http://www.hoodrivernews.com/ Stories from the Hood River News (c)2012, Eagle Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved http://www.hoodrivernews.com/images/iologo2.jpg Courtney's cozy-ees: Parkdale teen turns life challenge into comfort for others http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8799/courtneys-cozy-ees-parkdale-teen-turns-life-challenge-into-comfort-for-others Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:37:44 GMT 8799 Check out new casino Saturday, Feb. 4, the tribes at Warm Springs opened their new temporary casino in the city of Warm Springs, on the highway, a joyous occasion for the tribes. It's architecturally a reflection of Celilo Falls, designed to be subtly understated with no sign of bright lights or neon. The colors help it blend in to its surroundings much as the museum across the highway does. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8798/letters-to-the-editor-for-february-18-2012 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:22:11 GMT 8798 After the January storm, in this space we described the varying ways to get rid of broken trees and debris "as opportunities for both cleanup and revival." Yet another such opportunity presents itself now. It's not for the organic stuff, but for those used goods that might need clearing out of the garage or basement. The 47th annual Pine Grove Fire Department auction is coming March 3, and the firefighters could use donations that are in working order. Appliances, toys, furniture, antiques, tools, vehicles, farm or household items and garden equipment are just some of the categories. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8797/editorial-pine-grove-fd-can-use-your-help Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:21:16 GMT 8797 A bridge to Belgium starts two miles south of Odell. Brewmaster Dave Logsdon and the rest of the team at Logsdon Farmhouse Ales will hold their first public event on Feb. 18, as one of three local stops on the statewide Zwickelmania brewery tour (see details at right). It's a sort of first-anniversary party for the brewery, which released its first beers in February 2011. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8790/at-logsdon-ales-for-every-seizoen Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8790 Governor Kitzhaber sent a formal request Thursday to President Obama asking for a federal disaster declaration due to statewide damage caused by severe winter storms in mid-January. Hood River County was added to a list of 12 counties in Oregon that incurred enough damage during the weather event to qualify for Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance. In all, the week of intense snow, rain, ice, flooding and landslides caused tens of millions of dollars in damage in the 12 counties. Gov. Kitzhaber's office reported eligible public costs for the disaster at about $16.3 million statewide, as well as another $19.5 million in federal highway damage. In Hood River County, damage to public infrastructure was estimated at $1.5 million. The figure is an estimate of damage to certain services and public agencies and does not include damage to private businesses or homes. The lion's share of the estimate came from Hood River Electric Co-op for significant damage to power lines and poles, the City of Hood River for expenses related to dealing with a landslide that threatened the city water line and Farmers Irrigation District for electrical damage and revenue lost from halting hydroelectricity production. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8791/fema-funds-expected-after-storm-damage Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8791 Following in the footsteps of inventive Hood River Valley High School music and drama productions, Hood River Middle School teens and teachers are simultaneously bringing to life a new musical and opening a new chapter at HRMS. According to HRMS music teacher Rebecca Nederhiser, this is the first full-scale musical to be done at the middle school in anyone's recent memory, and may be the first ever. In a partnership with Mark Steighner, mentor musical director from HRVHS, Nederhiser is undertaking her own first musical as a teacher and director. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8792/hrms-opens-the-book-on-princess-slob Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8792 Apparently, sin is no longer a spiritual matter to be absolved between a soul and its maker. In fact, one New Orleans-based whiskey producer is claiming special rights to both the word and concept. According to a recent lawsuit filed against Hood River Distillers - who released a new cinnamon-flavored libation called "SinFire Cinnamon Whisky" this month - the use of the word "sin" and packaging similarities allegedly violate a trademark held by Sazerac Inc. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8793/liquor-dispute-asks-who-has-the-rights-to-sin Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8793 With their season winding to a close, the Hood River Valley girls basketball team is trying to find some positive momentum before the playoffs start. The Eagles played well against Hermiston Tuesday night, but not nearly good enough to beat the hot-shooting Bulldogs. Anytime the Eagles (9-12, 2-8 CRC) did anything wrong, the Bulldogs (17-5, 10-0 CRC) punished them with a three-pointer. Anytime the Eagles did anything right, the Bulldogs responded with a three-pointer. Or at least that was the way it seemed. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8794/eagle-girls-search-for-momentum-in-final-games Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8794 HERMISTON - A slow start by the Horizon Christian School girls basketball team proved too much to overcome, as the Hawks lost to Ione 41-21 in Thursday's first round of the Big Sky playoffs at Hermiston High School. Meantime, later in the evening, the fourth-ranked Horizon boys team jumped out to a 17-0 lead en route to a 70-36 first-round win against Condon-Wheeler. Horizon played Ione in Friday night's 7:30 p.m. semifinal game. The Hawk girls, who made a late-season run to qualify for district play, fell behind early in their contest and couldn't recover. Horizon was hurt by turnovers (18 in the game's first 10 minutes) and poor shooting (1-for-13 in the first two periods), which enabled Ione to take a 16-2 halftime lead. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8795/hawk-boys-advance-girls-out-at-district Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8795 I don't know how or why exactly but at some point during high school, my basketball team became obsessed with the quote "Go big or go home." It pretty much became the end-all-questions statement for anything we did. Why on earth did you take that ridiculous three-pointer which just banked in? "Hey, go big or go home." http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8796/bens-babbles-go-big-or-go-home Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:40:10 GMT 8796 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8789/photo-of-the-day Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:20:23 GMT 8789 Emcee Michael Thompson told the jokes but Rep. Mark Johnson put the Chamber in stitches. The Chamber of Commerce, Johnson said, is the "seamstress" of the local economy. Johnson spoke briefly to start Friday's Hood River Chamber of Commerce Member Appreciation Banquet at the Gorge Room at Best Western Hood River Inn, before turning the podium over to Thompson and Chamber Executive Director Kerry Cobb for the evening's comedy (see story, page A2). http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8780/at-chamber-celebration-rep-mark-johnson-says-he-likes-the-cut-of-hood-rivers-cloth Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8780 CASCADE LOCKS - In a wide-ranging meeting Monday, City Council decided to take what it calls the "development approach" in finding a buyer for the long-dormant old fire hall on WaNaPa Street. Real estate firms in Portland will be invited to take a look at marketing the city's old fire hall. City Council decided on one of four options for proceeding with marketing the fire hall. Council decided against paying for a $3,400 appraisal on the property, one which might need to be done again in six months, opting instead for going directly to realty firms in Portland. Interim administrator Paul Koch said he consulted with the firms on the phone and learned that the brokers know the community and have "a high interest" in helping market the property. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8781/cascade-locks-city-council-moves-on-marketing-old-fire-hall Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8781 If your electric vehicle is running low on juice, but you still have things to do in downtown Hood River, the City of Hood River will soon have a solution for you. The city is hopping on the electric vehicle trend by installing two parking spots near downtown with electric vehicle charging stations. Two spots in the parking lot at Columbia and Seventh, across the street from Hood River Cinemas, will be outfitted with electric vehicle charging stations by AeroVironment Solution Inc. of Monrovia, Calif. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8782/city-of-hood-river-approves-installation-of-electric-vehicle-charging-station Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8782 After months of back-and-forth negotiations the City of Hood River and the Oregon Department of Transportation appear to have reached a compromise on the re-alignment of Country Club Road. The county had requested that ODOT provide $3 million in a lump sum payment for the project up front, while ODOT had insisted on reimbursing project costs up to $3 million. After discussions with Key Development, the contractor which will be handling the project, the city determined that cash flow would not be an issue and that both could live with reimbursements. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8783/compromise-reached-on-country-club-rd-realignment-project Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8783 The "tapestry" analogy about the Hood River economy, as ventured by Mark Johnson on page A1, is an appealing and, mostly, appropriate one. Not to correct Rep. Johnson, but the quilt image might be more to the point. Either way, the fabric idea of a diverse and vibrant economy is a point well taken. A tapestry being a single piece of cloth with a single story or image woven in, a quilt being a multi-piece assemblage of fabric. Johnson is right that there is much to be optimistic about: Hood River County's unemployment is a percentage point less than the state average (while gas prices are a good seven percent higher. Hmmm.) . http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8784/editorial-local-econmy-tapestry-or-quilt-the-connecting-analogy-fits Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8784 What a joke The five biggest banks got $200 billion in bailouts, made $46 billion in profits and are paying $5 billion in cash to settle all claims. My sister lost 20 acres because the bank wouldn't refinance it. What good is $1,500 going to do? What a joke. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8785/letters-to-the-editor-for-february-15-2012 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8785 The girls are ready to rock. The Hood River Valley swim team is sending a delegation of eight competitors to the state swimming championships this weekend, seven of them girls. The big day by the HRV girls was capped by winning the Columbia River Conference girls swimming title. Pendleton won the boys title and the combined team title. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8786/bold-moves-pay-off-for-hrv-girls-swimming-with-league-title Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8786 Deion Davis scored 23 points and the Pendleton Buckaroos rolled to a 74-32 over the Hood River Valley boys basketball team Friday night. The Eagles were already down 15 points at the end of the first quarter, which ended on a succession of big plays for Hermiston. First Davis came up with a steal and a dunk, then seconds later he got another steal which he fed up the court to Chaz Madsen for a lay-up at the buzzer. Davis nearly outscored HRV by himself in the first half, finishing with 14 points to the Eagles' 15. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8787/bucks-top-eagle-hoops-teams Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8787 Following a disappointing loss one day earlier, the Horizon Christian girls basketball team came back to get an impressive win in their final regular season game to gain momentum in preparation for the Class 1A Big Sky Conference District Playoffs. The Horizon Christian Hawks boys basketball team also bounced back from a tough loss one day earlier and played one of their best games of the year in a final regular season matchup against Griswold. After a 16-point lead nearly evaporated in the third quarter for the Hawk girls, Horizon (11-13 overall, 8-7 Big Sky West) responded with an incredible fourth quarter. The Hawks, guided by coach Stan Perkins, outscored the lowly Griswold Grizzlies (3-21, 2-12 Big Sky East) 17-2 in the final eight minutes to pull away in a 46-28 win on Senior Night last Saturday at Horizon Christian High School. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8788/hawks-on-to-district-just-not-in-the-spots-they-wanted Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:25:46 GMT 8788 Join the live chat from the first day of the state wrestling championships in Portland at the Memorial Coliseum, Feb. 24, 2012. Wall-to-Wall Wrestling 2012 Day 1 http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8777/wall-to-wall-wrestling-2012-day-1 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:51:49 GMT 8777 Join in the live chat at day 2 of the state wrestling championships at the Memorial Coliseum in Portland, February 25, 2012. Wall-to-Wall Wrestling 2012 Day 2 http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8778/wall-to-wall-wrestling-2012-day-2 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:51:49 GMT 8778 Photos of HRV swimmers at the state swim meet at Mt. Hood Community College, Feb. 18, 2012. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8779/slide-show-state-swim-photos Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:51:49 GMT 8779 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8776/photo-of-the-day Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:27:52 GMT 8776 Barbara Jean (Barb) Harder died of age-related causes at her home in Eugene, Ore., on Feb. 17, 2012. Barb was a longtime resident of Hood River, Ore., where she was born on the family farm near the old Barrett School on Aug. 10, 1931. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Audry Colvin. She attended schools in Hood River and graduated from Hood River High School in 1949. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8772/obituary-barbara-harder Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:48:28 GMT 8772 William Henry Bayless, 83, passed away at Parkhurst House in Hood River, Ore., on Feb. 16, 2012. Bill was born on Oct. 1, 1928, in El Centro, Calif., the son of Mary Turner Bayless and Henry Roberts Bayless. Days following his birth, the family returned to their home and family homestead in Tempe, Ariz., where Bill was raised until 1945 at which time they moved to Hood River, Ore. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8773/obituary-bill-bayless Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:48:28 GMT 8773 Charles Kennedy passed away in Cascade Locks, Ore., on Feb. 19, 2012. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals, Receptions, Cremations), 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8774/death-notice-charles-kennedy Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:48:28 GMT 8774 Bernette Frigaard passed away in Hood River, Ore., on Feb. 18, 2012. Bernette was born April 15, 1919. There will be a service on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 11 a.m. at the Our Redeemer Lutheran church on Tucker Road. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8775/death-notice-bernette-frigaard Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:48:28 GMT 8775 Clifford Lester Clifford "Cliff" Alden Lester, 96, of Hood River, Ore., passed away quietly in his sleep Feb. 9, 2012, at his home in Odell, Ore. Cliff was born July 11, 1915, on Eastside Road in Hood River to Jesse Dixon Lester and Anna Margaret Wells Lester. He married Lorena Alice Dikeman at Pine Grove Church in Hood River on April 14, 1940, and started an adventure together that would produce a daughter, two grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and a long life full of great memories. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8771/obituary-clifford-lester Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:36:17 GMT 8771 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8770/photo-of-the-day Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:46:35 GMT 8770 Jim Weseman, 81, passed on Feb. 13, 2012, at the Providence Hospital in Portland, Ore. Jimme Jerald Weseman was born in Archie, Mo., on April 25, 1930, to Bill and Nadine Weseman. Jim is survived by his wife, Cleo; four sons: Tony, Chuck, Mike and Trent; his daughter, Jennifer; brother Billie; sister Peggy Robinson; eight grand children and eight great-grandchildren. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8765/obituary-jim-weseman Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8765 Clifford "Cliff" Alden Lester, 96, of Hood River, Ore., passed away quietly in his sleep Feb. 9, 2012, at his home in Odell, Ore. Cliff was born July 11, 1915, on Eastside Road in Hood River to Jesse Dixon Lester and Anna Margaret Wells Lester. He married Lorena Alice Dikeman at Pine Grove Church in Hood River on April 14, 1940, and started an adventure together that would produce a daughter, two grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and a long life full of great memories. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8766/obituary-clifford-lester Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8766 Cdr. Jean Milton Fitts, USN (Ret.), passed away on Feb. 9, 2012, in Hood River, Ore. Jean was born Oct. 11, 1927, in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was the youngest son of Albert L. and Eurice D. Fitts. He received his elementary and secondary education in the local public schools, then after graduation at age 17, enlisted in the United States Navy. Following training at Great Lakes SSC he served in USS Franklin D. Roosevelt as a MM3 before appointment from the Fleet to the United States Naval Academy by Secretary of the Navy James V. Forrestal. He entered the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1948. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8767/obituary-jean-fitts Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8767 Barbara Jean Harder, 80, passed away in Eugene, Ore., on Feb. 17, 2012. She was born Aug. 10, 1931. Services are pending with arrangements under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center, 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8768/death-notice-barbara-harder Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8768 William "Bill" Henry Bayless, 83, passed away at Parkhurst House of Hood River on Feb. 16, 2012. Bill was born Oct. 1, 1928. Services are pending with arrangements under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center, 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8769/death-notice-bill-bayless Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8769 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8764/photo-of-the-day Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:45:15 GMT 8764 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8763/photo-of-the-day Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:07:19 GMT 8763 http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8761/photo-of-the-day Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:34:41 GMT 8761 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8762/photo-of-the-day Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:34:41 GMT 8762 Ricky L. Younkins, 44, died at his home in Las Vegas, Nev., on Feb. 11, 2012. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Ricky moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, with his family, where he attended school and graduated with honors from West Valley High School in 1985. Ricky was active in wrestling, track and karate. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8758/obituary-ricky-younkins Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8758 Jimmie Weseman, 81, passed away at Providence Medical Center in Portland, Ore., on Feb. 13, 2012. Services are pending with arrangements under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersons http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8759/death-notice-jimmie-weseman Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8759 Clifford Lester passed away at his home in Odell on Feb. 9, 2012. Clifford was born July 11, 1915, in Hood River, Ore. A service is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Anderson's Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. A reception will follow and then interment at the Pine Grove Butte Cemetery. Celebrant Speaker Bob Huskey will officiate. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8760/death-notice-clifford-lester Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:08:15 GMT 8760 January 25, 2012 Kaleidescope Photos by Kirby Neumann-Rea, Adam Lapierre and Julie Raefield-Gobbo Design by Adam Lapierre. Freeze frames from an epic ice storm (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "http://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })(); http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8757/freeze-frames-from-an-epic-storm Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:58:04 GMT 8757 February 1, 2012 Kaleidescope. Photos, story and design by Adam Lapierre. Stories of Success: OHDC helps farm workers and families (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "http://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })(); . http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8756/stories-of-success-ohdc-helps-farm-workers-and-families Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:52:49 GMT 8756 February 8, 2012 Kaleidescope Story by Julie Raefield-Gobbo Photos and design by Adam Lapierre Private Eyes: A glimpse at love and lust, truth and trust (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "http://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })(); http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8755/private-eyes-a-glimpse-at-love-and-lust-truth-and-trust Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:48:22 GMT 8755 They were married in 1960. American Bandstand was all the rage for teens and Elvis was featured on the Frank Sinatra show. President Eisenhower had just signed the Civil Rights Act. Young men could be found out racing souped-up cars and young women were kept pretty close to home. Lindamay and Roger Woosley, now married 51 years, met in 1958 at a homecoming dance at Hood River High School. Roger had already graduated and Linda was a sophomore. Roger swept Lindamay around the dance floor, his signature dance moves impressing his date. Maybe the chart-topping "Kathy's Clown" by the Everly Brothers was one of the tunes. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8744/51-years-of-love-and-counting-a-valentines-vignette Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8744 On Jan. 17, Merideth Cole, bus driver for the Hood River County School District, was injured when her bus rolled forward while she was repairing a broken tire chain. Cole was pinned by the door, trapping her between the bus and embankment as she attempted to get back on the moving bus. Four elementary students were on board. The incident happened just after 3 p.m. on Highway 35 near Odell. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8745/bus-driver-reunited-with-quick-thinking-students Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8745 With Valentine's Day just around the corner, many sweethearts and friends are looking for a special way to share their sentiments. Candy Land, the old-fashioned confection boutique, is back in business with some new, enthusiastic owners in a unique location. Roger and Lindamay Woosley, a couple whose long marriage may serve as an inspiration for Valentine's advice seekers, reopened Candy Land in their small shop at 1115 Hull St. in November. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8746/candy-land-offers-sweet-inspirations Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8746 Columbia Gorge Community College is a key player in regional educational opportunities for adults, high school graduates and anyone seeking education and training opportunities. Joining with Gov. Kitzhaber's recent intense focus on reforming Oregon's education system, CGCC intends on advancing its role in that effort. "At CGCC," noted Dr. Frank Toda, CGCC president, "we will continue to be a center of excellence for education because of our collaborative approaches, dedicated staff and support from our communities." http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8747/cgcc-on-track-with-state-goals Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8747 A new tool for building success in nonprofits is about to be launched in Hood River. Designed to provide a place to exchange information and resources, the Gorge Nonprofit Collaborative has slated four upcoming roundtable gatherings open to nonprofit organizations and their staff. "In response to the tremendous success of Gorge Nonprofit Day and the Executive Directors Roundtable," said Paul Lindberg, GNC founder, "we have developed a new, ongoing program ... It will be a chance to connect, collaborate and strengthen nonprofits in the Gorge." http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8748/gorge-nonprofit-forum-slated Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8748 In October 2000, "Bud" Collins suggested to Linda Adams that a scattered ashes memorial be established for the purpose of honoring veterans who were buried out of this country, cremated remains that were scattered at sea, favorite hunting grounds, fishing holes, backyards or on favorite mountains. History tells us that there is a memorial located at Idlewilde Cemetery, 980 Tucker Road in Hood River, for this purpose, but the deceased are not specifically identified as veterans. Linda presented the idea to Brian Johnson, caretaker of the cemetery at that time. He took the request to the board of directors and the request was granted. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8749/veterans-voice-a-proud-place-veterans-walk-of-honor Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8749 The outcome was not unexpected against Pendleton Wednesday, but that doesn't mean the Hood River Valley wrestling team was happy about it. The Pendleton Buckaroos defeated the Eagles 42-19 on the Eagles' senior night, the first of back-to-back dual meets for both teams. "They took away our offense and we didn't adjust," said HRV coach Trent Kroll. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8750/river-clash-cup-stays-in-hood-river-as-eagles-down-tdw Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8750 Every time the Portland Trail Blazers have lost the second game of a back-to-back this season, we have all heard on constant refrain: They are tired. We here how hard it is to play two games in two nights, often in different cities. Last week the Blazers pummeled the hapless Charlotte Bobcats at home; the next night they went to Sacramento to play the hapless Kings, and lost. Injuries must be taking their toll, said some. They must have looked past the Kings, said others. It's tough playing so many back-to-backs, added other excuse-mongers. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8751/bens-babbles-back-to-backs-may-be-hard-but-hawks-have-learned-to-deal Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8751 Katie Eddy has never taken the easy path during her high school wrestling career. She won't be taking an easy path in college either. Eddy signed her letter of intent earlier this month to wrestle at Oklahoma City University, which recently won its fourth consecutive Women's College Wrestling Association championship. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8752/eddy-signs-loi-to-wrestle-at-oklahoma-city-university Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8752 Friendly reminder Give bicyclists wide berth, please! As an avid biker, I pedal daily to work, to run errands, to attend local events or just as a healthy workout. Perhaps you've seen me about town on these frigid winter mornings or pedaling home in the pouring rain? http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8753/letters-to-editor-for-february-11-2012 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8753 Storm cleanup and repairs will be, for some folks, a long-term project. With the snow melting, we all get a much better view of just how many of our neighbors lost branches and whole trees. We'll really miss those trees when the budding and leafing happens this spring. But now in sight are opportunities for both cleanup and revival. n Home and business owners have more time to dispose, at no charge, of woody debris. Hood River County, the City of Hood River and Hood River Garbage Service established free drop-off sites for woody debris at several area locations in the wake of last week's winter storm; Feb. 24 is the final day to do so at no charge at the City of Hood River Public Works Yard, at 18th and May streets, and at the Hood River County materials yard on Dee Highway, one mile south of Lost Lake Road intersection. Hood River Garbage free brush drop-off occurs every Wednesday. Disposal at these locations will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Maximum size is 12 inches in diameter; no other types of waste such as appliances, household garbage, etc., will be accepted. In Cascade Locks, drop-off will be at the community burn pile on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8754/editorial-cleaning-up-from-the-storm Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:24 GMT 8754 Photos of HRV swimmers at the 2012 Columbia River Conference swim meet. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8743/photo-gallery-district-swim-meet Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:55:26 GMT 8743 In the battle of Horizon Christian School vs. Horizon Christian School, the Hawks won. Two teams with the same exact same school name and mascot got together for their first-ever meeting Tuesday in Hood River. Thankfully their uniforms were different colors. Horizon Christian (15-8, 10-2 3A West Valley) of Tualatin, a highly regarded 3A team, rolled past Horizon Christian (19-3, 10-2 1A Big Sky) of Hood River 67-52 in Hood River in a late-season non-league match-up designed to prepare both teams for the stretch run of the season. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8742/hawk-vs-hawk-as-oregons-two-horizon-christian-schools-meet-for-first-time Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:50:42 GMT 8742 For its next executive director, the bi-state Columbia River Gorge Commission reached into the senior ranks of the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development. Commissioners appointed Darren J. Nichols, a Salem resident, in late December as the successor to longtime executive director Jill Arens, who left the commission at the end of November after a nearly six-year term. Nichols, the commission's seventh executive director, is scheduled to assume the position full-time Feb. 27. The commission is charged with regulating land-use development in the General Management Areas of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8736/columbia-river-gorge-commission-hires-darren-nichols-as-new-executive-director Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8736 League records may not mean much anymore in terms of playoff qualifications, but that doesn't mean the Hood River Valley girls basketball team would not like a few wins in the closing weeks of the season. The Eagles saw a furious comeback fall just short against Pendleton Friday night after a turnover-plagued first three quarters put them in a big hole and fell 37-33. They took some of that frustration out on The Dalles-Wahtonka Monday night in The Dalles to regain some momentum. With her team struggling through a four-game losing streak, which put them in a tie for last place, Hood River Valley senior Megan Winans put the Eagles on her shoulders to get them back on course. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8737/eagle-girls-get-win-at-tdw-after-tough-loss-to-pendleton Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8737 Walmart realities Many writers have expressed concerns about the grocery sales aspect of a possible expansion and its negative impact on the two existing stores. Some realities exist which will not change in spite of the ultimate decision about the store's fate. My family shops in what most people consider the more expensive store in town. We are certainly not wealthy and do not like to waste our hard-earned money. We have made a personal choice to shop at this particular store because of the quality of the products and exceptional customer service. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8738/letters-to-the-editor-for-february-8-2012 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8738 Someone at a grocery store last week questioned that teenagers were putting "Stop" stickers on beer and wine. Why, they asked, are kids giving the rest of us advice? Why, indeed. The sale and use of alcohol, proper or improper, is a matter affecting people of all ages, and there are youth in our community, members of the Hood River Valley Health Media Club, who are better informed than most of us. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8739/editorial-above-the-influence Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8739 Gov. John Kitzhaber has appointed Anne Carloss, Director of Special Education for the Hood River County School District, to the Oregon Broadband Advisory Council. "I was surprised and honored," Carloss said, acknowledging that technology itself is not her background. "But they told me they absolutely want the perspective of the people who are really working in the trenches in education," she said. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8740/governor-names-local-educator-to-broadband-council Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8740 Hood River County District Attorney John Sewell will seek a sixth term as the county's top law enforcement official. "Hood River County voters will be able to re-elect an experienced and effective prosecutor," said Sewell, who has served this county through the district attorney's office the past 28 years, establishing and maintaining a variety of law enforcement programs. Sewell ran unopposed in 2008 and 2004, and prevailed in a tough three-candidate primary in 2000. One of those opponents, Brian Aaron, recently filed to run for district attorney in 2012. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8741/john-sewell-announces-bid-for-sixth-term-as-district-attorney Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:47:17 GMT 8741 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8735/photo-of-the-day Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:25:20 GMT 8735 A bright shining light, Mollie Rachel Lee, passed from this earth on Feb. 4, 2012, in Portland, Ore. Mollie was a beautiful, joyful woman with twinkling eyes, dark curly hair and smiling, rosy-red lips. She had boundless energy and enthusiasm, and a love of life. Many friends, far and wide, were attracted to her good wit, graciousness, and authenticity. Mollie was an extraordinarily warm, generous and loving friend. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8730/obituary-mollie-lee Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:55:39 GMT 8730 Former Hood River, Ore., resident Sterling Lee Kadlec was born in Suring, Wis., on May 11, 1927, to Edward and Goldie (Graham) Kadlec. He passed away at his home in The Dalles, Ore., on Feb. 7, 2012, at the age of 84. Sterling married Betty Level Slack on May 9, 1976. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8731/obituary-sterling-kadlec Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:55:39 GMT 8731 William L. Gramse passed away Jan. 30, 2012, in Woodburn, Ore. Bill was born Oct. 2, 1934, in Hood River, Ore., to Ernest L. "Larry" Gramse and Leta Bowerman, who were pioneers in the Hood River Valley. Bill graduated from Hood River High School in 1952. He graduated from Oregon State University with a bachelor's degree in forestry. He served in the U.S. Air Force in Korea. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8732/obituary-william-gramse Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:55:39 GMT 8732 Clifford Lester, 96, passed away Feb. 9, 2012, at his home in Odell, Ore. He was born July 11. 1915. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals, Receptions, Cremations), 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8733/death-notice-clifford-lester Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:55:39 GMT 8733 Jean Milton Fitts, 84, of Hood River, Ore., passed away Feb. 9, 2012, at Providence Brookside Manor. Jean was born Oct. 11, 1927. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals, Receptions, Cremations), 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8734/death-notice-jean-fitts Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:55:39 GMT 8734 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8729/photo-of-the-day Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:28:27 GMT 8729 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8728/photo-of-the-day Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:57:59 GMT 8728 The sight and sound of Native American tradition pounded loud and clear Thursday at Hood River Middle School as eighth graders and students from Westside and May Street Schools learned a friendship dance, to drum beats by N'chi Wanapum Canoe Family from the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs visited the school, and taught dances from Columbia basin tribal traditions. Watch here as students, on their feet and in their seats, gradually warm to the dance, and to the rhythm, with voices - and arms - enthusiastically raised by the end of the three-minute dance. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8727/video-warm-springs-dancers-at-hood-river-middle-school Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:46:40 GMT 8727 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8726/photo-of-the-day Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:41 GMT 8726 This Sunday when the New England Patriots play the New York Giants in the Super Bowl, I'm sure I will be doing what I've done for practically every Super Bowl I can recall: Eating a ridiculous amount of food and enjoying some good company. And also watching for the one guys who will either get a major book deal, or see his career go down in flames based on one game. As a Dallas Cowboys bandwago fan growing up, two distinct things stood out for me after I watched the Dallas Cowboys dismantle the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XXX, and bear in mind I was still not fully developed as an intelligent sports fan yet. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8714/bens-babbles-super-bowl-can-make-or-break-reputations Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8714 In a game that was much closer than indicated by the final score, the Hood River Valley Eagles played well enough to win a Columbia River Conference boys basketball game against the Hermiston Bulldogs. If HRV (1-4 CRC, 1-13 overall) could've avoided a meltdown in the final minutes of a close contest, it might've been a little different outcome instead of another disappointing loss. Hermiston (3-3, 4-12) capitalized on Eagle mistakes and outscored Hood River 13-2 in the final three minutes to pull out a 66-48 win Wednesday at Hood River Valley High School. The Eagles, guided by coach Steve Noteboom, dropped their fourth straight. HRV hopes to bounce back and get a road win when they meet the highly regarded (13th ranked) Pendleton Buckaroos (6-0, 13-4) at 7 p.m. Friday. "I'm excited about the opportunity to hopefully see our team play much better in the remaining games on our schedule," said Noteboom, who changed his usual starting lineup a little Wednesday. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8715/bulldogs-come-from-behind-to-beat-eagle-boys Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8715 The Hood River Valley senior swimmers dove into the pool and swam their ceremonial half lap of the pool. It could only mean one thing: It's time for district. The Eagles played host to St. Mary's Thursday night in their final regular season meet before Hood River hosts the Columbia River Conference district championship meet next Saturday. It has been an abbreviated second half of the season for the Eagles. They first lost a non-league dual meet with Barlow due to the January snowstorm, and then had their annual Hood River Invitational wiped out when conditions did not improve in time. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8716/eagle-swimmers-complete-final-tune-up-before-district Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8716 The Horizon Christian Hawks were tired, but after the way their game had gone the night before, they needed this one. The Hawks (17-2, 8-2 Big Sky) overcame some tired legs and a scrappy South Wasco (12-7, 6-4 Big Sky) effort to knock off the Redsides 60-46 Wednesday night. The win allowed the Hawks to bounce back from a 75-67 loss to Sherman (17-3, 9-1 Big Sky) the night before which cost them a shot at first place in the Big Sky league standings. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8717/hawk-boys-bounce-back-from-sherman-loss-but-face-grueling-week-ahead Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8717 The Horizon Christian girls have turned a corner. The Hawks (9-10, 6-4 Big Sky) held off a determined Sherman County rally Wednesday night and got some clutch free throws in the final minute, and a big defensive stop at the end to knock off the Huskies 44-39. The next night the Hawks overcame a 10- point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the South Wasco Redsides 35-33. That followed up come-from-behind win the previous week in South Wasco where the Hawks won 51-48 and the Hawks have now won four straight. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8718/hawk-girls-win-four-straight-move-into-second-place Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8718 As snowdrifts melt and fallen trees are slowly cleared around the valley, city water users can begin to rest a little easier. According to Mark Lago, director of public works for Hood River, the city water main, recently threatened by a progressing landslide on the banks of the Hood River, has been stabilized. "We have driven I-beams 40 feet into the ground at the top of the slope away from the slide and cantilevered rods over to the 8-inch water line to support it," said Lago. The support structure will ensure that even if the soil drops away from under the water line, it will remain suspended and functional. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8719/city-water-line-stabilized Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8719 Cost estimates are still being tallied for last month's snow and ice storm, and for Hood River County's public infrastructure, estimates have already surpassed $1 million. In an Initial Damage Assessment presented Thursday to Oregon's emergency management agency, the county's damages and costs associated with the week of severe weather impacted the county's public works, local governments, nonprofits and special districts to the tune of $1,014,588.06. The figure includes estimates of actual physical damage, as well as costs like overtime pay, loss-of-revenue, debris removal and additional labor, but does not include loss or damage to the general public's personal property. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8720/county-agencies-claim-over-1-million-in-storm-costs-for-fema-relief-funds Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8720 With tens of thousands of trees split in two, broken at the top or blown over entirely, Hood River County Forestry is assessing the extent of the damage to acreage caused by recent snow and ice storms. HRCF staff took an aerial survey of its forests Thursday to get an idea of what areas were damaged most and where to focus efforts first. Although not specifically good news, County Forest Manager Doug Thiesies said, "It wasn't worse than we feared. The damage is pretty patchy. There are areas that were hit pretty extensively, particularly on the west side in the Riordan Hill area." From the flyover, Thiesies estimated about 600 acres of county forest land sustained 10 percent or more stand damage. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8721/county-forests-a-mess-after-storm Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8721 Be Super Safe Keep the penalties on the football field this Super Bowl weekend http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8722/editorial-be-super-safe-filing-time Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8722 Civic-minded I would like to take this opportunity to let Hood River County know about a side of Brian Aaron that may not be apparent to most of you. He is a very civic-minded man who has given up his time to speak to career education classes at the high school. He also allowed students to visit his office and follow him around to learn about his business and the law. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8723/letters-to-the-editor-for-february-4-2012 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8723 Care, but verify. If your grandchild calls from a foreign country asking for emergency financial help, it's alright to be skeptical. Hood River Police have received recent reports of scam attempts on elderly residents that run something like this: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8724/help-me-grandma-phone-scams-on-the-rise Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8724 In a flurry of electronically delivered hoopla, 19 Hood River Valley High School student writers and artists and one Hood River Middle School student writer received regional recognition for their work through the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards national competition. From that group of regional winners, seven took home gold, advancing their submissions to the national level for a chance to win scholarships and professional exposure for their work. Six HRVHS teachers supported students in submitting work this year including Gabe Judah, Jeff Lorenzen, Amirra Malak, Regena Rafelson, Cathy Stever and Kori Walsh. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8725/student-artists-writers-gain-national-recognition Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:51:56 GMT 8725 Barlow Road, Student Loan at Cebu Lounge Friday, Feb. 10: Barlow Road w/The Student Loan, 9 p.m. – Alt. Country, Folk-Rock with Barlow Road, and high energy bluegrass with The Student Loan Hailing from the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, Barlow Road is the music machine where Matthew G. Mesa crafts songs reflecting everything about the landscape and its two-legged inhabitants. With guitar in hand and harmonicas close by, he weaves tales about love, life, asphalt, dirt, and everything else we get on ourselves. The Student Loan is an eclectic four-piece newgrass band based in Portland. Mixing traditional bluegrass and folk music with elements of rock, jazz, and blues, The Student Loan has a sound that defies genre and is both familiar and new. Portage Grill welcomes comedian Jimmie Walker The Portage Grill in The Dalles presents a night of classic comedy on Friday, Feb. 24, starting at 8 p.m. with televsion star Jimmie “JJ” Walker, of the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.” The show will also feature the comedy of Mike Wally Walter. Tickets are $25 for this 21-and-over event. For more information call Mike Rinaudo at 541-298-3287. Squaredance at Rockford Grange Note: Potluck dinner at 5:30 p.m. On Saturday, Feb. 11, from 7-10 p.m., it’s the Second Saturday Country Dance and Potluck at the Rockford Grange in Hood River. The dance caller will be Sue Baker from Hood River. The band will be the Mill Creek String Band. Dance lessons will begin at 7 p.m. All ages welcome and no partner is required. Family friendly event. All dances walked through first time. Enjoy an evening of country squares, contras, circle dances and a few waltzes. The dance will be at the Rockford Grange, on Barrett Road, Hood River. $6 for members, $7 for non-members, $1 for youth and students. Please bring snack treats for break time. Call Keith Harding at 541-352-7550 or Tom Hons at 541-386-5771 for further information. Uke Fest returns March 2 The fourth annual Gorge Uke Fest concert will be held on Friday, March 2, at 7 p.m. at the Hood River Middle School. If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing this wonderful evening of entertainment, be sure to catch it this year. Join your emcee and raconteur, Lil' Rev, as he takes you on a musical adventure featuring ukulele virtuoso James Hill and cellist Anne Davison, The Canote Brothers, Ralph Shaw, Brook Adams and the Hapa Hillbillies. Who knew the ukulele could be so wild! Tickets are $15 adult; $5 for 12 and under, available at Waucoma Bookstore in Hood River and the Community Education office. All proceeds from this concert go the local school music programs. Matt Brown at The Pines Quench your thirst and musical cravings Thursday night at The Pines in Hood River. Join Kerry Williams and his musical compadres as they rock The Pines with their impromptu solos and smooth vocals. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m.: Matt Brown. Matt Brown's velvety voice, reminiscent of Jack Johnson and Amos Lee, along with smooth guitar skills will keep you lingering onto every note. You don't want to miss this show. Manimal House at Double Mt. Since 2006, Manimalhouse has been bringing gritty, high energy funk and soul music to dance floors around the Pacific Northwest. Combining the sexy, powerful vocals of Reyna Mallare (think Aretha meets Beyonce), fresh horn arrangements and non-stop energy, Manimalhouse turns every club into a house party. Double Mountain Brewery, Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. 21-and-over. No cover charge. ‘Stranglers’ at Naked Winery On Saturday, Feb. 11, from 7-10 p.m. Naked Winery in Hood River presents The Johnson Creek Stranglers. Johnny Outlaw and Jerry Ransom have played music professionally for 40 years combined. Outlaw, a self proclaimed Northern hillbilly, has a Johnny Cash/Keith Whitley sounding vocal, while Ransom, a southern states raised hellbilly, has a Hank Sr/Kurt Cobain sounding voice. Together, they create some totally original sounding outlaw country music. Mondays: Open Mic Night with Bill Nielsen and Lisa Marie. Come have fun to some rock ‘n roll classics! From 7 to 10 p.m. Tess Barr at Waucoma Feb. 11 The Tess Barr Blues Band will be at the Waucoma Club in Hood River for the Valentine’s Ball, Saturday Feb. 11. Music starts at 9 p.m. The band will be playing tunes from their new upcoming CD. Music, more at Alma Terra Polly Norris and Glen Holmberg will be playing acoustic music on Friday, Feb. 10, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Alma Terra Wines in Bingen, Wash. Stop by for a glass of wine, chocolate and chocolate paninis. Alma Terra Wines, 208 W. Steuben, Bingen, Wash. 509-637-2633. Little Oak Montessori School benefit Feb. 11 A benefit for the Little Oak Montessori School in White Salmon happens Saturday, Feb. 11, from 6-10 p.m. The location is at the Skyline Hospital Event Room with a spectacular panoramic view of the Gorge and Mt. Hood. There will be food, wine and beer, live music, fabulous auction items and some surprises. Tickets are $20/person and includes: Entrance to event, dinner and dessert compliments of Henni’s Kitchen & Bar and Solstice Wood Fire Cafe, complimentary wine beverage (there will also be a cash bar), live jazz music by Joey Appel of the beloved Clambake Combo and an auction bidding package. Tickets are on sale at Solstice Cafe, Henni's and Collage of the Gorge. For more information please call 509-281-1721. Music venues in The Dalles Tess Barr Blues, Friday, Feb. 10, at Clock Tower Ales in The Dalles from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Clocktower Ales, 311 Union St., The Dalles; 541-296-2602. Rich Wilkins Blues Band, Saturday, Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m. Ananas Boutique, 414 E. Second St., The Dalles; 541-296-1110. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8712/feb-8-entertainment-update Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:46:39 GMT 8712 Jim Drake’s Entertainment Blog Someone’s in the kitchen with Dinah, strummin on the ol’ trashcanjo* Ah, yes, that’s one of the earliest songs I remember. It had to be third or fourth grade. It was a simple song called “Someone’s in the kitchen with Dinah.” I don’t think I can print all the words here, that would be a copyright infringement. But let’s just say the song is about a certain “Dinah,” who is apparently in the kitchen. The next line alludes to everyone “knowing about it” and then, in the last lines, she is strumming the banjo. Go figure. Singing along in that music class is one of my distinct childhood memories. You know the kind — when you get 25 blissful seconds of clear memory — from over 37 years ago. I remember our gray-haired music teacher desperately trying to lead us through the song. And then, the rest of the class was centered on mastering the technical aspects of the “tonette.” After that — it’s a memory blackout. Maybe it was on to recess, or lunch, I don’t know. Which got me to thinking. Songs. Where on earth do they come from? And why after all this time, do I remember that one, like it was yesterday? The point is, this song about Dinah did come from somewhere. Now, I learned the words before the days of instant Google searches and digital downloads. And I bet the music book I learned it from may have contained a blurb about the origin of the song, or even the original writer. But that’s not what I remembered, the song is what I remembered. And it stuck with me all this time. Hood River, you have an opportunity coming up to hear some more songs. Not by one, but by three different guys. And the material for this show is going to be so varied and so unique, I’m betting that someone from the audience is going to remember one of those songs. Possibly for the next 37 years. And they too, will forget who wrote it or where it came from. But it won’t matter. It’s the song they’ll remember. *Oops, I mean “banjo” not “trashcanjo.” I’m not sure where that came from. Oh, wait, it came from the interview I did last week. That’s where it came from. You’ll need to go online to my blog at hoodrivernews.com to read it, because I ran out of space here. Three unique songwriters — J.L. Stiles, Capt. James Cook, and Hood River local Ben Bonham — pool their resources for a singer-songwriter show at the Columbia Center for the Arts on Sunday, Feb. 12. Tickets are $10 and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Interview with Ben Bonham Over the years you've probably played every venue in Hood River. How does it feel to finally be able to play in a place, like the arts center, where folks can actually sit down and listen to live music, without all the distractions? It will be a treat and I can't wait. That room is the best sounding room in the area and the chance to play for an attentive audience there is just terrific. Also the staff work really hard and understand musicians needs and the audiences needs - so this all adds up to the best possible experience for everyone. I am truly delighted to be asked to do this, especially with JL and the good Capn' You play a specialized type of guitar, a steel-bodied national resonator. What year is it from and how did you acquire it? I actually have a couple - one from 1929, given to me by a good friend from the UK - the other from 1927 (very early in the production of this instrument) - given to me by a chap down in California. He saw me playing my other one on the street one day and asked if I would like his! For many years now I have specialized in the art of being given fine guitars, it really is a lot better than having to buy them. Your influences for music are many, will you be concentrating on one genre in particular for this show? Well as this is a songwriter show, and it will all be music and words made up in my own head - without the help of an adult. I'm sure my friends would love to classify all my tunes as 'rubbish' but it's more accurate to say that the ones I write tend to lean to the early jazz and early county blues side of things - and even though I often try to write serious, contemplative material, most of my stuff is quite silly really. In the past few years I have gone through phases of writing a song every day - its a great discipline and just by the law of numbers you get some good songs! Interview with James Cook You're known for making homemade instruments out of trashcans and recycled materials. How did you get started making these things and which ones will you be bringing to the Gorge on Feb. 12? It all started about ten years ago when I was playing upright bass in a bluegrass band. I wanted something less expensive and delicate to haul around (after touring several years with the upright bass, it needed extensive, and expensive repairs) so I started experimenting with washtub basses. After much research and development a design emerged using a 20 gallon trashcan and a fixed neck with a single string. It sounds remarkably like an upright bass. With this success I jokingly thought of having an entire band using home made instruments, and proceeded to build my first "Trashcanjo", a banjo made out of a trash can. I will be bringing the Trashcanjo, and possibly a trash can bass to the show. What drew you to the early jazz style most of your songs emulate? In the mid 1990s I played bass in a ragtime jugband called "Jimbo Trout and the Fish People." This was my first exposure to vintage vocal jazz, and I immediately fell in love with the witty lyrical humor and fast paced chord changes. Artists like Fats Waller, Hoagy Carmichael, and Duke Ellington really set the standard for me. There's a rumor you've written over 1,000 songs. Can you remember anything about the first song you wrote? I do remember much of my early writings. I have boxes full of notebooks and papers with all my lyrics, and hundreds of old cassette tapes that I used to record my ideas on. Occasionally I will sift through them and rediscover a forgotten gem from years ago. As with any craft, I feel my best material is still being written, or will be in the future, so I often prefer to play what is recent and fresh. My first song, called "Life goes on, again" describes the happenings in a small town square. It's a decent tune, even by my current standards. As with most of my music, it tells a story with surprising twists and turns. Audio Preview Song Beside My Grave by J.L. Stiles Shadows by Capt. James Cook http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8713/someones-in-the-kitchen-with-dinah-strummin-on-the-ol-trashcanjo Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:46:39 GMT 8713 It's every sportscaster's worst nightmare when the Horizon Christian Hawks of Tualatin visit the Horizon Christian Hawks of Hood River Feb. 6, 2012. The Tualatin version won the game 67-52. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8711/video-horizon-christian-hawks-vs-horizon-christian-hawks Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:14:26 GMT 8711 Writing books was always a joy for Kay Dahlquist of Hood River, the Hood River News reported in its Feb. 1 edition. Reading them to children is an even greater one. The author, 97, still looks for opportunities to read to local school kids. She lives at Hawk's Ridge Assisted Living, where a group of pre-schoolers from Bambino's International Learning Center got to hear Dahlquist read from her book "Kindergarten At Last." It was a fitting subject for kids who next year will start "regular" school. n "I can't describe how I felt when my first book was handed to me," said Dahlquist, who began writing in her 80s. "I was up in the sky. I can't believe how popular they've been." Dahlquist raised six children, including Sharon Guidera of Hood River. She has 12 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren Her books, all written by hand, are "The Kindergarten Mystery and The Wee House"; "The Little Brown Donkey"; Hopalong's Adventure" ; and "Kindergarten At Last." Irish folk tales and her own experiences as a kindergarten teacher for 14 years influenced her stories. Becoming an author late in life,"just happened," she said. "I don't really know. I sat down one day and began to write and before I knew it I had a book." Reading to the kids was her favorite part of teaching: "I liked reading to them, discussing the book with them," she said. Children inspired her stories "100 percent" but she turns to another Author for how the stories came to her. "You have to ask the good Lord that. I don't know. It just came from him." http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8710/video-kay-dahlquist-a-loving-life-of-books Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:10:06 GMT 8710 Donald William Kitchens, 75, passed away Feb. 2, 2012, at his home in Cascade Locks, Ore., of natural causes. He was born Sept. 4, 1936, in Kansas City, Mo., to Harold A. Chroninger and Geneva Jo Sharpe Kitchens. He married LeeRae Bible at Cascade Locks on June 29, 1986. He lived 30 years in Cascade Locks (1982-present); various states and countries with the U.S. Air Force (England, West Germany, Turkey, Thailand, Crete, Greece); Kansas, California, Texas and many others. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8705/obituary-donald-kitchens Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:01:06 GMT 8705 Kenneth Harold Gardner was born on Sept. 24, 1918, at the Larsen family ranch house in the Snowden area, just north of the Snowden cemetery in Washington. He passed away peacefully in the company of loved ones at Hawks Ridge Assisted Living facility in Hood River, Ore., on Jan. 29, 2012, at the age of 93. His parents were Oscar Gardner and Mabel (Larsen) Gardner. Ken Gardner was a longtime owner of the Gardner Funeral Home. It was established in 1930 by his parents, Oscar and Mabel Gardner. In 1940, their two sons, Arthur and Ken, both graduated from the College of Mortuary Science of San Francisco, and Ken became actively associated with the firm. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8706/obituary-kenneth-gardner Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:01:06 GMT 8706 Elva Lee Bray, 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Hood River, Ore., on Feb. 2, 2012, after a very courageous 14-year battle with cancer. She was born Elva Lee Edwards in Norfolk, Va., on Feb. 20, 1924, to a family of eight brothers and sisters. Elva Lee joined the U.S. Air Force in 1945 and was stationed in El Paso, Texas, and in Germany while training to be a dental assistant. She worked as a dental assistant in Norfolk for more than 40 years. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8707/obituary-elva-lee-bray Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:01:06 GMT 8707 Caroline Willems, 80, passed away at Providence Brookside Manor in Hood River on Feb. 4, 2012. She was born March 1, 1931, in Spokane, Wash. A graveside service is planned for 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at the Upper Valley Cemetery in Parkdale, Ore. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8708/death-notice-caroline-willems Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:01:06 GMT 8708 Virginia A. Riley, 86, passed away at Hood River Care Center on Feb. 5, 2012. She was born April 29, 1925, in Eaton, Colo. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center (Funerals, Receptions, Cremations), 1401 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031; 541-386-1000. Please visit www.andersonstributecenter.com to leave a note of condolence for family. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8709/death-notice-virginia-riley Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:01:06 GMT 8709 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8704/photo-of-the-day Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:08:03 GMT 8704 See previous photos of the day: http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8703/photo-of-the-day Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:17:20 GMT 8703 Donald Francis Packer, 80, peacefully passed away at the home where he had lived for more than 60 years on Jan. 28, 2012, with his family at his side. Don was born in his grandparents' home on 12th Street in Hood River, Ore., to Clarence and Bessie (Stevens) Packer. He grew up on his parents' farm on Willow Flat with brothers Leslie and Kenneth; Don was the youngest of the three sons. He worked in the family orchard and packing house until he graduated from Odell High School (now Mid Valley Elementary School) in June of 1949. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8698/obituary-donald-packer Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:01:18 GMT 8698 Jon Brent Norman, of Parkdale, Ore., passed away on Jan. 24, 2012, at Providence Medical Center in Portland, Ore. Jon was born Dec. 1, 1976, in Hood River, Ore., to Charles and Dorothy (Covey) Norman. He graduated from the Hood River Christian School in 1995. He was a member of 4-H and enjoyed entering beef and his baked goods in the county fair; he was very proud of his awards and trophies. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8699/obituary-jon-norman Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:01:18 GMT 8699 Lester J. Martin, 92, passed away Jan. 24, 2012, in Parkdale, Ore., with family by his side. Lester was born April 15, 1919, in Beaver Dam, Wis., to Lester E. Martin and Evelyn Ann Vockroth. He grew up in Beaver Dam where he enjoyed participating in sports, track and football. He graduated from Wayland Academy and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin studying chemical engineering. http://www.hoodrivernews.com/archives/story.aspx/8700/obituary-lester-martin Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:01:18 GMT 8700