Downriver Dispatches

Ingenuity in Wahkiakum County

People have migrated as individuals, in small groups, and, in many cases, entire peoples have moved their life’s possessions and cultures to new horizons with the intention of creating a better life.

Those who settled here in Wahkiakum County brought with them their talents and courage. Those who left their homes from other countries or from the eastern part of the United States braved the new frontiers in the Pacific Northwest.

Those who traveled west by wagon train are the ones that fascinate me for several reasons. First of all, these hard working people knew how to not only cut down trees, but they also were able to fashion anything their hearts desired from the same wood. All the skills it took to survive the harsh winters would be another skill that they passed on to the next generation. The hardy people quickly adapted and cultivated friendships that have generational ties. Their shared experiences have influenced and inspired others because of the ingenuity they used in their adapting to a new home.

I have seen some of this ingenuity with two men who showed me their personal genius. In both cases, each man used only those items that many would throw away in the trash. The first man made a homemade apple press to make apple juice to deal with the enormous volume of apples he had. It would be too difficult to describe, but suffice it to say it worked well. The other man took a bicycle and rigged a gas powered weed eater motor to the gears in a way that propelled the bike forward. The only hitch was that it had to be pushed first before it would go on its own because it didn’t have a clutch.

These men in this county past and present had to have had someone influence them and teach them the ability to think outside of the box in order to perform these unsung feats of ingenuity.

Something nice to do in Cathlamet

For those who may or may not be familiar with Tsuga Gallery on Main Street in Cathlamet this Friday, 5-7 p.m., Becky Ledtke will be the featured artist displaying her “Heavy Stone Jewelry.” Gerry and Becky Ledtke, with a special appearance by Cliff Garrison, will be playing music for your entertainment. Admission is free. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Skamakowa Grange Open Mic

If you missed the last open mic and wanted to attend, then now is the chance to mark your calendar for March 23 for a fun night of music and singing. Admission is free. The coffee is always on, and snacks will be available. Sign up is at 3:45 p.m. with the open mic beginning at 4 p.m. A jam session will follow. Skamokawa Grange #425 is located at 18 Fairgrounds Road. For additional information contact Gerry Ledtke at 360-795-3434. Donations to the Skamokawa Grange are always greatly appreciated.

In the Westend

The Naselle/Grays River Valley Seniors luncheon meets every Wednesday at noon and all those who are 55 and older can join; also the potluck will be at the Valley Bible Church on every fourth Wednesday. Anyone interested in renting the Rosburg Hall is encouraged to contact Sonja Kruse at 465-2251 or Barbara Rose at 465-2251. Thursday luncheon at noon at the Rosburg Hall is sponsored by the Community Action Program (CAP) out of Kelso/Longview. Any questions, contact Denise Rae at (360) 425-3430 extension 259.

Don’t forget that there is still an open invitation to vendors and individuals who wish to participate in Grays River Valley Community Center’s 6th annual Super Sale. Participants will be able to rent a table to promote their business. The event will be held on March 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Items can be used, new, crafts, vintage, antiques. There will be over 50 table spaces available, approximately 6' x 10' plus room outside. The cost for the first table is just $10; each additional space will be $5. Set up will be on March 22 from 2-8 p.m. You can mail or call in your reservation. All reservations need to include payment. For more information and to make your reservation call 360-465-2310, if there is no answer, please leave a message and they will get back to you as soon as possible.

In Naselle

The Naselle Timberland Library is located at 4 Parpala Rd, Naselle. Play Group is held every Tuesday at noon through March 26 for children birth to six years of age with a participating adult. The first Friday of every month until June 7 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. children of all ages can make amazing Lego constructions, and display them at the library. All designs will be on display for one week after the program. The first Saturday of every month join them for their Family Movie Matinee at 1 p.m. They will provide the popcorn; you bring a pillow to sit on.