Volunteers build trails—and appreciation—through recreation paradise By Drew Myron Dense forests, dramatic basalt cliffs, majestic river views: The Columbia Gorge is a recreation mecca. Thanks to three volunteer groups, the area’s best—and most popular—trails survive and thrive. While on one of these paths through paradise, recreationists should give a nod to Hood River Area Trail […]
Kristin Reese empowers others in supporting role Story and photos by Drew Myron Everyone loves Kristin Reese, but she doesn’t want to hear it. Though she has earned awards, fellowships, and adoration from area youth, Kristin turns from attention. “Oh, I don’t want to talk about me,” she says, in a practiced pivot. “I want […]
Hood River Electric Cooperative trims trees and removes vegetation to improve safety and keep the power on Despite our best efforts to maintain a safe and reliable power system, Mother Nature often has the last word. Strong winds snap trees like toothpicks. Heavy rains saturate the ground, weakening tree root systems. Ice and heavy snowfall […]
Meals on Wheels feeds the hungry as need doubles Story and photos by Drew Myron Feeding hundreds of people each day, the Hood River Valley Adult Center is swamped with need. Cars line the parking lot for meals to go, while inside a cramped kitchen a busy trio prepares hot meals for delivery throughout Hood […]
Odell company is known nationally Story by Drew Myron An Odell factory that began as one man working nights in his garage is now a nationally known brand selling to Grainger, Fastenal, Subaru, and other industry giants. Champion Tool Storage, founded by Garin Buckles, is a leading manufacturer of high-quality steel tool storage cabinets. The […]
Future Folk Supply Co. joins past and present in artful form Story and photos by Drew Myron In a world of fast shipping, fast food, and fast fashion, Tiffany and Jason George are slowing the quick-fix factory by building things that last. In 2014, the entrepreneur couple founded Future Folk Supply Co., a business that […]
By Drew Myron Martha Verduzco rallies for change Even without a megaphone, Martha Verduzco commands a crowd—not because she is loud, but because she is driven, energized, and working hard for change. A leader in Hood River’s Latino community, Martha has been called a true force in the Gorge. “Martha is fire, and she is […]
In tough times, an outdoor diner finds its niche Story and photos by Drew Myron Never made coffee. Nearly no food experience. A global health crisis. This is not the recipe for success. Against all odds and timing, Pour Girls is experiencing unexpected achievement. What began as a coffee cart on a struggling corner lot […]
Hood River Valley growers work through new rules By Drew Myron Maija Yasui is searching for toilets. At the peak of harvest, her family farm employs 140 workers, and she is working hard to keep them safe. “We need more port-a-potties,” she says, calculating the sweeping changes a pandemic brings. “They must be no more […]
Pine Grove Artist Captures Natural Beauty By Drew Myron Sue Moore sees in trees: alder, oak, fir, pine, and more. “I like the woods, being around the trees and nature,” says Sue, a Pine Grove painter inspired by the natural world. “It’s where I find peace and serenity and the whole workings of the world. […]
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