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SEPTEMBER 22–29, 2021
SOUND CHECK
WHAT’S PLAYING AROUND
THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Oktoberfest event coming to the Ison House
Enjoy ‘beer, brats
and blues’ Sept. 25
By Lisa Britton
Go! Magazine
B
AKER CITY — Celebrate Oktoberfest this
weekend with food, drinks and music at the
Ison House Bed & Brew, 1790 Washington Ave.
“Beer, brats and blues,” said Twila Lavery, co-
owner of the Ison House.
The event is Saturday, Sept. 25. Doors open
at 4 p.m., and at 7 p.m. the duo StrumBroads
featuring Sonny Hess and Kathryn Grimm take
the stage.
This event is for ages 21 and older. There is no
cover charge. Food and beverages will be avail-
able to purchase.
ABOUT THE BAND
Sonny Hess/Contributed photo
StrumBroads, the duo of Kathryn Grimm, left, and Sonny Hess, will play during
an Oktoberfest celebration Sept. 25 at the Ison House in Baker City.
Hess and Grimm both have their own musi-
cal endeavors. Hess leads the Sonny Hess Band
(R&B/blues) and the all-female revue NW Women
Rhythm & Blues. Grimm plays in that band, plus
leads The Blue Toolz.
The duo released an album titled “Smoke” in
December 2020. The title track, co-written by
Hess and Grimm, “was created during the wildfires
of 2020 as an expression of hope.” For informa-
tion about the album, visit www.strumbroads.com.
11am-8pm Tuesday-Saturday
Both women play lead guitar. During a show,
Hess said sometimes they take turns playing, while
the other plays rhythm.
“Sometimes we riff back and forth — like a con-
versation,” Hess said. “And sometimes we play at
the same time and rock out.”
This is the first time they’ve played a show in
Baker City.
OCTOBER EVENTS
Looking ahead, Lavery is planning to offer a fall
paint party in October, but has not yet set the date.
It will be for ages 13 and older, and cost $35 per
person.
On Saturday, Oct. 9, the Ison House will hold
its inaugural chili cookoff. Lavery said she needs
at least three entries — chili cooks interested in
entering are asked to sign up ahead of time by
emailing her at isonhousepub@gmail.com or calling
503-894-4075. Starting at 2 p.m. that day, patrons
can taste the entered chili recipes and vote on the
winner. The event will go until about 4 p.m.
To finish out the month, Ison House will host a
Halloween Bash on Saturday, Oct. 30. Gates will
open at 6 p.m., and the local band Trailer Hitch will
take the stage at 7 p.m. There will be a costume
contest at 9 p.m. This is a 21 and older event. There
is no cover charge.
Lavery said she’s planning more events for the
winter months — stay updated by checking Face-
book and www.theisonhouse.com.