2 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 3
Central Oregon Living
FEATURES
SUMMER 2011
RIGHT AT HOME 6 8 12 13 15 16
annual home showcase event calendar central oregon 101 just add the fish freshwater fish recipes locavore’s corner
HIGH DESERT LIFESTYLES 17 19
yard sale success serious about sectionals
26 garden calendar 27 garden fact or fiction 28 offering education and inspiration 31
expert advice
Container Gardening
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7
Modern Sheds
Tour of Homes Highlights
Central Oregon Living
20 stay cool without ac 22 prime time
IN THE GARDEN
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is a product of The Bulletin’s Special Projects Division, 1777 SW Chandler Ave., Bend OR 97702. All content is the property of The Bulletin/Western Communications Inc., and may not be reproduced without written consent.
Printed by The Bulletin Western Communications Commercial Print Division. Story ideas may be submitted to editor Ben Montgomery for consideration. Contact him at (541)383-0379 or bmontgomery@bendbulletin.com.
Staff members for The Bulletin’s special projects division include: Martha Tiller, Special Projects Manager; Ben Montgomery, Special Projects Editor; Lyle Cox, Photographer; Nicole Werner, Special Projects Assistant; Stacie Oberson, Specia l Projects Coordinator; Clint Nye, Graphic Designer. Published Saturday, June 25, 2011 Cover photo by Nicole Werner
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS ANNISSA ANDERSON, a freelance writer and public relations consultant, also studied culinary arts and worked as a pastry chef in another life. She writes regularly for The Bulletin and other local publications.
AMY JO DETWEILER has worked as OSU Extension Horticulture Faculty for 10 years, educating in home and commercial horticulture, and providing annual training for the local OSU Master Gardener™ Program.
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KRISTY HESSMAN has written for a variety of publications including The AP wire service. She is a native Oregonian and active Bendite. Her garage currently contains: three bikes, two backpacking packs, one tri wetsuit, a bouldering crash pad, two sleeping bags and four pairs of running shoes.
Between assisting her 5-year-old chef while he creates “delicious” concoctions with random ingredients, and cheering on her nearly 1-year-old acrobat as he perfects his latest moves, KARI MAUSER finds time to write, knowing that freelancing is all that keeps her from getting totally lost in a second childhood.
ROBERT SPRINGER is a freelance writer living in Sisters. He has worked in the banking, television and information technology industries. In addition to writing, he enjoys being delightfully distracted by his schoolage twins.
SUSAN THOMAS SPRINGER began her journalism career as a television news reporter, then worked in corporate marketing. Today, she’s a freelance writer living in Sisters where she and her husband enjoy raising their twins.
DOUG STOTT is the owner of Redmond Greenhouse, a radio talk show host, a TV personality and a writing contributor for area publications, all providing him avenues for sharing his profound love of gardening, people, and his dedication to serve and educate.
BUNNY THOMPSON is an internationally published writer living in Sisters. She cruised on a sailboat for six years and 40,000 miles where she wrote a novel and published travel and adventure articles in national and international magazines: “Sail,” “Cruising World,” “Southern Boating” and “Island Scene.”
EDITOR’S
note
A landmark of significance In 1851, a small group of emigrants led by Thomas Clark became the first pioneers to set camp on land that, today, is home to many reading this column. Following oral directions, Clark set off toward what he believed to be a more southern route of the Oregon Trail. The directions led him toward the Three Sisters, past a 500-foot butte located near the banks of a river called the Deschutes. The group set camp at the spot in Bend known today as Pioneer Park. An important piloting point as he and his group — and future groups — moved west to discover this site, Clark gave the nearby butte the name by which it’s known today: Pilot Butte. I can imagine the excitement of later westward emigrants who saw Pilot Butte for the first time and recognized its significance in their journey.
At the risk of marginalizing the raw emotions of wary pioneers, I can imagine a high level of excitement surrounding Pilot Butte because I experience it every day. My 3-year-old daughter, Maya, discovered Pilot Butte earlier this year, and she lets me know it’s there whenever she catches a glimpse of its summit, be it a few blocks away or across town. “Daddy look, it’s the big hill!” she says as she notices its peak outside her car window. “Can we go?” Central Oregon’s weather during the first few months of 2011 often dictated my response. “No, sweetie. It’s too cold. And it’s raining. And I think I heard it’s supposed to snow.” The silent look of disappointment indicated that Maya was quicly learning her daddy is certainly no pioneer. But she’s nothing if not persistent. “I’ll wear my hat and my rain coat,” she’d say, to which I’d respond: “Hey, look at the bear in the roundabout!” But as the days began to finally warm and the sun decided to emerge for more than 10 minutes each morning, the day came when I surprised her with a better response: “Sure, let’s go to the butte today.” I had come prepared that day, having brought a good
pair of shoes for myself and a jacket and cap for my girl. In the mean time, Maya anxiously monitored our route toward the butte, concerned I might suddenly decide to turn toward home. The grin on her face as we finally pulled into the parking lot indicated both eagerness and relief. We’d finally made it to “The Big Hill.” “Are you ready to hike to the top?” I asked, expecting a hearty “Yes Daddy!” Instead, she pointed away from the trailhead. “I wanna go there,” she said as I followed her gaze toward a playground at the base of the butte. We eventually made it up the butte that day, but not until Maya spent some time on the playground with the other kids. I can’t say it was a completey unexpected turn of events. Because to Maya, like the pioneers, the butte was a landmark that symbolized something greater was to come. To some, it was a future homestead. To one little girl, it was having Daddy push her on the swing.
Ben Montgomery is The Bulletin’s special projects editor.
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541.526.1590 | 3rd & Empire, Bend
www.myurbanspaces.com Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 5
COBA TOUR OF HOMES JULY 15-17, 22-24, 2011
AN ANNUAL HOME SHOWCASE by Susan Thomas Springer / for The Bulletin Special Projects
According to Pamela Armstrong, designer and project manager for PGC Building + Design in Bend, a home should complement the people within. “A house should tell the story of the people who live there,” she said. Be prepared to “read” a lot of stories at the 23rd Annual Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) Tour of Homes. For two weekends in July, you can tour about 39 homes from Bend to Sisters to Redmond and beyond. The tour will include homes that are both custom (already sold) and spec built (ready for sale). “People know they’re going to see quality homes,” said COBA Executive Vice President Tim Knopp. “It’s a great opportunity to see and compare homes that are brand new and ready to go.” Knopp said people are interested to see what’s available in their price range and to get ideas on improving the look, feel and livability of their existing homes. Despite current economic 6 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
will also insert into The Bulletin on Wednesday, July 13. The show is free and runs the weekends of July 15 to 17 and 22 to 24. The hours are Friday, noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
conditions, the tour’s attendance numbers has shown the event has remained popular. Knopp said attendance for the last couple of years has been strong. And in keeping with the economy, COBA now allows homes which are on Tour a second time, called encore homes. Also, Tour goers can see innovations in green building; Knopp said COBA builders are leading the way in energy efficient building. Dick Lowell, owner of Westbrook Construction, has been involved in the Tour for ten years and has won several Tour awards. His home in this year’s
Tour is an affordable three bedroom, energy efficient home in Bend. Lowell said the Tour offers builders a chance to showcase their work. “It’s a great way to expose your house to a lot of people,” said Lowell. He adds Tour goers like to gather ideas or simply to dream. “Most of the people are going through the show to see what’s new, they’re looking at new colors, they’re looking at interiors, they’re looking for decorating ideas,” said Lowell. Find Tour information at coba.org. Or Knopp said people can simply go to one house and pick up a guide, which
2011 TOUR HOME HIGHLIGHTS: HIGH-END LUXURY HOME: PGC Building + Design
The most expensive home on the tour is a custom 4,800-square-foot home in the Tetherow golf community on Bend’s west side, situated to take advantage of beautiful mountain views overlooking the lake. The style is Northwest lodge yet with more elegant Old World elements. Tour goers will appreciate the rough cut stone both outside and inside, special tile details in the master shower, and the wine room. One unique feature in the kitchen is the hood created by metal artist Andy Wachs which combines copper and steel with burnished finishes. “I really think what people will come away with is the quality of the craftsmanship. It’s a beautifully laid out floor plan, it will entertain well, has great views, it has good privacy, there are all the high tech features including a media room but overall everywhere you look there’s a beautiful detail,” said Pamela Armstrong, designer and project manager for PGC. Armstrong adds this house truly tells the story of the owners since furnishings come from past houses. She said that people will come away with ideas about color from the rich and varied palette used throughout the house, with each bedroom and en-suite bath having its own color scheme.
FIRST ZERO ENERGY HOME IN BEND: SolAire Homebuilders
SolAire Homebuilders, specializing in green and sustainable building practices, has designed a home to use zero energy, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes. This one-story prairie style house sits on a corner in Bend’s Northwest Crossing. To create such an energy efficient house, SolAire constructed a super insulated, near air-tight shell. The house has 12inch insulated walls compared with traditional six inch walls. Also, it has 5185 watts of solar electric panels on the roof to generate all the electricity needed to power the home. Other energy efficient features include triple pane windows and low-water landscaping. “Also we orient the home so that is it sun tempered or passive solar. What that really means is in the summer the house remains cool and doesn’t over heat because of the way the house is oriented and the way the windows face. And that in the winter when the sun is lower on the horizon the house gains heat as the sunlight passes through the south facing windows,” said Cindi O’Neil, co-owner of SolAire. O’Neil said the energy-efficient features cost $44,000. However, thanks to generous incentives, that cost was brought down to only $8,800. So she predicts the payback for the homebuyers to be about five years.
UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR ALL ABILITIES: Panterra Homes
Universal design are one-story houses for people of all abilities and includes features such as doors and hallways wide enough for a wheelchair, curbless showers, slightly lower light switches, and levered door knobs. “It’s a home built for all time and all ages,” Jeff Payne owner of Panterra Homes. “Whether you’re disabled or not these single story homes with these types of features are going to be much more attractive to boomers.” Payne was inspired to study universal design from his involvement in COBA’s Remodeler’s Ramp-a-Thon and by having a disabled family member. He is a Member of Bend’s Accessibility Advisory Committee. Payne points out that one out of five people will be disabled at some point in their lives, whether permanently or temporarily. This is the first house in Bend’s new Pettigrew Highlands neighborhood with three bedrooms and two baths which is affordably priced. In addition to universal design, this home has a rock fireplace, a fenced and xeriscaped yard and energy-efficient features.
Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 7
Central Oregon Living EVENT CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE UPCOMING WEEKS IN HIGH DESERT MUSIC, ART, FOOD AND FUN. Saturdays
Saturday-Sunday, June 25-26
PRINEVILLE FARMERS MARKET: Free; 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Prineville City Plaza, 387 N.E. Third St.; 503-739-0643. CENTRAL OREGON SATURDAY MARKET: Featuring arts and crafts from local artisans; free admission; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; parking lot across from Bend Public Library, 600 N.W. Wall St.; 541-420-9015 or www. centraloregonsaturdaymarket.com.
BITE OF BEND: Food festival includes local food booths offering bites of their creations, a beer garden, wine, a Top Chef competition, a children’s area and live music; proceeds benefit The Hunger Prevention Coalition of Central Oregon; donations accepted; 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; downtown Bend; 541-3230964, info@layitoutevents.com or www. thebiteofbend.com.
NORTHWEST CROSSING FARMERS MARKET: Free; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; NorthWest Crossing, Mt. Washington and NWCrossing drives, Bend; valerie@brooksresources.com or www.nwxevents.com.
BREWS, VIEWS AND BAR-B-QUES: A barbecue contest with local and regional chefs, with live music; free admission; noon-8 p.m.; downtown Sisters; 541-549-0251 or jeri@sisterscountry.com.
Sundays
Wednesday, June 29
SUMMER SUNDAY CONCERT: Free; 2:30 p.m.; Les Schwab Amphitheater, 344 S.W. Shevlin Hixon Drive, Bend; 541-322-9383; visit www.bendconcerts.com for scheduled performers.
Tuesdays TUESDAY MARKET AT EAGLE CREST: Free admission; 2-6 p.m.; Eagle Crest Resort, 1522 Cline Falls Road, Redmond; 541-633-9637 or info@sustainableflame.com.
Wednesdays BEND FARMERS MARKET: Free; 3-7 p.m.; Drake Park, eastern end; 541-408-4998 or www.bendfarmersmarket.com.
Fridays BEND FARMERS MARKET: Free; 2-6 p.m.; St. Charles Bend, 2500 N.E. Neff Road; 541408-4998 or www.bendfarmersmarket.com. REDMOND FRIDAY FARMERS MARKET: Free admission; 3-7 p.m.; Redmond Greenhouse, 4101 S. U.S. Highway 97; 541604-5156, redmondfridaymarket@gmail.com.
Saturday, June 25 HEALTHY HOUNDS WEIGHT LOSS WALK: A 3K walk with your dog, in support of dog weight loss; registration requested; proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Central Oregon; $25; 9 a.m., 8:30 a.m. registration; Athletic Club of Bend, 61615 Athletic Club Drive; 541-382-3537 or www.hsco.org. RELAY FOR LIFE: A 24-hour walking event, with a silent auction, food, ceremonies and more; proceeds benefit cancer treatment patients; free; 10 a.m.; La Pine High School, 51633 Coach Road; 541-771-9644. 8 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
PICKIN’ AND PADDLIN’ MUSIC SERIES: Includes boat demonstrations in the Deschutes River, and music by the earth-pop trio the Sweet Harlots; proceeds benefit Bend Paddle Trail Alliance; donations accepted; 4 p.m. demonstrations, 7 p.m. music; Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, 805 S.W. Industrial Way, Suite 6, Bend; 541-317-9407. MUSIC ON THE GREEN: Featuring retro funk and pop by County Line; food vendors available; free; 6-7:30 p.m.; Sam Johnson Park, Southwest 15th Street, Redmond; 541923-5191 or redmondsummerconcerts.com.
Friday, July 1 FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK: Event includes art exhibit openings, artist talks, live music, wine and food in downtown Bend and the Old Mill District; free; 5-9 p.m.; throughout Bend. RHYTHM ON THE RANGE: Weekend of live music, childrens activities, vendors; proceeds benefit New Generations and St. Charles heart fund; $5, $10 three-day pass; 5 p.m.; Meadows Golf Course, 1 Center Drive, Sunriver; 541593-4609, www.sunriver-resort.com. BOOKPLATE AUCTION AND RECEPTION: Featuring an announcement of the 2011 The Nature of Words authors and an auction; proceeds benefit The Nature of Words; $35; 5:30-8:30 p.m.; The Oxford Hotel, 10 N.W. Minnesota Ave., Bend; 541-647-2233 or www. thenatureofwords.org.
Saturday, July 2 HIGH DESERT GARDEN TOUR: View seven Redmond-area gardens in a self-guided tour; $10, free ages 16 and younger; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; throughout Redmond; 541-548-6088.
WEEN: The alternative rock group performs; $34 plus fees; 6:30 p.m., doors open 5 p.m.; Les Schwab Amphitheater, 344 S.W. Shevlin Hixon Drive, Bend; 541-318-5457 or www. bendconcerts.com. COMEDYCORE ALL-STAR SHOWCASE: Comedy from Jim Mortenson, Jake Woodmansee, Stan Whitton, Mark Vaughn and Randall Knight; ages 18 and older; $10 in advance, $12 day of show; 7:30 p.m.; Tower Theatre, 835 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541-3170700 or www.towertheatre.org.
Saturday-Sunday, July 2-3 RHYTHM ON THE RANGE: A weekend of live music, childrens activities, vendors and more; proceeds benefit New Generations and the St. Charles heart fund; $5, $10 three-day pass; 12:30 p.m.; Meadows Golf Course, 1 Center Drive, Sunriver; 541-593-4609 or www.sunriver-resort.com.
Monday, July 4 OLD FASHIONED JULY 4TH CELEBRATION & PET PARADE: Bend’s annual Fourth of July celebration in downtown Bend and Drake Park; 10 a.m.; www.bendparksandrec.org. FOURTH OF JULY PARADE: Themed “Yankee Doodle Dandy”; free; 10 a.m., checkin begins at 8:30 a.m.; downtown Redmond; 541-923-5191. OLD-FASHIONED FOURTH OF JULY: Featuring a splash ‘n’ dash triathlon, food, a kids’ area, exhibits, competitions, live music and more; free; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Ochoco Creek Park, 450 N.E. Elm St., Prineville; 541-4476304 or info@visitprineville.com.
Tuesday, July 5 “SHARED STORIES — PIECING TOGETHER MUSIC AND ART”: Quiltmakers from Gees Bend, Ala., share their experiences, with performances from the Americana Project; proceeds benefit the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show; $15, $10 ages 17 and younger; 7 p.m.; corner of Main and Spruce streets, Sisters; 541-549-0989, ann@sistersoutdoorquiltshow. org or www.sistersoutdoorquiltshow.org.
Saturday, July 9 SISTERS OUTDOOR QUILT SHOW: The 36th annual show features a display of more than 1,300 quilts; free; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; downtown Sisters; 541-549-0989 or www. sistersoutdoorquiltshow.org. SAGEBRUSH COMMUNITY CHALLENGE: A scavenger-hunt race, with points and prizes;
costumes encouraged; registration required; proceeds benefit regional nonprofits; $20, $10 ages 5-13, free ages 4 and younger; 10 a.m.; corner of Wall Street and Franklin Avenue, Bend; aimee@sagebrush.org or http:// sagebrush.org/communitychallenge. ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION: The Grammy-winning country act performs, with Jerry Douglas; $39, $62 reserved, plus fees; 6:30 p.m., doors open 5 p.m.; Les Schwab Amphitheater, 344 S.W. Shevlin Hixon Drive, Bend; 541-318-5457 or www.bendconcerts. com.
Wednesday, July 13 MUSIC ON THE GREEN: Featuring country music by the Brian Hanson Band; food vendors available; free; 67:30 p.m.; Sam Johnson Park, Southwest 15th Street, Redmond; 541-923-5191 or redmondsummerconcerts.com. SAGEBRUSH STREET FARE: Festival features local restaurants and live music, with food and beer pairings; proceeds benefit regional nonprofits; $10; 6 p.m.; downtown Bend; 541-388-0771 or http://sagebrush.org.
Friday, July 15 SAGEBRUSH CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT: Limited to 52 teams; registration required to play; proceeds benefit the Deschutes Children’s Foundation; $3,000 per team to play; 7:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. tee times; Broken Top Club, 61999 Broken Top Drive, Bend; 541-312-6947 or www. sagebrush.org. 4 PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL: Camping music festival features performances by Poor Man’s Whiskey, New Monsoon, Elephant Revival and more; $50; 1-10 p.m.; Rockin’ A Ranch, 19449 Tumalo Reservoir Road, Tumalo; 541382-8064 or www.4peaksmusic.com.
Saturday, July 16 DESCHUTES DASH: The weekend sports festival features triathlons, duathlons, 10K and 5K runs, and youth races; free for spectators; 8 a.m.; Old Mill District, 661 S.W. Powerhouse Drive, Bend; 541-3230964, race@layitoutevents.com or www. deschutesdash.com. 4 PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL: Camping music festival features performances by Poor Man’s Whiskey, New Monsoon, Elephant Revival and more; $50; noon-10 p.m.; Rockin’ A Ranch, 19449 Tumalo Reservoir Road, Tumalo; 541382-8064 or www.4peaksmusic.com.
Photos courtesy of Urban Spaces and Modern-Shed
ModernSheds
by Bunny Thompson / for The Bulletin Special Projects
I need more space. I need my own space. I need a space to put my stuff! These are common complaints often heard around our area. Over the last 10 years, the way we live and play has changed. These changes often mean we need a home office, a place for guests and a playroom for the kids, a hobby area, and of course the proverbial storage space. Given the current economic constraints, making additions to our homes can be prohibitively expensive. Another less-costly solution is emerging as a trend, an option that can be attractive, practical and personalized to your needs. Buy a shed — not just the old garden-tool storage variety, but a modern shed. “It’s not your average shed,” said Jeff Carter, owner of Urban Spaces in Bend. “Our buildings can be utilized for anything the mind can think of. They can have glass fronts, insulation, flooring, dry wall, and the customer gets to design the building themselves. “Generally, the cost is 30 to 40 percent less than the cost of traditional home additions.”
Once just a place to keep the rakes and the lawn mower, today’s more versatile sheds are used for a number of different functions, tasks and lifestyles. Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 9
“It’s not your
average shed. Our buildings can be utilized for anything the mind can think of.”
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10 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
The most popular size shed is a 10 by 12 feet. For more specialized use, many people opt for larger sheds in the 10-by-20 or 12-by-16-foot range. Many of the sheds are constructed using simple designs that include insulation, flooring and windows. A number of options are available, and the homeowner can add electricity, heat and bathrooms as needed. Some of these amenities are necessary as homeowners are utilizing sheds for such a wide variety of functions, tasks and hobbies — from an artist’s studio to a graphic designer’s space, a quilter’s area, a music workroom, an author’s getaway from the hubbub of kids and phones, a yoga or meditation room, or a place
for kids who are returning home while they look for a job. Just think peace and quiet, alone time or a place to house your favorite hobby, and these building are a complement to your home rather than an intrusion. There are many design styles, materials and colors to easily blend with your existing home. Urban Spaces sells a panelized building system manufactured by Modern-Shed in Seattle,. The customer helps with the design, which is sent to Seattle. Panels are pre-manufactured to the customer’s plans, shipped and assembled in place at the customer’s location. “There is very little waste, and the finished product is in place within six to eight weeks,” Carter said. Richard Klyce, owner of Outbuilders in Redmond since 1992, has seen a change in the general attitude and outlook of customers about sheds and outbuildings in the last few years. “These pre-designed stock sheds or custom designed buildings are a low-cost alternative to a full-scale unit,” Klyce said. “Houses in Central Oregon don’t usually have basements,
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moved from over top of the telescope so the stargazer could search the night sky. Kim, a clothing designer in Portland, wanted to cut her expenses of renting a design space in the city. She now has a shed that she utilizes as her studio on her own property just behind her house. “I can be close to home to be there for my kids, and I have a space so an outbuilding or shed is a good alternative.” Outbuilders has classic designs such as The Cascade, The Getaway and The Better Barn. There’s even a Pacific series with a Gable roof and an upstairs. If a chicken coop is in your plans, Outbuilders has one that can handle four to six birds. With the population aging and the cost of assisted living unaffordable for many people, the option of building a separate living facility for parents that offers autonomy and privacy is attractive. Homeowners should check with their Homeowner’s Association, city and county zoning laws and regulations for adding a separate building. The most unusual shed designed for a customer? Klyce designed an observatory for a customer built on a slab and on tracks. The building
a place to enjoy time with family and friends… or a place all your own. that is distinctly mine,” she said. Morgan in Seattle had planned to use her son’s bedroom for her yoga studio after he went to college. When her son decided to live at home while going to school, Morgan ordered a Modern-Shed. With a winding pathway through backyard trees and shrubbery, the small building is functional with a feng shui appeal. “It’s a very peaceful meditative space,” Morgan said. She also uses an area of the building for writing, and finds she is able to get a lot more done than when she was located within the confines of her home. For more information about Modern Sheds, visit Urban Spaces at www.myurbanspaces.com. Learn more about the options available at Outbuilders at www.outbuilders.com.
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Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 11
CENTRAL OREGON 101: Old Mill District
Dominating the
SKY
by Lori Gleichman, for The Bulletin Special Projects Department
From almost any viewpoint in Bend, a gaze across the horizon will settle on the three smokestacks jutting up into the sky. Capping the old brick powerhouse that has also been restored to house REI, these towering columns are one of the few historic reminders left of the lumber mills that defined Bend for much of its 100-year-plus history. At their peak, the Brooks-Scanlon and Shevlin-Hixon operations were two of the largest pine sawmills in the world. Based along the shores of the Deschutes River, they ran around the clock, employing more than 2,000 workers each, mostly strong men processing lumber harvested from surrounding forests for export around the world. In the 1950s, intensive logging began to take its toll, and timber supplies began to dwindle. Shevlin-Hixon sold its interests to BrooksScanlon, but slowly the mills began to close until they were all gone by the early 1980s. The plat of land that had once been Bend’s shining economic glory was in a state of near ruin before developer Bill Smith began rebuilding the Old Mill District into what it is today: a mecca for
Did you know? • The stacks are regularly inspected and maintained. • The illuminated flag flies every day, except when it has to be replaced. Then someone hoists up by hand in a basket to replace it, or to place the Christmas tree on top each year. 12 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
• The lumber mills along the Deschutes River were designed to cut 400,000 to 600,000 board feet of lumber each day. • When local men left to fight in World War I, crews made up of mostly women worked in the mills to provide the lumber that was critical to the war effort.
residents and tourist alike seeking out fine dining, shopping, concerts, movies and beautiful sunset strolls along the river. Part of Smith’s vision was restoring what could be saved, and he always knew that he wanted to preserve the smokestacks if possible. After all, they were the “icon of the old mills; the icon of the site.” After extensive inspections and a “lot of work,” it was decided they could stay. Made of steel, each stack stands 205 feet tall. The two north stacks were built in 1922, and the third one on the south was added in 1926. The third stack is just slightly larger than the other two, although Smith didn’t know how wide they were or how much they weighed. “A lot,” was his guess.
Just add the
FISH Step 1: catch a fish. Step 2: Enjoy the flavor potential of your catch. by Annissa Anderson / for The Bulletin Special Projects Photos by Nicole Werner
A wise fly fisherman, my husband, once told me that the most important thing about catching a freshwater fish that you plan to eat is to catch it in cold water. A fish caught in cold, flowing water tastes fresh and its flavor is true; a fish caught in warmer, stagnant water taste more like its murky environment. Once this freshwater fish is out of
water, knowing a little bit about the type of fish can help you decide how to cook it. Some of the tastiest fish to be caught in Oregon’s fresh waters — rivers, streams, lakes or reservoirs — are trout, bass, crappie, steelhead, Kokanee and sturgeon. This article will take a look at each type of fish and some great ways of preparing them to get the most out of your catch.
Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 13
Trout
Cooking Fresh Fish Learning just a few simple rules for cooking freshwater fish will improve your culinary experience. Read on for some tips that will help you get the most flavor out of your catch. • KEEP IT FRESH. Make sure the fish you’re using is fresh. Whether you caught it yourself or bought it from a market, fish should have been kept on ice, not smell fishy, and should have a moist, shiny appearance. • RINSE THE FISH. Rinse the fish or fillets in gently flowing cold fresh water, and dry thoroughly with paper towels right before seasoning and cooking. • MIX AND MATCH. Before deciding how to cook your fish, consider the type of fish you are preparing. The color of the meat, its flavor and its texture all play a role in determining the best cooking method. Fish with lighter meat, such as bass, should be broiled or poached, while darker, firmer meats, like that found on trout, can benefit from the smokiness of the grill. • DON’T OVERCOOK. Know when to say when during the cooking process. Fish is done when it is opaque in color and the flesh flakes easily. The same goes for seasoning; fish meat is often delicate, and usually a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper is all the seasoning it needs before cooking. • FRY ONLY DRY. If you are considering frying your fish, stick with a dryer fish, like crappie, rather than one that contains a lot of oil, such as steelhead. Fish with a lot of oil will stay too moist for any breading to properly crisp up, resulting in a soggy mess. • GRILL WITH INDIRECT HEAT. To grill meatier fish, use indirect heat, like cooking in foil or on a wood plank. This will slow down the cooking process, allowing the center of the fish to cook without burning the outer skin. • FLIP IT ONCE. A common mistake that people make when frying or grilling fish is turning it too many times. If the fish is less than a half-inch thick, flipping it once is enough. Always brown or mark the fleshy side first when frying for best presentation. 14 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
Available year-round, many varieties of trout live, and are caught, in Oregon’s lakes, rivers and streams. Rainbow, brown, brook and lake trout are some of the most common varieties caught, and eaten. Trout come in all sizes, and as is the case with most fish, are tastiest when caught in cold, flowing water. With a substantial amount of subcutaneous fat, trout are best cooked with the skin on. Trout can be cooked whole or boned and filleted; poaching, pan frying, grilling and smoking are excellent methods for cooking trout.
Bass & Crappie
Largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as crappie, are readily available in spring and summer to fisher people in Oregon’s fresh water lakes and rivers. The mild, white meat of these fish is not oily, so it is best cooked in oil or butter for added flavor. Bass and crappie should be skinned and filleted before cooking. The fillets are best poached in butter, broiled or pan fried; if grilling, use indirect heat and do not overcook.
Steelhead
Steelhead, available seasonally (July through December), are a favorite of fly fishermen in Oregon. Taxonomy aside, a steelhead is just a sea run rainbow trout. A versatile fish for cooking, recipes calling for trout and salmon both apply to steelhead. Smoking and grilling steelhead with its oily skin attached is the preferred method. Smoked steelhead fillets will keep, refrigerated, for weeks. If you plan to freeze a steelhead, it is best to keep the fish intact (but gutted) until you are ready to use it.
Kokanee
Kokanee is a word from the Okanagan language referring to land-locked lake populations of Sockeye salmon. This trout-sized fish is abundant in certain Central Oregon lakes and reservoirs. It is best prepared with the same methods as trout and salmon.
Sturgeon
The white, or Columbia, sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish in North America. These prehistoric-looking fish, available seasonally in the Columbia River north of Central Oregon, are known to reach a maximum size of nearly 1,800 pounds and 20 feet in length. Sturgeons are cartilaginous, rather than bony. The meat is delicious, with a texture similar to swordfish. Fishermen who hook a “keeper” sturgeon must know how to fillet this fish; sturgeon fillets must be free of all skin and fat for cooking as sturgeon fat goes rancid with heat. The skinless fillets are best poached, grilled, smoked or pan fried. Again, overcooking will ruin the delicacy of the meat. Eating freshwater fish can be quite a treat when they are just out of the water. And they are also nutritious; the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week, especially species high in omega-3 fatty acid such as salmon, mackerel, herring and trout. So go fishing, and start enjoying!
Sturgeon in Creamy Tomato & Mushroom Sauce (Serves 4)
Cornmeal-Crusted Trout with Fried Sage Leaves (Serves 4)
If you’ve never had sturgeon, find it in season and try this recipe, adapted for the home cook from an authentic Russian recipe. If sturgeon is unavailable, saltwater fish like swordfish or monkfish make good substitutes. The rich and creamy sauce, accented by earthy mushrooms and salty capers, drapes itself luxuriously over simply cooked fish fillets.
Try coating trout fillets with cornmeal before frying them to create a crunchy, sweet crust to play off the trout’s earthy flavor. Crispy sage leaves add another pleasing flavor and texture, elevating a simple dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
Four 6-ounce fresh sturgeon fillets Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon canola oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup thinly sliced fresh mushrooms 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1/2 cup vegetable stock 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons capers, drained and washed Chopped fresh chives, for serving
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a 10- or 12- inch skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the sturgeon fillets with the salt and pepper. Sear them on both sides until lightly browned. Remove to a baking sheet. 2. Melt the butter in the same skillet over high heat, and when the foam has almost subsided, drop in the mushrooms. Reduce the heat to moderate and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring the mushrooms occasionally, until they are soft and most of the juices have cooked away. 3. Place the baking sheet with the sturgeon fillets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through. 4. Meanwhile, add the tomato paste to the pan with the cooked mushrooms, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to coat the mushrooms. Add the stock and bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the heavy cream, a bit at a time. Then stir in the capers and season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the fish fillets, garnish with chopped chives and serve at once.
... the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week ...
Ingredients:
Four 6-ounce trout fillets, rinsed and patted dry Salt and freshly ground pepper All-purpose flour, for dusting 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water Yellow cornmeal, for dredging 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 8 large sage leaves Vegetable oil, for frying Lemon wedges, for serving
Method:
1. Put the flour, egg and cornmeal in three shallow bowls. Season the trout fillets with salt and pepper and lightly dust them with flour, tapping off the excess. Dip the fillets in the beaten egg, then dredge them in the cornmeal. 2. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add the sage leaves and cook over moderate heat, turning once, until crisp, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the sage leaves to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Add 1/4 inch of vegetable oil to the skillet and heat until shimmering. Carefully add the trout fillets and fry over moderately high heat until golden brown and just cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. 3. Divide the fillets among four plates, garnish each fillet with two sage leaves and a lemon wedge, and serve immediately.
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Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 15
Slow Food
EVENTS
in Central Oregon
Here at home, Slow Food High Desert (SFHD) regularly sponsors “slow” events in Central Oregon, including a few that are right around the corner:
Farm to Table Dinner
Sunday, June 26, 3 p.m. at Central Oregon Community College (COCC), Bend; a meal prepared by the Cascade Culinary Institute students; $95; proceeds will go toward providing a scholarship to a deserving culinary student and to stock the new culinary kitchens; co-sponsored by the COCC Foundation.
August Bounty Dinner
Sunday. Aug. 14 at Maragas Winery, Bend; local chefs will be preparing local foods to show case the best of Central Oregon’s bounty; food, drink, music and more.
Plots to Plates Farm School
Two-week programs, May to October, Terrebonne; by Sarahlee Lawrence from Rainshadow Organics and Sweet Medicine Nation from Four Winds Foundation; a hands-on farm school where students learn how to be good, fair, sustainable farmers; mission: to educate and foster ecological renewal, economic viability, and social justice in local, sustainable food education programs; plotstoplates. wordpress.com.
Farmers Market
Fridays, 3-7 p.m., Redmond Greenhouse, Hwy 97; SFHD hosts a booth each week during the summer.
Movie Night
Monthly at COCC; SFHD shows critically acclaimed movies and documentaries related to food issues; see the “Slow Food High Desert Facebook page for upcoming movies and events. 16 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
LOCAVORE’S CORNER:
How SLOW is
YOUR FOOD
The Slow Food movement remains active here in Central Oregon by Chef Bette Fraser / for The Bulletin Special Projects
When you sit down at the table to have a meal, do you know where your food comes from, how it was produced and by whom? This question should be asked when we are eating at home or at a restaurant, both here in Central Oregon and when we venture out into the world. Of course, the glib answer is that our food comes from the grocery store. But the food doesn’t magically appear in the grocery store. And where do restaurants or fast food chains get their food? These questions and others were a concern to a man in Italy named Carlo Petrini during the late 1980s. Italy has long had a culture of enjoying the pleasures of the table, whereas the people of the U.S., in particular, have moved to a fast food culture that has forgotten what good food is all about. Petrini started what was to become the International Slow Food Movement, which has made people around the world — including people here in Central Oregon — care again about where they get their food. Slow Food is an international nonprofit organization with members in 150 countries who are committed to the concept that food should be good, clean and fair. It boasts more than 100,000 members in more than 1,300 chapters worldwide, and a network of 2,000 food communities that are determined to practice sustainable food production. Central Oregon even has its own Slow Food chapter: Slow Food High Desert. With the rise of fast food and an even faster life, along with the disappearance of food traditions and interest around the world —
where it came from and what it tastes like — the birth of Slow Food was long overdue. Our food choices were affecting the rest of the world, not just ours in the U.S. but what others were doing around the world as well. Slow Food founders and members saw an opportunity to band together to discuss these problems and to get involved, to educate and to learn. Now more than 20 years later, programs, education and literature is disseminated regularly to individuals, schools, countries and governments around the world. Slow Food has started programs like Terra Madre, a biennial event in Italy that brings together small scale farmers, chefs, fishermen, food artisans and youths from around the world who work to protect biodiversity, to improve the food system and to preserve the taste of food. Another program is called Slow Food in Schools. Chapter members reach out with community based youth food education projects, teaching cooking classes and planting schoolyard gardens to give kids hands-on opportunities to see where their food comes from. Slow Food High Desert welcomes new members all the time. Membership is $25 per year, and events are discounted to members. How can you eat more slowly? First, stop and think about what you are eating at every meal. Sometimes we get caught up in the idea of just putting food in our mouths and forgetting about the pleasures of eating a great
meal with family or friends or enjoying local foods, like Oregon strawberries, at the height of the season. Next, purchase fresh, seasonal and local products. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint, it helps your neighbor — the farmer or rancher. And you get the benefit of food that just tastes better. There are many shopping avenues available to you other than the traditional grocery store for the purchase of your family meals: farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture, Central Oregon Locavore, buying directly from the farm or ranch, and growing it yourself. We also need to ask the restaurants that we frequent where they get their food. We can vote with our fork and with our dollars. If we support the idea of slow food — good, clean, fair food — we can all do it every day with every meal. Sit down and enjoy your meal. Eat slowly; eat locally. We will all be better for it. Chef Bette Fraser is the proprietor of The Well Traveled Fork, hosting cooking classes, culinary tours and providing catering services. She can be reached at WellTraveledFork.com or 541-312-0097.
YARD SALE
SUCCESS Make your sale smooth and successful.
by Kristy Hessman / for The Bulletin Special Projects
The weather is finally warming up and the lawn has thawed, time to think about putting on a yard or garage sale. Where to begin? Putting on a sale can be a daunting task, but being organized and preparing ahead of time can prevent many of the headaches that can come from organizing a sale. Most importantly, “try to pick a date a few weeks in advance and stick with it,” says Tammie Barber, owner of Tammie to the Rescue, a professional home and office organizer. She suggests asking your neighbors if they want to have a sale at the same time to create a bigger buzz and spread around some of the work involved in getting the word out. Also consider holding the sale just one day. “I suggest one day between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.” said Dana Black, professional organizer and owner of The Spatial Specialist. “The best items are gone within the first few hours; don’t waste a second day only to make a few dollars.” Once you’ve picked your date, it’s important to decide how you are going to get the word out. Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 17
“Ask yourself, ‘Would you buy it?’ If you are not sure and it looks important, go on the Internet and research it.” Both Barber and Black suggest posting signs around your neighborhood and making sure they are visible from the road. Other options include advertising in the local newspaper, listing the sale online, and sending out emails to friends and family to get out the word. When deciding which items to put in the sale, be sure to keep your buyer in mind. “Ask yourself, ‘Would you buy it?’ If you are not sure and it looks important, go on the Internet and research it,” said Barber. “With clothes of course, if it is torn, ratty
18 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
or dirty, get rid of it.” A day or two before the sale, start staging and pricing items in the garage as much as possible. Arrange your items in an appealing way that will draw in buyers. When it comes to pricing your items, it’s important to remember that just because you paid a lot for something, doesn’t mean someone else will. “Big-ticket items should be a fraction of the original price,” Black said. “Clothing should be a couple of dollars apiece or less. If you have some great designer jeans in perfect condition, go ahead and charge $10
or $15, but if they are not selling, lower the price.” Barber suggests tagging as many of the items as you can so people will have a starting point to haggle from. If you just want to get rid of items, you can leave off the tag and let people make offers. Be sure to have everything you might need before people start coming to the sale. Black suggests filling a basket with the following: pens, extra price tags, water bottle, gum, a snack, note pad, telephone. And don’t forget to go to the bank and get change the day before.
Also, be realistic about the amount of money you will make at the sale. “Garage Sales are a lot of hard work and time and do not think you will make what you think you will,” Barber said. “Probably half of what you envision is what you will make.” After the sale, be sure to have a plan to get rid of everything that doesn’t sell. “If you need a truck to take the excess to your favorite charity, have it there at closing,” Black said. “Load immediately and take it away.”
HOME DECOR
Serious about SECTIONALS According Michelle Thorstrom, owner of Haven Home Styles in downtown Bend, not all sectionals are created equal. “A sectional is versatile, so it can offer you a custom fit for any sized room,” she said. “Styles range from contemporary to very traditional, and as for size, you can piece together a sectional to be as large or a small is you want.” Essentially a sofa that is made up of more than one piece, sectionals can provide maximum seating for a casual environment, be it within a great room or a family room. They provide homeowners
SHAPE
When shopping for a sectional, a homeowner can literally piece together a shape that specifically fits a room as well as offers optimal seating space. For instance, pairing two one-arm sofas with a square corner can accommodate an L-shape space, while switching the square corner with an armless corner wedge will provide a wider, more open angle for a rounder space. Sofa sections can also pair with love seats, chairs or chaises to provide as much or as little seating as a room and a lifestyle dictates. Some combinations can even wrap around a space, creating a tighter, more intimate setting.
SIZE and designers with options — options for shape, for size, and for a room’s level of comfort or formality.
Another consideration when selecting a sectional is size — height as well as inside-seat depth. According to Thorstrom, the size of a room
COMFORT
will help to dictate your height needs. “With a larger room, you need a higher back in order to be evenscaled,” she said. “Otherwise, the furniture will look too small, or like ‘hobbit furniture.’” A back with a lower profile allows a room to feel more open, and if your sectional sits near a picture window, it won’t block your view. “If you have a great room with an open floor plan, you’ll want a lower back so you don’t feel like you’re separating the spaces,” she said.
While height is more a functional consideration, inside-seat depth is all about comfort — whether you plan to sit on your sectional or in your sectional. “A seat depth from 23 to 26 inches allows you to sit in your sectional,” Thorstrom said. “It’s great for curling up and watching movies in the family room.” In contrast, Thorstrom says, 20 to 20 inches is a more formal depth for a sectional. “At that depth, your feet will be comfortably on the ground while you lean back on the sofa,” she said. “This sectional would be better in a living room where people are sitting more upright, perhaps talking or visiting.” When it comes to ordering or buying a sectional, Thorstrom said the staff at Haven Home Style can assist in choosing the perfect seat depths and back heights to fit both you and your room.
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Call us to schedule a complementary consultation. 856 NW Bond • Downtown Bend • 541-330-5999 • www.havenhomestyle.com Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 19
StayWITHOUT Cool AC
Illustration by Nicole Werner
by Robert Springer / for The Bulletin Special Projects
Central Oregonians have a somewhat primitive but highly effective method of keeping their homes cool in the summer: night flushing. Night flushing allows a homeowner to replace the day’s buildup of warm air with our naturally cool summer night air, according to Bruce Sullivan, New Homes Outreach Program Manager and Green Building Consultant with EarthAdvantage, a nonprofit that helps the building industry use sustainable building practices. “Most people who have lived in Central Oregon for a few years realize that there is a huge temperature swing between day and night,” he said. “Swinging windows open at night and then closing windows and shades during the day helps keep the cool air in and the warm air out. “Our daily temperature swing can make a huge difference in terms of people being able to cool their houses. You can’t do this in the Midwest, but you can here.” Surprisingly, a two-story house is easier to cool, Sullivan said. Start by opening windows on both floors to “get some convection going.”
20 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
“What I like to do in my house is to use the ceiling fans,” Sullivan said. “Open the windows wide; they need to be open really wide because you need a large volume of air flowing through the house, and then turn the ceiling fans on. “The nice thing about two-story houses is that you can open the upper ones a lot and crack the downstairs one a little bit at night. You could add some security like a pole that doesn’t allow them to open very much. That’s one way to get some cooling while minimizing your risk,” he said. Is it really possible to get through a Central Oregon summer without turning on the AC? It depends on your tolerance level, Sullivan said. “I know many people who have lived through many Central Oregon summers without any AC,” he said. “I almost always make it through the whole year. It can be done, but you have to be tolerant of that one week of the year, usually in July, where you will be a little bit uncomfortable because it won’t cool off enough at night. “If your house is well insulated with good windows, you have a better chance of success. Having a 1970s ranch house with aluminum windows decreases your
“Our daily temperature swing can make a huge difference in terms of people being able to cool their houses.”
chances of success.” As cheap and easy as night flushing is, it isn’t for everyone. If a home has many large windows that face westward, it’s unlikely that night flushing will be effective. “If your house is oriented east-west, you’ll tend to get blasted in the mornings and afternoons,” Sullivan said. “And if you have a big wall of glass that faces west, it’s great for your mountain views but you have no hope for using night flushing.” How much can a homeowner save by taking advantage of our natural air conditioning? Sullivan said that it costs about $70 a month to cool a typical Central Oregon home. That typical homeowner could save more than $150 if he or she practiced regular night flushing. While night flushing is the most popular and cost effective way to cool a home, Sullivan recommends a few other ways of keeping a home cool:
Plant Greenery
Plant deciduous trees or climbing plants to prevent the strong summer rays from reaching your house. “The classic vining plant is wisteria, but it doesn’t do well here,” Sullivan said. “I’m trying hops.”
Insulate
Check your attic insulation to make sure that it’s R50. “Attic insulation is really a good choice for protecting you from the hot attic during the summer and keeping the heat in during the winter,” said Sullivan.
Minimize Appliance Usage
Try not to generate heat during the day. Clothes dryers and ovens are large sources of household heat. Sullivan dries his clothes on an indoor clothesline, which has the added benefit of adding a bit of comfortaiding humidity to our dry air.
Create Shade
Add an outdoor window shade, which can be made of bamboo or shade cloth that sits over the windows. “It’s better to intercept the heat before it gets in the house than reflect it back out,” Sullivan said.
Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 21
COLOR TRENDS
PRIME
TIME
To prime or not to prime, that is the question. With all the talk about self-priming and “paint and primer in one” products on the market, there are several situations that really do require a quality primer if you want a first –class paint job. A primer is necessary if your project includes painting: --NEW PLASTER OR DRYWALL --NEW INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR TRIM --STAINED OR GLOSSY SURFACES --CONCRETE OR MASONRY --SIGNIFICANTLY CHANGING COLORS --WEATHER DAMAGED OR EXTERIOR HORIZONTAL WOOD SURFACES If you choose to use a topcoat without the RIGHT primer, in these types of situations, you only mask the problem and it will reoccur later. Often times, primers are less expensive than quality topcoats, so you are actually saving money and getting better results when you use a primer. If you bypass the priming step in these projects, you’re really doing yourself and your project a disservice.
many of these situations. However if you are painting weather damaged or exterior horizontal surfaces, there is one primer specially engineered for this purpose that truly stands out. PPG Pittsburgh Paints’ Seal Grip Permanizer Plus Wood Stabilizer Primer is a urethane acrylic formula that actually helps seal cracked weathered wood. After proper preparation, this product stabilizes unsound wood surfaces by filling in the voids and providing a uniform sealed surface for a finish coat. This product can be very helpful if you have problem areas, like peeling handrails, wood window sills, or weathered T-111 siding. The best paint and primers on the market may not prevent eventual peeling if the surface to be painted is not properly prepared. You must remove as much loose paint as possible, by scraping, wire brushing, sanding, and or pressure washing. The surface should be clean, dry, and dull. Apply caulking to all joints, corners and gaps. Painting is a crucial element to maintaining your home. Proper preparation and using the appropriate quality products will insure a long lasting finish.
There are several multi-purpose primers that can be used in 22 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
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Photos by Lyle Cox
Gardening going to
POTS
Harvest the endless versatility of a container garden. by Doug Stott / for The Bulletin Special Projects
It is no wonder that with all the recent attention focused on backyard gardening, there is also an increasing interest in growing plants in containers. For years, many folks have relied on this aspect of gardening due to the versatility this method of gardening offers. There are, however, a few tricks and tips that might just make the difference between a smiling face or a frustrated look of gardener bewilderment. Let’s first examine what container gardening really is and what benefits it could offer.
What is Container Gardening?
From an expert’s viewpoint, container gardening is a method of gardening in which the targeted crop is grown in a confined vessel. This vessel is usually constructed of wood, earthen clay or plastic. The size can most certainly be variable, but it is usually small enough to be moved, adding great diversity in terms of amount of sunlight, dodging weather-related issues, and personnel design layout. It might also be interesting to note that there is a growing interest in vertical gardening. This method uses an assortment of specific containers that either stack or are hung on walls, thus providing yet
another interesting way to grow a variety of plants in an interesting and versatile way. There are a number of reasons why folks may consider container gardening — physical restraints, lack of available space and keeping it simple, neat, tidy and portable. Whatever the reason, I am sure that if you are a gardener, you will at some point in your life pursue this method of growing herbs, flowers, fruits and veggies.
Select Containers & Soil
As you make your selection of containers, it is paramount that these vessels have apt holes for draining. If I had to classify the number one reason
Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 23
for failure with this type of growing, it would be the issue of poor soil drainage. When plants are kept too wet, roots begin to rot, and your once wonderful project can turn to ruins. Garden center personnel should be able to assist you in making correct choices in regards to this issue. I would also like to express the important role size plays in your choice of containers. The larger the container (up to a certain point), the greater potential you will have with success. Larger containers offer more room for growing roots, ease and less watering demands, and a buffer between the plant and the temperature extremes during our sometimes hot summer season. Once you have selected your containers as well as possible wheel-supported planter dollies for ease of movement, your next step is to find the proper soil. Unless you are a seasoned gardener with experience in blending soils, I would recommend a professional packaged soil variety. Your choice might include Black Gold or Happy Frog organic blends. Fertilizing your finished project is best served using liquid organic nutritional blends such as Earth Juice bloom or grow, depending upon your specific plant selections.
24 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
Flowers & Herbs
Now that we have a basic understanding of this type of gardening, let’s take a look at some of the plant possibilities and what they have to offer within the confines of a container. Before you begin your search, however, make sure you have identified the planter location as it relates to sunlight, or the lack thereof. The right plant in the right location will most certainly provide a higher degree of success. As for great “container plants,� the first group that comes to mind would be the family of culinary herbs. Not only do they perform well in containers, but you can place them in close proximity to the patio barbecue. Your herbal choices might include basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme and culinary sage. For those somewhat shaded areas, you might choose mints and lemon balm (great for that glass of sun tea), or parsley and chives (these grow equally good in full sun). It might also be fun to add a calendula (pot marigold) or nasturtium (both are edible) for added interest in those sunny planters. For a touch of flair you might locate a dwarf ornamental grass in the middle of the container for height and overall esthetic balance.
From an expert’s viewpoint, container gardening is a method of gardening in which the targeted crop is grown in a confined vessel ... usually constructed of wood, earthen clay or plastic. Veggies & Fruits
When it comes to great container vegetable choices, the number one selection is the tomato. Your best choices would include the bush, patio or dwarf varieties versus large growing heirlooms. Bush Early Girl, Celebrity, Super Bush and Tumbling Tom all make great picks. Peppers also make another great sunny location choice. The hot and spicy as well as the sweet bells should all perform well as they are adaptive to container growing. Other tasty choices might include lettuce, spinach, “bush” varieties of squash and cucumbers, as well as carrots and radishes. If you are able to match the proper moisture content with your edible selections, you should be able to harvest a great crop. Strawberries and blueberries would top out the best selections when it comes to berries. Top Hat blueberry is a dwarf selection that was specifically bred for container growing. Great strawberry selections include Tri Star, Albion, Seascape and Diamente. I have also found that juicy, spicy currants and oldfashioned gooseberries work equally well. If you have the space and large enough containers, you might even try a semi-dwarf Lodi, Yellow Delicious or Braeburn apple tree. These self-pollinating apple trees, if pruned correctly (espaliered), could provide not only a patio conversation piece but the makings for a homemade pie. Large containers might also play home to a Tinkerbelle (dwarf treeform) lilac, Contorted Youngii birch or miniature cascading Siberian pea trees. By placing one of these selections in the center of your planter, then surrounding it with an assortment of colorful and fragrant
Protection the way you want it to be.
annuals, your patio may look so good you will have to quit your day job just to enjoy your new decorative patio. A decorative iron obelisk in the center of a larger pot would also be fun and add a dimension of height and drama to a larger container. Plant one of the hardy grapes at the base of it, then surround it with trailing wild strawberries. The possibilities are just endless! As you can now see, I have just begun to touch the tip of the iceberg in terms of all the creative fun you can have with this new found hobby. Container gardening offers just about
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everyone the possibility of expanding his or her green and growing hobby. You can now see that if you choose, just about any area can be enhanced with wonderful green and growing plants. If you monitor the watering closely, check periodically for insects and disease, and do a little plant branch pinching and pruning, you should be the recipient of a newfound joy of color, fragrance and an assortment of edibles.
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GARDEN CALENDAR July Pinch back annuals to keep them full of blooms.
Avoid fertilizing your lawn during this month. The hotter temperatures are more stressful for turfgrass, and you do not want to encourage excessive growth.
Plant flowers that attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs.
Continue to water your lawn 4 to 6 inches per month, as needed.
Plant trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals any time during the growing season. Deep water your trees, shrubs and perennials every five to seven days. Protect your berry crops from birds with bird netting. Stake tomatoes, delphinium, hollyhocks, lupine and other tall plants. Use row cover to protect your vegetable garden from flying insects. Plant seed beans, and harvest broccoli, peas, lettuce and radishes.
Plant garlic and cold season crops. Harvest potatoes when the tops die down. Store them in a cool, dark location until use. Establish sod any time during the growing season. Fertilize cucumbers, summer squash and broccoli, white harvesting to maintain production. Clean and fertilize strawberry beds. Prune away excess vegetation and new blossoms on tomatoes. This will improve the quality and flavor of your existing tomatoes.
Keep your potatoes and tomatoes consistently moist by watering thoroughly. This will produce better quality crops.
August Insect, weed or disease problems in your landscape? Your local OSU Master Gardeners can help you identify the problem and make recommendations for management. Call 541-548-6088 or check out our website at extension. oregonstate.edu/deschutes/index.php. Check leafy vegetables for caterpillars. Control with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
by Amy Jo Detweiler / Special to The Bulletin
New publications from
OSU Extension “Growing Table Grapes” An in-depth guide on growing table grapes, including establishing planting, maintenance, pruning, harvesting, pests and more. Visit extension.oregonstate. edu/catalog/ and search for “1639”
“Grow Your Own” A practical guide to gardening in Oregon, featuring vegetable varieties, planting dates, insect control, soil preparation and more. Visit extension.oregonstate. edu/catalog/ and search for “9027”
Central Oregon Garden Events Bee & Butterfly Gardening Class
Mini-Class - Ergonomic Gardening
For more information, call 541-475-7107.
For more information, call 541-548-6088.
Mini-Class - Growing Tomatoes in the High Desert
How to Use Bulbs in the Landscape
For more information, call 541-548-6088.
You may also order your bulbs during this time.
High Desert Garden Tour
Mini-Class - Late-Season Care of Tomatoes
Saturday, June 25, 9 - 11 a.m., OSU-Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras
Saturday, June 25, 5 11 a.m., NorthWest Crossing Community Garden., Bend.
Saturday, July 2, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Presented by OSU Extension Service and OSU Master Gardeners This year’s tour will include several home landscapes in the Redmond area. For tickets or information, contact the OSU Extension Service at 541-548-6088. Tickets: $10 each and go on sale after Wednesday, June 15.
Mini-Class - Companion Planting & Beneficial Insects Tuesday, July 12, 5:30 p.m., Hollinshead Community Garden, 1235 NE Jones Rd., Bend. For more information, call 541-548-6088. 26 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
Saturday, July 23, 11 a.m., NorthWest Crossing Community Garden., Bend.
Saturday, July 30, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Eastside Library., Bend.
Tuesday, August 9, 5:30 p.m., Hollinshead Community Garden, 1235 NE Jones Rd., Bend. For more information, call 541-548-6088.
Mini-Class - Keep Your Garden Growing
Saturday, August 27, 11 a.m., NorthWest Crossing Community Garden., Bend. For more information, call 541-548-6088.
Fact or Fiction:
When can I prune? A common myth states you can only prune your trees at certain times of the year. The reality is that you can prune most trees any time during the growing season. Pruning is done to restrict growth, train a plant, maintain plant health, or to improve the quality of fruit, flowers, or branches. If you are pruning to train a plant or restrict growth, it is undoubtedly easier to see the structure of the tree before it leafs out. So pruning in spring is ideal. Be sure not to prune too early in Central Oregon as pruning will stimulate the plant to push out new growth, which may get frosted in February or early March. Generally, it is safe to prune sometime mid-March up through the end of September. Ultimately, you can prune deciduous trees any time during the season; the tree is not impacted by “when” as it is actively growing. Just be sure to follow proper pruning techniques and not to prune too much. And while spring pruning is recommended for deciduous trees in Central Oregon, the same is not true for conifers, especially pine trees. You will want to wait until late summer or fall to prune your conifers so that the open pruning cuts and pitch does not attract the well-established Sequoia Pitch Moth. The female moth is attracted to open pruning cuts and can potentially lay eggs in them. The eggs will then hatch, and the larval of this insect will feed on the tree, causing the tree to try “pitching” it out, resulting in large blobs of pitch on the tree and some tree decline. By waiting until after her typical flight time has passed, you can keep your trees being attacked. — Amy Jo Detweiler, OSU Extension Service
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Offering Education &
INSPIRATION
The OSU Extension Service’s Deschutes County Demonstration Garden offers both eager and frustrated gardeners a place to learn. by Kari Mauser / for The Bulletin Special Projects
Just when I thought things were beginning to come together in my garden, everything went wrong. The gorgeous shrub I loved was apparently delicious, or so the deer thought as they devoured every last leaf. The vibrant perennials I’d been so thrilled to see sprouting new growth apparently decided summer was over when they froze to death during the night. Even the trees along the fence suddenly looked like something out of a Wes Craven movie, wilted beyond recognition in their parched state, despite what I thought was generous watering. Well, at least I’d have my strawberries and my rhubarb … except the bunnies and the bugs got them first. I was frustrated, but more than that, I felt defeated. The high desert seemed to be squashing my dreams of a pretty landscape. 28 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
Faced with this kind of gardening failure, it would be easy to give up, to simply embrace the sagebrush and weeds that seem to own the land here, maybe even break out the camera instead of the horn when the deer come for lunch. But like many things in life, gardening in the high desert simply requires doing some homework first. Books, magazines, and Internet resources abound, but trying to weed through all of that can quickly turn the joy of gardening into a dreadful chore. Instead, a field trip to the OSU Extension Services’ Deschutes County Demonstration Garden at the fairgrounds in Redmond offers not only education, but inspiration. The mission behind the garden, according to Amy Jo Detweiler, is to educate the community about creating landscapes with plants that are adaptable to the high desert. As Horticulture Faculty for Central Oregon OSU Extension Services, Detweiler finds it rewarding when
she sees people walking through the Demonstration Garden taking notes, knowing the information will be applied toward their own landscapes. “When I think about it, to me it’s about hands-on education and knowing that visual learning is always more helpful,” she said. “To be able to come here and see what’s working, what it looks like, how it grows — so that you can make informed decisions instead of buying plant material without knowing what you’re getting — that’s the goal.” The garden is not supposed to be an example of a beautifully designed garden. Instead, it’s about the individual plant materials that have proven successful through the OSU Master Gardeners’ research. “Everything out there has the research behind it showing that it works well here,” Detweiler
said. “And I want as many plants out there as I can fit that are cold hardy, water and fire smart, as well as deer resistant.” Yet the garden is also a demonstration of “right plant, right place,” taking into consideration not only whether it thrives in full or partial sun versus shade, but also the mature size of the plant. Nothing is Amy Jo Detweiler, Horticulture Faculty for OSU Extension of Deschutes County
crammed together. Different sections of the garden focus on specific plant types, including a native plants section, a native forest section, a turf grass section, and an edible plants section. Vine plants grow along the fence, and the whole garden is surrounded by native juniper plants, showing how native resources can be used successfully in design. Each plant example is labeled with a sign stating the name, scientific name, characteristics of the plant, including mature size in height and width, and how much sun it requires. The learning doesn’t end there; the garden is also a space where sustainable gardening practices are taught. From demonstrating how to properly plant using mulch materials, to how to collect runoff and return
it’s very hard to grow things in our area … and garden-to-table is so much healthier and better.” A walk through the garden is sure to inspire great ideas for any landscape, and it’s also likely to trigger a desire for even more information. Inside the office next to the garden, people can find volunteers to answer their questions and publications to take home for reference. “We’re just getting to a place where we’re going to do a lot more educational outreach,” Detweiler said. “Our plan is to offer community classes on everything from planting techniques, plant care, pruning, sustainable gardening, harvesting and how to put your gardens to bed.” Like all gardens in the high desert, the Demonstration Garden
Photos courtesy of OSU Extension
that water to the garden, the master gardener volunteers from the extension service program who plant and maintain the Demonstration Garden strive to extend as much research-based information into the community as possible. There’s even a 3-bin compost system on-site to teach people how to effectively compost. But sustainable gardening is not just saving water and composting. “People are very interested in learning how to grow their own food these days,” said Dowann Thebo, OSU Master Gardener and lead volunteer at the Demonstration Garden. “It’s so important to help people learn to garden because of the prices of food and knowing that
isn’t much to see before the sun and summer heat invite the plants back to life. It is still certain to reassure even the most defeated garden novice. As for my gardens, I’m going to find a new shrub, one that’s just as gorgeous but not as enticing for the local deer. Any perennials I plant will be cold hardy, and the trees drought resistant. I’m going to learn about using raised beds and rock walls to extend the growing season and plant not just strawberries and rhubarb, but some vegetables too. And I’m going to do all my homework at the Deschutes County Demonstration Garden. Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 29
HOME TECHNOLOGY
Solutions for the floor BELOW Modern home building is in many ways increasingly resembling projects of a more commercial nature, according to Bob Claridge, owner of Bobcat & Sun in Bend. Look no farther than the floor beneath your feet to see an example of this trend. “Like the commercial projects we’ve done for years, today’s modern, high-end homes require floors that do more than provide structure supporting the weight of people, appliances and home furnishings,” Claridge said. “Today’s homeowners want floors with radiant heating, that insulates sound and provides fire protection between floors.” Claridge says that his company, Bobcat & Sun, regularly utilizes a gypsum-based underlayment on floors that, when used correctly, will accomplish each one of these goals. “Everything starts with the floor,” Claridge said. “This Gyp-Crete, as they call it, is a remarkable product in that it’s self-leveling, can cover essentially any preexisting surface, and is friendly to the environment.” And once the underlayment is poured and dried, it can be covered with tile, hardwood, carpeting
— pretty much anything a homeowners desires. IN-FLOOR HEATING — Installed as a fast-drying liquid product, Gyp-Crete can be poured over hot water tubes or electric heating cables, acting as the thermal mass for any radiant floor system. The gypsum underlayment encapsulates the tubing or cables, creating a crack-resistance surface that’s more comfortable and more responsive to the heating system. SOUND INSULATION — GypCrete itself, which can be installed in a variety of thicknesses, naturally aids in sound resistance on its own. The inclusion of an Acousti-Mat barrier between the floor and the gypsum underlay-
ment, however, creates a quarterinch void in the floor that more drastically smothers the transfer of sound between the levels of a home, condo or office building. “This is such a simple thing to do, yet it works so well that you could dribble a basketball on the second floor and hardly hear a thing directly below it,” Claridge said. FIRE RESISTANCE — In a woodframed building, gypsum underlayment like Gyp-Crete provides a flame barrier between combustible materials, according to Claridge. “Installed properly, Gyp-Crete can better seal a room, fighting the spread of fire throughout a home, condo or commercial building,” he said.
Sound solutions for a world of floor challenges. Gyp-Crete is ideal for placement over wood or concrete subfloors in single-family, light commercial and multi-family construction as well as renovation projects. Offering sound solutions to today’s floor challenges. Bobcat & Sun is your local authorized applicator with over twenty years of experience. Call us today to discuss your project needs.
www.bobcatsun.com 30 | Central Oregon Living | Summer 2011
expert
advice A few myths about short sales Sometimes things in our lives things don’t make sense. For example, your brilliant son falling for a young woman who does crazy things for attention (Ms. Hilton?), or your daughter copying girls … like…Paris… Take short sales, as another example. They can make no sense whatsoever, yet they are a symptom of our current real estate market. If we try to understand them instead of judging them, we can navigate this tumultuous time with more knowledge and perhaps a little grace. Have you thought these thoughts before: “That [short] seller is ruining our homes’ values!” or “Realtors are making our market suffer by pricing these short sales too low!” Let’s talk about some myths about short sales: MYTH 1: I owe more on my house than it’s worth; I’ll just short-sale it. This is naïve on so many levels I’m not quite sure where to start. If you are considering a short sale, please consult your CPA, your attorney and your Realtor. TurboTax can’t help you here. Talk to someone first before you decide to stop your house payment(s).
MYTH 2: Short sales are on their way out. False. Short sales have been around since the Clinton Administration; they merely are more prevalent now. We had a double whammy of a huge market correction along with job losses with a national economic disaster. We’ve got them for a few more years. MYTH 3: An all-cash offer will speed up the process. Sorry, false again. All banks that assist a client with a short sale must follow its legal proceedings and short sale process. Your cash isn’t any more special than someone else’s. Banks are unemotional about “liquidating” assets. In their eyes, they are liquidating a liability — their time is their time. Roll with it, baby! (Cash can quicken the process once you obtain third-party approval. A-ha!) MYTH 4: Short sales are due to people who participated in 100 percent financing schemes. Nope! A majority of current short sales are owners who “did it right” by putting 20 percent or more down. They too have lost jobs, had health issues or extenuating circumstances that have affected their contractual agreement with their lender. For them and many others life is not easy. Try your best not to quickly judge short-sellers. Most of the time, they are doing the best they can with the options they have. You too may find yourself in a tight spot. Offer to mow their lawns or weed their yards,
especially if that little voice in your head says, “Wow, their lawn is making our neighborhood look bad.” They may just not have the energy to care the way they wish they could. MYTH 5: You can get a good deal on a short sale. This one’s true; it’s not a myth at all! A question from a new client today was: “What is the benefit as a buyer for purchasing a short sale?” If the property fits your needs, your timeframe for ownership and you have the capacity to afford being a homeowner, there are your benefits. Every home purchase fills different needs. What are yours? Your Realtor can help you answer that very involved question. MYTH 6: Realtors price short sale listings super low, ruining market values for everyone! False. While this may be attempted by unscrupulous agents, please know that banks have several checkpoints for values. Part of the short sale process is having a BPO done to verify the sales price. If the sales price is way off, the Broker Price Opinion (BPO) will correct the “error.” Many a short sale has fallen apart because the agreed-to price was too low. Since this is happening, why think you can low-ball a short sale by 30 percent to get that good deal? Banks are already taking a hit on their liability; they will not give it away. Cindy King is a principal broker at Steve Scott Realtors.
The Tour’s affordable, green-built project In southeast Bend, three new affordable homes are under construction. Thanks to Building Partners for Affordable Housing, the City of Bend, the State of Oregon, the federal government, citizens who paid into the Bend affordable housing fund, Earth Advantage and three experienced builders, this project will be a success. What makes these homes unique in today’s economy is they are third-party certified green built homes available to new home buyers that are under 100 percent of area median income. For a family of four, you can make no more than about $65,000 a year. The homes also come with around $35,000 in down payment assistance thanks to two federal programs. This project is a partnership designed to demonstrate that affordable housing can be built using state-of-the-
art construction techniques with minimal impact on the environment. The homes are designed to save the owner money in energy operating costs from year to year. They will have solar hot water and ductless heating/cooling that will save hundreds of dollars a year in energy bills. Building Partners was founded to bring affordable housing to Central Oregonians who are working and want the opportunity to own a home, but who have found that home ownership was just out of reach. Builders and members from the Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) worked to found the nonprofit near the peak of the real estate market due to the lack of affordable housing options at that time. There remains a need for working families and seniors. New homes in Bend that are third party-certified green-built homes under $185,000 are hard to find. For these new homes, the buyer will need to qualify for financing between $125,000 up to $150,000, depending on the lot and home desired. The COBA Building Green Council, working with the Bend Energy Education Coalition and the city of Bend, is involved in the project, providing energy efficiency education materials and seminars that will inform people
about techniques that can save them money when building or remodeling, whether they buy a home in this project or another one of their choosing. Working in partnership, the homes will be available to show on the 2011 Tour of Homes. Building Partners also wants to demonstrate that affordable doesn’t mean a home can’t exceed building codes and achieve best practices in construction. COBA has become one of the nation’s leading home builders associations offering a Green Building Award on its Tour of Homes. The 2008 Tour hosted the first LEEDH home built in Bend. The home was built by SolAire Homebuilders. In 2011 SolAire will feature the first net-zero home in Bend. The Tour of Homes will also provide additional materials on green building, Earth Advantage, NW Energy Star Homes and other energy conservation and sustainability programs. For more information please visit the COBA website at www.coba.org or call COBA at 389-1058. Tim Knopp is the executive vice president of the Central Oregon Builders Association. Summer 2011 | Central Oregon Living | 31