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The World Saturday, Nov. 29, 2014

Rusty shows his ever-growing train collection

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 2

Holiday Train-ing

BY TIM NOVOTNY The World

CHARLESTON — Just what is it about trains and Christmas-time that just seems to blend so well, eliciting smiles and renewing distant memories?

There likely are many different theories out there, with some, no doubt, tying the rails from our present to those leading to the happy memories of childhood.

That reasoning sounds about as good as any, but, no matter the why, it is hard to argue about the draw. For instance, last year’s model train and Christmas village exhibit in Charleston drew more than 7,000 people to the old Charleston School in just more than three weeks.

If you are among the multitude who loves anything to do with locomotives, the Bay Area has something you’ll want to see this holiday season.

Two of the busiest “engineers” on the South Coast at this time of year are Dick Jamsgard and Rusty Shield. Jamsgard works with the life-size variety at the railway museum, while Shield oversees an ever-growing model train display in Charleston.

For years, holiday revelers heading north along U.S. Highway 101 in Coos Bay have come across the unique site of an historic train engine and caboose lit-up like a mobile steel Christmas tree.

Dick Jamsgard is the

manager of the Oregon Coast Historical Railway, at 766 South First St. He says that while they are lighting the museum area once again, some of their holiday focus will be on their newest addition, which will be going on display in the Pony Village Mall from Dec. 13-21.

“Some call it a pony,” Jamsgard said. “It’s 18inch track and weighs about 3,000 pounds.”

That “pony” is the old Snug Harbor Rail, which once roared youngsters a ro u n d a t ra c k i n Charleston before heading south of the Oregon border.

The miniature steam train, which ran in this area during the 1950s and ‘60s, is being renovated with the hope of one day rolling young passengers once again on the South Coast.

“Its always been a attraction,” tourist Jamsgard said. And it will be again, he hopes, this holiday season. It may also help drum up some donations, of either the financial or talent variety, for the museum. If you go to check it out at the mall, you will also be able to do some Christmas gift shopping. You will find Snug Harbor T-shirts, mugs and baseball caps, all to help them raise funds.

Otherwise you can think about donating some time in the new year, which is also something Jamsgard can’t get enough of. here are “We and Wednesday’s Saturday’s, year round,” he explained. “We need

painters and electricians and plumbers and welders, librarians, and fund raising.

“And I need somebody who likes to file. We have lots of filing to do,” he added, with a chuckle.

“We have the file cabinets and the folders, I need someone to organize our files. So, there is something for everybody. It’s a community effort. It takes a whole community to run a train museum.”

Across town, a whole community is on display inside the Old Charleston School, located at the start of Seven Devils Road well, a miniature one anyway.

Rusty Shield has been building his Miniature Village and Christmas Train Display for 15 years, adding a little bit more each year. Not surprisingly, it eventually outgrew its original home at the Charleston Fire Station.

After arriving at the Old Charleston School in 2013, Shield is hoping more people will find their way back in 2014. While the aforementioned 7,000 people did find the site last year, he notes that 10,000 walked in from the cold during the 2012 “season.”

Since 2000, Shield has opened the doors to his collection from Dec. 1 through Christmas Eve. Keeping it open seven nights a week, from 6 to 10 p.m.

And, each year, it is unveiled to be bigger and better than the previous year.

“I’ll have seven trains running, in three different

Photos by Amanda Loman, The World

Rusty Shields’ miniature train display has become a community traditon.

sizes,” he said, during a recent shakedown test of the rails, while acknowledging that the village is a true family affair. “When my wife sees something new is when she decides to add to the houses. All of these houses have been bought, and donated, just for this.”

While he says it really is all for the kids, the definition of who falls into that category is open to debate.

“Kids come in all sizes and all ages. We had a tour bus last year from Sacramento, Calif. They had decided to come up and see Shore Acres and this,” he said. “They came (here) on the 23rd and then went to Shore Acres. On the 24th they were back here.”

Like giant train cars lined across the area, the displays make for a fun one-day chug across town to finish at the Holiday Lights Display at Shore Acres State Park (you may also feel free to start there, it works both ways). Or, spread it out over a few days. Whatever plan you choose, Shields and Jamsgard are pretty certain you won’t be disappointed. ”I think everybody for the last 200 years has had a train around the Christmas tree,” Jamsgard said. “I was raised with a Lionel around our tree when I was a child. I’m 76 now, so I’ve got 75 years of trains. It’s just kind of a tradition of watching the train and Santa coming.”

Shield takes a similar, if slightly more historical, look at the perfect match. ”Trains have been around since the late 1820’s and they are what helped make this country, more than anything else,” he said. ”I remember I was 5 years old when I got my first one. My dad wouldn’t let me play with it until he made sure it ran right. I don’t know if that was all truthful or not. But, I can remember, when I was little, almost every department store had a train in their window, whether it be Lionel or American Flyer or Marx. Those were the three big ones at that time. ”It is just something that connects everybody.”

NORTH BEND - Take a free harmonic trip around the world with seven Coos County a cappella groups at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7. “Christmas Around the World” is the third annual musical gift to the community presented by Sea Breeze Harmony Chorus at Faith Lutheran Church, 2741 Sherman Ave., North Bend.

“We are so excited to bring this joy-

ful noise to the community,” said Gail Elber, Sea Breeze Harmony Chorus Director. “This is the premiere performance for the 2014 Christmas Chorus. The singers have been learning new carols and rehearsing since September to share the season’s spirit.”

Joining Sea Breeze Harmony Christmas Chorus for the concert is Gold Coast Chorus, Marshfield HS New

Horizons Choir, North Bend HS Jazz Choir, The Breakers Quartet, Pure Vocal Quartet and South Coast Women’s Tree-O. The groups will sing holiday pop and traditional favorites with jazz and fourpart harmony arrangements.

Admission is free, and donations will be collected for benefit of the groups.

“In Stitches” recognizes the best COOS BAY — Eugene fabric artist Janet Hiller’s creation “Summer Soltice” received the jurors nod as “Best of Show” at the “In Stitches 2014” quilt show at Pacific Park Gallery in Coos Bay. The large work features hand-dyed fabrics, beading, silk ribbon, pleating, tucks, fusing and is hand quilted.

The jurors Susan Lehman and Chris Malone said they were impressed with the dimensionality and composition of the work.

Sharon Leahy, of Coos Bay, received the “Best Free-Form” recognition with her “Dancing Daisies.” The piece features whole cloth quilting, original design, hand-dyed and painted fabric, free motion quilting and is hand embellished.

Much of the composition is created with thread painting.

“Best Traditional” work was awarded to Shirley Hammar, North Bend, for “Mama Duck.” The quilt is a patchwork quilt featuring curved piecework.

“Honorable Mention” was awarded to “Alice in Stitches”

by Renee Freiden of Coos Bay, “Blue Note” by Joanna Price of Salem, “Fire” by Diane English of Eugene, and “Snapshot of a Legacy” by Hammar.

“In Stitches 2014” includes 37 free-form and original traditional quilts. The free exhibit continues Monday through Friday through Jan. 20 at Pacific Park Gallery, 1957 Thompson Road, Coos Bay. Visitors are encouraged to cast a vote for their favorite work. A “People’s Choice” award will be given in January.

Contributed photo

Light up for money in Coquille COQUILLE — Pacific Power and Light and Coquille Chamber are again sponsoring Coquille’s Christmas Lighting Contest.

No entry forms will be required, but if you want your home or business judged, phone the Chamber office at 541-396-3414 or email coquillechamber@mycomspan.com and let them know where to find your lights.

Judging begins starting at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, so be sure to have your lights on.

Cash prizes will be awarded: residential; first $100, second $50 and third $25, and for the Best Business $75.

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Come get your Thanksgiving centerpiece for your table. Check out our 30+ microbrews and 10+ vineyards in our beer & wine section.

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 3

Christmas Around the World rings at concert in North Bend

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 4

Introduction to watercolor with Liv Drahos COOS BAY — Watercolor classes with local artist Liv Drahos will be offered Saturdays for four weeks beginning Saturday, Jan. 17.

The beginning level watercolor class for adults will meet 1:30-3:30 p.m. Jan 17, 24 and 31 and Feb. 7, at Coos Art Museum. Class size will be limited to between 6 and 12 painters. Cost is $90 or $75 to museum members.

Register before Jan. 9, online at www.coosart.org, by e m a i l i n g sldonaldson@coosart.org or calling 541-267-3901.

Drahos has extensive experience in teaching, both drawing and watercolor painting. Participants will learn elements of design, composition and color theory. Drahos will help you select the right tools and materials needed to successfully mix colors and apply flat, graded and wetinto-wet washes on a variety of different surfaces.

Contributed photo

Classes & Workshops SATURDAY, DEC. 6 Santa’s Wooden Boat Workshop 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coos Bay Boat Building Center, 100 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Build a wooden Kon-Tiki. Boat building kits will include wooden pontoons, rigging and sails, $10. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Hot cider, cookies, coffee and music provided. A limited number of scholarships are available. Contact Leahy for information or to register.

Monotype Workshop with Pat Snyder 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Coos Art Museum, 235 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay. Two-day class, size limited to 3-6 adult,s all skill levels. Second class same time Saturday, Dec. 13. Cost is $90 or $75 to CAM members. Register by Dec. 4. 541-2673901

http://bay.cooslibraries.org/calendar Monotype Workshop with Pat Snyder 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Coos Art Museum, 235 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay. Two-day class, size limited to 3-6 adults of all skill levels. Second class same time Saturday, Dec. 13. Cost is $90 or $75 to CAM members. Register by Dec. 4. 541267-3901

SATURDAY, DEC. 13 Holiday Greens Workshop 1-3 p.m., South Slough Interpretive Center, 61907 Seven Devils Road, Charleston. Make holiday decorations for your home. Cost is $2 per person, all materials provided. For ages 6 and older with an adult. Call to register 541-888-5558.

MONDAY, DEC. 29 FRIDAY, DEC. 12 Job Assist Computer Lab noon-2 p.m., Coos Bay Public Library Myrtlewood Room, 525 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay. Job related computer needs only. User may bring their own laptop. First-come, firstserved. 541-269-1101 or

Library2Go Ebook Workshop 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., Coos Bay Public Library Cedar Room, 525 Anderson Ave, Coos Bay. Valid library card, email address, and wireless device with network accessability required. Info: 541-2691101.

Tours and sales at historic sites PORT ORFORD — Cape Blanco Heritage Society will hold special sales at three historic sites 11 a.m.4 p.m. Nov. 29, at Cape Blanco Lighthouse and the bookstore; Hughes House, and the Victorian Shoppe; and Lifeboat Station Museum and the Gift Locker.

Gift items will be discounted and there will be tours of the historic sites, which normally are closed this time of year.

All sites are on the National Register of Historic Places. Hughes House and Cape Blanco Lighthouse are located on the ocean side of U.S. Highway 101, about five miles north of Port Orford, on Cape Blanco Road. The Lifeboat Station Museum is located in Port Orford.

Turn west on Ninth Street and follow the road up the hill till it ends.

More information can be found at capeblancoheritagesociety.com.

Learn a little local history at the new museum COOS BAY - Learn about the history and heritage of the place where you live – Oregon’s south coast – by taking a SWOCC Community Education class this winter term taught by local historian and Coos County Historical Society board member Steven Greif. The course will be held Wednesday evenings 7-8:20 p.m. in the community room of the new Coos History Museum on the waterfront in Coos Bay. The first class starts Wednesday, Jan. 7, and classes will continue through March 18.

Topics will include geography, native cultures, Euro-American settlement, historic occu-

pations, effects of the two world wars, transportation history, and late 20th century developments on Oregon’s south coast. There will be no tests or required textbooks for this noncredit course. The bulk of the $50 course fee will go to support museum operations. Anyone 12 or older may sign up for the course by visiting the Student First Stop centers at the Coos campus or at Brookings, Gold Beach or Port Orford locations. Register online at “myLakerLink”.

For more information, call SWOCC at 541888-7328 or contact the instructor at 541-7567871.

Coos Bay Boat Building Center holds holiday workshop COOS BAY - Santa’s helpers of all ages are invited to make a wooden Kon-Tiki catamaran boat at the Coos Bay Boat Building Center during Santa’s Workshop 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 6.

Kits will include wooden pontoons, rigging and sails. Make boats with family and friends.

During the workshop all materials and instruction will be provided as well as cookies, coffee and cider. Class fee of $10 will include materials for two toy sailboats. Santa’s Workshop is open to everyone, children must be accompanied by an adult. Christmas music and sea chanties will provide a nice ambiance for this event.

The Coos Bay Boat Building Center is partnering with the Rotary Clubs’ Bus Jam which provides holiday toys for our area youth. A limited number of scholarships are available.

For information or to register, call Tom Leahy at 541217-4365.

SATURDAY, NOV. 29

Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

Shop Small 10 a.m. Downtown Coos Bay. Hosted by the Coos Bay Downtown Association. Participating merchants will be listed at www.coos- Bandon Tree Lighting — A Night of 10,000 Lights 5:30 p.m., Oldtown Bandon. Festivities begin at 3 p.m. 541-297-2342 baydowntown.org Wings & Things 4-H Holiday Craft Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquille Commu- Black & White Dance 7:30 p.m., Odd Fellows Hall, state Highway 42S and Ohio, Bandon. Hosted by nity Building, 115 N. Birch, Coquille. All vendors are 18 and younger.

Bandon Oregon Ballroom Dance Association.

Holiday Open House 10 a.m-4 p.m., Prestige Property Management, Family event, $3 donation. Dress in Black, white 1810 Monroe St., North Bend. Featured: Thirty-One and Scentsy prodor gray. 541-332-7053 ucts. 541-290-7673 Old Town Marketplace 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 250 First St. SW, Bandon. FarmSUNDAY, NOV. 30 ers and artisans on the waterfront.

Boy Scout Troop 761 Fundraiser Christmas Tree Sale 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Small Business Saturday Sale 10 a.m-4 p.m., South Slough Interpretive lot south of Oregon Connection House of Myrtlewood, 1125 S. First Center, 61907 Seven Devils Road, Charleston. Proceeds go to FOSS St., Coos Bay. Noble Fir 4-8 foot, $25-45. Deliveries available, call 541Bookstore and the reserve. 541-888-5558 290-8794 Boy Scout Troop 761 Fundraiser Christmas Tree Sale 10 a.m.-6 p.m., lot Oregon Coast Chamber Orchestra Concert 2 p.m., Church of God, 2191 south of Oregon Connection House of Myrtlewood, 1125 S. First St., Birch Ave., Reedsport. Cost is $10 for adults, children and students Coos Bay. Noble Fir 4-8 foot, $25-45. Deliveries available, call 541admitted free. 541-997-3727 290-8794 St. Andrew’s Day Celebration 2 p.m., Egyptian Theatre, 229 S. BroadNature Film: Bears 1-3 p.m., South Slough Interpretive Center, 61907 way, Coos Bay. Live music, refreshments, the St. Andrew story, and Seven Devils Road, Charleston. Film shown on a big screen, popcorn feature film, “Local Hero.” provided. Call to register 541-888-5558.

Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

Old-Fashioned Jam Session 5 p.m., Halfway Tavern, 59576 Halfway Road, Coos Bay. 541-267-5933

Movies

Big Hero 6 2D — PG • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 12:00, 1:10, 2:45, 3:50, 5:25, 8:05

Birdman — R • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 12:10, 5:55

Dumb and Dumber To — PG-13 • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 1:15, 4:00, 6:50, 9:30

Fury — R • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 2:55, 8:40

Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 — PG-13 • Pony Village Cinema: S-Su: 11:30; S-Th: 12:20, 2:25, 3:20, 5:20, 6:20, 8:20, 9:15 • Redwood Cinema: S-Su: 1:00; S-Su, Th: 4:00; S-Th: 7:00; W: 2:00

Horrible Bosses 2 — R • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 12:05, 1:00, 2:50, 3:45, 5:30, 6:40, 8:15, 9:25

Interstellar — PG-13 • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 12:30, 4:10, 7:50

Penguins of Madagascar 3D — PG • Pony Village Cinema: S-Su: 11:40; S-Th: 4:15, 8:45

Penguins of Madagascar 2D — PG • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 12;45, 1:55, 3:10, 5:35, 6:30, 8:00 • Redwood Cinema: S-Su: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00; S-Th: 7:00; W: 2:00; Th: 4:00

St. Vincent — PG-13 • Pony Village Cinema: S-Th: 6:25, 9:00

Pony Village Cinema, North Bend: 541-756-3447 Redwood Cinema, Brookings: 541-412-7575

MONDAY, DEC. 1 SWOCC Anuual Student Art Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eden Hall Art Gallery, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Percentage of sale proceeds go to art scholarships and studio assistants.

NARFE No-host Lunch Meeting 11:30 a.m., Fisherman’s Grotto, 91149 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. 541-554-2376 Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

TUESDAY, DEC. 2 Get Out Get Covered 9 a.m.-5 p.m., North Bend Medical Center, 1900 Woodland Drive, Coos Bay. Get help with selection of health coverage plan. http://getoutgetcovered.com SWOCC Anuual Student Art Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eden Hall Art Gallery, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Percentage of sale proceeds go to art scholarships and studio assistants.

Gadget Expo 10:30-11:30 a.m., Coos Bay Public Library Myrtlewood Room, 525 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay. Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

Bingo 6:45 p.m., Masonic Lodge 140, 2002 Union Ave., North Bend. Refreshments available.

Dolphin Players Play Reading 7 p.m., North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Ave., North Bend. 541-808-2611 Gold Coast Men’s Chorus Christmas and Beyond 7:15-9:15 p.m., Marshfield High School chorus room, 10th and Ingersoll, Coos Bay. Men’s four part harmony for the holidays until Dec. 27. Reading music not required. 541-808-4597

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3 SWOCC Annual Student Art Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eden Hall Art Gallery, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Percentage of sale proceeds go to art scholarships and studio assistants.

Preschool Storytime 11 a.m., Reedsport Branch Library, 395 Winchester Ave., Reedsport. Stories and crafts. 541-271-3500 Business Connection Luncheon 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Mill Casino, Salmon Room, 3201 Tremont St., North Bend. No host buffet $12.

Guests: TBA. RSVP, 541-266-0868.

Coos Bay Garden Club Meeting 1-2:30 p.m., Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1290 Thompson Road, Coos Bay. Potluck with entertainment provided by North Bend High School Choir. 541-756-4285 Let the Whole World Sing Christmas Cantata 7 p.m., Sprague Community Theater, 1202 11th St. SW, Bandon. Presented by Bandon Ministerial Association, directed by John Harding.

Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

THURSDAY, DEC. 4 SWOCC Annual Student Art Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eden Hall Art Gallery, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. Percentage of sale proceeds go to art scholarships and studio assistants.

Red Cross Blood Drive noon-6 p.m., Red Lion Hotel, 1313 N. Bayshore Drive, Coos Bay. Schedule using sponsor code Coos Bay Community at 800-733-2767 or www.redcrossblood.org.

Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

Girl Scout Troop 30407 Movie Night - Forest Gump 6:30 p.m., Egyptian Theatre, 229 S. Broadway, Coos Bay. Admission is two nonperishable food items.

Festival of Trees Auction 7 p.m., The Mill Casino-Hotel Salmon Room, 3201 Tremont, North Bend. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. 541-269-7929

FRIDAY, DEC. 5 ILWU Auxiliary Craft Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ILWU Hall, 2064 Sheridan Ave., North Bend.

Christmas Bazaar 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2250 16th St., North Bend. Baked potato sale proceeds will go to church youth group.

Old Town Marketplace 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 250 First St. SW, Bandon. Farmers and artisans on the waterfront.

Winter Craft Faire 10 a.m.-4 p.m., The Barn, 1200 11th St. SW, Bandon.

541-551-5073 Ninth Annual Nativity Festival 1-6 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints, 2705 Munsel Lake Road, Florence. Various sizes and styles of nativities on display.

Red Cross Blood Drive 1-6 p.m., Church of Christ, 2761 Broadway, North Bend. Schedule using sponsor code North Bend Community at 800-733-2767 or www.redcrossblood.org.

Holiday Lights 4-9:30 p.m., Shore Acres State Park, 89309 Cape Arago Highway, Charleston. Refreshments and displays in the Garden House. Parking is $5. Visit www.shoreacres.net for the entertainment schedule.

Downtown Coos Bay Wine Walk 5-7:30 p.m. Start at Coos Bay Visitor Information Center, 50 Central Ave. Map & glass $10. Proceeds benefit Friends of Coos County Animals, Furry Friends, Kohl’s Kat House and S/Nipped. 541-269-1222 ext. 248

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 5

GO! Calendar of Events

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 6

53rd Annual Holiday Bazaar 5-8 p.m., Reedsport Community Center, 451 Winchester Ave., Reedsport.

Sea of Lights 6:30-9:30 p.m., Oregon Coast Aquarium, 2820 SE Ferry Slip Road, Newport. Admission is $2 and two cans or pet or people food, or $8. Santa available for photos. www.aquarium.com Christmas Opry 7 p.m., Little Theatre on the Bay, 2100 Sherman Ave., North Bend. Tickets: online at http://ltob.net or 541-756-4336.

Oregon Coast Chamber Orchestra Concert 7 p.m., Yachats Community Presbyterian Church, 360 W. Seventh St., Yachats. Adults $10. 541997-3727 The Plight Before Christmas Melodrama 7:30 p.m., Sawdust Theatre, 114 N. Adams, Coquille. Adults $10, students $5.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6 ILWU Auxiliary Craft Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ILWU Hall, 2064 Sheridan Ave., North Bend.

Christmas Bazaar 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2250 16th St., North Bend. Lasagna sales proceeds will go to Knights of Columbus Christmas Baskets.

13th Annual Bus Jam 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Bandon Shopping Center and BiMart parking lots. www.loadthebus.com Holiday Open House 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Coquille Valley Art Center, 10144 Highway 42, Coquille. Art demonstrations, raffle and original art for sale. Refreshments.

Friends of Coos Bay Public Library Book Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coos Bay Public Library Cedar and Myrtlewood rooms, 525 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay. Old Town Marketplace 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 250 First St. SW, Bandon. Farmers and artisans on the waterfront.

Winter Craft Faire 10 a.m.-4 p.m., The Barn, 1200 11th St. SW, Bandon.

541-551-5073 Umpqua Discovery Center Community Appreciation Day 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Umpqua Discovery Center, 409 Riverfront Way, Reedsport. Free admission.

53rd Annual Holiday Bazaar 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Reedsport Community Center, 451 Winchester Ave., Reedsport.

Holiday Book Sale noon-4:30 p.m., Bandon Public Library, 1204 11th St. SW, Bandon. Members admitted at 10 a.m.

Ninth Annual Nativity Festival 1-6 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints, 2705 Munsel Lake Road, Florence. Various sizes and styles of nativities on display.

Let the Whole World Sing Christmas Cantata 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 592 Edison Ave. SW, Bandon. Presented by Bandon Ministerial Association, directed by John Harding.

Free Roller Skating 3-5 p.m., Snoddy Memorial Gymnasium, Bay Area Church of the Nazarene, 1850 Clark St., North Bend. Skates provided for all ages. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

Gut microbiota Stomach bacteria is important to your overall health That huge meal you ate the other day?

You’d have a hard time digesting it by yourself.

Many people know that termites can’t actually digest wood: it’s the bacteria in the termite guts that do the work of breaking down cellulose.

But termites are certainly not the only animals that host digestion helpers. Most complex animals have microbes that use their bodies as their regular habitat and contribute to the health of the host — complex animals including us.

In fact, there are ten times more bacteria cells in your body than human cells. By far, most of the cells in your body aren’t “you,” but are your companions. While there are lots of microbes naturally living on your skin and mucus membranes, the vast majority of these tenants are living in your gut.

Most of the gut inhabitants are bacteria.

It’s difficult to grow most of these microbes outside the body and microbiotic communities change widely among individuals and between groups, so it’s hard to know for sure how many different kinds of microbes live inside us. However, most researchers estimate there are about 500 different species of bacteria that make our guts their home; some

researchers say that number mous with “bad germs,” might be as high as 1,000. most of the species of That weighs in at one or two microbes living inside us are actually helpful commenpounds. sals.

Another classic Some gut “recruitment and microbes break mortality” scenario, NATURE GUIDE down carbohythe particular species JOURNAL drates (“Rolls, inside each of us is anyone?”) and determined by which other foods. Some microbes find their gut microbes are way inside and involved in the which survive in production of sevgreat numbers. eral nutrients, Which microbes such as certain thrive is determined enzymes and mostly by what we Vitamins B and K, feed them: different MARTY which affect diets support differthings ranging ent microbial comGILES from metabolism munities. to mood — includHow are our “little friends” recruited? We start ing the hormonal balances accumulating our personal that affect obesity.

Apparently there are communities at birth, seeding our bodies with bacteria relationships between our from our mothers. More microbial community and microbes are added from our immune system, as an food and the environment increase in allergies and until, at about age 3, we usu- auto-immune disease seems ally have a full set similar to to go along with a decrease in gut microbes. our parents.

And a robust population Our gut microbes thrive — or not — depending on of the beneficial bacteria can what we send down to them (what we eat) and how we treat them. Antibiotics used to control too many harmful bacteria will also beat down populations of favorable bacteria.

While most of us probably grew up with “microorganisms” being synony-

help crowd out infestations of harmful bacteria.

Our microbial community is so important that the National Institute of Health calls it “the forgotten organ.”

This newly-understood importance of our microbial communities has spurred fresh research on their benefits and possible management.

Hosting our own complex communities, each of us is certainly not alone. And one could say we get by with help from our little friends.

Bon Appétit!

Links to more information about gut microbes is posted on the Wavecrest Discoveries’ Facebook page: www.facebook.com/wavecrestdiscoveries. For information on how you can arrange an exploration of our fascinating natural history, contact Giles at 541267-4027, mgiles@wavecrestdiscoveries.com.

Questions and comments about local natural history are welcome.

Christmas carol sing along Join the “Charleston Sweetie Pies” on Sunday, Dec. 7th from 2pm to 3pm at our store location for treats along with singing!

Wild Women of Charleston Oyster Cove Shopping Center • 63340 Boat Basin Drive, Charleston Wine & Gift Shop OPEN Wed. - Mon. 8am - 5pm  www.WildWomenofCharleston.net

Photo courtesy of

http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/september2013/09162013obesity.htm

BEND (AP) — They come in nearly every color scheme imaginable, from camouflage to bright pink.

Most skiers and snowboarders on the slopes are wearing them, and if you’re not, well, you are not just reckless, you are ‘GASP!’ unfashionable.

“Now I feel like if you go up to the mountain, it almost looks weird if you don’t have one on,” says Mikaela Costigan, accessories buyer for Powder House Ski & Snowboard in Bend.

Yes, helmets have been proven to reduce the chance of head injuries on the slopes, and they are now a common accessory among snowriders.

That was not always the case.

According to the National Ski Areas Association, 25 percent of skiers and snowboarders wore helmets during the 2002-03 season. That number was up to 67 percent for the 2011-12 season.

“They’ve come such a long way with the construction, the shape and the look of them,” Costigan says. “I think it’s a lot more comfortable for people to wear them. It’s one of those things, you wear it on a bike, you wear it on a motorcycle, so why wouldn’t you wear it when you’re skiing?”

Coggin Hill, the freeride ski and snowboard director for the Bend-based Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation, points to some high-profile incidents at ski resorts — including the death of Sonny Bono in 1998 after the famous recording artist struck a tree while skiing near South Lake Tahoe, California — as reasons helmet use is on the rise.

Moreover, H ill says, comfort, technology and convenience have helped make helmets mainstream on the slopes. Helmets

help keep goggles and balaclavas intact when skiing or riding and can add warmth in addition to protection.

“For me, I think it’s more comfortable to wear a helmet,” Hill says. “If you crash or fall, you won’t lose your goggles and beanie. A helmet doesn’t come off.

With the (lightweight) technology now, you don’t even notice you’re wearing a helmet. And with the music and the ear-pad speakers, people like riding with music. They’re a lot more convenient than they used to be. They even have Bluetooth now, so you don’t even need a cord.”

MBSEF requires all of its alpine ski racers and freeride skiers and snowboarders to wear helmets.

Hill says that proper helmet fit is crucial. If a helmet is too big or a skier has too much material under it, the helmet can be rendered ineffective.

“It’s very important to get the right fit,” Hill says, adding that helmets should be sized at a ski shop.

“They’re adjustable to a certain extent. We recommend wearing a thin balaclava under it.”

To deal with concussions, MBSEF requires baseline testing — computerized assessments that measure brain function — for most of its competition-level skiers and snowboarders, according to Hill. In the event of a concussion, the same test is taken again by the injured athlete, yielding comparative scores from before and after the injury to help determine when it is safe for the snowrider to return to action.

Also, when an MBSEF snowrider crashes and his or her helmet is cracked, that athlete is prohibited from continuing on the slopes that day, because the damaged helmet is no longer effective. (Most hel-

mets are designed for a single impact, though some are now made for multiple impacts.)

“It’s not as prevalent as in a sport like football,” Hill says of concussions. “But it’s one of the injuries we deal with throughout the year.”

According to the NSAA, the use of helmets reduces the incidence of any head injury on the slopes by 30 to 50 percent, but the decrease in head injuries is generally limited to the less serious injuries. The NSAA further notes that there has been no significant reduction in fatalities over the past decade, even as the use of helmets has increased.

This suggests, according to a New York Times article last year, that some accidents occur at such a high velocity and with such force that helmets do not help in such incidences.

“This trend emphasizes the importance of not increasing risk-taking behavior simply because you are wearing a helmet,” notes a recent NSAA fact sheet. “Skiing and riding in control is essential in improving slope safety and reducing fatalities.”

A study published on www.hopkinsmedicine.or g suggests that the use of helmets by skiers and snowboarders decreases the risk and severity of head injuries and saves lives.

The website says the findings “debunk longheld beliefs by some that the use of helmets gives athletes a false sense of security and promotes dangerous behavior that might increase injuries.”

Helmets range in cost from $60 to $220, averaging about $100, according to Costigan. Companies have started syncing helmets with goggles, matching colors and styles.

Costigan says that kids

The Associated Press

This photo shows a selection of Smith helmets and earphones in Bend.

The Associated Press

This photo shows a selection of Giro helmets and earphones. Helmets have been proven to reduce the chance of head injuries on the slopes, and are now a common accessory among snowriders. often come into Powder House with their parents wanting a helmet for their birthday or for Christmas.

“A lot of parents wear helmets because they want their kids to wear helmets,” Costigan says. “They’re so comfortable, and they keep you so much warmer than a hat or a beanie would.”

Skiers and snowboard-

ers ages 18 to 24 are the least likely to wear a helmet, according to the NSAA. In the 2011-12 season, 53 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds interviewed wore helmets on the slopes, compared with 91 percent of children 9 or younger.

“There’s some really good riders and athletes

who do not wear helmets,” Hill says. “A lot of it is a personal-preference thing.

I think it’s important to wear one all the time. Some people will choose not to if they’re just out cruising around. . Wear it all the time if you want to be 100 percent safe, that’s what I would recommend.”

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 7

Helmets have become commonplace on the slopes

Saturday, Nov.29, 2014 • Go! • 8

OUTDOORS D I G E S T Ocean crab season opens Dec. 1

Hatchery research center board seeks new member to represent independent science

NEWPORT — Fresh Dungeness crab is on the menu for holiday feasts after fishery managers determined the Oregon commercial crab season is ready to open at 9 a.m. Dec. 1.

Quality testing showed crab exceeded minimum pre-season test criteria in Oregon, Washington and California waters. Fishery managers from the three states met recently and agreed to open commercial crabbing from the Klipsan Beach, Wash., to Point Arena, Calif., on Dec. 1.

Commercial crabbers are allowed to set their gear three days before the season opens, so ocean watchers will see the lights of crab boats off the coast as early as this weekend.

Hold inspections will be conducted on Sunday. Any vessel making crab landings in Oregon during the first 30 days of the fishery must be certified to have been free of Dungeness crab on Sunday.

Recreational harvest of Dungeness crab in the ocean off Oregon also opens Dec. 1. The recreational harvest of Dungeness crab in Oregon’s bays and estuaries is open year round.

ALSEA — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking a new board member to represent the independent science community on the Oregon Hatchery Research Center Board. As directed by HB 3441, the independent science member shall have scientific background related to fish management and the propagation of hatchery fish. The successful candidate will serve a four year term.

The board is charged with advising the OHRC director on operational, budget and research priorities at the research center. Additional details about the board’s responsibilities can be found in HB 3441, available on the ODFW website http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/OHRC/docs/2013/HB_3441.pdf.

Candidates must submit an application and provide three references by Dec. 24. The ODFW director will appoint the new member by Jan. 10. The application is available on the ODFW web site http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/OHRC/recruitments.asp .

The OHRC is a cooperative research project between ODFW and OSU. The center’s mission is to develop an understanding of the mechanisms that may create differences between hatchery and wild fish, and devise ways to reduce and manage the differences so that hatcheries can be used responsibly in the conservation and management of Oregon’s native fish.

For more information about the OHRC board or how to apply, please contact Heather Thomas at Heather.Thomas@oregonstate.edu or 541-757-5101. For more information about the OHRC, visit OHRC’s website at www.dfw.state.or.us/OHRC.

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