Giving Thanks

To The Eagle,

The banner hanging on the staircase leading to the massive doors at the historic Cathlamet Pioneer Center reads “It’s Happening Here”. For several years the “It” that was happening was a substantial renovation; a literal from top to bottom facelift. Doors were closed as a new roof, exterior/interior painting, foundation repairs, basement waterproofing and lower-level remodeling were completed. Once those doors reopened the Pioneer Center was back serving the Community with renewed energy and plans for future utilization.

Our Mission Statement at the Pioneer Community Association (PCA) directs us to “preserve and maintain the historic Pioneer Center building for community use as a cultural arts and performance center, and a public meeting venue for use by the Cathlamet Public Library and the Town of Cathlamet.” In the last eighteen months we have filled the Center with both great music and appreciative patrons.

Concerts included a classically trained pianist from the East Coast and just recently, a Folk-Pop Duo from Oregon. Highlighting mid-summer was the spirited performance of “Shel Silverstein Poems & Songs” from local youth attending our first ever week-long Musical Theater Camp. Beginning on August 10, local musicians, led by Leah Stonum & Mel Drybread, gave us eleven Saturday afternoons of wonderful Live, Themed Music Shows.

As we wrap up this incredible year it could be said that we are saving the best for the last because everyone’s favorite local band, Skamokawa Swamp Opera, is doing a fundraiser performance on December 6 at 4 p.m. Tickets will be available for $10 at the door. Our last event in 2024 is the always free, fun and festive all community sing-along and cookie eating extravaganza, FA LA, on December 13 at 4 p.m. You can always bring a plate of cookies to share, and we’d love it if you contributed an ornament for the Community Christmas Tree.

Giving thanks at this time of the year is a long-honored tradition. The PCA extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone that made 2024 such a success. Let’s continue working together and make “It’s Happening Here!” not just our call to action, but our legacy.

Suzanne Holmes

Cathlamet