Valley Bugler March 2015

Page 2 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

From the Editor’s Desk

We’ve been spoiled. Yes, spoiled.

The amount of sunshine and springlike weather this past week has been a nice foretaste of the spring feast to come.

But I am definitely not complaining!

In fact, I am rejoicing that I can begin to decrease the drastic amount of Vitamin D that has been infiltrating my body every day through a tiny red gel capsule.

Spring. Even the word itself is happy and makes me want to say it, sing it, rap it, shout it and dance to the glorious word.

Confession: While publishing this spring issue, I actually did do a spring dance I became so happy!! It wasn’t anything you’d want to see, I’m sure, but my spirit was rejoicing that the sunshine is coming, along with longer days and more daylight hours.

I think it’s those longer days that has me eyeing every nook and cranny in my house, wondering where in the world all that “stuff” was hiding during the winter months.

It’s quite possible my deep cleaning personality simply hibernates during winter. You know, in order to maintain my lovely girlish figure.

Seriously, my desire to clean the house from top to bottom, taking with it ‘things’ that I really don’t care to have any more is surging through my veins.

I’d hate to admit it to my mother, but I am having serious Spring Cleaning urges already. I think my kids loathe me already...

The Spring Cleaning mode tends to have us eyeing the outside as well

as the inside for our ‘projects’. Those projects that usually include the words home and improvement and project all together.

It causes some people to shudder, and others to jump with glee, but it is home improvement project time nonetheless. And that’s the reason you have this bright and cheery Home Improvement Guide issue in your very hands.

The Home and Garden Show is coming up in late March, and will have plenty of ideas and vendors or contractors to chat with about your own Home Improvement ideas.

My favorite area of home improving is involved in the garden area and landscaping. If I could just play outside for the 9 months of the year where it is relatively warm-ish outside (higher than 50), then I would be such a happy camper.

As reality would have it, I don’t get to spend that much time outside in my gardening, so I’ve become quite adept at finding projects that are simple and don’t require a lot of time committment. Kind of like planting sugar snap peas.

Get soil. Plant peas. Watch peas thrive in our cold and wet spring season. Eat peas before they make it into the house.

All of my family members participate in that process, and we often have to remind ourselves if someone is coming over for a visit to leave them some fresh produce to harvest themselves. Otherwise we’d eat it all.

Nevertheless, whatever your spring projects may be, from home improve-

Publication Information Valley Bugler, LLC

Longview, WA (360)414-1246 www.ValleyBugler.com eMail: editor@valleybugler.com

Editor/Publisher................................Michelle Myre Cover Design / Web Mngr.............omOriginals Marketing! (360)575-9839 Distribution.........................................Diana Jones Advertising Sales.............................Michelle Myre Columnists.........................................Listed below Paddy Burrow - Fruits & Nuts Georgia Butterfield - Adorable Adoptee Georgia Cox - Castle Rock Seniors Ray Miles - Shop Talk - LAST COLUMN....

Oscar Myre IV - Geek Speak Blake Peterson - Movie Reviews PeaceHealth - Living Well /valleybuglernewspaper Laurrie Piland - Baked Lava Pat Nelson - Window to Woodland Mavis Trentham - The Garden Shed **The Valley Bugler newspaper publishes content supplied from the above columnists, and is not responsible for factual mistakes or anything other than the occasional spelling error. The Valley Bugler does not endorse views expressed, but retains a neutral stance on all issues presented.**

www.valleybugler.com

EMAIL: EDITOR@VALLEYBUGLER.COM ment to spring cleaning to just getting outside more often to play, we here at the Bugler wish you a very enjoyable Spring.

Cheers!

Michelle Myre Publisher / Editor

[Chloe update: Chloe is showing some good bone re-growth in her chin/jaw area from the tumor removal. That is SO AWESOME! We are hoping to get a more detailed update on March 9th when she goes in for her first CT scan after surgery. Thank you in advance for your prayers.]

Happy Spring from

The Valley Bugler Newspaper!

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 3

A Taste of Italy, and a delicious one at that...

Columbian Artists 39th Annual Spring Art Show: 3/21-4/12

The Columbian Artists Association 39th Annual Spring Art Show will open Saturday, March 21st and continue through April 12th. The event will be held again this year at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso. Artists’ rePhotos above: Both artwork pieces above ception will be Saturday, March 21st, are finished paintings from this years from 2-4pm, with awards being pre- Featured Artist, Ramona Kmetz Lauson. sented at 3pm.

This judged and juried show brings County. She was inspired by a midin works by talented artists from dle school teacher to pursue studies seven counties in SW Washington in art and took private lessons at an and NW Oregon. The selection of art early age from a Dutch style artist. is wonderfully diverse with awards That influence is reflected in some of presented in categories of Oil, Water, her old master-style paintings. She is and Mixed Media. Last year’s event pretty much self-taught, but has taken drew approximately 40 artists hang- lessons from some area artists. She ing over 100 paintings in a spacious, also does landscapes, portraits and prime location in the Three Rivers still lifes. Some of the area’s murals Mall, just down from Macys. Ap- also bear her name, including one proximately 1,000 visitors signed the of Mt St Helens which was shown in guest book.

National Geographic. Ramona likes A special feature of the Show is to create beauty and inspire imaginaa separate judged art show for high tion. school art students in the LongviewEntries: Open to artists 18 years Kelso area. The Association is and older from Cowlitz, Clark, Wahpleased to offer a venue where these kiakum, Lewis and Pacific Counties art students are introduced to the art in Washington; and Clatsop and Coshow competition experience and of- lumbia Counties in Oregon. fers an opportunity for their art to be Entries accepted on March 16 exhibited for the public’s enjoyment. from 10am – 5pm at the Three RivFeatured artist for this year’s Show ers Mail. Please see the Association is Ramona Kmetz Lauzon. Ramo- website www.columbianartists.org na was born and raised in Cowlitz for all entry information.

At Left: Pioneer Lion volunteers, Ken Botero (far left), Cindy Sessions (left) and Sharon Sisson (right) serve up laughter as a side dish during 2014’s “Taste of Italy” spaghetti dinner fundraising event. Sessions famous spaghetti sauce was a highlight. Photo by Brandon Thompson.

By Michelle Myre It’s time to gather the family, call all the friends, and hit this month’s most fabulous (and appetite satisfying) fundraiser!

A Taste of Italy • March 28th All You Can Eat! [See ad same page for info] Get ready to fill your plates with unlimited pasta, salad and bread.

Longtime Pioneer Lions member, Cindy Sessions, will be making her award-winning secret pasta sauce, so be sure to bring your appetite.

Mark your calendars for March 28th, A Taste of Italy held at the spacious St. Rose Parish Center in Longview from 4:00pm - 8:00pm.

Also at the Taste of Italy, will be a plethora of raffle goodies that you have a good chance of walking away with at the end of the night. That being said, you don’t have to be present to win, so perhaps a winning phone call would be in your future.

Last year there were coveted items, such as a Coach hand bag, Betty Crocker Cooking Set, and a brand

new tool set with toolbox.

This year’s gift baskets are still a secret, and have been lovingly put together or donated by business members of the community, and Pioneer Lions members. One ticket in the raffle equals one entry for the basket of your choice. And there are many. Choices, that is.

So, the more tickets that you put into the basket drawing, the greater your chances of winning. All proceeds go towards the scholarship fund, which the event has been designed for.

The Taste of Italy was created to give back to the student community of Longview. All proceeds from the dinner ticket and raffles are donated to the Pioneer Lions Scholarship program.

Each year, at least a few hundred people show up to take part in supporting a local charity that is giving back to area students.

Last year, over $7,000 was raised, with $3,000 alone from raffle ticket sales. Don’t miss this years yummiest fundraiser in town!

Page 4 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

local hopefuls hit auditions Patiense Andersen - Vocalist Elizabeth Binz - Vocalist McKenna Esteb - Vocalist Rachael Tilton - Vocalist Rain Vanzandt - Hip Hop Dance 5 local hopefuls put it all on the line to stand before a producer or two of the America’s Got Talent auditions on February 9th, with a Valley Bugler Front of the Line ticket in hand.

Probably many others in the area who attended and auditioned as well.

First of all - congratulations! Good job! Incredible effort!

Many people do not realize the extraordinary pressure individuals place on themselves when auditioning for a show such as AGT. The stress. The sweaty palms.

The nervous stomach that won’t stop rolling. The waiting. The wondering.

The way your heart feels like it leaps out of your chest when they call your name to finally audition.

Then the exhilaration of performing at your best. Then the waiting. Oh, the waiting. For McKenna Esteb, sixteen year old auditioner, the waiting was a good opportunity to do some soul searching.

The outcome of all the waiting time was that she did not audition.

“After four hours of waiting, I made the tough decision to not audition.

I realized that I’m not prepared for the kind of commitment required by America’s Got Talent. I’m truly appreciate of this opportunity I was provided, and learned a lot from the experience,” said Esteb.

As of this time, we still do not have a list of those 400 finalists who made it into the show for AGT’s 10th season.

Around 400 acts to be chosen that the judges will see from thousands up thousands of auditions across 14 United States cities.

The odds are high and the chances are slim, but the payoff is great for anyone auditioning.

“Just the experience of being able to audition for something this big was totally worth it,” shared Elizabeth Binz of Renton. “I had this huge fear before, and now I don’t. I’m so glad that I did it!”

Auditions were run “Group style”, where about 7-9 acts went in at the same time, and all performed for their 90 seconds in front of a Producer.

“There was this little paper that you went to go stand on to do your song, and when it was your turn, you went and stood on it and did your thing,” explained eleven year old AGT auditioner Patiense Andersen, while her dad, Jake, nodded in agreement.

Patiense Andersen had practiced

the song ‘The Climb’ by Miley Cyrus for months in anticipation of auditioning for the show.

Jake Andersen hadn’t planned to audition, but said that his daughter’s encouragement eventually won him over, and he auditioned with her, singing ‘In the Still of the Night’, by Boys II Men. The general concensus was people were feeling good about themselves and proud of the audition they put forth. Before they auditioned, many were seen warming up or nervously tapping their paperwork on their laps. Each handes audition preparation differently, as my daughters discovered, since they were working as my ‘interns’ that day while I was on location. Chloe Myre (11) and Cora Myre (9) are shown in the picture at left with one of the hopefuls, Mr. John Green from Tacoma. Apparently, he made quite an impression on the auditioning producer, and landed himself a second audition with a different producer.

Later on in the day, after spending a few minutes interviewing Executive Producer Jason Raff, it was clear that the tone for auditions was light hearted and relaxed. Decked out in jeans and a t-shirt, Raff shared a few of the cool acts that had caught his eye up to that point.

“There was this amazing tumbler, originally from Africa, that totally blew my mind,” he said.

When asked what the producers were looking for in regards to talent, Raff explained that anything goes, and unique is the key. “I once had someone cut hair and they completely rocked it.”

Raff’s eyes lit up as he explained the selection process, with the ultimate prize being able to perform at Radio City Music Hall. Raff exclaimed, “I don’t think it gets any better than that for a performer!”

From singers and guitar players, to one man band performances to dancers and even bubble blowers and air-guitar bands, the people of the Northwest gathered together to share our greatest talents. And the select few will have been chosen and moved onto the middle round of the pruning process: Performing for the Celebrity Judges.

Who knows, maybe we’ll be seeing someone from Southwest Washington giving us a shout out from the television screen of AGT this summer! And if not, we still shout a mighty BRAVO to all who walked through those Tacoma Convention Center doors to give it their all.

In our books, you’re all winners!

Photo at Right: Patiense Andersen (11) stands with dad, Jake Andersen, after giving their 100% to the America’s Got Talent auditions, where they sang. Photo by Michelle Myre. Photo Below: Hip Hop Dancer Rain Vanzandt proudly displays her audition number, sporting some pretty awesome shoes. Photo by her mom, Richelle Durham.

Middle Photo at Right: AGT hopeful Rachael Tilton shows off the excitement of the day with her expression, before being called to sing. Dad, Chuck Tilton, took the photo and also accompanied her on guitar.

Bottom Photo at Right: Elizabeth Binz gathered up the necessary courage and took the plunge in auditioning for the show.

Photo by husband, Kevin Binz.

Photo at Left: (L to R) World Class ranked Accordionist Sam Thomas, mom Pamela Thomas and Front of the Line pass winner McKenna Esteb wait to be called for their audition.

Ultimately, Esteb decided against auditioning, and wished Thomas all the best with his accordion audition.

“He is incredibly talented, and plays the accordion unbelievably,” said Esteb. Maybe we’ll see him on the show! Photo by Lisa Esteb.

“The great Northwest always offers up a ....unique....talent or two for us!” exclaimed Executive Producer Jason Naff. So it did, so it did! Air guitar bands and Bubble Men were just a few of the unique, different and interesting talents on display. ☺

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 5

NATIVE TREE SALE • $1.00 - $3.00 each!

Cowlitz Farm Forestry Association and Cowlitz Conservation District Annual Native Tree sale is Saturday, March 14 from 8am - 4pm and Sunday, March 15 from 10am - 2pm at Bob’s Sporting Goods Parking Lot

by Hudson Street.

The trees will cost between $1 and $3 and are bare root seedlings.

Varieties include: • Douglas fir • Western Red Cedar • Spruce • Wild Rose • Noble fir • Mock Orange • Red Osier Dogwood • many other native tree species.

Sales are on a first come basis until stock is gone. The proceeds are used for Natural Resources youth education such as the Kelso Outdoor School and Envirothon – a high school environmental competition.

This is a good opportunity to obtain native trees and shrubs at a very reasonable price.

The trees are obtained in bulk quantities from a nursery in Oregon and a local Longview nursery. Because most people can’t use a bag of 100 trees, we sell them individually. People can pick one or two trees from all the different kinds available.

However, if you are interested in large quantity of trees, a good source is the Forest Seedling Network website.

ForestSeedlingNetwork.com Many of the native species available are good for soil erosion or to help stabilize banks. By planting shrubs or trees accustomed to the Pacific Northwest, people are getting a good guarantee for their money.

Besides giving landowners an opportunity to purchase native seedlings, the sale proceeds are used for scholarships to local youngsters to attend natural resources camp such as Kelso Outdoor School and environmental training programs.

The Cowlitz Farm Forestry Association contributes to the Southwest Washington Envirothon competition.

The Envirothon is an annual competition for high school students. The

event goal is to provide students a hands-on competition that will challenge students to observe and problem solve in five stations: aquatics, forestry, soils/lands use, current issue, and wildlife.

For more information on this program contact Lisa Martin, Cowlitz Conservation District 360-425-1880.

Tree Seedling Planting Tips: The most important rule of thumb is “If they dry, they die” on the way from your purchase to home, and before you choose to plant. Transport the seedlings very carefully, and plant promptly. Ideally same day.

If your seedling has gel around its roots, do not shake it off. It helps.

1. Pick the right tree for the space and environment. Many species can grow very large, and so can their roots.

2. Plant your tree right: Keep seedlings roots covered and moist, preferrably inside a plastic bag covered with a wet cloth until ready to plant.

3. Roots should barely touch the bottom of the dug hole and not pressed against the ground. You should plant to the depth of the first branch, which means some of the visible “stalk” will be buried as well.

4. Use natural soil and do not fertilize.

5. Provide protection from munching animals and the environment with using tubing or bud caps. You might need a barrier.

6. Try using mulch around the seedling as a way of giving the soil good moisture control and nutrients.

7. Enjoy your new baby tree!

WELCOME! MARCH 20TH

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Annual Fundraising Banquet & Auction March 14th RMEF BANQUET • March 14th It’s time to gear up and get ready to enjoy one of the most anticipated fundraisers of the season - the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet.

Firearms, High Quality Merchandise, and FUN await those attending.

Located at the Cowlitz County Expo Center, this will be a fast paced, high energy banquet, and the winning will begin as soon as the doors open at 4:30pm.

Military heroes have a special raffle just for them. Additional special raffles will have you salivating for more.

Why do we do this? 90% of funds go directly to the mission of helping ensure the future of wild elk and our hunting lifestyle.

Things tend to get a little lively and it only happens one night per year, so don’t miss it!

Call: (360)425-9611 Dan Howell

or (360)636-6148 Randy Hall http://rmef.org The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s mission is ‘ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage’.

Founded in 1984 by four hunters from Troy, Montana, who wanted to ensure a future for North America’s grandest game animal.

There are now over 500 chapters across the country.

Lincoln Day Dinner • 4/11/15 The Annual Republican Lincoln Day Dinner is proud to showcase three featured speakers at this years event: Alan Keyes, Keynote Speaker and one of the greatest orators of our time, Keyes has long been recognized for his leadership within the conservative movement. Keyes is an unwavering defender of the American people’s sovereignty through his focus on securing our borders, abolishing federal income tax and more. He served as a high-level diplomat during Ronald Reagan’s presidency.

Featured speaker KrisAnne Hall is an attorney, author and former prosecutor, fired after teaching the Constitution to TEA Party groups - she would not sacrifice liberty for a paycheck. A disabled veteran of the US Army, a Russian linguist, mother, pastor’s wife and a patriot. She now travels and

teaches the Constitution and the history behind our founding documents.

Featured speaker Matt Shea, is a Washington State Representative, and committed to The Freedom Agenda. The most successful slate of conservative legislation in Washington state in 20 years, based on defending the Constitution, property rights, gun ownership, veterans, and the sanctity of human life while promoting lower taxes, less government and more freedom. He is also an attorney, veteran and small business owner.

You can hear these three great speakers at the Annual Lincoln Day Dinner, held at the Cowlitz Expo Center on April 11th. $60.00 per person prior to March 16th, and $75.00 after. Register online: CowlitzCountyRepublicanParty.com

Page 6 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

Heart Health Action Step SUBMITTED BY GEORGIA COX MARCH EVENTS Every Monday: Our infamous Cinnamon Rolls and coffee will be served to the public from 10am to NOON. Suggested donation is only $1.50 for these delicious concessions. A great way to start your week!

Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday: Get that heart rate up and get healthy with the exercise classes from 9:30am to 10:30am!

Facts show that exercise helps keep your body healthy and functioning as well as possible.

Make it one of your New Year resolutions to come join us if you haven’t already!

Every 1st & 3rd Tuesday: “Write your Life Story”, and will meet in the Center from 1:00pm - 3:00pm.

Every Wednesday: CAP offers Nutrition Meals for Seniors at the Center at NOON. Suggested donation is $3.00, but PLEASE call #636-2118 (by Monday) for reservations. *Paper Tole classes will be held from 1:00pm - 3:00pm.

Every Thursday: Fun Quilting projects will take place from 12pm

to 3pm and Pinochle games are played in the Center later at 7pm and is open to all who are interested, so bring your game!

Every Friday: Lunches by reservation only, will be served in the Center at NOON. Must Reserve by calling 274-7502 by Monday.

Every Saturday: BINGO games are played from 1pm - 3pm, get ready to have some fun, and bring your best game face.

SPECIAL EVENTS: Tuesday, March 10th: Join us as we welcome Nancy Chennault from “America in Bloom” group, as she will present a program on what the group did in 2014 and their plans for 2015, beginning at 11:00am and followed by a potluck lunch at high NOON. This presentation should prove to be colorful and spring-like. Please come and join us.

Thursday, March 19th: Commodities will be distributed from 10am - 1pm. Have a valid punch card.

Castle Rock Senior Center 222 - 2nd Ave Castle Rock, WA (360)274-7502

Every day of your life, you march to the beat of your own special drummer: your heart. To help keep your personal percussionist in tiptop shape in 2015 and beyond, give these suggestions a try.

Chill out. Stress can lead to high blood pressure, inactivity, overeating and smoking. All of this is hard on your heart. For healthy stress relief, spend at least 15 minutes a day engaged in a hobby or other activity that makes you happy.

Measure up. Excess body weight, particularly in your belly, can strain your heart. If you’re a woman, work to whittle down your middle if it’s more than 35 inches around. For men, more than 40 inches is a red flag.

Make a fist. Too much of even the best foods can make you pack on pounds. To control portions and avoid overeating, downsize your dinner plates. Then keep individual servings to between ½ and 1 cup, or about the size of a woman’s fist.

Laugh a lot. Laughter lowers stress, reduces inflammation in the arteries and even increases HDL— the good cholesterol. So read a few jokes or watch a funny movie and LOL! Be a social butterfly. Lonely people are at increased risk for high blood pressure. To lower yours, make some new connections: Join a book club, volunteer at a senior center or start a neighborhood hiking group.

Have a pet. Spending time with a four-footed friend may lower your

blood pressure and your heart rate.

If your best friend is a canine, you’ll be out walking more—and making new social connections. And no matter its species, a pet can fill your heart with joy.

Go fish. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish help protect your heart. Twice a week, grill or bake a 3.5-ounce serving.

Kick the habit. Did you know smoking can rob you of HDL cholesterol—the kind that helps protect your heart? It’s never too late to try a smoking cessation program. Your doctor can help.

Get grainy. Swapping refined grains for whole grains may lower your risk of heart disease by roughly 25 percent. There are plenty of delicious, easy-to-prepare options, from whole-wheat pasta to unsalted popcorn.

Take a walk. Brisk walks help your heart just as much as jogging. The more steps you take each week, the greater the health benefits. Try to walk 30 minutes on most days.

Sleep tight. Getting enough shut-eye is important to cardiovascular health. For most adults, that means sleeping six to eight hours each and every night.

Shake the salt. Most of the sodium that’s raising Americans’ blood pressure comes from processed foods. So read food packages, and choose those labeled low-sodium.

By PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center. Find more great health information and tips online: peacehealth.org/healthy-you

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 7

Community Forum - you’re invited Improving Your Serve

Recently I became aware of some wonderful free classes offered at our local Goodwill Training Center in Longview and at WorkSource in Kelso. I signed up and have been learning Computer Basics! And Conflict Resolution. And Communication in the Workplace. And Customer Service. And Attitude and Life Balance. And Professionalism. The Goodwill also offers training in several contemporary fields: Custodial; Computers; Logistics & Warehousing; and Construction.

I’ve always enjoyed shopping at Goodwill. And now I enjoy going to their training center too. I am so amazed at the wonderful resources available in our community.

Goodwill helps teen drop-outs get their GED and find training and employment. They help senior citizens learn new skills and become computer savvy. They help returning Veterans re-enter the workforce. They help homeless people find shelter and training for employment. They help qualified workers with disabilities perform reliable work for local employers. Pretty much, if you walk

through their door and ask if they have a way to help you learn something that will help you be more productive, they will try to help you.

Me? I really wanted to learn how to do Craig’s List! The first day of class at WorkSource, Bill Karnahan, the Goodwill computer teacher, helped me understand Craig’s List and I went right home and listed ten things on Craig’s List! I was ecstatic! Now, I can have “little garage sales” all year - online. Yay! How about YOU? What do you want to learn? Are you a Life Long Learner just waiting to learn the next thing so you can make a contribution to your community?

Give Goodwill a call at 360-5018340 or drop in to visit their training facility located at 1030 15th Av in Longview, WA. 98632. Ask how they can help you help others. By learning how to improve the way you serve others, it may put a spring in your step and make this next chapter of your life the best one yet!

Paddy Burrow invites your feedback. eMail her at: paddy.burrow@gmail.com or call her at (360)751-5231

On March 6, from 12:00-2:00pm, Cowlitz AmeriCorps Network will host our Annual Community Forum.

This is a time that we invite the community and former and present host sites to discuss our focus areas in a round table format.

Please join us to give feedback on the following topics: Education, Veterans/Military Families, Economic Opportunities, Community Needs/ Environment, Healthy Futures and

Disaster Services.

We also make available the new host site applications for the 2015/16 term of service that will start in September. If you are interested in hosting an AmeriCorps member to serve at your non-profit or school please join us on March 6. We hope that anyone interested in learning more about our service organization and how the team is making a difference in Cowlitz County will attend.

Spell-ebration 2015 Adult Spelling Bee Friday, March 6th, 2015 Spelling Bee begins @ 7pm at the Kelso Theater Pub Limited to 20 teams this year so register now! Put together a team and be part of an evening filled with fun, costumes, unusual words and names of local places, and friendly competition!

Come in costume (or not) and together - we’ll help our community!

Proceeds go to scholarships, Stageworks NW, Habitat for Humanity, graduation baskets for Emergency Support Shelter and other community projects.

Come and cheer on the local

teams for $8 Ticket (includes a slice of pizza!)

Registration form is found at Banda’s Bouquet at 1414 Commerce.

Must be 18 or older to be on a team.

For questions contact: Diane Perron @ 360-520-9673 dperron@cowlitzhabitat.org Brought to you by Altrusa International of Cowlitz County, also known as The Breakfast Bunch.

The 2015 Heart & Stroke Walk PeaceHealth St. John is calling on Cowlitz County to create a culture of health and physical activity to live longer, heart healthy lives!

Join us on Saturday, May 9, 2015 on Lake Sacajawea for the Heart & Stroke Walk – a 5k (3.1 mile), noncompetitive walk inspiring healthy behaviors while raising funds to help fight heart disease and stroke, our nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers.

(FREE REGISTRATION) Festival opens at 8:30am and the walk begins at 9:30am.

Residents and community members are invited to form teams and raise up donations for the cause. This is a fundraising event for the American Heart Association, but the registration is free.

The goal is to gather a large team and get donations to help support your team as they walk their way around the Lake during the 5K. For more information, to donate, to form a new team or join an existing team, please visit: portlandheartwalk.kintera.org/phsj

Thank you for Reading! Show our Advertisers support and let them know you saw their ads here in The Valley Bugler!

Page 8 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

Community and Family Sing Rodman’s Praises

By Pat Nelson Valley Bugler Columnist Maxine Rodman was named Woodland’s 2014 Citizen of the Year at the Jan. 24 banquet held at the Heathman Lodge, Vancouver. Each year, the award is presented to honor a citizen for community service.

Maxine was born Maxine Culver March 20, 1928, in Spokane, Washington, where she was adopted at six weeks of age. Her birth mother asked that someone with musical talent raise her baby, and she got her wish. Maxine got a piano at age six and an accordion at age 10, and she still has both.

She married Howard Rodman June 3, 1950. “Music brought us together,” said Maxine. “We didn’t have anything else in common.” She and Howard sang together on a radio show sponsored by Washington Water and Power Company.

The couple moved to Woodland in the 60s to serve as caretakers for the Presbyterian camp on Cardai Hill. Maxine had been raised an

only child but ended up with a large family of five children and one foster son, 13 grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren.

The family lived on a farm on South Pekin Road, raising animals, fruit trees and gardens, and sharing what they raised with others. The other thing they shared was music, one of Maxine’s loves since early childhood.

She taught music at the Woodland elementary school for 21 years. During that time, she only had a music room for one year. The rest of the time, she traveled from room to room every half-hour to teach music. Maxine has played piano for many weddings, funerals, church programs and worship services. She volunteered as a music teacher at the Woodland Christian School for five years, where she served as Chairman of the Board. Maxine loved celebrating birthdays at the assisted living center with sing-alongs, where she would play her accordion or the piano. She favored the accordion so that she

Above from Left to Right: Erica Rodman and grandmother Maxine Rodman.

would not have her back to the audience.

Maxine taught Sunday School and was a Vacation Bible School director.

She was a Cub Scout den mother for eight years. She also assisted with the father-daughter ball for many years and helped with the reading program at the Woodland Intermediate School. She served on the Horseshoe Lake Committee for nine years and volunteered at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.

Granddaughter Erica Rodman (pictured above, sitting at left of Maxine

Rodman, standing at right) and other family members celebrated with Maxine at the Heathman Lodge when she was presented Woodland’s Citizen of the Year award. Erica said her grandmother gave all the and grandkids music lessons.

“They were taught everything from technique to performance. It is a privilege to live in the same community as my grandmother,” said Erica.

“Her legacy with her family and her community is music. My grandmother is always doing for others, and her acts of kindness are selfless. She has set an incredible example, and I look up to her.

She is a light to everyone in her family.”

Woodland Mayor Grover Laseke, when presenting Maxine Rodman’s award, said, “Maxine Rodman is truly deserving of this honor and is a crown jewel of the Woodland community.”

[Above Photo by Pat Nelson] Pat Nelson, is co-creator of three humorous and sometimes edgy anthologies: ‘Not Your Mother’s Book: On Being a Parent’ (Amazon.com & retailers); On Being a Grandparent; and On Working for a Living.

Kalama Library Book Sale Shop for books at the Kalama Friends of the Library sale on March 20th from 9 to 4:30 at the city hall council chambers 320 N 1st street in Kalama.

Paperbacks for 50 cents, hardbacks $1, plus children books and other special items. Come and get your supply of books!

Come and enjoy Storytime at the Kalama library every wednesday at 11 am. Reading, crafts, friends and fun.

A few funnies JOB DESCRIPTION A passenger jet was suffering through a severe thunderstorm.

As the passengers were being bounced around by the turbulence a young woman turned to a minister sitting next to her and with a nervous laugh asks, “Reverend, you’re a man of God, can’t you do something about this storm?”

To which he replies, “Lady, I’m in marketing, not management.”

STUDIOUS EXERCISE PROGRAM I always do my exercises regularly in the morning.

Immediately after waking I sternly say to myself, “Ready, now. Up. Down. Up. Down.” And after two strenuous minutes I tell myself, “Okay, now try the other eyelid.”

COLORFUL MEAL Over dinner, the mom explained the health benefits of a colorful meal to her family.

“The more colors, the more variety of nutrients,” she told them. Pointing to the food, she asked, “How many different colors do you see?”

“Six,” volunteered the son. “Seven if you count the burned parts.”

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 9

Memory Cafe t March 20th t 2pm Memory Cafe, a time for those with memory loss, their care partners and those who worry about memory problems.

Flash back to tunes from the 50s and dress the part too! This will be a fun social time for all with refresh-

ments, door prizes and music. Held at the Kelso Longview Elks at 900 Ash Street in Kelso, please call the Canterbury Gardens to RSVP by March 16: (360)423-2200 Limited Seating, so please RSVP to ensure your space to join us.

COUPON t CU5 t CAL- t SAVE ...aOE don’U misT thF GantastiD homF improvemenU speciaM offFS GroN ChehalJT SheeU MetaM oO p.14!

Redmen Hall open for season 3/5

Friends of Skamokawa at Redmen Hall will be opening for the season on Thursday March 5th with our 4th Annual Antique Sale. Our Archivist, Keith Hoofnagle, has scoured Barns and Attics bringing forth a wonderful treasure trove of antiques.

March 5 & 6, 12 & 13: 10am to 4pm March 7 & 8, 14 & 15: 12am to 4pm.

Two floors of good treasures, so come and enjoy. We are located in beautiful Skamokawa, Washington at 1394 W.SR 4.

For info: (Mondays only) #795-3007

Central

Page 10 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

Movie Reviews

By Blake Peterson

‘Paddington’

Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins Directed by Paul King Running Time 1 Hr., 35 Mins., PG My Rating: A

“I like the bear,” a little girl exclaimed behind me during the first few minutes of “Paddington.” The delighted reaction took me by surprise. The farther I drift away from childhood and the longer I avoid interacting with elementary-aged children, there is a tendency to forget that something as simple as bear can bring such joy to someone so young.

There is such a thing as kids movies and family movies, after all. These days, family movies try as hard as they can to appeal to the kiddos and their parents; maybe studio heads know how excruciating it can be to sit through a particularly painful foray into baby-talk and recycled jokes. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that family films please more routinely than any other category in film.

But most children’s films are entertaining for the time being, not having enough quality to have an impact for more than a few months. “Paddington” is much too marvelous to throw around the effective cliché that it has something for the kids and something for the adults; like “Babe,” “The Muppets,” and yes, even “Frozen,” it transcends our prejudiced assumptions and takes us inside a fairy tale where

anything can happen. It doesn’t matter what age we are; it is as if you could throw dust into the air, only to find it fall in a golden flurry. “Paddington” shouldn’t work, but it does.

Paddington the Bear is already a beloved literary figure, of course, but when we first meet him in his own star vehicle, it is as though he is new again. As the film begins, we find him living in Darkest, Peru with his aunt and uncle (Imelda Staunton and Michael Gambon), both of whom are marmalade obsessed and intelligent enough to speak in cultured British accents. The film explains this noteworthy phenomenon: decades earlier, an explorer arrived in Peru, and, smitten with the bears otherworldly craftiness, taught them how to act as if they were civilized human beings.

After tragedy strikes, Paddington’s aunt decides that it would be best if her nephew went to find a home in London. When he arrives at a train station, most disregard his exuberant politeness, but not Mrs. Brown (Sally Hawkins). Her family looks at him with differing levels of judgment, especially her husband (Hugh Bonneville), but the Browns pity him, eventually deciding to take him in.

While Paddington may have inimitable manners, he surely isn’t gifted when it comes to gracefulness.

Wreaking havoc seems to be his specialty. Most would give him up, but with his considerable charm to make up

for his klutziness, he even wins over Mr. Brown. But just as things begin to look up into storybook heaven, Millicent Clyde (a scene-stealing Nicole Kidman) enters the scene, a bloodthirsty taxidermist who wants nothing more than to stuff Paddington for her latest exhibit.

With its candy-colored imagery and bouncy humor, “Paddington” is impossible to resist. Voiced by the genial Ben Whishaw, Paddington is a fluffy friend for the ages, more cuddly and comical than “Despicable Me”’s famed Minions. The CGI used to flesh him out is so convincing that there were a number of times where I forgot that Paddington is an outright

miracle of animation, not a real-life talent I could meet on the red carpet.

There you have it. “Paddington” doesn’t need an analysis, nor does it need a critic to highlight how much of a wonder it is. It is an unusually magical and well-crafted family movie that needs to be watched immediately.

Take your mom, take your dad, take your sister, take your brother — take anybody. Because, like the little girl who sat behind me during its extraordinary 95 minutes, I too, like the bear.

A student of R. A. Long, Blake is an aspiring film critic that enjoys music, movies and art.

For more reviews, go to: petersonreviews.com

Kwilts for Kids - community ties together Left: (L to R) Cameron Carson, Sarah Hancock, and Frank Morrison stand in front of the large donation brought to the Community House and The Emergency Support Shelter. The 2015 Kiwanis Kwilts for Kids blanket drive netted over 100 hand-tied fleece blankets, as well as a variety of microfiber and actual quilt blankets.

Photo by Kathleen Johnson.

Photos Below: These three photos catch Three Rivers Christian School Key Club members in the giving act of volunteering their time to help tie blankets from material donated by the Valley Bugler. From left: Natalie Ransom; Kessa Portwood and Alicia Hillger, and Nicki Royce. Photos

by Carol Karns, Advisor for Three Rivers Christian School Key Club.

Upon final delivery, the 2015 Kiwanis of Kelso Kwilts for Kids blanket drive netted over 100 hand-tied fleece blankets, as well as a variety of microfiber and actual quilt blankets.

Acknowlegement for going the extra mile and providing multiple blankets needs to go to the members of the Pleasant Hill Grange, Amalak (Kalama’s Womens group), Rick Von Rock, Kiwanis of Kelso members, as well as the Three Rivers Christian School Key Club members who tied many of the donated materials and to Michelle Myre from the Valley Bugler who shipped blanket material from the Seattle area.

There are many other individuals who brought in hand made quilts to the Senior Center in Kelso from

throughout Cowlitz County.

The blankets were presented to Community House on Broadway and the Emergency Support Shelter to be distributed to this area’s homeless and domestic violence affected children.

Frank Morrison and Cameron Carson represented Community House on Broadway and Sarah Hancock represented The Emergency Support Shelter. Kathleen Johnson chaired the event for Kiwanis of Kelso.

‘May the Irish hills caress you.

May her lakes and rivers bless you.

May the luck of the Irish enfold you.

May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.’ ~Irish Blessing

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 11

He’s everyone’s ‘Saint Patrick’ Every year when March 17 rolls around, the “wearing of the green” is the order of the day.

Both Irish and non-Irish celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Many people think that St. Patrick was Irish, when indeed it is not verifiable where he originated from. Most scholars believe, based on his own writings, that he was originally from southwestern Britain.

Keep in mind this is during the 5th Century, and people living in present day English were Romanized Celts, or Britons. So, St. Patrick is more along the lines of a Celtic Briton, son of a low-level Roman official.

Others believed that he was actually born closer to Scotland, probably in Kilpatrick. The year was 385AD. At about fourteen years old, he was captured during a raiding party and taken to Ireland as a slave to herd and tend sheep.

Ireland at this time was a land of Druids and pagans.

He learned the language and practices of the people who held him captive.

During captivity, he turned to God in prayer. He wrote: “The love of God and his fear grew in me more and more, as did the faith, and my soul was rosed, so that, in a single day, I have said as may as a hundred prayers and in the night nearly the same. I prayed in the woods and on the mountain, even before dawn. I felt no hurt from the snow or ice or rain”.

Captivity lasted until his was twenty, when he escaped after having a dream from God where he was told to leave Ireland by going to the coast. He found some sailors who took him back home and he reunited with his family.

He had another dream where the people of Ireland were calling out to him, “We beg you, holy youth, to come and walk among

us once more”.

So, he began his priesthood studies, was ordained a bishop and sent to take the Gospel to Ireland. Kings, their families, and entire kingdoms converted to Christianity when they heard Patrick’s message of the Gospel.

Patrick preached and worked in Ireland as a minister for over forty years. There were many miracles and he wrote about his journeys often.

St. Patrick died March 17th, 461AD, after years of living in poverty and traveling in poor health and suffering greatly.

Most revelers know the oftentold stories of St. Pat. The Patron Saint of Ireland, that he explained the Blessed Trinity using a shamrock, and he drove the snakes out of Ireland (of course the debate goes on about whether there were snakes in Ireland).

There is no record of him using a shamrock to explain Christianity, but the legend has prevailed through the test of time. Some missionary, if not Patrick himself, very likely Christianized the concept.

This doesn’t seem to bother those in Ireland, and the shamrock remains the Irish National symbol.

But do you know some of the more obscure facts and stories about Saint Patrick that you can share during your own celebration? * He is also the Patron Saint of Nigeria. Nigeria was evangelized primarily by Irish clergy and the people took St. Patrick to their hearts. * He left behind some writings. His own words may be read, either in the original Latin or in English translation, in his spiritual autobiographical “Confession.” This piece is a unique peek at the man behind the legend. His famous prayer “St. Patrick’s Breast Plate” may date to a

later period. * Though Scotland has often been set as the birthplace of Patrick, England, Wales, and a portion of France also lay claim.

Many places also claim to be the burial spot of the famous saint.

One such tradition says that he is buried in the same grave as St. Bridget and St. Columba at Downpatrick, County Down in Ireland. * If you would like your toast to be different on St. Patrick’s Day, you can drink to Maewyn Succat (believed to be his real name) or to Patricius or Patrizio as he was also known.

So on March 17th, be sure to wish everyone a “Happy Saint Patrick’s Day” either in English or the Gaelic “La Fheile Padraig

Sona Duit.” Pronounced phoentically: Lah Feheye-lee Pah-Drayg Sonah Doo-eet.

How the Irish do St. Patrick’s Day While many revelers who wear the green on March 17th think of Saint Patrick festivities involving turning the Chicago River green and marching down 5th Avenue in Manhattan, Ireland herself throws a grand Saint Patrick’s Day party.

Cork’s St. Patrick’s Festival held their inaugural event in 2005 Dublin also throws a huge St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. Besides the annual parade, Dublin offers a treasure hunt, a cavalcade of vintage cars, street arts, music, theater, and dance.

Page 12 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 13

This annual Guide is full of tips, tricks and handy dandy suggestions to help with your own Home Improvement Projects!

Thank you to our Home Improvement Guide Sponsors: Longview Columbia Contractor’s Association & Chehalis Sheet Metal

Be sure to hit the 2015 Home & Garden Show this year for plenty of free classes and vendor specials March 21st: 9am - 6pm March 22nd: 10am - 5pm Admission: $2 or 2 cans food (See ad opposite page) It’s that time of the year when thousands upon thousands of local residents descend upon the Cowlitz Expo Center for the Home & Garden Show, put on by the Lower Columbia Contractor’s Association.

Hundreds of vendors display their wares and offer specials only found at the H&G Show, offering everything from fresh flowers and landscaping supplies to roofing materials and bids. In short, just about everyone will find something to satisfy their Spring project palate.

Teaming up with the Washington State University Master Gardener’s program, the H&G Show will offer free classes and workshops on vari-

ous subjects that any NW Native could hope for regarding gardening.

(Classes listed at the end of this article) The Home & Garden Show charges a $2 admission OR 2 cans of food.

All of which is donated to a local food bank charity. The amount of free giveaways and service discounts more than makes up for the entrance fee.

The Lower Columbia Contractor’s Association represents over 200 local area businesses, many of whom will be offering their services and products for your inspection.

The Home & Garden Show is the perfect place to come and get quotes for home repairs, discover new products and see the latest models of air conditioners or roofing materials.

Whether you are looking to find a

Create a trendy terrarium for your home with these tips: The trendy terrarium can be a colorful garden under glass Gardeners who can’t wait for their outdoor projects to blossom are taking a new tack for bringing greenery and flowers into their homes.

They’re building terrariums. The trend has prompted garden centers to show them off and to stock appropriate materials, containers and plants.

Even people who famously lack a green thumb can be successful terrarium builders. These gardens require minimal care and even thrive on neglect. After they’re planted, all you do is give them a little water every few weeks and keep them out of direct sunlight.

Glass bowls and containers are typically chosen for terrariums, but the plantings will be successful in almost any kind of container. You can even use a bell jar or tall glass jar with a fancy cover. A covered unit works just fine and requires even less moisture.

Terrariums need no drainage, so skip the pots with holes that you use for container gardening or houseplants.

At the garden center, buy five 2-

and 4-inch pots of baby plants like mosses, ferns, jade, kalanchoes, African violets, palms, snake plant and peperomias. Or pick a grouping of succulents.

With the new popularity of terrariums, greenhouses are growing genetically small plants.

Start with a 12-inch-wide, 6-inch deep glass bowl. Buy small bags of horticultural gravel, activated charcoal, potting mix, wood chips and 5 small plants.

Wash and dry the container. Place a half-inch layer of gravel for drainage on the bottom. Sprinkle a few pieces of charcoal over it to prevent souring.

Add a layer of potting soil 2 to 3 inches deep, leaving at least 1 inch below the rim of the container.

Before setting a plant, soften and spread the root ball and open it up a little in the middle for good root growth. Place the five plants in the potting mix and sprinkle with wood chips in places. Don’t cover the soil entirely.

Add decorative accents like seashells, tiny ceramic animals or an elf.

Put a few drops of water around each root ball.

new landscape artist for your front yard to increase curb appeal, or talk to some roofing specialists about your leaky ceiling, the Home & Garden Show is where you’ll find your answers.

non-aggressive and docile. They become active in early spring when apple and pear trees begin flowering.

The class covers management, bee biology and management of pests.

12:30pm - How to sharpen your tools with WSU Master Gardener Dale Hurley. Learn how to sharpen your tools so that they work for you and with you, as well as shorten your work and make chores easier.

H&G Show Class Schedule: Saturday, March 21st 9:00am - Preparing your vegetable garden with WSU Master Gardener Jon Griffin. Find out what to do in your vegetable garden to prepare it for planting. You will learn when to plant, how to start early and what it takes to maintain healthy plants to ensure a healthy harvest.

11:00am - Mason Bees with WSU Master Gardener Billie Bevers. Discuss skills needed for raising Mason Bees. Orchard Mason Bees are highly effective pollinators that are very

H&G Show Class Schedule: Sunday, March 22nd 11:00am - Lawn care with Professional groundskeeper and WSU Master Gardener Bryan Iverson.

Discuss proper techniques in lawn maintenance, including watering, fertilizing, weed control and mowing, as well as preparing for new lawn.

12:00pm - Tips to control moles with WSU Master Gardener Bryan Iverson. Learn which techniques are the most effective at ridding those pesky critters. What works and what fails will be a main point of learning.

Page 14 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

Time for a new roof? Been drooling over a heat pump or new windows? Chehalis Sheet Metal delivers.

“Installers were courteous, respectful, friendly and understandable.

Overall, I’m extremely happy and satisfied. Thank you!!”

- Michelle G., WA Comments such as the one above are the norm for our Home Improvement Guide Sponsor, Chehalis Sheet Metal, a local company that offers Heating & Cooling and Roofing services in Cowlitz, Lewis and Thurston counties.

And you know the best companies are the ones that let their customers speak for them.

Consistently rated in the top of their field, Chehalis Sheet Metal has

a reputation in good standing with referral sites such as Angie’s List and The Better Business Bureau.

When asked what their secret was to maintaining such a high approval rating, Marketing Coordinator Sharon Tisler provided the simple answer: “We aim to please.”

It seems such a simple statement, but one that is loaded with huge expectations and responsibilities.

This belief of aiming to please has carried the company through over fifty years of successful business.

After all, just take a look at all of the testimonials on their web site and at Angie’s List, or on FaceBook. www.ChehalisSheetMetal.com Chehalis Sheet Metal offers Trane Heat Pumps, Air Handlers, Ductless

Systems, Thermostats, Generators, Duct Cleaning, Home Energy Audits, Roofing, Siding, Windows, Exterior Doors and even Emergency Services.

If you are interested in learning more about these services, just visit their web site and click on the “Services” link. That page will provide descriptions and links to specific items or services that you are needing.

As shown on their ad on this page, Chehalis Sheet Metal is offering a special Home Improvement offer of $250.00 off any Heating and Cooling system, and $1,000.00 off a ReRoofing project. These specials will

not be available after April 31st, so if you are in the market for Heating/ Cooling or a new roof, then call them for your Free Estimate, and tell them you saw it detailed here in the Valley Bugler.

A special thank you to Chehalis Sheet Metal for helping Sponsor this Home Improvement Guide. Without sponsors and advertisers such as them, this paper would not be possible.

Chehalis Sheet Metal (360)748-9221 (800)201-9221 ChehalisSheetMetal.com Photos provided by Chehalis Sheet Metal.

Tips for purchasing a Heat Pump After you’ve already answered the very important question of whether or not a heat pump is right for your home, these next tips will help you narrow the search.

1. Look for Energy Star models.

This will potentially save you money through your electric bill and potential tax credits in the hundreds of dollars.

2. Do your homework on what refrigerant the heat pump utilizes for heat transfer. Most models today have moved from R22 (freon) to a more environmentally sustainable re-

frigerant.

3. Look for heat pumps that offer variable speed or dual speed motors on blowers or outdoor fans, which helps maintain consistent air velocity and saves money with energy.

4. Compare the 2 types of compressors available with your budget and their provided returns.

5. If noise control is an issue, be sure to look at the noise-reducing options available for your unit.

Talk things over with a professional before making a final decision.

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 15

New tile floor gives a dated bathroom a modern look The bathroom is the most-used room in the house. With high traffic and high moisture, the floor begins to show its age after ten or 15 years.

One good thing about replacing it is that the room is small. That means you can choose highquality materials and not have a huge amount of money or a great deal of time invested.

Here’s some advice from Lowe’s, the home improvement store: Tile comes in ceramic, porcelain, stone, and mosaic. Any of these choices will give you a great range of possibilities for color, style, and pattern.

Ceramic comes in many colors and shapes that make it easy to create patterns and features, such as a border or center medallion.

Porcelain is a denser tile and offers superior resistance to mold and stains.

Stone-look porcelain looks very much like real stone.

Natural Stone is available in marble,

granite, limestone and slate. It’s more expensive but has an outstanding appearance and comes in many colors.

When considering tile, leaf through design books and home magazines.

Your personal preferences will narrow your choices.

You might decide to take the project a step farther with a new tub surround or elegant tile wainscote.

If you have the time and skill, you could install the new floor yourself. First remove the old floor down to the subflooring. Then screw down sheets of cement-fiber tilebacker to create a solid underlayment.

Lay out tiles along the room’s center lines, and cut the tiles to fit up to the walls. Then spread adhesive with a notched trowel and press the tile into place. The next day, mix grout and spread it into the gaps.

Too much work and worry? Professional installation costs more but could produce a more perfect job.

Avoid Bamboo like the plague!

My first encounter with bamboo was at my husband’s grandparents place. I commented how beautiful it was, while grandpa sadly shook his white haired head.

You could be tempted to plant a stand of bamboo between your yard and a neighbors.

It grows fast, is environmentally friendly and would give you privacy.

Be careful. Clumping Bamboo is not invasive, but as I learned from Grandpa, Running Bamboo spreads relentlessly. Its roots are extremely hard, and it is oblivious to herbicides like Roundup. You can shoot it, dig it, poison it, or plow it with a bulldozer, but you may never be able to get rid of it. And it can spread to the neighbors’ yards. Oh yes. And you don’t want to give your neighbors any more reasons to despise you, right?

Running Bamboo is beautiful, so people plant it anyway. If you are

determined to do so, please read these little tips that you will save you a lot of headaches.

At Bamboo Gardener in Seattle, they recommend encasing the planting area with highdensity polyethylene sheeting sunk 2 1/2 feet into the ground. It must be 80 mil, about half an inch thick, so bamboo can’t pierce through it.

Because, bamboo is technically a giant grass. Yes, grass. And even with the sheeting and concrete barriers, bamboo has been known to throw roots around them.

Horticulturists at the University of Maryland say the applying of weed killer at precise times can kill bamboo, but their advice is simply not to plant it.

Consider planting alternatives, such as the grassy-like Carex, or sedges and evergreen conifers such as ‘Green Giant’ thuja, “Emerald Green’ arborvitae and Leyland cypress.

Page 16 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

By Mavis Trentham Valley Bugler Columnist The bones may be creaking and the joints complaining, but that won’t stop the glorious feeling that SPRING brings forth!

This month of March brings us longer days, hopefully more sunshine and of course, spring. It also brings with it a whole host of busy activity that those of us who enjoy digging around in the ground can attest to.

Each month I’ll be sharing about what gardens and yards may be needing tended, as well as some tips I’ve got up my sleeve.

For March, let’s talk a bit about ground preparation and throw in a bit of the Irish with planting our peas and potatoes on St. Patty’s Day. 1) Mulch & Compost If you haven’t already planned on a good mulch (weed barrier and soil builder) for this year to surround your

flower beds and garden areas, then hop to it. A few mulches to consider: wood chips, shredded bark, newspaper, straw, black plastic, grass clippings and pine needles. Before surrounding plants with a chosen mulch, do a snippet of research concerning what that type of plant prefers. For instance, putting an acidic pine needle mulch around a base-loving plant could prove disastrous.

My preferred method of weed barrier is actually using old (wet) newspaper, about 5-6 layers thick, on top of a layer of compost. Then I top those with a nice visual type of mulch, such as wood chips or bark. If I’m not using bark or wood chips and I am not worried about if it looks nice, then I end up throwing my grass clippings on it throughout the summer. A layer of wet newspaper (5-6 pages thick) with a layer of grass clippings works nicely.

2) Join the Irish by planting Peas and Potatoes on St. Patrick’s Day, even if you don’t have garden space.

You and your family can celebrate

St. Patrick’s Day by doing a really “green” activity: plant your garden!

Yes, it really is an annual Irish tradition that you could turn into a family tradition of your own. Decorate your plantings with shamrock markers or something fun.

Peas and potatoes grow wonderfully in containers, so you can enjoy your harvest from a deck, balcony or even a sunny windowsill.

TIP: Use good quality soil that has been amended with compost or organic fertilizer soil. Follow planting instructions. Usually, I plant mine about an inch deep.

TIP: Place a long, thin branch upright in the soil with the seeds. As the vines grow, they’ll wrap around them for support.

TIP: Give crops good sun. Not shade.

TIP: Use seed potatoes, not the chemically treated potatoes you buy at the store. Seed potatoes can be purchased from a local garden and feed store.

TIP: For growing potatoes, try the

straw or hay method of potato growing, which is super easy and results in no split potatoes since you just pull them out.

TIP: As your potato vine starts to grow, if you’re covering your potatoes with dirt and not straw, you will want to “hill” them after every 4” of growth.

Put more dirt around the base of the plant, making a little hill or mound.

TIP: Water potato plants regularly if there is no rain. The leaves and flowers will grow and then grow yellow, die and wilt. When they wilt, stop watering. I can’t do anything about the rain. After 2-3 weeks, baby potatoes will be ready, or wait another 4-5 weeks for larger potatoes.

TIP: Peas are ready when their pods appear full and heavy. Use scissors instead of pulling by hand to prevent damaging the plant.

Mavis Trentham loves gardening and being outside as much as possible. Do you have gardening questions? Send them to the paper and let’s see if Mavis can help! Send to: editor@valleybugler.com

This year, there’s more to Spring than good weather: AFFORDABILITY Over the last three years, sellers were more than pleased to see that homes were selling for a total of 25% more than three years before, according to the S&P/Case Shiller Index. Sellers were pleased; buyers not so much.

So far in 2015, slower gains for sellers have helped to make home affordability a more positive factor.

But these sellers, those who recently decided to trade up or move to a smaller place, are still doing buyers a big favor.

It’s a lovely circle. Prices have been going up, which makes some sell, and that puts lots of choice homes on the market, which makes others want to buy. As the number of great homes rise, prices become settled, homes become more affordable, and everyone tends to get a great deal.

Real estate agents may be more

likely to make recommendations that meet all the buyer’s wants, instead of just a few.

Experts say it is too soon to calculate affordability for this year, but if you buy a home today it will definitely be more affordable than a year from now.

Quoted in The Wall Street Journal, Bill McBride, who writes the popular Calculated Risk blog, reminds us that in the existing housing market, active inventory may influence pricing somewhat, but also influences sales.

McBride says that in 2014, home sales were just so-so, mainly because inventories remained low.

Mortgage interest rates for 30year instruments have drifted back to about 4% in some areas. Some economists, however, say rates will rise beginning in June or July of this year.

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 17

Remodeling the exterior of your home will pay off big Maximize your curb appeal with an exterior makeover. Sometimes all it takes is the right color of paint, and sprucing up the garden beds in front. Or maybe adding a couple cute porch rockers or benches.

Whatever you may be thinking about doing to your house exterior, if you haven’t done anything in a while, safe bets say that you’ll improve your home’s value.

Popular this year is the arched portico addition. A smaller version of a covered porch for your front door, adding columns on the side with a curved archway above.

Another popular remodeling move has been to re-surface front walk ways with brick, or faux brick and red clay, through using cement stamping techniques.

Proving a dramatic increase in curb appeal, the cement stamping and faux styles have proved to have

a significant payoff.

Let’s say you really have no idea what to do to the exterior of your home.

You’re not a designer, and you just don’t see yourself becoming one in the near future.

Best bet is to chat with surrounding neighbors, of whose houses you admire. Friends or family may have homes that you have long salivated over, so ask them what they did or what contractor they used.

If you’re a DIY type person, but not talented at creating the plan or design, a visit to Pinterest or Googling home exterior makeovers could prove to be a valuable use of your time.

The magazine Better Homes and Gardens has a wonderful online portfolio of “Before and After” pictures of houses that underwent various levels of remodeling on the exte-

rior. The effect is dramatic.

Visit bhg.com and search in the “Home Improvement” link for Before and After pictures. There are plenty there that should be able to spark a few great ideas for your own remodel or painting project.

When building a plan of your own, don’t forget to include the landscaping. It can literally make or break your

house appeal.

Be sure to add in colorful pots of color or complimentary blooming bushes that are placed tastefully at entrances and along walk ways.

Whatever your new ideas may be for your home, they’re sure to benefit with greater curb appeal, resulting in a higher home value and potential sale price.

‘May the roof above us never fall in.

And may we good companions beneath it never fall out.’ ~Irish Blessing

Page 18 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 19

By Oscar Myre IV Valley Bugler Columnist When clients ask what marketing tools do they absolutely have to have, time after time share these 5 must have marketing tools. You might find this interesting, because there is nothing bad or evil about not having these tools. It doesn’t mean a business isn’t credible, reliable, responsible, or other solid adjectives. But, the absence of these tools makes people....wonder about a business...

1) Logo Your logo sets the tone for your business. The color, imagery & typography give people a feel of what they might expect from your company.

You’ve heard the old adage that people judge book by it’s cover.

People also judge a business by it’s logo. It sets the tone for trust. The value of this first impression is epic.

Are they getting they feeling that you are working out of your garage or a fancy Bellevue office?

Truth is you can run a great business from either location. But we want to set the right tone and impression.

2) Business Cards Technology has changed the way we do businesses but, make no mistake, business is still powered by relationships.

When you make an initial face to face impression, you need to have

a professional business card ready to provide. Be sure you are stocked and ready to make new connections.

As a marketing geek, I also carry digital copies of my card, but there is something tactile, something special about sharing a good old fashioned business card. These cards are triggers for later action.

3) Company eMail When you hand someone your fancy business card and they see that your eMail is a generic bobross-1947@gmail.com or your-company@comcast.net, what does it say about your professionalism?

It says these guys are cheap. Can’t they afford their own domain name?

You, know it isn’t expensive to have bob@somegreatcompany.com as your eMail. It validates your business by having a professional company eMail.

4) Website Websites are absolutely required for businesses and non-profits. Just having a website implies the notion that you have a modern and relevant business. An effective website does at least 3 critical things for your business…

Develops Trust Your site should help people feel confident that your company understands the products or services that it offers and has the ability to deliver.

Sparks Interest Your website should share what

Things Mom would never say: 1. ”How on earth can you see the TV sitting so far back?”

2. ”Yeah, I used to skip school a lot, too” 3. ”Just leave all the lights on ... it makes the house look more cheery” 4. ”Let me smell that shirt -- Yeah, it’s good for another week” 5. ”Go ahead and keep that stray dog, honey. I’ll be glad to feed and walk him every day” 6.”Well, if Timmy’s mom says it’s OK, that’s good enough for me.”

7. ”The curfew is just a general time to shoot for. It’s not like I’m running a prison around here.”

8. ”I don’t have a tissue with me ... just use your sleeve” 9. ”Don’t bother wearing a jacket the wind-chill is bound to improve” 10. “Yep, it’s too cold in the house,

so go ahead and turn up the heat.”

11. “Just because you were too sick to go to school today doesn’t mean you can’t hang out with your friends now.”

12. “To tell you the truth, I can’t really tell when you’re lying to me.”

13. “Let’s wait and see if your socks pick themselves up first.”

14. “Keep the door open! We need to air-condition the neighborhood!”

15. “You’re right. You don’t have enough clothes. Here’s my credit card.”

makes you special and why someone should choose your company over competitors.

Encourages Action After you develop both trust and interest from a web viewer, what would you like for them to do?

Whether it is for them to fill out a form, order a product, or make a call, you need a compelling call for action.

Having a website that works good on your computer is no longer enough. Be sure your website is responsive, or mobile friendly. Many business are receiving over half of their traffic on mobile devices. Half.

5) Google Listing If your business doesn’t exist at Google, chances are it won’t exist much longer.

The phone book isn’t dead, it’s just now called Google. Make sure you can be found when people are looking for your company and your products/services. Web searchers should be able to find your website and your google page with reviews and directions.

There are other marketing tools that I recommend as well such as; social media, eMail marketing, printed brochures, website video, etc. I strongly recommend that you take care of these top 5 must have tools before looking at any additional elements..

Oscar Myre IV is the Creative Director & Owner at omOriginals Marketing! a Washington based Web firm for over sixteen years.

Serving National and International clients of all sizes. Call them at (360)575-9839 or omOriginals.com

Page 20 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLERS PIN ‘EM DOWN AT STATE TOURNAMENT (2)

(1) (3)

(4)

All Photos by Kevin Sawyer

(5) (6) (7)

(8) (9) (10)

Photos as numbered above: (1) Kelso’s Mariah Roggow and Kingston’s Peyton Reece get ready to wrestle their 125 lb Girls final match. Roggow lost the match 2-1, earning second place. (2) RA LongsOrion Yates defends a turn attempt from Highlines Zach Edson in their consolation semifinal bout. Yates won the match 6-0 and went on to claim 4th place at the 2A 120 lb tournament. (3) The Castle Rock Godinho family of coaches and a player is all smiles after Shawn Godinho places 3rd in the 1A 152 lb tournament. (L to R) Kyle Godinho, Levi Godinho, Shawn Godinho, Joe Godinho). (4) Kelso’s Bryce Miller (blue) works for a fall against Sumners Kalel Salcedo. Miller won the match by fall and claimed 5th place in the 3A 106 lb bracket. (5) Castle Rock coaches (L to R) Joe Godinho, Levi Godinho and Kyle Godinho all lean for a better view of the mat action. (6) Castle Rock Shawn Godinho (red) grins and works for a fall against Klahowya’s Eli Everson in the 1A 152 lb 3rd place match. Godinho won the match by fall and claimed 3rd place. (7) Kelso’s Mariah Horton claimed second place at the 135 lb girls state wrestling tournament. (8) Kelso’s Bryce Miller (blue) works for a fall against Sumners Kalel Salcedo. Miller won the match by fall and claimed 5th place in the 3A 106 lb bracket. (9) Castle Rocks Austin Darvell (red) works for an escape in overtime against Freeman’s Markus Goldbach in the 1A 182 lb Championship Match. Darvell lost the match in overtime, earning 2nd place. (10) Kalama’s Jacob Posey (red ankle band) fights for wrist control with Elmas Jacob Nelson in their 7th place match. Posey lost the match in overtime, earning an 8th place medal. All photos by Kevin Sawyer for the Valley Bugler Newspaper.

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 21

KIWANIS CLUBS focus their community service hours to the welfare of children.

CATHLAMET 1st Tues. 6 p.m. at the St. Catherine’s Catholic Church; 3rd Tues. at Sugar Lillies at noon.

CHEHALIS - Thursday 12 p.m. at “The Restaurant” in Sunbirds.

CLATSKANIE - 1st & 3rd & 5th Tues 6 p.m. at Fultano’s; 2nd & 4th Tues 12 p.m. Colvin’s.

KELSO - Thurs. noon at 3 Rivers Mall, Comm. Room.

LONGVIEW - Thursdays. noon at JT’s.

SCAPPOOSE- 1st & 3rd Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

Windemere Real Estate Office) ST. HELENS - Thurs. noon at the Elks Lodge (350 Belton Rd, St Helens).

ST. HELENS DAYBREAKERS - Tues 7 a.m. at Warren Country Inn, Last Tues 6pm Columbia Soil and Water District Office AMERICAN LEGION GLEN HOYER POST 175 meets in Castle Rock every 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. For info call 423.9542.

The LADIES AUXILIARY to Glen Hoyer Post #175 of the American Legion meets first Thursdays. For info call 423-9542.

AMERICAN LEGION GUY RATHBUN Post #25 meets the 2nd Thurs. of the month at 7 p.m @ Kelso Eagles For info Kandi 423.2504 BUFORD ROCKAFELLOW POST 101, The American Legion, and Auxiliary meets the 2nd Friday of each month at the Winlock Community Building. Potluck 6 p.m., meeting at 7 p.m.. For info Post Commander Wendy Carolan 360-785-0929 or Adjutant Phil Carolan at (360) 785-0929.

The FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION (FRA), an organization of Naval Service Veterans, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard.

Lower Columbia Branch 363 meets 6:30 p.m., 2nd Friday, each month at the Longview VFW building, 4311 Ocean Beach Highway.

For more information contact: Ray Hegr at (360) 425-6981 or E-mail at fra363@yahoo. com.

FLEET RESERVE AUXILIARY #363 meets the 2nd Friday of the month at the VFW Hall, 4311 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview. A potluck at 6:30 p.m. with the meeting at 7:30 p.m. All people who have active, retired, or reserve status family members who are now serving or have served with the US Navy, Marines or Coast Guard are welcome. Info 425.4688.

KELSO-LONGVIEW ELKS LODGE #1482 meets Thurs at 7:30 p.m. for our members only. Dinner is served before Lodge at 5:30 p.m. Lunches are served Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. One of our many projects is to serve the youth of the communities. 900 Ash St., Kelso. 360.425.1482.

TOUTLE VALLEY VFW POST & AUXILIARY #10882 meets the 1st Tuesday @ 7 p.m. at their Post Home, 101 Hansen Road in Toutle. For more information, contact John at 274.4350 or Nikki at 274.5263.

TOLEDO VFW 3429, Reg. Meeting 1st Monday, Potluck at noon, meeting at 1 p.m.

COWLITZ VALLEY VFW POST 1045, Tues. Bingo @ 6 p.m., 5 p.m. dinner; Auxilary mtngs at 11 a.m. every 2nd Wednesday. Breakfast for veterans served 1st Sat. of each month $6 each from 9 - 11 a.m.

The COWLITZ VALLEY VFW LADIES AUXILIARY POST #1045 meets the 2nd Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the VFW Hall located at 4311 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview. For info or questions please call Ruby at (360) 577-0414 or Jeannette at (360) 414-4053.

COWLITZ PRAIRIE GRANGE #737 meets 2nd Wednesdays 6:30pm potluck, 4th Wednesdays 7:30pm dessert. 5180 Jackson Hwy, Toledo, WA 864-2023 SUNNYSIDE GRANGE #129 meets the 2nd & 4th Saturdays. 6:30 for potluck, 7:30 meeting. Call 274.6013 for information & rental hall.

SILVER LAKE GRANGE 2nd and 4th Thurs. Potluck 6:30, meeting at 7:30 p.m. Info & rental 274-5263.

CATLIN GRANGE #199 2nd & 4th Fri. 6:30 p.m. Potluck dinner 2nd Friday. 7:30 meetings. More info: 425.2973.

PLEASANT HILL GRANGE # 101 2nd & 4th Mon. 6:30 p.m. Potluck, meeting @ 7:15 p.m. Community Service group. Info & rentals call 425-6101 Junior Grange meets 1st & 3rd Mondays 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.

CASTLE ROCK WOMANS CLUB meets every 2nd Monday at 1 p.m. 206 W. Cowlitz Street. Business meeting & program. Public iinvited. Info: 274.8149.

THE PYTHIAN CASTLE 24 holds their meetings every 2nd and 4th Thursday @ 1 p.m. at the Castle Rock Womens Club, 206 Cowlitz St. West, Castle Rock.

THE CASTLE ROCK LIONS CLUB meets the 1st & 3rd Thursdays at Hattie’s Restaurant @ 5:45 p.m. The club sponsors newspaper recycling.

LONGVIEW MONTICELLO LIONS meets 6:30 p.m.

2nd and 4th Mondays, dinner and speaker at The Carriage Restaurant on 12th LONGVIEW EARLY BIRD LIONS meets at The Carriage Restaurant on the 1st Wednesday @6pm, 3rd Wednesday @6:45am.

THE VADER LIONS CLUB meets the 1st Thursday @ 6 p.m. and the 3rd Thursday @ 7 p.m. at the club’s building on Hwy 506 in Vader for a potluck dinner and meeting. Info: 295-3087 or 295-3801.

KALAMA LIONS CLUB - www.kalama-lions.com.

LONGVIEW PIONEER LIONS CLUB meets every Tuesday at noon at the Longview Eagles Club (152612th Ave) Provide humanitarian service to the citizens of the area, visitors are welcome.

WINLOCK LIONS CLUB meets the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 12 p.m. at Guadalajara Restaurant, off SR 505. Visitors welcome. Call 7853744 info KELSO LIONS CLUB meets 1st & 3rd Monday @ 6:30 p.m. in Longview Kelso Kels Building. Call Richard (360)425-5876 ROSE VALLEY GRANGE #953 meets 2nd Tues. @ 1pm, & 4th Tuesdays @ 6 p.m. 1520 Rose Valley Road, Kelso. Info: Becky 575-3977 or Debbie 414-9627 COWLITZ COUNTY VETERANS ASSOC. meets the second Friday of each month. CALL 577-6757 for locations.

LONGVIEW REBEKAH LODGE NO. 305 Meets the 1st and 3rd Saturday each month at the IOOF Hall, corner of Pacific and Pine, Kelso, 1 p.m.. Info: 1-866725-3507 CASTLE ROCK EAGLES, celebrating their 100th birthday, meets at the Eagles Aerie on Huntington Ave. @ 8 p.m. every 2nd & 4th Tuesday for the Aerie & Auxiliary.

KELSO EAGLES meet 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 7 p.m. Aux., Aerie meets at 8 p.m. Initiation 3rd Tuesday. BINGO MonWed-Fri @ 6:30 p.m. Special Charity BINGO Monday 12 - 3 p.m. Call 425-8330 for info.

CASTLE ROCK FREEMASONS 3rd Mon @ 7:30 p.m. at Lodge located on SW First Ave DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, MaryRichardson Walker Chapter. rootsweb. ancestry.com/~wamrwcdar/ FRIENDS OF CASTLE ROCK LIBRARY, 1st Mondays from 10 - 11 a.m., Library 137 Cowlitz St. West in Castle Rock WORSHIP & RECOVERY meeting, Sunday @ 1 p.m., refreshments. Positive faith group meeting. 1260 12th Ave., LV S.C.O.R.E. - Free counseling & guidance for small businesses by the nation-wide of S.C.O.R.E., Kelso/ Longview Chamber of Commerce, 1563 Olympia Way, Longview, WA. DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS: 1st Fri of the month at 1 p.m. @ 1639 10th Ave. 577-5890, and Auxiliary meets the 2nd Friday of the month at 11 a.m.

423-3125 MT. ST. HELENS CLUB - meets 2x week to hike on a rural trail in SW Washington &/or NW Oregon. Location and info: mtsthelensclub.org or 360- 673-2799 NATIONAL ASSOC. OF ACTIVE & RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES Longview - Kelso Chapter 1070, meet the 1st Wednesday @ 11:30 a.m. at the Monticello Hotel, Longview. Info: 423.6032.

LOWER COLUMBIA WOODCARVERS Tues 5 - 7 p.m.

Brook Hollow Rec. Center & Thurs. @ LV Senior Center 1 - 4 p.m . 274-3175 ROSE VALLEY GRANGE #953 2nd & 4th Tues. 6 p.m. potluck, meeting 7:00. Info: 423-6952, Rentals 423-8270, or 560-5140.

LONGVIEW BORDER CROSSINGS Volks walking meet on 2nd Tuesdays at St. John’s Hospital, Longview, @ 6:30 p.m. Cafeteria Sam Korff 503-728-0400 KELSO ROTARY Meets Thursdays at 12 p.m. Lunch available to purchase. Kelso Longview Elks Lodge Call 414-5406 for more information ALTRUSA of Longview/Kelso meets Thursdays from 12 - 1 p.m.. 1st - Board; 2nd - Business; 3rd - Committee; 4th - Program; Lunch served for $5 at all meetings except Board. Meet at Altrusa room at CAP. THE SPIRIT OF FREEDOM Christian Intervention program for the chemically dependent, meets Wednesday 6 p.m. at Landmark United Pentecostal, 4333 Ocean Beach Hwy, 360-636-0580 LONGVIEW GARDEN CLUB meets at 10 a.m. the 4th Thurs. Jan. - November; Sept. - Oct. Due to holidays, Nov. & Dec. meetings are on the 3rd Thurs. Most mtngs Grace Lutheran Church in Longview. Info: 425-0755 COWLITZ BEE ASSOCIATION meets the 3rd Thursday each month @ WSU Extension Office, 7 p.m.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS of Longview meets Monday @ 7:00pm or Thursday @ 7:30pm at Longview United Methodist Church. 2851 30th Ave, Longview. For info call Coop (505)363-8774 or www.oa.org NAMI Strive - Free support group; Depression, Bipolar, PTSD or any mental illness. Thursdays 4-5:30pm,. NAMI Free Suicide Support Group: For anyone with severe depression that has thoughts of suicide. Please come join us. Starts Jan 7th, Wed 6-8pm. 900 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview (360)984-6096

Abernathy Assembly of God 702 Abernathy Creek Rd. Longview Phone: 360-636-1620 Website: www.AbernathyAoG.com Sunday Service 10:45 AM Apostolic Lighthouse 803 Vandercook, Ste 12, Longview Bible Study Tues 7:30pm Church Service Sun 2:30pm Pastor Mozingo (360)219-6109

Fireside Fellowship 271 Atmore Road, Toutle Worship Sunday 10:00 a.m. facebook.com/thefireside

Apostolic Lutheran Church 248 Cowlitz St. W., Castle Rock Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

Church at 11 a.m.

Information Dave Kandoll 295-3461

Grace and Truth City Church 525 Third Ave SW – Castle Rock Pastor David Beer Worship 10:15am, 749-2289

Baha’i Faith Vader 360-751-3181 Centralia 360-807- 4313 Packwood 360-494-4767 Longview 360-423-4105 Wednesdays 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Bethany Lutheran Church 2900 Parkview Drive, Longview Office: (360)577-8240 Pastor Shelley Willem Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m.

Castle Rock Christian Church 542 Huntington Ave. S, Castle R. Sunday school – 9 am (all ages) Sunday Worship – 10 am Dr. John Leffler, Senior Pastor 6th-12th Gr. youth Wed, 6-7:30 pm 360-274-6771 M-F, 9:30a -1:30pm Call for home groups/studies www.cr-cc.org

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 2000 East Kessler Blv - Longview 360.425.4220 Rev. Eric Atcheson lvfirstchristian.org revericatcheson.blogspot.com

The Rock Meeting at 1955 Huntington Ave S, Castle Rock Worship 10 a.m. every Sunday Wednesday @ 7pm Service Pastors Jerry & Angie Hughes 274.7480 Rose Valley Friends Church 1437 Rose Valley Rd. Kelso 360-425-3222 Church Office 9:30am Sunday School Hour for all 10:45am Worship Service 5:00pm - 7:00pm Valley Youth Group 6-8pm Wednesday-JValley Youth 6-8pm -Sunday-JValley Youth

Grace Bible Fellowship 300 S.10th Ave, Kelso Worship: Sunday 11:00am Bible Study 9:30 a.m. www.GraceIsReal.org (360)423-4035

Ryderwood Community Church,

Grace Lutheran Church, MS 2725 Dover Street, Longview Worship: Sunday 10:30am www.Glcmslv.net (360)414-4147

St. Mary Catholic Church 120 Powell Rd., Castle Rock 274.7404 W & Th Daily Mass 8:30A Sunday Mass 8:30A

Grace United Methodist Church, Vader, 295.3402 Rev. Steven A. Caskey, pastor Sunday worshipndservice – 12:15 p.m.

Potluck every 2 Sunday Quilting on Mondays & Thursdays

315 Jackson St. PO Box 161, Ryderwood, Pastor Bill Bowlby, 360-295-3962 Service Opportunities 11 am Sunday

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church 412 Pioneer Ave., Box 1467 Castle Rock Worship 10 a.m. Sunday - 274.9393

St. Paul Lutheran Church 312 First Ave. SW, PO Box 847, Castle Rock 274.6604 House of Prayer for All Nations Worship Service: 9a.m. & 11 a.m.

868 9th ave. Longview, WA SundayE40! (education) @ 10:10 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 AM Wed: 5th & 6th grade Service 11:15 AM Castle Rock Church of the Nazarene Morning Youth Group - 6 p.m.

Evening Service 6 PM 456 Pioneer Ave. NE, Castle Rock Wed: 7th-12th gr Youth, 7:30pm Sunday School classes 9:30 a.m. Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Pastor Bob Sinclair Worship Celebration 10:45 a.m.

2200 Allen Street, Kelso Evening church service 6:30 p.m. (360) 423-3650 St. Rose Catholic Church Women’s Bible study Th 10:30am M & F Daily Mass 12:15 PM Rev. Reo McBride, 274.6546 2571 Nichols Blvd Longview, WA Sat Vigil Mass 5:30 PM Sunday Mass 10:30 AM 360-425-4660 Castle Rock First Baptist Church 211 Front Ave. NW, Castle Rock Pastor Joel Royce 274-4113 Kalama Baptist Church, The Salvation Army Church Sun Bible Study all ages: 9:45am Pastor Wes Eader Worship 11a.m.

1639 10th Ave, Longview Vincent Rd, Kalama WA Women’s Bible Study: Wed 1:30pm 112 Sunday School @ 9:45am - Sunday School Cowboy Church: Last Sat.; 6-9pm 9:45am Holiness Meeting @ 11:00am 11:00am - Worship 360-423-3992 Castle Rock Church of Nazarene www.kalamabaptist.com 456 Pioneer Ave NE, Castle Rock Call 673-5570 (360)274-6546 Stephens Episcopal Kelso First United Methodist Church St. Pastor Reo McBride 1428 - 22nd, Longview WA 206 Cowlitz Way, Kelso Sunday Service: 10:45am Office: (360)423-5600 Contemporary Service 9:00 am Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 8:00am & 10:00am Sunday School 9:20 am Children’s Service: 11:00am www.sslv.org Traditional Service 11:00 am Sunday Eve Service: 6:00pm Children (Grade 1-12) 5:30-7 pm Seventh Day Adventist Church Women’s Bible Study: Wed 6:00pm Wed: Pastor Vonda McFadden 7531 Old Pacific Hwy -Castle Rock 360-423-7480 Castle Rock United Methodist Worship 11 a.m. Saturday www.kelsofirstumc.org 241 First Street, Castle Rock Pastor Ben Moore 274.6090 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Lexington Bible Fellowship Worship 10:55 a.m. Sunday 98 Garden Street, Kelso (Lexington) Seventh Day Adventist Church Youth Group: Sundays 2 p.m.

Sunday school @ 9:45am Journey Church Rev. Pam Brokaw - 274.4252 Sunday worship @ 11am 77 Solomon Road, Kelso WA Pastor Jerry Hancuff Office: (360)423-7344 Central Christian Church www.lexingtonbible.org 401 Crawford St., Kelso Saturday Worship: 11:05am Worship -11am, school @ 9:30am Life Center Pastor Marcia Stone Corner of Rock & Pine in Centralia journeyadventist.com Wednesdays @ 6pm (Youth @ 6:45 Sundays at 10:30am or Bible Studies - many available Stella Lutheran Chapel Oyler Rd & Hwy 12 in Ethel Russ Tevis, Minister 124 Sherman Road, Longview Sundays 360-425-3420 Church Office 9:00am 360-736-5898 Pastor Carol Plummer www.yourlifecenter.com Sunday Worship 10:00 am Community of Christ, Longview Children Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

Living Hope Church 202 Delaware Street Office (360) 423-3795 (Wed. Only) 2711 NW Andreson, Vancouver Pastor Sharon West 11:00am Sundays Toledo New Life Assembly of God Classes all ages: 10:00am Pastor Dean Jenks (360)944-3905 420 Silver Street, Toledo WA Worship Service: 11:00am (360)864-4366 Longview Church of the Nazarene Worship: Sun. @ 10am, Wed. @ 6pm Church of Christ 814 - 15th Ave, Longview Dinner on Wednesdays @ 5:15pm Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.

300 St. Helen’s St., Toledo, Wa Food Bank: Last Tue/Wed of month Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Bible Class 10 a.m.

Celebrate Recovery Thurs at 6 p.m Sunday Worship 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. 360-577-1100 Toutle Christian Fellowship Tuesday Bible Class 11 a.m.

5067 Spirit Lake Hwy – Toutle Longview Community Church, Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.

Worship Service Sunday 9 a.m.

2323 Washington Way - Longview Childcare provided John Gadberry, Minister Worship service Sunday Pastor Denny Martinez 360-274-8570 Contemporary Service 8:45 a.m. www.toutle.org Traditional Service 11 a.m.

Emmanuel Lutheran Church (360)274-6305 Pastor John Williams 423.6380 2218 E. Kessler Blvd. - Longview LongviewCommunityChurch.org Sunday Worship - 8:30am Vader Assembly of God Church Longview Presbyterian Church Sunday “Celebration” - 11 a.m.

302 - 6th St., Vader, WA 3808 Pennsylvania St., Longview Thursday Worship - 6:30 p.m.

(360)295-3756 Pastor David Martin, Senior Pastor Worship and Children’s Class: Pastor Tracy Durham Sun. 10am Church office - 360-423-3250 Sunday Worship: 10:30am & 6:00pm Pastor Meghan Davis (360)577-8951 www.elclongview.com Sunday Youth Group: 6:00pm www.longviewpresbychurch.net Wed. Adult Study, Kidz Church: 7p.m.

Faith Fellowship Lutheran Brethren; New and Living Way Church Church 210 Fishers Lane, Kelso 951 Delaware St., Longview Valley View Church of God Pastor Chris Leingang Sundays 10am & 6pm 1435 - 33rd Ave, Longview WA Worship at 10:00am Wednesdays 7pm Pastor Dwayne Cothron www.fflbc.org Church Office (360) 425-4390 703-3340 newandlivingwaychurch.org (360)636-6787 Worship Sundays @ 10am & 6pm Fathers House Church Oak Point Community Church 1315 Commerce Ave, Longview 445 Oakpoint Rd, Longview Worship Sundays: Limited availability. Submit your Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

9am, 10:30am church services to: Sunday Service 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Pastor Chuck Tilton 423-7826 Thursday Bible Study 7 p.m. editor@valleybugler.com www.FathersHouseChurch.com Pastor Doug McMurray #577-6037

Page 22 • Valley Bugler • March 2015

Get Puzzled!

Darn Good Chicken Tenders

By Laurrie Piland Valley Bugler Columnist

Answer on same page

It has been a hectic month for me. With all of this nice weather, I got snow peas and various greens planted. I got meals from two different countries cooked up and blogged about: Paraguay and Belarus, which have turned out to be two of most favorite meals, to date, on this culinary world tour that my husband and I are taking.

I created a new recipe for Super Bowl that I would love to share with everyone. I call this Darn Good Chicken Tenders.

Darn Good Chicken Tenders Ingredients: *1lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders *Up to 3/4 lb. bacon for wrapping the chicken tenders Glaze: *1/3 cup orange marmalade *a couple of dashes of chipotle hot sauce, to taste. *1 Tbls of soy sauce *1 Tbls worcestershire sauce *1/4 tsp sesame oil *1/4 tsp each red pepper flakes, smoked black pepper, garlic powder

* Let that all heat up in a pan until a smooth sauce forms. Stir gently.

Preparation Directions: Wrap each piece of chicken with one piece of bacon, secure with toothpick, if needed.

Bake bacon wrapped chicken tenders on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet in a preheated 400 degree oven for about 20 minutes. In the meantime, prepare the glaze.

Remove tenders from oven after 20 minutes, flip each one over, brush both sides with glaze and return to oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until a thermometer reads 165 degrees.

These are fantastic! To date, my husband and I happen to think that bacon should be its own food group and everything tastes better with bacon on it.

To view the step by step recipe and photos, visit www.bakedlava.com Until we meet up in April, keep cooking and PEACE! RV cook extraordinaire.. proving to the world that RV food can be gourmet. Even from her RV galley in the shadow of Mt. St. Helens!

A snail buys a fast car...

There was once a snail who was sick and tired of his reputation for being so slow. He decided to get some fast wheels to make up the difference. After shopping around a while, he decided that the Datson 240-Z was the car to get. So the snail goes to the nearest Datsun dealer and says he wants to buy the 240-Z, but he wants it repainted “240-S”.

The dealer asks, “Why ‘S’?”

The snail replies, “’S’ stands for snail. I want everybody who sees me roaring past to know who’s driving.”

Well, the dealer doesn’t want to lose the unique opportunity to sell a car to a snail, so he agrees to have the car repainted for a small fee.

The snail gets his new car and spent the rest of his days roaring happily down the highway at top speed. And whenever anyone would see him zooming by, they’d say “Wow! Look at that S-car go!”

March 2015 • Valley Bugler • Page 23

Update: Chinook salmon must be released on the Lewis River and daily catch limit for hatchery steelhead increased on the Kalama River Action: Mainstem Lewis and North Fork Lewis River anglers must release all spring chinook.

Species affected: Chinook salmon Effective date and locations: March 1, 2015, until further notice.

Mainstem Lewis River from mouth to mouth of East Fork; North Fork Lewis River from mouth of East Fork to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam. Reason for action: The pre-season forecast is for a return of 1,100 adult spring chinook to the Lewis River in 2015. This is less than the number needed to meet the hatchery escapement goal of approximately 1,350 fish.

Other information: Hatchery returns will be closely monitored inseason.

The mainstem Lewis River and North Fork Lewis River will remain open to fishing for hatchery steelhead. Under permanent rules, the North Fork Lewis River from Johnson Creekupstream will be closed to all fishing during the month of May.

Daily catch limit for hatchery steelhead increased to 3 fish on the Kalama River.

Action: Anglers fishing the lower Kalama River may retain up to 3 hatchery steelhead.

Effective date: March 1, 2015, until further notice.

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead.

Location: Kalama River from boundary markers at the mouth to 1,000 feet below fishway at the upper salmon hatchery.

Reason for action: The hatchery escapement goal for late winter run steelhead is expected to be met and surplus fish are available for harvest.

Other information: The hatchery spring chinook daily limit and season remains the same as listed in the 2014-2015 Fishing in Washington sport fishing rules pamphlet.

For all Information contact: (360)696-6211. For latest information press *1010.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW “Fishing in Washington” rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866880-5431.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife invite your to visit their website for information: wdfw.wa.gov

Two vampire bats wake up in the middle of the night, thirsty for blood. One says, “Let’s fly out of the cave and get some blood.”

“We’re new here,” says the second one. “It’s dark out, and we don’t know where to look. We’d better wait until the other bats go with us.”

The first bat replies, “Who needs them? I can find some blood somewhere.” He flies out of the cave.

When he returns, he is covered with blood.

The second bat says excitedly, “Where did you get the blood?”

The first bat takes his buddy to the mouth of the cave. Pointing into the night, he asks, “See that black building over there?”

“Yes,” the other bat answers.

“Well,” says the first bat, “I didn’t.”

Adorable Adoptees

Meet

‘Izzy’

Little Izzy is a 9 year old Chihuahua and all she wants is to snuggle on your lap. She’s a timid girl, but she is so tiny that most things are scary to her. She needs a home where she can feel safe and loved.

For questions and info: rpaws.petfinder.org 673-7373

Our 2015 Models are in! Come see our special cats today.

Humane Society of Cowlitz County. [See ad opposite page.]

Page 24 • Valley Bugler • March 2015