Trip Report

We had planned that this first bus trip in 2008 in the local area would be on a nice Spring day, but on a cold wintry morning, we departed Shopko to view some bird life around the Fern Ridge Wildlife reservoir. Then on to OUR DAILY BREAD in Veneta for delicious pastry and coffee.

Warmed and refreshed, we went south on the Territorial Road through Lorane, now enjoying sunshine and fresh snow in the forest trees. At the Village Green, Cindee Eichengreen, Director of Gardens, led us on a tour of the gardens surrounding this renovated resort. Here are actually thousands of plant species and is a work in progress toward a magnificent showplace.

Following an excellent buffet lunch, Lexie Simpson, in pioneer costume, joined us for a guided tour of her home-town. We saw two covered bridges, historic homes and churches, the new hospital, also the new High School complex, and the highlights were the close-up inspections of the many murals. At the Chambers Bridge, Lexie in a moment of nostalgia, confessed this was the site of her first kiss. hnmm!

Stops included the relocated Gold Mining Museum, which shares space with the local Historical Society. Several volunteers, also in pioneer attire, described the displays and were most helpful.

We also visited the Senior Community Center, a very nice facility. Finally to the Territorial Seed Co., where many seeds are grown, packaged and distributed world wide.

We learned how the Bohemia Mining Country impacted this community. Civic Spirit has blended these historic roots into a modern progressive town.

Thanks to Janet Speelman for handling the sign-ups, and thanks to veteran driver, John Bunker, who handled the long bus in narrow streets, and returned at 5 p.m. sharp. Special thanks and appreciation to Mary Ellen West, who arranged another great trip.

Riders were: Ethel Allen, Alice Anderson, Don Baldwin, Ewart Baldwin, Neil Baldwin, Rosemary Baldwin, Pat Bayles, Louise Behnke, Joyce Brooker, Barbara Chinn, Rachele Fiszman, Donna Halker, Dora Harris, Robert Hart, Ray Jensen, Rosella Jones, John McManigal, Lenore McManigal, Barbara Payne, Don Payne, Virginia Prouty, Carolyn Rayborn Liz Reanier, Nola Shurtleff, Julia Snell, Janet Speelman, Viola Stults, Mary Ellen West (leader), Christy White and Vera Woolley.