Ruralite, Benton REA, August 2026

High Desert Museum Welcomes Little Wonders Family Night program celebrates 10th year

By Ginger Meurer

The High Desert Museum has welcomed visitors to Bend, Oregon, for exhibitions, wildlife encounters and educational explorations since 1982. For the past 10 years, that invitation has extended to preschoolers who might not otherwise visit.

Through a partnership with NeighborImpact’s Head Start, a program offering free preschool and education and health services to local families, the museum puts on annual Little Wonders Family Nights. This year’s events were April 2 and 9.

Families from the Head Start programs in Bend, La Pine, Prineville, Redmond and Sisters are encouraged to register for the evening, where they join Head Start teachers, museum staff and volunteers for dinner, exhibit browsing and special hands-on activities.

But the best part is, all the families that register—whether they can attend or not—receive a free two-year family membership to the museum, a $310 value. This year’s Little Wonders Family Nights brought in 750 guests.

Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw says she and her team are grateful for partners at NeighborImpact Head Start and all of the program’s sponsors.

“Together, we’ve helped create meaningful, shared experiences for families across Central Oregon, ensuring the museum is a place where every child can feel welcome and inspired by our exhibitions, wildlife and shared history,” she says.

NeighborImpact Head Start Director Kim Brown says the museum program is just as vital now as when it started.

“Ten years ago, we believed that every child—no matter their family’s circumstances—deserved to stand in front of a living eagle, touch a piece of obsidian and feel the wonder of discovery,” Kim says. “A decade later, Little Wonders has proven something bigger than we imagined. When community partners come together around our most vulnerable kids, the ripple effects last a lifetime. We are more hopeful than ever about what the next 10 years will bring.”

Fun for the Whole Family

Participating families expressed their appreciation for the program. Stefanie Lester and her children loved Little Wonders Night.

“This was my first year attending, and my kids were so excited to do it,” she says, adding that the animals impressed them the most. “The turtles, otters and snakes, for sure! My oldest got to hold a snakeskin. And, of course, they love the porcupine and bobcat.”

The science exhibits were impressive to others, including a trio of girls spotted skipping through the museum, chanting, “Volcanoes! Volcanoes! Volcanoes!” They were likely excited about “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” a temporary exhibit on display through January 2027 that sheds light on the rumbling giants scattered across the planet.

NeighborImpact Director of Marketing and Communications Rachel Haakenson says part of the fun is seeing families taking in the exhibits together.

“One of the most exciting parts for children is running into their teachers and classmates in a completely different setting,” she says. “Seeing familiar faces at the High Desert Museum brings a sense of comfort and connection, but it also adds a new level of energy. Kids get to share discoveries together outside the classroom, and families often connect with each other in more relaxed, informal ways.”

Rachel loves seeing children recognize something they’ve learned in the classroom and then light up when they see it in real life, whether that’s an animal, a landscape feature or a cultural exhibit.

“There’s often a moment when they turn to a parent or teacher and say, ‘I know this,’ and then name it or tell them about it,” she says. “Those moments are powerful because they show learning sticking, and just as importantly, they show families getting to share in that excitement.”

Rachel also likes to see kids take ownership of the space.

Competition builds Special Olympians’ confidence and fitness More Than

By Ginger Meurer

Medals

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games brought 3,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and 75,000 fans from all 50 states to Minnesota. From June 20-26, athletes competed in track and field, basketball, bocce, bowling, cheerleading, cornhole, flag football, golf, gymnastics, pickleball, powerlifting, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis and volleyball.

Special Olympics’ philosophy is focused on building inclusion, self-esteem and athleticism in people with intellectual disabilities.

Local Special Olympics programs around the country encourage athletes of

all ages and skill levels to strive to reach their maximum potential. While Special Olympics USA Games elevate the cause with a massive event every four years, Special Olympics offers state and regional competitions year-round.

Bringing Home the Gold

Special Olympian Kevin Short, of Puyallup, Washington, came home from Minnesota with a gold medal for his performance in the 4x100-meter relay and bronze medals for the 200-meter and 50-meter races.

Kevin says he will never forget the thrill of hearing his name announced as one of only two men to represent Washington in track and field.

He says his coach encouraged everyone on the team to walk every day, set fitness goals and track their progress on an app.

“Kevin beat her and everybody else every day on his steps,” his mother, Gina, says.

As part of his training, Kevin walked his neighborhood and racked up an average of 40,000 to 50,000 steps a week. As he walked, people waved and called out to him.

“I was on the news a couple of times, and one of our games was televised on TV, and a lot of people saw that,” Kevin says. “I’ll be out and hear people say, ‘Hi, Kevin!’ There are so many people who know me.”

Kevin appreciates the opportunities Special Olympics provides.

“It’s a chance for me to be able to get out and be myself and be with my friends and have a good time,” he says.

Gina is delighted her son has achieved so much more than doctors predicted. When Kevin was 1, his pediatrician noticed something was off and sent him to a neurologist. The doctor discovered a tumor and scheduled emergency surgery.

“The neurosurgeon came in to see us that night and told us, ‘Your son has a horrible tumor, and he will die from this. If he lives through this, he won’t graduate from high school, he won’t play sports, and you will probably outlive him,’” Gina says. “I remember looking at this little baby in the hospital bed—the baby who to me was a healthy, happy baby just a few short hours ago—and thinking, ‘Is this the last time I’m going to see him?’”

After surgery, chemotherapy and a second craniotomy, the site appeared to be clear of cancer. But three months later, the tumor was back.

“Kevin had seven and a half weeks, five days a week, of full brain and spine radiation,” Gina says. “At the end of the treatment, I asked one of his doctors what I should expect. She looked at me and said, ‘I haven’t had a child survive the total

amount of treatment that Kevin has had, so I can’t tell you what to expect.’ Kevin is a miracle.”

Despite hearing loss and learning challenges, Kevin graduated from high school.

“It was rough,” Kevin says. “They made the predictions saying, ‘You’ll never do this, you’ll never do that, you’ll never be able to hold a job,’ all these different predictions. And I ended up coming out and showing everybody that I can do everything. I adapted and rose to the challenge, and I’ve met so many people along the way.”

“He’s an athlete now,” Gina says. “And he’s a gold medalist.”

Kevin vows to “continue to be positive and live every day like it’s my last. And take every opportunity that comes my way.”

Personal Bests

Boise, Idaho, Special Olympian Courtney Lynch was also given a grim prognosis as an infant.

“I was 1 pound, 7 ounces, and I had to stay in the hospital for 72 days,” Courtney says. “The doctors told my parents, ‘She won’t walk or talk.’”

Today, Courtney can talk. And she

History of Special Olympics

Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Eunice’s sister, Rosemary, had intellectual disabilities, but she grew up playing sports right alongside her eight siblings, including future U.S. President John F. Kennedy.

Eunice and Rosemary swam, sailed, skied and played football together. But in the late ’50s and ’60s, there were few resources for people like Rosemary.

Eunice became an athlete in college and saw how sports united people from all walks of life. She wanted that for her sister and others like her. So, in 1962, Eunice invited young people with intellectual disabilities to a summer day camp she hosted in her suburban Washington, D.C., backyard.

The goal at Camp Shriver was to explore skills through physical activity. While the family pushed for legislation to increase services for people with intellectual disabilities, Camp Shriver grew. Through the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation, Eunice advanced the goal of establishing year-round activities, not just a single summer camp.

In 1965, she called for a nationwide physical fitness program to include a national tournament of athletic contests starting at the local level. In July 1968, the first International Special Olympics Games were held in Chicago.

Today, Special Olympics puts on more than 100,000 games and competitions every year featuring more than 30 sports. The organization serves more than 4 million athletes with the help of 1 million coaches and volunteers in more than 200 accredited programs.

Athletes are selected for the USA Games through a process managed by individual state organizations. Typically, athletes first qualify by winning a gold medal in their sport at a state game. Once the state gets its quota of athletes it can take to the national competition, local committees use a random draw to see who gets to fill those spots. Selection announcements are made well in advance of the national and international competitions, giving athletes a year or even two years to prepare.

doesn’t just walk, she runs. At the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle, she ran shorter distances—competing in sprints like the 50-meter dash. She had so much fun at the competition, she decided to train for longer distances.

“I was like, ‘Hey, I want a challenge because I love going for challenges and overcoming them and surprising people and myself on what can I accomplish next,’” Courtney says. “At that point, I was like, ‘Hey, I want to try long-distance running,’ and after that I worked really hard, and it took years, but I worked my butt off, and now I’m competing in the 1,500-meter.”

In Minnesota this year, Courtney finished fourth in the 800 meters, sixth in the 1,500 meters and seventh in the 200 meters. But where she placed isn’t what’s important to her. She tracks her performance in personal records.

“When I found out that I was running those distances, I got emotional because there’s people who believed in me, and I needed to believe in myself,” she says.

Courtney says her parents are beyond proud of her.

“They’re blown away,” she says. “There’s stuff they didn’t think that I would ever do, like run a mile. And I’m just blowing them away.”

‘There’s a Way, Always’

When Ben Cox packed his bags in Minnesota to return home to Meridian, Idaho, he had to make room for his medals, including a gold in shot put and two silver medals in mini javelin and the 100 meters.

“It was great,” Ben says. “It was a very cool experience.”

Ben loves the throwing events that take advantage of strength he says he’s had since he was a child. He was surprised to take a silver in his one running event, saying he’s not really a runner.

“But once I get going, I can go pretty well,” he says.

Ben’s advice to others considering competing in the Special Olympics is to go for it.

“Don’t let your disabilities hold you back,” he says. “You’ve got a will, and there’s a way, always.”

Finding Their Voices

Bend, Oregon, golfer Felicity Woods was one of 65 athletes from Oregon who competed in Minnesota. Felicity started swimming and bowling with Special Olympics in high school. But she was most excited about golf—not just because she shares a last name with one of the sport’s most famous players, but because she loves it all, the competition and challenges.

Felicity earned a gold medal at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

“It just feels like that I’m part of this inclusive group,” she says. “I feel involved and like I’m just out there being very well supported by coaches and volunteers. I’m so grateful to be a Special Olympics athlete.”

Even athletes who don’t qualify for the national-level games love competing in Special Olympics and say the community and the competition make their lives better.

Megan Gains, of Washington, says competing keeps her healthy and active.

“Special Olympics has helped me overcome social anxiety and make friends,” she says.

Issaquah, Washington, athlete Garrett Utz was at the 2026 USA Games, not as an athlete but as an official. If Garrett’s soccer team qualifies and is selected—like when his team won bronze in the 2018 USA Games—he plays. But when he’s not kicking the ball, he’s blowing a whistle.

Right after the USA Games, Garrett had a little more than a week at home before flying out to officiate at the Unified Football World Cup 2026 in Paris.

“I had enough time to do laundry and repack,” he says. “Being an official, there’s so much I have to bring. I’m looking at my suitcase duffel full to the brim with all my referee jerseys, shorts, shoes, badges, whistles, cards, referee flags—which the Minnesota-St. Paul, TSA thought were selfie sticks at 4:30 in the morning. They’re too fat to be selfie sticks.”

Despite the challenges of traveling, Garrett loves officiating. During downtime, he gets to play tourist. While in Paris, he visited the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre.

Garrett enthusiastically recommends Special Olympics to anyone considering getting involved.

“A million percent yes,” he says. “I would say without Special Olympics, I would not have found the voice that I have today. I wouldn’t have the support group that I have and all the friends that I have made through Special Olympics Washington and all the people who work at Special Olympics International and all the people that I’ve met. If there’s anyone—wife, uncle, aunt, brother, sister, son, daughter—who has an intellectual disability, or IDD as we call it, they need to join Special Olympics. Join the movement!” n

Visit 2026specialolympicsusagames.org to view event results from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

Get Involved

ABOVE: Garrett Utz holds up a medal he was given for officiating Special

To qualify for the Special Olympics, athletes need to be at least 8 years old and diagnosed by a medical professional or agency as having an intellectual disability, cognitive delay, or closely related developmental disability with functional limitations in learning and adaptive skills.

Even if you don’t qualify as an athlete, there are plenty of ways to join the cause. You can:

X Join through Unified Sports. Several team sports combine Special Olympics athletes with peers without intellectual disabilities to encourage inclusion.

X Join as a coach. Special Olympics provides training for individuals who meet the requirements and volunteer their time.

X Become a volunteer. Volunteers are needed year-round, and commitments can vary from a single day to as long as you’re willing.

X Help as a Global or Champion Ambassador. Current and former professional and college athletes, Olympians and even musicians and actors who are passionate about using their platform to advance inclusion and champion Special Olympics’ mission are always needed.

To get involved, visit specialolympics.org.

Effortlessly Sweet

NO-BAKE SUMMER DESSERTS HIT THE SPOT

Lemon Blueberry Trifle

3 cups fresh blueberries, divided 2 15.75-ounce cans lemon pie filling

2 cups lemon yogurt

Set aside 1/4 cup blueberries for garnish.

1 prepared angel food cake, 8 to 10 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes

8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed

In a large bowl, combine pie filling and yogurt. In a 31/2-quart serving or trifle bowl, layer a third of the cake cubes, lemon mixture and blueberries. Repeat layers twice, then top with whipped topping. Cover. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Garnish with reserved blueberries before serving.

Five-Minute Fruit Mousse

81/2 ounces (about 21/4 cups) frozen fruit

2 tablespoons sugar

1 large egg white

Fresh berries and whipped cream for serving

Add frozen fruit to the bowl of a food processor. Process to a rough puree, about 1 minute. Add the sugar, and pulse briefly to combine.

Add the egg white to the food processor. Process until smooth and fluffy and the mixture has lightened in color and doubled or tripled in volume, about 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon the mousse into glasses. Top or layer with fresh berries and whipped cream. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. The mousse has little sugar and won’t hold for longer than that.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Pie

8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

1 cup peanut butter

1 cup powdered sugar

16-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed

10 peanut butter cups, chopped

1 chocolate cookie pie crust

11/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

Use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and powdered sugar, and mix well. Carefully fold in whipped topping and stir in chopped peanut butter cups, reserving a few for the topping.

Pour mixture into pie crust. Freeze overnight. When ready to serve, beat cream and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Top pie with whipped cream and reserved chopped peanut butter cups before serving.

Banana Pudding Icebox Cake

2/3 cup malted milk powder

1 pinch kosher salt

2 cups heavy cream

7 ounces vanilla wafers

4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced about the same thickness as the wafers

Line an 81/2-by-41/2-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving a fair amount of overhang on all sides.

Add malted milk powder and salt to a bowl. Add a splash of cream, and whisk. Continue this process until you’ve added all the cream. Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Add a single layer of wafers to the bottom of the loaf pan. Top with a layer of whipped cream. Add a single layer of bananas, then top with a layer of whipped cream. Repeat this until you’ve used all the cream, making sure to end with a layer of cream.

Fold the overhanging plastic over the cake. If it doesn’t completely cover the surface, add more plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 36.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/3 cup powdered sugar

8-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 premade graham cracker crust

6 ounces fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly, melted and cooled

In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add lemon juice and powdered sugar, and mix to combine. Gradually add whipped topping. Mix to combine, being cautious not to overmix. Spread mixture into prepared crust.

Add strawberries to a medium bowl. Pour cooled but still liquid strawberry jam or jelly over strawberries, and toss them to coat. Add strawberries to the top of the pie.

Refrigerate for at least four hours to allow pie to set. Serve chilled. Store tightly covered in refrigerator for up to five days.

Rocky Road Rice Krispies Treats

2 10-ounce packages miniature marshmallows, divided

3 tablespoons canola oil

5 cups Rice Krispies

5 whole graham crackers, crumbled

11/4 cups salted, roasted almonds, chopped and divided

2 111/2-ounce packages semisweet chocolate chunks, divided

In a microwave on low power, melt one package of marshmallows in oil. Stir until smooth. Stir in cereal, graham crackers, 1 cup almonds and 1 cup chocolate chunks.

Using waxed paper or a lightly greased spatula, press mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Cool to room temperature.

Melt one package chocolate chunks in microwave. Spread over the top of the pan of treats. Sprinkle with remaining marshmallows, almonds and chocolate chunks.

Cut into bars before serving.

Crafts/Hobbies

My sister, Bonnie, is 78 and has a disability. She started putting doll parts together and making unusual dolls. She ran out of parts. Her last one had a fish head. Please send any unwanted doll parts to Bonnie Speer, P.O. Box 235, Johannesburg, CA 93528-0235.

Margie Mejica Susanville, California

ISO donations of used bottles of perfume and cologne for a project. Bottles needed from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Any condition. Empty or half-full bottles, bottles with missing caps and bottles with broken spray mechanisms are all OK. Thank you.

Sheri Chitwood

P.O. Box 988 Tillamook, OR 97141

I run a monthly club for creating zines (small, do-it-yourself magazines) at Columbia Gorge Community College. At Zine Club, we use a variety of supplies, but stickers and rubber stamps are the most popular. I’m always on the lookout for more, and if you have extras lying around, I would love to put them with our zine supplies so folks can use them for crafting. Thanks, Danny.

Zine Club at CGCC Library

400 E. Scenic Drive

The Dalles, OR 97058

The Pistol River Friendship Club needs material donations. We use donated fabric—preferably 100% cotton—to handcraft items such as potholders and aprons. These creations are sold to support our community through scholarships for local students and other community projects. Your donation helps us keep giving back. If you’d like to contribute fabric or supplies, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We can provide a phone number for more information or for drop-off.

PRFC Volunteers

24252 Carpenterville Road Gold Beach, OR 97444 pistolriverfriendship@gmail.com

Milestones

My dad, Jim Rider, will be 100 years young this month. Funny, sweet and the very best man I’ve ever known. With so many interests, he still takes time to show interest in others. He is helpful and generous to a fault. Though his flying days are long gone, golfing set aside and the Priest Lake fishing trips have turned into admiring the view from our little piece of heaven, there is still a lot of laughter and stories to tell. Having outlived most of his friends and some family, I know he would appreciate any birthday wishes that came his way. Please send them to Jim Rider c/o Joni Cassell, P.O. Box 190, Chattaroy, WA 99003.

Joni Cassell Chattaroy, Washington

Odds

I am hoping to reach anyone who has any pictures, history or information on the old Shoestring School off upper Scotts Valley Road in Yoncalla. The only information I’ve been able to locate is the historical marker across from our driveway. In the historical schools listing pictures, etc., the historical marker is listed, “no pictures available.” My husband’s family has owned the property since the early ’60s, and he purchased it from them. What little was left of a piece of the structure succumbed to the elements over time. If you have anything or know anyone who may have information, please contact me. It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Ange Norris

6939 Scotts Valley Road Yoncalla, OR 97499 outbackange86@gmail.com

Thanks

Thank you to the many contributors who sent photography for my legacy project. I received hundreds of photos to work with, and as I look at them, I thank each participant and say aloud “You are my family now.” From the panoramic mail trucks from the 1920s to the amazing portraits, they are all priceless in black and white.

NJ Bittick Susanville, California

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SpiritualityMee

“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”

— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals

In a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them.

Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony.

This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of only

930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-finished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free!

miss your chance to own this exclusive tribute to timeless elegance and meaningful symbolism.

Necklace Specifications:

Watch the waves from one of the Lower 48 states’ farthest reaches at Washington’s

Cape Flattery

What Is It?

Travel through the peaks and forests of Olympic National Park to reach Cape Flattery, the northwestern tip of the contiguous United States. Watch the Pacific Ocean crash into the cliffs and caves. On clear days, you may even see Canadian mountains in the distance.

Why Flattery?

The cape was given its English name by Capt. James Cook in 1778. While exploring the area, the British explorer thought he would find a bay there. When he did not, he journaled that the cape “flattered (him) with the hopes of finding a harbor.” People already lived in the area when Cook visited—and they still do. The cape is in the Makah Reservation, and visitors need to buy a Makah Recreation Permit.

What You’ll See

After driving along the Olympic Peninsula, visitors need to take an easy 0.75-mile hike to reach the cape’s viewpoints. The hike is largely an earthen trail, with handrails in some sloping sections. The trail has three main viewpoints, offering views into the caves along the shore and out toward Tatoosh Island and its lighthouse.

More Nearby

After visiting the cape, travel down the west side of the Olympic Peninsula and visit the Hoh Rain Forest, which receives almost 12 feet of precipitation each year. The forest is known for its Sitka spruce, red cedar, bigleaf maple and Douglas fir. Travel farther to see Mount Olympus and other peaks in the Olympic Mountains.

More Information

For details about Cape Flattery, the Makah Reservation and necessary permits, visit makah.com.

For more on offerings in Olympic National Park, call 360-565-3130 or go to nps.gov/olym.

THIS is a Knife!

Inthe blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart.

Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.”

Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle.

Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, Stauer pocket binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knives for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under.

Your Insider Offer Code: DUK458-04 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Down Under Bowie Knife $249* Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150

Stauer® Pocket Binoculars -a $99 valuewith purchase of Down Under Knife

BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary .

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives



“This knife is beautiful!”

— J., La Crescent, MN 

“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”

— H., Arvada, CO

• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. DUK458-04 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com *Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

NIKON D700

180mm lens

ISO: 200 f/5.6 at 1/1000

Story and photo by Dave LaBelle

Relationships can be complicated, especially among siblings. While some siblings are inseparable—through shared rooms, vehicles or clothing—others never bond or they drift apart as they grow.

The second of Charles and Jeanetta LaBelle’s children, I have four siblings—two brothers and two sisters—and each relationship is different, changing and evolving through the years.

While every relationship is unique because no two humans are exactly alike, relationships can grow richer with age when we value them and are willing to nourish them.

Sometimes the distance of living in different states or countries makes it tough to maintain close relationships. My youngest sister and brother have stayed in California, while my older sister, middle brother and I have lived in other states for much of our lives. It has been at least 10 years since we’ve been together.

At other times, differing religious or political beliefs and lifestyles become excuses not to nourish sibling relationships.

However, as the years race past and we realize we have less time on this earth, sibling relationships may become more precious. Forgiveness replaces anger, love replaces tolerance, and the sibling who might have been annoying or even harmful becomes a treasured friend.

Throughout my journalistic career, I have witnessed—usually at funerals—siblings come together as strangers, often wishing they had made a better effort to know a brother or sister. n

Bound Love By

While on assignment, I noticed the tender relationship shared by these two brothers, which stirred me to examine the relationships with my own siblings and ask, “What kind of brother am I?”

Reader Challenge

This can be a self-portrait of you and your sibling, or it can be a photograph of other siblings together. Maybe even twins? I have a friend, a twin, who also married a twin. Her husband and brother-in-law are close friends and are about as much alike as two individuals can be. Ironically, both recently underwent similar knee surgeries on the same leg.

If you feel uncomfortable asking to photograph a sibling, blame it on me. Tell them this is an important assignment from a photography teacher, and you need a photo for posterity. You can also use this assignment as an excuse to meet with a sibling. In years to come, family members may be thankful you did.

Email your best image—just one—with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.

Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writing, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.

Seafood Cookbook

Barbecue Halibut Oriental, Crab Enchiladas, Easy Salmon Quiche, Dilled Salmon Fettuccine, Clam Chowder and Salmon Oyster Dip are among the recipes featured in this book from our 1993 contest. The 8½-by-11-inch indexed book is $8 (plus $3 shipping for any size order).

TO ORDER BY MAIL:

Submit payment with cookbook title, your name, address and number of cookbooks wanted to: Ruralite Cookbooks P.O. Box 1306 North Plains, OR 97133

TO PAY BY PHONE: Call 503-357-2105 for credit card payments with Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express.

TO ORDER ONLINE: Visit www.ruralite.com.

Please allow two to three weeks for delivery.

Perfect for Potlucks

With more than 200 recipes, this cookbook offers many options for potlucks, family reunions or picnics planned this summer! An added bonus in the back are the recipes from a previous barbecue recipe contest. “Perfect for a Potluck” is an 8½-by-11-inch indexed cookbook for only $10, plus $3 shipping for any size order.

To order by mail:

Submit proper payment with your name, address and the number of cookbooks wanted to Ruralite Cookbooks, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133.

To order by phone: Call 503-357-2105 to pay with Visa, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express.

To order online: Visit www.ruralite.com.

Please allow two to three weeks for delivery.

Got a Story Idea? We Want to Hear It.

Ruralite is a magazine about the people, places and moments that make the region home, and nobody knows those stories better than you. Whether it’s a hidden gem in your community, a local hero worth celebrating or an organization doing great work in your area—we’re listening.

Scan the QR code or visit the link to submit your story idea. Our editors read every submission. Thanks for reading.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera or visit tinyurl.com/SendStoryIdeas.

A Launchpad for the Future

For Saffron Campbell, a summer internship at Benton REA was about more than gaining work experience—it was an opportunity to serve her local community while building skills that will support her future career.

A third-year aerospace engineering student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Saffron came to Benton REA eager to learn how an electric cooperative serves its members. What she discovered was a workplace where interns are trusted with meaningful responsibilities and are encouraged to grow alongside experienced employees.

“I expected to work on projects separate from the rest of the team,” she says. “Instead, I was trusted with work that integrated me into the groups of regular, full-time employees. It made me feel that my contributions were valued and that I was making a meaningful impact.”

As Benton REA looks toward the future, experiences like Saffron's are helping shape a larger vision for workforce development. In 2027, the cooperative plans to expand its internship program by offering two positions: an engineering intern and a member experience intern.

These opportunities represent the first step toward building a broader, year-round internship program that connects students with careers in the electric industry.

The member experience intern will gain firsthand experience supporting members, working across multiple departments and learning day-to-day operations. The engineering intern will work alongside engineering and operations staff, contributing to projects while gaining insight into the planning and infrastructure required to deliver safe, reliable electricity.

As the utility industry evolves, Benton REA recognizes the importance of preparing the next generation of skilled professionals. By investing in internships today, the cooperative hopes to introduce students to the careers available close to home while helping them build practical skills to strengthen their resumes.

For Saffron, one of the greatest lessons was learning to communicate with confidence while balancing multiple responsibilities. She also developed strong time management and organizational skills and mastered assisting members in person and over the phone.

Her favorite memory came from helping

a member transfer electric service during a stressful move.

“She told me calling Benton REA was the easiest part of her move because everyone was so kind and helpful,” Saffron says. “Knowing I made a difficult time a little easier is something I'll always remember.”

Saffron has big plans for her future. She is pursuing a career testing spacecraft and satellites. She says the communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills she developed at Benton REA will benefit her wherever her career takes her.

“I believe internships are one of the best opportunities for students to grow both personally and professionally,” she says. “The skills I developed here are transferable to any career.”

As Benton REA continues developing its internship program, the cooperative welcomes opportunities to collaborate with local schools, colleges, workforce organizations and community partners. Together, these partnerships can help prepare students for rewarding careers while strengthening the future workforce that will continue powering our communities for years to come. n

Saffron is a third year undergraduate student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University majoring in aerospace engineering and minoring in applied mathematics. When she was little, she read a book on the stories behind famous constellations that made her want to contribute to the exploration of space.

Recently she was an exchange student for a semester at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea. After graduating she plans on joining a space company to test spacecraft or satellites once they have been assembled. She has a very fat cat named Voldemort. Her family likes to name pets based on Harry Potter characters. Saffron loves to read and knit and is learning to crochet.

MARKETPLACE

Agriculture

Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (39 cents/sqft.). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width and length. Truck tarps and more. High puncture and tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 45 years in business. btlliners.com; 541-447-0712. 0427

Antiques and Collectibles

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs. CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117; send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0826

WC Collectibles. We buy comic books. Local to Inland Northwest. Willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 0926

Buying antiques and collectibles: advertising signs, porcelain signs, gas pumps, beer signs, antique toys, cast-iron coin banks, neon signs and more. Jason, 503-310-3321 or tjabaughman@yahoo.com. 0926

Old baseball cards. Pay in cash, via PayPal or Venmo. Will pay for shipping to Sutherlin, OR. budandvicky@msn.com. Call or text, 541-430-6900.

Automotive

2013 60th anniversary BB Corvette. Roadster, completely original. 1966 Corvette coupe, BB. Both for $150K. Carl, 509-420-6200. 0826

Boats

18-ft. handmade cedar canoe. Photos available. $2K, firm. Excellent condition. Contact Jim, jimdeArrieTa@gmail.com or 775-721-0390. 1026

1946 Old Town OTCA 18-ft. wood and canvas canoe. Fully restored. Oars included. $2.5K, OBO. 541-366-9755. 0826

Books, Magazines, Videos

Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0826

Community Events

Annual membership print “Cosmic Tilt” by Megan Hurley available. Join as a member at artcentereast.org or at Art Center East in La Grande, OR. 0826

Quick, Affordable: How to Place an Ad

„ Ads 25 words or fewer are $35 a month. An ad of up to 35 words is $50 a month. Contact information is included in the word count. Phone numbers and emails count as one word.

„ Longer ads may be placed. Contact 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop for pricing.

„ Ads are for customers of member co-ops, public utility districts and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire about pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop.

„ Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.

„ Closing deadlines (in our office): October issue—Aug. 31

„ If submitting ad by mail, send appropriate payment with your name, address, email, phone number and the name of the electric utility that provides your magazine to: Marketplace, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133. Make check or money order payable to Ruralite.

„ We accept credit card payments for ads submitted to info@pioneer.coop. Call 503-357-2105 to pay by credit card. Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.

Education

Long Creek Virtual Learning Acellus Academy. Free in OR, online, accredited, K-12 education. Contact Long Creek School for information and to sign up. longcreekschool.com; 541-508-9164. 1226

Home and Hearth

Need an Elna Supermatic two-tone dark green and cream sewing machine for my seamstress girlfriend. Her heart is set on this model and color. smokeidaho@protonmail.com. 0826

Wondering if someone in the Tri-Cities, WA, area with walking foot or longarm would free-motion or follow stencil for a tight stipple design on 40x18” cotton with sandwiched batting. Reply with estimate. gafjm1058@yahoo.com. 0826

Miscellaneous

Attention, landowners. Grants available now. Wildland fire fuel reduction service. Steep ground, remote, rocky, small lot, big acreage … no problem. Blue Mountain Defensible Space LLC. Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com or 509-399-3473; bluemountainbrush.com. 1126

Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906; highdesertmemorials.com. 0826

Vintage white powder-coated cast-iron bathtub with decorative lion paw gold-plated feet. 60x30”. Gently sloped back, curved rim. Excellent condition. $1.5K. 541-646-1073. 0926

Pets

Havanese puppies in Rainier, OR. Hypoallergenic, great for all ages. Raised by our family as quality pets for you. www.happeninhavanese.com; Rebecca, 503-728-6241. 0926

Pools/Spas

Stay warm and healthy this winter. Custom outdoor saunas built and delivered to you from La Grande, OR. saunahublg.com; 541-805-1318. 0826

2010 Artesian Swim Spa for sale. 7x4’. Been inside all the time; excellent condition. $5K. 541-954-3884. 0826

Real Estate

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm & recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: Deschutes Canyon mountain views, 118 acres, riverfront. $11.9M. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land and Wildlife brokerage. 0826

Commercial opportunity located in John Day. Currently operating as a car wash, detail and tire shop. $250K. 4 Rivers Realty, Inc., 541-987-2363 or ddwr@ortelco.net. 0826

CUP approved March 21, 2025. Nonfarm dwelling. ODOT driveway approach construction application permit #100223. Fremont Highway 31, photos. Silver Lake rural fire protection district. Surveyed, photographs, 4.47 acres, tax lot 19487. Backs BLM. 503-366-4424.

Local cash buyer for all real estate and homes. Any condition or situation. No agents, no repairs, no waiting. Ready with serious offers. AJ, 509-530-1182. 1126

Snowbird special. Own instead of renting. ¼-acre developed level lot with paved frontage in established subdivision that borders BLM in Salome, AZ. All utilities ready for RV hookup. $55K. Call or text, 541-806-5419. 0826

40 minutes from Las Vegas, NV. 1.8-acre corner lot. Well and septic; 3 bd., 2 ba., 2-car garage. Bonus room/man cave. 1,650 sqft. 3 sheds. $250K. 702-296-2289; a68amx@yahoo.com.

AK 1-acre lot. 1 block from North Pole airport, old-car lovers dream. Burned house, water and electric available. $50K. 541-515-5645. 0826

20 acres for sale in Elko County, NV. 10 miles east of Montello. Off of Highway 833. Includes 26-ft. camp trailer, 20-ft. Conex, welder, generator. $15K. geopup58@gmail.com. 0826

Private 20-acre retreat with mature timber, a custom 2019 home, guest quarters, garage, orchard and view. Price reduced to $990K. Bordering timberland, this OR Coast property offers comfort, privacy and country living. Call 541-961-1889. 0826

Recreational Rentals

Ocean view Maui vacation rental. For the months of May-Oct. $210/now $185. One-time cleaning $150, 2 TVs, king-size bed, queen-size sofa bed. Beach chairs and umbrellas. Great view. 503-812-6689. 0826

Sunshine and sand—book your summer dreams at WaveCatcher for 2026. Oceanfront cottage with direct beach access, on the spectacular Central OR Coast. Sleeps 6. Pet-friendly. All house amenities. Winter closure Nov.-March. Reservations, information: text 541-740-2846; email relax@wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. 0826

Two beautiful Airbnbs overlooking the Clearwater River in Lenore, ID. Each are $1.25K per month, which includes Dish, Wi-Fi, electric, water and free eggs from our chickens. www.bearcountrygetaways.com.

Services

Blue Mountain Defensible Space LLC. Wildfire Fuel Reduction: clearing brush, thinning trees, animal habitat enhancement. Expert service. Grant money available: OR, WA, ID. Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com; 509-399-3473; bluemountainbrush.com. 1126

Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com; 541-388-7605; 541-410-6945. License #245760, bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 1226

Mel’s Furniture Restoration. Repair, rebuild and restore. Rescuing family heirlooms. Serving OR from Bend since 1975. Frank, mfrankspiecker@gmail.com or 541-382-8316.

Old West Coffins. Simple, dignified, traditional. Pine coffins, made-to-measure in the USA. Live the cowboy way … leave the cowboy way. oldwestcoffins.com. 530-640-1940. 0826

Want to Buy

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs. CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117; send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0826

Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 45 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 1026

Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009 or 971-666-0659. 0826

Building Community Connections

Benton REA and the West Richland Chamber of Commerce join forces to build businesses and a strong community

One of the guiding principles of electric cooperatives is the seventh Cooperative Principle: Concern for Community. It reminds us that cooperatives work for the sustainable development of the communities they serve. At Benton REA, that principle is put into action through partnerships with local organizations.

One of those partnerships is with the West Richland Chamber of Commerce. Their growing membership brings businesses, community leaders and neighbors together to strengthen the local economy and create opportunities for West Richland.

For the Chamber, Benton REA has become much more than an electric utility.

“Benton REA has consistently demonstrated they are more than a utility provider—they are a true community partner,” says Dave Fetto, president of the West Richland Chamber of

Commerce Board of Directors. “Their support has enabled the Chamber to grow our programs, host larger and more successful events and provide greater value to our members.”

Beyond chamber membership, Benton REA shares the commitment of investing in West Richland's future.

“Having an organization with Benton REA's reputation and community-first mindset standing alongside us sends a powerful message that West Richland is a place where businesses, nonprofits and residents work together to create a flourishing community.”

Through sponsorships, volunteer involvement and leadership participation, the cooperative has helped the Chamber expand its reach and impact. Beginning this summer, all Chamber luncheons will be held at Benton REA's new West Richland Complex providing a welcoming space where local business leaders can connect.

The partnership comes when the Chamber is experiencing remarkable momentum. With nearly 200 active members, attendance at monthly meetings and events continues to rise.

The Chamber also hosts some of West Richland's signature events, including the Community Easter Egg Hunt, Wednesdays in West, Community Night Out with the West Richland Police Department and the officially designated Veterans Day Parade for Southeast Washington. These events bring people from all around

at

learn from

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Chamber

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and strengthen

our region which supports the local economy.

Ron Mitchell, Benton REA's electrical advisor, serves on the West Richland Chamber Board of Directors, where he helps strategize for the future and plan programs and events.

One event that holds special meaning for Ron is the West Richland Veterans Day Parade, an annual tradition that Benton REA proudly sponsors. Working alongside fellow board members, volunteers and veterans organizations, Ron helps organize the event that honors the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans and brings thousands of people together.

“Serving on the Chamber board has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally,” Ron says. “It gives me the opportunity to work with passionate community leaders. Whether we're planning lunches, programs for local businesses or helping organize the Veterans Day Parade, we're building meaningful relationships. I'm proud that Benton REA supports these efforts and encourages employees to get involved and make a difference.”

For Benton REA, investing in the community is a natural extension of its mission to serve members beyond delivering reliable electricity.

“As a member-owned cooperative, our responsibility extends beyond the electric lines we maintain,” says Benton REA CEO Ryan Redmond. “When our local businesses succeed and our communities are vibrant our members benefit. Supporting organizations like the West Richland Chamber is one way we invest in the long-term strength and vitality of the communities we are privileged to serve.”

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, Benton REA understands that strong connections don't happen by accident. They are built through a shared commitment to improving the places we call home.

Together, Benton REA and the West Richland Chamber of Commerce demonstrate the power of partnership. n

If you are a business owner or want to be more involved in West Richland's business community join the West Richland Chamber of Commerce for lunch.

The West Richland Chamber of Commerce meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Benton REA's new West Richland Complex at 2121 Cooperative Way, southeast of the police department.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for networking and the presentation begins at noon. Meetings conclude at 1 p.m.

For more information about the West Richland Chamber of Commerce go to westrichlandchamber.org or email info@westrichlandchamber.org.