Fall 2014
Fifteen years ago this summer, my husband and I got married in Mosier. We were living in Hood River, but chose to celebrate this special occasion at a farm in the Mosier Valley because it just seemed the perfect place. And it was the perfect place. The snapshots in my mind from that day click from the tall grasses and wildflowers waving in the breeze to the sun setting over the orchards and hills of Mosier to the view of the Syncline across the river. The setting provided a stunning backdrop to our festivities and a happy vibe permeated everything. All these years later, I still feel enchanted by Mosier.
As we’ve come to know the Gorge over the years, we’ve learned that residents of this unique town have a similar passion for the place. Many of them love their town so much that they’ve come together and spent months preparing to celebrate Mosier’s centennial in September. A beautification campaign has spruced up downtown in preparation for a weekend-long celebration Sept. 13-14, which includes a parade, live music, kids’ activities, an art walk, history talks and re-enactments, museum displays and more. Writer Don Campbell explores the history, people and places that make Mosier what it is, beginning on page 47. Also in this issue you’ll find a captivating story about what it’s like to be a member of the Crag Rats, Hood River’s volunteer mountain rescue team. The Crag Rats are the oldest mountain search and rescue organization in the country, founded in 1926. Writer Christopher Van Tilburg, a Crag Rats member, gives a first-person account of some of the grueling rescues he’s helped with, starting on page 59.
And in celebration of beautiful autumn in the Gorge, we feature highlights from the Gorge wine region— including a story about Viento Wines—beginning on page 34; a photo essay on barns (page 54); and some classic Gorge hikes for all abilities (page 64). There’s also a story about Blue Bus Cultured Foods in Bingen (page 24), Hood River Family Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine clinic (page 72), and Wildcraft Studio School, located in the hills above White Salmon (page 68). And there’s more in here. Take it in, then head out and enjoy fall’s bounty in the Gorge.
Janet Cook, editor
