Summer 2012
THIRTY YEARS AGO, GIVE OR TAKE, the steady west wind blew the first windsurfers into the Gorge. A decade later, mountain bikers and kayakers arrived, putting the Gorge on the map as a recreation nirvana. Another 10 years or so passed and kiteboarding exploded onto the scene. Now, just about on schedule, the Gorge is once again at the forefront of an outdoor recreation phenomenon: stand-up paddling. This might be the first time, however, that the activity-du-jour is so indiscriminate; it doesn’t require the intimidating combination of skill, gumption and often painfully-long learning curves that some of the Gorge’s other outdoor pursuits demand. With minimal instruction and easy-to-comprehend gear, you can achieve instant gratification. Paradoxically, there’s something in it for the adrenaline junkies, too-whitewater SUP and downwinder paddling. In short, stand-up paddling is many things to many people, and judging by the number of stand-up paddlers in the Gorge, it’s many things to more and more people all the time. We take a look at what all the fun is about starting on page 38.
Speaking of fun, Don Campbell offers his take on “blue-collar” golf, and explores some of the stunning courses in the Gorge, starting on page 20. Ruth Berkowitz checks out the sailboat racing scene (page 48), with its strongholds in Cascade Locks and Hood River. She also writes about some Hood River blueberry farmers whose unique property offers much more than just delicious u-pick berries (page 60). Gorge foodie and blogger Kacie McMackin creates a tasty summer meal on page 62, and makes knowledgeable suggestions about wine and beer pairings. Erika Rench explores the intricacies of a Japanese garden (page 52), and starting on page 54, Adam Lapierre looks at the unique collaboration of several local agencies that are working to restore native habitat and reduce fire danger in volatile areas of the Gorge. And there’s more. Pull up a lawn chair and dive in. Then, get out there and enjoy sweet summertime in the Gorge.
JANET COOK, Editor
