“December being the last month of the year, cannot help but make us think of what is to come.” —Fennel Hudson
MOUNTAIN VENUES with MENUS
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“The Most Read Paper on the Mountain”
Vol. XXXI, No. 12 n A Free, Independent Newspaper n www.mountaintimesoregon.com
December 2023
n SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF MOUNT HOOD n
Welches, Brightwood, Wemme, Wildwood, Zigzag, Rhododendron, Government Camp, Sandy and Boring
30-Year Mountain Whistle Stop Gets New Conductor added. By Amber Ford Mystery Solved, The Mountain Times While Schmidt is eager and excited to After five years of Whistle Stop put on her chef’s hat as the new owner ownership, Marc and Debbie Accuardi PART 2 of the Whistle Stop, it is no surprise to are passing the Whistle Stop conduc-
Mountain Times Publisher Matt Nelson presenting the scrapbook to Matt Reid, .
By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
The century-old family scrapbook, stolen from a Rhododendron cabin in the mid-1990s, is back in the hands of the original owners’ descendants. The antique family treasure was returned last month to Matt Reid, the grandson of Wilbur P. and Evelyn Reid. Matt Reid has been poring over the time-weathered pages rediscovering his family’s history through old Oregonian newspaper clippings, birth and wedding announcements, and family photos. The book is a cornucopia of memorabilia missing for nearly three decades and thought lost forever. This is The Mystery Of The Family Scrapbook Part II in a two-part series. Part I of the series, which appeared in the November issue of The Mountain Times, chronicled the details of how the local newspaper acquired
tor’s seat over to longtime resident and service industry worker, Tekla Schmidt. Having served the Mt. Hood Villages locals and guests from all over, the Accuardi’s have chosen an exceptionally experienced and skilled captain to take over their establishment. Having been in the service industry profession for over twenty years, Schmidt is not only excited to have the opportunity to have her own little slice of the mountain, but to now officially call home one of her long-time favorite bars on the mountain. “I love the Whistle Stop for what it is,” Schmidt said. “A cozy, local watering hole with a great staff and great clientele,” Schmidt added. No stranger to the area, Schmidt has been a resident of the Mt. Hood Villages for over 17 years. Having worked at several popular locations throughout her time on Mt. Hood, Schmidt recognizes the value and importance of maintaining the legacy while also putting her own spin on the menu at the Whistle Stop. Crediting the Accuardis for elevating the food menu with Painted Hills beef and Grand Central breads, Schmidt plans to not only keep those items, but also expand the menu, bringing new
specials to the already upgraded items. “I do love to cook,” Schmidt said. “I have some of my own recipes up my sleeve that I’d really like to add to our daily specials, making the menu a little more diverse,” Schmidt added. Known for her famous pumpkin curry by her close friends and family, Schmidt is eager to get into the kitchen and experiment with different recipes and ideas. “If I’m interested in something new I’ll look up a handful of recipes for the same dish and just wing it,” Schmidt said. “This time of the year I’m all about soups and stews and have been known to make really good chicken white bean chili and a steak and black bean chili,” Schmidt
Christmas Toy Drive Dinner Reminder By Lion, Milt Fox
For The Mountain Times
see MYSTERY page 11
INDEX Mountain Profile�������������������������������������������������������2 Fire Focus............................................................... 6–7 Opinion.................................................................... 8–9 Wildcat Tracks ��������������������������������������������������������13 Museum Chatter ���������������������������������������������������14 The Woodsman ������������������������������������������������������15 Health................................................................27—29 The Viewfinder ������������������������������������������������������31 Crossword/Sudoku�����������������������������������������������34 Classified Ads ����������������������������������������������������������36 Transitions ����������������������������������������������������������������37
New owner Tekla Schmidt.
those that know her that she is just as excited to get behind the bar and create cocktail magic. Not only has Schmidt worked as a bartender for several years on Mt. Hood, she has also traveled to other ski towns for work and has years of experience with both the local clientele and those traveling to snowy destinations. “I love this mountain and this community. It’s no secret to us that live here in this paradise why people come to visit in droves,” Schmidt said. “Being a business owner just plants my roots here even deeper. It also means I’m not going anywhere anytime soon so I will have even more reason to get involved,” Schmidt added. As the mountain community continues to evolve and change, Schmidt taking over The Whistle Stop, as a long-time local, reminds patrons that no matter how many out of state plates settle over the long weekends and seasons, those with roots remain strong and steady. Having had the privilege of writing the article on her brother, Meshach Hottendor, and his chef’s exit from the mountain to Florida, it is with all of the best wishes and love I send Tekla on this most exciting adventure.
Courtesy of Mt. Hood Lion’s Club Facebook page
We hope you plan to attend this year’s Christmas Toy Drive Dinner which will be held Saturday, December 2nd. At the Mount Hood Lion’s Club, Happy Hour begins at 6:00pm, with dinner served at 7:00pm, price at the door is $20. Special pre-sale tickets are available for $18.00 at Welches Clackamas County Bank, Welches Mountain Building Supply, Coffee House 26, and the Whistle Stop Tavern, or ask any Lion. According to Lion Chef Craig Calvert we will enjoy
a meal consisting of Roast Top Sirloin of Beef, Ham and all the trimmings. This year’s Christmas Toy Drive is co- chaired by Lions Carol Norgard, Michelle Cassel, and Sarah O’Dowd. Please bring a new unwrapped toy for local kids and join us for this delicious dinner and help others in need. We will also be collecting nonperishable food items for the Hoodland Community Christmas Basket Program. Thank you for supporting this Mt. Hood Lions project, a community tradition since 1996.
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The Mountain Times — December 2023
Mountain Profile Deborah Roberts
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Place of Birth? Portland, Oregon How long on the Mountain? 13 years If you were not brought here as a child, what brought you to the Mountain? Falling in love with my husband Profession? C.N.A. Other professions? Years ago, in Boring, a bartender Favorite movie/and or musical? “A Bronx Tale” Favorite actress and actor? Robert De Niro Favorite TV show? “Married at First Sight” Favorite type of music? Rock & Roll Favorite hobbies? Listening to music If offered a dream vacation, where would you go, and why? New York. I have always wanted to visit Best lesson learned as a child? Before borrowing your parents’ car, always check the fuel gauge. You never want to have to call your parents to come and help. Defining moment in your life or your greatest accomplishment? Graduating from my C.N.A. class. A memorable dinner? Serving my parents a beautiful dinner. A funny moment from your life that you can share? I wasn’t paying attention, I entered the wrong car. When I thought I would be looking at my friend, instead I was looking at a man. I screamed and then he screamed, the man in the back seat was laughing hysterically. If you could invite anyone (past or present) to dinner, who would it be, and why? My parents, because I miss them terribly. Describe yourself in one word? Leo When you’re not reading The Mountain Times, what book/author/magazine/other do you read? National Enquirer If your life were made into a play or movie, what would the title be? “The Waltons” Pet peeve? Having my eggs made over medium. Bad habit you’d like to break? Being disorganized. Favorite quote? “You have to endure what you can’t change.” Favorite part of The Mountain Times? From start to finish.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
Local News
Oregon Trail School District Ranked No. 11 in State
By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
The Oregon Trail School District has earned a No. 11 ranking this year out of 206 Oregon K-12 districts and ESDs, according to School Digger. Among districts with enrollment of more than 3,000 students, Oregon Trail ranked in the top five for 2023. The new No. 11 ranking means the district improved by five spots over last year. The online platform SchoolDigger.com calculates school rankings based on test scores released by the Oregon Department of Education. These rankings were last updated on Sept. 22, 2023, and are based on the most recent
test scores available. Oregon Trail School District superintendent Aaron Bayer gave credit where credit is due in attributing the remarkable ranking. "The high ranking is the result of the hard work of our teachers, classified staff, administrators and families, who believe that all of these children are capable of achieving more than what others may have thought possible,” Bayer said. The district prides itself on the idea of providing an environment where all students can reach their potential. "School Digger's value stems from utilizing established metrics to generate its ranking system. Our efforts
of the last 13 years are rooted in the belief that all children will thrive here and they can improve their trajectory to put them on the path of a future they deserve,” Bayer said. Local investment and commitment to the community play a part in the Oregon Trail School District’s success. "Our success is a credit to the people that comprise the district: students, staff and the community. We believe people are attracted to the district for a myriad of reasons. Our focus is to serve the people who have made a commitment to this community and if our efforts attract more families with students, that is a testament to both the hard work of the district and the community at large." The School Digger website promotes itself as “your go-to source for Oregon school district rankings! Our userfriendly platform emphasizes test scores, offering clear, datadriven comparisons to help you navigate the educational landscape. Uncover the best-performing school districts in the Beaver State and make well-informed decisions for your child's future.”
Thank you for supporting your local paper!
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The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Tap & Belly Dancing Classes at MHCC
Tap and belly dancing classes
By MHCC
For The Mountain Times
Dance, as an art form, has the power to connect people from different backgrounds through movement. At Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC), students have the opportunity to bond with community members while learning tap and belly dancing. The heart of these community education dance classes is instructor Kim Miller. Miller, MHCC’s community education dance instructor, started her journey into the world of dance in an offbeat way. “I got into dance because I was terrible at sports, always the last one picked on the team, the one that ‘ruined the game for everybody,’” said Miller. She found her love for dance at the University of Iowa when she took classes to fulfill her physical education requirements. That’s when the magic happened.
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“When I was tap dancing, I can remember very, very clearly, it dawned on me: I am making music with my feet, and I can control it,” she shares. It was this moment that sparked Miller’s passion for tap dance. She went on to study its history and attend tap dance festivals to learn from the best. For belly dancing, Miller’s inspiration came from watching dancer Marie Wilkes, whose stage name is Maleeha. “I was totally mesmerized by her, and I wanted to learn how to move the way she was moving because it was just beautiful and mysterious,” Miller said. When teaching, Miller follows a structured approach, with warm-ups, drills, and choreography. For tap dance, the focus on technique helps students build a deep understanding of timing and musicality. In contrast, belly dance classes include core workouts and full-body movements. Miller’s classes cater to a range of students, from beginners to advanced dancers. In tap dance, there are separate classes for beginners and continuing students, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Belly dance classes also adjust for students with varying levels of experience. Miller strives to meet her students where they’re at so that everyone can learn and grow. Miller has witnessed many success stories among her students including one older woman who struggled with balance issues at first. Through Miller’s teaching, the student’s balance improved greatly over the course of three terms. In another instance, a student who had never belly
danced before fell so in love with it that she joined the Portland Bellydance Guild and ended up losing weight and having more energy as a result of the classes. Many students have had very positive remarks for Miller’s classes: “Kim is amazing. She’s so supportive and kind, as well as an amazing dancer. I really enjoy her classes and her as a person. She’s so patient.” “Kim is an excellent teacher. She is so upbeat and makes learning fun.” For those thinking about joining one of these dance classes, Miller’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Try it. You might discover something that enriches your life on multiple levels.” Check out all of MHCC’s community education classes online at https://learn.mhcc. edu/modules/.
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December 2023 — The Mountain Times
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Local News
Alpine Paradise
Mt. Hood Skibowl, Oregon’s First Ski Resort
By Robert Matsumura The Mountain Times
If you were asked which Oregon ski resort is the oldest, what would you guess? Mount Hood Meadows? Timberline? Mt. Bachelor? Depending on your historical knowledge of skiing in the state of Oregon, you might be surprised to learn that the oldest ski venue currently operating in Oregon is Skibowl. In the 1920s, skiing really took off in Oregon, and where it first exploded in popularity was on the south side of Government Camp where Everett Sickler developed the famous Jump Hill on Multorpor Mountain in 1928. In case you didn’t know, Skibowl’s name came from the shape of its Upper Bowl, while the name Multorpor is derived
from a combination of the first letters in Multnomah, Oregon, and Portland. Shortly thereafter, the newly-formed Cascade Ski Club began hosting competitions on Jump Hill which drew national attention when a National Ski Association event was held there. Despite the fact that thousands of spectators attended the event, interest in ski jumping waned as people quickly realized it was more enjoyable to ski the mountain themselves than to simply observe others competing at alpine sports. This public interest in skiing served as the impetus for the development of Skibowl, Timberline and later Mt. Hood Meadows. In 1935, work commenced on the Historic Warming Hut situated on the shelf between Lower and Upper Bowl at
Skibowl. Constructed by the Forest Service, it was a haven for skiers where they could warm up beside hot stoves and refresh themselves with coffee, soft drinks and snacks. The hut was strategically located where it would best serve recreationists after a careful study of wind conditions and snowfall patterns. While the original intent was to build the hut entirely from stone, a shortage of stone masons necessitated a switch to wood for the primary building material. Upon completion in 1937, the hut featured a large fireplace with a built-in stove on each side accompanied by a wooden counter where drinks were served. The hut also housed the lower station of the first rope tow installed at Skibowl. Although the warming hut was closed in 1964, it reopened again in 1987 after a remodel by owner Kirk Hanna, and it is still keeping skiers warm and refreshed to this day. Also in 1937, around the time of the construction of the Historic Warming Hut, the first rope tow was installed at Skibowl by French Boyd. The tow was powered by an automobile engine and transported skiers up the runs at a rapid pace. Riders held onto the tow with custom designed
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The Mountain Times — December 2023
Fire Focus
A New Door Opens For Young Firefighter By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
When he was in high school, Nate Forrar was a star basketball player. The four-year varsity letterman was on track to follow his dream to play college basketball. But his hopes got sidelined by a serious injury when he herniated two discs in his lower back, and he was forced to rethink his future. The 2023 Sam Barlow graduate decided to join a different kind of team and enrolled in the Hoodland Fire District Student Program. Now he enjoys the same team camaraderie he felt on the basketball court as he does working with fellow firefighters. Forrar gets to stay active pulling regular shifts while he studies to earn his firefighter I and II certifications. He has been getting hands-on experience in the student program for more than five months and expects to graduate by mid-December. He is also training to become an emergency medical technician. “I was going to play basketball in college but ran into issues with injuries,” Forrar said. “That door closed, this
one opened. I think everything happens for a purpose. I’m here and I’m going to take advantage of every moment. I love it here and I’m not complaining at all.” It didn’t take long for him to be thrown into the fire in Hoodland. On just his third day on the job, Forrar went on a call for a structure fire. Little did he know when he woke up that morning that he’d be fighting his first house fire. After all, the great majority of calls are medical emergencies or car crashes. “It was quite cool,” Forrar said. “Third day on the job I get a call for a fully involved structure fire. I got to see how that played out. That was really exciting to see an actual fire for the first time.” He’s also gone on a couple of trauma calls and vehicle wrecks that really opened his eyes and showed him what being part of a first-responder team is all about. “They were a bummer but exciting to see how firefighters care for other people, what our job really is,” he said. Forrar grew up in a large family with three brothers and a sister in the Damascus area.
Nate Forrar
In many ways the Hoodland Fire District is like a family, sort of a home away from home. “I love coming to work every day,” Forrar said. “I love the guys.They’re very fun to be around. I like the intensity. You don’t know what’s going to happen on each call. You’ve got to be prepared for anything. Sitting down at night having dinner and hanging out with everyone is something I look forward to every week.” On nights off, Forrar still plays 5-on-5 basketball for fun in an adult recreation league. He also likes to work out on his own to stay fit.
Hoodland Fire Levy Wins Five More Years By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
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Voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal of the Hoodland Fire District’s fiveyear local operating levy in the Nov. 7 special election. Measure #3-603 passed with 82.3 percent voting yes to 17.7 percent voting no. That is, 1,191 yes votes to 256 no votes. As of Nov. 9, the Clackamas County Clerk’s Office reported that 1,447 total voters cast ballots in the mail-in election. Final certification of the voting results is expected by Dec. 4. “We’re just thankful and gratified for the support of the community,” Hoodland Fire Chief Jim Price said. “I think it’s an indication that the
community is generally happy with the fire district. We’d just like to continue providing quality service.” Passage of the measure means renewing the local option tax at the same rate established in 2019, for another 5 years. It does not increase the total assessment tax rates currently imposed on property in the district, and the revenue earned will continue to be used to maintain current levels of service. A levy was approved in 2019 which asked for $0.25 per $1000 of assessed value on real property located within the district. For the past five years, that levy has provided roughly 10 percent of the district’s operating revenue,
which is about $300,000 a year. The renewed levy will provide funding that will maintain the district’s current level of service, Price said. The levy allows them to employ seven full-time firefighters/ paramedics for around-theclock service. While that is a manageable number, they still have to rely heavily on their volunteer program. Hoodland Fire District #74 is the primary provider of fire suppression, rescue and emergency medical first response to the Hoodland community, which includes 45 square miles from Cherryville to Government Camp along the Highway 26 corridor. In 2022 alone, the district responded to 1,128 emergency calls.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
Fire Focus
Hoodland FD’s Tips and Advice to Keep Safe During the Winter
Even though the wildfire season is over and winter is imminent, the threat of fire remains — home-heating fires. And winter also brings risks when people are out, including challenging conditions on local roads and Hwy. 26. “As locals we have a front row seat to the dangers of living in a bustling tourist and ski community,” noted Hoodland Community Emergency Response Team member Sally Chester. Tips for the Home • Purchase and/or stock up on non-perishable foods, two gallons of water per day per person, extra batteries, flashlights and an emergency radio. • Change batteries in smoke/ carbon monoxide alarms and keep fire extinguishers easily accessible. • Keep children and pets, and all flammable items at least 3-feet away from heaters, pellet stoves, wood stoves and fireplaces. • Turn off/extinguish alternate heat sources, blow out candles when leaving the room or going to bed. Never leave alternate heat sources unattended. • Wrap pipes and spigots, leave cabinet doors open for heat circulation when tempera-
ture drops to 26 F, and drip taps during power outages. Never use the stove/oven as a heat source, never use a BBQ, hibachi, etc., without proper ventilation and never inside or near a heat source. • Test portable generators prior to use; add fuel only when the generator is off. • Have your furnace and chimney inspected. • Have an escape plan, and practice using it monthly. Tips for Your Vehicle • Have a go-kit with emergency radio, blanket, coat, boots, gloves, hat, water, non-perishable food, whistle, cell phone charger, flashlight, extra batteries, blanket and tarp. • Keep kitty litter or sand and a small shovel to help with traction. • Keep fuel level at 3/4, check tire tread and carry and know how to use tire chains. • Check the antifreeze level and carry an ice scraper. • Check the heating/defrost system, battery, lights (hazard, head and tail) and wipers for proper functioning. • To prevent ice from forming on windows, mix three parts white vinegar with one part water together in a spray
bottle, spray windows before a forecasted ice/snow event. • To remove formed ice from windows, mix two-parts 70 percent alcohol with one part water together in a spray bottle and spray directly to windows, door locks, etc. Tips for Yourself • Keep a go-kit, include extra medications, clothing, important papers with policy and contact numbers, spare glasses and special dietary needs. • Consider mobility issues and special needs. • Know the difference between frostbite and hypothermia. If someone’s body temperature is below 95 F, get medical attention immediately. • Dress in layers and always protect hands, head and feet. • Remember to include your pets in all of your emergency preparedness plans. Call 503-622-3256 Option 1 in the Hoodland Fire District before burning yard debris. Sign up for Clackamas County Public Alert Notifications by using this QR code.
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VIEW FROM THE MOUNTAIN
The Mountain Times — December 2023
From the publisher’s desk
LETTERS POLICY Letters to the Editor & Commentaries must be typed and include the sender’s name, town and phone number for verification purposes. Commentaries must not exceed 600 words. We reserve the right to edit for grammar, clarity and length. We have the right to refuse content we deem inappropriate for any reason, without consent. SEND SUBMISSIONS TO The Mountain Times PO Box 1031 Welches, Oregon 97067 OR EMAIL TO matt@mountaintimesoregon.com. Subscription Rates $24 per year by regular mail, $45 for two years. Send payment to: PO Box 1031, Welches, OR 97067.
Karin Hoffman’s acrylic painting of Mount Hood.
While December is certainly a time for celebrating and gathering, it is also a period of reflection, a look back on all that has transpired over the last 12 months. This year has been an exceptionally busy one for me and my staff. In all of my 23 years of owning my publishing company, Active Media, I had never taken on the task of producing a community newspaper. To say it has been a humbling learning experience is an understatement, and yet, it has been extremely rewarding. Meeting so many new people on the mountain and getting to know so many hard-working business owners has been absolutely wonderful, not to mention dining at some fantastic restaurants in the area. I must say, this community is definitely spoiled with really great food and service. I’d like to thank my staff for their hard work, helping to put this paper out each month. I’d also like to thank all of our advertisers who help make this paper possible. Without your support, The Mountain Times would cease to exist. Last but not least, I’d like to thank you, the readers, for helping make The Mountain Times the most-read paper on the mountain. The fact that in 2023 — smack dab in the middle of the digital revolution
— this little old-fashioned newspaper just keeps going and going and going. Its continued success is a testament to the community passion that folks up here all share. The warm welcome you have given this newcomer has truly shown real mountain hospitality. From all of the staff here at The Mountain Times, we would like to wish you a safe and fun holiday season. We are excited about what 2024 can bring. Thank you for supporting The Mountain Times.
Display Advertising The Mountain Times rate card is available to advertisers by contacting the office at 503-622-3289 or matt@mountaintimesoregon.com. The MT offers full-service, in-house graphic design to its advertisers. Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in the paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent office policy or position of the Mountain Times or its clients. Copyright All material in The Mountain Times is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced or distributed in any form without written permission from the Publisher.
Sincerely, PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Matthew Nelson matt@mountaintimesoregon.com
Matthew Nelson Publisher, The Mountain Times. If you have an idea for a story, have a classified, transition or an event you would like to have published, or if you own a business and would like to advertise with us, please give us a call at 503-622-3289.
CONTENT MANAGER Donovan Darling
BILLING
Tara Weidman tara@activemediausa.com
STAFF WRITERS
Amber Ford, Tyler Francke, Lucas Holmgren, Ty Tilden, Ty Walker
AD DESIGN & LAYOUT
Morgan King morgan@activemediausa.com
AMBASSADOR Peggy Wallace
CIRCULATION MANAGER Tom Tarrants
PUBLICATION SUPPORT Avis Earls
CONTRIBUTORS
Bradford Bixby, Dr. Melanie Brown DC, Milt Fox, Robert Kelly DMD, Regina Lythgoe, Lloyd Musser, Gary Randall, Steve Wilent PO Box 1031, Welches, OR 97067 503.622.3289 www.mountaintimesoregon.com The Mountain Times is an independent monthly newspaper serving Sandy, Brightwood, Wemme, Welches, Zigzag, Rhododendron, Wildwood, Government Camp and Boring. 8,500-plus copies printed and distributed monthly. Printed at Eagle Web Press in Salem, Oregon. The Mountain Times is an associate member of ONPA
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
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Opinion
Inside Salem
Legislator’s Letter: An Update from Rep. Jeff Helfrich
Mountain Representative Jeff Helfrich keeps the community updated with an exclusive look at the legislative process.
I get to wear many hats as a legislator. Chief among them is the privilege to advocate for the people of my district and to bring their voice to Salem when it comes time to engage in debate on the most pressing issues facing our state. I get to help my constituents when there are grievances or misunderstandings with state agencies. I also get to go out and see our communities. In my last column, I hope I was able to address the concerns about
my new role as caucus leader. Whatever role I may take on in Salem does not change my responsibility to my constituency in HD-52. I still have all my legislator hats to wear, namely the responsibility to pass good legislation and to balance the state budget. That last piece, while seeming rather innocuous, is one of the most important roles we have as legislators: to balance the budget. It isn’t the flashiest part of the job, but the conversations had on
the Joint Ways and Means Committee and Subcommittees are vital to ensuring that all Oregonian’s hard-earned dollars are spent prudently. A major contributor to where those conversations lead is the quarterly “Revenue Forecasts’’ produced by the Department of Administrative Services. They provide the Legislature and the public with an in-depth look at where the Office of Economic Analysis believes the economy is headed here
in the state. On November 15th, the committee released its final report for the year. It showed a steady and stable growth in our state’s economy despite some troubling metrics, specifically in population growth and migration. We are headed into a very busy legislative short session in which we will continue to look for solutions around the crisis that is homelessness in our state, the rampant abuse of Ballot Measure 110, and its failure to deliver what
U.S. SENATOR / Jeff Merkley (D) District: 0S2 - United States Senate 313 Hart Senate Off. Bldg Washington, DC 20510 202.224.3753 (tel) 202.228.3997 (fax) http://merkley.senate.gov Portland Office: 121 SW Salmon #1400 Portland, OR 97204 503.326.3386 (tel)/503.326.2900(fax)
STATE SENATOR Daniel Bonham (R) / District: 026 900 Court Street NE, S-316 Salem, OR 97301 503.986.1726 (tel) Sen.DanielBonham @oregonlegislature.gov http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/ bonham
SECRETARY OF STATE LaVonne Griffin-Valade 136 State Capitol Salem, OR 97310 503.986.1500 (tel) oregon.sos@state.or.us https://sos.oregon.gov
was promised in the way of recovery. We will have the opportunity to have these conversations knowing that our economy is stabilizing, though still keenly aware that too many face affordability challenges. We will also have to face the truth that decisions made by our legislative body have created an environment in which Oregonians would rather leave than stay in our state, leading to the first decline in population in over 40 years. Our revenue forecast may look good for now, but without significant changes this legislative session to better the lives of everyday Oregonians, I worry we may be pushing away our ability to have a stable financial future. So, I leave you with this: where would you focus and invest first to make Oregon a place where families want to stay, not just visit? As always, you can reach me at Rep.JeffHelfrich@ oregonlegislature.gov or 503-986-1452. My office and I would love to hear your thoughts on what should be prioritized in a stable economic setting, or if you would like access to the reports mentioned above.
WHERE TO WRITE PRESIDENT / Joseph Biden (D) The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave Washington DC 20500 202.456.1111 (comments) 202.456.1414 (info/switchboard) www.whitehouse.gov/contact GOVERNOR / Tina Kotek (D) State Capitol Building 900 Court Street NE, Ste 160 Salem, OR 97301 503.378.4582 (msg line) 503.378.6827 (fax) http://governor.oregon.gov U.S. SENATOR / Ron Wyden (D) District: 0S1 - United States Senate 223 Dirksen Senate Off. Bldg Washington, DC 20510 202.224.5244 (tel) 202.228.2717 (fax) http://wyden.senate.gov Portland Office: 911 NE 11th Ave, #630 Portland, OR 97232 503.326.7525
US REPRESENTATIVE Earl Blumenauer (D) / District: 003 U.S. House of Representatives 1111 Longsworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 202.225.4811 (tel)/202.225.8941 (fax) http://blumenauer.house.gov STATE REPRESENTATIVE Jeff Helfrich (R) District: 052 900 Court Street NE, H-473 Salem, OR 97301 503.986.1452 (tel) rep.JeffHelfrich @oregonlegislature.gov
ATTORNEY GENERAL Ellen Rosenblum Oregon Dept of Justice 1162 Court Street NE Salem, OR 97301 503.378.4400 (tel) www.doj.state.or.us STATE TREASURER Tobias Read (D) 350 Winter St. NE #100 Salem, OR 97301 503.378.4329 (tel) Oregon.Treasurer@state.or.us
CLACKAMAS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Tootie Smith (Chair) Commissioners: Ben West Paul Savas Martha Schrader Mark Shull (e-mail: bcc@co.clackmas.or.us) 2051 Kaen Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045 503.655.8581 (tel) 503.742.5919 (fax)
COUNTY SHERIFF Angela Brandenburg 2223 Kaen Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045 Emergency No. 9-1-1 Non-Emergency to Report a Crime 503.655-8211 503.655.8549 (fax) CITY OF SANDY City Manager, Jordan Wheeler Mayor Stan P. Pulliam Councilors: Chris Mayton Laurie J. Smallwood (President) Richard Sheldon Kathleen Walker Carl Exner Don Hokanson 39250 Pioneer Blvd., Sandy, OR 97055 503.668.5533 (tel) ci.sandy.or.us
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The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Experience Mt. Hood and The Gorge Hosts Tourism Partner Meeting in Rhody
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Mt. Hood Territory, Hood River, West Columbia River Gorge, and The Dalles form the Mt. Hood and Columbia River Gorge Regional Tourism Alliance. At a November meeting in Rhododendron, the alliance unveiled its new branding logo and shorter name, “Experience Mt. Hood and The Gorge,” to attendees from the alliance regions, including those communities that comprise Mt. Hood Territory: Mt. Hood and Villages of Mt. Hood, Government Camp, Estacada, Sandy, and Boring. Lizzie Keenan, Experience Mt. Hood and The Gorge, Regional Lead, introduced an agenda that included a resident survey on tourism, Placer. ai visitor tracking, industry scholarships, and funding for local projects by nonprofits and associations. Travel, tourism and destination marketers, businesses, lodging, transportation and tour operators, neighborhood associations and nonprofits filled the room at Alpine Events. Jake Jorgenson, COO of RRC Associates, presented his company's resident survey data. The survey was mailed to a sampling of the total resident population in each region
selected by the algorithm and reached out to targeted residents by social media. Answering the question,” How long have you lived here?” fifty-four percent stated they had lived in the area for over 20 years, living in their home yearround. Answers in a section about the quality of life were “most interesting,” Jake added, “Thirty-six percent answered that their quality of life was declining, while thirty-nine percent responded that it was staying the same.” Responding to the multiple choice survey answer format, when asked what is essential to their quality of life, the number one answer was safety and security, followed by scenic beauty and environmental quality. One question asked about the most significant impacts or challenges affecting the residents. The “check all that apply” answer options included Short Term Rentals (STRs). A follow-up question asked which was the most critical issue to address by officials, and again, STRs were an answer option. According to Jake, an openended question about tourism and its effects drew some interesting comments from residents. “Inflation was the foremost challenge, followed by a lack of housing, especially in the Hood River Valley and The
Dalles. Impacts from climate change had a surprisingly high ranking.” View survey results here: https://www.hood-gorge. com/research-and-reports. To promote what Experience Mt. Hood and The Gorge call “destination stewardship,” all the data will be available, including the new Placer.ai Community Reports (using phone ping tracking), to local regions. Data could help each region decide what is best for them. For example, Lizzie asked, “What if a region wants to promote shoulder season to increase tourism in their area, but it could be a double-edged sword?” In some areas, fifty percent of residents responding to the survey said they had to modify their behavior because of increased tourism. Some residents no longer visit Mirror Lake, Multnomah Falls, or Timberline Lodge. This finding provided a segue for Lizzie to introduce the Infinity Loop Map, which promotes less-visited regional attractions instead of well-known locations, lakes, waterfalls, or environmentally sensitive areas, to reduce overcrowding. For info on the Infinity Loop Map, tourism data and survey, Strategic Investment Fund, Tastebound culinary tourism project, industry scholarships, 2023/2025 Regional Plan, and partner opportunities, visit www.hood-gorge.com.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
Local News
The Gift of Massage Relieves Holiday Stress By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
“Everybody deserves a massage,” and the Carson Bodywork slogan rings true, especially during the busy holiday season. You’re in a rush, stressing out, running around Christmas shopping. It’s a mad dash for just the right gift. Your old injuries are acting up. Your bad back is killing you. You’re worn down mentally and physically. You need a break. You need to relax. You need to chill. So does everybody else. If that describes you or someone you know, maybe massage therapy is what you need for Christmas. Gift certificates from a local massage therapist make perfect stocking stuffers. Two therapists with studios on the mountain come to mind: Kristi Carson of Carson Bodywork and Karen Hangsterfer of Karen Hangsterfer Massage Studio. Both practices are in Welches. “I love making people feel better in their bodies,” Carson said. “I do a deep tissue massage with kind of a spa flair. I call it therapeutic pampering,
where I really bring in nice deep pressure that’s not necessarily painful but alleviates pain and has a nice relaxing feel to it.” A licensed therapist for over 13 years, Carson also trained in traditional Thai massage in Thailand. Her services include massage, facials, skin care and sugaring, a form of natural hair removal similar to waxing. Hangsterfer has run her own massage studio for 32 years at the same location, just north of the Welches Post Office. She has built a large clientele mainly by word of mouth. She sees a strong connection between the body and mind. Massage relieves tension buildup in muscles and relaxes the mind. “I’m a body geek,” Hangsterfer said. “I love all the things about the body. I really think massage is helpful because the tension in our bodies is always building. The body and the mind directly affect each other. Body and mind are not separate organisms. “Massage flushes the stagnation from muscle tissue, your tendons and your organs. Massage flushes the stagnation from that, which in turn opens
up channels. They are invisible channels that allow our breath and energy to flow unimpeded. “So we can receive life on life’s terms, and integrate things more easily. Things don’t seem so overwhelming. When you get a full body massage, all your internal systems get addressed at the same time. That results in a deep state of relaxation.” Massage therapy is good for pain management and can improve your overall mental and physical health. It increases your range of motion, improves your sleep and addresses overall wellness. It reduces muscle tension, stress, anxiety and depression. It improves circulation, skin tone and mental alertness. Karen Hangsterfer Massage Studio is located at 24403 E Welches Road in Welches. Phone 503-6224388 or 503-380-1158; email hangsterferkaren@gmail.com. Carson Bodywork, located at 68296 US Highway 26 in Welches, is by appointment only. Phone 503-453-6248 or email carsonbodywork@gmail. com.
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12
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Meet the Artist: Keely Mitchell By Amber Ford
The Mountain Times
Photo credit Keely Mitchell.
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Using her creativity and imagination as the brush and the Mt. Hood National Forest as her canvas, local artist and Mt. Hood Villages resident Keely Mitchell is creating artistic magic. Finding her passion for art at a very young age, Mitchell began utilizing nature for the tools needed to create art. “I began painting as a little kid,” Mitchell said. “I’d use dirt, blueberries from my parents’ garden, rose petals, anything I could get my hands on,” Mitchell added. Focusing mainly on creating art with pottery and oil paint, Mitchell sees value and freedom in both art forms. “Pottery really feels like magic,” Mitchell said. “Taking a lump of dirt and shaping it into almost anything you can imagine gives the greatest of wizard vibes,” Mitchell added. Oil painting has also been a passion of Mitchell’s and having on hand her art supplies helps her create pieces that inspire creativ-
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ity and vision. “Oil painting feels like you’re reading a good book,” Mitchell said. “You may take a break from it for a day or two, but when you finally find your way back to it, the paints are still ready to be morphed into a story you don’t yet know,” Mitchell added. While Mitchell mainly keeps to her pottery and oil paintings, she has also dabbled in photography and clothing design. “I’ve played around with clothing design and film photography and really loved it, but I think my love for creating things otherworldly pulled me away,” Mitchell said. Crediting her dad and the late, great Bob Ross, Mitchell’s art and creativity has been shaped by the work and stories of others. “When I was little I’d watch his [Ross] show and when I started going to school, I remember my dad taping them on the VHS for me so I could watch the whole episode when I got home,” Mitchell said. “Bob would just set a scene so easily and would encourage anyone and
everyone that they could do it, too – that really got me going,” Mitchell added. While Ross may have been the inspiration needed to jumpstart her passion for art, Mitchell also credits Salvador Dali and his extreme use of imagination. “Salvador Dali really captured my attention in my youth with art that makes you really think, and that’s kind of what I aspire to do,” Mitchell said. While there are people and places who inspire Mitchell’s work, living on the mountain is of huge benefit to her and her art when she begins a piece. “I’m constantly surrounded by the forests and hills that I’ve incorporated into my pieces for years and years,” Mitchell said. “Being here and getting more time to get a closer look at all the small things really gets the creative juices flowing,” Mitchell added. For more information on where to purchase Mitchell’s work visit emeraldpineart. etsy.com.
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December 2023 — The Mountain Times
13
NOV 2023 HONOR ROLL
STUDENTS OF MERIT Brooklyn Grandy, 3rd grade
Erin MacInnis, 4th grade
Kylie Sliwka, 3rd grade
Isaac Burgess (turkey art) & Alidalyn MacDonald (grateful writing), 1st grade
WELCHES ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL
TOP ROW (l to r) Ella Lampkin, 6th grade | Gage Smith, 6th Grade Vivian Eaton, 7th Grade | Donovan Caruso, 8th Grade MIDDLE ROW (l to r) Markus Dunlap, 5th Grade Gideon Kaiser, 5th Grade | Kylie Sliwka, 3rd Grade Sydney Mullin, 5th Grade | Andie Sheehan, 4th Grade Valeria Cruz Martinez, 2nd Grade | Maria Cruz Martinez, 4th Grade BOTTOM ROW (l to r) Zahvia Freeman, Kindergarten Levi Chavez Gallardo, Kindergarten | Ivan Gallardo Ruiz, Kindergarten Cedar McCaslin, 1st Grade Sponsored by Marti Bowne, Broker, Merit Properties Group
Juniper Hufford, 1st grade
Welches Parent-Teacher Corner By Cassie Kanable For The Mountain Times
Hello, Welches Families! The WPTCO is a non-profit that serves & supports the students of the Welches Schools and the greater Welches community. To keep up to date on events, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities, make sure to join our new email list at http://bit.ly/ wptcolist or scan the QR Code at the end of this story. November was a wonderful month of fundraising & getting into the holiday spirit! Welches students kicked off the annual Canned Food Drive, enjoyed a wonderful fall break, and even fit in a couple wonderful field trips. As we wrap up 2023, there’s so much to look forward to in December! Here are some
upcoming community events: 12/1 Welches PTCO Movie Night is back! Join us for a screening of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” on Friday Dec. 1st in the Welches Elementary Multipurpose Room. In true TMNT fashion, we’ll have pizza available for purchase at concessions! Doors Open at 5:00 PM (come early & enjoy some pizza!), and the movie starts at 6:00 PM. Bring chairs, floor pillows or blankets. $1 per person, concessions available for purchase. ALL CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT. 12/2 WPTCO Wreath Fundraiser: Join us for our final wreath sale Saturday Dec. 2nd at Welches Mountain Building Supply from 10:00
AM-2:00 PM! We’ll have complimentary coffee & cocoa with the purchase of a wreath. Handcrafted wreaths provided by Booth Farms located in Boring, OR. For details visit bit.ly/WPTCOwreaths.
Mt. Hood Lions Club Friday Dec. 15th from 4:00-8:00 PM and Saturday Dec. 16th from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM. An adult must show ID at time of pick-up. Excess food boxes will be given to our local food pantries for their use.
12/5 Last Day to Sign Up for Hoodland Community Holiday Basket Program: Need some support this holiday season? Sign up for a food basket & gifts for your children, 18 & under! Sign-up sheets are now available at Smoke on the Mountain, Hoodland CCB, Welches Liquor Store, Coffee House 26, Welches School, Hoodland Fire, Hoodland Library and Mountain Building Supply. All forms are due by Tuesday, Dec. 5th at 2:00 PM. Baskets will be ready for pick up at the
12/7 Middle School Band Concert: Join the Welches Middle School Band for their winter concert on Thursday, Dec. 7th at 7pm in the elementary multipurpose room. 12/8 Last Day for Canned Food Drive: Welches Schools are hosting a canned food drive benefiting the Hoodland Community Christmas Baskets Program. Donations can be dropped at the elementary school office through Friday, Dec. 8th. Items needed include boxed dinners,
cereal, canned vegetables, fruits, rice, dried beans, chili, tuna, peanut butter and soups with an expiration date past January 2024. Plus, look for more information on Welches Ski & Snowboard Nights at Timberline in January & February! Visit https://bit.ly/snow2024 for details. If you have any questions or you’d like to make a donation to the WPTCO, reach out to us at info@welchesptco.org.
14
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Museum Chatter: The ‘Cool’ Collection of the Ski Museum
Matchbooks are a rare item these days. The Museum Collection has advertising matchbooks from many Mount Hood businesses.
By Lloyd Musser
For The Mountain Times
Last month the subject of this column was the Museum’s historical objects collection. We described the photographs, books, and paper archives in the collection. The largest part of the Museum’s Collection is the three-dimensional items that have a historical significance to Mount Hood history. The pieces described in the following paragraphs are just a sample of the items in the collection. Deciding which ones to include in a list is sort of like a child in a candy store trying to select a few items. It is nearly an impossible task. A wooden Curd Knife is likely the oldest item in
the collection. This hand carved wooden butcher knife shaped tool was used in the cheese making process. It was made around 1840 and came to Oregon in 1860 over the Oregon Trail and Barlow Road by immigrants. Another Barlow Road related item is a 24 inch horseshoe. This item was found many years ago, along the historic road where it likely was discarded by an immigrant to lighten his wagon before descending the treacherous Laurel Hill. It is an advertising symbol for a blacksmith. The Museum has been recognized as a Ski Museum by the International Skiing History Association – therefore we have many snow skis and related equipment. The oldest skis in the collection were made locally about 1912. They are made of cedar with a leather toe strap and are 9 feet long. Walter Creighton, a Rhododendron homesteader, made them to hunt cougar on snow. Several skis in the collection have Saf-ski bindings. These bindings are the world’s first releasable binding, and were invented by Hjalmer Hvam, a Mount Hood champion ski jumper and
racer. One set of skis with the Saf-ski binding are US Army issued to the 10th Mountain Division in 1940. Saf-ski bindings, however, were not US Army issue. The Saf-ski bindings were purchased privately by a soldier and installed at his expense. The collection includes many snow skiing -related items that could be referred to as accessories. One such accessory of dubious value are the Ankloons. Ankloons are inflatable tubes worn on your ankles to get a tight fit in ski boots. This 1960’s product was not a big seller. Ski clothing is a major part of the museum’s collection. Sweaters and skiing have always been a natural association, and we have a large collection of sweaters made by White Stag and Jantzen of Portland that are popular worldwide. The chairs of Mount Hood are an interesting collection of chairs unique to the area. This collection includes: a prototype dining room chair made by the WPA carpenters while building Timberline Lodge, a dining table and chairs manufactured by the Barlow Trail Furniture Co. of Rhododendron, a child’s
rocking chair made by homesteader Walter Creighton, a chair from the gone-but-notforgottenS wiss Chalet and a wood reclining chair made locally from plans in a magazine in the 1940s. Historic signs with local significance are very popular with Museum visitors. The Mt. Hood National Forest had a sign shop at Zigzag Ranger Station during the CCC era (1935–45) that handcrafted carved wooden signs for the entire Forest. These signs were functional as well as works of art. The larger signs included a carved scene related to the physical site of the sign. The signs were designed and made under the direction of Larry Espinosa, an artist and the sign shop foreman. The Museum Collection also includes natural history objects such as wildlife taxidermy and geology specimens. Lucy the black bear and Bucky Beaver are mounted taxidermy specimens that are popular with visitors. Most of the objects listed are on display in museum exhibits. We hope this short introduction will inspire you to visit the
The very first ski binding designed to release a skier’s foot before breaking a leg bone when a skier fell down.
Museum. Anytime is a good time, but the holiday school break is a very good time to visit the Museum. Entry to the Museum is free but donations are accepted. The Museum will be open every day in December except Christmas Day. Come see us at the Museum soon. Lloyd Musser is the volunteer curator at the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum. The Museum is located at 88900 E. US 26, Government Camp, Oregon. Open everyday, 9-5 p.m. www.mthoodmuseum. org ph. 503-272-3301
Stephen Helwig Joins Teaching Staff at Sandy High
Sandy High’s Stephen Helwig
By Ty Tilden
The Mountain Times
Stephen Helwig’s journey to Oregon took several unexpected turns before he found his true calling in the classroom at Sandy High School. A decade ago, the Arizona native set foot in Oregon, he and his wife seeking a change of pace after residing in the same small town for years.
After moving to Portland and weathering a job loss right before the pandemic hit, Stephen found himself reevaluating his life’s direction, especially as he welcomed his first child in 2020. This significant moment prompted a pivotal decision: to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a history teacher. In 2022, he graduated with a Bachelors in History from Eastern Oregon University, swiftly advancing to earn a Masters of Arts in Teaching the following year. His motivation to teach wasn’t a sudden choice but a long-standing aspiration, rooted in his passion for history and the joy of imparting knowledge. “When I graduated high school, I wanted to be a history teacher. I took a couple different detours in my life with every job I had; my favorite part of those jobs was training or teaching or passing
on information,” he said. Helwig found his way to Sandy through a stroke of serendipity; he studenttaught at David Douglas, where he formed connections that recommended him to SHS principal Sarah Dorn. The alignment of timing and fit with the school led him to this picturesque town. “I was lucky enough to find a place that I really wanted to explore. We’ve always lived on the eastside of Portland and [the Mount Hood area] has lovely outdoors and camping and fishing and obviously you go through Sandy so often to get up to Hood. So having an opportunity to come here and experience Sandy life and contribute to the community is something I’m really excited about,” he said. As he settled into his role at Sandy, Stephen discovered a deep satisfaction in working with the students. It wasn’t
until he began teaching that he realized the true extent of his enjoyment in mentoring and observing student growth and development. He particularly values the relationships he builds with his students. “I’m a firm believer that you don’t actually know whether or not you’re going to like something until you do it. I thought I enjoyed working with kids but I wasn’t sure until I started student teaching and it’s the same here. I just really like working with kids and seeing them grow. The kids in all my classes are super awesome,” Helwig said. But Helwig’s commitment doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Eager to revolutionize his role in education, he’s pursuing a second master’s degree, this one in history. His goal is to teach dual enrollment courses, believing them to be a more fair and accurate measure of
academic prowess than the AP system that offers college credits reliant on a single test. In his own words, Helwig sees himself as a fairly ordinary individual, now engrossed in parenting his two children and deeply committed to furthering his career in education. His ardor for empowering students through a progressive approach to academic recognition is a testament to his dedication to making an impact in the classroom and the community. Stephen Helwig may describe himself as “boring,” but his transformative journey from a sudden job loss to a passionate educator underscores the fervor with which he has ingrained himself in his career and his teaching style. SHS is fortunate to have him.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
15
Environment
The Woodsman: All I Want for Christmas Is a Cozy Fire
By Steve Wilent For The Mountain Times
What do you get for a woodsman who has everything? Well, almost anything. For the past umpteen Christmases I’ve sent Santa a letter saying that I’ve been (fairly) good this year and to please bring me a new Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup truck. Either I haven’t been good enough or F-250s don’t fit in Santa’s sleigh. That, and I bet even Santa can’t afford a $75,000 truck. So what do I want that’s reasonable? Nothing: nothing but this – a fire in the woodstove on Christmas eve, with a night log added before going to bed, a cozy fire on Christmas morning, and family and friends to share the warmth. I have fond memories of cozy fires in Christmases past, and Thanksgivings, too. As a child my parents, my brother and I would make the hourlong drive to my mother’s parents house for one or both of the holidays. My mom and grandma would make the
traditional roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and the best gravy in the world. And peas, always steamed peas. And my grandmother’s pumpkin pies and sometimes mincemeat or raisin pies. After dinner, my grandfather would tend the fire, which had been smoldering in the stone fireplace all day. He’d add a bit of dry, pitchy Douglas-fir to the oak logs to start building a bed of hot coals for the night log, a big chunk of oak that would burn slowly until morning. Later, our teeth brushed and pjs on, my brother John and I would get our last hugs of the day before settling into our twin beds in the narrow chilly bedroom, which had once been a screened-in porch, just off of the living room. Covered in flannel sheets and hand-made quilts, John and I would listen to the low murmuring of the adults and the crackling and hissing of the fire, watching the flickering firelight dance on the walls and ceiling, before falling asleep. And in the morning, Grandpa, who had been up and about long before John and me, had the fire blazing again. These days, I have a fire in my woodstove just about 24/7 from early November to late March, except for the days when I clean the chimney, which then safely satisfies our need for wood heat. As I cut firewood each summer, I split logs into pieces of various sizes:
Don’t have a woodstove or fireplace? You can find videos of crackling flames on the Internet, such as this one, which claims to be live 24/7.
from small for kindling to large for night logs. A night log might weigh 20 to 30 pounds, depending on the species. Lodgepole pine and red alder make fine night logs, and if I don’t have those, I’ll use Douglas-fir, Western red cedar, or Oregon white oak, if I can get it. My woodstove can hold a log 12 inches wide, 10 inches tall, and 18 inches long. When placed on a bed of glowing coals with the air vents closed, such logs are usually still burning 10 or 12 hours later, ready to be kindled into a fire for the day. Yes, burning night logs adds creosote to the chimney. To me, cleaning the chimney often — three or four times a year — is worth it. So is having my own chimney brushes. You can borrow chimney brushes from
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the Hoodland Fire District for free — can’t beat that price. If you don’t want to clean your own chimney, call a professional chimney sweep. Do it even if you’re not sure your chimney needs cleaning. Once ignited, a heavy creosote buildup can ruin your chimney and even start your house on fire. So, a cozy fire is all I want for Christmas. That’s not much to ask for, but in these crazy times, it’s a necessity. It’s hard to forget what’s going on in
our nation and the world, but on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, sharing that fire and forgetting all that for a while is a welcome respite, a tonic. And the best part is that there’s no need for the excuse of a holiday to have it. Have a question about firewood and burning it? What’s the ideal gift for your woodsman, woodswoman, or woodsperson? Let me know. Email: SWilent@gmail.com.
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The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Clackamas County Winter Fair Open for the Holiday Season
By Kelly Romo
The Mountain Times
Are you ready for a magical winter wonderland experience? The Clackamas County Winter Fair & Holiday Market is right around the corner, and it promises to be a spectacular event that you won't forget! The fair features over thirty local crafters and vendors showcasing gifts for every member of your family, as well as a dazzling display of over 200,000 lights, a reindeer barn, and, of course, Santa & Mrs. Clause. Kick-start your evening by immersing yourself in a delightful shopping spree with over thirty local vendors. From Scentsy reps presenting a symphony of aromatic fragrances, mineral and gem vendors showcasing nature's treasures, crafters with their
unique creations, to an array of captivating glass nightlights and exquisite jewelry — there will be something for everyone! To top it off, Willamette Valley Lavender and Gonz Whit The Bees honey farm will add a sweet touch to the mix. When you step outside, get ready for an electrifying spectacle as you immerse yourself in the magic of over 200,000 twinkling lights in a half-mile journey through an enchanting winter landscape. Prepare to be dazzled by the main attractions: an astonishing 166-foot tunnel glittering with lights, a spectacular 200-foot building transformed into a luminous display, and, to top it off, a mesmerizing Christmas tree show that will truly leave you in awe!
Don't forget to indulge in some delicious food and beverage offerings while you’re there! "Gimme Some Sugar" is ready to tantalize your taste buds with an array of tempting sweet treats balanced by some satisfying savory bites. But that's not all — "Oh Sweet Java" is stationed outside, and they are stepping up to satisfy your cravings for a hot beverage on a chilly winter evening. Imagine sipping on freshly brewed coffee, a sweet mug of hot apple cider, or a rich cup of hot chocolate as you marvel at the lights around you. As you continue your journey, you'll come across the reindeer barn. This is the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with Santa's trusty companions. Don't forget to snap some pictures and maybe even pet the reindeer. You'll also find lots of snowflakes and moving light displays. It's a feast for the eyes and perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. This year, Santa and Mrs. Clause have moved upstairs to ensure they stay nice and warm. You and your family can head up there for some memorable holiday photos. You will also find kid-friendly vendors there. The festivities are perfect for the whole family, and you will undoubtedly feel the warmth of the holiday spirit enveloping you. But what would a holiday event be without music? Visitors can expect live music from local schools inside and holiday music outside while enjoying the light displays. The live music will elevate the experience and make it even more special.
So, there you have it, folks; the Clackamas County Winter Fair & Holiday Market is a spectacular seasonal event perfect for the entire family. With over local crafters and vendors on display, this fair offers a one-stop shop for all your gifts this holiday season. The fair's incredible light display, unique vendors, delectable food, and charming Santa's cottage will bring you that perfect dose of holiday magic. Come spread cheer, make memories, and join the holiday festivities. Don't miss out
on this memorable event that will warm your heart during the winter season. See you there! The winter fair will be every Friday and Saturday in December from 5-9 p.m. General admission is $10. Children twelve and younger are $5, and children three and under are free. And trust us, it's worth every penny. The Clackamas County Fairgrounds and Events Center is located at 694 NE 4th Ave. in Canby. For more information or tickets, visit clackamascountyfair.com.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
17
Local News
From Football to Fever Pitch
Aaron Menchaca on first base. Photo credit: The Pioneer Press.
By Ty Tilden The Mountain Times
Hailing from Sandy, Aaron Menchaca’s sports journey began at a young age. His prowess in football as an offensive guard and defensive tackle, combined with his versatility in baseball as a first baseman, designated hitter and occasional third baseman showcases a skill set that extends across the sports spectrum. Starting football in the third grade and swinging a baseball bat since the age of four, Menchaca’s initiation into these sports was influenced by both community and familial ties. Football became a natural fit, thanks to his size and a nudge from a friend, Cole Rotzien, who saw potential in him. On the other hand, baseball found its place in his heart through familial bonds, with relatives involved in the sport. “I was bigger, and they also needed me because lots of the kids were just tiny and weren’t really like a lineman per se. So then, Cole just
influenced me, [he] kept telling me that I’d be great at it,” Menchaca said, recalling his entry into football. “And then [Cole Rotzien] said, ‘Just come play, have a good time with us.’ So, I’m like, ‘Alright, stop nagging. I’ll go play.’ And I’ve been playing ever since.” Aaron’s dedication to sports is evident in his daily routine. Whether it’s the grind of football workouts or the meticulous practice sessions for baseball, he embraces the challenges with enthusiasm. “I enjoy it. It’s fun to just challenge yourself and try to see what you can do better and improve on. What I learned from football and baseball is to just suck it up and work through it,” he said. Menchaca infuses his everyday life with athleticism and dedication to his sport. “It’s working out five to six times a week, and on the weekends – including speed training and then also yoga to get flexible primarily. Every day [I’m] going after school to hit and throw and get into
baseball shape. But honestly I haven’t stopped hitting since last season. You can’t really lose that,” he said. As he looks ahead to his athletic future, Menchaca sets his sights on playing baseball in college. Currently eyeing Linn-Benton Community College in Corvallis, a feeder school to Oregon State University, he aims to make his mark in the collegiate sports arena. While Menchaca’s athletic pursuits dominate a significant portion of his life, he maintains a balance, allocating time to family and academics. “I’d say a big portion of it goes to baseball, at least 40%. Family is prioritized at 40%, and then the other 20%, hopefully, [is] school, just cramming that in. But yeah, I focus mainly on sports right now,” he said. Looking forward to the upcoming baseball season, Menchaca aspires to being named conference player of the year and contributing to a successful playoff run for his team. With an unwavering commitment to his craft,
Aaron Menchaca exemplifies
athlete with big dreams in
the spirit of a double-threat
baseball.
18
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Sandy’s Winterfest Shines Bigger and Brighter By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
Come bask in the glow of Winterfest lights all holiday season long in Sandy’s Meinig Park. The second annual festive event promises bigger and brighter things this year, shining nightly from Dec. 1 through Jan. 2, with special events planned throughout December. It all gets started with the Christmas tree lighting ceremony from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1. Join the jolly gathering around the tree in Centennial Plaza. Standing 40 feet tall, the tree is 15 feet taller than last year. Everyone is invited to visit with Santa, eat cookies, drink cocoa and listen to carolers from Sandy High School perform. Watch as the lights illuminate the tree at Meinig Park.
“We see no reason why Sandy cannot be the premier go-to place for people in the Portland metro area, especially the side communities, to come and visit, shop, dine and enjoy the holidays here in Sandy as they go up and down Mount Hood.” Sandy Mayor Stan Pulliam said. “Obviously, for our local neighbors here in Sandy, it’s an incredible opportunity for them as well.” Pulliam’s daughter, Lucy, deserves the credit for the origin of Winterfest. The idea of lighting up Meinig Park for the holidays came to her five years ago at age seven. She was walking through the park with her family and she thought how neat it would be if it were decorated with Christmas lights. She introduced her idea in front of the
Sandy City Council and a few years later, in 2022, Winterfest was born. This year, the lights will stay on from 4 to 9 p.m. every night for the whole family to enjoy. Special free community events are scheduled throughout Winterfest as well. Get your family and pet pictures taken with the Grinch from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Visit the animals at the petting zoo and enjoy holiday treats. Listen to holiday readings from the Snow Queen 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. Hear music from the Sandy High School Band and Choir, and create a holiday craft. Bring your Christmas stockings and take a stroll through downtown Sandy from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15. Stop at participating busi-
Safe Winter Driving on The Mountain By Amber Ford
The Mountain Times
As Mt. Hood continues to grow its snow base and winter sports resorts such as Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows prepare to kick off their season, motorists are urged to use more caution this year than in previous years. In just the last month, several serious accidents have occurred on the Mt. Hood Corridor, resulting in at least two fatalities. According to Oregon Department of Transportation Public Information Officer, Don Hamilton, sensible winter weather driving is of the utmost importance with regard to safety concerns, especially at the higher elevations. “During ski season with the potential for bad winter weather conditions, road safety is the most significant reason for concern,” Hamilton said. “Highway 26 is a very busy route because it gives access to the many ski resorts, but also because it’s the gateway from the Willamette Valley to Central Oregon,” Hamilton added. While ODOT contin-
ues to do work year round to improve highway conditions and prepare for winter weather, budget issues could pose serious impacts to motorists in winter seasons to come. According to Hamilton, as costs continue to rise with regard to the equipment needed to keep major roads clean, the gas tax (which is the main source from which ODOT pulls their funds) is expected to decrease. “We [ODOT] do not receive funds from the Oregon income tax,” Hamilton said. “Our funding has come from the gas tax for the last century and while it’s pretty level at the moment we are expecting a shift in that as our costs continue to increase,” Hamilton added. Winter weather driving through the Mt. Hood Corridor has become such a hot topic for both locals and those traveling to the resorts that longtime Mt. Hood Villages resident, Conlan Joy, has created the ever-so popular Instagram account, “The Govy 500,” to showcase not only shared images of motorists in strange and comical situations, but to provide followers with ODOT updates and travel conditions. The
Govy 500 was founded in 2020 and has spread throughout many other social media platforms with its humor and driving advisories. Referring to their viewers and motorists as “racers,” The Govy 500 is also now advertised by Migration Brewing in the form of an IPA. “Content for the page is mainly focused on traffic updates with a sense of humor, road delays, live action from the raceway including accidents, stalled cars/semis, and road closures to keep racers informed about any delays on the course,” Joy said. With winter break just around the corner, both Hamilton and Joy advise all motorists visiting Mt. Hood to remain vigilant in preparation for winter weather driving. Both suggest purchasing winter tires, keeping an emergency kit in your car and constantly checking road and weather conditions on your route. For more information on the Govy 500, visit their Instagram page (@the_govy500) or their website www.govy500. com and for road conditions visit tripcheck.com
nesses to fill your stocking with treats. Come see beautiful holiday performances by Estampa Mexicana from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16. Visit and take your picture with Santa. Drop off your letters. All aboard! Jump on The Jolly Trolley and go for a ride through some of Sandy’s best decorated neighborhoods and parks from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18. Meeting place to be determined. Go on a scavenger hunt through the decorated Meinig Park from 6 to 7:30 Saturday, Dec. 21. Make stops at all of the City of Sandy’s civic departments. Enjoy drinks, food, and the last of the lights. This is a 21-and-over event from 6 to 7:30 Saturday, Dec. 28. Winners of the Merry
Makeover Challenge will be announced. Winterfest schedule • Tree Lighting: Friday, Dec. 1 • Pet Pictures with the Grinch: Saturday, Dec. 2 • Evening with the Snow Queen: Saturday, Dec. 9 • Stocking Stroll through downtown Sandy: Friday, Dec. 15 • Estampa y Santa: Saturday, Dec. 16 • Jolly Trolley Ride: Monday, Dec. 18 • Shortest Day Walkway: Thursday, Dec. 21 • Holiday Happy Hour: Thursday, Dec. 28 For more information on the special events, go to the City Of Sandy website at www.ci.sandy.or.us.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
19
Local News Ski Bowl From Page 5
hooks, and for those intrepid enough to carry a gallon of gasoline to the top, the skiing was free. One year later on nearby Multorpor Mountain, Raymond Hughes constructed another rope tow. Hughes’ tow was powered by a Dodge truck engine and operated on the run that is today known as Raceway on Cascade Chair. The charge per ride was five cents, or one dollar for the entire day. The first Lower Bowl chair, constructed with wooden towers, was installed in 1946 by “Sandy” Sandberg, and ran from today’s rental shop up the west side of Skibowl’s Lower Bowl. In 1949, George Beutler, the operator of Multorpor’s rope tow at the time, led construction of Multorpor Lodge, which in 1961 benefited from an A-frame addition to the structure. Also in 1961, Multorpor Mountain
Mystery From Page 1
the curious 11-by-16-inch dark gray book after its theft, and tracked down its rightful owners. Current Mountain Times publisher Matt Nelson presented the scrapbook to Matt Reid last month at the newspaper’s headquarters. Reid could not have imagined a more welcome surprise than receiving this collection of articles marking family milestones over the years. Reid thought it was going to be just an album of family photos, but he found it to be so much more. It was his grandmother Evelyn Reid’s personal scrapbook containing mementos of family history through news articles dating as far back as the 1840s, and through the 1970s. Although the items follow other names and branches of the family, the Reid name is predominant throughout the 30 oversized pages rich with genealogical history. “It follows grandmother’s
Company installed the Multorpor Chair, the fastest and most advanced high-capacity chair at the time. It was in 1964 that Skibowl and Multorpor, which had previously been separately owned resorts, joined together under the ownership of Carl Reynolds and Everett Darr, and emerged as Multorpor Inc. Many devotees of night skiing will immediately associate Skibowl with this unique activity. It was in 1966 that Skibowl’s world famous night lighting was first installed, and generations of skiers have enjoyed carving through powder beneath the stars ever since. According to Ski Magazine, “Skibowl offers the most night skiing terrain in North America.” Not only does Skibowl offer the largest amount of acreage for night skiing, it also provides the premier night skiing experience, offering not a single chairlift for the activity — like many facilities — but three separate chairlifts providing 36 lit runs for skiers to enjoy. For
those who prefer the mountain with fewer skiers to contend with while at the same time experiencing the magic glow of illuminated snow at night — a surreal, almost dreamlike sensation — night skiing at Skibowl is just the ticket! In 1980, Skibowl expanded beyond winter skiing to include summertime recreation as well with the installation of the Alpine Slide. The only dual alpine slide in the Pacific Northwest, this adrenaline-charged attraction sends the rider down a halfmile track of twists and turns through beautiful alpine mead-
family,” Reid said. “It’s really got a lot of meat in it. I’m going to learn a lot from it. It’s a personal scrapbook. I think it was my grandmother’s, Evelyn Hitchcock. I’m trying to figure it out. It’s pretty deep.” To say that Reid is happy to have the scrapbook back in the family’s hands is an understatement. “It’s super good to have it back,” Reid said. “There’s so much lost history – all the newspaper articles, the memorabilia of all the weddings of all the kids and their kids. It’s really complete and really delicate. I have to figure out how to make it less delicate so people can enjoy it. It’s very fragile. It’s 100 years old.” Reid still owns and spends time in the Rhododendron cabin from which the scrapbook was stolen. In fact, he said seven generations have spent time there. He has installed a security system since the burglary. He said burglars also stole family photographs off the walls, hoping to sell the ornate
picture frames to antique dealers. Reid’s grandfather, Wilbur P. Reid, the son of a prosperous lumber baron, built the cabin in 1910 as a summer retreat. It would take a Model A Ford two hours to drive from their historic Portland bungalow to their cabin in the foothills of Mount Hood. Reid plans to share the scrapbook with his daughter, Chelsey (Reid) Ryskalczk, and members of other branches of the family. “There’s a bunch of families,” Reid said. “They’re all my relatives. Over 100 years, they’ve all been robbed, I’m sure.” Right now, he’s catching up with a few family members, reading all about the Reid family heritage. “It’s pretty neat for something to show up after so long,” Reid said. “I’m halfway through it now. It’s really amazing. It’s in the hands of the rightful family.”
ows, before depositing them back to the base at Skibowl West. Two side-by-side tracks allow friends and family to race down the hill alongside each other for a truly memorable experience. Despite all the enhancements to Skibowl, the business struggled to stay profitable and during the mid-1980s fell into bankruptcy. In 1987, Kirk Hanna purchased Skibowl out of bankruptcy and founded the H-Ski Corporation. Under Hanna’s ownership, Skibowl added numerous attractions including Indy Karts, Mountain Biking, and Miniature Golf. In addition, an Adventure Park was developed featuring Bungee Jumping, a Treetop Top Action Zone, Zip Lines and a plethora of other activities. The resort also added the 300
acre outback, and the Olympic certified Reynolds Run. The Historic Warming Hut was also refurbished as well. So, the next time you’re considering a trip up to Mount Hood, whether it be winter, summer or any season in between, you might just want to stop by Skibowl, as this venerable and unique mountain resort has your recreational needs covered. Not only was Skibowl the first of its kind on Mt. Hood, it still offers a unique experience to those seeking fun and entertainment on the mountain!
20
The Mountain Times — December 2023
December SUNDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 26 27 31 20241
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 9 am
Hoodland Women’s Club and K&M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd | Suite 104 Photos with Santa | 10 am $15 for 1 Solo | $25 for 3 Family Poses
Alpine Events 73365 E US-26 Brinner (Breakfast for Dinner) with Santa | 5 pm $30 per person | Wear your Fav Holiday PJs!
Advent Begins*
“Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas... perhaps... means a little
MONDAY
Hoodland Lutheran Church Narcotics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catho Alcoholics Anonymous
Coffeehouse 26 Al-Anon | 5 pm
Sandy AntFarm Cafe & B 39140 Proctor Blvd Narcotics Anonymous |
Repeal Day – The 21st Amendment ends Prohibition.
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 9 am
Coffeehouse 26 Al-Anon | 5 pm
St. John in the Woods Catho Alcoholics Anonymous
Skyway Bar & Grill Patterns Fly | 6 pm Andy Coe, D’Vonne Lewis and Galen Clack | Jazz
Alpine Events 73365 E US-26 Souper Monday | 5 pm $30 per person + a can of soup
Centennial Plaza Giant Menorah Lighting | 5:30 pm
Sandy Fire District 72 A 17460 Burns Avenu Sandy Rotary Club Meeting
Human Rights Day Nobel Prize Day
Hoodland Lutheran Church Narcotics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 9 am Hoodland Lutheran Church Narcotics Anonymous | 6 pm
New Moon
Sandy AntFarm Cafe & B 39140 Proctor Blvd Narcotics Anonymous |
Poinsettia Day
St. John in the Woods Cathol Alcoholics Anonymous |
Coffeehouse 26 Al-Anon | 5 pm
Sandy AntFarm Cafe & B 39140 Proctor Blvd Narcotics Anonymous |
Alpine Events 73365 E US-26 Celebrate Winter | 5 pm $30 per person
bit more.” - How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Dr. Seuss
National Maple Syrup Day
Sandy Transit Operations Center 16610 Champion Way Jolly Trolley | 5 pm Through Decorated Sandy Neighborhoods
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 9 am
Skyway Bar & Grill Christmas Eve Karoke Party | 6 pm
Altitude Christmas Buffet | 11 am Reservations needed!
National Egg Nog Day
Christmas Eve
Hoodland Lutheran Church Narcotics Anonymous | 6 pm
The Brightwood Tavern Christmas Buffet | 12 pm
Skyway Bar & Grill Bob Voll & The Too Loose Band | 9 pm New Years Eve Party
New Year’s Eve
Coffeehouse 26 Al-Anon | 5 pm
Full Cold Moon
Kwanzaa Begins
St. John in the Woods Cathol Alcoholics Anonymous | K & M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd. | Sui Kids Craft Camp (Ages 6-12 Sandy Fire District 72 An 17460 Burns Avenue Sandy Rotary Club Meeting | Sandy AntFarm Cafe & B 39140 Proctor Blvd Narcotics Anonymous | 7
*Denotes that the date changes each year **Please call Wraptitiude for more information at 5 Contact K&M Creations for more information at 503
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm
Mallards Cafe & Pub New Years Eve Party
First Quarter
New Year’s Day Kwanzaa Ends
Do you have an event that you would like to promote? Email kaity@activemediausa.com. Space is limited and not guaranteed. Event details
New arrivals for the holidays!
Wilderness First Responder Hybrid Class In-Person Dates: March 8-10 and March 16-17 Cost: $700.50
For more info contact Josh Stratman at: 503-491-7201 or josh.stratman@mhcc.edu
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
AY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1 2 7 8 9 3 14 15 16 0 21 22 23 7 28 29 30
Meinig Memorial Park Pet Pictures with the Grinch | 6 pm
Hoodland Farmers Night Market | 4 pm 68211 E Hwy 26 | Welches, OR 97067
Sandy Historial Society & Museum 39345 Pioneer Blvd - Open House | 4 pm
Mount Hood Lions Club 24720 E Woodsey Way | Welches, OR 97067 Christmas Toy Drive Dinner | 6 pm
Shabbat Candle Lighting | 4:08 pm
Centennial Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony | 6 pm 38348 Pioneer Boulevard | Sandy, OR 97055 Skyway Bar & Grill Eric Kallio | 7 pm Folk Rock
olic Church | 9 am
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Overeaters Anonymous | 6 pm
Bakery d | 7 pm
Pearl Harbor Day
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Overeaters Anonymous | 6 pm
Meinig Memorial Park Evening with the Snow Queen | 6 pm
Cooper’s Wine Bar & Shop Feature Tasting: Lemelson | 6 pm
Skyway Bar & Grill Sweet & Juicy | 7 pm Fruit that plays party music
Skyway Bar & Grill The Pagan Jug Band | 7 pm Zydeco/Bluegrass
Meinig Memorial Park Estampa Y Santa | 6 pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Overeaters Anonymous | 6 pm
Shabbat Candle Lighting | 4:09 pm
Meinig Memorial Park Shortest Day Walkway | 6 pm
Mallards Cafe & Pub Dante Zapata | 6:30 pm
Skyway Bar & Grill The Resolectrics | 7 pm Rock & Soul Power Trio
Bakery d | 7 pm
Roast Chestnuts Day
Bakery d 7 pm
Skyway Bar & Grill Steelhead Stalkers | 7 pm Christmas Jazz show
Humbug Day
National Date Nut Bread Day
lic Church 9 am
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Overeaters Anonymous | 6 pm
Shabbat Candle Lighting | 4:14 pm
ite 104 2) | 10 am nnex e | 4:30 pm Bakery
Meinig Memorial Park Holiday Happy Hour | 6 pm 21+ Event
Skyway Bar & Grill Deja 2 | 7 pm Folk Rock
K & M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd. | Suite 104 Kids Craft Camp (Ages 6-12) | 10 am
K & M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd. | Suite 104 Kids Craft Camp (Ages 6-12) | 10 am
7 pm
Card Playing Day
K & M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd | Suite 104 Contact: 503.819.5667 Ages 16+ | Tuesdays from 12/5 to 12/19
Kids Arts & Crafts | 4 pm
National Chocolate Covered Anything Day
Ages 6-11 | Wednesdays from 12/6 to 12/20
Homeschool Kids Arts & Crafts | 10:30 am Thursdays from 12/7 to 12/21
Intro to Watercolors | 7 pm
Ages 16+ | Saturdays from 12/2 to 12/23
Festivus – For the Rest of Us Roots Day
Skyway Bar & Grill Billy D. & The Hoo Doos | 7 pm Chicago Blues
Pepper Pot Day
1937 Steiner Church 68825 E. Barlow Trail Road Steiner Church Tours | 10 am Every First Saturday
Acrylic Painting Beginners | 7 pm
Skyway Bar & Grill Cedar Teeth | 7 pm Rustic PNW Pop Rock
Chanukah Ends
REPEAT EVENTS
Wraptitude 67441 US-26 Live Music | Varies** Mondays
Christmas Card Day
Downtown Sandy Businesses Stocking Stroll | 4 pm Shabbat Candle Lighting | 4:07 pm Skyway Bar & Grill Skillethead | 7 pm Bend-based Bluegrass K & M Creations 22403 E Welches Rd. | Suite 104 Art Night: Paint & Sip (Ages 16+) | 7 pm
Annex ue g | 4:30 pm
lic Church | 9 am
Skyway Bar & Grill Petunia & The Vipers | 7 pm Cowboy Swing
Shabbat Candle Lighting | 4:06 pm
Chanukah Begins
olic Church | 9 am
21
Bacon Day National Bicarbonate of Soda Day
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Alcoholics Anonymous | 6 pm Women’s Meeting | Fridays Mallards Cafe & Pub Live Music Fridays | 6:30 pm Deja 2+ on December 1st Jacob Westfall on December 8th Jordan Smith on December 15th Dante Zapata on December 22nd
503.622.0893 3.819.5667
may be edited for simplification.
Due Date 15th of prior month. Events subject to change without notice.
THE CABINS Creekside at Welches
Favorite of Friends and Family 503-622-4275
www.mthoodcabins.com
SALMON VALLEY HOME CONTRACTING LLC Mt. Hood’s Go-To Local Contractor for Decking & Fencing Contact us today for a Free Estimate! Salmonvalleyhc.com (503) 969-6124 salmonvalleyhc@gmail.com Rated 5 stars on Google! OR CCB #238999
22
The Mountain Times — December 2023
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
23
Local News
Real Estate Agent to Retire After 38 Years
Regina and her husband, David.
Regina Lythgoe is retiring from real estate at the end of December after 38 years of selling houses and living on The Mountain. But don’t expect that to slow her down. She has an active lifestyle with a sense of humor to match. Asked how old she was,
she said jokingly, “I’m on the smiling side of 70 or the other side of 60, but not 70.” “If I could sit down long enough and write a book about my experiences there would be a lot of laughs and fun and good experiences,” she said. Some of the things that have made her laugh over the years happened while showing properties to clients. Things like setting off alarms, walking in on somebody sleeping in a bedroom, getting stuck in the snow with people, and getting pulled over on the highway for driving with expired tags. “That was embarrassing,” she said. Retirement for Regina means more time to laugh with the people she loves doing the things she loves. She plans to
stay busy in the community and with family and traveling the world. Regina and her husband, David, share a love for the game of golf. Both are longtime members of the Mt. Hood Golf Club and live in a beautiful house on the golf course at Mt. Hood Oregon Resort in Welches. She also enjoys cooking, gardening and bicycling around the neighborhood. Regina is an active member of the Hoodland Women’s Club, a community service organization which gave more than $16,000 in charitable donations last year. After growing up in Southern California and going to Oregon State in Corvallis, she moved to The Mountain. That’s where she first met and bought
a house from David, her future husband and business partner. A few years later, in 1985, she answered a newspaper ad he placed in the Mountain Times for a real estate agent. She got the job. They got married. Regina has seen home prices skyrocket over the years in the Mount Hood area. When she started her career in real estate in 1985, three-bedroom houses went for $59,000, she said. In today’s market, they’re going for $559,000, and prices are holding firm. “There’s no better place to live and to work and to raise a family,” Regina said. The Lythgoes raised two sons and a daughter in their Welches home. Working in real estate offered them the freedom to
spend more time with their family and attend their children’s after-school sports activities. Regina said many of her clients have become her best friends. She said her co-workers feel like sisters to her. When Regina and David sold their business to Keller Williams Realty about five years ago, they continued working for the company. Regina said they were happy with the sale. Regina said a perfect day for her would be getting together with friends and family and cooking. “I like to get creative cooking,” she said. “Just ask my husband. He’s my best customer. He complains about his weight.”
On behalf of The Mountain Times and all previous publishers and owners of The Mountain Times, we would like to thank Regina and her Husband David for their many years of supporting The Mountain Times newspaper. We wish her well in her retirement.
SPACIOUS ONE LEVEL WITH AN OPEN FLOOR PLAN
$549,000
Outstanding in her field since 1985. REGINA LYTHGOE
Regina Lythgoe Oregon Broker 503.799.3087 503.622.3117
OR Broker 503-622-3117 | 503-799-3087 rmlythgoe@msn.com | mthoodrealestate.com
Outstanding in her field since 1985
rmlythgoe@msn.com • www.mthoodrealestate.com
Delightfully fresh and clean 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is a chip shot from a 27-hole golf course and stroll to the Salmon River. Perfect full-time home or vacation rental. One level with an open floor plan. High ceilings with large windows make this home bright and airy. This spacious home has room for RV and has a shop on a half acre. All new interior paint, carpeting and fixtures. Private backyard for hot tub, barbeque, or just relaxing. $559,000 and seller will consider buyer closing costs. Call owner/agent at 503-622-3117 or 503-799-3087 cell for details.
24
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Hoodland Women’s Club Highlights
Dave Hunt from NAMI presenting at the HWC December meeting.
By Cathy Lavin For The Mountain Times
A new fundraiser for the Hoodland Women’s Club (HWC) will be introduced this year on Sunday, December 3, from 10 a.m to noon at K&M Creations, 24403 East Welches
Road #104 in Welches. For $15 for a photo with Santa and/or $25 for a three-pose family holiday photo, local residents can help HWC raise funds in support of the local community while simultaneously celebrating the holidays. HWC member Jennifer Monahan and her friend Josh Carlile will star as Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event will also feature cookie decorating for the kids and a toy drive for Hoodland children. Hoodland Women’s Club also participated in the community’s Night Market on November 17 at the Church on the Mountain in Welches – and will do so again on Friday, December 1, from 4-8 p.m. Everyone is invited to stop by to find a Christmas cottage to add to their holiday decor and to check out the offerings of other vendors.
In addition to the fundraising activities, the club hosted a November 30 seminar for members where they learned the basics of Google and Zoom. That event, held at Cooper’s Wine Bar & Shop, was facilitated by HWC member (and parliamentarian) Barbara Avila. Next up on the social calendar for HWC members will be a “Bunco and Bubbles” event on December 15 from 2-4 p.m. at the home of HWC member Lynne Pollard. The event will feature appetizers, bubbly wine and a bunco game with prizes. Members who wish to attend are asked to RSVP to their e-vite by December 11. The HWC is always looking for new members who are interested in getting to know others while helping our Mountain communities. Members of the Hoodland community
(whether full time or part time) are welcome to join at any time. Dues are just $25 per year (the fiscal year runs from July 1-June 30). For more information, check out the HWC website at hoodlandwomensclub.org or contact the club’s board members at board@ hoodlandwomensclub. org. The club’s general meetings are usually held the first Monday of the month at a local business. The November meeting was on November 6 at Mt. Hood Kiwanis Club Camp. Dave Hunt, representing the Clackamas County chapter of the National Alliance of Mental Health (NAMI) spoke to the group about education,
support and advocacy provided through NAMI. The HWC’s annual holiday meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the Resort at Mt. Hood, Oregon in Welches.
MOUNTAIN VENUES with MENUS Order at: mapleaqua.com
AL FORNO FERRUZZA
73285 Hwy 26, Rhododendron
503-622-1212
Rustic Authentic Wood-Fired Pizza.
Indoor dining/outdoor patio.
BARLOW TRAIL ROADHOUSE
69580 Hwy 26, Welches
503-622-1662
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. Daily Specials, Halibut fish & chips, Fried chicken.
Closed Mon/Tues.
BRIGHTWOOD TAVERN
63010 E Brightwood Bridge Rd
503-622-1568
Burgers. Full menu.
10am-10pm Indoor/Outdoor seating.
www.facebook.com/ BrightwoodTavern
CHICALI CANTINA
Hoodland Shopping Ctr., Welches.
503-564-9091
Traditional Mexican. Live music Wednesdays.
Wed/Thur 11-8pm, Fri/Sat 11am-9pm, Sun 2-8pm.
chicalicantina.com
COFFEE BREWSTERS
Hoodland Shopping Ctr.
503-622-3396
Espresso, Tea, Scones, Bagels, Sandwiches, Pastries, Snacks. Monthly Coffee Special.
Mon-Fri 6am-6pm.
coffeebrewsters.com
COFFEE HOUSE 26
67211 US-26, Welches
503-622-4074
Espresso, home made baked good, breakfast sandwiches, beverages.
Mon--Thur 7am-1pm Fri--Sun 7am-3pm
coffeehouse26.com
COOPER’S WINE BAR & SHOP
24540 E Welches Rd, Welches
503-662-2025
Wines, beers. Tasting flights. Charcuterie boards-meats, cheeses. Snacks.
Wednesday-Saturday 2:00-8:00pm
DAIRY QUEEN
73401 US-26, Rhododendron
503-622-4495
Dine-in, Drive-through
Mon-Thur 11am - 8 pm Fri-Sun 11am-8:30 pm Sun.-Tues., Thur. 8am-1pm, Wed.closed, Fri.-Sat. 8am-1pm, 5pm-8pm Days & hours online.
barlowtrailroadhouse.com call for to-go orders
cooperswinebarandshop.com cooperswinebar@gmail.com dairyqueen.com
DRAGONFLY CAFÉ & BAKERY
Mt Hood Village Resort
503-622-2400
Breads, pastries.Dining, Catering, Cocktails. Indoor / outdoor seating.
EL BURRO LOCO
67211 Hwy 26, Welches
503-622-6780
Mexican. Margaritas. Beer. Indoor/Outdoor dining.
FERNIE’S COFFEE
73265 Hwy 26, Rhododendron
503-564-9061
Proudly serving Stumptown coffees. Breakfast & Lunch - Bagels, box lunches, soup, sandwiches
Thurs-Tues 6am-3pm. Closed Wed.
Find us on Facebook
IVY BEAR FAMILY PIZZERIA
54735 E Hwy 26, Sandy
503-208-9111
Old World Style Pizza, calzones, wings, salads. Wine/Beer/Soda. Arcade Room. Cured meats.
Mon-Fri 4-9pm, Sat & Sun 2-9pm.
wingspromotions.com/ivybear
MT. HOOD BAKING COMPANY
24525 E Welches Rd., Welches
503-322-6623
Fresh homemade breads, sandwiches, assortment of decadent pastries.
Open 8am-3pm Saturday-Sunday.
mthoodbakingcompany.com
MT. HOOD OREGON RESORT
Welches
503-622-2214
Mallards Cafe & Pub: Open Thurs-Sun Noon10pm. Laid back pub, familiar pub food and scenic golf course views.
Altitude: Open 7 days a week, hours vary. Familiar favorites. Gorgeous view with outside dining.
mthood-resort.com
MT HOOD ROASTERS
73451 Hwy 26, Rhododendron
503-622-6574
Espresso, stuffed breakfast bagels, teas freshly roasted coffee beans. Custom labeled coffee. Gifts. Outdoor sitting.
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm.
mthoodroasters.com
SANDBAR BBQ
39750 Hwy 26, Sandy
503-832-8246
Craft cocktails, 29 taps / beer, wine. Dog friendly patio. Burgers, pulled pork, tri-tip & more.
Thursday - Monday, 4pm - 9pm.
dragonflycafeandbakery.com Order at: elburro-loco.com
sandbarbbq.com skywaybarandgrill.com Call to order.
SKYWAY BAR & GRILL
71545 E Hwy. 26, Zigzag
503-622-3775
Firepit. BBQ, ribs, burgers, famous mac n’ cheese.
Thurs–Mon, 3PM – 9PM.
THE RENDEZVOUS
67149 Hwy 26 (Rendezvous Ctr.) Welches
503-622-6837
Seasonal specials, steak, seafood, desserts.
Lunch/Dinner. Wed-Sun, 3-8pm.
thevousgrill.com
TIMBERLINE LODGE
27500 E Timberline Rd., Government Camp
503-272-3311
Open Daily. Several options from casual to fine dining.
timberlinelodge.com/lodge/dining
WHISTLE STOP
66674 Hwy 26, Welches
503-622-3440
Burgers. Breakfast until 2pm Lunch/Dinner, Full Bar.
Open 9am-9pm, 21 and over.
whistlestopwelches.com
WRAPTITUDE
67441 E. Hwy 26, Welches
503.622.0893
Legendary Burgers & Fries. Est. 2010. Live music Sat., Sun., and Mon.
Open 11am-8pm.
wraptitude.com
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
25
Local News
BINGO! Thanks to our many Bingo players and a hardworking crew of dedicated Lions, we have enjoyed our best fall bingo season ever. There will be no bingo during the month of December but we will be up and running again beginning Friday, January 12th, 2024. Remember doors open at 6:00pm with bingo starting at 7:00pm. We thank all of you for supporting this very important Lions’ fundraiser.
HEALTH COMMITTEE! LOOK FOR OLD AND NEW PROJECTS! Look for the Red Cross Blood Drives to continue. We try to do at least 3 per year. We will plan to do a Health Fair at the club using the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundations’ Mobile Screening unit (checking glaucoma, vision, diabetes,
Home Watch as low as
ME
H
O
W AT
C
O
OD L AN
D
By Lion, Milt Fox
For The Mountain Times
FROM THE BOSS! At our last meeting club President Lion Tyler Lehmann explained that Covid and the time for loafing is over. We have over 100 members now and he is going to see that we are all busy! So with that, read on!
and blood pressure). Something new that we are checking into are other screenings, portable Mammography, maybe a mobile Women’s Clinic, Dental etc. Remember early detection is the best step toward a successful treatment.. These are just some of the things that we are looking into. Since its beginning, the Mt. Hood Lions Club has been focused on providing community health programs. We have given over 15,000 immunization shots to local residents (Polio, Measles, Flu, etc.). Our first blood drive in 1951 netted nearly 100 units of blood. Thanks to all of you! Thank you all for your continued support of the Mt. Hood Lions Club and its many community projects. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Mt. Hood Lions Club. It’s great to be a Lion!
H
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS! We hope you enjoy our Christmas Lights on the clubhouse this holiday season. They were installed by Lions Mike Casley and David Buoy, with the juice provided by Portland General Electric Company (PGE).
H
Mountain Roar
$39.9th9 per mon
Who is watching your vacation home while you’re away? We are your first defense in home repairs. • Human & Pest intrusion • Vandalism • Squatters • Snow, ice & tree damage • Gas leaks
• Water leaks • Electrical issues • Fire prevention • Trip hazards
Give us a call at 503-314-1482 to get started!
G ADVERTISE IN THE N I M CO MOUNTAIN DIRECTORY ! N O O S THE MOUNTAIN TIMES Business Directory
2024
We have been asked by local businesses to resurrect an old-fashioned phone book with contact information for local area business printed for all to see.
Since phone connections are, at times, spotty on the mountain, they feel that having a printed directory to fall back on would be a good idea. So, by popular demand, we present the 2024 Mountain Times Business Directory. This publication will have the traditional “Yellow Pages” look, with regular and bold listings and display advertising. We will be printing 10,000 copies and mailing them directly to the 4,600 local area addresses that receive our paper each month. The remainder of the directories will be distributed up and down Highway 26 to area businesses, hotels, resorts and other high-traffic areas for free pickup.
To participate and for information on sizes and rates, email Matt Nelson:
matt@mountaintimesoregon.com
26
The Mountain Times — December 2023
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
27
Health
New Covid Vaccine By Amber Ford
The Mountain Times
While Covid-19 may seem like a nightmare of years past, the many variants of the virus and potential long term health impacts continue to linger throughout many communities across the United States. This past September the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the latest defense against Covid-19 in the form of the most updated vaccine, Novavax. Similar to the original vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer), Novavax works to help boost a defense to the ever-changing variants of Covid-19. As with vaccines for other illnesses, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) highly recommends anyone over the age of five obtain this vaccine for protection against serious illness, becoming hospitalized and even death. Longtime Mt. Hood Villages resident and physician,
Dr. Doug Lyon, also highly recommends getting this new vaccine for added protection to this ever-changing virus. “A Covid shot this fall is important to protect you from Covid,” Lyon said. “It’s designed to better protect you against the new variants of Covid that are now circulating in the United States,” Lyon added. As with any vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration and the Center for Disease Control, the new Covid-19 vaccine is considered safe for the general public. According to Lyon the positive benefits of this vaccine outweigh any potential negative side effects. “The benefits of the Covid-19 vaccine continue to outweigh any risk,” Lyon said. “Serious reactions after receiving the Covid-19 vaccine are rare according to the CDC,” Lyon added. The CDC’s study also showed that the risk of cardiac complications, including myocarditis (an inflam-
mation of the heart muscle) in males ages 12-17 years old was 1.8-5.6 times higher after a Covid-19 infection than after Covid-19 vaccinations. Unlike its vaccine predecessors, the Novavax vaccine does not require previous boosters or Covid-19 vaccinations prior to obtaining the shot. According to both Lyon and the CDC, any and all vaccines that help fight and prevent Covid-19 are important heading into the cold weather seasons, but the Novavax vaccine has the ability to defend the body against this ever-changing virus. “The new vaccines better target (are more effective against) the new variants that have developed over the last two years,” Lyon said. According to the CDC, this new vaccine targets XBB.1.5, a new sub-variant of Omicron that has spread quickly across the United States. The CDC goes on to say that the Novavax vaccine should also work
Welcome to the Land of Gifts
New arrivals for the holidays!
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against currently circulating variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus which has been linked to the XBB strain. Both Lyon and the C.D.C strongly urge the general public to consider protecting themselves this flu and cold season with the Novavax vaccine and explain how important it is to our commu-
nities to be wellness prepared. “The best defense is a good offense,” Lyon said. “In some people there are long term complications from getting Covid, among them death,” Lyon added. For more information on where you can receive your Covid vaccine contact your doctor or visit the cdc.gov
28
Health
The Mountain Times — December 2023
The Whole Tooth: Backwoods Wizard
By Dr. Robert Kelly, D.M.D. General Dentist, McKenzie Dental
As we have made our way through another autumn, I have tried to take the time to appreciate all the beauty around us. The beautiful bright colors of the trees and leaves everywhere seem extra vibrant to me this year. From the window of our office today, as some deer made their way through our colorful garden, I am reminded of how blessed we are to live in such beautiful surroundings. The sight of the deer brought a smile to my face and to my patient’s; the backdrop of the bright red and yellow maple leaves behind it were a perfect frame for a mental photograph that will
live on in my memory. Later on in the day, I had to chuckle and smile when I read a dental news article by author Kevin Henry, who wrote about “The Wild Tale Behind a Denture Made of Deer Teeth.” This story also left an imprint on my memory. To introduce the main character: Francis Wharton, a Canadian in the remote British Columbia woods in the 1960s, was both an expert hunter and apparently an inventor as well. He was a bit of an eccentric and lived alone in a very isolated area. He found himself in a predicament. He did not have teeth to eat with. He was far from civilization. One day he shot a deer and then used the deer’s teeth to make a full set of upper dentures for himself. He filed down the teeth to sculpt them to the proper shape and size and then, using a base of wood, set the teeth with a household cement. A magazine article at the time reported that he used these dentures for at least three years although he
described them as “loose” and “dark and dirty.” They probably did not fit well at all, but it is amazing that he was able to make a set that actually looked pretty close to a modern day denture (you can google it and find a picture online). If you ever wanted to take a look at them in person, they are on display in Canada at the Museum of Health Care in Kingston. Pretty impressive. Equally impressive (or disturbing) is he used those same teeth to eat the deer he originally shot! I guess he earned his nickname “The Backwoods Wizard!” As I’ve heard from friends and patients recently about the autumn hunting season of 2023, it’s hard not to reflect upon “The Backwoods Wizard.” And I didn’t even have time to talk about his amazing battles with wild bears in the Canadian wilderness. Maybe next month. I’ll see you all again here at The Whole Tooth in the New Year!
ROBERT KELLY, DMD, GENERAL DENTIST
We are preferred providers with most insurances and have specials for those without insurance
Cosmetic Implants & Family Dental Care Open Monday–Thursday Extended hours with early mornings
24540 E Welches Rd. Welches, Oregon 503-622-3085 · mckenziedental.net
Above: Francis Wharton, the “Backwood Wizard” who crafted his own pair of dentures using teeth from the deer he hunted and cleaned. Right: The infamous dentures.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
29
Health
Well-Adjusted: Navigating the Risks of Cruise Control on Winter Roads it’s crucial for drivers to exercise caution when road conditions are less than ideal.
By Dr. Melanie Brown Chiropractic Physician, Mountain Life Clinic
As winter descends and roads become slick with rain or ice, the convenience of cruise control can transform from a helpful feature to a potential hazard, especially on Oregon’s challenging roads. In this article, we’ll explore the dangers associated with using cruise control in wet or icy weather and why
1. Treacherous Turns on Highway 26: Oregon’s Highway 26, known for its breathtaking views and challenging twists, is a main artery for those navigating the stunning terrain. However, it also earns a reputation as one of the more hazardous highways in the country due to its winding paths and unpredictable weather. Engaging cruise control on this road, especially during inclement weather, can amplify the risks associated with loss of traction and delayed responses to the road’s twists and turns. 2. Loss of Traction and Control: Cruise control systems are
designed to maintain a consistent speed set by the driver, but they may not be equipped to respond adequately to sudden changes in road conditions. On wet or icy surfaces, loss of traction can occur swiftly, compromising the driver’s ability to control the vehicle. Disengaging cruise control allows for more immediate and precise reactions to road grip changes. 3. Delayed Response to Hazards: When cruise control is engaged, the vehicle may not respond as quickly to external factors such as slippery patches or sudden obstacles. This delayed response time can be critical in wet or icy conditions where road hazards are more prevalent. Manually controlling the speed allows drivers to react promptly to unforeseen
Be a light in the darkness... Become a TIP Volunteer.
TIP Volunteers are specially trained citizens requested through the emergency response system to provide immediate, practical and emotional support to citizens on the worst day of their lives.
We want you to join our Hoodland TIP team! Learn more online at tipnw.org or call 503-823-3937
Mountain Mutual SUPPORT GROUP
FREE Monthly Peer Support Group The open, confidential peer support group focuses on identifying, coping and processing difficulties that arise within ourselves and our community in a safe, non-judgemental way. Our shared goal is to help shed some light upon the dark side of this mountain by creating a supportive community for healing.
Facilitated by fellow community members: Erika Dixon LSC, M.Ed. & Kimberly Holland LCSW
Instagram: @mountainmutualsupport mounthoodhealing@gmail.com
· Community lead activities · “Pop-Up” style, different each month · Find more details on our instagram page · 18+ Folks who reside in the villages of Mt. Hood
dangers, potentially preventing accidents. 4. Hydroplaning Risk: Wet weather brings the added danger of hydroplaning, where the tires lose contact with the road due to a layer of water. Cruise control can contribute to this risk by maintaining a constant speed, reducing the driver’s ability to modulate speed based on the road’s conditions. Maintaining manual control allows drivers to adjust their speed to minimize the likelihood of hydroplaning. 5. Limited Engine Braking: Engine braking, or using the engine’s resistance to slow the vehicle down, is a valuable tool in slippery conditions. Cruise control, however, may not utilize engine braking effectively, particularly on
downhill slopes. Manually managing speed allows drivers to employ engine braking strategically, enhancing overall control in challenging weather. Conclusion: While cruise control is a convenient feature for highway driving in optimal conditions, it becomes a potential hazard when roads are wet or icy. The unique challenges of Oregon’s Highway 26 underscore the importance of adaptability for drivers. By staying actively engaged in the driving process, adjusting speed according to road conditions, and remaining adaptable, drivers can navigate the stunning but demanding landscapes of Oregon with greater security.
30
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
The Tail of Three Heelers By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
Gary Randall has had three dogs over the past 35 years he’s lived in the foothills of Mount Hood. Sadie, Betty and Hazel, all females, came and went in succession one replacing the other as each passed on. He has loved all three of these Australian cattle dogs, better known as blue or red heelers, giving each of them an old-fashioned female name. He says girls are less aggressive and more submissive than their male counterparts. This is the tale of Gary’s heelers, who have seen him through good times and bad. Since he welcomed Hazel,
his newest of the breed, into his life, good times are rolling again on four legs. Randall remembers the day he first met the brindle red heeler puppy. Still mourning the loss of Betty, who died a year and a half ago, Gary visited a working dog breeder at the urging of his wife, Darlene. That’s where his tiny new heeler singled him out. “I got down on my knees and she curled up right between my legs,” Gary said. “She instantly came to me and, of course, I just melted. She has completely captured our world since then. She’s been excellent therapy for me. “She is the perfect little dog. I love her a lot. She has devel-
oped into a happy little dog.” But before Hazel was a twinkle in his eye, Gary had a special bond with his second dog he will never forget. He loved Betty. From the time he rescued her when she was an 8-month-old stray until her dying day, Betty was his faithful canine companion. Following in the paw prints of his first heeler, Betty lived a long adventurous life for all of her 15 years, hiking, camping and taking trips to exotic locations around the country. She tagged along with Gary on guided tours he still offers as part of his photography business. “Betty was part of my ther-
apy, my regrowth as a new person after my other life fell apart,” Gary said. Betty and Gary were inseparable as he faced some difficult times. She helped him get through a divorce, the deaths of his father and brother, and the loss of a job. “She was the perfect companion,” Gary said. “I had Betty before I even met my wife Darlene. That was one reason my heart was so invested in that dog because It was just her and I for so long.” Betty acted like a guide dog for Sadie as Gary’s first blue heeler got old, lost her sight and her legs gave out. Both
dogs lived together for a while, with Betty eventually replacing Sadie when she died. Another dog’s life later found Gary devastated again when Betty passed away. That is, until Hazel came along. Hazel, like her breed, likes to keep active. She enjoys hiking along the Sandy River behind Gary’s house and would play go-fetch all day with a ball if you’ve got the time and energy. Check out Gary’s Facebook page and you’ll see Hazel’s got her own kind of fan club. When he’s not photographing landscapes like Mount Hood, Gary likes to read, write and collect local history.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
31
Outdoors
The Viewfinder: Sylvan Snapshots The Viewfinder
Photographing while hiking the forest.
can be done at most any time of the day but, in my opinion, it is the most beautiful when people are not there. It is not that I am antisocial, but my best forest photos have been taken early in the morning, late in the day or especially when the weather is not warm and sunny. Many times, I’m
bends the light away revealing what’s beneath the reflection. Find creeks that flow through the scene. We are fortunate that we have some beautiful little creeks that run through the forests. Make them the subject of your forest photo. They provide a subject and, in many cases, another
“I have heard a lot of people claim that bringing a camera along on a hike distracts them from living in the moment, but I feel that my camera enhances that moment by forcing me to slow down and be more observant.” hiking out of the forest when others are hiking in, or vice versa. Weather has great effect on the look of the photos. I love the forest on sunny, misty mornings the most. A forest can be complicated. Find leading lines through the scene. Don’t discount the hiking trail itself. Be aware of the directional elements in the scene, including the vertical alignment of the trees. Vertical compositions complement well the vertical elements of the trees. Even a log lying on the forest floor can be a nice lead into a forest scene. Be aware of the light, especially of its direction into the forest. Light in the background can create a sense of depth by leading the viewer from a dark part of the scene into the light in the background. Something that is also a consequence of the light coming into the scene is that there will be reflections on the leaves and foliage. This creates a shine that will subdue the color of the leaves. The best way to resolve that is to use a circular polarizer on the lens of your camera. It
By Gary Randall For The Mountain Times
I love photographing the forests that surround our mountain home. Even though we have vistas that look out over the forests, many with Mount Hood in the background, our forests are best experienced and photographed from within while wandering down one of the many
trails that we are fortunate to have around our community. Our local trails vary in difficulty from ADA-approved boardwalks to steep technical challenges, which makes it practical for us all to enjoy our time in forests. When I am on a trail I don’t worry about being in a hurry, especially on an in-and-out trip. I find that the faster I hike
the less that I observe around me. Having a camera with me will also increase the attention that I pay to my surroundings. I am observant of beautiful views, light filtering through the trees and even the smallest details such as flowers and mushrooms. Here are a few tips for creating beautiful forest photos. Photographing the forest
lead through the forest scene. A creek is another place where one can use a circular polarizer. The surface of the water can have a reflection that can keep rocks or the creek bottom from showing up in the photo. The type of camera that you have means little, in fact you can even purchase a tripod and a polarizing filter for your cell phone camera, so don’t let not having a “good camera” stop you. It is said that the best camera is the one you have with you. While using your cell phone it is easy to fall into just taking some snapshots when you can certainly create artistic photos if you take the time to be purposeful in your photography. I have heard a lot of people claim that bringing a camera along on a hike distracts them from living in the moment, but I feel that my camera enhances that moment by forcing me to slow down and be more observant. It also gives me the satisfaction of being artistically creative while also doing something that I enjoy – hiking in the forest.
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Your Hoodland & Sandy Public Libraries The Hoodland and Sandy Public Libraries will be closed for the following holidays: Christmas Eve- Sun., Dec. 24 Christmas Day - Monday, Dec. 25 New Year’s Day - Monday, Jan. 1
On Dec. 14, we’ll be honoring our hardworking staff with a special lunch. As a result, Sandy Library will be closed from 12 pm to 2 pm and Hoodland Library will be opening at 2:30 pm. Thank you for your understanding and support in celebrating our amazing team!
- TAKE & MAKE Teens - Make a Crystal Yeti
Available Dec. 1. Grow “fur” crystals with this dazzling crystal yeti craft kit for teens. Kids - Melted Snowman Tealight Ornament Available December 15. Make a holiday ornament that looks like a melted snowman and keep it for yourself or give it as a gift. Adults - Frosted Winter Luminary Available Dec.15 . When it’s cold outside, it’s nice to bring the warmth inside with the festive glow of candlelight from a beautiful winter candle holder.
Dungeons and Dragons * New *
2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. 6pm - 9pm *check the library calendar, dates are subject to change. Sandy Library Community Room. Following old-school D&D rules from 1980. We are a friendly group of players both experienced and new to the game. Seats are limited. Registration is required. Info: Dungeon Master Steve Williamson at gaming@ruckerworks.com. Teens (13+) and Adults.
Fiber Arts Circle *New*
Tue., at 2pm Sandy Public Library An informal Fiber Arts circle has started meeting in the fireplace room at 2pm. Weavers, spinners, knitters, crocheters, if your work is portable, you are welcome.
Hat, Scarf, Mitten Tree Ending
Dec. 12, (Hoodland) Ending, Jan. 1st (Sandy) Bring your new or handmade hats, ear-warmers, mittens, gloves, scarves, socks, and slippers to decorate the holiday tree at the Sandy Public Library or Hoodland Public Library, New personal care products are also appreciated: Toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, hand lotion, travel tissue, lip balm, combs, etc Hoodland/Sandy Library details: The items will go to the Hoodland Community Christmas Basket program for local families. Hoodland will also collect non-perishable foods and small gifts, also for the Community Christmas Basket Program. Info: hoodlandlibrary@ci.sandy.or.us or 503-622-3460.
Sandy Library details: The items will go to the Sandy Community Action Center. Info: libraryassistants@ ci.sandy.or.us or 503-668-5537
Teen Artwork Contest 2024
Artists in grades 6-12 are invited to submit their original artwork, Dec. 1 - Jan. 15, for this year’s Summer Reading theme: Read, Renew, Repeat. The winner receives a $100 cash gift card, and their artwork will be featured countywide on Summer Reading materials for 2024. Visit www.lincc.org for details and the submission form.
Kids Lego Club
Sat., Dec. 3, 1 - 2pm Hoodland Library Community Room Build Lego creations with your friends. This event will happen on the first Saturday of each month.
Sandy Men’s Book Club
Mon., Dec. 4, 7pm Sandy Library Community Room “The Art of Racing in the Rain” - Garth Stein Info: mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us
Teen Hangout
DIY wire-wrapped galaxy rings + more Mondays, Dec. 4 & 18, 3pm - 4pm Sandy Library Community Room This month we’re breaking out the craft wire, beads, crystals, and jewelry-making tools to make easy DIY jewelry. Teens in grades 6th - 12th are welcome. Snacks provided! Info: Rebecca Hanset rhanset@ ci.sandy.or.us
Digital Book Club
Thur., Dec. 7, 7pm Zoom “My Italian Bulldozer“- Alexander McCall Smith. If you are a new member, sign up for the book club, email to tellen@ci.sandy. or.us
Teen Advisory Board (TAB)
Mon., Dec.11, 4pm - 5pm Sandy Library Community Room Join us for a youth leadership opportunity and act as a voice for Sandy area teens. Help plan teen programs, get volunteer hours, and more! Registration required: cityofsandy.activityreg.com Rebecca Hanset rhanset@ci.sandy.or.us
After School LEGO Kids Club
Tue.,, Dec. 12, 3:30 pm - 5pm Sandy Library Community Room Drop in at the library after school for the Kids’ LEGO club! Build something from our vast collection of LEGOs and then display your creation during the month until the following LEGO Club.
Sandy Women’s Book Club
Thur., Dec.14, 6pm Sandy Library Community Room “Little Fires Everywhere” - Celeste Ng This hybrid event occurs in the Sandy Public Library Community Room and via Zoom. All are welcome! Info: mhouck@ci.sandy. or.us
https://sugarspunrun.com/buckeye-recipe/
Holiday Cards for Seniors
Drop off completed cards by December 15. Make greeting cards for homebound seniors to celebrate the holiday season. Info: Katie Murphy kmurphy@ci.sandy.or.us
Hoodland Book Club
Tue., Dec. 19, 4pm Hoodland Library Community Room “The Midnight Library” - Matt Haig Info: Dianne Downey ddowney@ci.sandy. or.us
After School STEM Kids Club Sandy Library Community Room Tue., Dec . 26, 3:30 pm - 5pm Drop in at the library after school for Science fun! STEM Club is on the 4th Tuesday of the month. The library will present something science-related for you to try each month.
Teen Makerspace
Every Wednesday through January 3, 2024 Sandy Community Center Art Room 38348 Pioneer Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055 Registration required for each session: cityofsandy.activityreg.com Space is available. Questions? Contact Rebecca Hanset at rhanset@ci.sandy.or.us
ONGOING EVENTS
ODHS Drop-In Assistance **New Time** Tuesdays 10:30 am to 3pm Thursdays 10am to 3pm, Need assistance paying for food or child care? Are you looking for health coverage? ODHS (Oregon Department of Human Services) might be able to help! Meet a representative at the library in the study room. Contact Maureen Houck at 503-668-5537 or mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us.
Creation Station
2nd and 4th Mondays, 10am - 12pm Sandy Library Community Room Creation Station is a twice-monthly interactive program that welcomes adults with disabilities on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Art Lab, on the 2nd Monday, will offer several arts and crafts stations with various materials to accommodate different interests and abilities. Maker Lab, on the 4th Monday, will offer puzzles, games, LEGOs, and other building and problem-solving materials. For more information email kmurphy@ci.sandy.or.us.
The Mountain Times — December 2023
December 2023 New Hours! Sandy Public Library Monday: 10 am to 7 pm Tuesday: 10 am to 7 pm Wednesday: 10 am to 6 pm Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm Friday: 10 am to 6 pm Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm Sunday: 12 pm to 5 pm
Hoodland Public Library: Monday 10 am - 4 pm Tuesday 10 am - 6 pm Wednesday 12 pm - 7 pm Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm Friday 12 pm - 6 pm Saturday 12 pm - 5 pm
Tech Help
Have a question about using your computer, tablet, or smartphone? Call the library at 503-668-5537 to schedule an appointment with a librarian. Help is available on such topics as • email • social media • Microsoft Word • PC Basics • using the Internet The Sandy and Hoodland Public Library’s newsletter is emailed on a monthly basis. Call or email libraryassistants@ci.sandy.or.us if you want to be added to our mailing list, or follow our blog at sandylibrary. blogspot.com
Request a Book Bundle
Don’t know what to read next? Let us pick something out! The more you can tell us, the better the recommendation will likely be. Visit www.ci.sandy.or.us/library for the form, or email libraryassistants@ ci.sandy.or.us and we will send the form to you. www.ci.sandy.or.us/library
Storytimes
Sandy Public Library - Thursdays Thursdays, 10am Hoodland Public Library - Fridays Fridays, 10:30 -11am Molly Espenel mespenel@ci.sandy.or.us Family Storytime Saturdays, 10am Virtual Storytime Miss Monica records a storytime each week for you to watch from the comfort of your home! Sandy & Hoodland Libraries Storytime Parents Group on Facebook.
MOUNTAIN RECIPE
Easy Buckeyes Ingredients * 2 cups creamy peanut butter * 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened * 2 tablespoons light brown sugar firmly packed * 1/4 teaspoon salt * 1 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract * 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar * 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips * 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Contact us
Hoodland Public Library
24525 E. Welches Rd. Welches, OR. 97067 Info: hoodlandlibrary@ci.sandy.or.us or 503-622-3460.
Sandy Public Library
38980 Proctor Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055 Info: libraryassistants@ci.sandy.or.us or 503-668-5537
Directions 1. Combine peanut butter and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until well-combined. 2. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well. 3. Gradually add powdered sugar until completely combined. Scoop into Tablespoon-sized balls and roll with the palms of your hand until smooth and round. 4. Place on wax-paper lined cookie sheet and freeze for 15-20 minutes. 5. While peanut butter balls are chilling, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil and heat in the microwave in 25-second intervals (stirring in between) until chocolate is smooth and completely melted. Pour into a deep dish. 6. Remove peanut butter balls from freezer, spear the top of each peanut butter ball with a toothpick and, holding the toothpick, dip each buckeye ball into the melted chocolate. 7. Return to cookie sheet and remove toothpick. 8. Allow chocolate to harden before eating and enjoying.
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
33
Outdoors
The Angle: Cold-Weather Catch Winter Trout Fishing in Oregon
Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks hatchery-raised trout in many bodies of water throughout the winter months, and there is plenty of opportunity for adults and children to catch these fish in various sizes. To find where Trout are stocked in Oregon, simply go on the ODFW website and search for “Trout StockAuthor’s son with a stocked rainbow trout. ing Schedule.” You can also scan this By Lucas Holmgren QR code at the end The Mountain Times of this article. The Winter season may Although December and seem like a time when most January do not get as many outdoor activities come to a plants as February and March, halt, but for those looking there are plenty of trout left to catch trout, it’s a produc- over to catch from November tive time of year! The Oregon plants. Once February rolls
around, you’ll find lots of lakes newly enhanced with generous trout plants. Fishing for Stocked Trout When a lake gets stocked with trout, they are typically fed out of an ODFW truck with a tube that shoots the fish into the water. When they first hit the water they are often confused and a bit stunned by the experience. Of course, you may find very hungry trout right away, but the bite usually gets better on day two or three. After the fish have acclimated to the water temperature and explored their surroundings, they become ravenous feeders. The first week after a lake has been stocked is usually pretty incredible fishing. The fish are still hanging near their point of stocking (usually a boat ramp) and hunting the shallows for feed. When they’ve been in that lake for a few weeks, they will start seek-
ing out more traditional trout habitat, heading to deeper areas or mouths of creeks. At that point, you can still have phenomenal fishing, but you may have to launch a boat and search for them, or find a sweet spot off the bank. When it comes to gear, it is hard to beat bait such as Berkley PowerBait, ideally floating one to three feet off of the bottom. The most effective rig is a sliding weight that sits on the bottom, with a leader and light hook that is floated up by the buoyant bait. I have written a mini-book about this very technique called “PowerBait Tactics for Trout” that you can order on AmatoBooks. com to perfect this technique. Of course, good old-fashioned earthworms on a bobber setup will work well, as long as you ensure that the worm is getting somewhat close to the bottom. Although trout do eat off the bottom, it is best
to have it right in their line of sight. February Is Go Time! With all of the stocking occurring in February, it’s a wonderful time to go fish: bring the kids too! Just make sure everyone has rain gear and warm clothes to keep comfortable. Fishing makes the winter a joy!
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34
The Mountain Times — December 2023
December 2023
CROSSWORD Crossword
by Margie E. Burke
by Margie E. Burke
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Type of bonding 14 15 16 5 Martini base 19 17 18 10 Gravy holder 14 Xerox competi21 22 20 tor, once 15 Ear-related 23 24 25 16 Writer Quindlen 29 30 31 26 27 28 17 Steinbeck's "The Winter of 32 33 34 35 36 37 Our _____" 38 39 40 19 Organ knob 20 Like some jokes 41 42 43 or jobs 44 45 21 Military lockup 23 Takes a 49 50 51 46 47 48 breather 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 25 Social outcast 26 "Thunderstruck" 60 61 59 band 29 Beginning 63 64 62 32 Socrates, for 66 67 65 one 35 Non-___ (food Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate label) 38 More than a few 64 Mortar ingredient 9 Type of sax 40 Audience's 39 Trappings of 65 Downhill racer 10 Cager's target approval royalty 66 Hero pilot played 11 Like draft beer 43 Military bigwig 41 Poetic by Hanks 12 Positive pole 44 Bungled, with contraction 67 Storm centers 13 Slender candle "up" 42 "Spellbound" 18 Laudatory lines 46 Signs of actor 22 Ordained ones spoilage 44 Type of voyage DOWN 24 Hand-____ 47 Weak 45 Potpie 1 Skirt length leather 48 Short-winded ingredients 2 Comparable (to) 26 Church nook 50 Piggy-bank item 46 Frequently 3 Tax write-off 27 "Silkwood" star 51 Come-go link 49 Himalayan nation 4 Completely 28 Shabby joint 53 Says in a post52 Horse surround 30 Royal seat script maneuvering 5 Windmill parts 31 Fortune teller 54 Wise one 55 Make possible 6 Umpire's call 33 Eyes and ears 56 Donkey's call 59 Dinghy pair 7 Prepare for a 34 Hindu garment 57 Diane of 2020's 60 "Rio" singers formal 35 Singing group "Let Him Go" 62 Court order? 8 German philoso- 36 Flaky rock 58 Culminates 63 Shower feature pher Immanuel 37 Hardwood trees 61 Feel poorly
Solutions for Crossword and Sudoku Page 36
December 2023
SUDOKU Edited by Margie E. Burke SUDOKU
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Difficulty: Easy
7 8 9 1 5 2 3 6 7 1 8 2 4 1 6 7 4 8 8 6 Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate
4
7 6 5 3 4
HOW TO SOLVE:
Each row must containHOW the numbers TO SOLVE 1 to 9; each column Each row must must contain the contain the1numbers numbers to 9; and 1 to 9. each setcolumn of 3 bymust 3 Each contain boxes the mustnumbers contain 1 to 9. 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)
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
Local News
“Share the Warmth”Coat & Blanket Drive Warms Up Sandy Community As the coldest months of the year approach, brokers from Windermere Real Estate are teaming up to Share the Warmth and help provide winter necessities for those in need. As part of the annual campaign, the Windermere office in Sandy will be collecting donations from November 8 to December 20 to benefit Sandy’s Helping Hands and Rita’s Place, Inc. The organizations are specifically asking for new or gently used coats, jackets and socks in all sizes. Those who want to help can stop by participating Windermere offices to drop off donations. The Windermere office in Sandy, located at 38720 Proctor Blvd. #101, is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (by appointment only after 1 p.m. and on weekends). For a full list of all drop-off locations across Oregon, visit https://helpsharethewarmth.com/. "Year after year, Share the Warmth brings together Windermere Real Estate brokers and caring community members to ensure our neighbors are well-
equipped for winter,” said Scott Mitchelson, president of Windermere Services Company in Oregon and SW Washington. “This campaign is one of the many ways our brokers are collectively committed to helping the communities they serve.” If religion is a source of conflict, it’s better to have no religion.
Bahai.com
Kate 503-622-9191
PLACES OF WORSHIP In The Communities of Mt. Hood
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR CHURCH REGARDING SERVICES
24905 E Woodsey Way, Welches OR 503-668-4446
Sunday Morning Service is at 10 a.m. in the “Evergreen Room,” Mt. Hood Village
Behold His Glory!
Pastor Leonard Eurich - (971) 801-3843 leonard@tvf4.org www.tvf.org
Mt Hood Community Church
The Churchonthe Mountain
Catholic Church
Sunday Mass - 8 AM
a Non-Denominational Bible Church Pastor Tom Matthews - 503-898-8708
Worship Service-10:30am Sunday Sermon Topic:
“Jesus’ Message to a Chaotic World” The White Church with the Blue Roof 66951 E. Hwy 26 www.mthoodcommunitychurch.org
65000 E. Hwy 26, Welches OR 97067
Phone (503) 622-4079 Fax: (503) 622-3530 e-mail: tcotm@hotmail.com web: www.totcm.org PO Box 370 - 68211 Hwy. 26 - Welches 97067
10:30 am SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE Nursery & Jr. Church During Service We Exist To: Exalt The Lord, Equip the Saints & Extend His Kingdom!
Hoodland Lutheran Church a congregation of the ELCA
Catholic Church
18090 SE Langensand Rd., Sandy ~ 503-668-4446
MASS TIMES Saturday Vigil~5:00 P.M. Sunday~10:00 A.M. (English) 1:30 P.M. (Spanish)
Behold His Glory!
ALL ARE WELCOME
IN-PERSON & ZOOM WORSHIP Sundays - 10:30am Visit hoodlandllc.org for schedule
59151 E. Hwy 26
503-622-3916
email: hoodlandlutheranchurch@gmail.com
35
36
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Mountain Classified Ads EMPLOYMENT
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FREE STUFF
HIRING IN-HOME NANNY in Welches for a five month old infant. Starting in January. Tue/Wed/Th 8am-4pm. $17.00/hr starting pay, guaranteed hours. Open to a parent bringing along their own child. Must have a valid driver’s license and pass a background check. E-mail brittany.kintigh@gmail.com to express interest. Include two references. Se busca niñera en Welches para un bebe que tiene cinco meses. El empleo comienza en Enero. Martes, Miércoles y Jueves de 8am a 4pm. Pago inicial de $17.00/hora, horas garantizadas. Podría traer a su propio hijo. Debe tener una licencia de conducir válida y pasar una verificación de antecedentes. Para solicitar empleo, envíe un correo electrónico a brittany.kintigh@gmail.com y incluyen dos referencias.
WORK WANTED
Free horse manure - I load, you haul. Great for gardens or building up soil. Call 503-260-4993 for more info. Brightwood.
SERVICES Roof, gutter, moss/treat, windows & power washing. We do it all. Great current, verifiable references. Licensed & insured. 503-504-1523. juddwaibel@gmail.com
ECHO VALLEY NATIVES NATIVE PLANT NURSERY Offering a huge selection of wildflowers, grasses, trees and shrubs. Located just east of Sandy off of hwy 26, look for our sign on Luzon Ave. Open to the public 6 days a week, closed Wednesdays. Echovalleynatives.com 503-826-6026
TREVOR’S TREE SERVICE, LLC Tree Removals, Thinning/Pruning Limbing, Stump Grinding Hazard Tree Removals December 2023 A TOUCH OF CLASS CLEANING, INC. Emergency Services We clean your house with (503) 519-6462 integrity and excellence, trevorstreeservice@gmail.com while you experience a quality of life CCB#218434 spending time doing what you love! CASCADE YARD WORKS Licensed, bonded, insured. Landscape Maintenance www.toccleaning.com. & Snow Removal 503-407-7329 Now accepting new Edited by Margie E. Burke accounts!!! COMPUTER GOTCHA STUCK? Difficulty: Easy Create and maintain Help is just a phone call away: a defensible space. Let Wy’East Computer Call today for pricing!!! Solutions proven software, HOW TO SOLVE: 503-806-2122 hardware, and networking Each row experience save must the day! JOE’S SCRAPPING. Thecontain area’s MOST TRUSTED the numbers Unwanted cars, trucks and COMPTIA1A+toCertified 9; each computer column supmotor homes. Free removal. port professional at the area’s contain the Put a little $ in your pocket. MOSTmust REASONABLE rates! Call Joe at 503-622-6392 No charge for idle1time numbers to 9;related and to downloads or running processes. each set of 3 by 3 CLIENT REFERENCES AVAILABLE. boxes must contain Call 503.622.9183 or Email ryan@wyeastcs.com the numbers 1 to TODAY! 9.
SUDOKU
ANIMALS Farm Cats. Natural Rodent Control. All neutered. Donations accepted. 503-816-7620 Beware of Puppy Mills Know where your puppy came from. If you or someone you care about has purchased a dog in a pet store or over the internet, it may be your puppy came from a Puppy Mill. If you think there may be a puppy mill in your community, call 1-877-MILL-TIP. If you are considering getting a pet, please consider adopting a pet from your local animal shelter, or choose a responsible breeder. NOTICE: People selling or giving animals away are advised to be selective about the new guardians. For the protection of the animal, a personal visit to the animals new home is recommended. Please remember to spay and neuter – prevent unwanted litters!
7 8 9 4 5 1 2 3 6 7 1 8 2 4 1 7 6 7 4 6 5 (Answer appears elsewhere in this issue) 8 for January 3 4 issue Classifieds Deadline is DECEMBER 18 6 or changes to tara@activemediausa.com 8Email your listings
Pest, insect and rodent control. Affordable, friendly, honest and efficient. Locally owned and operated since 2004. For an evaluation, call Glenn at 503-784-1669.
VACASA IS SEEKING SEASONAL HOUSEKEEPERS IN MT. HOOD AREA! Do you have a passion to create lasting vacation memories? We want to meet you! Pays $18/hour, PTO, Benefits based on hours worked, 401K with 6% match and more! $500 after working for 45 days $500 for hourly employees still employed on 4/13/24 For more details apply at www.vacasa.com/ careers or text 97211
CAROL’S COMPLETE CLEANING. Cleaning from Sandy to Government Camp since 1991. Specializing in Residential and Commercial. 503-622-1142
503-622-3289
CLASSIFIED RATES
Copyright 2023 by The Puzzle Syndicate
25 cents/word ($10 minimum) Bold Text: 35 cents/word ($10 minimum) $10 to include logo | $10 to include QR code $15 to include border | $25 to include color n Lost and Found and Free items placed with no charge, based on space availability.
Solutions fromtoPage 34 Solution Sudoku: Solutionto to Crossword Crossword: and Sudoku Rhody DQ is hiring 14+! Flexible schedules, no experience needed. Applications in-person or scan here:
M A L E V O D K A B O A T I K O N A U R A L A N N A D I S C O N T E N T S T O P S T O C K A D E I N S I D E R E S T S L E P E R A C D C O U T S E T P H I L O S O P H E R G M O R E G A L I A S E V E R A L E R E G R E G O R Y P E C K M A I D E N P E A S N E P A L O F T E N D R E S S A G E E N A B L E D U R A N D U R A N O A R S D R A I N S A N D R I S E S L E D S U L L Y E Y E S
7 8 5 2 9 3 1 4 6 9 1 6 8 4 5 3 2 7 4 2 3 6 7 1 9 5 8 3 7 1 4 5 8 6 9 2 2 4 8 9 1 6 5 7 3 6 5 9 3 2 7 4 8 1 1 9 2 7 3 4 8 6 5 5 6 7 1 8 9 2 3 4 8 3 4 5 6 2 7 1 9
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December 2023 — The Mountain Times
Transitions
Janet Clark Ross Berroth 11/2/1946–9/22/2023 Janet Clark Ross Berroth (88) passed away peacefully in the wee hours of the morning of August 29th, 2023, with her family lovingly by her side and the sound of bagpipes ushering her on to her heavenly resting place. Janet was born January 6th, 1935, to Julia Ross (nee Clark) (deceased, 1995) and Peter Ross, Sr. (deceased, 1971) in Glasgow Scotland. She has one elder brother, Peter Ross, Jr. (Bridget “Bridie” Ross; spouse) who currently reside in Glasgow Scotland. By a lucky twist of fate, Janet met her husband Edward Anthony Berroth, Sr (deceased, 1987) in Glasgow while he was serving in the US Army post World War II (Korean War). At the age of 18 years, Janet immigrated alone to the United States of America through Ellis Island in 1954 – an act of great courage! She first lived with Scottish relatives in New Jersey, residing briefly in Rhode Island before she and Edward moved to their home in Westford, Massachusetts. Janet and Edward went on to raise five children in Westford, fostering a lifetime of cherished memories for the whole family. Janet was a constant fixture in the lives of her children, frequently relocating to support her children and grandchildren. Over the years her devotion took her to California, Oregon and Missouri, enabling her extended family to cultivate rich and loving connections with her over the years. After the death of her second husband Jack Goerke (deceased, 2015), Janet relocated to Rhododendron, Oregon living out her last years in the loving care of her eldest daughter -Lynne
Berroth Ducharme, her son-in-law- David Ducharme and her grandson - Andrew Ducharme. Janet loved music. She played the piano in her youth, absolutely loved classic rock and roll music and you could always find her out on the dance floor. Janet never lost her distinctive Scottish brogue and was very proud of her heritage as a Highland Scot and a dignified member of the Ross Clan. Janet wore her crest, tartan, and lived her motto “Spem Successus Alit” (Success Nourishes Hope) until her last day. She would often share her love of “the old country”, heritage, and traditions with all whom she met and inspired many to connect with their own history. As an adult, she traveled many times to Scotland, ensuring that multiple generations of her Scottish family would maintain strong bonds with those of us in the US, ensuring a beautiful and extensive family history for all of us. Janet was adventurous, kind, loving, and fashionable! She had a special knack for style – always dressed to the “nines” even in her elderly years. She adored and lived for her children and grandchildren, exuding generosity and a willingness to give the shirt off her back to help her family. Janet will be greatly missed by her many children, their spouses/partners, her grandchildren and others whose lives she touched deeply. Edward Anthony Berroth Jr (son - deceased, 1998), Peggy Berroth (daughter-in-law), Kathleen Berroth (granddaughter), David Diehr (son-in-law), Jane Diehr (great granddaughter), Sean Berroth (grandson), Margeaux Berroth (granddaughter), Nick Pyle (son-in-law), Henrietta Pyle (great granddaughter), D. Peter Berroth (son), E Scott Phillips (son-in-law), Lynne Ducharme (daughter), David Ducharme (son-in-law), Andrew Ducharme (grandson), Scott Berroth (son), Yvonne Petito (daughter-inlaw), Kayla Berroth (granddaughter), Conner Berroth (great grandson), Austin Berroth (grandson), Brady Berroth (grandson), Kristin Robertson (daughter),
Brian Robertson (son-in-law), Kyle Robertson (grandson), Sabrina Cavender (daughterin-law), and Collin Robertson (grandson). Janet was a bold and courageous woman ahead of her time – risking all she knew to pursue love, freedom, and the American dream for which we are all grateful. A celebration of life will occur with details to be determined.
37
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Ronald Serman Whisenant 1948–2023
Ronald Serman Whisenant passed away September 24, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters, Shawn Grider and Milisa Dockry; and son, Michael O’Hara. Ron was born and raised in Glendale, California. He moved to Palmdale, California and purchased a small horse ranch. He vacationed in Oregon and had so much fun, we bought a house and settled in Sandy, Oregon A memorial service was held on November 11, 2023 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sandy. TRANSITIONS The Mountain Times accepts obituaries, birth announcements, engagements, weddings and other announcements. Residents of the Hoodland area and non-residents with significant ties to the mountain community may submit. There is no charge, but space is limited. Please email submissions to donovan@activemediausa.com
38
The Mountain Times — December 2023
Local News
Invasive Weed of the Month: English Holly the Oregon State Weed Board to be “injurious to public health, agriculture, recreation, wildlife, or any public or private property.” This regulatory designation limits the sale and distribution of a plant. Very few culturally and economically significant species receive the noxious weed designation. Although not listed as noxious, holly is widely recognized as an invasive plant in our region.
Winter frosts soften the berries and make them more tasty to birds and rodents who spread seeds in their droppings.
By Cathy McQueeney For The Mountain Times
English holly (Ilex aquifolium) is a popular evergreen frequently noticed during the month of December. Festive decorators and traditional songs abound, like “deck the halls with boughs of holly.” For many people, the shiny, dark green leaves and red berries of holly are reminders of the holiday season. This popular plant, however, is not native to Oregon. In fact, invasive holly can spread rapidly and degrade our natural areas. English holly is also known as Christmas holly or simply
“holly.” It is native to Western and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa, and Southwest Asia. It was brought to the United States as a landscape plant but quickly proved to be invasive. Now holly spreads along the west coast and into native forest habitat where it thrives in shade, crowding out native species. Because of the cultural significance of holly, it is actively cultivated in our region. It is not regulated as a state-listed noxious weed and it can legally be cultivated and sold within Oregon. The term “noxious” refers to weeds classified by
How Can I Identify English Holly? Holly is a large, slow growing evergreen, usually found as a shrub or small tree. It has woody stems and its leaves are 2-5 inches long and 1-3 inches wide. The oval, shiny leaves are dark green on the surface, lighter green underneath. Young leaves have three to five sharp spines on each side. Older leaves, and those found higher up in the tree, do not have spines. Flowers of English holly are white, small, and have a sweet scent. This makes them attractive to bees and other pollinators. Holly berries form on female plants in the fall and can be red, yellow, or orange. The berries contain ilicin, a bitter alkaloid, which
make them unpalatable and poisonous to people and pets. Winter frosts soften the berries and make them more tasty to birds and rodents who spread seeds in their droppings. Holly can also spread by suckering and layering. Why Should I Care About English Holly? Holly is naturalizing and spreading throughout our area. Coniferous forests are particularly susceptible to invasion. Holly competes with native shrubs and can suppress the natural regeneration of forest trees over time. Natural resource managers across the Pacific Northwest spend a lot of time and money to treat and control holly in an effort to preserve native forests. How Can I Control English Holly? Because of its invasive nature, Clackamas County property owners are encouraged to remove holly plants. Replace them with non-invasive alternatives whenever possible. The ”GardenSmart Oregon Guide to Non-Invasive Plants” lists many ornamental and native alternatives. These plants provide
Mt. Hood Village Cabins Available Discover serenity and breathtaking natural beauty in this enchanting area nestled amidst the majestic woods of the mountain for full time living or weekend getaways. With Mount Hood as your backdrop, endless outdoor adventures await. Explore the nearby hiking trails, witness cascading waterfalls or engage in thrilling winter or summer activities. This cabin’s prime location caters to all. Seize the opportunity to own a slice of mountain paradise, where the allure of nature intertwines effortlessly with modern comforts. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the serenity of your personal getaway on Mount Hood. This cabin is more than just a home, it’s an invitation to create cherished memories and embark on a lifelong love affair with nature.
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similar function and appearance. Clackamas SWCD encourages growers who are actively cultivating holly to consider phasing out production. This will help to protect your agricultural operations from losses if holly becomes listed as a noxious weed in the future. Remove holly when the plants are small, when they can be easily hand pulled or dug up. Be sure to remove all parts of the root to limit re-growth. Check the area regularly to remove any new sprouts. Removal of larger plants may not be feasible and could cause extensive soil disturbance and erosion. In this case, a cut-stem approach that uses a combination of mechanical and chemical control is more effective and may be less damaging to a site. For additional information on this approach, contact the District’s WeedWise program at 503-210-6000. Clackamas County residents interested in removing holly from their property may also check out one of the District’s tools from the Weed Tool Library free of charge. Happy Holidays and happy weed pulling!
$100,000
Office: 503-622-9094 Cell/Text: 925-980-0352 cindy@buymthood.com
Cindy Siwecki Principal Broker Mt Hood Village Realty Group
December 2023 — The Mountain Times
39
Local News
MHLC Connects ODFW with Vacasa to Support BearWise Mt. Hood Project
By Michelle M. Winner For The Mountain Times
Protecting our black bear population as an essential part of our ecosystem and co-existing with them is a crucial livability issue in preserving Mt. Hood’s natural beauty. Once bears become habituated to people through access to human food, they become a threat to human safety and ultimately face their demise. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) reports that human interactions with bears show a significant rise. Unsurprisingly, this rise correlates with the increasing number of non-resident guests. Many Short-
Term Rental (STR) owners and managers request that the guests put the trash out upon checkout. With a weekly pickup scheduled, garbage can sit out for days, attracting bears and other wildlife. Of the “STR garbage out too early” issue, Cheyenne
Bliss-Brown of Bliss Sanitary Service says, “Unfortunately, we haven’t found the best way. We advise that they have their cleaning crew, property manager, or anyone come to the property and put it out (on pick-up day). However, we haven’t had much success with that. If they are in active bear areas, we advise the homeowner to build a roadside enclosure to house their cans. Enclosures must be anchored to a cement pad to ensure the enclosure is not knocked over. Anything made out of wood or light plastic, the bear will shred.” Bliss offers commercial-style trash cans that their customers can get on loan from Bliss. Or purchase a Brute 32-gallon can at Home Depot, but, Cheyenne says, bears will rip open most so-called “bear-proof” cans that are plastic. The new STR Regulations for unincorporated Clackamas County mandate covering and securing garbage cans and a weekly pick-up. They don’t require bearproof cans. Residents are left to pick up and discard garbage on the roadside in front of vacant STRs. Clackamas County Commissioners
will not revisit this issue until the pilot program concludes in two years. Still, you can post a complaint and picture at https://mthoodlive.com to assist the Mt. Hood Livability Coalition (MHLC) in gathering data on neighborhood issues. The MHLC decided that STR guests, owners and managers needed to learn more about bear behaviors through education. They founded ODFW’s BearWise program, which offers free materials and information. MHLC proposed introducing the ODFW BearWise program to the Vacasa vacation rental management company in the Mt. Hood area. Vacasa’s Mt. Hood general manager, Crista Copoulos, was spearheading an offering of bear-resistant garbage cans to Vacasa owners for purchase and she
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welcomed MHLC’s invitation to network with the BearWise project and ODFW’s Assistant District Wildlife Biologist, Lindsey Sanders. Bearshaped fridge magnets with BearWise basics and flyers with bear-safety Vacation Tips will be placed in each of Vacasa’s 200 Mt. Hood rentals. The Mount Hood Livability Coalition is grateful to both parties for supporting livability in the Mt Hood area for the bears, residents and wildlife. It is a small first step but an important one. You can find bear information at https://bearwise.org. If you are a steel bear-proof box fabricator on the mountain, please contact MHLC at info@mthoodlive.com.
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