The Sweet History of Maple Syrup
By Robert Matsumura, For The Clipper Times
Each spring, as snow melts away and days grow longer, a time-honored tradition commences in the northeastern forests of North America. Maple syrup season, a period both laborious and sweet, is an enduring celebration of nature, history, and culinary delight.
THE ROOTS OF MAPLE SYRUP
Long before colonists arrived in North America from Europe, the indigenous peoples, particularly the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe, were the first to tap sugar maple trees for their sap. Legend has it that a hunter’s wife accidentally discovered the process of boiling sap into syrup after using tree sap instead of water for cooking venison. The sweet aroma and taste were a revelation. Over the years, indigenous communities developed
various techniques for collecting and processing sap, including the use of hollowed-out logs and hot stones for boiling. The sap’s nutritional value was also recognized as a vital energy source after long winters.
SAP TO SYRUP: A STICKY PROCESS
The transformation of sap into syrup is an art steeped in both tradition and science. As winter gives way to spring, sugar maple trees store starch in their roots. As the days warm and the nights cool, this starch converts to sugar, causing the sap to flow. February through April are typically the ideal months for the harvesting of sap. Harvesting sap involves tapping the trees by drilling small holes. Next, spouts are inserted to direct the liquid into buckets or tubing systems. A single tree yields 10 to 20 gallons of sap, but it takes approximately 40 gal -
See MAPLE MAGIC page 7
Maple Syrup in maple jar.
From Page 1
lons to produce just one gallon of syrup. The sap is boiled down in a sugarhouse where the water evaporates, leaving behind that golden, sticky sweetness we love to slather on waffles and pancakes!
A GLOBAL TREASURE WITH LOCAL ROOTS
Although the majority of maple syrup production derives from Cana -
da and the United States, this delicacy has won fans worldwide. Quebec alone accounts for roughly 70 percent of the world’s maple syrup, so it’s no surprise that the province treats it like liquid gold, even maintaining a “Strategic Maple Syrup Reserve” to stabilize prices and supplies. Over the years, maple syrup has evolved from a
beloved pancake topping to a versatile ingredient in gourmet cuisine, cocktails, and even skincare products. Not only is it a symbol of sustainability and seasonality, it is rooted in respect for the environment and the intricate relationship between people and the land.
SWEET TRADITIONS
Maple syrup season is also a period of community celebration. Across
maple-producing regions, sugar shacks (or “cabane à sucre” in French) welcome in the public, providing tours, tastings, and traditional meals featuring maple syrup-infused dishes. From syrup on snow to smoky maple bacon, these gatherings foster both camaraderie and an appreciation for culinary creations featuring maple syrup as the star.
A TASTE OF HISTORY
More more than just a harvest, maple syrup season is a living link to centuries of tradition. Every drop of syrup bears the essence of the forests, the ingenuity of indigenous peoples, and the labor of those who continue the
craft today. So the next time you drizzle maple syrup over your pancakes, savor the story behind the sweetness. It’s a flavor that connects us to the past, celebrates the present, and promises a delicious future.
Historic Photo of maple syrup harvesting.
Syrup harvesting containers.
MAPLE MAGIC
By Justin Andress
For The Clipper Times
When imagining an antique mall, most people picture a dimly lit room crammed with dusty bric-a-brac. Picasso’s Art and Antiques in Forest Grove is challenging that cliche by building a family-friendly gallery and antique mall accessible to all comers. Since last March, Casey Truman has owned Picasso’s Art and Antiques, and business is going well. The gallery
and antique mall has quickly become a welcome part of the community; it’s the realization of a family calling. When he was younger, Truman’s older brother, Lloyd, was an antiques fan. That enthusiasm was contagious, says Truman. “I got to follow my big brother around, you know, in and out of the antique malls and stuff when I was younger. I’ve always had a passion for it.”
As he makes good on
that long-time dream, Truman and his family have introduced a unique shopping experience to Forest Grove and the surrounding areas. Indeed, Truman takes pride in operating a “true family-owned store … at any given time, you can see my kids here.” Picasso’s Art and Antiques is a beautiful, welcoming space. At just under 4,000 square feet, the gallery and antique mall is home to a variety of treasures that are just
waiting to be discovered. Moreover, Truman has gone to great lengths to ensure that anyone in -
terested can sift through the offerings at Picasso’s. Indeed, the entire store is ADA Accessible. “I want to make sure that anybody that’s in a wheelchair can easily access all the booths,” says Truman.
Visitors to Picasso’s Art and Antiques will appreciate the easy access to all the goodies. The space is chock full of antique jewelry, vintage clothing, rugs, rocks, minerals, mid-century modern furniture, and, of course, a collection of work from the area’s most esteemed artists.
“We have gorgeous art from all over the world, and we have a lot of local artists on display as well,” says Truman. The gallery owner is committed to helping local artists find an audience.
Local artists consigning original art pay half the consignment fees of other vendors because Truman likes to support the art community in
any way he can. “I think a lot of artists are underpaid for their time.”
There are plenty of reasons to visit Picasso’s Art and Antiques beyond the great shopping. The gallery makes sure to provide plenty of reasons to stop by. They make efforts to get involved in community events, like Forest Grove’s Wine Walk, and they’re also in the process of organizing regular events that originate in the gallery.
“Forest Grove has always had a spot in my heart,” says Truman.
“I’ve always liked it.” That love for his community and his business shines through clearly. Whether you’re hunting for a unique treasure, admiring local art, or just soaking in the welcoming atmosphere, visiting Picasso’s Art and Antiques is sure to be a memorable experience.
Kicking It Old School
Oregon’s chillest recreational sport
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Few activities embody the laid-back, countercultural spirit of Oregon quite like Hacky Sack. Whether played in a park, on a college campus, or in a competitive setting, this simple yet engaging pastime has its roots here in the Pacific Northwest. Strongly associated with the 1980s and 1990s hippie and skate culture, Hacky Sack — technically known as “footbag”— has a fascinating history beyond simply being a hobby for barefoot enthusiasts in tiedye shirts.
ORIGINS: A GAME OF ANCIENT INSPIRATION
Keeping a small object aloft using only one’s feet has existed in various cultures for centuries. In ancient China soldiers played a game called “Jianzi,” which involved kicking a shuttlecock-like object while preventing it from touching the ground. Similar games have been found in North American indigenous traditions where small bean bags stitched from animal hides were used to develop agility and coordination. The modern iteration of Hacky Sack as
we know it today, however, began in the United States — right here in Oregon.
THE BIRTH OF THE HACKY SACK
The story of modern Hacky Sack began in Portland in 1972. Mike Marshall, an Oregonian with a passion for physical activity, came up with the idea of using a small, soft bag to improve foot dexterity and coordination. He introduced the concept to his friend John Stalberger, who at the time was recovering from a knee injury and needed a low-impact way to rehabilitate his leg. Together, the two friends refined the game, creating its structure and iconic name. Inspired by the nature of the activity — kicking a sack repeatedly without letting it fall — they dubbed it “Hacky Sack.” Marshall and Stalberger envisioned potential for their creation beyond mere rehabilitation, recognizing it as a fun and engaging sport that anyone could play. Unfortunately, Marshall passed away suddenly in 1975. Stalberger continued to champion their vision, eventually turning Hacky Sack into a worldwide phenomenon.
THE SPREAD OF FOOTBAG CULTURE
In the wake of Marshall’s passing, Stalberger patented the Hacky Sack and strove to expand its reach. In the 1980s he partnered with the Wham-O toy company, who had successfully developed and marketed American classics like the Frisbee and Hula Hoop. Wham-O’s marketing prowess helped popularize the game, and it wasn’t long before it was a staple in college quads, public parks and beach boardwalks across the nation.
The 1980s and early 1990s saw Hacky Sack become synonymous with the counterculture movement. Embraced by skaters, Deadheads, and alternative sports enthusiasts, it was valued for its cooperative nature and accessibility. Unlike many competitive sports, Hacky Sack emphasized teamwork, rhythm, and personal style, making it appealing to a broad range of players.
THE RISE OF COMPETITIVE FOOTBAG
While many people consider Hacky Sack a casual pastime, the game has evolved into a highly
skilled competitive sport known as footbag. The first-ever Footbag World Championships were held in 1983, launching a new era for the game. Freestyle footbag, in particular, showcased high skill tricks and complex combinations where players involved every part of their feet to keep the bag in motion while performing amazing acrobatic stunts. Along with freestyle footbag, footbag net became another popular variant. Played over a low net much like badminton or volleyball, footbag net demands agility, control, and strategic footwork. These new versions elevated the Hacky Sack beyond its original recreational image and helped it attain international recognition.
A
LASTING
LEGACY
Despite the waning of its popularity in the early 2000s, with the rise of video games and other digital entertainment, Hacky Sack remains an intrinsic part of Oregon’s cultural fabric. Portland and Eugene, in particular, have long been perennial strongholds for footbag enthusiasts. The University of Oregon’s campus has been a hotbed
of Hacky Sack activity for decades, with students often playing between classes.
Footbag events continue to be held in Oregon, highlighting both the casual and competitive sides of the sport. Top-tier footbag players continue to emerge from Oregon, participating in international competitions, while keeping the legacy of Marshall and Stalberger alive. For many Oregonians, Hacky Sack isn’t just a game — it represents community, creativity, and a laid-back way of life.
WHY HACKY SACK ENDURES
So, why has Hacky Sack endured despite shifting trends in sports and recreation? For one, it requires no special equipment — just a footbag and a group of willing participants. Also, it’s an inherently social activity, drawing people together to share in a collective goal. Where traditional sports rely on competition, Hacky Sack focuses on cooperation, making it a perfect fit for Oregon’s collaborative and outdoor-loving culture. Moreover, as people search for simple ways to
stay active and connect with others, Hacky Sack is making a comeback. As renewed interest in unplugged and non-digital forms of entertainment gain traction, this classic pastime is being rediscovered by younger generations who appreciate its low barrier to entry and creative potential.
THE SPIRIT OF HACKY SACK LIVES ON
From its humble origins in Portland to its rise as an international sport, Hacky Sack remains an enduring piece of Oregon’s cultural history. Whether you’re an experienced footbag player or just looking for a fun way to pass the time, there’s something timeless about the simple joy of keeping a small sack airborne with only your feet. So next time you’re hanging out in a park, a campus quad, or a music festival, don’t be surprised if you see a circle of players laughing, kicking, and keeping the spirit of Hacky Sack alive — one foot tap at a time!
Left: The original official Hack Sack brand footbag. “Hacky Sack” is the name of a brand of footbag popular in the 1970s (currently owned by Wham-O), which has since become a generic trademark. Right: John Stalberger’s intensity on show both during a match and practice.
Robin Ekloff Owner
TRIVIA
1. THE MAN BEHIND THE HOLIDAY:
St. Patrick wasn’t actually born in Ireland. Which country was he born in?
2. THE ORIGINAL COLOR
What was the original color associated with St. Patrick before green became the symbol of the holiday?
A. Blue
B. Red
C. Yellow
3. A PARADING TRADITION
The first-ever St. Patrick’s Day parade didn’t happen in Ireland. Which country hosted the first recorded parade in 1601?
4. A NATION’S HOLIDAY
Which country recognizes St. Patrick’s Day as an official public holiday?
A. United States
B. Canada
C. Ireland
5. A LUCKY SYMBOL
According to legend, St. Patrick used a shamrock to explain what religious concept?
6. GREEN RIVER MYSTERY
Which U.S. city is famous for dyeing its river green every year to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
7. A DRINKING TRADITION
On St. Patrick’s Day, approximately how many pints of Guinness are consumed worldwide?
A. 3 million
B. 7 million
C. 13 million
8. SNAKE MYTH
According to legend, St. Patrick is credited with driving what out of Ireland?
9. THE POT OF GOLD
According to folklore, where does a leprechaun hide its gold?
10. IRISH OR NOT?
Roughly what percentage of Americans claim Irish ancestry?
A. 5%
B. 10%
C. 20%
Solutions for Trivia Page 11
SUDOKU
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9. Each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9. Each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)
Solutions for Crossword and Sudoku Page 11
SUDOKU by Margie E. Burke
Building the Arsenal of Democracy
How wartime industry and innovation redefined the state
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
The verdant landscape of Oregon might not be the first place you think of when you think of World War II. But as Europe and the Pacific became engulfed in war, and the United States geared up to join the fray, Oregon transformed in ways that continue to shape its economy and identity today. From booming shipyards to bustling military bases, the war changed Oregon from a sleepy, resource-based frontier state into an industrial powerhouse with a modern, diversified economy.
BUILDING THE ARSENAL OF DEMOCRACY
When President Franklin D. Roosevelt called for an “Arsenal of Democracy,” Oregon was quick to respond. Strategically located on the Pacific Coast, Oregon was ideally situated to contribute to the war effort, and its natural resources and hardworking population proved
to be valuable assets. One of the most significant contributions came from the shipbuilding industry.
Henry Kaiser’s shipyards in Portland and Vancouver, Washington, were critical in the war effort. These yards churned out Liberty ships, tankers, and other vessels crucial for transporting troops and supplies to the front lines. At its peak, the Kaiser shipyards employed over 100,000 workers, not only from Oregon but from states across the nation. The shipyards were a showcase of efficiency and ingenuity. Kaiser implemented groundbreaking techniques that revolutionized shipbuilding, including modular construction, which drastically reduced production time.
At one point, the 10,500 ton Liberty ship, the SS Joseph N. Teal was constructed in a mere 10 days, setting a record that astounded the world. These wartime innovations helped not only to win the war, but also laid the foundation for Oregon’s post-war industrial economy. Many workers remained in the area after the war, and the skills they developed would become the backbone of industries ranging from manufacturing to technology.
AGRICULTURE
ON THE FRONT LINES
While Portland became a booming industrial hub, Oregon’s agricultural
heartland also mobilized for the war effort. Farmers shifted gears to produce food for the troops, growing vast quantities of wheat, potatoes, and other staples. The effort was fueled by government incentives to increase yields, and new technologies such as tractors and irrigation systems were embraced in the Willamette Valley and beyond.
The Bracero Program (1942-47), a U.S. government initiative to import Mexican laborers to work on farms, had a significant impact on Oregon agriculture. With many local men serving overseas, the Braceros filled labor shortages, helping Oregon to meet the demands of wartime production. This influx of workers also introduced new cultural influences to the state, planting the seeds for the diverse agricultural workforce of today.
MILITARY BASES: A SURGE OF ACTIVITY
In addition to industry and a boost in agriculture, World War II also brought an influx of military activity to Oregon. The state’s vast forests and proximity to the war in the Pacific made it an ideal location for training bases, airfields, and even defensive outposts.
Built in 1942, Camp Adair, located near Corvallis, became one of the largest training bases in the country. Hosting over 40,000 soldiers at its peak, Camp
Adair would actually have been the second largest city in Oregon at the time.
In Tillamook, the Naval Air Station played a critical role in anti-submarine patrols along the Pacific Coast. The station’s massive wooden hangars — still among the largest clearspan wooden structures in the world — are a testament to the state’s wartime contributions.
Fort Stevens, near Gearhart, even saw direct action during the war. In 1942, a Japanese submarine shelled the fort, marking one of the few attacks on the U.S. mainland during World War II. Though the attack caused little damage, it underscored Oregon’s strategic importance and heightened the sense of urgency among its citizens.
THE ROLE OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES
The war also created new opportunities for women and minorities in Oregon, rewriting traditional social norms and reshaping the state’s workforce. With so many men serving overseas, women assumed roles they had never occupied before.
Rosie the Riveter wasn’t just a national symbol; she was a reality in Oregon’s shipyards, factories, and offices. Similarly, many Black Americans migrated to Oregon, drawn by job opportunities in Portland’s shipyards and other wartime industries. The Black population in Portland grew from just 2,000 in 1940 to over 20,000 by 1945.
POST-WAR OREGON: A NEW ERA
In the aftermath of World War II, Oregon’s economy
didn’t return to its prewar patterns. Instead, the changes brought by the war continued to ripple through the state. Many of the workers who came to Oregon for wartime jobs chose to stay, fueling a population boom. Portland, in particular, grew from a regional trade hub into a modern city with a diverse economy. The industrial skills developed during the war found new applications in peacetime industries, from electronics to aviation.
As thousands of veterans returned from the war, the GI Bill helped them to buy homes, start businesses, and pursue higher education. Colleges and universities across the state saw a surge in enrollment, which in turn led to a more educated workforce that would drive economic growth for decades to come.
LEGACY OF THE WAR
Oregon’s economy still bears the imprint of World War II. The state’s reputation for innovation was evident in the wartime ingenuity of places like the Kaiser shipyards. Its diverse workforce reflects the social changes set in motion during the war years. And its thriving agricultural sector owes much to the technological advances and labor shifts of the 1940s. Physical remnants of the war also remain. The massive wooden hangars in Tillamook now house an aviation museum. Fort Stevens is a state park where visitors can explore the site of the 1942 shelling. And Portland’s industrial waterfront, once alive with wartime shipbuilding, now thrives as a center of commerce and culture.
As we reflect on this pivotal chapter in history, it’s clear that the legacy of World War II is not simply one of sacrifice and struggle, but also one of resilience, ingenuity, and growth. The Oregon we know today owes much to the people and events of those extraordinary years.
Launch of Star-of Oregon, l941. The First LIberty Ship produced at Kaiser Shipyards. Photo courtesy OHS.
Female workers of World War 2 industry.
Reel Movie Reviews
Women to Watch
By Donovan Darling, For The Clipper Times Barbie (2023)
“Because Barbie can be anything, women can be anything.”
Maybe the most impactful movie about women in the last decade, especially due to its metafiction and bluntness, Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” unapologetically addresses women’s issues and has a blast doing it. Full of clever humor, emotional depth, and social commentary galore, Barbie has an existential crisis and embarks on an adventure of self-discovery while battling the patriarchy in the real world and
back at home. Ken, meanwhile, reconciles his own identity and what it means to be a patriarchal man, diving deep into stereotypes and fur coats. It’s otherworldly and gorgeously designed, funny, tender, and an unflinching look at the issues women face today. Starring Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Will Ferrell, Simu Liu, Kate McKinnon, and more. Rated PG-13 for suggestive references and brief language.
The Color Purple (1989)
“Until you do right by me, everything you think about is going to crumble.”
Directed by Blitz Bazawule, the 2023 musical adaptation of The Color Purple follows a group of Black women in the early 20th century South. The story follows Celie, who transcends her oppression through self-empowerment, highlighting the importance of sisterhood, resilience, and the transformative power of love. This movie deals with Black women’s struggle against systemic racism and sexism, especially the importance of reclaiming your voice and identity. The relationships between the women, like Celie, Shug Avery, and Sofia, show how strength can
be found in solidarity and support. Starring Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, and more. Rated PG-13 for mature themes and violence — older teens and adults are recommended.
Little Women (2019)
“Women, they have minds, and they have souls, as well as just hearts. And they’ve got ambition, and they’ve got talent, as well as just beauty. I’m so sick of people saying that love is just all a woman is fit for. I’m so sick of it.”
The 2019 adaptation from Greta Gerwig of -
Solutions to St. Patrick’s Day Trivia, Crossword and Sudoku from Page 8
fers a fresh take on Louisa May Alcott’s classic 19th century novel. The movie explores themes of female independence, artistic aspirations, and what society expected of women at the time, especially marriage and financial security. The story follows the ups and downs of the March sisters — Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy — especially the tension between their dreams and social norms. Jo pursues a writing career, resisting traditional gender roles for her own autonomy and self-expression — women were expected to be homemakers, not artists or careerwomen. Starring Saoirse
Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Timothée Chalamet, Meryl Streep, and more. Rated PG for mature themes and brief smoking. International Women’s Day celebrates progress in gender equality while highlighting ongoing challenges and inspiring action. Originating in the early 20th century, it now features global events like marches and social media campaigns advocating for women’s rights. The holiday promotes empowerment, representation, and breaking biases, encouraging everyone to support women and foster a more inclusive society.
