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About Hermiston herald. (Hermiston, Or.) 1994-current | View Entire Issue (Aug. 30, 2017)
A4 • HERMISTONHERALD.COM Center for the Arts hosts book launch for Hermiston author By TAMMY MALGESINI COMMUNITY EDITOR Combining story- telling and art, a book launch event for Hermis- ton author Karen Spears Zacharias’ latest novel also includes artist Susie Stuvland. Inspired: How Art In- fluences Storytelling is Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Pendleton Center for the Arts, 214 N. Main St. The event is free and open to the public. Copies of “Christian Bend” will be available for purchase. Described as “a con- temporary murder sto- ry, which resonates with a vintage love of place while exploring the changing landscape of drugs, addiction and vi- olence,” it’s Zacharias’ third book in the Appala- chian series. “Mother of Rain” (2013) and “Bur- dy” (2015), also were published by Mercer University Press. The first book in the series garnered Zacharias a Weatherford Award for Best in Appalachian Fic- tion. The 2013 novel also was adapted as a stage play by Paul Pierce, opening during the 2015-2016 season at the Springer Opera House in Columbus, Georgia. With Southern roots — Zacharias graduat- ed from Columbus High School in Georgia — the author utilizes Appala- CONTRIBUTED BOOK COVER Hermiston author Karen Zacharias is featured in a book launch event Wednesday, Aug. 30 at Pendleton Center for the Arts. “Christian Bend,” published by Mercer University Press, is the author’s third novel in an Appalachian series. Zacharias chia dialect in the novel series. After tonight’s event, Zacharias is head- ed to Georgia, where she will embark on a two- month book tour and oth- er related events in the Southern states. Growing up in a mil- itary family, her father was killed in action in 1966. Zacharias said that was a catalyst for her eventual career in jour- nalism. She has worked in newspapers across the country, including stints at the East Oregonian and the Tri-City Herald. Also, she has written eight books, including “Karly Sheehan: True Crime Story Behind Kar- ly’s Law.” At the urging of true crime writer Ann Rule, Zacharias wrote the book about the 2005 death of the young girl at the hands of her mother’s boyfriend. In addition to an investigative report- er’s approach, Zacharias had personal connec- tions to the story. Kar- ly’s mother, Sarah Brill, lived with Zacharias and her husband for a short time. The case led to leg- islative mandates that are designed to further pro- tect children suspected of being victims of child abuse. In addition to writing, Zacharias enjoys lead- ing workshops. She has spoken at the Library of Congress and has ap- peared on “Good Morn- ing America.” For more about Zach- arias and her books, visit www.karenzach.com. After Harvest party features dinner, music in Heppner With the hard work of harvest just on the horizon, the community is invited to help celebrate during an upcoming event in Hep- pner. The After Harvest party is Saturday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m. at the Heppner Elks Lodge, 142 N. Main St. The gathering starts with a no-host social time, fol- lowed by a steak dinner at 6:30 p.m. Live music be- gins at 8 p.m. The cost is WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2017 COMMUNITY $15 per person. The event also serves as a fun way to bring the community together and to give thanks to those who work to make Eastern Oregon a better place, said Justin Hoeft, Elks exalted ruler. “This includes all indi- viduals who volunteer, or- ganizations that contribute to this effort, businesses that are here for us and struggle to bring the com- munity the necessities of life,” he said. In addition, Hoeft said the event provides an op- portunity to introduce people to the services and activities of the Elks. Pro- spective members, he said, are invited to learn more about the organization and pick up an application. For more information, contact Hoeft at 541-379- 1530 or jc_hoeft@hot- mail.com. IN BRIEF Kayak trip features moonlight fun A unique opportunity to enjoy the Columbia River via kayak as the sun sets is being coordinated by Hermiston Parks & Recre- ation. The Harvest Moonlight Paddle is Friday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Hat Rock State Park. Participants will meet at the main boat ramp parking lot. After- wards, a bonfire will fea- ture harvest themed treats. The cost is $30 for Hermiston residents or $38 for non-residents. In addi- tion, there is a $10 kayak rental, if needed. The ac- tivity is open to ages 14 and up (youths must be accompanied by an adult). Those planning to attend need to register by Friday, Sept. 1. Sponsored by Hat Rock State Park and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, paddlers will enjoy an eve- ning along the river under the enchanting night sky. Participants are encour- aged to bring a headlamp and glow sticks. For more information, visit www.hermistonrecre- ation.com. To register, call 541-667-5018 or stop by the recreation office, 180 N.E. Second St., Hermis- ton. East Moraine work party seeks volunteers A work party to help re- store habitat for mule deer, elk and other animals is planned on the East Mo- raine at Wallowa Lake. The public is invited to assist with removal of barbed-wire fencing and other tasks to help make the landscape more acces- sible for animals who live and roam in the area. Coordinated by the Wal- lowa Land Trust, the Habi- tat Restoration on the East Moraine is Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. To RSVP and for directions to the gathering place, contact info@wallowalandtrust. org or 541-426-2042. Nazarene church collects school supplies Spiral notebooks, pen- cils, paper and other school supplies are being collected by the Hermiston Church of the Nazarene. The congregation ad- opted West Park Elemen- tary School and invites others to donate supplies. The final collection date is Sunday. The items will be presented to the school counselor, who will dis- tribute supplies to students who need them. Items can be dropped off at the church, 1520 W. Orchard Ave. For more information, call 541-567- 3677. Hermiston church shares vision The Hermiston Assem- bly of God Church has designated September as Vision Month. The focus is to dream bigger, believe in greater things and to love people even more. The congrega- tion and its leaders invite the public to join them as they launch into a se- ries called #ThereIsMore! Each Sunday features something special and fun: • Sept. 3: Back To School Sunday provides free donuts in the lobby. • Sept. 10: Taco Truck Sunday offers taco truck food available in the yard after the service • Sept. 17: NextGen Sunday features a service highlighting Elevate Kids & Tribe Youth • Sept. 24: I Love My City, a community out- reach event The services begin at 10:30 a.m. at 730 E. Hurl- burt Ave., Hermiston. For more information, call 541-567-5831 or visit www.facebook.com/herm- istonassembly. Library encourages kids to turn pages With school back in ses- sion, the Hermiston Pub- lic Library is encouraging children to increase their reading. The Children’s Back to School Reading Challenge runs Sept. 4-30. Kids up to second grade are asked to read or have someone read to them 12 books. Third through fifth graders are challenged to read four books during the month. Those accepting the challenge should pick up a reading sheet at the library and return it by the end of the promotion for a chance to win prizes. For more information, call 541-567-2882 or stop by the library at 235 E. Gladys Ave., Hermiston. Portland group offers easy-going musical vibe A group of musicians with Will West leading the crew create a signature blend of modern folk, blue- grass, pop and groove ele- ments — some have called it psychedelic bluegrass, folk and groove fusion. Whatever you call it, Eastern Oregon audiences will have an opportunity to experience Will West & The Friendly Strangers. The Portland-based group will perform a free all-ag- es show Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at Great Pacific Wine & Coffee Co., 401 S. Main St., Pendleton. Known for their easy-going vibes and fun audience participation, each performance offers a unique show with spe- cial guests and various instrument combinations — from cello & mandolin to trumpet and harmonica, throwing in some funky percussion system featur- ing xylophone, typewriter and more. For more information, visit www.willwestmusic. com. Tai Chi provides fun, improved health Older adults interested in having fun while reduc- ing the risk of falling are invited to register for a free class in Hermiston. A 24-class series, Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance starts Monday, Sept. 25 from 9-9:45 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Wellness Center, 610 N.W. 11th St. The popular health promotion program im- proves balance, increases flexibility and strengthens core muscles. No experience is re- quired to participate. In addition, the gentle move- ments can be performed while standing or seated. With enrollment capped at 15 participants, those interested in attending should register as soon as possible. For more infor- mation, call Lynda Carra- her at 541-922-4203. Save BIG During Our NAPAGOLD Filter Sale TM August 28 - September 3, 2017 HERMISTON AUTO PARTS 200 S. 1ST PL #2, HERMISTON, OR 97838 • 541-567-5569 Boardman Auto Parts - 541-481-6200 Umatilla Auto Parts - 541-922-5556 napafilters.com Discretion and Comfort Kids Club Back To School SUMMER LUAU! that’s ready-to-wear. Silk from Signia ™ Held at Hermiston Christian Center 1825 W. Highland Ave, Hermiston Bouncy House Water & Outside Games Prizes, Hot Dogs, Chips and More! 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