THE LAW OFFICE OF
Vincent L. (Vince) Penta, P.S. 1561 11th Ave. Longview
360-423-7175
Art in the Park returns to Longview’s Civic Circle!
TAKE A
HIKE
T
Visit the Broadway Gallery booth to see the work of local artists from a local art gallery. Enter the drawing for free prizes. See you there…across from the Library on Saturday.
E= easier. usually on relatively flat ground (up to 5 miles and/or less than 500 ft. e.g., M=moderate, longer and more elevation gain (over 5 miles and/or over 500 ft. e.g.) S= strenuous—long hikes and/or elevation gain (over 8 miles and/or over 1200 ft. e.g.) (SS) – Snow Shoe (XC) – Cross Country Ski
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Due to the uncertainty of the pandemic, Please note the following: 1) All hikes will only take place if the hike leader feels it is safe to do so on that date. 2) Hiking groups may be limited at the discretion of the hike leader. 3) Make sure to call the hike leader for any further information or instruction. 4) Always be safe and protect yourself and be considerate of others during this pandemic. Watercolor by Beth Bailey
At Longview’s Civic Circle
August 14 - Saturday Elk Meadows (M)
Drive 240 miles RT Hike 6+ miles/ 1100 ft, e.g. on Trail #645 to an alpine meadow with spectacular views on the eastern side of Mt. Hood. Lunch in the meadow. America the Beautiful or NW Forest Pass is required for each vehicle! Leaders: Dory N. 213-820-1014 and Bruce M. 360-425-0256. August 18 - Wednesday Kalama Waterfront Park (E) (9am to 1pm) Drive 20 miles RT. Walk 3+ miles up and back on flat paved trail along the Columbia River. Leader: Art M. 360-270-9991.
223 NE 1st Street, Kalama 9–8 M-Sat, 10–7 Sun • 360-673-2200
Clatskanie Mini-Storage
August 21 - Saturday Squirrel Bridge Walk (E) Walk 4+ miles and visit 8 bridges that are in the air with a short talk about each bridge. This day is also Squirrelfest 2021. Leader: John 360-431-1122.
August 28 - Saturday McNeil Point (M/S) Drive 190 miles RT. Hike 10 miles/ 2000 ft. e.g. One of Mt. Hood’s most scenic alpine hikes. This hike is out and back, so more modest distance and elevations are options to enjoy a stunning trip. Leader: Pat 360- 225-7232 September 8 - Wednesday Lewis and Clark State Park (E/M) Drive 110 miles RT. Hike 4 miles/ 150 ft. e.g. through ancient old-growth forest. Leader: Bruce M. 360-425-0256.September 11 - Saturday Mt. Margaret (S) Drive 260 miles RT. Hike 11 miles/ 2400 ft. e.g. Stunning alpine scenery with views of Spirit and St. Helens Lakes. Leader: Bill D. 503-260-6712.
Benefiting our community library
Columbia City Celebration Saturday ~ September 18 • 9am–3pm A day of
fun
For the whole family ... at the Columbia City Elementary School field and play area.
“SHOW AND SHINE” CAR SHOW
• Traditional Strawberry Pancake Breakfast 8–10:30am, Columbia City Community Hall
• Lunch 11am–1pm • Book Sale (5,000, all topics) • Kid Zone Many different crafts om
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• Handmade Quilt Raffle
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Serving the Columbia River region, including Longview-Kelso.
503-366-9099 800-330-9099 201 S. 1st Street St. Helens OR wildcurrantcatering.com
Mt. St. Helens Club
This friendly club welcomes newcomers. For more info please call the hike leader or visit mtsthelensclub.org. RT(round trip) distances are from Longview. e.g.=elevation gain.
his popular event again takes place along with Squirrel Fest, Saturday, August 21, at the Longview Civic Circle. Hours are 9:00 to 5:00. Back are your favorite vendors and some new ones. Gifted artists and fine crafters will be showing their work for appreciation and for sale. Watercolor, acrylic, and oil paintings, pottery, scrimshaw, leather, wooden toys, photography, handmade soap, lampwork and jewelry make up just some of the wonderful work displayed. Original paintings on 6 X 6-inch canvases are offered at the Columbian Artists’ booth.
with
featuring a “Liberated Log Cabin Design” queen-size quilt crafted by Cathy Lundberg, our dedicated library director. All proceeds benefit the all-volunteer Columbia City Community Library, free to everyone living in Columbia County.
Columbia City School field. All vehicles welcome! Registration Fee $20. Dash Plaques & Awards. Info: Gordon, 503-396-5658; traxworks@yahoo.com
Columbia City is 2 miles north of St.Helens off Hwy 30. Columbia City Community Hall: 1850 2nd Street. Columbia City Grade School: 2000 2nd Street, Columbia City, Ore Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 31
Miss Manners
from page 6
GENTLE READER: Take out the words “birthday” and “party.” What you have created is a suggestion that people you know should pay to go to a public facility at the same time as you. Miss Manners is afraid that that does not qualify as an invitation. And it certainly does not solicit thoughts of adding a present. DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have completed a kitchen remodel after my house flooded. I had to do this on a budget because my insurance only paid a small amount.
I think it turned out beautifully. However, whenever guests come over, they comment about the remodel and offer suggestions for things that they wish I had done differently. If it was just one person, I would let it go, but it’s a continual problem, and it’s always a different suggestion. It’s not like there’s one huge eyesore they all point out; these are small things they mention, which are really matters of personal preference. I believe these people are well-meaning, but after everything I’ve been through, I am just so glad to be done with my remodel and moving on. Please help me with an appropriate response.
Where to find the new Reader
It’s delivered all around the River by the 15th of each month. Here’s the list of handy, regularly-refilled sidewalk box and rack locations where you can pick up a copy any time of day and even in your bathrobe:
LONGVIEW U.S. Bank Post Office Bob’s (rack, main check-out) In front of 1232 Commerce Ave In front of 1323 Commerce Ave YMCA Fred Meyer (rack, by service desk) Teri’s Grocery Outlet Fibre Fed’l CU - Commerce Ave Monticello Hotel (front entrance) Kaiser Permanente St. John Medical Center (rack, Park Lake Café) LCC Student Center Indie Way Diner Columbia River Reader Office 1333 14th Ave. KELSO Heritage Bank Visitors’ Center / Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce KALAMA Fibre Fed’l CU Kalama Shopping Center corner of First & Fir McMenamin’s Harbor Lodge WOODLAND Visitors’ Center Grocery Outlet Luckman Coffee Antidote (rack) CASTLE ROCK Lacie Rha’s Cafe (32 Cowlitz W.) Parker’s Restaurant (box, entry) Visitors’ Center 890 Huntington Ave. N., Exit 49, west side of I-5
RYDERWOOD Café porch TOUTLE Drew’s Grocery & Service
CLATSKANIE Post Office Chevron / MiniMart Fultano’s Pizza WESTPORT Berry Patch Wauna mill (parking lot) RAINIER Post Office Cornerstone Rainier Hardware (rack, entry) Earth ‘n’ Sun (on Hwy 30) El Tapatio (entry rack) Grocery Outlet DEER ISLAND Deer Island Store COLUMBIA CITY - Post Office WARREN Warren Country Inn ST HELENS Chamber of Commerce Sunshine Pizza St. Helens Market Fresh Olde Town: Wild Currant, Tap into Wine Safeway SCAPPOOSE To find the 24/7 Post Office pick-up point Road Runner nearest you, Fultano’s visit crreader.com and click “Find the Ace Hardware Magazine” tab. WARRENTON, OR Fred Meyer CATHLAMET Cathlamet Pharmacy Tsuga Gallery Cathlamet Realty West Puget Island Ferry Landing SKAMOKAWA Skamokawa General Store NASELLE Appelo Archives & Café Johnson’s One-Stop
32 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
GENTLE READER: “Oh! We never thought of a disco mirrored backsplash. But we were actually really pleased with how the remodel came out ...”— with enough of a pause afterwards, Miss Manners suggests, that the implied “I am sorry to hear that you think otherwise” remains implied. DEAR MISS MANNERS: A young couple two houses away announced this summer that they’re expecting twins. Although we’re not overly friendly, I did purchase two baby blankets. When I saw the husband recently coming out of his garage, I gave him the gift bag with the blankets, saying it was just a little gift to welcome the new arrivals. He thanked me, and I went back into my house. I’ve not heard a word since, nor received a thank-you note. It has me wondering if the husband went back into the garage and continued working on his project and forgot all about it.
agree to have cooperative meals — the key word here being “agree.” And although someone provides the venue, and someone organizes the food assignments, no one is really a host or a guest. It is true that hotels speak of “guests” when they mean “paying clients,” but it should still mean “someone who is entertained by a host” — a host being someone who arranges the occasion and provides whatever is necessary. It does not mean being asked to eat your own dinner at someone else’s house. And all that scrambling over the grill sounds like an unpleasant way to do so. ••• 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, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
I guess I’m wondering if, the next time I see the wife, I should casually mention it. Or should I just let it go? GENTLE READER: Mention it: “Did Joshua ever get those blankets to you? I am afraid that I ambushed him by your garage the other day, but we do so want to commemorate the twins’ birth.” Miss Manners feels certain that the next time you come to visit, your present will have been safely rescued from its hiding place underneath the car. DEAR MISS MANNERS: My family and I have once again been invited to an annual barbecue party at the hosts’ summer house. And once again, we have been instructed to bring our own food to be grilled, as well as a side dish to share. The hosts will supply paper goods and dessert. I can no longer take part in this travesty. This isn’t a party in the tradition that I know, where the hosts open up their home and provide the basics (food and drink). I can stay home and grill my own dinner, rather than share one grill with all the other guests trying to maneuver their own dogs and burgers. Do you agree that hosts shouldn’t have a party if they demand that guests bring their own food? GENTLE READER: It is the terminology that bothers Miss Manners. Families and friends may
Submission Guidelines Letters to the Editor (up to 200 words) relevant to the publication’s purpose — helping readers discover and enjoy the good life in the Columbia River region, at home and on the road — 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 will be considered for publication unless the writer specifies otherwise. Writer’s name and phone number must be included; anonymous submissions will not be considered. Political Endorsements CRR is a monthly publication serving readers in several towns, three counties, two states and beyond and does not publish Letters to the Editor that are endorsements or criticisms of political candidates or controversial issues. (Paid ad space is available.) Unsolicited submissions may be considered, provided they are consistent with the publication’s purpose. 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. Non-profit organizations and the arts, entertainment, educational and recreational opportunities and community cultural events will receive listing priority. Fundraisers must be sanctioned/sponsored by the benefiting non-profit organization. Businesses and organizations wishing to promote their particular products or services are invited to purchase advertising.
Outings & Events See ad, page 6
Find a unique gift! We have beautiful artisan cards, masks, jewelry, books by local authors, pottery, sculpture, photographs and so much more at your local Co-operative Fine Arts & Crafts Gallery.
BROADWAY GALLERY 1418 Commerce Avenue , Longview, Wash • Tu-Sat 11–4 Visit the Gallery or see new work on our website: the-broadwaygallery.com, at Broadway Gallery on Facebook, and broadway gallery_longview on Instagram.
Featured event/artists: August: Community Art Show, theme “A Place for Hope” September: Gallery member Kandyse Whitney, new jewelry, fused glass & paper art; and guest artist Kaye Barnett, pen & ink drawings & acrylic paintings
First Thursdays returning in September. Classes will return soon. Updates on our website: the-broadway-gallery.com Shop Local Saturday
Voted one of top 3 Galleries in Southwest Washington. Free Gift wrapping plus Layaway!
(4th Saturday each month)
to receive a free gift!
COLUMBIA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
2021-22 Season Pink Martini - Season Opener Sept. 17, 7:30pm
Winter Song Dec 18, 7:30pm
Ann Sweeten Oct 2, 7:30pm
Carl Wirkkala and The Whistle Punks Jan 29, 2022, 7:30pm
Catapult Oct 21, 7:30pm
LaRhonda Steele Feb 5, 7:30pm
Seattle Comedy Competition Nov 19, 7:30pm
Hyprov Mar 4, 7:30pm
Uh-Oh Here Comes Christmas Two performances: Dec 3, 7:30pm and Dec 4, 2pm
Michael Allen Harrison and Julianne Johnson April 2, 7:30pm 50 Years of Rock and Roll May 13, 7:30pm
For more information contact the Columbia Theatre Box Office at 360-575-8499. Or online at www.columbiatheatre.com. See photos, page 17.
GET YOUR TICKETS! HOW TO PUBLICIZE YOUR NON-PROFIT EVENT IN CRR Send your non-commercial community event info (name of event, beneficiary, sponsor, date & time, location, brief description and contact info) to publisher@crreader.com Or mail or hand-deliver (in person or via mail slot) to: Columbia River Reader 1333-14th Ave Longview, WA 98632
Submission Deadlines Events occurring: Sept 15 – Oct. 20: by Aug 25 for Sept 15 issue Oct 15 – Nov 30: by Sept 25 for Oct 15 issue. Calendar submissions are considered for inclusion, subject to lead time, relevance to readers, and space limitations. See Submission Guidelines, at left.
SquirrelFest Aug. 21, RALong Park, Longview Civic Circle. Food, crafts, entertainers, kids’ activities. See Squirrel Bridge story, page 15; ad, page 40. Veteran Benefit Car Show & Fundraiser Aug 21, 9–3, at Safeway on Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview. Raffles, trophies, T-shirts Summer Soiree to benefit acquisition of permanent Chihuly art at the Longview Public Library. Sat., Aug. 28, 5–8 pm, at a Columbia Rive chateau. Outdoor venue with live music, hors d’oeurves, and special memento. RSVP with $60 payment at www.cowlitzart.org or mail check payable to ART, PO Box 1065, Longview, WA 98632. Once payment is received, location details will be provided. Questions: email cowlitzart@gmail.com. Farm to Fiber Festival Sept. 9–12, Wahkiakum County Fairgrounds. Event to bring together fiber enthusiasts, kids, animal breeders for education, sales, competition. Info 360-703-7291 or lrcagle@gmail.com. Info & schedule www.wahkiakumfair.org Fall Swap Meet & Train Show Sat, Sept 11, 10–3. Presented by Longview, Kelso & Rainier Model Railroad Club. O , HO, N scales. Gen’l admission $5, under 12 free with paid adult. Three Rivers Mall, Kelso, Wash. I-5 Exit 39, Vendor or other info: Rich, 360-431-5790, email Kmann_98632@Yahoo.com. On Facebook: lkrtrains.yolasite.com Kelso Highlander Festival Sept. 11-12. Tam o’Shanter Park, Kelso, Wash. See ad, page 34, story, page 30. Ryderwood’s Arts & Crafts Fair, Oct 22 & 23, 10-4. Annual event since 2004, intended for producers of fine line of handcrafted items. Vendor applications: email RyderwoodEvents@yahoo.com or call Maria, 360-214-0455. First come
CLATSKANIE ARTS COMMISSION
2021-22 Season Big Band in the Park Mon, Sept 6, 2-4pm in Clatskanie City Park. Free. Fernhill Bluegrass Band with the Bloomer Family Sun, Sept 19, 3pm. www.fernhillbluegrass.com Fern Hill approaches its bluegrass music in the style of the classic bands of the 1950s. This special attention to detail results in an instantly identifiable rhythmic sound that both devotees and newcomers to the music will love. Violinist Aaron Meyers Sat, Oct 2, 7:30pm. www.aaronmeyer.com Audiences are truly mesmerized by Aaron’s unique stage presence blended with awe-inspiring virtuosic performances. He immediately engages his fans, displaying an affinity for the violin in a seemingly effortless mastery of the instrument.
info: clatskaniearts.org
Men of Worth Celtic Christmas Sun, Dec 12, 3pm. www.menofworth.com In 1986, Scotsman Donnie Macdonald and Irishman James Keigher came together to perform Irish and Scottish folk music, combining traditional and contemporary styles. They will be joined by Kevin Carr on fiddle/pipes and Maureen Brennan on harp. Kelsey Wilson O’Brien will be their dancer. Sundae and Mr. Goessl Sun, Mar 20, 2022 3pm. sundaeandmrgoessl.com This Washington State-based duo has been storming the country with their delightful brand of countrified jazz, melding the likability of Americana, pop and country music, and giving it a hybrid of jazz rhythms that will illuminate any music lover’s hankering.
first served! The two large rooms in the Community Hall (305 Morse St) can accommodate about 30 vendors. $35 for each 6-ft space for 2 days and includes one table. The Fair includes “Grandma’s Kitchen,” RWCS Bake Sale in the kitchen of Community Hall and Lunch served at the Cafe across the street.Ryderwood, the “Village in the Wood,” is located 9 scenic miles west of I-5 Exit #59, at the end of SR 506.
SUMMER CONCERTS Woodland Hot Summer Nights, Fridays 6pm
Horseshoe Lake, Aug 20, 27. St. Helens 13 Nights on the River, Thursdays, 6-8:30pm
Columbia View Ampitheatre Thurs, 6-8pm Aug 20 Hit Machine, dance Aug 26 Curtis Salgado, blues
Mt. St. Helens Club
HIKES
Schedule, page 31
Cowlitz County Historical Museum First Thursday Program via Zoom. Sept 2, 7pm. The Vietnam War is seen by much of the Western world as being fought between the Americans and North Vietnamese Communists, with the South Vietnamese largely absent. Yet many Vietnamese refugees who came to America after the war served in the South Vietnamese military, and there is little recognition and understanding of their contributions and role in the war. In fact, in American and Vietnamese Communist histories, the South Vietnamese are painted as corrupt, apathetic sidekicks to the Americans. How did the South Vietnamese military really experience the Vietnam War? Historian Julie Pham draws from interviews with 40 South Vietnamese military veterans in the United States, and illuminates how people can remember historical events differently. Sponsored by Humanities Washington Speaker’s Bureau. FREE to the public. Registration required to access Zoom login. Visit: humanities.org
Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 33
Northwest Gardening
Adapting to dry summers
Recent heat waves inspire new thinking By Alice Slusher
T
hat three-day “visit to hell” heat wave with temps in the triple digits in June — and another one predicted at press time — has made me rethink the current plants I’ve got OPEN D A ILY
Jo’s
Country Market
What’s Good in Season
Apples, Berries, Melons, Cantaloupe, Tomatoes, Cannig Peaches, Pickles, Local Jams & Jellies, Raw Honey
w& Longvie Also atria Markets5 o Ast ings, pg 3 see list
Chips & Salsa,Kettlecorn too!
360-957-3098
Hwy 30 • Clatskanie
in my landscape—and I haven’t even seen our water bill yet! It’s something we all may need to start thinking about. As wet as it is here in the winter, our summers are getting dryer and warmer. In the past 100 years, the average temperature in the Pacific Northwest has risen about two degrees. As little as this may sound, it has repercussions for our available water supply. It means that there is less snowpack on our mountains, earlier snow melt, and less water available for the last half of summer when we need it to keep our water-guzzling plants alive. Add to that the burgeoning population growth using our water supply, and it means that less water is returning to the rivers and streams to support fish, wildlife, and native plants. I never thought I’d have to worry about the water supply in western Washington, but it’s vulnerable here, too, and will be more so in the future. One of the ways we can help is to create a sustainable but beautiful landscape that sips instead of guzzles water.
landscape is to reduce the size of your lawn. If you give your lawn the recommended one inch of water per week, a 100 x 100-foot area of lawn uses a whopping 6,230 gallons of water per week! Start small—but plan for it now! The thought of renovating my entire yard is overwhelming, but doing it in small chunks is more manageable. Develop an overall plan for your spaces, taking into consideration the sun, soil and soil drainage, wind, slopes, noises, views, etc. Get started with just a small part of it, perhaps just a 4 x 6-foot section. It’s easy to make new planting beds in grassy areas. Cut your grass as low to the ground as you can. Cover it with 10-12 inches of free arborist wood chips. This will kill the grass and weed seeds, and help to create cont page 33
Probably the most important thing you can do to reduce water use in your
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DURING COVID
For ‘TO GO’ Bottle Fills
trees, perennial flowers, bulbs, and groundcovers that you’d enjoy. Place plants with similar light, soil, and water needs together. Prioritize which plants are most important to you and “spend” your water on them; these are probably your pricey trees and shrubs. Plan to use perennial flowers and gorgeous ornamental grasses to add color to your landscape instead of thirsty summer annuals. Learn to appreciate our Pacific Northwest native plants, but plant them in spaces that mimic their natural habitat.
from page 34
great soil as it decomposes. Check in 4-8 weeks. If the grass is dead, you can rake back the chips and plant! Replace 2-4 inches of mulch around the new plants, and re-purpose the rest of the mulch in your yard. It’s as easy as that! Some things to think about Right plants, right place: There are great lists of plants online (greatplantpicks.org) and in books like the Sunset Western Garden Book and Gardening in Summer-Dry Climates: Plants for a Lush, Water-Conscious Landscape by Nora Harlow. Talk to friends about what does best in their gardens... low-water-use shrubs,
Consider adding hardscape areas, groundcovers, low water-need plants, mulch, and eco-lawn mixes to existing turf areas. Replace some of your lawn with water-permeable patio areas OSU/WSU —wood, rock, pavers, gravel Extension Programs are good choices. You can create some lovely OSU – Columbia County) 503-397-3462 Gardening Spot on KOHI (1600 am) radio: Every gathering spaces in your Saturday, 8:05–8:15am landscaping to enjoy with your family and WSU – Cowlitz County friends. 304 Cowlitz Way, Kelso, WA 98626 Free online Workshops While you’re Call 360-577-3014 Ext.3, for connection info. planning, consider Details: cowlitzcomg.com/events getting a soil Aug. 17 Noon • Extending the Growing Season test for specific Aug. 24 12 Noon • Seed saving — for NEXT season recommendations for Aug. 31 12 Noon • Growing Garlic in the Pacific NW improving your soil Sept. 7 Noon • Ask a WSU Master Gardener
before planting—you can’t go wrong by adding more composted organic matter to your existing soil. Planning for drip irrigation and mulching will get the water where you need it and keep it there. I think our dry, hot summers are probably here to stay for the foreseeable future — let’s adapt our landscaping to the conditions. One of the best things about planning drought-resistant landscaping is you’ll have less work to do in the garden and be able to enjoy it more. Your plants will be healthier because they
are adapted to dry summers, you’ll be doing less weeding and watering because of your drip irrigation and mulching, and your water bill will be much lower. Learn as you go — some plants will work great for you, others may not. Be flexible because there are so many fun options to choose from! •••
Original • Local • Organic All about the good life here
Kalama resident Alice Slusher volunteers with WSU Extension Service Plant & Insect Clinic. Call 360577-3014, ext. 8, or send question via cowlitzmastergardener@ gmail.com.
Only good news Lewis & Clark subscribed So did Thomas Jefferson Past covers make unique gift wrap
Sept. 14 Noon • Planting in Shady Areas
COMMUNITY/FARMERS MARKETS Astoria Sunday Market
Ilwaco Saturday Market
Thru Oct. 23. Sundays • 10–3 Downtown on 12th, just off Hwy 30, Astoria, Ore. • 503-325-1010 www.astoriasundaymarket.com Mgr: Shelby, 503-440-7168 shelby@astoriadowntown.com
Saturdays • 10–4 Thru Sept 25 Arts/crafts, housewares, cut flowers, foods. Port of Ilwaco, Ilwaco, Wash. www.portofilwaco.com Info: marketmanager.ilwaco@gmail.com or phone 360-670-0120
Clatskanie Farmers’ Market Saturdays • 10–2, June to Sept. Copes Park. From Hwy 30, turn north on Nehalem, east on Lillich. New vendors welcome; find application at clatskaniefarmersmarket.com Info: 971-506-7432 Darro Breshears-Routon clatskaniefmvendorcoordinator@gmail.com
Elochoman Marina Farmers Market
Columbia-Pacific Farmers Market
Scappoose Community Club Farmers Market
Fridays •12–5pm, June to Sept Downtown Long Beach, Wash. www.longbeachwa.gov info: cpfmmallory@gmail.com; 360-224-3921
Cowlitz Community Farmers Market Open 9–2, Sat thru Oct, Tues thru Sept. 1900 7th Ave, Cowlitz Expo Center, Longview, Wash. www.cowlitzfarmersmarkets.com Info: Laurie Kochis 360-957-7023 lauriekochis@msn.com
Fridays thru Sept 10 • 3–6pm 500 2nd St,, Cathlamet, Wash. cathlametmarina.org Info: port1j@cni.net, call or text Deb Holland, Mgr: 360-849-9401
Saturday, 9–2 • Thru Sept 25 Behind City Hall next to Heritage Park, 2nd St., Scappoose, Ore. www.scappoosefarmermarket.com Info: Bill Blank 503-730-7429 email: scappoosefm@gmail.com
We gladly list local farmers markets. Please send details and contact info to publisher@ crreader.com Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 35
Astronomy
SKY REPORT
Looking UP
By Greg Smith
By Greg Smith
AUG 20 – SEPT 19 Late August and on through September the night sky becomes more and more friendly for watching the sky as it get dark earlier and earlier each night and the nights are comfortable and inviting. This makes it all the easier to go out and observe. So, what’s up this time of the year? The Evening Sky
The very bright star Vega is basically straight overhead as it marks the anchor point of the summer triangle of three other bright stars in three constellation. Vega in Lyra, the others are Deneb the tail in Cygnus the Swan and Altair in Aquila. Now in September, the constellation of Pegasus, the flying upside-down horse rises and brings along the rescued princess Andromeda. In the northeastern sky they rise along with our closest large galactic neighbor. To see this, look for two lines of stars on the northeastern end of the large square that marks the body of Pegasus. They look like the hind legs of Pegasus, but are actually the body of Andromeda. At the middle of Andromeda, follow three stars up and at the third star you will find the fuzzy smudge of light. This is the Andromeda Galaxy (M31). This is visible by naked eye in a very dark sky, or with binoculars in town. All we can see is the bright center of the galaxy, but with a telescope you can see more of the outlying arms. Of course, the bigger the scope, the more you will see. If you know how to attach a camera to your scope and get a long shutter opening of about 20 seconds, you will see even more in the photo you just took. In late August, Venus, around 9 pm, disappears from the horizon. So, catch Venus before its gone. By around 10:00pm Jupiter is well above the horizon along with
Sky-gazing as meditation
Saturn just ahead of it. They will be in the southeastern sky, about 30 degrees above the horizon, in the constellation of Capricorn. Saturn and Jupiter are higher in the sky than they were last year, making for better viewing. With Saturn at its highest point in the night sky around midnight, it will be at its brightest. Saturn’s rings are tilted by 18 degrees and allow you to see the gap in the rings even in small telescopes at 25x magnification. Of course, the larger the scope, the more you will see. Night Sky Spectacle If you want to see another globular cluster, look for M5, which lies just off the nose of the upside-down horse Pegasus. The nose is in the opposite corner .of Pegasus from Andromeda. To find it, count four stars from the corner and take a left turn up to a bright reddish colored star called Enif. It lies just up off the nose of Pegasus at about two finger widths. It is a pretty ball of stars. I quite liked it the first time I saw it. You will need a telescope and a fairly dark sky. The astronomer who catalogued this tight cluster of stars saw it from Paris with a 4-inch diameter telescope, but he did not have light pollution to contend with. Moon Phases Full: Aug. 22, Sunday 3rd Quarter: Aug. 30, Monday New: Sept. 6, Monday 1st Quarter: Sept. 13, Monday End of twilight... when the stars start to come out. Saturday, Aug. 21 8:42:06 pm Monday, Sept 1st 8:20:54 pm Sunday, Sept 19th 7:44:52 pm
Escape into the heavens
L
ate summer: warm evenings, dark before 10pm, and the harbingers of the autumn sky are rising. In mid-September, what is that smell in the air? Is it the smell of fall? A slightly sharp feel blowing in the wind. In recent polls, a majority of people have stated the Fall is their favorite season. Warm days and cool nights, easy sleeping temperatures are back. The Summer Triangle is still high overhead, the horse Pegasus and its rider are rising in the eastern sky. The rider? It is the rescued princess Andromeda, and her gem of a galaxy. What else is great viewing in August and September? Look to the south. See the nemesis of Orion, the Scorpion with its hook of a tail, its broad shoulders, and bright red heart, the star Antares. Right next to Antares is a wonderful globular cluster (M4) that can be seen with binoculars in a sky where it’s darker than in town. Just east of the scorpion is the “teapot” and the “steam” of the Milky Way rising from its spout. It is here that the massive black hole of our home galaxy resides. The “teapot” is really an asterism, a portion of the larger constellation of Sagittarius. The top of the teapot has a number of beautiful sights, more globular clusters, and open clusters of stars. Plus, the glowing nebulas of the Lagoon and Trifid. What is the benefit of looking at all these far away objects? I think it’s that they can take you away from the turmoil of days with a constant barrage of negative news. Scanning the skies is a meditative activity. Let your imagination float you up into the night sky. To either just look up at the night sky and see the beauty or to slowly scan the sky with a pair of binoculars, gives a sense of being a part of something bigger and grander than the pettiness of what is around us. Is it escapism? Probably, but it is always good to take a moment and get out of the middle of a problem and see what its context is. As the saying goes, “Can’t see the forest for the trees.” A night out under the stars, with a pair of binoculars gazing at the trail of the Milky Way across the sky, will reveal the beauty of the “forest.” Rest your eyes upon just a spot in the Milky Way and focus on all the stars. As your eyes adjust to the light level, you will see more and more stars. You will have your own “deep field” experience just as the Hubble telescope did a few years ago. Travel deeper and deeper into the sky and let everything else drop away. Longview resident Greg Smith is past president of Friends of Galileo. Meet him and other club members at monthly meetings in Longview. For more info about FOG, visit friendsofgalileo.com.
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Bring ad in for 10% Off first purchase or repair. 36 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
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Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 37
the spectator
PLUGGED IN TO
by ned piper
R
COWLITZ PUD
Paul Thompson: 11/25/40 – 7/28/21 Thinking about life and a longtime friend
A. Long High School, Lower Columbia College and University of Washington classmate, fellow traveler, duffer golfmate, Columbia River Reader columnist, neighbor, and friend. That scratches the surface of my relationship with Paul W. Thompson, a friendship spanning more than 65 years.
By Alice Dietz
Paul and I lost touch over the years after college until our 40th high school class reunion. Paul was nearing retirement from his teaching position at Wright College in the Chicago area. He told me about his dream to move to Sequim, buy a chunk of land, log some of its trees and build a house with the resulting lumber. This, to me, sounded like an ambitious, impossible dream, but, by golly, Paul did it.
W
e are excited to announce our 4th Annual Eat for Heat! On September 30th, the Utility Moratorium will be lifted and we will see an increase in the need for Warm Neighbor funds to assist impacted families. Our Warm Neighbor program 100% assists low-income families with their PUD bills. The cool thing about this program is that it helps families without their having to qualify for federal assistance. Recipients of federal assistance currently must qualify at the federal poverty level — which is a threshold of $26,000 for a family of four, meaning if you make even a dollar over that amount, you are not qualified for assistance.
Sue and I visited Sequim a number of times, playing golf, taking a spin in his sailboat, dining out, cooking in and hunting mushrooms. It was there that we came to recognize Paul’s talent as a gourmet cook, leading later on to his popular “Man in the Kitchen” column in the Reader. When Paul decided to move to Longview, where he had friends dating back to grade school at St. Rose School, he not only made the tough decision to sell his dream home, but he moved directly across the alley from us. While it is difficult to outdo the adventures Paul and I experienced in the four times we were together in Europe, one more local incident stands out to me. We were in Seattle attending UW when he heard that Longview had been ravaged by what is known as the Columbus Day storm. This rare windstorm was reportedly headed to Seattle. Paul and I drove to the site of the World’s Fair expecting to watch the Space Needle blow down. While there, we were herded by authorities into a safe place on the fairgrounds. The safe place turned out to be the performance venue of some exotic dancers. Not the naughty type, but belly dancers from India. In later years, when Paul’s shortterm memory began to falter, he still remembered that incident and many others from our travel days.
One in three families in Cowlitz County are struggling to pay their bills and 85 percent of single mothers are unable to afford their bill. Warm Neighbor is able to help those families. Please join us for our largest annual fundraiser, Eat for Heat. A direct link is available through a QR code in this month’s PUD advertisement (see page 37) and may also be found at cowlitzpud.org •••
Ned Piper and Paul Thompson at “The Thinker,” the bronze sculpture by Auguste Rodin, located at the Rodin Museum, Paris.
Longview resident Ned Piper coordinates advertising and distribution of CRR, all the while enjoying meeting and greeting old friends and new. 38 / Columbia River Reader /August 15, 2021
Alice Dietz is Communications/Public Relations Manager at Cowlitz PUD. Reach her at adietz@ cowlitzpud.org, or 360-501-9146.
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Paul led an interesting life. He put himself through college working summers at Weyerhaeuser, driving taxi in Seattle and later held a job as a SAFECO claims adjuster, before teaching speech and drama at Wright College. He was never short of stories to tell about each of his varied vocations. Paul will be missed, but never forgotten. •••
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wned and operated by Jeannine Grafton for 23 years, RiverSea Gallery features contemporary fine art and creations by Northwest artists and artisans.
CRRPress Books: “I’m reading The Tidewater Reach right now – fabulous! I’m thrilled to be part of the Gallery. The displays are very eye-catching. People coming through are drawn to these books and other works of art.” Leanne Rund, frame shop owner, co-located in RiverSea Gallery In the spotlight at RiverSea Gallery ~ CRRPress books!
RiverSea Gallery 1160 Commercial Street, Astoria, Oregon 503-325-1270 • riverseagallery.com Hours: Mon-Sat, 11–6; Sunday 11–4.
Readers are raving about these books...
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DISPATCHES FROM THE DISCOVERY TRAIL A Layman’s Lewis & Clark
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At 1333 14th AVE, LONGVIEW, Wash. or locations throughout the region Both titles available in • Boxed Signature Edition Color / BW $50 • Trade Paperback in BW $25 Online: CRREADER.COM/CRRPRESS INFO: 360-749-1021
A Different Way of Seeing...
Both books Include Hal Calbom’s author Interviews
Also available at: • Columbia Gorge Interpretive Museum, Stevenson • North Bank Books, Stevenson • Vintage Books 6613 E. Mill Plain, Vancouver • Broadway Gallery, Longview • Cowlitz County Historical Museum Shop, Kelso • Vault Books & Brew, Castle Rock • Mount St. Helens Gift Shop, Castle Rock, Exit 49 • Tsuga Gallery, Cathlamet • Wahkiakum Eagle, Cathlamet • Redmen Hall, Skamokawa • Skamokawa Store, Skamokawa • Appelo Archives, Naselle • Time Enough Books, Ilwaco • Godfathers Books, Astoria • RiverSea Gallery, Astoria • Columbia River Maritime Museum Store, Astoria • Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum, The Dalles, Ore.
Please support our local booksellers & galleries Columbia River Reader / August 15, 2021 / 39
40 / Columbia River Reader / August October 15, 2020 15, 2021
