Since 2007, the TrailKeepers of Oregon have rallied volunteers to preserve and protect the thousands of miles of trails that run like veins across the Mt. Hood area. Now, a new grant from the Hood-Willamette Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) will propel the nonprofit to greater heights than previously dreamed.
In its nearly twenty years working on Oregon’s natural lands, Trailkeepers of Oregon has seen explosive growth. The organization, initially powered by volunteers, now has a staff of 15. Its impact can be felt in the Columbia River Gorge, Portland’s public parks, and the Mt. Hood area. The organization maintains a presence up and down the Oregon coast.
In recent months, the Hood-Willamette Resource Advisory Committee has pledged money to organizations across the mountain. One lucky recipient was the Trailkeepers of Oregon and their Stewardship and Ambassador program, an initiative designed to
Bigfoot Hunters Gather for Inaugural Mt. Hood Sasquatch Festival
By Justin Andress The Mountain Times
Between Friday, April 11, and Sunday, April 13, the team at Mt. Hood Oregon Resort will welcome Bigfoot hunters from around the world to the first-ever Mt. Hood Sasquatch Festival. For decades, the Mt. Hood area has entertained investigators who flock to our neck of Oregon in search of North America’s most popular cryptid, Bigfoot. To this day, the Mt. Hood area records more Bigfoot sightings than any other area in the state.
According to Lori Cabantoy, the
woman planning the Sasquatch Festival, the Sasquatch festival is an opportunity to solidify the area’s reputation as a cryptid capital. The three-day celebration will blend vendors, experts, activities and live music into an extravaganza where everyone is welcome, whether you believe in the paranormal or you need some convincing. Indeed, the deck of presenters is so stacked that even the cynical may find themselves giving their skepticism a second thought. Festival attendees can pay $40 for a three-day pass to presentations and discussions led by some of
the most prominent cryptid hunters in the United States. Joseph Granda is providing a preview of his upcoming film. Renowned paranormal expert and author Jeff Davis will also be on hand. Cliff Barackman, the owner and curator of the North American Bigfoot Center and former star of Finding Bigfoot, will also be leading a presentation.
Those aren’t the only people who will offer insight into the Sasquatch phenomenon. The lineup of cryptid experts continues to grow as the festival date approaches. Education and speculation are the order of the day. Still, Cabantoy wants to ensure that the Sasquatch Festival is accessible to anyone who wants to make the trip. An assortment of Pacific Northwest vendors will be on hand to offer any Sasquatch souvenirs you may need to remember your weekend at the festival. Presenters will also operate their own tables at the event so fans can speak with them one-on-one or purchase their latest offerings. There will be activities to occupy the kiddos, too. A kids’ area will have a coloring contest and lessons
See SASQUATCH Page 7
David Scott Parker: A Life of Dreams and Dedication
By Cynthia King
For The Mountain Times
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of David Scott Parker, who left us peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 13th. He is survived by his beloved wife, Robin, owner of Chicali Cantina in Welches; their daughters, Britney and Chelsey Parker;
his sister, Janice Parker and brother Merritt Pardini. David was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend.
Raised in Arcadia, California, David’s life was characterized by a readiness to explore new paths and a steadfast commitment to his family. As a young man, he worked in his fami -
ly’s machining business, cleaned pools, and even launched a fishing rod shop, designing a line of fishing lures. He attended several colleges, including California State University, Northridge, and Citrus College’s EMT program, where he met Robin Parker in 1988. Together, they pursued shared dreams with
Alder Creek, Brightwood, Cherryville, Firwood, Government Camp, Marmot, Mountain Air Park, Rhododendron, Sandy, Welches, Wemme, Wildwood and Zigzag
3–8PM |
IN THE ARRAH WANNA RENDEZVOUS CENTER
67149 East HWY 26 at Arrah Wanna Blvd
503.622.6837 | thevousgrill.com
Mountain Profile Mountain Profile
Alexandra Steinmetz
PLACE OF BIRTH? Scottsdale, AZ (but I have zero memories of AZ, and spent most of my life in Montana).
HOW LONG ON THE MOUNTAIN? 6 years.
IF YOU WERE NOT BROUGHT HERE AS A CHILD, WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAIN? My partner worked in the ski industry for 25 years, and a new opportunity brought us out here.
PROFESSION? Library Assistant at the Sandy and Hoodland Libraries.
OTHER PROFESSIONS? Co-owner of the Rendezvous, yoga instructor, digital marketer.
FAVORITE MOVIES? A League of Their Own. Newsies.
FAVORITE ACTRESS/ACTOR? Actor: Gary Oldman (is there nothing he can’t do?) and Nicholas Cage. Actress: Elizabeth Taylor, Jessica Chastain.
FAVORITE TV SHOWS? The New Girl, Veronica Mars.
FAVORITE BOOK? The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides.
FAVORITE TYPE OF MUSIC?I have an extensive record collection that covers all sorts of genres, so I like a bit of everything.
IF OFFERED A DREAM VACATION, WHERE WOULD YOU GO, AND WHY? I would really love to go back to Africa or take an adventure to Nepal and Northern India.
BEST LESSON LEARNED AS A CHILD? The importance of education (whether that be formal or informal). I love to learn and was always encouraged by my parents to constantly be learning.
DEFINING MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE OR YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT? Being content and happy with where I am now and who I am. That took a long time, and I put in the work and am proud of that.
A MEMORABLE DINNER? I took myself to The Fish House in Reykjavik, Iceland and spent a ton of money when I didn’t have it, and it was worth every penny.
A FUNNY MOMENT FROM YOUR LIFE THAT YOU CAN SHARE? I’m a walking pile of embarrassment. Most recently I tripped over my own pants in the middle of the street and face planted during “rush hour” in Sandy. That was lovely.
IF YOU COULD INVITE ANYONE (PAST OR PRESENT) TO DINNER, WHO WOULD IT BE, AND WHY? Zelda Fitzgerald, we’d have a great time.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE WORD? Energetic (to put it nicely).
WHEN YOU’RE NOT READING THE MOUNTAIN TIMES, WHAT BOOK/AUTHOR/ MAGAZINE/OTHER DO YOU READ? I get so many magazines and books from the library! I’m a big Vanity Fair reader, but I love Mother Earth News, and Hobby Farms Magazine as well. I read 60+ books a year, so I always have something I’m working on!.
IF YOUR LIFE WERE MADE INTO A PLAY OR MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE TITLE BE? Talking Too Fast.
PET PEEVE? People who lack awareness of their surroundings.
BAD HABIT YOU’D LIKE TO BREAK? Always choosing sleep if it’s an option.
FAMOUS PERSON(S) YOU HAVE MET, AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES? I worked in TV/Film so I have a few. But when Alexander Skarsgaard was just getting famous from True Blood I worked on a movie with him. I was on set one day and he was wearing a wig and fat suit and gave me a little hug and said “Alex, how are you?” and I didn’t recognize him. He’s truly the most lovely human being.
FAVORITE QUOTE? “With enough courage, you can do without a reputation.”
—Rhett Butler
FAVORITE PART OF THE MOUNTAIN TIMES? The Mountain Profile!
Community History
The Rise, Fall, and Revival of the Ivy Bear: A Highway 26 Landmark
By Gary Randall
For The Mountain Times
For decades, travelers along U.S. Highway 26 in Oregon have been greeted by an unusual roadside landmark — the towering Ivy Bear at Alder Creek. This massive, vinecovered structure has a history as unique as the man who built it. From its origins as a tribute to a beloved pet to its dramatic collapse and eventual revival, the Ivy Bear remains a cherished piece of Mount Hood history.
The Man Behind the Bear
The story of the Ivy Bear begins with Gerald Wear, a skilled craftsman, dog trainer, and builder who lived in Alder Creek, Oregon. Wear, who was deaf, was known for his ingenuity and love of animals. In addition to training German Shepherds, he took
care of a pet bear, one of two that he had, which he kept in a cage near the roadside. The bear entertained travelers who stopped along the two-lane highway, becoming an unofficial mascot of the area. However, as the story goes, the bear’s love for handouts — particularly candy bars, soda pop, and bottle caps — led to its untimely death. Heartbroken, Wear decided to honor his beloved bear by constructing a largerthan-life ivy-covered statue in its memory.
Building the Largest Ivy Structure in the World
In 1947, Wear began constructing the Ivy Bear. Using a wooden frame and chicken wire, he planted ivy around the structure, which eventually covered its entire surface. The project took more than a year to complete.
At the time, it was considered the largest ivy-covered structure in the world. Travelers passing through Alder Creek soon became accustomed to seeing the massive bear standing watch beside the road. Wear even added special touches to bring his creation to life — inside the bear was a rear door and scaffolding leading to its head. At night, he would climb inside and light up the bear’s eyes with candles, later replacing them with old Volkswagen taillights.
A Growing Landmark
Over the years, the Ivy Bear became more famous than the businesses on the property. Skiers heading to Mount Hood developed a tradition of saluting the bear for good luck. Wear continued to expand his creations, building houses and water wheels in the Alder Creek area.
In 1972, Wear passed away, but the Ivy Bear remained, standing as a testament to his creativity and craftsmanship.
June 1984: The Fall of the Ivy Bear
For nearly 40 years, the Ivy Bear stood tall. However, time and weather eventually took their toll. On June 18, 1984, a light breeze was all it took for the aging wooden structure to collapse. The bear lurched forward and landed on its massive tin snout. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the wooden beams supporting the ivy had rotted at the base.
Despite the relatively minor damage to its exterior, the bear could not stand on its own again. The loss of the Ivy Bear was felt throughout the community, with travelers slowing down or stopping along the highway to search for their missing roadside friend. Even the Portland Chamber of Commerce became involved, reaching out to the property’s owners in hopes of restoring the landmark.
A Community Effort to Bring Back the Bear
Recognizing the bear’s importance, local residents and organizations came together to bring it back. Ron Rhoades, owner of the Ivy Bear Restaurant, along with Michael P. Jones from the Cascade Geographic Society and the Friends of the Ivy Bear launched a fundraiser in 1987. Their mission: to rebuild the beloved structure.
By 1990, enough money had been raised to reconstruct the Ivy Bear. This time, it was built with a steel frame to ensure its longevity.
The Ivy Bear Stands Again
The revival of the Ivy Bear was met with excitement from the community. Once again, there was hope that it would stand proudly along Highway 26, welcoming travelers and serving as a nostalgic reminder of Oregon’s roadside history. Today, it stands as a landmark to visitors of Mount Hood and a tribute to Gerald Wear’s vision, craftsmanship, and love for animals.
Focus
Hoodland Firefighting Career Started as a Volunteer
By Ty Walker
Fire District in 2007 as a full time staff firefighter. A lieutenant for the past decade, he is responsible for setting the objectives for each emergency his fire crew faces.
Whether his crew gets called to fight a structure fire on the mountain, threatening people and property, or a vehicle crash with multiple
injuries on U.S. Highway 26, it’s his job to make sure the crew is ready to respond.
His career as a firefighter took root in Central Oregon, where he grew up on the family farm established by his grandfather in Culver in 1946, and which he still calls home. He started as a volunteer at Jefferson County Fire And EMS. He then became a paid staff member at the Warm Springs Fire
District 1 1//2 years before he was hired full time at Hoodland.
“I tried different things in college and I was struggling to find what I wanted to do,” Macy said. “Then I started volunteering and I liked the variety of calls, not knowing what to expect day to day. I liked the physical nature of it. I didn’t want to be stuck in an office.”
He left college and went back home to work on the farm. Around the same time, he thought he’d try volunteering at Jefferson County Fire.
He earned his firefighting and EMT certifications from Central Oregon Community College.
“I started volunteering and kind of fell in love with the fire service,” he said. “It’s exciting. You never know what you’re going to do from day to day. Your job kind of varies. No call is really the same. There’s always something different, something new.”
When he’s not fight -
ing fires or responding to medical calls, Macy enjoys being active in the great outdoors. He likes hiking, hunting, fishing and gardening. He occasionally lends a hand on the 2,000-acre Culver farm but leaves most of the work for his brother, uncle and cousin.
Now 46, he plans to work at Hoodland Fire District until he retires. He and his wife have two grown sons, ages 25 and 19. The younger one is following his father’s footsteps and pursuing a career in firefighting.
Macy said Hoodland Fire District, which has 11 full time staff members, is always looking for volunteers and students from its student program to help fill in the gaps. Ideally, he’d like to have four firefighters assigned to his immediate crew but funding constraints make that a challenge.
For more information about volunteering at the Hoodland Fire District, phone 503-622-3256.
Al Forno Keeps Sicilian Pizzeria Tradition Going Strong
By Ty Walker
Mountain Times
The
You’ve just spent the day skiing on the mountain. You’re driving down Highway 26. You’re tired and hungry. It feels like a pizza night.
But not just any old pizza will do. Authentic Sicilian pizza cooked in a hot wood-burning oven on a stone hearth? Your imagination can almost smell it.
You see the fire orange and yellow neon sign just ahead off the highway. It says, “Open.” There’s an unusual symbol of a three-legged woman on the sign. It beckons you like a moth to flame: you pull over and go inside.
You’re immediately immersed in the warm and friendly rustic mountain atmosphere that is Al Forno Ferruzza Pizzeria. The quaint Rhododendron restaurant has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike since it opened on the mountain in 2014.
That Medusa-like figure with three legs on the sign is the Trinacria, the symbol for Sicily. She is on the flag representing that particular island region in Italy. For the past 4 1/2 years, Robin Klein and Rubis Marks have carried on the traditions of the Ferruzza family by cooking hot, oven-baked pizza
in the Sicilian style. They learned the craft firsthand, working for the original Ferruzza father and son team for a couple of years before acquiring the business in 2020.
They are carrying on the legacy of the original Sicilian family, who opened the first Al Forno in Portland in 2009 before moving to the mountain. The current owners are making pizza in their signature style, while trying some new recipes along the way, particularly soups and salads.
“We have evolved,” Klein said. “We still maintain original recipes for the sauces and the style of cooking the dough which makes us so special. We have changed somewhat. We still have a lot of the favorites.”
“We still have a lot of the same items on the menu and have never changed what was taught to us by the Sicilian family who started it.”
Al Forno employs five cooks, including two from Italy that Klein considers master cooks. The restaurant has eight part-time employees in all.
“The cooking skills
for that oven are definitely artisan skills not everybody can learn,” Klein said. “It takes time to learn to be a solid cook. Even after years, they still are challenged because there are so many different parameters that go into making this quality of pizza.”
With such a variety of pizzas on the menu, it’s hard to say which are most popular. Pepperoni with ricotta cheese and arugula has always been a long-standing favorite. The owner says the Caprese pizza is delicious. For something sweet and unusual, try the pear pizza with walnuts, feta cheese, maple drizzle and garlic.
Al Forno is fast becoming popular with the vegan crowd. The roasted beet pizza can’t be beat.
All dough is vegan and hand tossed or rolled, and baked into the one-size 16-inch thin crust pizza pies.
“We let our signature recipes do the talking,” Klein said. “All of our sauces are vegan inherently. They don’t have any dairy. The pesto and tomato sauces, the rustic
house sauces – we rely on the veggies.”
For a traditional Italian dessert, the tiramisu, made in-house with no egg, is recommended. It’s in such high demand that they run out of it all the time.
The cozy confines of the dining area, which seats less than 50, provides an intimate family friendly (and dog friendly) atmosphere. Rustic decor and the wood stove give it a mountain cabin vibe.
In the summer when the back patio opens, the seating capacity more than doubles. On occasional weekends yearround, Al Forno has live music acts.
Klein enjoys meeting
the lively international clientele that visits the restaurant.
“I love interacting with all the customers,” she said. “It’s wonderful hearing the tales of people coming in and out from all over the world. Being right on the highway, I feel like we’re a port of call. Where we’re located, it’s cool.”
Al Forno Ferruzza is located at 73285 US-26, Rhododendron, OR 97049 Hours are Monday through Thursday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, phone 503-6221212.
Hoodland Firefighters Aid in Historic California Wildfires
By Justin Andress
The Mountain Times
In January, a devastating series of fires scorched the hills that surround Los Angeles. As a result of the blaze, firefighters from across the West Coast raced to the area to lend a hand. Among those called to duty were two of Hoodland’s bravest, Division Chief Brian Henrichs and Engineer Pat McAbery.
As we explained in the February edition of The Mountain Times: “A total of 21 strike teams [from the area] were mobilized to California, bringing with them 75 fire engines, 30 water tenders, and 370 firefighters to support fire suppression efforts.” Henrichs and McAbery were charged with delivering water tender 351, a truck capable of hauling 3,000 gallons of water.
According to the Oregon Department of Emergency Manage -
ment, the deployment dispatched “97 fire agencies, 370 personnel, and 105 engines.” The effort was part of the largest mobilization since Oregon’s first responders began traveling to other states as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) of 2017.
After a two-day drive with their water tender loaded down, Henrichs and McAbery were eager to lend a hand. When asked whether or not taking these calls was scary, McAbery confirmed that fear didn’t enter the equation. He explained that his and Henrich’s “fire brains” might work a little differently. “That’s why we’re here, and that’s what we wanna go do,” he says.
While a firefighter’s job is built on the unknown, one surprise that caught the team off guard was the time of year the fire
started. “I don’t think anybody expected in January that we would be going to California,” explained Henrichs. “It’s typically their off season.”
Henrichs adds that while they’ve been called on to directly fight fires in the past, during their most recent trip, they were charged primarily with making sure there was enough water on hand to drown the flames.
Simply being on-site was a challenge for the firefighters. The same winds that spread the fires so rapidly blew at a sustained 30-40 miles per hour for days on end. Henrichs laughs as he recalls, “You were either standing in the wind getting pelted by sand or dirt, or you just sat in your vehicle [to stay out of it].”
While dodging flying dirt and sand, on-site personnel took opportunities to undertake training sessions every morning.
Hoodland firefighters like McAbery and Henrichs were uniquely suited to aid in extinguishing the fires that plagued the greater Los Angeles area because of the array of skills required for their job. As members of a community that straddles the border between an urban area and a wildland area, Hoodland firefighters are trained to handle the enormous variety of different situations
they encounter on a typical shift.
McAbery explains that when it comes to wildland and structural firefighting, “The only thing that’s the same is that something’s actually burning, but the tactics of strategies, the time frame … everything is different.”
Strategy is a critical part of any massive firefighting endeavor like this. Not just the strategy employed on the front lines, but the lessons exchanged between firefighters from different outfits during their downtime.
Henrichs says, “We took a lot of opportunities when we were down there at the mobilization center to talk to other crews and see what they’re doing. I think Pat and I are always looking for ways to improve and make our apparatus and our crews more efficient, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel when somebody else already has it down.”
This communication between departments has more than just academic implications, though, as McAbery explains that personnel from different local departments are frequently called to travel long distances and handle the same fires. During these moments, firefighters from the same city have the opportunity to work together, often for
the first time.
“You go and spend a couple days or a couple of weeks with these folks and you get to know them pretty well. And then when the next big incident happens locally and these other departments show up, you know these people already.”
For firefighters like McAbery and Henrichs, a trip to another site to help fight a fire is also an opportunity to improve their responsiveness when they’re on home turf.
Ultimately, the rash of fires were put out thanks
to the efforts of Henrichs, McAbery, and the veritable army of firefighters who descended on Los Angeles to help. Still, the damage left in the fires’ wake was catastrophic.
Estimates put the total destruction of the fires at more than $250 billion. Over the course of the disaster, more than 15,000 structures were damaged, 150,000 people were driven from their homes, and 28 lost their lives. AccuWeather’s Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter declared it the costliest wildfire in modern US history.
Making Memories at Marmot Recreation Site
By
On the way to Mt. Hood Recreation Area, along Route 26 eastbound, there is a sign for Sleepy Hollow Drive. Take a left hand turn here and cross over a bridge spanning the Sandy River. A quick left hand turn will put you at the eastern end of Marmot Drive. Here is
where we have passed, time and time again, the sign that states Marmot Recreation Site is only seven miles away. It took us over three years to venture westbound on Marmot Drive and discover a few short and simple trails, fishing access spots, and the Marmot Bridge at the Marmot Recreation Site. This area is frequently referred to as the Marmot
Dam Area, but the dam was removed in 2007, allowing the Sandy River to flow freely from Mt. Hood to the Columbia River. When the dam was removed, it represented the greatest release of sediment from any U.S. Dam removal at that time (Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 2024). The removal of the dam also improved the water flow for rafting trips, which you can watch from the shores alongside the river, or from the bridge above during the spring and early summer seasons.
Marmot Recreation Site is a perfect park to have a spring picnic, a summer stroll, or to view migrating salmon in the fall. There are vault toilets available, ample parking, and views of the Marmot Bridge from several angles. We love sitting in the grassy area soaking up sunshine
before walking along the river. Bring your furry friends for this stop: there is plenty of room for them to run (on leash) as well as options where they can find their way to the Sandy River for a refreshing drink or dunk.
A short out-and-back trail accompanies our afternoons off the beaten path, which starts at the Marmot Bridge and winds through the forest a half mile to its end. We love stopping to look at the sword ferns, beaked moss, or different mushrooms that grow along the trails. At the end of the path you can follow a 50 foot social trail down the hill to a small river access spot. Seeing the Sandy River rounding the bend here made us stop in our tracks and stare at the fast and furious flowing waters coming down from the mountain.
Marmot Recreation
Site is part of the Bureau of Land Management and does require a day pass to visit. We have been several times since our first visit in 2023. As with so many people in the Mt. Hood area, we wonder why it took us so long to find this spot while also being thankful that we live somewhere that we are lucky enough to be able to
access same. There are so many spots just around a corner or down a dirt road to explore. There are endless opportunities to get outside here, where nature welcomes us. The rowdy rivers run and the evergreen forests foster our sense of belonging and connection to ourselves, each other, and the world that surrounds us.
Danella Demary
For The Mountain Times
Community
Small but Mighty: Welches Middle School Girls’ Basketball Team Shines This Season
By Marie Kennedy
The Mountain Times
The Welches Middle School girls’ basketball team has been making a name for itself this season, lighting up the court with skill, determination, and teamwork.
Despite being the smallest middle school in the district and regularly facing teams with significantly larger student populations, the Welches girls have more than held their own. Their resilience and competitive spirit have made for an interesting and exciting season.
The team is composed of nine dedicated players
SASQUATCH
From Page 1
for tracking Bigfoot on his home territory. Kids aged 10 and under even receive free admission to the Sasquatch Festival.
The Resort is also working with a tattoo artist to give interested attendees fresh tattoos. There will also be a competition to determine who has the best existing Bigfoot ink. “Anyone who has an existing tattoo of Bigfoot, we’re going to take a picture of it and allow people to vote on it, and then the winner is going to get a free night’s stay.”
The Mt. Hood Oregon Resort will also provide
— three eighth graders, three seventh graders, and three sixth graders — blending experience with fresh talent. This balanced mix has allowed them to develop strong chemistry on the court, with older players leading by example and younger athletes stepping up to contribute.
Head coach Todd Dejong has been impressed with the team’s technical skills and overall gameplay.
“We’re seeing lots of fast breaks, quick layups. They’re doing a great job of all that, and their pivoting has really improved,” he said. “They’re moving well
when they catch the ball, and that’s been great to see.”
He continued, “It’s been a tough season with illnesses and injuries, but they’ve continued to push through and play hard.”
Assistant coach Mel Mutterspaugh echoed Dejong’s praise, emphasizing the team’s dedication. “They work so hard in practice and give it everything they’ve got in games,” Mutterspaugh said. “It is a lot of fun, watching these girls play. Their energy and determination are contagious.”
By the time this story is published, the middle
school basketball season will have wrapped up for the year, but the future looks bright for Welches basketball. While the eighth graders will move on to play at the high school level, a fresh wave of players will step up to carry on the team’s legacy. Next season promises to be just as exciting, with fast-paced action and plenty of heart. If you haven’t been to a game yet, it’s worth checking out — these girls play with intensity, skill, and a passion that makes every game thrilling to watch. Never a dull moment — these girls are serious.
meals from its in-house restaurant, Altitude, and live entertainment to people who want to accentuate their Bigfoot fun with good music and high-quality cuisine.
“We don’t want to cut off normal guests or the community from coming in and shopping the vendors or doing a meet and greet. Our Saturday night meal is being changed to an all-resort barbecue. Everyone who wants to come can come. We’re going to have live music. It’s going to be a party.”
In other words, locals who might spend their
weekends at Altitude won’t have to change their plans between April 11 and April 13. They’re welcome to enjoy the revelry with festivalgoers. Anyone who has dined at Altitude knows there’s never a bad reason to eat there. Having the opportunity to chat about Bigfoot is just icing on top of an already delicious cake.
The Resort is also offering a special room rate during the event when visitors book a two-night stay. It’s the perfect getaway for both out-of-towners and locals who want a night away from home. Act fast, though, because Cabantoy says, “I know people
are coming from all over for this event already. It’s super exciting.”
The Resort is a great place to spend some time that weekend whether you’re a Bigfoot fan or you love a Bigfoot fan. Lori explains that one guest traveling to the event plans to let her partner soak up the knowledge while she gets a treatment at the resort spa or explores some of the shopping venues, hikes, and restaurants available on Mt. Hood.
For more information, visit the Mt. Hood Resort website, and stay tuned for updates as this one-ofa-kind gathering nears.
VIEW FROM THE MOUNTAIN
From the publisher’s desk
HELLO MOUNTAIN TIMERS,
Recently, I sent out a questionnaire to those connected with us on Nextdoor. com here on the mountain. Some responses appeared concerned that our paper might be facing financial challenges or that we were considering shifting to an all-digital format, discontinuing the printed edition. I’d like to take a moment to clarify — right here, in bold black and white — that your local paper is doing just fine and will continue to be printed every month, just like it has been for years.
We are fortunate to have the continued amazing support of both our community and local businesses and organizations, who generously advertise
CORRECTION FROM THE PUBLISHER
In our January edition of The Mountain Times, a Letter to the Publisher regarding the Hoodland Fire Department and the new Hoodland Fire Station was incorrectly attributed to Pat Buckley Rykh. The letter was, in fact, written by Shirley Morgan.
We sincerely regret the error and appreciate Shirley’s contribution to the discussion. Below is her latest Letter to the Publisher.
I agree with Steve Graper’s article in the February Mt. Times regarding the importance of all homeowners making it a priority to help secure their property against wildfires. Using the Oregon Department of Forestry risk assessments, which were included in their packets sent by certified mail, is a wise option.
It is clear however that Mr. Graeper is not aware of the property value impacts that these wildfire high risk maps have created. Homeowners across Oregon are receiving non-renewal letters from their insurance companies. In my case I received a 55% increase in my annual homeowner policy, with a notation that it was being increased due to wildfire risk, all while my home is located 100 ft off of Hwy 26 and just one mile from the Hoodland Fire Department – yet my property has been tagged as a high wildfire risk. In contacting over 15 nationwide well-known insurance companies asking for a quote, they all refused to insure my property because of the designation of high wildfire risk.
While Mr. Graeper is busy trimming up his trees, I will be busy attending an
in each issue. They are helping to fully cover our production costs and we have no intention of altering how we produce the paper. As long as we continue delivering a product that serves our local community, we trust that these groups will continue to support us, and our readers will keep enjoying physical copies of the paper while supporting those businesses. Ultimately, this is a reflection of the strength of our community and how well we come together. I feel truly grateful to be a part of this wonderful place and honored to contribute to providing the best local newspaper we can.
For those of you who are interested, here is the question I posed online. If you’re so inclined, please feel free to respond to me at matt@ mountaintimesoregon.com with your answer. I would love to hear what you have to say. We will look to publish some of your responses in our next issue, which of course will be in its traditional printed form for everyone to enjoy.
Hello Mountain Timers!
If you enjoy receiving the Mountain Times Newspaper each month, I’d love your help. I’m working with a new business here on the mountain, and they’re curious about how the community feels about the Mountain Times. If you’re open to sharing your thoughts, could you let me know what you enjoy about our paper? Also, in your opinion, why do you think a print publication like ours continues to thrive in today’s digital world?
Thank you so much for your time!
Matthew Nelson
Your Publisher, The Mountain Times.
If you have an idea for a story, have a classified, milestone 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.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
appeal hearing with the Oregon Department of Forestry. I hope others who are concerned about their property values, insurance rates, and insurance availability, will file an appeal and let ODF know that this is not acceptable. March 10, 2025 is the deadline.
Shirley Morgan, Rhododendron
Dear Mountain Community,
The Mt. Hood Livability Coalition (MHLC), your local non-profit working to restore livability in our area, invites you to visit our website mthoodlive.com to read and comment on two important local issues.
On Short Term Rentals, we offer an honest “boots on the ground” assessment of the two-year STR Pilot program after one year, and request a meeting with Clackamas County Commissioners.
Click the Fire Prevention button on our site for an outstanding article and video on the AntFarm’s Community Wildfire Defense Program by Oregon Public Broadcasting OPB/ Oregon Field Guide reporter-producer and Emmy-winning, Ian McCluskey.
Sincerely,
The MHLC Board Peter, Doug, Matt and Michelle
My name is Cliff Fortune and I would like to request your support for the Hoodland Fire Department’s upcoming bond election for a new main station.
The current station was built in 1966 and has been added onto many times. The building as it stands has been deemed by Associated Consultants, Inc. as not seismically sound, meaning it will not survive a large earthquake. This could potentially destroy all our emergency vehicles and equipment just when we need them most. In addition, the current station does not provide sleeping quarters for our responders. Currently, our overnight responders are housed in an old “job shack” behind the station with no bathroom facilities. There are many other reasons this building is obsolete, most revolving around safety, space and future needs.
The bond would provide for a new station to be built on the “Dorman Property” across from Welches Middle School. The property is valued at approximately one million dollars and will be donated to the Fire District by Clackamas County, provided the bond is approved. This would free up the current station to be sold to offset the cost of the new station.
Some have asked why we don’t remodel the current station. The leadership has studied this question and determined that the cost of doing a remodel would nearly equal the cost of a new station and in the end we would have an inferior building that wouldn’t have the life expectancy of a new building. A large part of the expense of remodeling would be for temporary quarters while the construction occurs and remediating asbestos and other dangerous materials. These costs would add nothing to the final product.
I would appreciate your support for the bond. If you have any questions you can
contact me at 971-533-3167 or call the fire station at 503-622-3256.
Thank you,
Cliff Fortune Hoodland FD #74 Board of Directors
As a retired Firefighter with 26 years’ experience, I fully support the construction of a new fire station for Hoodland Fire District #74. In May of 2025 this issue will be placed upon the ballot of voters in the Hoodland Fire District jurisdiction. I hope you will consider passing this general obligation bond for the following reasons.
The existing main station was built in 1966 as a twelve-hour station to house fire response units and support the response times of an all-volunteer staff. It was not meant at that time to have the quarters for sleeping units. The station and district have evolved over time, and it is now staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week with eleven full-time, and thirty volunteer firefighters. The present station has been remodeled at least three times, with many problems that still exist ie; asbestos, detached sleeping quarters, poor ventilation, decontamination challenges, ADA compliance. Studies have shown the cost to remediate the existing problems within the present location, would total as much or more than building a new station on the Dorman property. The advantages of having a new station built are:
A better-equipped station can mitigate the impact of fires and emergencies, ultimately saving lives and property. Utilizing the Dorman property (which Clackamas County has donated to the project)
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avoids the additional costs and delays associated with acquiring new land, thus making it a more financially sound option.
As our community expands, a new, larger fire station ensures that emergency services are future-ready, and will include a larger community room. The new facility will incorporate modern technologies, ensuring it remains efficient and adaptable for another 60 plus years.
Transforming the Dorman property into a vital community asset contributes to more responsible and efficient land management and will include the continuous use of the community garden space. This modern fire station will incorporate advanced technologies, improved design, and efficient workflows that enable quicker mobilization and better coordination during emergencies. The new facility will reduce maintenance costs and energy consumption over time.
Replacing the outdated and unsafe fire station is not just a matter of modern infrastructure; it’s a commitment to protecting our community and ensuring that our emergency services can respond effectively when needed. By investing in a new facility on the Dorman property and passing the bond, you are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding lives and properties.
Respectfully,
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CONTRIBUTORS
Pat Erdenberger, Carianne Stearns, Cathy Lavin, Milt Fox, Robert Kelly DMD, Lisa Kilders, Dr. Melanie Brown DC, Rep. Jeff Helfrich, Lloyd Musser, Gary Randall, Kendra Payne, Ginny Thompson, Megan Nugent, Cassie Kanable, Steve Wilent
PO Box 1031, Welches, OR 97067 503.570.3404
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.
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The Mountain Times is an associate member of ONPA
John W Drake Jr., Hoodland FD #74 Director
Inside Salem Legislator’s Letter
An Update from Rep. Jeff Helfrich
As the 2025 Legislative Session progresses, several key issues have emerged. There are those topics we have been discussing for months now, and yet every session has its issues that catch you by surprise. One notable piece of legislation that falls under the latter, and which would have significant impact on
the district, is House Bill 3140, which aims to restore liability waivers for Oregon’s recreation and fitness industries. Luckily, this bill also serves as an example of what good bipartisan solutions can look like. It’s for that reason I want to highlight it, in this month’s piece. HB 3140 would once again allow Oregon busi-
nesses to require participants to sign waivers releasing operators from claims of ordinary negligence. It would allow these waivers for individuals engaging in sports, fitness, or recreational activities. This bill has become necessary because legal challenges have undermined these protections, exposing businesses to increased
litigation risks and financial uncertainties. This bill was introduced by my colleague from the Springfield area, Representative John Lively (D), and it has bipartisan support in both chambers.
As I testified in committee, the district includes two of the most iconic and recreational regions of the state, The Gorge and Mount Hood, home to hiking, windsurfing, paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, and many other forms of recreation and fitness. Passing this legislation would be about protecting Oregon’s recreational economy and the activities that all of us who live in the area, as well as all Oregonians and visitors to our corner of the state,
enjoy.
A key reason for this bill is to align Oregon’s policies with those of other states. Currently, all of our neighboring states permit the use of these waivers in those industries, providing businesses with a level of legal protection that we are lacking here in Oregon. These discrepancies place us at a competitive disadvantage, potentially deterring businesses from operating within our state.
By reinstating those protections, we could provide some clarity to our legal framework, but we would also foster a more business-friendly environment. Most of our fitness and recreation operators are small businesses, often run by
MOUNTAIN VENUES with MENUS
families and non-profits operating on thin margins. If they fail, we all lose out.
As this session continues, HB 3140 should set an example for what good legislation and good bipartisan work can look like. Focusing on fostering a business-friendly Oregon and promoting measures endorsed by both sides of the aisle should be the norm, not the exception. Do you agree?
As always, if you have any questions or concerns call or email my office. If you happen to be in Salem during Session, swing by H-371, and my staff and I will do our best to fit you into our schedule.
Mountain Representative Jeff Helfrich keeps the community updated with an exclusive look at the legislative process.
“Friends of Timberline” Documentary to Air on OPB
By Amber Ford
The Mountain Times
Throughout its 87 years of operation, Mt. Hood’s Timberline Lodge has remained a popular tourist destination, prompting individuals from all walks of life to engage in its historic and legendary lodge while enjoying the pearly white frosted slopes. While its staff works relentlessly to maintain the look, feel and overall vibe of its historic uniqueness, the nonprofit organization, Friends of Timberline, has been a fixture and compelling force in securing the lodge’s pristine historical presence on Mt. Hood for the last 50 years.
As the continued partnership between The Mt. Hood National Forest, Timberline Lodge and Friends of Timberline has evolved and grown
over the last several years, The Oregon Public Broadcasting network is featuring this most unique relationship in a special which will air in March on O.P.B. [Oregon Public Broadcasting].
According to past Friends of Timberline President Michael Gentry, the piece will focus on the history of the relationship between the lodge and the organization and its significant projects and contributions. “2025 is FOT’s 50th anniversary.” Gentry said. “FOT commissioned Bridge City Video to create the video for FOT’s use. One of the desired uses was an airing on OPB. FOT reached out to OPB and after viewing it, OPB agreed that it was of the type and quality to be featured on OPB,” Gentry added.
Timberline Lodge’s legacy has prompted
many filmmakers, television shows and even previous OPB documentaries in the past, but this one will mark a significant showcase to Friends of Timberline’s organization and their continued dedication to the historical preservation of the lodge. According to Gentry, the episode airing on OPB will focus on why their nonprofit was created and the importance of maintaining this most unique relationship. “The episode will show archival historic interviews with the individuals who conceived of the idea of forming FOT and who were involved in creating it,” Gentry said. “It will also contain discussions by various involved FOT Board members and staff on a number of the significant projects such as the Winter Entrance Project,
the Light up the Art Project and the Amphitheater Project,” Gentry added. While Timberline Lodge continues to remain vigilant in their preservation of the overall historic aesthetic of the lodge and its importance in Oregon and national history, Friends of Timberline hopes this documentary on their organization will help the public understand why such a relationship is important. “This is a chance for the viewing public to see and appreciate Friends of Timberline’s contributions to the look and feel of the Lodge and the need to continue that process,” Gentry said.
OPB will air the special on Friends of Timberline in March. To find episode dates and times please visit opb.org
Meet the Artist: Tom McGraw
By Amber Ford
Mountain Times
The
Long time Mt. Hood Villages resident and local artist Tom McGraw has become a staple within the art community with his creative collective works and unique pieces. Inspired by his love for travel, McGraw sees the beauty in the many places he’s visited. “I’ve travelled
all throughout Western Europe, Mexico, Canada and Central America,” McGraw said. “During my travels I was inspired by museums, churches, various cities, people, athletics, music, landscapes, architecture and dive bars. Basically, I entrenched myself in the different cultures,” McGraw added. A self taught artist,
ent canvases and paper, but also hat design and wood sculpting as well. “I am currently working on a wood carving totem pole and also enjoy doing landscape art as well,” McGraw said.
While McGraw’s self taught techniques are an important part of the artist he is, studying the classics and the pieces that have transformed art history are also an important piece of his identity as a creator. “I’m inspired by the old masters like Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet,” McGraw said. “I also follow new artists, like Justin Bua and other artists on Instagram. Also one of our own locals - Seaberg Einarsson,” McGraw added.
McGraw’s work is created in a variety of different ways. “I create paintings using mediums like ink, watercolor, acrylic, oil, gesso, wood stains and polyurethane,” McGraw said. “I also work on wood canvases and high quality watercolor paper,” McGraw added. McGraw’s demonstrations of his skill are not only seen on the differ -
Like his artistic peers, sharing the majestic and pristine views that residents enjoy daily in The Mt. Hood Villages, McGraw also finds his unique neighborhood to be a valuable source of inspiration for his creative visions. “Every day here on the mountain is scenically different,” McGraw said. “I take bits and pieces of my experiences and work them into painting,” McGraw added.
For anyone interested in viewing or purchasing McGraw’s work you can visit his Instagram account, tomm2316. McGraw welcomes messages and inquiries about the purchase of his current work and commissioned pieces as well.
Community News
keep trails maintained and hikers informed.
Matt Ruddy, Trailkeepers of Oregon’s Equity and Engagement Manager, took some time out of his busy schedule to talk about the future of their efforts in the area.
As its name might suggest, the Trailkeepers’ Stewardship and Ambassador program is a two-pronged approach to preserving Mt. Hood’s trails.
Ruddy explains that the “Stewardship Program focuses heavily on trail maintenance, trail sustainability, and—when it’s needed—new trail development and new trail building.” The program is made up of individuals with extensive backgrounds in landscaping, carpentry,
and trail building. Of course, there’s always room for those with eager spirits but little practical experience.
For those people, there’s TKU or Trailkeepers University. This program creates what Ruddy calls “intentional situations” that allow people to learn the skills they need to maintain trails throughout the state.
“It’s a chance to really go into a lab and do it over and over again so that muscle memory and learning take hold,” he says.
In fact, it was one of TKU’s chainsaw courses that first drew Ruddy to the organization. Ruddy says he was blown away by “not just the safety briefing that they gave, but the accountability agree -
MOUNTAIN
ment about how we choose to interact with each other as human beings. [The course] made a very specific note of a land acknowledgment for the land that we had the privilege of being on … for me, as a person of color, [the course] gave me a sense that this is the kind of training, this is the kind of organization, this is the kind of place where I feel seen and heard and allowed to speak up if something isn’t landing well with me.”
As an organization, Trailkeepers certainly understands the privilege of exploring and working in the natural areas around Mt. Hood. In fact, they take great efforts to ensure that everyone in the community—not just team members—appreciates the history and bounty of our region. Enter the
Trailkeepers’ Ambassador Program.
The Ambassador Program is designed to spread education to those visiting the parks and forests. For example, one part of the Ambassador Program involves running informational tables placed at the beginning of the trailhead. These tables
have various materials, including, among other things, printed maps of the state’s extensive trail system.
Ambassadors focus on letting hikers know what’s in store for them on the trail ahead. They also pass along information on leave-notrace principles and prep overnight campers to enjoy Mother Nature responsibly by teaching them how to look for established campsites and spot (and report) dumping grounds.
There’s even an Ambassa-Dog program, in which well-behaved pups can serve as an example of how to behave when exploring our state’s parks. There’s even a bandana uniform so your dog can show off to other hikers (and hikers’ dogs) they might encounter on the trail.
Ambassadors are also responsible for solitude monitoring. That is, they walk the lesser-used trails in
Oregon’s backcountry to look for signs of use, litter, and maintenance levels. Ruddy says these exercises “allow us to have helpful eyes and ears in the forest.”
In the coming months, the Hoodland-Willamette RAC grant funds will be funneled toward hiring 10 part-time interns between 18 and 22 who will get practical experience in trail maintenance and public relations.
When discussing Trailkeepers’ goals, Ruddy is clear-eyed: “What we can do is increase the amount of available information about trails and hikes and different naturebased areas that are accessible to as many people as possible.”
That gargantuan effort will play a part in preserving Oregon’s natural beauty for generations to come.
RECIPE Shrimp
with Polenta Ingredients
Directions Polenta
Whisk water, cornmeal, salt and bay leaf in saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring bottom and sides often.
Reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally until thickened, about 40 minutes.
Remove and cover.
Shrimp
Heat oil, garlic and red pepper in deep skillet over mediumlow heat. Stir occasionally until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add wine. Bring to a simmer over medium-high; stir occasionally until reduced by half. Add stock. Return to simmer. Simmer for 3 minutes.
Add shrimp, zest and salt. Cook until shrimp are slightly opaque, about 4 minutes.
Stir in butter and half the parsley. Once butter melts, remove from heat. Cover and steam shrimp until just cooked, about 2 minutes.
Divide polenta among bowls; top each with shrimp and sauce. Garnish with rest of parsley.
Mt. Hood History
Museum Chatter: Which Mt. Hood Ski Area was Developed First?
By Lloyd Musser For The Mountain Times
The planners of Timberline Lodge never intended for everyone to drive their automobiles to the front door of the lodge. The plan, modeled on European mountain lodges, was for visitors to be ferried to the lodge by shuttle bus. The access road ran gently on the land: narrow, with curves and very slow travel speed. The plan did not work from the start. People would not ride the bus, even if it was free; they wanted to arrive by car.
A skier named Dodson had the idea for a tram to move skiers from Government Camp to Timberline soon after the lodge opened in 1937. It took him 10 years to find some like-minded partners and in 1947, a permit was issued from the US Forest Service. The Mount Hood Aerial Transportation Company was formed with Dodson, Dr. Otto George, and A.L. Greenwalt. Dr. George was the eternal optimist: he had some money, he loved the mountain and had a medical clinic in Government Camp,
complete with an x-ray machine to treat ski injuries. Mr. Greenwalt was retired from Dun and Bradstreet so knew a thing or two about finances. The tram would cost $300,000.. They sold shares to 443 skiers at $10 per share and raised $350,000.00. Another board member was a guy named Hoover, who just happened to own Mt. Hood Stages; Hoover was president and manager of Pacific Trailways bus companies.
The tram would be 3.1 miles in length and would rise 2000 vertical feet. Pointer and Willamette, a logging equipment manufacturer, would supply the skyhooks that traditionally supported cables hauling logs – now they would support people. The skiers would ride in city buses suspended on the fixed cables. The primary reason they wanted to use buses was the fact that board member Hoover was in the bus business. He thought it was a sound idea mechanically and pointed out the potential marketing draw of a flying bus!
In July of 1948 they started clearing the right of way at the lower end of the tram’s route. After cutting trees on the first 200 feet, some alert worker blew the whistle, noting that the clearing was not headed, as planned, for the lodge. The Forest Service forced the company to hire a surveying firm to stake the right of way from the lodge to the base of the tram.
While this was going on, the Forest Service took a closer look at the plans and discovered the clearance from the bottom of the bus to the ground was only 12’ to 14’ in places. A sarcastic letter to the company said they assumed the plan was for the bus to act as a snowplow when snow depth exceeded 12 feet. The Forest Service wanted to know how the company was going to prevent skiers from skiing into the lanes created by the tram bus, since there would not be enough clearance between the bottom of the bus and the snow, creating an unacceptable hazard to the public. That got the company’s attention and they redesigned the system. They added eight more towers ranging from 40’ to 72’, bringing the total to 38 towers. They also added two more braking cables to enable them to run two buses at the same time.
Nothing in the plans allowed for the buses to pass each other, though, so the plan was to run them both in the same direction, staying 10
towers apart. Think about this idea: the goal was to move people efficiently. But in this iteration of the plan, one bus would leave, followed by the second bus departing when the first bus was only about 1/3 of the way up to the Lodge. Now both buses are going in the same direction, so the first bus needs to wait at Timberline until the second bus arrives, at which time they can both return to the base, staying 10 towers apart. A full cycle would take an hour, so you are moving only 120 people per hour!
Meanwhile, the Forest Service had been hard at work on the Timberline transportation issue. Just in time for the 1949-1950 ski season, they opened the newly constructed and paved road to Timberline Lodge, enabling a car load of skiers to reach Timberline in 15 minutes. The tram company had planned to open for that 1949-1950 ski season but didn’t meet their deadline.
The tram finally opened Jan 3, 1951. Tickets were .75 for a one-way ride. The shuttle bus was .50 and could travel the new road faster than the tram could climb to the lodge. With those statistics, how many people do you think would ride the tram?
The “Mount Hood Skiway” was a self-propelled vehicle (bus), riding on 4 fixed track ropes. Each bus had two gas-powered 185 hp engines each. Why they did not build a conven-
tional reversible tram with two cabs, where one cab ascends the mountain and the other descends simultaneously is unknown. Likewise, why not put the power in the lower terminal and use haul back lines? Instead, they elected to have the buses climb under their own power by reeling in traction cable at the front and unreeling it out the back. Pulleys on the top guided the stationary cable to the power sheaves below the buses (where the wheels normally would be). Each bus had a driver and a front and back drive station. The driver had to literally drive the buses, though no steering was needed. The drivers had to use the throttle, transmission, and brakes as the bus lumbered up and down over the towers and pulled into the terminal. Summer business might have been lucrative for the company, as seasonal tourists would have ridden the tram as a novelty. The problem, as John West explained, was that when the cable got warm it sagged
and the gripper could not get a bite on the cable because of the oil oozing out of it – so some summer days it was simply not possible to run the tram. The restaurant and gift shop were the only profitable parts of the tram’s business. Based on the number of 1950s souvenirs with the SKIWAY logo that have been collected, way more people bought souvenirs than ever rode the tram.
The “Skiway to Timberline” operated in the 1951-1952 and 1952-1953 ski seasons and then languished, until the Forest Service demanded all traces of it be removed from public lands. Today the terminal that was on private property in Government Camp is a condo development called Thunderhead.
To learn more about the Skiway, visit the exhibit at the Mt. Hood Museum in Government Camp. There are videos online of Timberine’s “flying bus.”
Lloyd Musser is a volunteer of the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum.
Hoodland Community Resource Collaboration
By Amber Ford The Mountain Times
Although the Mt. Hood Villages communities are small in size and numbers in comparison to other mountain and vacation towns, there’s one thing that makes it large in spirit and fellowship: the many nonprofit organizations that call Mt. Hood home. Each unique in their dedication and service to The Mt. Hood Villages, nonprofits within the community have now decided to use their individual qualities and resources for the overall benefit of working together. Forming an alliance
in the summer of 2024, The Hoodland Community Resource Collaboration [HCRC] is a quarterly meet-up of several important and impactful nonprofits and local social service organizations that serve The Mt. Hood Villages. Like many businesses who collaborate on events, The HCRC is looking to do the same with the services they provide to The Mt. Hood Villages. Bri Dittlinger of The Hoodland Women’s Club has been a proponent of The Mt. Hood Villages’ charitable organizations uniting to provide the best services possible
to the community. “We are not an independent group or organization,” Dittlinger said. “We are a collection of local entities that collaborate to share resources, upcoming community events, and brainstorm ways to tackle community needs together,” Dittlinger added.
With over a dozen local 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and other nonprofit entities meeting, the HCRC’s common goal is to share resources and networks that could positively impact The Mt. Hood Villages. “The primary purpose is to collaborate moun -
tain efforts to better support our community,” Dittlinger said. “We wanted all of the community organizations at the same table to brainstorm, collaborate, and network,” Dittlinger added.
Although each organization represented through the HCRC addresses a special need in the community, the HCRC as a whole has the ability to encourage growth through shared resources and networking abilities. Thus far, the HCRC is composed of The Hoodland Women’s Club, Mt. Hood Lions Club, Neighborhood Missions,
Hoodland Senior Center, Hoodland CPO, Welches Schools, Welches PTCO, Hoodland Library, Camp Arrah Wanna, Kiwanis Camp, Mt. Hood Unida, Church on the Mountain, Mt. Hood Livability Coalition, Hoodland Wildfire Partnership, Orchid Health, Sanctuary Inn and Hoodland Holiday Baskets.
The HCRC meets quarterly at The Kiwanis Camp with their next scheduled meeting on Thursday, May 1st at noon. As with each organization’s goal of addressing the community’s needs first, HCRC’s
goal is to ensure their resources are shared among the network of organizations which comprise HCRC. “At each meeting, we review each group’s mission, resource availability, upcoming community events, and community needs that we could support,” Dittlinger said.
The HCRC is currently in the process of making a website dedicated to their mission and goals, but for community members interested in knowing more information please email HoodlandCRC@ gmail.com.
Mountain view: the old Skiway terminal is now condominiums. Photo courtesy Mt. Hood Museum collection.
Skiway photo, from the Mt. Hood Museum collection.
Welches Schools Celebrate Kindness Week with Fun and Meaningful Activities
By Marie Kennedy
The Mountain Times
During the week of February 10, Welches Schools embraced the spirit of kindness with interactive games, activities, and lessons designed to promote compassion and positivity among students.
Dubbed Kindness Week, the event encouraged students to engage in small acts of kindness while having fun and building a stronger sense of community. A few days of inclement weather moved the timing of some of the events into the following week, but the activities came off without a hitch.
One of the highlights was the “I in KIND” Photo Shoot, where students had the opportunity to take pictures in front of a special bulletin board, creatively positioning themselves as the “I” in the word “KIND.”
Leadership instructor Julie Carrier said, “We realized that the bulletin boards were too high on the wall for the students to be an effective “i” on the backdrop, so we used a ladder. As it turned out, they loved the idea of climbing the step ladder to have their pictures taken. Not sure what we’ll do next year, as really, this just worked!”
Another feature of the week was the Wheel of Kindness, set up during middle school lunch. Students took turns spinning the wheel, which landed on various questions or challenges related to kindness. No matter where the wheel stopped, everyone was a winner, receiving small prizes. Some of the suggestions on the wheel were to “Compliment a teacher.” “Define kindness,” “What is one way that you help out at home?” “Tell us one way you can be kinder
at school.”
Middle school Leadership students played a key role in spreading kindness through Candy Grams. The notes were paired with a sweet treat. Students took the opportunity to send uplifting messages to friends, classmates, and teachers, reminding everyone of the power of a kind word.
Reyna Pfenning played Cupid, along with her Candy Gram workers, Riley Carrier
and Elizabeth Rose. The team was organized as they moved from classroom to classroom, handing out the notes and treats to students. As they moved through the halls, happy students greeted Cupid, exchanging high-fives.
Welches Schools’ Kindness Week was more than just a series of activities — it was a reminder that kindness is a choice we can make every day. Whether through a simple shoutout, a thoughtful note, or a moment of inclusion, students were encouraged to carry the lessons of the week beyond the classroom and into their everyday lives.
As the school community reflects on the success of the event, one thing is clear — kindness is contagious, and at Welches Schools, it’s here to stay.
Work Where You Play...
Environment
The Woodsman: New Defensible-Space Standards Don’t Apply to Every Property, but They Should
By Steve Wilent
For The Mountain Times
In last month’s column I wrote about the urban wildfires in and around Los Angeles in January, that in many areas houses, not forests, were the primary fuel for the flames, and that similar destructive fires could burn here on The Mountain. In the LA fires, more than 18,000 homes and other buildings were destroyed or damaged, and 29 people died.
I also noted that I would write about the State of Oregon’s finalized Oregon Wildfire Risk Explorer map (tinyurl.com/3ye4penv), which was finalized in January, as well as the new defensible space standards and the forthcoming home-hardening code (regulations designed to make homes more resilient to wildfire). Here are a few key points about the map and the most recent draft of the standards and code:
The vast majority of residential and commercial properties in the Highway 26 corridor, from Sandy to Government Camp, are rated as Moderate hazard; some are designated as High hazard. Downtown Sandy is deemed Low hazard.
Most of these properties also are within a Wildland-Urban Interface zone, an area where structures and other human development meet or are intermingled with wildland or vegetative fuels.
Properties that are both high hazard and in the wildland-urban interface will be required to meet the state’s new defensible space standards and, for new construction only, the home-hardening code. Numerous property owners in our area have received letters from the state about this.
In short, the owners
of most residential and commercial properties in the Highway 26 corridor are not required to take any action. Those who own properties designated as High hazard will have to take action to meet the new defensible space standards and code; if they don’t, property owners may face penalties. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is charged with enforcing the defensible-space regulations.
The home-hardening code applies to newly constructed homes, their accessory structures, and significant alterations or additions. The code includes standards for roofs, gutters, the use of noncombustible, ignition resistant, or other fire-resistant materials on exterior walls, and other specifications; many existing building code requirements, such as roofing materials, already have home-hardening code requirements.
The state’s definition of defensible space is “a natural or human-made area in which material capable of supporting the spread of fire has been treated, cleared, or modified to slow the rate and intensity of advancing wildfire and allow space for fire-suppression operations to occur,” I’ve written several times about defensible space. For more information, see FireWise.org and hoodlandfire.gov.
If you have a home at Moderate hazard, you may be breathing a sigh of relief that you aren’t required to create a defensible space or follow the home-hardening code. In my view, such complacency is dangerous. Your house and your entire neighborhood is still, in my opinion, at a high risk of being destroyed by a wildfire.
Imagine a low-intensity wildfire in your neighborhood, a neighborhood where many, perhaps most, homeowners have created defensible spaces. The fire’s foot-tall flames are burning through low-lying fuels — fir needles, a few dry alder or maple leaves, grass, a few small branches, a shrub or two. Imagine two similar houses, each with wood siding. House A
has clean gutters and a 5-foot strip of gravel or bare earth around it. House B, next door, doesn’t — the gutters are half-full of dry debris, and there are fir needles and leaves — or decorative bark mulch — right up to the foundation. At House A, embers fall into the empty gutters and go out, and the flames burn up to a 5-foot strip of gravel or bare soil and stop. At House B, embers fall into the gutters and the debris starts burning, or the flames, though only a foot tall, burn right up to the house. Which one do you think has the best chance of surviving?
House A has a good chance of surviving. House B is likely to burn to the ground.
What’s worse, House B might burn so hot that it ignites House C next door, even though the owners had kept their gutters clean and created a defensible space. House C then ignites Houses D and E, and…. you get the picture. And this is assuming a relatively low-intensity wildfire.
This is an important message: Making your house and property more resilient to wildfire also helps make your neighborhood and community more resilient.
Still not convinced that you need a defensible space? Sooner or later, probably sooner, your insurance company will insist that you take action. I’ve heard that some locals have had messages like this from their companies: either you create defensible space, or we’re not going to cover you. Others
have had their coverage dropped, period.
Want to know more?
Consider attending Mountain Science Night on Wednesday, March 5, featuring Andy McEvoy, a faculty research assistant at Oregon State University. Topic: “Wildfire Risk in Western Oregon: Understanding the Present and Planning for the Future.”
Where: The Rendezvous Grill. When: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Mountain Science Nights for April and May (the last until fall) also have wildfire themes. The events are sponsored by the Mt. Hood Corridor Wildfire Partnership (tinyurl.com/ mumnuwmr). These events will be held on the first Wednesday of the month at The Vous.
Kudos to everyone who helped organize these events, especially Timberline Rim resident Melinda McCrossen and Marin Palmer, Wildfire Crisis Landscape Program Manager for the Mt. Hood National Forest.
At the risk (hazard?) of repeating myself, “The best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago. The next best time is now.” The same principle applies to preparing for wildfire: The best time to create a defensible space around your home was last year. The next best time is now.
Have a question about wildfire hazard or defensible space? Know the difference between hazard and risk? Let me know. Email: SWilent@ gmail.com.
Homes burned in the Palisades Fire near Pacific Palisades, California, January 14, 2025. Public domain image.
March Event Calendar
Meditation & Discussion
Alcoholics Anonymous | 9am
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church
Teen Hangout | 4pm
Sandy Library Hoyt Community Room
Pop-Up Dinner | 5pm
Reservations Required | Call 503.622.4618
Alpine Events
Narcotics Anonymous | 6pm
Hoodland Lutheran Church
Meditation & Discussion | 6:30pm
Contact info@wyeastzencenter.org
Zoom Meeting
Men’s Book Club | 7pm
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Sandy Library Hoyt Community Room
Live Music | Varies*
Every Monday @ Wraptitude
Meditation & Discussion | 9am
Contact info@wyeastzencenter.org
Zoom Meeting
Introduction to iPad & iPhone | 10am
Internet Basics | 10am
2 3 4 5 9 10 11 12
Registration Required call 503-668-5537
Sandy Library Hoyt Community Room
Yoga with Kate ($15-25) | 10am
Registration Required
HoodlandBazaarEvents@gmail.com
Hoodland Bazaar Spring Brunch | 10am
$30 at the Door | Meals on Wheels Fundraiser
Alpine Event Center
Spanish Class | 3pm
Sandy Library Community Room
English Class | 4pm
Sandy Library Community Room
Alcoholics Anonymous | 6pm
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church
Meditation & Discussion | 9am
Contact info@wyeastzencenter.org
Zoom Meeting
Yoga with Kate ($15-25) | 10am
Registration Required
HoodlandBazaarEvents@gmail.com
Hoodland Bazaar
Spanish Class | 3pm
Sandy Library Community Room
English Class | 4pm
Sandy Library Community Room Fingers and Chilly | 5pm Chicali Cantina
St. John in the Woods Catholic Church Bingo! | 6pm
Mt. Hood Lions Club
Deja 2+ | 7pm Folk Rock
Skyway Bar & Grill
Candle Lighting | 7:04pm Shabbat
Steiner Church Tours ($10) | 10am 1937 Steiner Church Sewing Class ($5) | 10am
Sandy Historical Society Museum
LEGO Club (Ages 5-10) | 1pm
Hoodland Library Community Room Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm
Sandy Library Fireplace Room
Fingers and Chilly | 5pm Al Forno Ferruzza
Timothy James Trio | 7pm
Family Storytime | 10am
Sandy Public Library
Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm
Sandy Library Fireplace Room
Mahjong | 2pm
Sandy Library Hoyt Community Room
Hoodland Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm
Hoodland Library Community Room
Band of Comerados | 7pm Jam Grass
Skyway Bar & Grill
Live Music | Varies^
Every Saturday @ Al Forno Ferruzza
Family Storytime | 10am
Sandy Public Library Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm
Sandy Library Fireplace Room Terry Robb Trio | 7pm With Adam Scamstad & Jeff Minnick Skyway Bar & Grill
Fingers and Chilly | 5pm Al Forno
Family Storytime | 10am
Sandy Public Library
Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm
Sandy Library Fireplace Room Hoodland Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm Hoodland Library Community Room
Talk | 3pm
Simple Estate Planning Guide
Goes Beyond Creating a Will by Cheryl Gill Sandy Library Hoyt Community Room Josh Cole Band | 7pm Bluegrass Skyway Bar & Grill Live Music | Varies^
Every Saturday @ Al Forno Ferruzza
Family Storytime | 10am Sandy Public Library Fiber Arts Circle | 2pm Sandy Library Fireplace Room Fingers and Chilly | 5pm Al Forno Ferruzza Trio Subtonic with Sarah Clarke | 7pm Funk Jazz Skyway Bar & Grill
Mountain Matters: Push to Restore Highway 26 Safety Corridor
By Amber Ford The Mountain Times
Commonly referred to as “Blood Alley,” Highway 26 is known to locals not just as the means of traveling in and out of their beloved mountain town, but also a route of potential dangerous hazards and even fatalities. Members of The Mt. Hood Villages have been urging local, state and county officials to bring back the safety corridor in an effort to reduce speeders, reckless driving and fatalities which recently took the life of a young, local father.
Although once a safety corridor from mile post 22.20 to 66.60, which included Cher -
ryville Hill, The Oregon Department of Transportation [O.D.O.T.] decommissioned part of this zone in 2020 because of the decrease in vehicle related fatalities. While it has become a mission of The Mt. Hood Villages to reinstate miles of this safety corridor, according to The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Public Information Officer, Ryan McCrary, there are certain conditions the highway must meet in order to be granted a safety corridor area designation once again. The Oregon Department of Transportation’s requirements for labeling a highway a safety corridor are as follows: 1.) The five year average of
the local fatal and serious injury crash rate is at or above 150% of the latest statewide five year average for a similar type of roadway [as determined by O.D.O.T. Crash Analysis and Reporting Unit.
2.] The Initial Designation Team agrees that the corridor length is manageable from an enforcement and education standpoint. The segment of highway must be similar in nature, 2-10 miles in length is preferable. Rural sections may be substantially longer than urban sections. 3.)
State and/or local law enforcement agencies commit to making the corridor a patrol priority.
4.) A multi-disciplinary stakeholder group meets on a regular basis, at least annually as defined in the charter [stakeholders are defined as those individuals, groups and agencies that have expressed a current interest in the safety corridor and are considered to have a valuable input in the process].
McCrary acknowledges and understands the uptick in community concern with regard to the stretch of Highway 26 that runs through The Mt. Hood Villages and validates concerns
and the statistics. “When the 41.3 mile U.S. 26 Mt. Hood Highway Safety Corridor was designated in 1996, the five year average fatal and serious injury crash rate was 225% of the statewide average crash rate for comparable highways,” McCrary said. “In addition, ODOT invested $65M into that corridor with $4.4M more worth of investments planned,” McCrary added.
While crash data for the last few years is still being analyzed [McCrary noted that 2023 data is approximately 90% complete], completed statistics from 20172022 shows there were 196 crashes between Cherryville and Rhododendron, six of those being fatalities. Although weather directly impacts road conditions and accidents in and around The Mt. Hood Villages, McCrary explains that the most dangerous aspect of Highway 26 is driving behavior. Adhering to posted speed limits, weather conditions and driver capability [exhaustion, visibility and substance impairment] can make all the difference in getting to one’s destination safely.
Meet the Athlete Morgan Wright’s Growth Through Sports
By Joe O’Leary The Mountain Times
What purpose do high school sports serve? Obviously, for the upper echelon of athletes, there’s a bigger importance behind everything. But for the more typical current or former high school athletes, the most crucial moments are likely to be times of bonding with teammates, or encountering situations that create personal development outside of the sport - things that can be valuable long after graduation.
Soft-spoken and generally unassuming Sandy High School
senior Morgan Wright has spent all four years at the school serving in a practice, game or meet after essentially every day of school.
Playing soccer in the spring, basketball in the winter, and participating in distance running for the school’s track and field team in the spring, Wright has used sports as an outlet to personally grow and find friends.
“It’s helped me outside of the sports. I met my best friend in soccer freshman year. Most of my friends I’ve met through sports,” Wright said. Being one of only three seniors
on a basketball team that struggled to pick up wins and coming off the bench in soccer, Wright has been able to take value from things outside of simply performing well in games – finding reward in being a leader for younger players and enjoying the quality time she has with teammates.
“Even if I’m not necessarily on the field, I still work my hardest in practice to make sure I’m pushing someone that will be. Just keep showing up,” Wright said. In any team environment, it’s crucial to have people that want to further group success by any means necessary. To make things even better, Wright seems to have multiple and different definitions of success.
“It was harder for soccer because I didn’t play as much. So I’d put in a lot of work, and even if I wasn’t seeing it pay off [personally], my team would still
win and make it worth it. But for basketball, I play a lot, put in a lot of work for that - I enjoy playing and being around my teammates so I see it paying off even if we usually don’t get the results we hope for in games,” Wright explained.
High school is all about changing. Everyone walks in one way and comes walks out wildly differently. The things you spend your time doing teach you lessons and rattle you around a bit to recognize those changes.
Wright spent her time keeping her head down and showing up every day no matter if her team was losing with her on the bench or winning with her playing every single minute of the game.
“When I was a freshman I honestly wasn’t really expecting to ever make it this far and get to play on varsity teams. It’s cool to see how far I’ve come,” Wright said.
Photo from the December 2023 car accident, which totaled my car. I was hit while turning into the shop by someone speeding and following too closely.
Third graders’ renditions of ‘Winter in the Woods’
Welches Parent Teacher Community Organization
By Cassie Kanable, WTPCO
For The Mountain Times
Hello Welches Families! March is shaping up to be an exciting month filled with community events, student achievements, and preparations for our biggest fundraiser of the year! Here’s what’s coming up:
Scholastic Book Fair: March 3-7
The Scholastic Book Fair is back! Join us at Welches Schools from March 3-7 to shop an incredible selection of books. Every purchase benefits our school and helps foster a love of reading. To wrap up the week, don’t miss our annual Books & Bagels event on Friday, March 7, from 8:00 AM – 8:45 AM — a special opportunity for students and their families to enjoy breakfast and books together! You can also shop online from March 3-7, with all purchases shipping directly to you. Visit the Book Fair Homepage and click “Shop Now” to start browsing: https://
www.scholastic.com/bf/ welchesschool1Books.
Welches PTCO Movie Night: Friday, March 14
Join us for a community movie night featuring Sonic the Hedgehog 3, on Friday, March 14, in the Welches Elementary Multipurpose Room! Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the movie starts at 6:00 PM. Bring chairs, floor pillows, or blankets for a cozy viewing experience. Admission is just $1 per person, and concessions will be available for purchase. ALL CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT.
Good Luck, Reading Rizzlers!
A huge congratulations to our 5th-grade Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB) team, the Reading Rizzlers, who will represent Welches Schools at the OBOB Regional Competition on March 15! Best of luck — we’re cheering you on!
Bid & Bloom Spring Auction + Gala: April 26, 2025
Mark your calendars
— our biggest event of the year is almost here! The Bid & Bloom Spring Auction + Gala will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This year, we’re elevating the event with a gala experience, including delicious food, drinks, live entertainment, raffles, and a carefully curated silent auction. All proceeds support vital arts programs and enrichment activities at Welches Schools, giving our students access to music, theater, hands-on art, and cultural experiences.
Last year, this community raised $27,500, with $18,000 funding much-needed technology upgrades for our classrooms. This year, we aim to make an even greater impact! Here’s how you can help:
• Sponsor or Donate: While we appreciate item donations, we’re focusing on direct financial contributions to meet our funding goals more efficiently. Sponsorships provide excellent visibility for
Free Vision Clinic in Sandy and Boring
The Sandy and Hood View Seventh-day Adventist Churches are proud to host a Free Vision Clinic aimed at enhancing community health through comprehensive eye care services. This initiative will offer essential eye health services to individuals in the Sandy and Boring areas over two consecutive days.
LOCATION 1: SANDY Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 18575 SE Langensand Rd, Sandy. April 6, 8AM–4 PM. Appointments: 503-668-6144 or sandyadventistchurch.org/ events/vision-clinic
LOCATION 2: HOOD VIEW Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 26775 SE Kelso Rd, Boring. April 7, 8AM–4PM. Appointments: 503-512-9055.
SERVICES OFFERED BY APPOINTMENT ONLY:
• Vision Tests
• Free Prescription Eyeglasses
• Screening for Diabetes & Glaucoma
• Cataract Evaluation
These services are provided at no cost, emphasizing our commitment to community welfare and the prevention of vision-related health issues. This initiative is particularly crucial for those who might not have regular access to eye care due to financial constraints or lack of insurance.
“We believe that good vision is foundational to a good quality of life. By offering these free services, we aim to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of our community members,” said Tami Beaty, Community Outreach Director, of Sandy Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to check their eye health, get screened for potential diseases, and receive free eyeglasses if needed. Services are offered by appointment only.
Please join us in this effort to promote eye health and prevent vision loss in our community.
businesses while making a significant impact on our schools.
• Contribute an Auction Item: Gift certificates, experiences, themed baskets, and services are all welcome!
• Food & Beverage Sponsorship: If you’re in the food or beverage industry, your contributions can help make this evening even more special.
• Volunteer: Whether you have a little time or a lot, there’s a way to get involved. To support the auction, visit welchesptco.org/auction or scan the QR code below. Thank you for your continued support of Welches Schools — we couldn’t do this without you!
BACK ROW LEFT TO RIGHT
Evan Skaggs, 3rd | RJ Minter, 5th
Jack Stoller Smith, 7th | Charlotte Fondersmith, 4th Ava Henry, 6th | Newton Williams, 3rd Gideon Kaiser, 6th
About 10 years ago there was a study in England that searched historic dental literature to find the evidence that flossing was beneficial. It turned out there was really not a lot of research that had been done on flossing. And while logically it was always assumed that removing bacteria from between your teeth could help prevent cavities and periodontal disease, it turns out nobody really studied it very well.
Anecdotally, in the dental office it was
The Whole Tooth: Flossgate
pretty obvious to dental care providers like dentists and dental hygienists that patients who flossed often had better outcomes than those patients who did not.
What surprised me even more though was not the outcome of the study, but the way it was publicized. It’s not too hard to imagine how this would happen, because if research dollars are having to be allocated within a tight budget, I would think cancer, degenerative diseases, or more serious diseases would likely be studied ahead of flossing. I’m a dentist, and I love teeth, but even I can admit that studying flossing would not be super high up on that list.
What really surprised me was how the news was delivered to the public. “Here’s how you wasted 730 minutes last year,” Time magazine wrote. The Guardian wrote “Dentists have
stopped being strung along by the great flossing yarn. About time.”
Ouch! I like the one from CBS News that was short and sweet: “A Big Problem With Flossing.” And finally a British newspaper, The Independent: “Flossing Your Teeth Does Not Work and Could Be a Waste of Your Time.”
I think what was lost in the whole drama was that there really wasn’t a lot of evidence that flossing was bad or didn’t help; it was just that there weren’t a lot of high-quality peer reviewed flossing studies to begin with – so it was hard to say one way or another without evidence.
Recently, however, the American Heart Association came out with the results from a preliminary study that found that regular flossing could reduce the risk of stroke or irregular heartbeats. The study involved 6000 participants and spanned a
25-year follow up. The analysis found that the people who were flossing regularly had a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke, and a 12% lower risk of AFib. These lower risks were found within the flossing population no matter what their brushing habits or
dental visits were like.
The study also found that flossing was associated with fewer cavities and a lower risk of periodontal disease. The limitation of the study was that it relied on self-reporting data.
It’s a pretty decent study, but fast forward to today and there still hasn’t been a good
long-term quality study on flossing that has grabbed the headlines like the original one 10 years ago. But when it does happen in the future, whether it says once and for all floss or don’t floss, I’ll make sure and keep you all posted! Until then, I plan to keep on reaching for the floss every night.
By Dr. Lyon of Orchid Health
For The Mountain Times
When it comes to nutrition, the Mediterranean diet has long been recognized as one of the healthiest ways to eat. Rooted in the traditional eating patterns of countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain, this diet is not just about food — it’s a lifestyle that promotes
longevity, heart health, and overall well-being. As a physician, I often recommend it to my patients looking to improve their health in a sustainable and enjoyable way.
What Makes the Mediterranean Diet Special?
The Mediterranean diet focuses on whole, nutrient-rich foods.
It emphasizes:
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help combat inflammation.
• Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and
whole wheat pasta support digestive health and stabilize blood sugar.
• Lean Proteins: Legumes, fish, and poultry offer high-quality protein without excess saturated fat.
• Herbs and Spices: Instead of salt, Mediterranean cuisine relies on flavor -
ful herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary to enhance meals.
• Moderate Dairy and Red Wine: Cheese and See LYON Page 21
Well Adjusted: Healing Whiplash & Restoring the Cervical Curve
By Dr. Melanie Brown Chiropractic Physician, Mountain Life Clinic
Car accidents can leave lasting effects on the body, especially when it comes to whiplash and the straightening of the neck or cervical curve. While it may seem counterintuitive to seek chiropractic care when movement is painful, it is one of the best things you can do for recovery. Chiropractic care helps alleviate pain, restores proper spinal alignment, supports soft tissue healing, and improves longterm function.
Understanding Whiplash & Other Accident-Related Injuries
Whiplash occurs when the head is forcefully thrown forward and backward, overstretching the ligaments and muscles in the neck. One of the most common structural
changes after a whiplash injury is the loss of the normal cervical curve, leading to a straightened or even reversed curve. If left untreated, this can create long-term dysfunction, pain, and even early degenerative changes.
The neck, however, isn’t the only area affected in a car accident. The force of impact can cause injuries throughout the body, including:
• Shoulder injuries - The seatbelt restrains one side of the body while the other is thrown forward, leading to strains, sprains, or rotator cuff injuries.
• Hip and ankle trauma –Braking for impact can put excessive force on the lower body, leading to misalignments, joint pain, and soft tissue damage.
• Lower back pain – The sudden jolt of a crash can compress the spine, causing disc injuries or aggravating existing conditions.
Chiropractic Techniques for Recovery
1. Gentle Restorative Adjustments
Chiropractic care after a car accident is highly individualized. Depending on the severity of
the injury, chiropractors modify their techniques to ensure the safest and most effective treatments. For those with acute pain and inflammation, gentle mobilization and low-force adjustments can help restore movement and reduce nerve irritation without placing excessive stress on the injured tissues.
2. Motion Radiographs for Precise Diagnosis
X-rays and other imaging tools help chiropractors identify exactly where ligament injuries have occurred and enables them to assess the degree of cervical curve straightening. This allows for a targeted treatment plan that promotes optimal healing rather than just symptom management.
3. Frequency-Specific Microcurrent for Accelerated Healing
Frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM) is a highly effective therapy for speeding up recovery after an accident. This treatment uses low-level electrical currents to increase the mitochondria’s production of ATP, which fuels cell regeneration and healing. By enhancing cellular energy production, FSM
helps tissues heal faster, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain.
FSM is a sub-sensory modality, which is extremely comfortable and often undetectable to the patient. It can be applied using electrode pads or graphite gloves, allowing the practitioner to massage the tissues while delivering the therapeutic current. This combination of microcurrent and manual therapy can dramatically improve recovery time and overall outcomes.
4. Supplements to Support Healing
Proper supplementation is key in reducing inflammation and speeding up tissue repair. Some of the best natural options include:
• Proteolytic Enzymes
– These enzymes help break down inflammatory proteins and accelerate healing after soft tissue injuries.
• Bromelain – Derived from pineapple, bromelain has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and improve recovery.
• Other Natural Anti-Inflammatories
– Supplements like turmeric and omega-3s can also help control
post-injury inflammation.
5. Kinesio Taping & Strengthening for Recovery
• Acute Phase Support—In the early stages after an accident, kinesio taping provides support for injured muscles and ligaments without restricting movement. This can help reduce pain, swelling, and further injury while still allowing for natural healing.
• Post-Acute Strengthening – Once the acute inflammation subsides, specific strengthening exercises are introduced to stabilize the cervical spine and restore normal function, preventing chronic pain or future injury.
6. The Role of Massage in Recovery
Pain, stiffness, and fatigue often make it difficult to function in
the early days after a car accident. This is where massage therapy plays a critical role. Initially, it helps relieve muscle tension, improves circulation, and promotes relaxation, making it easier to get through each day. As tissues remodel, deeper techniques can help break up scar tissue and improve long-term mobility.
Individuals recovering from car accidents can achieve lasting relief and full-body restoration by combining chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, frequency-specific microcurrent, supportive therapies, and proper supplementation. Even minor accidents can cause lasting damage. Be sure to get checked out after an accident to ensure the best possible recovery!
support overall wellness.
Adopting the Mediterranean Lifestyle
yogurt are included in moderation, and red wine is enjoyed in small amounts alongside meals.
Proven Health Benefits
Research has consistently shown that following a Mediterranean diet can lead to numerous health benefits, including:
• Heart Health: Studies indicate that this diet reduces the risk of heart disease by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and promoting better circulation.
• Weight Management: Because it prioritizes whole foods over processed ones, the Mediterranean diet can help with maintaining a healthy weight.
• Diabetes Prevention:
A diet rich in fiber and healthy fats can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Reduced Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of this diet help prevent chronic diseases and
• Brain Health: The antioxidants and healthy fats support cognitive function and may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
One of the best aspects of this diet is its flexibility and focus on enjoyment. Instead of restrictive eating, it encourages mindful, communal meals. Cooking at home
with fresh ingredients, taking time to savor food, and engaging in regular physical activity are all key components of the Mediterranean way of life.
If you’re looking for a sustainable approach to better health, the Mediterranean diet is a fantastic
choice. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also backed by decades of research and centuries of tradition. Start small — incorporate more olive oil, swap refined grains for whole grains, and add an extra serving of vegetables to your plate. Your body and mind will thank you!
Want
to Learn More?
If you’re looking to change your nutrition or have questions about reaching your health goals, call Orchid Health Hoodland Clinic at 971-333-0494.
Hoodland Women’s Club Highlights
By Cathy Lavin, HWC
For The Mountain Times
If you haven’t already marked your calendars for the Hoodland Women’s Club (HWC) major annual fundraiser, it’s time to do so. The 21st golf “Scramble for Scholarships” will take place this year on June 26 at the Mt. Hood Oregon Resort. That’s earlier than in past years partly to avoid conflicts with events crammed into the Mountain communi-
ty’s short, busy summer and perhaps avoid excessive August heat. There are multiple ways community members can support the scramble, including golfing and providing sponsorships, basket and auction contributions and outright donations. Although proceeds from the tournament also support other aspects of HWC’s Community Fund, its primary focus is to fund scholarships
for Hoodland residents and those with ties to the community. Historically, HWC has provided $2,500 scholarships to four graduating seniors from the Hoodland area. This year will feature some changes, however. The biggest of these is an additional scholarship of up to $500 for professional development. This scholarship is intended for adults who want to improve their knowledge and skills. To be eligi -
ble, applicants must live within HWC boundaries (Alder Creek to Government Camp), show financial need and submit a completed application (available on the HWC website – https://hoodlandwomensclub.org –by August 31. Funds may be used for such things as continuing education, conference attendance and purchase of textbooks or workbooks. While the maximum amount for each scholarship is $500, more than one scholarship may be awarded to an individual.
Criteria for high school scholarships have been updated for 2025 as well. While preference will be given to students living within the HWC boundaries, the Club will also consider highly qualified applicants with strong ties to the HWC area. While scholarships previously have been limited to graduating seniors, older students will qualify this year as well. This enables students who choose not to attend college directly following graduation to apply when they are ready to begin school. The students will have up to 24 months to use the funds from the
SUDOKU
time scholarships are awarded. Scholarships can be used not only for college, but for vocational school (such as beauty school or technical training). Potential recipients can contact Rhana Mather at Sandy High School for additional information.
February 2025
Another way local residents can support HWC’s Community Fund is by purchasing flower baskets. The $30 (plus handling fee) baskets come in a choice of petunias, million bells or mixed variety flowers. They can be purchased on the HWC website. Baskets will be available for pick up at the parking lot across from Welches Schools on May 17. The order deadline is April 10.
Looking in the rear view mirror, HWC sponsored a Sweetheart’s Ball on February 13. The event served not only as a fundraiser, but as an opportunity for local residents to dress up and enjoy music and dancing while sampling a variety of hors d’oeuvres and beverages.
Those interested in becoming HWC members can join via the HWC website for just $25/year. They can also check out the Club at one of its monthly meetings by first contacting board@ hoodlandwomensclub. org. HWC’s March meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3, at the Rendezvous Grill.
Edited by Margie E. Burke
HOW TO SOLVE:
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)
2025 Sweetheart’s Ball attendees: HWC members Kim Anzarut, Siouxsie Downs, Bri Dittlinger, Emma Galligan.
by Margie E. Burke
CROSSWORD by Margie E. Burke
SUDOKU by Margie E. Burke
Mt. Hood Flowers of the Month
By Madeline Bombardi For The Mountain Times
As winter fades, tulips emerge as one of the first signs of spring’s arrival on Mount Hood. With their elegant, sleek forms and vibrant colors — deep purples, fiery reds, soft pinks, and sunny yellows — tulips bring a fresh burst of energy to the landscape. These hardy flowers thrive in the cool, moist conditions
MT. HOOD FLOWERS
Bouquets | Weddings | Events
of the lower elevations, standing tall against late-season frosts and signaling warmer days ahead.
This month’s tulip arrangement showcases the beauty of these resilient blooms, paired with delicate greenery to create a balanced, dynamic display. Give the gift of renewal and brighten someone’s day with a cheerful reminder of the season’s change.
By Pat Erdenberger, Hoodland CPO For The Mountain Times
As the snow melts and days warm slightly, we welcome the very busy month of March! Most of you know that the goal of the Hoodland Community Planning Organization (HCPO) is to bring County information to our Hoodland community and have a voice back to the County.
The CPO will hold an in-person Hoodland Community meeting on Thursday, March 20th at 7PM at the Mt. Hood Resort, in the Osprey Room adjacent to the Altitude Restaurant in the main building. We thank the Resort for their donation of meeting space.
Our speakers at the March 20th meeting will be Aaron Bayer, Superintendent of Schools, Oregon Trail School District, and our regular feature, the “Mountain Minute.” The business meeting will follow the speakers’ presentations.
The February 20th Zoom meeting titled “Pursuing Rural Disaster Resilience” with a focus on the Upper Sandy River was a great success as Jay Wilson of Clackamas County Disaster Management took this historical subject on the road again. We enjoyed the “Mountain Minute” with Lori Catanboy, who brought us news from the Mt. Hood Resort in Welches. Thanks to both speakers.
The CPO is continuing to work on a framework for citizens’ emergency communication. Provisionally named the Hoodland Emergency Communication Network (HECN), the concept has already attracted interest from a dozen people living in the Hoodland CPO area.
We’re looking for volunteer trainers from experienced GMRS users and interest from HAM/ GMRS operators to work with long term. Our distant goal is broad and
it will take time to establish a corridor system of communication from Firwood to Government Camp, Timberline and Wapanitia. We don’t know what, when or where emergencies will strike. This network would constitute a full Mt. Hood corridor communications network for emergencies when the power and cell towers are down which would provide a helpful measure of resilience in our community. Please continue to contact us at hoodland-
cpo@gmail.com if you are curious and interested in more information, or if you are gung-ho to get this going. Another very exciting event is the start of a series of science speakers, beginning in March at the Rendezvous Restaurant in Welches. The first speaker, Andy McEvoy of Oregon State University, will present “Wildfire Risk in Western Oregon: Understanding the Present and Planning for the Future.” Please join us in support of this Mt Hood Corridor Wildfire Partnership event on Wednesday, March 5th 6:00-7:30PM at the Rendezvous.
“It Takes This Village”
ADOPTION OF THE MONTH
Buff, tough, and covered in fluff! This guy knows his stuff!
Say hello to Fluffster! He is a 3 year old, male, loooooong haired tuxedo. Fluffster has an independent spirit and enjoys patroling the adoption center, but that doesn’t mean he won’t come find you for attention and brushings when he needs some love!
We believe Fluffster would do best as the only pet in the home. If you’d like a free pair of front row tickets to the Fluffster show, fill out our cat adoption application today! He would join your home neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped for an adoption fee of $120.
Exploring the Origins of Our Community Names Part Three
By Marie Kennedy
The Mountain Times
This is the third in the series on community names in the Mount Hood corridor. We’ll take a look at some of the towns heading down the mountain, starting with Government Camp. Government Camp Government Camp sits at 4,000 feet elevation, to the south of Mount Hood, and is the only town within five miles of the mountain. The area was known as Government Camp as far back as 1849, when a group of U.S. Cavalry men that were headed to Fort Vancouver were ordered to take the land route, rather than floating down the Columbia River with the rest of their comrades. It was late in the season, and harsh winter weather led them to abandon their wagons and supplies. When the remnants were found in the spring, the area became known as Government Camp.
Oliver Yocum, Francis Little and William Steel filed for homestead rights, and the town grew from there.
Oliver Yocum petitioned for a post office in town. After some dickering with the Postal Service over the name, he elected to call it Pompeii, after the Roman city that was buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. Eventually, the Postal Service decided to go with the original name though – so the town name switched back to Government Camp. There was a movement to change the name to Trillium in the early 1960s but it apparently failed miserably. There was also talk of incorporating Government Camp as recently as 2011, but residents voted it down. Today, Government Camp, or Govy, is at the heart of the mountain scene – a center for outdoor recreation.
Driving down the hill
from the town of Government Camp, about 8 miles from Rhododendron, sits Laurel Hill. We buzz through it with ease these days, but pioneers and travelers struggled mightily to get themselves, the wagons, and their animals through, requiring ropes and pulleys, and impromptu anchors made from dragged trees.
Elizabeth Goltra, September 24, 1853 wrote: “This is a very rainy morning, the roads are very bad, but no time to be lost, fearful of being caught in a snowstorm, started early, cleared up a little about noon, got down Laurel Hill about dark, this is the roughest and steepest hill on the road, got down all safe by cutting and chaining a tree behind the wagon 100 ft. long.”
Rhododendron
In 1846, just east of what we now call Rhododendron, a tollgate was built for east to
west travel only. Upon arrival, weary travelers would have just gotten their wagons, passengers and animals down the 60 percent grade at Laurel Hill, where they now faced the Barlow Road tollgate. The pioneers found a widening in the road, where they rested and prepared for the last leg of the journey.
Frank Stevens on July 5, 1881, wrote: “... all of a sudden to the Toll Gate. Had a small store here for the accommodation of emigrants. Came on down into a little glade, where we found some grass and camped for dinner. Here we found the red-andwhite clover, dandelion, dewberries, strawberries, all growing.”
Lottie Maybee Morris, 1900, wrote: “It looked like any farm gate ... but it was locked and there was no way around it. We paid the 25 cents to pass through.”
It was near here that in 1905 Henry S. Rowe, a Portland mayor and businessman, built the Rhododendron Inn, with partner Lee Holden, a former Portland Fire Chief. They named the community Rowe, developing the property as a summer resort colony. Holden took over management of the hotel in 1910, and Rowe died in 1914. In 1920, the town name was changed from Rowe to Rhododendron at the request of the
Postal Service. Rhododendron celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2020.
Faubion
The town of Faubion was named for the Faubion family. In 1907, William and Anna Faubion moved from Portland to settle on 80 acres of land just east of the Ranger Station in Zigzag, Oregon. They built a family home there, at the base of Hunchback Mountain and called it “La Casa Monte,” or “The Mountain House.” They turned the family home into a roadhouse, and eventually added a store on the property, which helped them get approval for a post office in 1924. The Postal Service, however, canceled the contract in 1937. The community, including the old store which is now a private residence, is located on
Faubion Loop Rd., part of the old highway loop. The Faubions had 6 children. Their daughter Wilhelmina Jane “Jennie” Faubion married Billy Welch in 1911. Jennie Welch worked alongside her husband, managing their businesses and properties (more on Welch family and the development of Welches in the fourth and final part of this series). Jennie was well-loved in the mountain communities and was a vibrant and independent woman. Her antique store in Welches, the little yellow house across from the resort, was filled with wonders. Jennie Faubion Welch passed away in 1985. Next month we’ll finish our ride down the mountain, visiting more of the towns along the way as we head west.
Photo of Rhododendron Inn, from the collection of Gary Randall photographer and historian.
Barlow Road Sign, taken by freelance and retired Forest Service photographer Tom Iraci.
Outdoors
The Viewfinder: Finding Inspiration in the Winter
By Gary Randall
For The Mountain Times
Winter in Oregon has a way of silencing the world. Between storms, snow blankets the forests, rivers run cold and heavy, and fog clings to the trees like a ghostly veil. The familiar trails around Mount Hood transform, stripped of their vibrant greens and golden autumn hues. For a landscape photographer, winter can feel like an endless challenge — gray skies,
skeletal trees, damp cold, and fleeting daylight. But hidden within this season is an unexpected beauty, a source of inspiration for those willing to step outside and look for it.
Winter brings a differ-
ent kind of magic to the Pacific Northwest. Icy creeks and waterfalls, their cascades lined by icy formations, create scenes more dramatic as those found in other seasons. Fog sifts through the forests at dawn, turning
familiar landscapes into ethereal dreamscapes. Snowfall softens the rugged terrain, covering everything in a pristine, untouched blanket.
Recently, while hiking on one of my favorite trails with my dog Hazel, I was reminded of winter’s subtle beauty. What had been a typical forest scene in summer had transformed into a winter wonderland. The creek’s edges were lined with delicate ice formations, and the low, horizontal diffused light softened the feel of the forest. It was a scene I wouldn’t have experienced if I had stayed home, discouraged by the cold.
Winter photography comes with its share of difficulties. Cold fingers can make adjusting camera settings a challenge. Moisture from rain or snow can threaten delicate equipment. The sun, when it appears, lingers low on the horizon before disappearing too soon. And then there’s the mental battle — fighting that temptation to stay indoors when the world outside looks gray and lifeless.
The key is preparation and perspective. Layering up with warm clothing, using hand warmers, keeping batteries insulated and having plenty of microfiber cloths in your backpack will help to make a wintry weather trek a pleasure. Also, adjusting expectations is crucial. Winter isn’t typically about grand, colorful sunsets or lush greenery. It’s about contrast, subtlety, and mood. A single frost-covered leaf, left over from the season before, a set of animal tracks in the snow, or the way a mist flows along with the Sandy River — these details become the story.
Though the obstacles are real, winter photography is uniquely rewarding. The absence of
crowds makes once-popular trails feel like private sanctuaries. The low, diffused light creates a natural softness, minimizing harsh shadows and allowing for striking natural monochrome compositions. Simplicity is important — winter landscapes strip away the distractions, leaving shape, texture, and form.
One of my most memorable winter outings came on a day when I didn’t want to leave the house. The forecast promised nothing but rain with snow over the pass, but I decided to venture out anyway. The entire drive to Rowena Crest near The Dalles was wet, and I braced myself for a gray, uninspiring morning. But soon after I arrived, the sky began to shift. The rain eased, the clouds broke, and suddenly I was gifted with a stunning sunrise stretching over the Columbia River. It was a reminder that the most beautiful moments often come when least expected. Had I stayed home, I would have missed it entirely. I have many of those stories that I could tell. Winter may not always offer easy beauty, but it offers something deeper — a challenge, a chance to see the landscape in a unique way, and an opportunity to sharpen your skill and creative vision. The trick is to step outside, even on days when the world seems dull. Because in those quiet moments, when the snow muffles sound and the fog weaves through the trees, there’s a kind of magic waiting to be captured.
So grab your camera, lace up your boots, and embrace the stillness of the winter scenery that surrounds us on The Mountain. You might just find inspiration where you least expect it.
What’s Happening At Your Hoodland And Sandy Public Libraries
Weekly Events & Activities
Fiber Arts Circle
Tuesdays, 2:00 PM & Saturdays, 2:00 PM
Join other handcrafters at an informal Fiber Arts Circle. Weavers, spinners, knitters, and crocheters are welcome. If your work is portable, bring it along! This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow fiber enthusiasts and share techniques.
Location: Sandy Library Fireplace Room
Read to the Dog
Tuesdays, 4:15 PM
Help your child improve their reading skills by reading to Tanis, a trained therapy dog who loves books! This program provides a comforting and fun environment for children to gain confidence in their reading abilities.
Location: Sandy Library Kids’ Room
Storytime Sessions
Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Preschool storytime with Miss Monica, including books, songs, rhymes, and a craft activity from Todos Juntos. This program is designed to help develop early literacy skills in a fun and engaging way. Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Fridays, 10:30 - 11:00 AM
Join us for Storytime at Hoodland Library with books, songs, and rhymes. A wonderful way for young children to build language and listening skills.Location: Hoodland Library Community Room
Family Storytime
Saturdays, 10:00 - 10:30 AM
Family Storytime with Miss Monica featuring picture books, songs, and rhymes that the whole family can enjoy together.
Location: Sandy Public Library
Spanish Classes
Spanish Class: Sundays, 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Beginner-level Spanish lessons with teacher Maria Smith. Learn foundational vocabulary and basic conversational phrases in a supportive group setting.Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Clase de inglés / English Class Sundays, 4:00 - 5:00 PM English classes for beginner to intermediate learners. This class provides a friendly and encouraging environment to build language skills. Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library Monthly & Bi Monthly Activities
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
2nd & 4th Wed. and 1st & 3rd Thur, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Following old-school D&D rules from 1980—just like in the hit show Stranger Things—we are a friendly group of players both experienced and new to the game who gather around the table. Using a flexible, sandbox-style approach, the players choose their adventure. Will you explore the mysterious ruins seeking the rumored treasure within? Or clear a cave complex of ferocious orcs and earn great reward and fame from the local lord? No matter what you choose, adventure and treasure awaits! We play the traditional way, rolling dice in-person around a table using “theater of the mind” and are open to players ages 13 to 3,000 (sorry, no liches allowed).
Seats are limited. Registration is required. Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Dungeon Master Steve Williamson, gaming@ruckerworks.com
Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Celebration
Saturday, Mar 1, 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a special storytime, followed by themed games and activities inspired by his beloved books. Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Hoodland Public Library
24525 E. Welches Rd.
Welches, OR. 97067
Info: hoodlandlibrary@ci.sandy.or.us or 503-622-3460.
LEGO Club
Saturday, Mar 1, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Join us for LEGO fun and creative building challenges. A great opportunity for kids to use their imaginations!
Location: Hoodland Library Community Room
Kids Club - LEGOs
Tuesday, Mar 11, 4:00 - 5:30 PM
Visit the library after school to make LEGO creations that will be displayed at the library!
Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library
Hoodland Fiber Arts Circle
Saturday, Mar 8 & 22, 3:00 PM
Fiber artists, come join other handcrafters at an informal Fiber Arts circle. Weavers, spinners, knitters, crocheters, if your work is portable, you are welcome. Hoodland Library Community Room
Mahjong Saturday, Mar 8, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Come play mahjong at the Sandy Library!
Beginners are welcome. An introductory course will take place at 2:00 PM, followed by regular play at 2:30 PM. No set required to join, but if you have one, please bring it with you.
Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Introduction to iPad & iPhone
Sunday, Mar 9 & Tuesday, Mar 25, 10:00 AM
Learn how to navigate your device and explore useful features. Registration required.Location:
Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Microsoft Word: Tuesday, Mar 18, 10:00 AM
Need to compose a letter? Make a list? Write a resume? Take this class to learn basic formatting skills in Microsoft Word. Space is limited. Registration is required. Call the library at 503-668-5537 to register for a class.
Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Maureen at mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us 4
Internet Basics Tuesday, Mar 4, 10:00 AM
Are you an internet novice in need of more information? If so, sign up for Internet Basics!
In this class, learn basic internet terminology and how to navigate a browser, locate a website, identify common domains, build search skills, and stay safe while searching in this class. This class will focus on the Google Chrome browser. Space is limited. Registration is required. Contact the library at 503-668-5537 to register for a class. Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Maureen at mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us
Google Drive and Google Docs
Tuesday, Mar 11, 10:00 AM
Learn about Google Drive for uploading, organizing, and sharing files. Get an introduction to Google Docs (Google’s word processor). A Google account (Gmail account) is required prior to taking the class. Registration is required. Call the library at 503-668-5537 to register.
Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Maureen at mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us
Creation Station, Art Lab
Monday, Mar 10, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Tiny Art Party. Creation Station is a twicemonthly interactive program that welcomes adults with developmental disabilities and offers several arts-and-crafts stations with a variety of materials to accommodate different interests and abilities. Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Katie at kmurphy@ci.sandy.or.us
Creation Station, Maker Lab
Monday, Mar 24, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Sticker Search and Find. Creation Station is a twice-monthly interactive program that welcomes adults with developmental disabilities and offers several arts-and-crafts stations with a variety of materials to accommodate different interests and abilities. Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Katie at kmurphy@ci.sandy.or.us
Teen Advisory Board
Monday, Mar 10, 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Teens help shape library programming and create an engaging space for peers.Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Teen Hangout
Monday, Mar 3 & 17, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
In this month’s edition of Teen Hangout the games are on! Come try out Honey Heist, a one-page RPG where you play a bear (or a honeybadger), try out some new board and card games like Exploding Kittens, and try your best to come out on top in Jackbox Party Games! To play Jackbox games, bring a mobile device or tablet! This is a drop-in program that
provides teens grades 6 - 12 a dedicated space to hang out, make friends, watch movies and YouTube on the big screen, play games, share interests, listen to music, get creative, and more!
Themed crafts and events held monthly. Snacks provided! Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library Info: Kris at kritchie@ci.sandy.or.us
French Conversation Group
Mondays, Mar 10 & 24, 2:30 - 3:30 PM| Improve your French conversation skills in a friendly setting. All levels welcome.Location: Hoodland Library Community Room Book Clubs
Men’s Book Club
Monday, Mar 3, 7:00 PM
Discussing Horse by Geraldine Brooks.
Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library Women’s Book Club
Thursday, Mar 13, 6:00 PM
Discussing Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan.Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library
Hoodland Library Book Group
Tuesday, Mar 18, 4:00 PM
Discussing The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff.
Location: Hoodland Library Community Room
Digital Book Club
Thursday, Mar 6, 7:00 PM
The Hunter by Tana French Via Zoom. Please email Kat for the Zoom link. Info: Kat at kaden@ci.sandy.or.us
Author Talk:
A Very Simple Estate Planning Guide That Goes Beyond Creating a Will, by Cheryl Gill Saturday, Mar 22, 2:00 PM
When Cheryl Gill decided to write A Very Simple Estate Planning Guide That Goes Beyond Creating a Will, she had a simple focus in mind: “create a book that presents this topic in a way that everyone can understand and walks them through the process to reach their goal.” Cheryl’s years of experience in the real estate and legal worlds helped her create a book that discusses the following topics: What is estate planning and how do you get started? What are the three things everyone needs to have? Do you need a will or a trust? How do you avoid probate? What are the most common mistakes people make? Join us as Cheryl Gill discusses her book and offers a Q&A session at the end of the presentation. Hoyt Community Room at the Sandy Library Kids STEM Club
Tuesday, Mar 25, 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Kids in grades 1 - 5 will explore fun and educational STEM activities. This session features a hands-on paper airplane experiment using a special launcher.Location: Hoyt Community Room, Sandy Library Ongoing Events & Activities
Free Reading Tutoring
One-on-one reading support for students in grades 1-3. The program is run by volunteers, and we’re always looking for more tutors!
Info: Contact Monica at msmith@ci.sandy.or.us
Art Exhibits
Hoodland Library Featuring a beautiful quilt made by a member of the local Hoodland Piecemakers group. Also enjoy rotating exhibits from Clackamas County artists.
Sandy Library: The current group art show by Creation Station members is on display through March 15, followed by an exhibition from the Fiber Arts group. Don’t miss out on these wonderful community art displays!
Sandy Edible Gardening Group
Monday, Mar 24, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Share the highs and lows of edible gardening with your neighbors as we swap tips, timelines, strategies, and resources. This group is open to all - whether you are just starting out or gardening year ‘round. Together we’ll go from seed to maximizing the bounty of the harvest.
Hoyt Community Room in the Sandy Library
Info: Maureen at mhouck@ci.sandy.or.us
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
Curbside Delivery of hold items is available. Call us from the parking lot during our open hours, provide your library card number, and we will check your items out and bring them to you.
Mobile Printing is available from your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Send what you need printed to the library using one of our mobile printing options, then come to the library during our open hours to print your documents. Info: ci.sandy.or.us/ library/page/mobile-printing-princh
The Sandy and Hoodland Library’s newsletter is being emailed on a monthly basis. Call us or email libraryassistants@ ci.sandy.or.us if you would like to be added to the mailing list. Or follow our blog at sandylibrary.blogspot.com/2024/ eCards: If you don’t already have a LINCC library card, you may apply for an eCard by visiting lincc.org. An eCard grants immediate access to on-line resources, including eBooks and eAudiobooks. You may also place up to five physical items on hold, but must upgrade to a full library card with your current photo ID and proof of address (if not on your ID) to check them out. eCards are available to all residents of the LINCC Library District (Clackamas County), ages 13 and up. 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.
The Cultural Pass program offers passes to cultural venues so you can treat the family to a free or discounted adventure. Visit culturalpassexpress.quipugroup.net/. Some SAM/STAR and MT HOOD EXPRESS bus passes may be purchased at the libraries, including the SAM/ STAR 24-ride punch pass and a pack of five individual ride tokens, and SAM and MT HOOD EXPRESS daily unlimited ride passes.
Check out these Facebook groups for more information on what’s happening at the libraries: City of Sandy, Oregon – City Government Sandy Public Library – Friends Sandy & Hoodland Libraries - Storytime Parents Group
From Sandy to New Zealand, Mystery Package Spurs Long Distance Trip
By Teresa Sullivan
For The Mountain Times
My suspense was overflowing. I was standing in the kitchen with scissors poised to cut the strings and open the package in my hand. My husband walked around the corner and gasped “You can’t open that! You need to let Sid do it!” The package was clearly a newspaper rolled up and wrapped tightly in paper which had yellowed from age. My late father Wayne Fuller addressed the paper to Sydney Poole years before. There were but two thin kite strings between me and knowing what was inside. I stared at it as the anticipation of seeing the contents melted away. He was right. I decided at once that I was going to make a trip to New Zealand to deliver it. That was November of 2023.
Why New Zealand, you ask? Well, I must give you a brief family history. My grandfather Vinton Fuller worked in the shipyards repairing battleships that had been damaged at Pearl Harbor. He joined the navy in 1942. My grandmother Elicia (Jean) Running was born in Northern Ireland. At eight years old her family moved to New Zealand. I was told that they picked New Zealand because there were no snakes. Sounds like a wise choice to me. She was a nurse and met my grandfather on a blind date. They were married, and shortly after their first son John was born. Jean had a large family. She had 10 siblings. It must have been hard for her when they moved to the United States in 1946.
Later that same year
Vinton and Jean’s second child Wayne was born. This is the part where I come in. He was my father. I have been a resident of Sandy since 2006. We moved Wayne from his Portland home to the Avamere care facility in 2015 so he would be closer to me. He passed away in his sleep in 2017. He also had a younger sister named Diane. I have met several of my Kiwi relatives over the years. Some visited when I was young and others more recently. With the wonders of the internet and social media, I get updates often. I met Sid (Sydney) when I was young and saw him again about five years ago. So I knew who he was when I saw his name on the package. He is my dad’s cousin. I sent him a message via Facebook, and the planning started right away. I began looking at the weather, best seasons to visit, and making sure the people I wanted to see would be available at those times. My thoughts became consumed by the package. I kept looking at my father’s handwriting and the address it was originally going to be mailed from. The way my father signed his own name seemed foreign to me. He never wrote his name with that type of print that I ever recall seeing. The address it was originally to be mailed from was not one that I recognized either. I went down a rabbit hole searching for answers.
When my father passed, I acquired many of his things. I pulled out an old wood suitcase and rummaged through the contents. The suitcase
has my grandmother’s name and address on the outside. I was told this case made her original trip from New Zealand to Oregon. Currently it is piled to the brim with old photos and childhood memories. Many of the items contained my dad’s handwriting. He was a track star at Madison High School. He had many ribbons, pictures, and news articles with his name on them. I flipped over the large M patch made for a letterman jacket and noticed that the handwriting matched the style on the package! I also noticed that his childhood handwriting practice pages looked the same as well. I began to wonder if he was just a child when this package was wrapped! Next, I opened my dad’s old military trunk. He was in the Army and spent time in Alaska and Vietnam. Inside was an old dress uniform, piles and piles of pictures, patches, pins, slides, and a whole shoebox full of letters he had written to my grandparents. I noticed a couple of the return addresses on the letters also matched the strange way he wrote his name on the package. I ended up reading all those letters. I wish I had read them when he was still alive. I would have had many questions. It was amazing to know more about what he went through at that time of his life.
I decided that I needed to reach out to my uncle John to find out the significance of the return address. He was a wealth of knowledge. The amount of information that he can recite on gene-
alogy, dates, history, and places without looking up any notes is impressive. He said they lived at that address from 1956 to 1964. Meaning that my dad was somewhere between 10 and 18 years old when the package was wrapped. Other than that information, I was just going to have to wait to find out until it was delivered.
Taking a trip to New Zealand is not as easy as just buying a (17 hour) plane ticket. Ugh! I don’t like flying to begin with and there are a lot of steps. I asked my daughter, son, and his fiance to go with me. That meant all those steps were done four times! I knew this would likely be a once-ina-lifetime trip for me so we had a packed schedule for all of our stay. We had lots of family to visit and many sights to see. With the amount of the country I wanted to cover, there was a lot of planning time involved. There is no way I could have thrown together plans to be there in a short amount of time.
Finally, on November 23rd, 2024, I stuffed the mystery package in my carry-on and hopped on a plane headed for Auckland. There is a considerable time difference between our countries. We left on a Saturday evening, and arrived on Monday morning at 6:00 AM. That long flight gave me a lot of time for reflection. My dad passed just after his 70th birthday. He talked about family history a lot and there was much family pride for him in that place. I broke down thinking about the fact that I was there without him. He did visit once when he was eight but always wanted to go back. My happy tears flowed when the plane touched down.
Once we arrived at the airport and got through customs, we stopped at the bottom of some stairs. We were discussing where we were headed
next when a man came up and gave me a strange look. We both paused and stared for a minute before I cautiously asked, “Sid?”
He gave me a huge smile in return and went in for a big hug. The kids stood there staring and wondering who this stranger was so I introduced him. Sid gave everyone that same big hug and then walked us over to the rental car area. He said he was going home to pick up his wife and would meet us at his daughter Ali’s house.
Shortly after we were all seated at a table together, and I handed Sid the package. We watched as he carefully cut the strings with scissors, as I had wanted to a full year before. The newspaper, having been curled tight for so many years, did not want to lay flat. We each carefully held a side and began to read. The paper was a copy of The Oregonian. The headline read PANORAMA OF A CENTURY, OREGON OR BUST. The dateline, Wednesday. February 11, 1959. The subtitles read Migration, Exploration, and Discovery of
our state between 1859 and 1959. There were articles about ‘The good ole days,’ ‘Union Pacific,’ and ‘Why we should be proud of Oregon,’ and ads for ‘Sears’ and ‘Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty on Broadway.’ Sid and I carefully looked through every page of that paper. Sid said he would enjoy looking at it again later with his son.
I was awed. At 13 years of age, my dad was wanting to share our Oregon history with his cousin in New Zealand. Here I was doing just that in his place 64 years later. It felt as though things had come full circle and I was complete. Each day of our trip after that was a new adventure. Many sights were seen, and many memories were made, but that first day was my absolute favorite. Thank you for letting me share my adventure with you, of “Going There and Back Again.”
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MT. HOOD CULTURAL CENTER & MUSEUM
Visitor Services Assistant, open position The Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum is excited to hire a Visitor Services Assistant in Government Camp, OR. This person will greet visitors and provide information on local outdoor activities, dining, and attractions. Responsibilities include managing daily operations, assisting in the store, and handling office tasks. The ideal candidate will be professional, organized, and customer-service oriented. The assistant will work with a small team and report to the museum manager. To view a list of major duties, required skills, knowledge and abilities, go to: Employment Opportunities | Mount Hood Museum. Compensation: $20/Hour with PTO after 90 days of employment. Email your resume to: info@mthoodmusuem.org. In the subject line, note: Visitor Services Position.
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Complete marketing solutions. Websites, logos, print & digital ads, social media, lead generation, and more. Affordable rates and local discounts! Call 503-453-3388 or visit cohomarketing.com
Help is just a phone call away: Let Wy’East Computer Solutions proven software, hardware, and networking experience save the day! The area’s MOST TRUSTED COMPTIA A+ Certified computer support professional at the area’s MOST REASONABLE rates! No charge for idle time related to downloads or running processes.
CLIENT REFERENCES AVAILABLE. Call 503.622.9183 or Email ryan@wyeastcs.com TODAY!
TNT CARPET CLEANING
Residential and Commercial Carpet and upholstery cleaning. Dryer vent cleaning 503-705-0503 Tntcarpetcleaning.com
CAROL’S COMPLETE CLEANING. Cleaning from Sandy to Government Camp since 1991. Specializing in Residential and Commercial. 503-622-1142
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
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
Customized indoor gardens, Vacation rental housekeeping services, and much more. Call for details and free estimates. Landscapes and indoor gardens
Vacation rental housekeeping 971-571-4964
Serving Mt. Communities Welches/Rhododendron/Brightwood Government Camp areas
Stanley Augustin 1958–2025
Stanley Augustin Osborne (Gus) died peacefully on the morning of January 25, 2025 at his home in Rhododendron, Oregon following
DAVID PARKER
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passion.
One of David’s passions was racing. He participated in events like the Tecate to Ensenada bicycle race and outfitted a truck that he and Robin drove in the Baja 1000 and other SCORE races. Together, they raised their two daughters, Britney and Chelsey. David enjoyed sharing his love for speed with his girls, taking them boating, boarding and off-roading.
David worked in the automotive industry before dutifully returning to manage his family’s company, Metric Machining. David and Robin, however, had their hearts set on living in Oregon. They moved to Lake Oswego in 1995 and then to West Linn in 2001. David continued as
a valiant battle against cancer. He was born on August 16, 1958 in Charleston, South Carolina. He was a 1976 graduate of Foley High School. Gus completed nursing school at Mobile College, and he served as an emergency room nurse at Mobile Infirmary in Mobile, Alabama and South Baldwin Hospital in Foley, Alabama. In Oregon, he used his nursing background to support medical personnel in need of vocational rehabilitation for PHC. Gus was well known for his love of music and his amazing talent as a
guitarist. His Gulf Coast friends will remember Gus playing in bands and performing all along the Eastern Shore and in Mobile, through the 1970s and 1980s. He continued his love of music and performed his whole life. It was truly breathtaking to listen to him play. He was a very kind person and a great father, who also taught his sons how to be good men and good fathers. Gus is survived by his sons, Frank Augustin Osborne (Kara) of Mobile, Alabama, Thomas Maxwell Osborne, Nicholas Greer
Newman (Mo) and Joseph Daniel Williams of Portland, Oregon; grandsons Nathaniel Augustin Osborne of Mobile, Alabama and Dalton Newman of Portland, Oregon; great grandson Poppy Newman of Portland, Oregon; sister Alyce Osborne Watts (Tim) of Hoschton, Georgia; nephews Tucker Ingram Watts of Macon, Georgia and Daniel Murphy Watts of Flowery Branch, Georgia; aunt Annie Magruder Tindal of Macon Mississippi and cousins Lisan Tindal Woods (Bill) of Brandon, Mississippi, Catherine Tindal Penick (Ray) of Macon, Mississippi, Serge Rich, of Gulf Shores, Alabama, Dennis Rich, and Ashley Rich, of Mobile, Alabama; uncle Herb Rich (Janette) of Gulf Shores, Alabama.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Katie Steele Osborne, and his parents, James Stanley Osborne and Elizabeth Magruder Osborne.
Further notification will be sent once the arrangements are finalized.
Gary Peck 1941–2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Gene Peck, who died suddenly on Friday January 17, 2025. A longtime resident of Welches, OR, Gary was born in Evansville Indiana on March 23, 1941, to parents Ernest and Lillian Peck.
Growing up, Gary excelled both academically as well as athletically, particularly in baseball where he was a tenacious third baseman and feared hitter from both sides of the plate. Proud of his notable 30-year career at Hewlett Packard, he retired as North Asia Region Manager International Procurement, after
3 years spent living abroad in Hong Kong. He held an MBA from the University of Oregon and was a mathematics graduate of his beloved Butler University (go Bulldogs!). Gary was also a veteran of the United States Air Force.
Gary lived to spend time with his family and friends, always taking joy in receiving guests with his infectious smile, quick wit, and a sincere warm welcome. Gary was a prodigious reader and traveler, having visited more than 30 countries, for both business and pleasure. He made lasting friendships everywhere he went. He was most proud of his 58-year marriage to his wife Jeanette, for whom he had unwavering love and romance.
Gary is survived by his wife Jeanette, his sons Todd and Brett, Brett’s wife Rhonda, and his sister Sherry Ostheimer and her husband Bob. He is preceded in death by his parents Ernest & Lillian Peck.
Gary will be interned at Willamette National Cemetery.
CEO of Metric, working remotely, and in 2019 they settled in Rhododendron, embracing mountain life. David became a familiar face in the community, often coaxing Robin out to local restaurants and bars to socialize.
When Robin pursued her dream of opening a restaurant, David fully supported her. He delegated the daily operations of his company to a trusted friend so he could help Robin bring Chicali Cantina to life. David’s creative spirit shone brightly in the tequila bottle pendant lights he handcrafted for the bar. A natural storyteller, he delighted in going table to table, sharing Dum-Dums lollipops and tales of pride about his wife and the restaurant.
David Scott Parker will be remembered for his commitment to his family and their dreams. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the stories he shared. A celebration of David’s life is planned for Tuesday March 11th from 12-2 PM at Chicali Cantina.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Mt. Hood Lions Club: Mountain Roar
By Lion, Milt Fox
For The Mountain Times BINGO
Thank you for continuing to make this year’s Bingo season a successful one. We’ve been averaging about 65 players per evening, according to Lion Bingo Chair Carol Norgard. Thanks to Lion Jim Espenel who plowed our parking lot – Jim loves operating his little tractor Kermit. I should also thank all of those Lions who work Bingo for about 30 Friday nights per year. Remember, doors open at 6:00pm and Bingo starts at 7:00pm. The proceeds from Bingo go to help fund our scholarship program and many other club projects.Thank you again
for your support.
LASAGNA DRIVE THRU DINNER:
Thank you for attending our Lasagna Drive Thru Dinner on Saturday February 22nd. The snow was gone, and we had a good turnout, serving lots of lasagna, salad, and garlic bread. We received lots of great compliments. Thanks to Welches Clackamas County Bank, Welches Mountain Building Supply, Coffee House 26, and the Whistle Stop Tavern for the sale of our presale tickets. We also thank St. Michael’s Catholic Church for the use of kitchen ware. All of the proceeds raised from this dinner helped to fund the upkeep of our clubhouse.
JIM TURIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER:
Our next fundraising dinner will be the Jim Turin Memorial Scholarship Dinner, Saturday, April 5th. We’ll be serving some of Lion Jim’s famous Italian recipes. More to come in next month’s column.
BUSY SPRING AND SUMMER COMING UP:
We are going to be very busy this spring and early summer, as nominations and elections are held in March and April: installation happens in June. Throw in a couple of fundraisers and work parties – and swimming lessons at Camp Arrah Wanna the last two weeks in June – and we will be flush with activities. David and Patti Buoy, take note! Then there’s the Chuckwagon Breakfast. All Lions need to know about this: it’s been around since 1958. We’ve got a lot to do!
RUMOR CONTROL!
A couple of months ago I mentioned in this column something about all of the wood chips that are piled up in our parking lot. I got no response from anyone. Then, at our last meeting, Lion Carol Norgard asked about the wood chips and the greenhouse in our parking lot. Lion President David Anderson has a plan and a green paw. He intends to do some landscaping that will include trees and shrubs, utilizing some of the wood chips. Some of you may remember the Begonia Gardens in Rhododendron, where the Dairy Queen is now? Those gardens were operated by Lion Marc Closner’s grandmother. Marc also has a green paw. Marc and David will be growing various plants and vegetable starts in the greenhouse. It’s great to be a Lion in the know!
Become a TIP Volunteer
WHAT IS A TIP VOLUNTEER?
TIP Volunteers support family members and friends following: suicides, natural or unexpected deaths, drownings, motor vehicle fatalities, victims of fires and crimes, witnesses to crimes and those affected by violence.
WHAT IS TIPNW?
Trauma Intervention Program NW, founded in 1992, is a group of specially trained and thoroughly screened volunteers who provide emotional and practical support to victims of traumatic events and their families in the first few hours following a
tragedy. TIP Volunteers respond immediately to any crisis 24-hours a day, 365-days a year, averaging 180 calls per month.
BECOME A TIP VOLUNTEER
Please visit our website to register and read our Training Academy Requirements, including: Background checks, Fingerprinting, Auto insurance, DMV Record, Attend CE Meetings, Volunteer for three (3) 12-hour shifts/month. Register for training: WWW.TIPNW.ORG or call (503) 823-3937. TIPNW is located at 4800 NE 122ND Avenue, Portland, OR 97230.
Be a light in the darkness... Become a TIP Volunteer.
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 emotion support to citizens on the worst day of their lives.
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
We want you to join our Hoodland TIP team! Learn more online at tipnw.org or call 503-823-3937
Robin Ekloff Owner
Spring Brunch Fundraiser to Support Meals on Wheels
By Brittany Kintigh
For The Mountain Times
The Hoodland Senior Center is excited to announce a special event to support the popular Meals on Wheels program! On March 9th from 10:001:00pm, the Senior Center will host a Spring Brunch fundraiser at Alpine Events in Rhododendron. This event will not only celebrate the arrival of spring but also raise money for a very important cause: providing meals to local seniors in
need and helping all our local seniors live life to the fullest.
March is also Meals on Wheels month, which makes this fundraiser even more special.
The Meals on Wheels program has been growing fast, helping more seniors each year. These meals are delivered right to the doors of people who may not be able to cook for themselves, ensuring they have healthy food to eat.
Tickets for the Spring Brunch are $25 per person if purchased in
advance, and $30 at the door on the day of the event. The brunch will include delicious spring-themed food, drinks, and a chance to meet other community members who care about helping seniors. It’s a great way to enjoy some tasty treats while supporting a worthy cause.
If you want to attend the fundraiser, you can buy tickets at three locations: the Welches Clackamas County Bank, Welches Mountain Building Supply, and the Hoodland Senior Center. Remember to get your tickets early to save a little money, as the price goes
up if you buy them at the door.
This event is a fantastic way to get involved and make a difference in your community. Every ticket sold will help the Meals on Wheels program continue to provide meals and support for seniors in the area.
Mark your calendar for March 9th, and join the Hoodland Senior Center for a fun and meaningful event! Let’s make this fundraiser a big success and show how much we care about our senior neighbors.
