Polk County Itemizer-Observer

Quick numbers about Central High School

Sharing a native tradition

GRAND RONDE -- A hint of a breeze started to kick up over the Uyxat Powwow Grounds Friday, Aug. 20, as Grand Ronde Tribal member Deitz Peters prepared for the first grand entry of Grand Ronde's Annual Contest Powwow.

Things heat up at Polk county Fair

RICKREALL -- The swine barn at the Polk County Fairgrounds is usually a hectic place this time of year, filled rafter to rafter with the grunts and squeals of hyperactive pigs.

No obstacle too big for these goats

RICKREALL -- The saying "as stubborn as a goat" is a cliche' for a reason, as several youngsters learned Friday, Aug. 13, during the Polk County Fair's annual goat obstacle course competition.

Got Ink?

INDEPENDENCE -- There's a racket emanating from the construction happening down the block from Kevin Hamlin's tattoo studio in Independence. Heavy metal music blares from speakers inside.

A Hidden Treasure at the Luckiamute State Natural Area

BUENA VISTA -- Gail Oberst said she's grown fond of the sights and sounds contained within the Luckiamute State Natural Area (LSNA) during hikes there.

Polo Ridge: Where horses reign

MONMOUTH -- Set atop a picturesque hillside dotted with dozens of quarter horse mares and frolicking yearlings, it's hard not to notice Polo Ridge Farms just south of Monmouth.

The Bear Necessities

DALLAS -- Chain saws aren't known for being delicate. In Dallas resident Danny Hartman's hands, however, the noisy piece of equipment can create a work of art.

Hello, Dolly!

FALLS CITY -- Carrol Stine's crocheted doll outfits and the dolls they adorn don't get out much.

Cafe 22's family recipe

WEST SALEM -- It started off simple, Clyde Aspinwall says. When he and wife, Cindy, took over the fruit stand his father ran before him off Highway 22 west of Salem in 1997, the couple decided they could enhance their customers' experience by offering fresh strawberry shortcake.