A Call to Action for Our Planet
The ongoing challenge of sustainability and climate action
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Every year on April 22nd, millions of people around the world celebrate Earth Day, a day commemorating environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s well-being. But how did Earth Day come about? The story of Earth Day is both fascinating and inspiring, a testament to how a collective push for change can have a lasting impact.
The Spark of the Movement
Earth Day actually dates back to the late 1960s when environmental concerns swelled across the United States. Issues of water pollution, air quality, pesticide use, and the loss of wildlife were looming large in the public consciousness. Rachel Carson’s 1962 book Silent Spring had already brought to light the dangers of pesticides, and a growing concern for the environment was beginning to take root.
It wasn’t until 1969, however, that the idea of Earth Day began to form. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin — alarmed by the lack of political attention to environmental issues —vowed to take action. He envisioned a nationwide teach-in focused on the environment to engage the public and pressure politicians to embrace the environmental cause. Nelson drew inspiration in part from the student protests of the 1960s, which demonstrated how grassroots movements could galvanize the public and bring about real change.
The First Earth Day: A Massive Success
Earth Day was born on April 22, 1970. Nelson, with the assistance of activist Dennis Hayes, mobilized an astonishing 20 million Americans across the country — about 10 percent of the U.S. population at the time — who came together in rallies, teach-ins, and protests. The movement was not just about protesting, but about generating a dialogue around the need for environmental regulation and conservation.
The first Earth Day was a monumental success. People from all walks of life came together, including students, teachers, scientists, and activists. For the first time, environmental issues were discussed on a grand scale, clearly showing that protecting the Earth was no longer a niche concern but one that deserved national attention.
The Birth of Environmental Legislation
The success of Earth Day extended far beyond rallies, however. Significant changes in U.S. policy resulted from this event. In the wake of the first Earth Day, Congress passed major environmental legislation, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was also created in 1970. It was clear that public opinion had shifted, and lawmakers took notice.
Earth Day Goes Global
Although Earth Day was born in the United States, its message resonated around the world. In 1990, Earth Day went international, with 200 million people in over 140 countries participating. Since then, Earth Day has continued to grow. Events now take place in countries across the globe, with the Earth Day Network actively coordinating the activities.
A Day for Action and Reflection
Today, Earth Day is more relevant than ever. As the planet grapples with climate change, deforestation, and diminishing biodiversity, Earth Day is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment.
So this April 22nd, whether you’re planting a tree, cleaning up a local park, or simply recycling a plastic container, remember that Earth Day is a day to celebrate the planet we all share, ensuring that it continues to be a healthy and enjoyable place for generations to come!
Grants Awarded
Community Chest and partners give greatly
The Camas-Washougal Community Chest and its partners, the Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation and the Camas Lions Foundation, are pleased to announce the award of 39 grants totaling $154,550 to nonprofit organizations delivering services, exclusively, to children and families in Camas and Washougal. The Rotary commitment to Service Above Self also adds volunteers to the mix as they work to make a difference in our community.
Community Programs/Projects Funded in 2025
Akin East County Family Resource Center • Supports operations, including parent and youth education groups, emergency assistance, behavioral health and healthcare services. Provides food, diapers, hygiene items and a weekend food program.
Bookish • Supports the purchase and retrofit of a vehicle into a traveling library, bringing books for all ages to parks, schools, markets, clinics and more, expanding access to literature.
Boy Scouts of America • Cascade Pacific Council / Girl Scouts Troop 45703 • Help fund Campership Awards so families in need can send their Boy and Girl Scouts to summer camp.
Camas School District – Principal’s Checkbook (Camas Family Community Resource Center) • Provides essential support for students and families facing instability, ensuring their education and well-being. School counselors request assistance to help students.
Camas Farmers Market • Supports “Produce Pals,” a weekly program teaching children about food production. Participants earn $2 tokens to buy locally grown fruits and vegetables.
Camas Robotics Booster Club • Supports registration, transportation, and outreach for students in financial need to participate in STEM classes and activities in Camas and Washougal.
Camas Washougal Parent Co-op Preschool • Supports the operating budget, classroom supplies, and upkeep to provide a safe and nurturing environment for preschoolers to learn and play.
Camp Currie 5 • Supports repairs to two picnic shelters and the replacement of footbridge #4, covering permitting, materials and labor for the next phase of improvements.
Cascadia Technical Academy Foundation • Supports the purchase of required uniforms for needy students, and funding for food, transportation and emergency assistance during financial hardships. Also provides transportation during summer school. Columbia Play Project • Supports 10 free events in Camas and Washougal for children aged 0 to 12, providing access to highquality, educational and equitable play experiences.
East County Citizen’s Alliance – Washougal Ivy League • Supports the purchase of tools to remove invasive species from Washougal parks and public spaces. Also covers liability insurance for volunteers, project managers, and website hosting services.
East County Student Travel • Supports travel expenses for an underprivileged student to explore American history and foster civic engagement through visits to Jamestown, Arlington, Washington DC, Gettysburg, New York City, and more.
Enspire Arts • Supports vibrant, interactive arts experiences that promote well-being and learning. The grant will fund insurance for participants or help cover operating expenses such as venue rental, supplies, artist fees, scholarships, and administrative costs.
Family Promise of Clark County • Supports the FP Cares program, which helps families prevent homelessness by providing rental assistance, back rent payments, security deposits, landlord mediation, and help with housing applications.
Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation – Washougal Branch • Supports the summer reading program, offering free literacy programs and incentives to improve reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills for youth before the fall school year.
Friends and Foundation of the Camas Library • Supports the expansion of the Circulating Kits program, which provides Storytime To-Go kits for young children, Hands-on Hobbies kits for teens and Memory kits for individuals experiencing memory loss.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge • Supports the “Explore the Gorge” program, providing classroom lessons and outdoor environmental education for sixth graders at Jemtegaard and Canyon Creek Middle Schools in the Washougal School District.
General Federation of Women’s Clubs Camas – Washougal • Supports the purchase of age-appropriate books and educational materials for Pre-K and elementary classrooms in the Camas and Washougal School Districts to enhance reading skills.
Hathaway Boosters Club • Supports the repair or replacement of playground equipment and the purchase and installation of new equipment at Hathaway Elementary School.
Hope Learning Center • Supports scholarships for families unable to afford alternative education for their children and provides funding for one-on-one tutors.
Human Dignity Foundation dba Good Shepherd Manor • Supports the construction of a pavilion for residents receiving end-of-life care, providing an outdoor space to enjoy nature’s beauty, including birds, animals, trees, and fresh air.
Impact CW – St. Matthew Lutheran Church • Provides food and grocery gift cards to families in the Camas and Washougal School Districts.
Janus Youth Programs • Supports outreach and overnight stays for runaway youth in Camas/Washougal at risk of abuse and neglect, helping them return to safe housing and services for stability.
Journey Theater Arts Group • Supports scholarships for six students from families facing financial hardship and funds American Sign Language interpretation for five show runs.
Kiwanis Camp Wa-Ri-Ki • Supports the Outdoor Environmental Education Program, offering campers activities that promote healthy living, personal growth, leadership, nature-based skills and community involvement.
Komak • Provides emergency financial assistance to individuals typically selfsupporting but unable to work during cancer treatment, helping prevent bankruptcy, eviction, homelessness and food insecurity.
Lacamas Watershed Council • Provides volunteer training, plus water quality monitoring equipment and testing supplies for collecting samples in the Lacamas watershed.
Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership • Supports the Students Outdoor Science program, offering lessons and outdoor learning activities for youth, including habitat enhancement projects near Gibbons Creek, Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Campen Creek in Mable Kerr Park, and Lacamas Creek Trail and Park.
Meals on Wheels People • Supports the Senior Nutrition Program, ensuring older adults have access to nutritious meals in their neighborhoods, offering social support through friendly conversations during meal delivery, and providing enrichment activities to combat social isolation.
Pink Lemonade Project • Supports the Treatment Access Program, Pink Practicalities and Holiday Glow, three financial aid programs for individuals with breast cancer. These programs cover costs not typically covered by insurance.
REACH Community Development • Provides groceries, baby essentials, cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and basic household needs. Also funds school supplies and holiday food baskets for the Gateway Gardens and Towne Square communities in Washougal.
ReFuel Washougal • Supports the children’s summer meal program, funds supplies for a 10-year volunteer appreciation lunch and helps purchase a branded pop-up tent for community events to raise awareness of community needs and recruit volunteers.
St. Anne’s Safe Stay Program • Supports the operating expenses of the Safe Stay program, including cleaning of port-apotties, use of outdoor electrical outlets, WiFi, showers, laundry and the kitchen.
The Little Wings Library • Supports the building of three little libraries in underserved areas and funds the purchase of at least 150 youth and teen books for each library.
Unite! Washougal Community Coalition • Supports Club Unite! at Jemtegaard and Canyon Creek Middle Schools; the Positive Community Norms project at Washougal High School; the “Love Your Life” campaign in Washougal; the Breathe Easy youth coalition; and the Support Our Ambassador Youth Program.
Washougal School District – Principal’s Checkbook • Assists school principals in providing support for low-income or homeless students, including an Adult Transition Program for students with disabilities. Also provides shoes, clothes, hygiene
products, food for Panther Den, and a mobile laptop cart for families lacking access to technology and internet services.
Washougal SAFE • Helps fund transportation costs (gas cards, bus passes, tire repair, and small engine repairs), emergency assistance for rent, deposits, utilities, and motel vouchers. Also provides funding for extracurricular activities, including musical instruments, uniforms, and participation/travel fees.
West Columbia Gorge Humane Society • Helps to keep pets and people together during hardship, crisis or emergency. Services include a pet food pantry, temporary boarding, impound/owner surrender fee relief and veterinary assistance.
Emergency Grant
Inter-Faith Treasure House • The Inter-Faith Treasure House requested $14,000 to replace their cargo van, which was deemed beyond repair by their auto shop. The van is crucial for efficiently moving food in pallet-size quantities, saving time and reducing strain on volunteers. The CWCC Board approved the emergency fund grant on Dec. 20, 2024. The replacement van made its first food pick-up from the Clark County Food Bank on Jan. 27, 2025.
Major Donors to CWCC
Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation
Camas Lions Foundation
GP Foundation
GP employees
Camas School District employees
City of Camas employees
City of Washougal employees
Port of Camas-Washougal employees
The Standard Insurance Foundation
Windermere Foundation
Watercare Industrial Services
Scan code for more details and donation forms.
The CWCC, CWRF and CLF are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for federal charitable tax deduction purposes.
Oregon’s First Black Seafarer
A Black sailor in early American exploration
By Oregon Black Pioneers
Markus Lopeus is one of the earliest-known people of African descent to set foot in Oregon. Lopeus was a native of Cape Verde, a volcanic archipelago located 400 miles west of the North African mainland. The Portuguese discovered the islands in the 15th century and began to establish a permanent presence there. Enslaved Africans made up the majority of the islands’ population – but there was also a population of free Africans, including the Lopeus family.
In 1787, American ship captain Robert Gray set off from Boston in the sloop Lady Washington for his first voyage to the Pacific Northwest. Gray, along with Captain John Kendrick of the brig Columbia, were bound for the Pacific Northwest in search of sea otter pelts to exchange in China for tea, silk, spices, and porcelain.
When the Lady Washington stopped in Cape Verde for water and supplies, Markus Lopeus volunteered to join the ship’s crew. Lopeus served as the ship’s cabin boy, suggesting he was a teenager or a young man. Despite his age, Lopeus had to participate in regular duties alongside the rest of the 12-14 member crew. According to 3rd mate Robert Haswell, Lopeus was cheerful, eager to help and well-liked by everyone aboard.
Photo by Rick Horn
In 1788, Lady Washington became the first American ship to make landfall on the Pacific coast. That August, the vessel reached Tillamook Bay, where they were greeted by members of a local Native village. The crew eagerly traded with the villagers on the beach.
Two days later, Lopeus was on shore cutting grass to feed the ship’s livestock. When he set down his cutlass, a Native man walked off with it. Lopeus chased after the man and grabbed him, which got the attention of the villagers. Several men surrounded Lopeus and stabbed him to death. Captain Gray’s crew quickly fled the beach and returned to their ship, firing their guns as they sailed away.
Today Markus Lopeus is remembered for his participation in the first American expedition to Oregon, and for being the first Black person to die in Oregon. His story demonstrates how Black people have been part of Oregon’s multiracial history from the earliest days.
Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. To learn more, and to support this nonprofit, visit oregonblackpioneers.org.
©Oregon Black Pioneers, 2025
Southwest Washington
Hannah Carter
Cascade Inn Assisted Living Community
11613 S.E. Seventh Street, Vancouver 360-619-2962
cascadedcr@koelschsenior.com cascadeinnwashington.com
Laura Venneri
Holt Homes
1301 S.E. Tech Center Drive, #150, Vancouver 360-892-0514
laura@holthomes.com www.holthomes.com
Heather Ashby CarePatrol, Senior Referral Services
7202 N.E. Highway 99, #106, Vancouver 360-907-9422
hashby@carepatrol.com www.carepatrol.com/Vancouver
Serving seniors and building community through meaningful relationships is a passion of mine. Cascade Inn, a family-owned senior independent and assisted living community since 1958, has allowed me to do those things by assisting families to find a forever home for their loved ones. Additionally, I serve on the S.W. Washington Walk to End Alzheimer’s planning committee and am involved with the Clark County Quilters Guild serving local veterans, hospice patients, foster children and nonprofits. It brings me joy meeting new people and showing them the home away from home that I have found at Cascade Inn.
As the HR Office Manager at Holt Homes, affectionately known as “The Benefits Guru” and “Problem Solver,” I thrive on supporting employees and management through every aspect of HR. People often ask, “How do you like HR?” or “You must have some great stories!” But for me, it’s about making a meaningful impact. With empathy and a natural ability for listening, I take pride in identifying and addressing root causes of problems within the company. Whether revamping benefits, developing policies, guiding employees through FMLA or resolving conflicts, my goal is always to create practical solutions. I’m happiest knowing I’ve helped someone overcome a challenge, find clarity or feel supported in their work journey.
As an owner, operator and Certified Senior Advisor for CarePatrol of Vancouver, it has been a rewarding experience to help seniors and families. I started helping seniors in 2004 and I started CarePatrol because of the needs of my dad. He was at the hospital and passed at my house with hospice. Many people are in crisis needing to leave the hospital or a Skilled Nursing Facility, and they don’t know where to go. We are a team and work closely with families and clients to serve their needs. We offer resources to help with advising on Senior Living, Veterans’ assistance with Aid & Attendance, in-home care and other services in our community.
Women in Business
Courtney Givens
Simple Pleasures Events
12400 N.E. 27th Court, Vancouver
360-909-5632
courtney@simplepleasuresevents.com www.simplepleasuresevents.com
Sherri Meck
Mortgage Express
203 S.E. Park Plaza Drive, #205, Vancouver Cell: 360-601-3474 • Direct: 360-213-2596
sherrim@mtgxps.com sherrim.mtgxps.com
Pam Marini
Pepsi
219 S. Timm Road, Ridgefield 360-903-7244
pamala.marini@pepsico.com www.pepsico.com
I founded Simple Pleasures Events over 20 years ago to make a difference in my community. A born multitasker and master of logistics, I oversee all projects and creative talent, meticulously tracking every detail in my color-coded notebooks — a system only my French Bulldog, Cooper, and I can truly decipher. With 25-plus years of experience, I’ve become a trusted partner to corporate and nonprofit clients, helping bring their visions to life. Viewing your event through the lens of a development director, I focus on donor engagement, cost reduction and unique fundraising opportunities. Last year alone, we helped clients raise $2.48 million, a testament to our commitment and impact.
I am a mortgage loan officer with Mortgage Express, a Pacific Northwest-based lender specializing in mortgage loans. With quick turnaround times and competitive rates, we ensure a smooth process while keeping borrowers informed. We offer a variety of lending programs to meet your home financing needs. The most rewarding part of my job is helping clients achieve their goals, whether it’s purchasing a home, refinancing, consolidating debt or pulling cash out for investments. I strive to make the process stress-free with top-tier customer service. Most of my business comes from repeat clients and referrals, and I take pride in being available seven days a week to guide them every step of the way.
Throughout my career, community support has been a cornerstone of my success, and I’m passionate about continuing to make a positive impact. Currently, at the local Ridgefield Pepsi location, I have the opportunity to bring my passion for community support to life. I work alongside a team of local experts who are dedicated to helping businesses grow and thrive. With a shared commitment to business prosperity, we focus on providing solutions and fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships within the community.
The Sound of Music (1965)
A perfect movie for springtime, this is an adventurous modern retelling of Beatrix Potter’s beloved classic, full of energy and sweet humor. The story follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit as he and his rabbit siblings wage a rivalry with Thomas McGregor for control of their country garden. With gorgeous animation, a charming English countryside, and a story full of slapstick comedy, the movie captures the air of renewal and adventure that defines spring. Unlike the original books, where old Farmer McGregor is the rabbits’ main adversary, this movie introduces Thomas McGregor, his great-nephew. A meticulous cityslicker from London, Thomas inherits his late uncle’s farm and initially wants to sell it — until he discovers Peter and his family invading the garden. What follows is a ridiculous rivalry between Thomas and the rabbits. The movie offers a surprisingly heartfelt journey about family, friendship, and learning from your mistakes. Starring James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, Margot Robbie, Daisy Ridley, and Elizabeth Debicki. Rated PG for some rude humor and action.
Few movies capture spring quite like The Sound of Music. The story follows Maria, a free-spirited postulant (woman training to be a nun), who is sent to be the governess for seven von Trapp children. Through music, kindness, and an unshakable zest for life, Maria breathes new life into the family — just as Austria faces the impending rise of the Nazi regime. The stunning outdoor cinematography, from the lush meadows to the blossoming romance between Maria and the Captain, makes the movie feel as fresh and invigorating as spring itself. And this is more than just a picturesque musical — as the von Trapps face difficult choices under Nazi occupation, their courage and devotion to each other creates a powerful message of hope and resilience. The movie somehow blends joy, romance, and suspense, making it an unforgettable experience. Starring Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Haydn, and Peggy Wood. Rated G, but please note themes of Nazi occupation, strict parenting, traditional gender roles, and religious life.
Spring Facts:
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Young love, springtime in high school, and prom. A loose, modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy “Taming of the Shrew,” 10 Things is an iconic ’90s teen rom-com. The story follows Kat, the “shrew” (a smart, independent, rebellious woman) and her sister Bianca. Bianca wants to date but can’t until Kat does. Cameron, a new student, falls in love with Bianca but she wants to date Joey, a rich bad boy. So Cameron schemes with his friend Michael: convince Joey to pay moody outcast Patrick Verona to date Kat, thus allowing Joey to date Bianca (and unofficially allowing Cameron to date Bianca eventually). Like most rom-coms, there’s a relationship reversal — Patrick really falls for Kat, Bianca realizes that Joey is a jerk and Cameron is actually great. However, Kat soon discovers the scheme and is heartbroken. But in true rom-com fashion, there’s a dramatic reconciliation where Kat confesses her feelings for Patrick as well as the 10 things she hates about him. Starring Julia Stiles, Larisa Oleynik, Joseph GordonLevitt, Heath Ledger, and more. Rated PG-13 for crude humor, brief strong language, and some sexual references.
* The Spring Equinox, usually around March 20th or 21st, marks the day when daytime and nighttime are nearly equal in length, signaling the official start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
* Spring is crucial for plant life because it’s the time when many plants break dormancy. As temperatures rise and days lengthen, plants begin to bloom and grow, using the energy from the sun to fuel their photosynthesis and bloom in vibrant colors.
* Many bird species migrate during the colder months and return in spring to breed. These birds follow seasonal patterns and rely on the availability of insects and plants that peak in spring to nourish themselves and raise their young.
Peter Rabbit (2018)
Pronto & Perfect Pronto & Perfect Pronto &
How a small-town snack became an American icon
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
WWWhen you think of classic fair food, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s cotton candy, funnel cakes, or caramel apples. For many Americans, the ultimate fair staple is the corn dog. And when it comes to corn dogs, one name stands out in the annals of fried food history: the Pronto Pup.
Rainy Start in Rockaway Beach
juicy hot dog encased in a crispy, fried shell was irresistible!
Birth of a Franchise
While you might think the Pronto Pup’s origins trace back to the bustling state fairs of Texas or Minnesota, it is the town of Rockaway on the Oregon Coast that claims the distinction. In the late 1930s George and Versa Boyington, a couple who operated a hot dog stand, found themselves at the mercy of Oregon’s notoriously wet weather. The rain would soak the buns, leaving them with soggy sandwiches and frustrated customers. Undeterred, George experimented with dipping hot dogs into a thick batter made from flour and frying them. The result? A crispy, golden, portable treat that was rain resistant — the perfect snack for the Pacific Northwest’s soggy unpredictable weather.
What’s in a Name?
The Boyingtons desired a name that conveyed both the speed and convenience of their new invention.
After a brainstorming session they landed on “Pronto Pup,” evoking the quickness of serving and eating
More than just inventors, the Boyingtons were also savvy entrepreneurs. Recognizing the potential of their invention, they franchised the Pronto Pup, selling the equipment and batter mix to aspiring vendors across the country. By the 1950s, Pronto Pups had become a staple at fairs, carnivals and drive-ins nationwide.
Corn Dog vs. Pronto Pup?
The difference resides in the batter. While corn dogs are typically made with a cornmeal-based batter, Pronto Pups use a flour-based batter. The result is the Pronto Pup has a lighter, more pancake-like texture, versus its cornbread-coated cousin.
Expanding Pronto Pup’s Reach
As fairs and festivals exploded in popularity throughout the mid-20th century, so too did the Pronto Pup. Its portability and affordability made it a perfect fit for the evolving American lifestyle. Drive-ins, a cultural hallmark of the
1950s, also embraced the Pronto Pup, offering it on their menus alongside burgers and shakes.
The Boyingtons continued to refine their business model, focusing on quality and consistency. Vendors were required to use the official Pronto Pup batter mix, ensuring that every Pronto Pup, whether sold in Oregon or Omaha, tasted just right. This commitment to quality also helped establish the Pronto Pup’s reputation as a consistent and delicious snack.
Science of the Perfect Pup
Regional Rivalries and Imitators
Of course, with success came competition. The Pronto Pup’s rise to fame spurred the creation of similar snacks across the country, most notably the corn dog. While many corn dog enthusiasts assert that the cornmeal batter adds a unique flavor, Pronto Pup loyalists insist that nothing beats the original flour-based recipe.
In Minnesota, the Pronto Pup’s popularity inspired fierce loyalty. At the Minnesota State Fair, an event that draws millions of visitors each year, Pronto Pups are sold at numerous stands and remain one of the fair’s most iconic treats. For many Minnesotans, the Pronto Pup isn’t just
What’s the Pronto Pup’s secret? What makes it so delicious? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The hot dog provides a savory, juicy center, while the batter delivers a crispy, slightly sweet coating. When fried to perfection, the Pronto Pup achieves a delectable contrast that’s difficult to resist. Temperature and timing are critical in the frying process. The oil needs to be hot enough to cook the batter quickly without overcooking the hot dog. Too low a temperature, and the batter becomes greasy; too high, and it burns. Experienced vendors know that achieving the perfect golden brown color demands practice and precision.
Pronto Pup in Pop Culture
American pop culture has embraced the Pronto Pup. It has been the star of food documentaries, fairground scenes in movies, even the occasional viral video. Rockaway Beach, the birthplace of the Pronto Pup, continues to honor its culinary legacy. Visitors to the town can stop by the original Pronto Pup stand, which operates to this day, and taste the Oregon classic that became a national favorite.
A Modern Take on a Classic
In recent years, food enthusiasts and vendors have begun customizing the Pronto Pup. Gourmet versions featuring artisan sausages, exotic spices, and unique dipping sauces have appeared at upscale food festivals and trendy
George and Versa Boyington
restaurants. However, even with these fancy variations, the core essence of the Pronto Pup — a simple, satisfying snack — remains the same.
Pronto
Pup Legacy
Today, the Pronto Pup is a cultural icon, particularly in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. In Rockaway Beach, the Boyingtons’ creation is celebrated annually at the Pronto Pup Festival. Beyond nostalgia, the Pronto Pup’s story is a testament to the spirit of innovation. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best ideas come in response to the simplest of problems — and thinking outside the (soggy) bun.
The next time you’re enjoying a Pronto Pup, or even a corn dog, remember the Boyingtons, Rockaway Beach and the crispy creation that started it all. Whether you prefer yours with ketchup, mustard, or both, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this quintessential American treat!
Opening Northwest Doors
Delivering courteous care for 30 years
By Justin Andress, Active Media
by Lisa Kuhlman, Active Media
Anyone fortunate enough to live in their own home understands the critical importance of a properly functioning garage door. It keeps your car sheltered from bad weather and plays a critical role in keeping your home safe from potential intruders. Fortunately for residents of the Portland Metro Area, the team at Ponderosa Garage Door works tirelessly with homeowners and business owners alike keep their garage doors in pristine condition.
In the grand scheme of the company’s thirty-year history, Anna Fielding is relatively new on the job at Ponderosa Garage Doors. Though she might be new to the Operations Department, Anna has been a part of Ponderosa’s legacy since it began. As part of the second generation to run Ponderosa Garage Doors, Anna is keen to get involved and promote the growth of her family’s company. “For me, it was an opportunity to invest in something that’s always been a big part of my life.”
Anna runs the office and acts as service dispatcher for Ponderosa, but she’s quick to give a lot of the credit for the company’s recent growth to her brother, Brock.
“Ponderosa Garage Doors started as a one-man show,” she says. “My dad, Ken, has had employees here and there over the years. Right before 2020, however, my brother Brock started working for the company. We joke that, at that point, it turned into a 25-year-old startup company, because that’s when a lot of growth started happening.”
Thanks to the influx of enthusiasm, Ponderosa Garage Doors has grown to support 18 employees who work throughout the extended Portland Metro area. However, growth hasn’t slowed down the company’s ability to focus on its customers’ needs.
“We provide pretty quick turnaround time,” explains Anna. “Typically, we can get out there, provide estimates and do the work all in the same day. So it’s often same day or next day service from start to finish.”
That commitment to quick, reliable service is only one aspect of what makes Ponderosa Garage Doors successful. Their secret to longevity is their commitment to their neighbors. As Anna says, “We have a really strong presence in the community. We love being a part of it. We’ve collaborated with several businesses, booster clubs, and sports teams. Our customers are the community, so we try to be a face in the community as well.”
Whether you need a quick repair or a full installation, the dedicated team at Ponderosa Garage Doors is ready to keep garage doors running smoothly.
Ponderosa Garage Doors is located at 12308 NE 56th St., Vancouver. Call,text or email customerservice@ ponderosagaragedoors.com. Visit ponderosagaragedoors. com for more information and special deals, or to book an appointment online anytime day or night!
Photos
California Poppy Day
National Tartan Day
New Beer’s Eve
Sorry Charlie Day
Int. Plant Appreciation Day
National Peach Cobbler Day
Scrabble Day
Palm Sunday
Chinese Language Day
Look Alike Day
Volunteer Recognition Day
Babe Ruth Day
Morse Code Day
Caramel Popcorn Day
International Beaver Day
National Beer Day
No Housework Day
Coffee Cake Day
World Health Day
Ex Spouse Day
Int. Moment of Laughter Day
Look up at the Sky Day
National Dolphin Day
National Pecan Day
1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 27 28 29 30
National Prime Rib Day
International Fun at Work Day International Tatting Day
Zoo Lover’s Day
National Library Workers day*
Int. Be Kind to Lawyers Day*
All is Ours Day
Draw a Picture of a Bird Day
Reach as High as You Can Day Income Taxes Due
International Astronomy Day
Eraser Day Take a Wild Guess Day Titanic Remembrance Day
Patriot’s day Dyngus Day* Kindergarten Day Earth Day (U.S.) Girl Scout Leader Day National Jelly Bean Day
Tell a Story Day Greenery Day
Great Poetry Reading Day Kiss Your Mate Day
* Denotes that the date changes each year
Dance Day National Shrimp Scampi Day National Zipper Day April Fool’s Day Atheist Day
National Walking Day*
Children’s Book Day
Butter and Jelly Day
Reconciliation Day
Name Yourself Day
Winston Churchill Day
Mushroom Day
Eggs Benedict Day
National Librarian Day
Stress Awareness Day
the Elephant Day
Lover’s Day
English Muffin Day
National Picnic Day
Zucchini Bread Day
Don’tGotoWorkUnlessit’sFunDay*
Find a Rainbow Day
Tweed Day
World Party Day
National Burrito Day
Golfer’s Day
National Farm Animals Day
National Siblings Day
Safety Pin Day
Bat Appreciation Day
Blah, Blah, Blah Day
Herbalist Day
International Haiku Poetry Day
National Cheeseball Day
National High Five Day*
National Walk to Work Day *
Hug a Newsman Day
School Librarian Day
Tell a Lie Day
Walk Around Things Day
World Rat Day
Barbershop Quartet Day
Eight Track Tape Day
National Pet Day
National Submarine Day
Good Friday*
International Juggler’s Day –also applies to multi-tasking office workers
Newspaper Columnists Day
Pet Owners’ Independence Day
Nat. Teach Children to Save Day * Arbor Day *
East Meets West Day
2 3 4 5 9 10 11 12 16 17 18 19 23 24 25 26
Deep Dish Pizza Day
Go for Broke Day
National Dandelion Day
Read a Road Map Day
Big Wind Day
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
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Bluegill Thrill
Easy fishing for parents and kids
By Lucas Holmgren, Active Media
Creating memories with kids is a heartwarming experience for parents. For a parent looking to take their children fishing, a smart place to start is fishing for bluegill, perch and crappie in local lakes and ponds.
In the Northwest, there is a surprising abundance of “panfish.” The most popular of this aptly named category of fish that are easily pan-fried is the bluegill. Bluegill can be found in virtually every lake and many smaller ponds in the Oregon and Washington area. Summer months are often the best chance for them, so if you go out in spring and don’t find any near the bank, just wait until it warms up more. They’re easy to see, and plenty of information exists online about which lakes they dwell in.
As a general rule, bluegill will usually be active when your local pond is 60 to 65°F. As the water temperature warms they can still be very active in the deepest months of summer, although they will often retreat to more shaded areas.
Once you’ve found bluegill in your local lake, float-fish
(bobber-fish) an earthworm on a small — size 12, 14 are ideal — hook. Using light fishing line, attach a small “Crappie Float” or even the classic red-and-white plastic bobbers, but make sure the float is small enough to be easily pulled under. Adding a split-shot under the float can help with casting and getting the hook down to depth faster. The simplest float and hook with a worm has accounted for millions of fish.
Unlike other species, bluegill don’t necessarily need the bait to be near the bottom, but I like to make sure it’s at least floating at about half of the total water depth. The rod and reel you use doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should not cause issues that take all the fun out of fishing. When bluegill are near the bank, even a long stick with fishing line tied to it can be used to catch fish, but ideally an ultra-light spinning rod with quality line on it will make things much easier.
Fishing near lily pads and logs can be perfect ambush points for these aggressive little fish. If you’re not getting bites, try adjusting the depth you are fishing or move to another area. Once you’ve found biting bluegill, you’re likely to find many more!
Before you take the kids out though, make sure the water and the weather are warm enough. If the bluegill are active and the weather is nice, pack the snacks and the tackle, and go fishing! Lucas Holmgren is the host of the Salmon Trout Steelheader Podcast and a musician.
