Keep on Truckin' COLUMBIA BASIN
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COLUMBIA BASIN
Keep on Truckin’
Condon family understands the importance of work and community
By Jody Foss 1982, they were both driving truck during 6, and Tucker, 4.
the harvest season. They married in 1985. Jared graduated from Condon High
It’s been said that a family that plays “I am grateful that 30-some years ago school in 2011. His wife, Delaney,
together stays together. But how about a my parents had enough ambition and graduated the previous year. The couple
family that also works together? drive to start the business,” Jason says. “I have three children: Jack, 8; Grey, 6;
Watkins Trucking, started in 1988 by feel fortunate that they struggled through and Blair, 2.
Rick and Leah Watkins of Condon, is a and made it happen, and were able to In November 2017, Shaina
family business. Sons Jason, 33, and Jared, give my brother and I an opportunity to brought up the idea of starting
27, work alongside their parents to keep come work for them. I have a tremendous a freight brokerage. She had
their three grain trucks loaded and on the amount of respect for my parents for it, previously worked for a freight
road. The company hauls grain for Mid too. I remember when I was younger it brokerage and was able to
Columbia Producers from its elevators in wasn’t always easy.” answer Leah’s questions about
Morrow, Wasco and Gilliam counties to Jason started driving with Rick when the ins and
barges in Arlington, Biggs and The Dalles. he was 19. After graduating from Condon
The family recently added three new High School in 2004, he attended Eastern
endeavors: Countryside Dispatch Inc., Oregon University in La Grande for
Countryside Transport and Watkins a year. He met his wife, Shaina,
Excavating LLC. With four businesses to in 2007. They married
keep organized, there is always plenty of in 2012. Jason and
work to do. Shaina have two
When Rick and Leah met in children: Cami,
4 F E B R U A RY 2020
outs of the business. Inc. off the ground. With the help of the For the Watkins family, it’s not just
“My stepdad, Jack Ingram, played a grant, Leah and Shaina attended a five- about work. It’s about community.
huge part in my desire to be a broker, day freight brokerage seminar in Phoenix The family helped organize the annual
working for him at WI Logistics driving and were awarded certificates for master Four-Wheeler Rodeo, sponsored by the
truck starting in 2005 and then working in brokers. Gilliam County Fair board, of which
the office in 2013,” Shaina says. “There were many truck drivers in the Leah is a member. Leah and Shaina serve
Leah was interested. After meeting class,” Leah says. “There were also some the community as volunteer emergency
with the director of the Port of Arlington, people who knew nothing about the medical technicians. Jason and Shaina
she and Shaina approached Delaney transportation business. Our experience in serve on the Gilliam County Volunteer
with the business idea. She came on the transportation industry helped us to Fire Department.
board. be better freight brokers. When we talk to Leah has served as a 4-H leader and
“I was excited about this business carriers we can say, ‘We know because we school board member, and is a founding
opportunity and was honored they have done it.’ ” member of the Condon Education
wanted me to be a part of it,” Delaney Leah brought her expertise in Foundation and the Condon Booster
says. bookkeeping and running a business Club. Delaney served on the Chamber of
At the beginning of 2018, the to the table. Delaney came on board Commerce board. Shaina and Delaney
Watkins were awarded a startup grant with computer skills and experience in currently serve on the Condon Childcare
from the Port of Arlington to get insurance and public relations. board.
Countryside Dispatch “With the three of us together, we are “I love that we get to do all of this
a full circle of what it takes and what we together and teach our kids the value of
need to get things done,” Shaina being community volunteers,” Delaney
says. “The best part is that we are says.
family and we really do work very Recently, the Chamber of Commerce
well together.” voted Watkins Trucking and Countryside
Jason, Shaina, Delaney and Dispatch outstanding business of the year.
Jared have all coached kids’ sports “They are truly what makes Condon so
and are involved in the Condon special,” says K’lynn Lane of the chamber.
Youth Baseball Organization. “They work hard and are the first ones you
They follow in the footsteps call when you need a hand.”
of Rick and Leah, who helped Jason acknowledges his parents’
build two new Little League dedication.
fields. “My parents wanted to create a better
“It’s really rewarding to watch life for my brother and me, and I want to
the Watkins grandchildren play create a better life for my kids,” he says.
on the fields that Rick and I “It’s all about the future. It’s a collective
helped develop,” Leah says. thing. It takes all of us to make it work.”
The Watkins
family stands
with its new
flatbed truck and
trailer in Condon.
PHOTO COURTESY
OF CONDON
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5
A Facility
for the
Future
By Rodger Nichols
A proposed new project near the John Day
Dam could offer the Columbia Gorge and
beyond a tremendous long-term economic
benefit and support renewable power pro-
duction both directly and indirectly.
The project would create a hydroelec-
tric pumped storage facility. The Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission defines
the concept as follows:
“Pumped storage projects move water
between two reservoirs located at different
elevations (i.e., an upper and lower reser-
voir) to store energy and generate electric-
ity. Generally, when electricity demand is
low (e.g., at night), excess electric genera-
tion capacity is used to pump water from
the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir.
When electricity demand is high, the
stored water is released from the upper
reservoir to the lower reservoir through a
turbine to generate electricity.”
The key word is “excess.” Yes, it takes
more energy to pump water uphill than is
gained by generation as it flows back down
through the turbines—about 20% of the
energy flowing into the system is lost. But
the process can capture and store energy A pump storage map outlines details of the proposed Klickitat County project.
COURTESY OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
that would otherwise be wasted. For exam-
ple, many solar panel farms in California The problem with many renewable burn fossil fuels or biomass, nuclear plants,
generate more energy than can be used energy sources is that the sun doesn’t geothermal energy and pumped storage.
during the day. That excess energy can be always shine, and the wind doesn’t All can generate that steady flow, indepen-
saved in the upper reservoir during the always blow. Utilities that use those vari- dent of the weather or time of day.
day. At night, when the solar panels can’t able resources must balance them with There are disadvantages for each. Plants
operate, water can be let down through customer demands, which reach peak that burn anything generate pollution and
turbines to the lower reservoir and gener- amounts in cold Northwest winters. greenhouse gases and affect fish runs. Geo-
ate electricity into the system. Customers depend on their electrical thermal and pumped storage projects are
The concept has been used since the service to provide a steady supply of elec- expensive.
1890s in parts of Europe, and there are sev- tricity, not a supply that varies with wind Klickitat PUD in Goldendale, Washing-
eral working systems in the United States. or sunlight. To keep that flow constant, ton, has identified a geographically ideal
The emphasis in recent years has been to utilities use power plants that provide a spot for the project and has been advo-
support solar and wind power renewables constant output. That category includes cating the idea for more than a decade.
subsidized by generous tax-credit benefits. hydropower from dams, power plants that Because of the cost—somewhere north
28 F E B R U A RY 2020
NORTHERN WASCO PUD
of $2 billion—the PUD does not have the
resources to pursue the project itself. The
PUD received preliminary approval for the
concept and kept the idea alive until major
investors could be found.
Contractor Rye Development and util-
ity National Grid took an interest in the
project in 2018. Both companies have deep
pockets. National Grid serves multiple
states in the northeast United States and
nearly all of England as well. In December,
the companies filed a 500-plus page draft
license application with FERC. A 90-day
public comment period ends March 12,
and the companies will respond. Once
FERC determines the application is com-
plete, the agency will evaluate the details
and decide whether to issue a license.
Rye and National Grid are bearing the
costs of construction and operation.
Klickitat PUD customers will not have
Washington Senator Maria Cantwell, flanked by Klickitat County Commissioner Dave Sauter,
any rate increases due to the project. In left, and Klickitat PUD General Manager Jim Smith, visits the 2,400-foot-high bluff at the
fact, once the project is licensed, Rye and proposed pumped storage site on a windy day in September 2019. PHOTO BY RODGER NICHOLS
National Grid will reimburse KPUD for
all costs related to keeping it alive all these when the aluminum plant shut down. more jobs and more welcome tax revenue.
years. The PUD has received a $1 million That’s important for the initial fill. Beyond Wasco County has no wind or solar proj-
grant for further studies from the state of that, the facility will only need to add a ects in operation, though several are pro-
Washington. Those funds will be passed modest amount of water each year due to posed. The pumped storage project could
through to consultants, and the PUD will evaporation. help those projects come to fruition.
be reimbursed for administrative costs. The proposed timeline for the project
The location has been identified as one would be to have a permit by 2022. Main
of the best suited in the United States. The construction would take four years, and
facility would be on part of the old Gol- operational startup would be in 2028.
dendale aluminum plant site, with two Goldendale Mayor Mike Canon calls the
60-acre ponds, each 170 to 180 feet deep. FERC filing “an incredible achievement,”
One pond would be on the plant site and and cites those “who have worked so hard
another 2,400 feet on the bluff. Large tun- for so long to bring this about.”
nels will be drilled inside the bluff: one Taxing districts in the county would
for water being pumped upward and one have an estimated $14 million in revenue,
with turbines to generate the water being but the financial impact to the region goes
released from the upper pond. All the far beyond Klickitat County.
works would be underground. Only the Construction would bring 3,000 tem- Community Calendar
ponds would be visible on the surface. porary jobs for several years and 30 per- Gorge Roller Derby, double header,
The site has many advantages. Geo- manent jobs on completion. There’s not February 8. Doors open at 4 p.m., bout
graphically, it provides 2,400 feet of verti- enough housing in Klickitat County for begins at 5 p.m., The Dalles Readiness
cal change in a short horizontal distance. that many, and the hope is many work- Center.
The property has a single owner. There are ers would choose to live in The Dalles and The Dalles City Council meets the
major electrical transmission lines already boost the local economy. second and fourth Monday of each month
on the site from serving the aluminum The region would benefit directly from at 5:30 p.m., with the exception of August
company. There is a nearby source of water those well-paid jobs. Indirectly, the proj- and holidays, at City Hall.
in the Columbia River for the initial fill. ect would provide up to 1,200 megawatts The Board of County Commissioners
There are no problems with water rights, for 12 hours of steady power production meets the first and third Wednesdays of
either, because Klickitat PUD gained sig- that could offset the fluctuations of new each month at Wasco County Courthouse.
nificant water rights to the Columbia River wind and solar projects. That, in turn, adds
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 29
NORTHERN WASCO PUD
For the Good of All
In today’s political climate, society often seems fractured and divided. That’s
not always the case for local governments.
Photos and story by Rodger Nichols at CGCC’s Hood River campus, if the college could
raise a matching amount. Despite concerted effort,
Cooperation for the common good isn’t lost on local the college did not find a funding source for a match
officials in Wasco County. One of the best examples of that size. In 2015, however, legislators renewed the
is a significant addition planned for Columbia Gorge allocation and set a timeline with an expiration date.
Community College. Last year, as the new deadline approached, local
CGCC President Marta Yera Cronin praised the governments found ways to work together to meet the
level of local cooperation. goal.
“Something that became immediately evident A key piece of the economic puzzle was income
to me upon my arrival last July was that one of the from the local Enterprise Zone, a program that
major strengths of this community is the level of rewards companies that invest locally by not taxing
collaboration between agencies,” she says. “I had never improvements on the land for as long as 15 years. In
before experienced collaboration to such an incredible partial return for lost tax revenue, companies seeking
degree. Clearly, it is what really moves the needle Enterprise Zone tax deals must negotiate payments
community-wide.” with local Enterprise Zone sponsors. Locally, the zone
The story begins in 2013, when Oregon state Reps. has been jointly administered by Wasco County and
John Huffman of The Dalles and Mark Johnson the City of The Dalles until recently, when the zone
of Hood River secured a $7.32 million allocation was expanded and the Port of The Dalles joined the
from the state for an advanced technology center administration of newer agreements.
4 F E B R U A RY 2020
In the past, funds from this source have been used
to pay off bonds issued to extend The Dalles city
water out to the Discovery Center, to build a practice
fire tower for Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue and to
improve curb appeal for schools in North Wasco
County School District.
The latest 15-year tax abatement agreement was
with Design LLC on behalf of Google for its newest
construction. The city, county and port agreed to
allocate a significant portion of the payments from
Google to pay off revenue bonds issued to raise $3.5
million toward the required match. In February
2019, the college issued a full faith and credit bond
obligation to complete the match.
With the total $14.6 million secured, the college
will build a 24,000-square-foot skill center. It’s
designed to give students hands-on practical training
in skilled professions—initially construction trades,
maintenance and repair on aircraft, and HVAC
installation.
This skill center furthers CGCC’s idea of “middle
college” by offering dual enrollment in both high specifically highlighted development of the Columbia Columbia Gorge
school and college. As early as 2016, some students Gorge Community College Student Housing and Community College
will add a skills
received their CGCC two-year diploma and their high Skills Center in its annual ranking of needed projects. center and student
school diploma in the same week. The Federal Aviation Administration, which tests housing to its
The college also will add a student housing and licenses aircraft mechanics, has been supportive. campus, thanks to
cooperation from a
complex. In a survey last year, nearly three-quarters “They came from Portland twice to walk us number of local
of the students who responded said finding affordable through the process of setting up an approved school,” entities.
housing in the area was a challenge. More than 90% says CGCC Outreach Coordinator Dan Spatz.
said having on-campus student housing would make The Columbia Gorge Regional Airport, jointly
CGCC more attractive to prospective students. But the owned by the city of The Dalles and Klickitat,
real motivator for housing was the shocking discovery supports the project because it will eventually provide
that 10% of students surveyed said they were staying skilled mechanics as the airport.
in a shelter, a car or on the street. Construction hasn’t yet begun. The college is still
None of the bonds issued for the local match will in the design phase of the project, with construction
cost local taxpayers a dime. Enterprise Zone funds will beginning later this year and completed by 2022. In
cover $3.5 million, while tuition and student housing a nod to college history, the training facility will be
rental revenue will pay off $3.8 million. The state’s known as the Treaty Oak Regional Skills Center. Prior
share of $7.32 million is part of a statewide bond to 1989, CGCC was known as Treaty Oak.
issuance. The college is not obligated to repay that. “I don’t think I have had a conversation with a
There has been marked cooperation all along. person who did not agree that this skills center is
Both North Wasco County School District and Mid- really needed to train workers for the fastest-growing
Columbia Fire & Rescue have projects that could industries in the Gorge and will have a profound
use some of the zone funding, but each sent letters impact on the local economy,” Marta says.
of support for the college project as the highest local An added benefit to having student housing
need. The Port of The Dalles will provide bridge available, she says, is the ability to serve students in
funding of up to $1.5 million if needed during the outlying areas who may not be able to commute
construction. In all the cases, the public agency votes or to take online classes.
to do so were unanimous. “It’s all about improving the community,” says
Other agencies are involved as well. Wasco County Commission Chair Steve Kramer. “It’s
Mid-Columbia Economic Development District a win-win-win for everybody.” n
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5
In the Spotlight
Biologists count deer at night to assess the health of herd
By Craig Reed blacktail and whitetail deer and we need for deer management Many routes are in Douglas
identify them as bucks, does or practices.” Electric Cooperative service
The beams from spotlights fawns. To not be confused with territory, so residents are asked
pointed out the windows on Oregon Department of Fish illegal spotlighting and to double check what they see
both sides of the pickup can and Wildlife biologists carry poaching, the ODFW rigs before calling in about what
reach out to about 200 yards. out this task in March and sport an amber flashing light they might have perceived as
The pickup slowly moves November. The biologists drive on the cab roof, flashing an illegal spotlighting situation.
along the forest road. The the routes and count after dark hazard lights and a tailgate- “We’re trying to display that
spotlights continue to shine because that is when most deer sized “Deer Survey” sign on we’re doing something of an
across open areas and into the are up and feeding after being the back when working. The official nature,” says Tod Lum,
trees in hopes of lighting up bedded down through the day. Oregon State Police and the the Douglas District wildlife
the eyes of wildlife. “We don’t work at night for Douglas County Sheriff ’s biologist. “Most poachers don’t
When those eyes reflect the fun of it,” says DeWaine Office are also notified in want to attract attention. But if
the light, the pickup stops. Jackson, ODFW’s west region advance of the deer survey there are concerns, the public
Binoculars are used to identify wildlife research supervisor. routes so officers can explain should call 911 and report what
the animal in the spotlight “Working at night is the most the situation if they receive they’ve seen.”
beam. The goal is to count obvious time to collect the data calls about spotlighting. The dispatcher can tell them
4 F E B R U A RY 2020
DOUGLAS ELECTRIC
“We don’t work at night for the fun of it. Working at night
is the most obvious time to collect the data we need for deer
management practices.”
—DEWAINE JACKSON
LEFT: Jay Potter, left, an Oregon
Department of Fish and Wildlife
wildlife technician, and Tod Lum,
the Douglas District wildlife
biologist, prepare a pickup for a
nighttime deer spotlighting
survey. PHOTO BY CRAIG REED
OPPOSITE PAGE: A deer is
caught in the spotlight while the
Oregon Department of Fish and
Wildlife staff conduct their
annual count. PHOTO COURTESY
OF ODFW
“We’re trying to document passing spotlight beams. the past few years indicate
the presence of deer, their “The silver lining is that blacktail deer have slowly
numbers over time,” he says. landowners care about the recovered from a major die-
“In the fall, we’re specifically resources,” he says. “I’m happy off several years ago during a
looking to determine buck and to report that attitude is out summer of severe drought. At
fawn ratios.” there and is prevalent.” that time, hundreds of deer
The survey is also to see if Veril Nelson, a rancher east coming to stagnant water were
deer numbers have increased of Sutherlin, says it is important bitten by midges that carried
after 90 cougars were removed to support the work of the epizootic hemorrhagic disease.
from a 1,500-square-mile ODFW biologists. He says “Over 300 deer that we
area east of Interstate 5 from most of the deer he sees on his know of died,” Tod says. “The
Douglas County’s southern property are in his headlights disease killed both blacktail and
if ODFW is out spotlighting. border to its northern border. at night. whitetail.”
Don’t approach a vehicle that The cougars were removed “There is more wildlife out Official spotlighting counts
is spotlighting because if it is because of livestock losses, but at night than in the daylight show improved numbers in
not an official activity, there’s deer could also benefit. hours, so it’s understandable both populations.
a good chance they are armed “We’re still working on the why they spotlight at night,” “What we’re doing is
and doing something they numbers to determine that Veril says. “Those counts are scientifically based,” DeWaine
shouldn’t be doing, Tod says. benefit for deer,” Tod says. important in order to manage says. “By spotlighting, we’re
Report the situation with as DeWaine says the survey the population.” trying to gather and provide
much information as possible, data gathered on blacktail deer Steve Denney, a resident of the information that will
including the vehicle license is important to determine bag the Lookingglass Valley, says benefit all of our constituent
plate and description. limits during hunting season, he understands the nighttime groups. From a research
Tod says these deer surveys buck and doe harvest rates and activity is important. point of view, the data train
are important to better the type of weapon that can be “Those deer counts are is important for the agency to
understand deer health. He has used at specific times among necessary to set hunting be able to look at changes in
traveled the survey routes since other regulations. seasons and to determine deer trends across different
joining the Roseburg ODFW Tod admits that at times habitat issues,” he says. landscapes and in different
office 17 years ago. residents may be alarmed at Tod says the surveys from habitats.” n
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5
COLUMBIA POWER
New Crew on Board
Columbia Power adds youth and talent to its staff
Garrett Warner, left, is new to
his position at Columbia Power
Cooperative. Jack Jewell has
been on the co-op’s line crew for
three years.
4 F E B R U A RY 2020
Stories and photo by Jody Foss five-and-a-half-year fight, Arlot says. “I had to wait until I turned
died September 14, 2019. 18 to go to lineman school.”
It’s 8 a.m. at Columbia Power Before his father died, Jack Garrett attended Northwest
Co-op. After the morning meeting, married his wife, Teawna, on the Lineman College in Meridian,
the crew will head out to various family ranch. Idaho.
jobs of the day. “That is why we didn’t wait,” “It was a nice experience being
Longtime lineman Gary Jack says, “so my dad could be in town for a little bit, but I got
Warner’s son, Garrett, recently there.” tired of it quick,” he says.
joined the ranks. Three years Jack and Teawna plan to build He did line work for two major
ago, another local young man a house next year on the family contractors for Idaho Power for
from Monument, Jack Jewell, property across the highway from two-and-a-half years.
joined the crew. Together, they the main house. “I caught word that there was a
add personality and skills to the “It is pretty surprising that I had three-month position open at the
Columbia Power team. an opportunity to stay home,” Jack co-op for groundwork,” Garrett
“We are excited to have both says of his co-op job. says. “They weren’t sure if it was
of the guys working for us,” says He had been helping his mother, going to turn into full time or not.
Manager Troy Cox. “They will Carrie, with the cattle and hay I knew this is where I wanted to be.
be going through our apprentice production when the job came up. It was a good step to get my foot in
program to get their journeyman “I didn’t know a lot about the door, so I applied for it.”
card.” electricity and power lines before, Garrett started his job at the
Jack lived on Cupper Creek until and I have learned a lot,” Jack says. co-op August 1, 2019.
he was 5, when the family bought “The guys teach me a lot. They are “After three months, they asked
part of the family ranch from his a lot of good people to work with.” me if I wanted to stay,” he says. “I
uncle. Since then, Jack has lived Jack enjoys that every day is told them I had enjoyed it so far
on the ranch on the North Fork of a little different. They might be and that I thought I would keep
the John Day. He graduated from doing “hot work,” making new enjoying it. The budget worked
Monument High School in 2014. lines or rebuilding lines. out, and I was hired.”
Jack was thrilled when the “It’s different almost every day,” In Boise, Garrett did mainly
Columbia Power Co-op job he says. “We usually ride in three underground utility work.
opened. He was hired full time in trucks so we get to drive with “I have been doing a lot of
April 2016. different guys on the crew.” overhead here and getting that
“It was an opportunity to stay Jack says Troy and Josh experience under my belt,” he says.
home and stay where I was raised,” Hamilton have been helpful “We never really know what we are
he says. “I love the outdoors, teaching him about plumbing going to do day to day. We might
hunting and fishing, and I love supplies and pumps. be reading meters, and the next
working with the animals. It’s just “I learn something new every day we might be going out building
a quiet place to live, not a lot of day,” he says. lines so it’s kind of nice to get a
people. I like coming home and The co-op’s newest employee, little change up.”
being home every night.” Garrett Warner, grew up hanging Garrett says he is happy to be
Jack has always worked with his around the co-op and knew the back in Monument.
parents on the ranch, raising hay linemen his father worked with. “This is always where I have
and Charolais cattle. By the time he graduated from wanted to be,” he says. “It’s the
“It’s what we raised when I was Monument High School in 2016, opportunity to hang out in
little, so that is what I stuck with,” he had already decided he wanted the middle of nowhere. The
he says. to do line work. He took a brief community is small and everyone
Shortly after Jack’s high school detour first. is friendly. And it’s nice I get to
graduation, his father, Arlot, was “I went straight to work logging work with my dad for a little
diagnosed with cancer. After a with my stepdad, Chad Engle,” he while.” n
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5CENTRAL ELECTRIC Gluten Free Never Tasted so Good Photo and story by Courtney Cobb A homegrown business, Josie’s Best Gluten Free strives to make gluten- free products with a classic taste and texture. CEO and founder Josette Johnson’s journey started more than 20 years ago when she was diagnosed with food allergies in her late teens. “There was just nothing good to eat, and what was OK to eat was really hard to make,” she says. One of Josette’s favorite things is having waffles or pancakes with her family on Sunday mornings. “I would cook myself a pancake I could eat on a Sunday morning, and then I would cook some for my husband because the stuff I ate was kind of weird and he didn’t like it,” she says with a laugh. “I was like, ‘OK, there has got to be a way that we can do this and have the same meal.’ ” Josette started experimenting, and developed the pancake recipe consumers can now buy online and in stores. It is the same recipe she made in her home in suburban Boston. The family made its way back to Central Oregon by way of California. Josette’s husband is a Central Oregon native, and the couple wanted to raise their children in the area. Products Designed for All Josie’s Best Gluten Free offers a variety of products for consumers, made in a facility For the 2019 holiday season, Josette offered customers a locally made spoon with her mixes. free of gluten and eight other common PHOTO BY COURTNEY COBB allergens. “This is important because a lot of Muffin & More all-purpose blend. Josette The blends come in 18 ounces and people have different allergies,” Josette says. says the Muffin & More opened up many 5-pound packages for consumers, as well “If you are gluten-free, you might also be doors to consumers and stores because the as 5-pound and 25-pound options for nut-free, and also soy-free or dairy-free.” mix can be used for rolls, breads, cookies, restaurants or food service. With the mixes, consumers can add brownies, pie crusts and more. “On Amazon, we have some multipacks, eggs and milk, or make it vegan. “It’s really fun and versatile,” she says. “I but those are special there,” Josette says. The company offers four products: The probably use that one the most because I “You can buy them at all the Market of Pancake, The Crepe, The Waffle and The use it for all my baking in general.” Choice stores in Oregon, Newport Avenue 28 F E B R U A RY 2020
Market and Food 4 Less.”
The product is available at Whole
Foods, Locavore, CE Lovejoys and the
Camp Sherman Store. Several boutique
stores and small grocery stores around
the country stock the brand. Consumers
can order directly from the website, www.
josiesbestgf.com.
Many restaurants within and outside
Central Oregon use Josette’s mixes, such
as The Original Pancake House, McKay
Cottage and Tumalo Coffee House.
Seeing her products on the shelves is
still a thrill.
“My kids, when we are in a grocery
store, will shout out, ‘My gosh, there is
your stuff,’ ” she says with a laugh. “I try
not to let myself bask in that too much, but
it is really awesome.”
An Entrepreneur in Central Oregon
Josie’s Best Gluten Free is a small business.
Employees include Josette, her husband, a Josie’s Best gluten-free mixes can be used to make a wide variety of food. PHOTO
COURTESY OF JOSIE’S BEST
part-time person to help with social media
and Amazon, and occasionally Josette’s Light and Airy Dinner Rolls
three children. She says her kids are more These are light with a crunchy crust. They are gluten free and vegan.
often cheerleaders than employees.
Being an entrepreneur in the Sisters area 2 cups warm water
has been a good experience for Josette. She 1 packet rapid rise yeast
says the community is very supportive, and 1 teaspoon sugar
many people have reached out to help. 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
“There are a lot of people I can bounce ½ cup olive oil
ideas off of,” Josette says. 3 cups Muffin and More mix
She says consumers’ participation in her 2 teaspoons salt
business matters. She encourages buyers to 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, optional
tell the grocery store how much they loved
it, or review the product on Amazon or Dissolve sugar in water and sprinkle yeast on top to proof. Yeast should be foamy in
social media. about 5 minutes. If you have fresh yeast, you don’t need to worry too much about it
“That’s truly how our business has proofing.
grown,” Josette says, “organically, through Add apple cider vinegar and olive oil to yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. Add Muffin
people like that.” and More mix, salt and rosemary. Mix well. You will have a thick, sticky batter.
Josette says she would like to introduce crape down the sides of the bowl. Cover the bowl with a wet dish towel. Place in a
S
several new products to consumers in the warm location to rise for at least 1 to 2 hours.
next few years, and offer tutorials on how fter the batter rises, heat oven to 400 F. You will have a very foamy batter. Gently
A
to use the mixes. scoop into well-greased muffin tins for rolls and into a well-greased loaf pan for a
“On social media, we have a narrative French bread-type of loaf.
where we take requests for recipes,” she
Bake 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through, depending on the size of rolls, loaf, etc.
says. “We do little tutorials to be genuinely Remove while slightly warm and enjoy.
helpful to people with food allergies and
making them food that’s yummy with Source: Josie’s Best Gluten Free
classic tastes and textures.” n
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 29CENTRAL ELECTRIC Central Electric Cooperative members share their views on a variety of topics including customer service, handling of outages, and rates. CEC Member Satisfaction Reaches All-Time High Central Electric Cooperative members who attitudes to how the co-op is meeting their also generated more than 1,300 comments, participated in the co-op’s 2019 member needs. The results reinforce the value of taking the opportunity to express opinions satisfaction survey expressed a resounding our efforts and further motivate us to on a range of topics. satisfaction with the co-op. provide members with the quality service Members gave favorable ratings in Of the 2,735 respondents, 78% indicated they deserve.” dependable, reliable service (98%); they were “highly satisfied”—an all-time Independent research firm DHM reasonable rates (88%); keeping members high showing a 3% improvement from Research of Portland administered the informed of changes affecting service or the last survey—and 15% were “somewhat 46-question survey online from September rates (92%); timely responses to outages satisfied,” combining for a 93% satisfaction 15 through October 15. The survey was (91%); knowledgeable and helpful rate, which ranks 18% higher than the open to every CEC member. On average, employees (89%); and keeping members national average for electric cooperatives. the survey took approximately 10 minutes informed about energy efficiency (88%). The number of participants in CEC’s to complete and let members anonymously “Overwhelmingly, members ranked survey also reached a new high, with a rate the co-op. reliable service and reasonable rates as 39% increase from 2016. Members rated the cooperative on issues most important to them,” Dave says. “We greatly appreciate the higher level customer service, handling of outages, “The results only reaffirm CEC’s ongoing of member participation,” says CEO Dave billing and payment practices, rates, investment to fortify its electric system Markham. “The feedback helps paint a energy efficiency and preferred methods of for the future. I am also proud to say more accurate picture of our members’ communication with the co-op. Members CEC’s rates are still well below the state 4 F E B R U A RY 2020
How Good a Job is CEC Doing
Providing Services?
Dependable, reliable service Excellent Good 97%
Timely maintenance responses 91%
Responsive customer service 90%
Knowledgeable, helpful employees 89%
Rates, service communications 91%
Energy efficiency communications 88%
Reasonable rates 89%
Member political advocacy 65% Don’t Know: 33%
DHM RESEARCH | CENTRAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2019 MEMBER SURVEY | OCTOBER 2019
2
Satisfaction with Central Electric Satisfaction with Interpersonal
Cooperative Customer Service
Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Somewhat dissatisfied Very dissatisfied DK/NA
2019 2016 2014
5% 6% 5%
15% Service or information you received 75% 20%
17% 16%
Answering phones during business
78% 16% 5%
hours
93% 92% 92%
78% 76% Service provided by linemen,
75% 59% 9% 30%
engineers and field personnel
Answer phones during nights and
50% 14% 34%
weekends
DHM RESEARCH | CENTRAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2019 MEMBER SURVEY | OCTOBER 2019 3
DHM RESEARCH | CENTRAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2019 MEMBER SURVEY | OCTOBER 2019
1
and national average.” investment and improving the resale value Assistant, as another tool to communicate
The survey also sought to gain insight of one’s home rounded out the list. with them.
into members’ attitudes toward improving Central Electric solicited members on To all who participated in the
energy efficiency in their homes. Members their preferred form of communications survey, thank you. Central Electric has
were asked to rank, in order of importance, with the co-op. Predominately, 85% of administered the satisfaction survey to
five potential benefits of energy-efficiency members use email or phone to contact members since the 1980s. Throughout
improvements. Topping the list was CEC, while others opt for in-person the years, the survey has played an
members’ desire to see a lower electric interaction with customer service instrumental role in affording members a
bill, followed by improving the comfort in representatives. Members also expressed venue to express their sentiments on how
their homes. Reducing adverse impacts on some interest in the co-op using voice well CEC provides service. The next survey
the environment, getting a return on the technologies, such as Alexa and Google will be in 2021.
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5COOS-CURRY ELECTRIC
Delilah delivered eight
puppies at the Wild Rivers
Animal Rescue in Gold Beach.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WILD
RIVERS ANIMAL RESCUE
Adopt and Rescue at Animal Shelters
By Miranda Thompson around February 2019, lived at the South him to four other cats and two dogs in
Coast Humane Society for about six her home. Would the other pets bully
Walking into an animal shelter pulls at months. Eugene lost both eyes due to him? How would he adapt to strange new
people’s heartstrings. Innocent dogs and a respiratory illness. Kaleigh Brown of surroundings?
cats return gazes, some confused and some Brookings decided it was time to adopt Yet Kaleigh was drawn to Eugene and
scared, others overly excited for a visitor. a new cat after another cat of hers died. once she held him in her arms, she knew
All eagerly await their home. Kaleigh was apprehensive about Eugene’s she had to try to rescue him and welcome
Eugene, a sweet-tempered kitten born difficulties, especially when introducing him into her home.
4 F E B R U A RY 2020Eugene showed Kaleigh just how smart winner was Rick Gray of Brookings, who
and amazing he is when he instantly found generously donated his winnings equally
the dog bed, which he loves. He knows between the two shelters. In December
where the litter box is, and he listens to 2019, Superfly Martini Bar & Grill in
sounds. When Kaleigh taps his food bowl, Brookings sponsored South Coast Humane
he knows it’s time to eat. Society for the annual ChariTree event.
At the South Coast Humane Society in This fundraising event raises money for
Brookings and the Wild Rivers Animal charities and nonprofit organizations by
Rescue in Gold Beach, whether animals auctioning decorated Christmas trees.
were lost and never found, abandoned, Each shelter additionally supports its
abused or saved from euthanization they efforts by operating thrift stores. Wild
are welcomed with open arms and will Rivers Rescue sells logoed merchandise
receive proper treatment, nourishment and and holds dog washes each month for
compassionate loving care. a suggested donation. They also offer
Both are now nonprofit no-kill rescue vaccinations with wellness clinics once
centers, but that wasn’t always the case a month and discount flea medications.
at Wild Rivers Animal Rescue, formerly South Coast Humane Society holds a spay
known as the Curry County impound. and neuter clinic three times a month,
Resident Catherine Powers saw a need and on the third Saturday of each month
for an animal rescue in Gold Beach they hold a wellness clinic focused on
and transformed the impound into a minor issues such as skin conditions and
compassionate animal rescue. The rescue infections. They also offer a variety of
averages of 10-20 adult dogs, 14 puppies vaccinations and treatments for dogs and
and 20-40 cats at any one time. Eugene spent six months at South Coast cats, and microchipping, a tiny tag that can
Humane Society before being adopted
This past summer, a timid, sweet dog PHOTO COURTESY SOUTH COAST HUMANE be implanted in your pet to electronically
showed up at the doorstep of Wild Rivers SOCIETY identify them if they are lost or stolen.
Animal Rescue in Gold Beach. Delilah, as A shelter can’t succeed without
they named her, was injured, but staff had will not turn animals away for any reason. volunteers. While each shelter has paid
no idea the extent of her injuries or what She believes taking in all rescues provides staff, volunteers are essential. There
caused them, according to Kim Schlack, love and support for not just the animals, are a variety of ways to volunteer, from
Wild Rivers’ board president. Their best but the community as well. hands-on work with animals and office
guess was that she was hit by a car. A short To help animals find their forever tasks, to organizing fundraisers or helping
time later they discovered Delilah was home, South Coast Humane Society in the thrift store and more. There is a
pregnant. Delilah recovered with the care holds quarterly adoption events with need for volunteers of all kinds. A shelter
of the staff and volunteers and delivered PetSmart. They also recently started a may put a call out to the community
eight pups. Two pups appeared to be program called “Adoption Sleepover.” This asking for help with a specific event. For
stillborn. Astonishingly, the staff at the program provides prospective adopters example, Wild Rivers Rescue asked for
center coaxed the pups back to life. an opportunity to bring a dog into their volunteers to help comfort the animals
South Coast Humane Society in home for 48 hours. This allows a meet and during the fireworks display at the Port
Brookings was started by volunteers in greet to see how the pet does in a home, of Gold Beach because the noise causes
1992 and is managed by Jenifer Alcorn. lets them meet other pets and family distress and confuses animals. This past
Prior to moving to the area three years members and helps ensure a good fit. year, approximately 20 people showed up
ago, Jenifer volunteered with the Animal Jenifer estimates the program has a 70% to sit with and calm the animals. n
Compassion Team (ACT) in Fresno, success rate.
California, and has brought ideas north. Rescue centers are nonprofit and not Whether you can give by volunteering or
donating, our local shelters welcome all help!
One important change was developing a typically subsidized by the county or state. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer,
socialization plan between animals at the Both South Coast Humane Society and adopting a pet or need information about the
shelter. At maximum capacity, South Coast Wild Rivers Animal Rescue are funded services they provide, please contact your
local shelter.
can hold 150 animals—about 35 dogs primarily from donations, fundraisers and
and 115 cats. However, Jenifer does not grants. That makes community support South Coast Humane Society-Brookings
828 Railroad St.
like to overcrowd the facility as it leads to pivotal to their success. In September 541-412-0325
behavioral issues and reduces the amount 2019, The Rotary Club of Brookings-
Wild Rivers Animal Rescue-Gold Beach
of quality time volunteers can spend with Harbor put on its annual “Raining Cats & 29921 Airport Way
each animal. By the same token, Jenifer Dogs” fundraiser. The $5,000 grand prize 541-247-2514
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5SURPRISE VALLEY
Halle Havel, left, and Sadie Greer enjoy a summer morning on the shore of Lake Cottonwood.
Summer Lake
Photos and story display their catch of fish.
at
the
around the campfire, hiking High School shop students built
by Toni Bailie The boys are staying at Camp to Cougar Peak and the smell cabins to replace the original
Cottonwood, where the Greer- of pine trees,” Sheryl says. “At platform tents. With a grant
Cottonwood Lake, a Anderson family reunion has our annual family reunion, from Readers Digest, the 4-H
blue gem rimmed by tall been held for the past 10 years. we have had thunderstorms, club painted the cabins red.
In the early years, Sheryl rain, even snow. We like the “My husband, Roy, towed
Ponderosa Pine, is 28 Smith’s mother, Norma privacy. There is something for the cabins up with a lowboy,”
mile drive from Lakeview, Anderson, and aunt Zola all ages—kayaks, basketball, Phyllis says. “At first there was
Oregon. Partin were cooks for 4-H hide-and-seek and community just a cook shack, and we ate
This is home to Camp campers. Sheryl, 72, came to bonfires. meals outside. Then we added
Cottonwood, which got its Camp Cottonwood at age 9 Last year, Don and Ilana a dining hall.”
start in 1949 when a group with a group of Girl Scouts. Bach were married here, with Phyllis spearheaded the
of volunteers established a They swam in a pond called a Chesapeake Bay retriever effort to keep the camp up to
summer camp Lake County the Big Muddy, which became giving the bride away.” code.
youth. a lake after a dam was built on For many years, Phyllis Kerr “I took care of things up
At the dock, Hunter, John the creek. was president of Cottonwood there,” she says.
and Andrew Greer proudly “I remember singing Camp Inc. She says Lakeview Originally they had an
4 F E B R U A RY 2020Sleeping arrangements at Camp Cottonwood have evolved from the early days. Wood “cookies” commemorate some of the campers
Cabins have replaced tents on wooden platforms. who have stayed at the camp.
old cooler building with wet bathroom building and
gunny sacks on top. This was
“I fell in love with Cottonwood. It’s such provided funds from their
replaced by a freezer and a beautiful spot. I wanted to keep it for annual auction to put
refrigerator in the cook house. foundations under four cabins.
After catching bats in gallon
the kids of Lake County. It was worth Ten years ago, when heavy
pails in the kitchen, they had to working for.” snow collapsed a cabin roof,
bat-proof the building. Then a the Lakeview shop class built
—PHYLLIS KERR
bear ambled into camp, so they another cabin.
made a rule that garbage cans enjoyed 4-H camp as a child. camp host during the 2019 Camp Cottonwood is
had to be kept inside. Now she helps host the FFA season, checking campers in open from mid-June to mid-
“I fell in love with District Leadership gathering, and out. September. Last year, 12 groups
Cottonwood,” Phyllis says. “It’s which has been held at Camp “It was a privilege to spend reserved the camp for family
such a beautiful spot. I wanted Cottonwood for 20 years. three months living in such a and class reunions, church
to keep it for the kids of Lake “We have 75 to 80 students beautiful place,” Margot says. “I gatherings, cross-country track
County. It was worth working and 8 to 12 advisers,” met a number of people who team and Lake County Search
for.” Kristy says. “We all enjoy have come for years. One family and Rescue.
Campers sleep in cabins fun competitions, canoe celebrates wedding anniversaries “We would love to have more
equipped with bunks. Besides races, opening and closing for three different couples who kids’ groups,” Joanne says. “We
outhouses, there are flush toilets ceremonies.” got married at the camp. Several no longer have Girl Scouts in
and a big shower room. The Joanne McCreith has people came as Girl Scouts Lakeview, and the Boy Scouts
large kitchen and dining hall scheduled events since the before any cabins were built, go on wilderness outings.”
has a fireplace and a variety early 1990s. Every summer, she and returned for their 50th high Fees for using the camp
of board games. For group attends the Lakeview Ministries school reunion. There’s a lot of are $150 a day for up to 25
activities, there is an outdoor campout. history at Camp Cottonwood people, with a $7.50 charge
pavilion and a large fire ring. “It’s the high point of the and a lot of devoted volunteer for each additional camper.
The small lake invites anglers to year,” Joanne says. “I bring my time that keeps it going.” A $200 cleaning fee is waived
try their luck and swimmers to 9-year-old granddaughter. She The board members who if a group participates in the
splash on a hot day. lives in Portland and really oversee camp operation are annual work day or helps with
Through the years, Camp likes the camp. The kids play in Daniel Tague, Carmen Tague, maintenance projects. n
Cottonwood has hosted adult the water, adults sit by the lake Mo Plato, Joanne McCreith, To make a reservation, contact
and youth camps, family to visit, and we have a Saturday Evan Reese and Kristy Reese. Joanne McCreith at 541-326-
reunions and church retreats. night service and group The camp is maintained by 1147 or jmccreith@icloud.
com, or Carmen Tague at 541-
Kristy Reese, FFA adviser campfire.” fees and donations. The Lions 905-6956, email carment@
at Lakeview High School, Margot Dodds served as Club built a cement-block andersonengineering.com.
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5LANE ELECTRIC
Wine host Brittany Jensen pours wine in the tasting room at Sweet Cheeks Winery & Vineyard. PHOTO BY GREG REED
A Valentine’s of Wine & Chocolate
By Craig Reed
Six local wineries and tasting SWEET CHEEKS Sweet Cheeks was established in 1978
rooms in the Lane Electric WINERY AND VINEYARD when Dan Smith planted a vineyard that
27007 Briggs Hill Road eventually grew to 40 acres. He supplied
Cooperative service area will 541-349-9463 his grapes to local wineries.
be provide romantic back- In 2003, Dan bought a building
It’s your choice of cheeses, chocolates and scheduled for demolition in Junction City
drops and dinners for your wines at your choice of two Sweet Cheeks and relocated it to his vineyard. After a
Valentine’s Day. tasting rooms on Valentine’s Day. major renovation, the building opened in
Sweet Cheeks has two tasting rooms: 2005 as the winery and tasting room.
one at its winery and vineyard near Crow, Dan died in 2018, and his family is
the other on downtown Eugene’s East 5th carrying on his wine legacy. His wife, Beth,
St. Both rooms are open from noon to is president and CEO. Her daughter, Katie
9 p.m. on Valentine’s Day. On the 19th, Brown, is the marketing director. Dan’s
the 5th Street tasting room will host a granddaughter, Jessica Thomas, serves as
chocolate and wine pairing workshop. general manager.
4 F E B R U A RY 2020Romance is in the air at Noble Estate Vineyard and Winery.
Noble Estate will serve wines, chocolates and sweets on
Valentine’s Day. PHOTO COURTESY OF NOBEL ESTATE
SARVER WINERY NOBLE ESTATE KING ESTATE WINERY
25600 Mayola Lane VINEYARD AND WINERY 80854 Territorial Hwy.
541-935-2979 Noble Estate Urban Tasting Room 541-942-9874
560 Commercial St.
Live music is in the air and chocolates are 541-338-3007 Let your joy bubble over this Valentine’s.
on the menu, plus designable charcuterie Seasonal entrees and sparkling wine are
boards are available at the Sarver Winery A Noble Night of Passion is scheduled at served at King Estate Winery, according
tasting room. the Noble Estate Urban tasting room from to Connor Morey, the winery’s food and
“You can build your own cheese and 5 to 9:30 p.m. beverage director.
meat plates,” says Carly Miller, the winery’s Henry Cooper and Friends provides live “A sparkling wine like blanc de gris is
event coordinator. music, Pillage Pizza serves food, Brutto ma perfect for your special evening,” he says.
Chris and Erin Sarver own the business Buono delivers chocolates and the winery Reservations for the King Estate
that started in 1984 when Bob and Betty serves numerous Noble wines, including a restaurant are encouraged. There is inside
McKinney cleared the property at the semi-sparkling Passion rosé. seating for 80 guests. The last seating is
southern end of the Willamette Valley. The “We usually have a full house,” says Amy at 8 p.m., and guests receive a take-home
McKinney’s planted the lot with pinot noir Shadell, the winery’s manager. chocolate dessert.
and pinot gris vines. Owner Mark Jurasevich established King Estate Winery is an organic winery
The 35-acre vineyard ended up with Noble Estate Vineyard and Winery in 1999 southwest of Eugene, near Lorane. The
five varietals, producing estate wines from with a planting of pinot noir. The 10-acre winery was founded in 1991 by Ed King Jr.
each. The winery also buys grapes from vineyard is off Gimpl Hill Road, southwest and his son, Ed King III.
Washington and Southern Oregon for the of Eugene. Mark produced the winery’s The organic vineyard totals 465 acres,
production of several other wines. first commercially available wine in 2000. plus another 30 acres of fruits, vegetables
and flowers that are used in the restaurant.
Continues on page 8
F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 5Valentine’s
Continued from page 5
The Silvan Ridge Winery tasting room overlooks a vineyard and has a more casual Valentine’s experience. PHOTO BY CRAIG REED
SILVAN RIDGE Carolyn’s daughter, Liz Chambers, took Day. Charcuterie and cheese boards are
WINERY over management of the business’ daily available, and visitors are welcome to
27012 Briggs Hill Road operation. Liz became the sole owner in bring their own picnics to enjoy with Iris’
541-345-1945 2012. In 2013, Liz’s daughter, Julia, joined selection of wines.
the business. Julia and her husband, Twenty minutes southwest of Eugene in
Heart-shaped pizzas from a wood-fired Andrew, became the owners in 2018. the eastern foothills of the Coast Range,
oven and a variety of wines are matched at Iris Vineyards has 50 acres in production.
Silvan Ridge Winery. The winery specializes in producing
“This is more casual, if you don’t want IRIS VINEYARDS pinot noir, pinot gris and chardonnay. Iris
to fight the traditional dinner crowds on 82110 Territorial Hwy. Vineyards also makes several other wines.
Valentine’s Day,” says Angela Jaquette, the 541-242-6588 Richard Boyles and Pamela Frye own
winery’s general manager. and operate Iris Vineyards. Prior to the
The tasting room, with inside seating Iris Vineyards introduces a new rosé this planting of their vineyard in 1996, the
for 140, is family friendly. The winery will Valentine’s Day. It will be available to all two learned about the industry by visiting
release a new wine the week of Valentine’s. who celebrate the holiday at the Iris tasting wineries in the Willamette Valley and in
The winery’s 5-acre vineyard was room this year. Washington. While working in Europe, the
established in 1979 by Doyle Hinman. The tasting room, which overlooks pair toured vineyards in France, Germany
In 1993, Carolyn Chambers purchased the vineyard, maintains its normal and Switzerland.
the vineyard and winery. Two years later, hours of noon to 5 p.m. on Valentine’s Iris’ first vintage was released in 2001. n
8 F E B R U A RY 2020BLACHLY-LANE
Becky Cornforth, left, and Edie Moro at Goldson Grange, where they strive to give community members a place to meet. PHOTO BY CRAIG REED
GRANGE POWER
A rural institution from bygone era still has purpose in today’s modern world
By Craig Reed activist, developed the grange has made communicating “Our community needs the
concept in 1867. He believed much easier. But granges still grange facility,” says Maxine
Granges are grassroots farmers—a scattered and exist under the leadership of Worthylake, the Triangle
independent group—needed older generations. Grange master. “Other than
organizations that a national organization to Those granges hold monthly a church, there is no other
bring members of rural represent them. Grange meetings and offer a wide range gathering place for events like
communities together. members lobbied on behalf of programs and activities for all weddings or funerals. Originally,
Members discuss of rural residents, focusing on ages. The buildings are available the grange was focused on
community concerns, they schools and education in those to rent for gatherings such agriculture and a place for
schedule social events and plan early years. The Extension as town meetings, potlucks, farmers to gather, but now it is
community service projects. Service, the Rural Free Delivery reunions, dances, weddings and about helping the community.”
The Blachly-Lane Electric program for the distribution other special events. Triangle Grange holds a
Cooperative service area of mail and the Farm Credit Mother’s Day breakfast and
includes three granges: System also came about thanks Triangle Grange a Father’s Day breakfast, a
Goldson Grange, Long Tom to lobbying from the grange. The grange in the Triangle Lake chicken barbecue on the
Grange and Triangle Grange. Today, granges don’t have community was organized in Fourth of July, a Halloween
Oliver Hudson Kelley, the memberships they had 1915 with an initial membership party and bible study classes
a Minnesota farmer and decades ago. There are fewer of 38. Membership grew to as for elementary school children
rural residents and technology high as 90, but is now at 20. each Tuesday evening during
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