made in the methow 2015

A supplement to the Methow Valley News Sponsored by Methow Made, a program of TwispWorks

IN THEMade

MethowNEW FOR 2015

thow

Food & Drink Make a marvelous

Methow Meal

Home & health Treat yourself to

affordable luxury

Arts & crafts Adorn your world

with creativity

FREE T O GOOD HOMEMethow

Made

2 • 2015 Made in the Methow •

FOUR years ago, when we published the fi rst Made in the Methow magazine, our intent was to showcase the creativity, energy and passion of valley residents who produce an incredible variety of things you can take home to remember

us by. Each year, we face the same dilemma in putting the magazine together: how to adequately convey that variety, and spotlight some of those who make it happen.

But part of the Methow Valley experience is discovering for yourself what inspires our local producers. Fresh vegetables, fruit and custom meats, coffee, beer, wine, cider, clothing, art, crafts, furnishings, knives, bikes, yarn, fabrics, personal care products — the list goes on and on, and the quality is remarkable. You’ll fi nd them at farmers markets, galleries, studios, retail outlets and even production facilities throughout the valley.

Look for the Methow Made displays in many local stores. Methow Made is a marketing and branding program developed by TwispWorks, the small-business development campus in Twisp that is also home to many local artists. Made in the Methow is produced in partnership with TwispWorks to give broad exposure to Methow Valley products. Within this publication, you’ll fi nd a useful insert produced by TwispWorks that will help you navigate the possibilities from one end of the valley to the other.

You can also peruse our Made in the Methow business directory, which provides basic details about our advertisers, most of whom also offer websites with more information about products and how to order them.

Made in the Methow is not just a promotional concept. Those of us who live here are also customers of the businesses featured in the magazine. We know the producers, we love what they sell, and we support them every way we can. Want to feel like a local? Do what we do: buy locally — and enjoy!

Don Nelson

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3• 2015 Made in the Methow •

IN THEMade

MethowNew for 2015

Table of

conTenTsMethowMade 4 Buying into it

The Methow Made marketing effort continues to build recognition

7 The ultimate summer Methow mealSizzling over a wood fire, sparkling in a hand-blown tumbler, served on rustic stoneware — the best of the valley shines in this easy dinner

10 Making things — and making it workThe Methow’s rural setting is not a big impediment to small manufacturing

13 Get it fresh at farmers markets

14 Rebuilding from the ashesThe Carlton Complex fire scorched Mcfarland Creek Lamb ranch

17 Liquid assetsThe Methow Valley offers a full spectrum of locally produced imbibables

18 The best endorsementMethow Valley residents are the primary consumers of Methow Valley stuff — and we love it

20 Local art, up close & personal

22 More that’s ‘Made in the Methow’

MADE IN THE METHOWDon Nelson, publisher/editor

Darla Hussey, designTyson Kellie, advertisingSheila ward, advertising

Dana Sphar, ad design/productionrebecca walker, office manager

CONTRIBUTORSAshley LodatoAnn McCreary

Don NelsonMarcy StamperLaurelle walsh

A publication of the Methow Valley News

P.o. Box 97, 101 N. Glover St., Twisp, wA 98856

(509) 997-7011 • fax (509) 997-3277www.methowvalleynews.com

On the cover: Samantha Carlin of Lucid

Glassworks, by Laurelle Walsh


Buying into itThe Methow Made marketing effort continues to build recognition

BY DON NELSON

METHOW Made, the marketing program developed by TwispWorks, has always

been more than a feel-good concept about buying locally. Its aim is to not only spread the word about the variety and quality of Methow Valley products, but also expand the market for those products geographically and through the Internet.

Three years into the program, which was originally launched with the help of a federal grant, Methow Made has gained a lot of traction in terms of recognition, locally and beyond.

Tangible measures of Methow Made’s impact on sales and distribution will always be more diffi cult to assess, said TwispWorks Executive Director Amy Stork — in part because the program represents a collection of small, independent businesses that make a lot different things and operate with distinct individuality.

In other words, there is no one-size-fi ts-all marketing plan or distribution effort that will work for everyone. Methow

Made’s goal is to instead create and promote a valley “brand” that emphasizes the variety, quality and availability of Methow Valley products.

A survey that TwispWorks conducted in fall 2014 indicates the branding effort has had the desired impact. Stork said that 83 percent of consumers responding to the survey said that Methow Made has made it easier for them to recognize local products; and 75 percent said that they buy a Methow Made product at least monthly.

Indeed, Stork said the program has been really well received by the community. “A side benefi t of marketing outside the valley has been exposing locals to the variety of hand-made things that are here,” she said.

Displays successful, durable

The Methow Made retail displays in several valley establishments have been the most successful element of the strategy in terms of visibility and response, Stork said. “It’s also the most durable element of the campaign, and most self-sustaining,” she added.

The biggest challenge remains how

to establish a consistent, cost-effective way to break into the Puget Sound area’s retail

market — where research shows that

the Methow Valley and all things associated with it have a huge fan base.

“It’s the Holy Grail ... but much

more diffi cult as to logistics,” Stork said. Retailers don’t want to deal with a bunch of small vendors — they want one bill, one invoice, one contact. But setting up such a distribution system remains elusive.

TwispWorks recently hosted a team of Seattle University business students who looked at the feasibility of expanding into the Puget Sound market, and concluded that logistics are daunting if not insurmountable.

It’s essentially not possible

to make distribution work for a startup, or even an existing business, without a substantial subsidy, Stork said. “Starting a business to do that is not going to be possible,” she said.

This year, TwispWorks will continue spreading the word, but paid advertising will be scaled back. Community donations to TwispWorks are supporting the administrative and staffi ng costs associated with Methow Made, Stork said, while membership fees paid by

Retail displays around the valley have been a highly successful part of the Methow Made marketing strategy. Photo by Don Nelson

because the program

distinct individuality.

The biggest challenge remains how

research shows that


participants go back into the marketing.

Room to growTwispWorks used a $41,000

federal grant to create a collaborative marketing campaign in 2013, which included development of a logo, advertising in Seattle-area publications as well as local media, marketing training for local producers, placement of product displays in local and regional stores, and website/social media marketing. The grant money has been used, so the program must now be self-supporting.

Methow Made will have between 45 and 50 members again this year, Stork said. Requirements for participation are that at least 75 percent of a product’s wholesale value must originate or occur in the Methow Valley; products must be

available for purchase; they must be adequately labeled; and the producer must have an online presence to facilitate sales.

Membership has been stable but “there is potential for continued growth,” Stork said.

Buying locally made goods is a strong value for the community, and for the valley’s extended community of long-time visitors, and second home owners, Stork said.

“People feel really passionate about supporting our local economy,” she said. “It has a big impact on the mind-set of the community.”

That was evident during the holiday season last year, when local producers heard from many people who were buying locally made products for all of their gift shopping, Stork said. Y

Bluebird Grain Farms will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Sept. 6 with a benefit dinner on the TwispWorks campus from 5-9 p.m., with proceeds going to support the Methow Made program. Cost is $40 for the dinner, a farro paella. For more information, go to http://twispworks.org/bluebird_methow_made_dinner.

Dine with Bluebird Grain Farms

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Local produce, art, crafts and more.


A summer meal made with Methow-grown and produced ingredients is best enjoyed al fresco. Photo by Laurelle Walsh


The ultimate summer Methow mealSizzling over a wood fire, sparkling in a hand-blown tumbler,

served on rustic stoneware — the best of the valley shines in this easy dinner.

BY LAURELLE WALSH

AFTER a day spent outdoors enjoying some of the area’s active pursuits — bicycling,

hiking, rock climbing, fl oating the river — the perfect summer

day in the Methow Valley is made complete by a leisurely evening with friends, food and a backyard campfi re.

Shop locally and get creative; the bounty of produce grown in the Methow changes seasonally, and is best eaten fresh. Many

ingredients are available at farmers markets in Twisp and Winthrop, or at one of the charming retailers that dot the valley: Rest Awhile Country Market in Pateros; the Carlton General Store; Thomson’s Meats, Hank’s Harvest Foods and Glover Street Market in Twisp; Evergreen IGA, Methow Masala, and Aspen Grove in Winthrop; and the Mazama Store.

How about an easy dinner featuring Thompon’s Meats’ garlic merlot sausage grilled over a Hotspot Fire Pits campfi re, and served on a fresh Okanogan Bakery hoagy roll spread with Methow Masala Schoolhouse Rock Mustard? While you’re waiting for the sausages to grill, sip on a glass of chilled Six Knot Goldilocks Cider.

Serve with a simple salad of Plow Horse Produce mixed greens topped with slivered almonds, fresh herbs and fresh apricots from Rest Awhile Country Market, and a dressing

of extra virgin olive oil, Hannah’s Opal Basil Vinegar, and Bee Light Honey.

Emmer farro from Bluebird Grain Farms is a good start for many make-ahead side dishes, including one that features roasted beets and garlic (available from local farmers starting in June), and Sunny Pine Farm goat milk feta. Here’s a recipe developed by yours truly:

Laurelle’s summer emmer

farro salad1 C Bluebird Grain Farms’

emmer farro — soaked overnight and drained

Local ingredients include a selection of Bluebird Grain Farms products. Photo by Don Nelson

Located at TwispWorksOpen

Wed-Thurs 12-5 & Fri-Sat 10-3 mvtwistedknitters.com

Locally Handspun Yarns

Locally Grown Romney Wool, Hand-Dyed In Beautiful Colors

Locally Grown Cashmere Yarn

Twisted KnittersTwisted Knitters


(will nearly double in size)2 medium beets or two

handfuls of baby beets (preferably with greens)

2 T olive oil½ t salt8 small, peeled garlic

cloves, whole3/4 C Smallwood Farms’

walnut pieces

orange vinaigrette½ C fresh squeezed orange

juice 1 t orange zest1 T seasoned rice vinegar1 small garlic clove,

mincedsalt and

white pepper to taste

1/4 C extra virgin olive oil

garnish½ C crumbled

Sunny Pine Farm goat milk feta

¼ C finely chopped Italian parsley

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toast the nuts on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes. (Be careful not to scorch.) Set aside nuts. Thoroughly wash the beets and set aside tenderest

greens. Chop beet roots into 3/4” cube; leave whole if tiny, or cut in half if small. Toss beets with olive oil and ½ t salt. Spread in single layer on baking sheet and roast, about 40 minutes. Stir whole garlic cloves into beets for final 10 minutes of roasting. Beets and garlic cloves should be fork-tender when done.

Bring soaked farro to a boil in medium saucepan

with 1 quart salted water (about 1 t salt). Turn

heat to low, cover, and

simmer 40 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Drain excess

water.While farro

is cooking, make vinaigrette.

Whisk together all ingredients except olive oil. Taste and add salt/pepper. Whisk in the olive oil until emulsified.

Chop beet greens. Toss cooked farro, beet greens, nuts and roasted vegetables together with vinaigrette in large mixing bowl. Gently toss in feta and parsley. Let rest one

hour. Best served at room temperature.

For dessert, serve slices of Cinnamon Twisp Bakery

pound cake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Delicious with an iced latte made with Lariat Coffee Roaster’s Black Colt

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Coming soon. Dairy products from our Guernsey & Jersey cows.

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coffee concentrate poured over milk and ice. For other drinkable options to grace your table, see the list of locally produced beverages on page 17.

This summer meal is presented in glassware by Lucid Glassworks; ceramic tableware by Almquist Pottery and by Jim Neupert; and handwoven linens by members of the Methow Valley Spinners and Weavers Guild. Y

Invite your friends over for a backyard cookout over a wood fire in a Hotspot Fire Pit – made right here in the Methow Valley. Photo by Laurelle Walsh

Locally Grown Trees, Shrubs, Evergreens, Perennials and Vines

Fri - Sun 10 am - 5 pm(509) 341-4819 • Winthrop

Soul Food


Making things — and making it workThe Methow’s rural setting is not a big impediment to small manufacturing

By Marcy StaMper

A hundred years ago, efforts to launch an industry in the Methow Valley by extracting gold

from high in the mountains were crippled by the expense and challenges of transporting tons of equipment and rock by steamboat, horse and even dogsled.

The round trip from Winthrop to Wenatchee took three days. But that was before modern, efficient

transportation, commercial shipping companies and the Internet.

Today, local manufacturers and artisans find that not only is the still-somewhat-remote location of the Methow Valley not an impediment to their success, but it’s actually an asset.

“Good design can overcome

“Good design can

overcome a lot of the logistical

challenges. Not only can you overcome it, but you can use

it to your design advantage.”

–Jonathan Baker, eqpd

Anna Dooley helps design eqpd’s colorful, durable tote bags, which can carry everything from a laptop to cinderblocks to freshly caught fish on ice. Photo by Marcy Stamper


a lot of the logistical challenges. Not only can you overcome it, but you can use it to your design advantage,” said Jonathan Baker, the founder of eqpd, which designs and manufactures a line of colorful, durable tote bags in Twisp.

“People are like, ‘You’re crazy, manufacturing here — you’re 100 miles away,’” said Baker. “But there’s mail order — that’s why the location doesn’t scare us,” he said. “Twisp has a post offi ce and UPS.”

It also helps that today people are accustomed to ordering everything online — from toothpaste to artisanal cheese to lawn mowers.

Of course, for Baker, who makes, lightweight, sturdy bags that are designed to be packed fl at and won’t spoil, shipping was not a major hurdle.

For Samantha Carlin, who makes hand-blown glasses and vases at Lucid Glassworks a few doors away from eqpd, getting her product to customers and retailers in one piece presents distinct challenges.

But Carlin makes it work and keeps it affordable. She recycles boxes with built-in dividers, Styrofoam peanuts, bubble wrap and newspaper to pack her glassware. “As long as my friend keeps making jams and jellies and giving me the boxes, I’m OK,” said Carlin.

Location is important

Location was a key component for Baker when he developed his product line — he wanted to create something that could be made simply, from materials made in the United States. In fact, Baker moved to Twisp from the Northeast to set up shop before he even knew what he was going to create.

Baker had spent 15 years designing athletic equipment including lacrosse and hockey helmets before he decided to launch his own manufacturing business. He knew he wanted to make everyday, affordable objects that would have a universal appeal for their aesthetics and their functionality.

Baker initially came to the Methow on vacation and then discovered TwispWorks and its support for small-scale businesses. “I thought, ‘This could be a healthy place to start a business — an unknown business,’” he said.

The nature of the Methow’s population — “spanning fourth-generation ranchers to Microsoft retirees” — convinced Baker that area residents would value a well-made, nearly indestructible product. “There’s a utilitarian nature about what people buy and use here, because it’s a pain to fi x things,”

Samantha Carlin travels to Seattle four or five times a year to pick up supplies for her hand-blown glass tumblers, but finds the trips are an excellent way to connect with customers and to find new retail outlets. Photo by Marcy Stamper

Carolee Addis509.429.9820

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•Leashes •Collars •Moli Stix & More

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So future generations can enjoy all that is “Made in the Methow”

Inspiring people to care for the land forever. www.methowconservancy.org

509-996-2870

phot

o by

Jaso

n Pa

ulse

n


he said.The location also informed

Carlin’s design for her glassware, and the need to travel to pick up supplies has helped her sales. She takes advantage of trips to art fairs and farmers markets to fi nd new shops interested in selling her glassware, and she enjoys the travel and the chance to make personal connections with her customers. “I love talking to people about what I do. It helps sell it,” she said.

The main supplies Carlin needs for glassblowing are small nuggets of clear glass that come in 50-pound bags, and bars of colored glass that weigh a few pounds each. She goes through several dozen of the 50-pound bags each year and makes four or fi ve trips to Seattle to replenish her supply, since the heavy glass is expensive to ship. She also uses these trips to scout out new markets for her custom-blown glass.

It’s more affordable here

Over time, Carlin has refi ned her business to focus on a design that has proven popular with customers and is cost-effective to make. Her mainstay is a selection of “dot tumblers,” clear drinking glasses accented with colorful spots that can be

mixed and matched but don’t require large amounts of the more-expensive colored glass.

Establishing her studio in the Methow added $300 or $400 in delivery costs for each piece of heavy equipment, but operating the furnace and annealing oven is cheaper here.

Although electricity is still her biggest expense, overhead for her studio is much lower than it would be in a city, said Carlin. “I can’t imagine the costs in Seattle. Being in the Methow Valley is more affordable — but I live hand to mouth,” she said.

Small-scale manufacturers and artists also benefi t from a current philosophical preference among consumers that they hope will grow. People value buying locally made products and using things made in the United States, said Carlin. “My biggest competitor is a factory in China,” she said.

China also came up when Baker talked about his approach to business. “We don’t want to be boutique,” he said. “This is how we disrupt the China infl ux — by getting the price down far enough.”

Both Lucid Glassworks and eqpd sell through retailers in Washington, Oregon and other western states, and through their own websites. “The problem is not demand — I can sell as many tumblers

as I can possibly make,” said Carlin, who hopes to be able to hire someone to extend her production cycle.

Baker employs four people to help design, sew and attach fasteners to his bags. A new machine allows them to stamp each one with a specialized logo, which is expanding their markets, including a recent contract with North Cascades National Park.

Now that eqpd’s bags are

proving successful, Baker hopes to launch other branches of small-scale manufacturing around the country, where they would make bags or other specialty objects — and provide badly needed manufacturing jobs.

Like Baker, Carlin has a goal of creating employment opportunities. “I’m totally into small-town revitalization — providing a job and making a living doing what I love,” she said. Y

Jonathan Baker, the founder of eqpd, talks with a customer at the Methow Valley Farmers Market. Baker designed eqpd’s tote bags to be universal and versatile, using colors that appeal to women and men. Photo by Don Nelson

Art That Kicks Butt

GingerReddington

Commissions upon request509.997.2721 • cell 509.995.2471 www.gingerreddington.comAlways on exhibit in the Twisp River Pub, Methow Valley Inn & Twisp River Suites

Open Daily 7am - 6pm g 996-2855g 50 Lost River Road

A little bit of everything good...

themazamastore.com

mazama store

Featuring a variety of local foods and handmade goods exclusive to the Methow Valley


FARMERS markets offer local produce, art and handicraft items at several locations in and around

the Methow Valley. Here’s how to fi nd them:

Methow Valley Farmers MarketSaturday, 9 a.m.–noonApril-OctoberMethow Valley Community Center, Highway 20, Twisp

Winthrop MarketMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekendSunday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.Mack Lloyd Park, Highway 20, Winthrop

Pateros Farmers MarketFriday, 3 –7 p.m.April – October

Downtown mall district, Pateros

Brewster Farmers MarketSaturday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.Wednesday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.June-OctoberFifth North and Third streets, Brewster

Okanogan Valley Farmers MarketSaturday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.May-October American Legion Park, Second and Harley streets, Okanogan

Okanogan Valley Farmers MarketTuesday, 3:30–6:30 p.m.June-October Civic League Park, Central and Ash streets, Omak Y

Get it fresh at farmers markets

Get it fresh at farmers markets

You can count on finding locally made food, arts, crafts, clothing and other products at the region’s farmers markets. Photo by Don Nelson

Downtown Twisp116 N. Glover Street

509.997.5030Free Internet Access

www.cinnamontwisp.com

Pastries & Breads organic flours & grains

Breakfast & Lunch Sandwiches & Bagels

Iced Organic Espresso, Smoothies & Shakes

Sit in or Take out!

Open Everyday 6am - 3pm

Naturally GrowN Fruit& Produce

Stop by our fruit Stand in okanogan ~ Open 7 days a week from 7:30am-6pm ~

fruit & produce available at the Methow Valley farmer’s Market every Saturday & at our Winthrop fruit stand

Serving breakfast & lunch daily on the deck

Smokehouse BBQ dinners

Fri & Sat nights 5-9 pm

Come see our

u-piCk

puMpkin patCh

this fall!

(509) 422-2444 • 23090 Hwy. 20, OkanOganOn tHe rigHt 1.8 mi. befOre dOwntOwn OkanOgan

www.smallwoodfarms.net

ESprESSo & free Wi-fi


Rebuilding from the ashesThe Carlton Complex Fire scorched McFarland Creek Lamb Ranch

By Ann MccreAry

SpringtiMe brought a healthy crop of new lambs to McFarland Creek Lamb Ranch — 22 lambs born big

and strong.It was good news for Katie

Haven and Bill Tackman, who produce wool and meat on their small farm about a mile up McFarland Creek.

“This was the best year yet in terms of health and good mothering,” said Haven.

The couple has a flock of about 40 Romney sheep on their 20-plus acre farm. Tackman, a licensed surveyor who grew up on an eastern Oregon sheep and cattle ranch, chose the breed because it produces both good wool and meat.

Haven joined Tackman on the farm about six years ago, two years after she hired him to survey a piece of property she owns near Twisp. She still owns the property, and has a studio there where she processes and dyes her wool.

Maintaining even a small ranch is hard work for two people, but the job got a lot tougher after the Carlton Complex Fire raged through McFarland Creek last July,

destroying their barn, a shop full of tools and equipment, a woodshed and a bunkhouse where Haven had stored 25 fleeces that she planned to process. Miraculously, their small farmhouse and all their animals survived.

With help from family and friends, Haven and Tackman were able to complete a new barn just before winter arrived to provide shelter for their sheep and their three Mareema sheep dogs, who guard the flock from predators.

But it’s an ongoing process to bounce back from the fire, which left the hillsides surrounding the farm blackened and studded with burnt skeletons of trees. In particular, rebuilding pasture fences that were damaged or destroyed by the fire has taken tremendous time and energy.

“It’s a lot of hard work ahead of me, having to repair a lot of stuff and regroup,” said Haven, who retired after a 26-year career as a merchant mariner and tends to the farm when Tackman is busy with his surveying work.

Fire a setbackAfter the annual sheep

shearing in April, Haven has 40 fresh fleeces awaiting her attention. “I’m just dying to get at them,” she said. “But we’ve got to build a ton of fence. The whole fire thing last year really set me back.”

When Haven was young, her grandmother taught her to knit, and Haven continued knitting throughout her life. But it was

only after joining Tackman on the farm that she became involved in the process of producing fiber.

When she realized that Tackman wasn’t doing anything with the wool after the sheep were sheared each spring, she couldn’t stand to see it go unused.

“I was horrified to find out he was throwing wool into the landfill. I thought, ‘We’ve got to figure out something to do with this,’” Haven said. “I kept thinking we could make beautiful yarn out of this. But all those steps up to getting the finished skein of yarn were

things I had to learn.”The couple hires a

professional shearer to shear the sheep, and then Haven does the skirting — pulling off the dirty parts of the fleece. The couple uses those parts of the fleece to pack around water valves in winter for insulation.

Because spring and summer are such busy times on the ranch, Haven stores the fleeces in the hayloft until winter, when she takes them to her studio to wash and dye. Each fleece is soaked in hot water with detergent for about 30 minutes, drained and spun to get the excess water out, soaked again,

Katie Haven and Bill Tackman raise lambs on their McFarland Creek ranch. Photo by Ann McCreary


and rinsed twice. The fl eece can’t be agitated or scrubbed in the water, or it will turn into felt, she said.

“It’s not rocket science, but it takes a lot of time. I wash all

winter,” Haven said.

Unique yarnsAfter the fl eeces are washed,

they are ready for dying. Haven produces a broad palette of

colors using natural dyes from plants, some of which she grows herself, including madder root, which gives a deep coral color, and chamomile, for yellows. She has found that strong, vibrant colors are more popular than paler pastels.

She also leaves some of her fl eeces in natural colors, which includes shades of black, grey, silver and brown. “I really like those natural colors. They are unique because even the same sheep will change from year to year,” she said.

Haven ships her cleaned and natural color or dyed fl eece to a small, custom spinning mill in Utah, which spins each

fl eece individually into yarn that is labeled with the name of the sheep that produced it. When customers buy a skein of Haven’s yarn, they know, for

A new barn was built after the Carlton Complex Fire destroyed the ranch’s outbuildings. Photo by Ann McCreary

“I was horrified to

find out he was

throwing wool into

the landfill. I thought,

‘We’ve got to figure

out something to do

with this,’”

– Katie Haven,

McFarland Creek

Lamb Ranch

We offer multiple sizes & a variety of accessories.Available at The Mazama Store in Mazama, Methow

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instance, if the wool came from Gertrude, Sylvia or Esther.

“The quality of the fl eece varies from animal to animal,” Haven said. She is excited about a newly purchased Cormo ram, which will produce “a much fi ner wool” when bred with the Romney sheep.

Meat from the farm is primarily sold to friends, or friends of friends, Haven said. A few customers have made contact through the farm’s website.

“I have a list that has grown over the years. When we have lambs ready for butchering, I send an email to the list. We don’t butcher until we have a customer lined up,” Haven said.

This year the couple expects to sell up to 18 of the 22 lambs, and will save a few for replacement breeders, she said.

“We do the harvesting

ourselves on site, which I think is the best way, the most humane way,” Haven said. Some lambs are harvested in the fall, others in the spring.

Customers can buy whole or half lambs, which are prepared by a local butcher. Haven said they generally use Chris Thomson of Thomson’s Meats in Twisp, or Mike Judd in Brewster, depending on the customer’s preference.

Tackman, whose family raised 800 cattle and 1,000 sheep when he was growing up in Oregon, said even a small farm like McFarland Creek Lamb Ranch is a huge commitment.

“I don’t know if people understand the effort that goes into producing a lamb chop,” Tackman said. “I have my survey business to support my lamb business,” he said with a laugh.

“It’s a labor of love.” YEach skein of yarn is labled with the name of the sheep whose fleece it came from. Photo courtesy of Katie Haven

Available in storesthroughout the Methow

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Molly’s Soap

Handmade soaps using

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THE Methow Valley is home to a variety of liquid refreshments that can be purchased — and in some

cases, consumed — where they are produced, and are also available at many local retail outlets and other locations in Washington state and beyond. All of them are made right here and each has their devotees. We recommend that you sample the whole lot of them and decide on your own favorites.

Blue Star Coffee RoastersProducer of small-batch, award-winning, artisan-roasted coffee in a variety of roasts.3 Twisp Airport Road, Twisp(509) 997-2583www.bluestarcoffeeroasters.com

Lariat Coffee RoastersProducer of single-source, organic/fair trade coffee in a variety of roasts.6 Horizon Flats Road, No. 4, Winthrop (509) 996-3371www.lariatcoffee.com

Lost River WineryBoutique winery that produces a variety of award-winning white and red wines.26 Highway 20, Winthrop(509) 996-2888www.lostriverwinery.com

Methow Valley Brewing/Twisp River PubLow-volume, high-quality beers brewed on site.201 N. Methow Valley Highway,

Twisp(509) 997-6822www.methowbrewing.com

Methow Valley CiderhouseVariety of award-winning ciders made from apples grown on site.13 B Walter Rd., Winthrop(509) 341-4354www.methowvalleyciderhouse.com

Methow Valley Water CompanyNaturally fi ltered glacier water — Methow Spring — bottled in the valley.Wesola Polana18381 Highway 20, Winthrop(509) 996-4448www.methowspring.com

Old Schoolhouse BreweryProduces a variety of award-winning ales at on-site brewery.155 Riverside Ave., Winthrop(509) 996-3183www.oldschoolhousebrewery.com

Sinclair Orchards and CiderhouseProducers of Sixknot Cider, made from certifi ed organic apples grown at the Sinclair orchard and by other local orchardists.PO Box 906, Twisp(509) 997-0202www.sixknotcider.com Y

The Methow Valley offers a full spectrum of locally produced imbibables

Sixknot Cider is made with apples from local orchards. Photo by Don Nelson

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Visit us on the

Methow ValleyStudio Tour

September 19-20, 2015

Rick Swanson509.996.2297rick@swansonwoodcraft.comwww.swansonwoodcraft.com

20 Pleasant View Dr,Winthrop, WACabinetry & Custom Furniture

Methow Valley Spinners & Weavers Guild

2015 Show & SaleFriday, November 20, 2:00 – 6:30

Saturday, November 21, 9:00 – 3:00

137 Old Twisp Highwayoff Hwy 20 between Twisp & Winthrop

Towels, Blankets, Rugs, Scarves &More ~~ Lots of Great Gifts!All hand-woven by guild members

Weaving & photo by Katie Swanson


The best endorsementMethow Valley residents are the primary consumers of Methow Valley stuff — and we love it

BY ASHLEY LODATO

WE are nothing if not loyal, we in the Methow Valley. You have an idea? We’ll support it.

You want to start something new? We’ll help you fi gure it out. You want to create a product? We’ll rush to try it.

We are, to some degree, ideal product testers. We’re

adventuresome eaters. We’re

conscientious consumers of lotions, potions and salves (and since our skin is chronically dry, we can absorb huge tubs of cream). We adore local art. We can’t get enough of natural fi bers. And we never let a few big-city fashion prescriptions get in the way of wearing what we’re comfortable in.

A couple of years ago I was in Seattle with my daughters and one of them was wearing a Neve Wear recycled wool skirt. A woman in a Fuel coffee shop commented, “Oh how cute, your daughter is wearing one of those Methow Valley skirts.”

Right, the Methow Valley skirts. Kind of like the Methow Valley drilled rock necklaces, the Methow Valley vinyl tote bags, and the Methow Valley glass dot tumblers. Someone rolls into town, creates a hot new product, and suddenly not only is that product associated with the people of the Methow Valley, but the people of the Methow Valley are identifi ed by that product.

Some might call Methow consumers unimaginative. Have you been at a potluck at which a

Mazama sea salt baguette paired with Sunny Pine Farm chevre doesn’t make an appearance? Have you given a gift bag that

We are, to some degree, ideal product testers. We’re

adventuresome eaters. We’re

fashion prescriptions get in the way of wearing what we’re comfortable in.


Right, the Methow Valley skirts. Kind of like the Methow Valley drilled rock necklaces, the Methow Valley vinyl tote bags, and the Methow Valley glass dot tumblers. Someone rolls into town, creates a hot new product, and suddenly not only is that product associated with the people of the Methow Valley, but the people of the Methow Valley are identifi ed by that product.

Some might call Methow consumers unimaginative. Have you been at a potluck at which a

Hand-blown bowl by Ouzel

Glass. Photo by Laurelle Walsh

conscientious consumers of lotions, potions and salves (and since our skin is chronically dry, we can absorb huge tubs of cream). We adore local art. We

fashion prescriptions get in the way of wearing what we’re comfortable in.


Right, the Methow Valley skirts. Kind of like the Methow Valley drilled rock necklaces, the Methow Valley vinyl tote bags, and the Methow Valley glass dot tumblers. Someone rolls into town, creates a hot new product, and suddenly not only is that product associated with the people of the Methow Valley, but the people of the Methow Valley are identifi ed by

Mazama sea salt baguette paired

Handblown glass by Laura Aspenwall

Showing at the Winthrop Gallery

509-996-3316www.ouzelglass.com


didn’t include a bar of Molly’s soap? When was the

last public event you attended that didn’t

include coffee from one of

our local roasters? With all the many

purchasing choices

available to us, why do we turn so consistently to those made close to home?

First-rate products

Well for starters, because they’re good.

Oh sure, we know the data about two-thirds of money spent at local businesses recirculating back into the local economy. We appreciate local businesses

employing local workers at fair wages.

And we believe that buying local strengthens community ties. But mostly, we buy Methow made products because they’re

fi rst-rate.Our commitment to buying

Methow-made products is also bolstered by the idea that if we’re going to make the Methow work, we all have to do our part to ensure the success of others. Like our homesteading forefathers and the Methow people who settled here before all of us, we recognize the hardscrabble effort in scratching out a living in this place. But like them, we believe that the struggle is worth it.

So when we see someone trying to fi gure out a way to live here, and that way includes entrepreneurship, we want to nurture that effort. If they succeed, not only does it validate our own belief in the possibility of a Methow life, but it also — through a trickle-down local economy — makes our own existence here more viable.

So Methow Valley growers, artists, and producers, go ahead and keep making your Methow products. Keep growing your wheat, throwing your pots, spinning your yarns, roasting your beans, sowing your seeds, and hammering your silver. We’re here for you. Y

didn’t include a bar of Molly’s soap? When was the

last public event you attended that didn’t

include coffee from one of

our local roasters? With all the many

purchasing choices

available to us, why do we turn so consistently to those made close to home?

First-rate products

Well for starters, because they’re good.

Oh sure, we know the data about two-thirds of money spent at local businesses recirculating back into the local economy. We appreciate local businesses

employing local workers at fair wages.

And we believe that buying

Nest box by Nice Nests. Photo by Don Nelson

Hand towels from Door No. 3. Photo by Steve Mitchell

Naturally dyed yarns,sustainably raised meat.

McFarland creek laMb ranchwww.thelambranch.com • 509-923-1916squareup.com/market/emilypostpottery

[email protected] • 509-341-4710

EmilyPostPottery


LOCAL arts and crafts are on exhibit — and for sale — at several locations in the Methow Valley. A few are

listed below. Some local products can also be found at retail outlets including the Mazama Store, the Carlton General Store, the Winthrop Store, Hank’s Harvest Foods in Twisp, Evergreen IGA in Winthrop, the Sun Mountain Lodge gift shop, YardFood in Twisp and Glover Street Market in Twisp.

Confluence Gallery & Art CenterLocal and regional artists104 Glover St., Twisp(509) 997-2787www.confl uencegallery.com

Winthrop Gallery Local artists’ cooperative237 Riverside Ave., Winthrop

(509) 996-3925www.winthropgallery.com

TwispWorksSeveral artists’ studios and workshops on the campus, including Culler Studio, d.o.g. dudz, eqpd, Glitter & Grit Silversmith, Lucid Glassworks, Methow Gallery, Methow Metalworks, Methow Valley Clay Arts Center, Twisted Knitters and Ward Studio502 S. Glover St., Twisp(509) 997-3300www.twispworks.org

Door No. 3Print and book arts [email protected]

D*SignsGallery featuring local artists109 B N. Glover St., Twisp(509) 997-0255

Local art, up close &

personal


personal


personal

aspengrovehome.com | 156 Riverside Ave. | (509) 996-200912 Airport Road, Twisp

www.methowrecycles.org • 997-0520Tuesday & Thursday: 10am to 4pm Saturday: 9am to 4pm

Methow Recycles is Methow Made-please join us!


Find local products at Confluence Gallery’s gift shop. Photo by Don Nelson

K - Rootorganic methow radio

97.5 FM KtRt tHE Root

Since 1903, the independent and locally owned Methow Valley News has focused solely on two things:

1) Reporting the news and events of the Methow Valley.

2) Providing an effective and reliable source of advertising for local and regional businesses.

509-997-7011 • www.methowvalleynews.com

Local. Very local.

More than 100 years serving the Methow Valley.

Handmade in Mazama

intertwineddesigns.com

Available Locally At:Goat’s Beard, Nectar, & ConfLuence Gallery


More that’s ‘Made in

the Methow’

More that’s ‘Made in

the Methow’More that’s

‘Made in the Methow’

D*signs gallery in Twisp features

local artists. Photo by Don Nelson

Glass comes in many shapes at Glass Works of Winthrop. Photo by Don Nelson

A variety of lotions, salves and creams are available for soothing relief. Photo by Don Nelson

Organically grown produce from Ruby Slipper Farms. VEGETABLE Photos by Laurelle WALSH

Methow-made ceramics are popular gifts.

Photo by Don Nelson


Fresh bread is a staple at local farmers markets. Photo by Don Nelson

Find hand-crafted wearables at Winthrop Gallery. Photo by Don Nelson

High-quality local art is always on display at Confluence Gallery in Twisp. Photos by don Nelson

Local Artists Cooperative Gallery

Fine Art and Gifts

996-3925237 Riverside Ave, Downtown Winthropwww.winthropgallery.com

ova lpeak@gmai l . comwww.brucemorr i son . com

(509 ) 997-4805 - 402 Br idge S t ree tTw isp WA 98856

Carving & SculptureSIGNS • DOORS • MANTELS • ORNAMENTS


Artists & Artisans

Made in the Methow Business Directory

(509) [email protected]/market/emilypostpottery

Emily Post Pottery

Handcrafted ceramic wares inspired by nature for yourself and for your home.

See Display ad on page 19


(509) 997-2721 or (509) [email protected]

Ginger ReddingtonWorking out of her home studio in Twisp, Ginger’s paintings have a depth, movement and jewel-like quality to the color that make them truly unique. On display at the Twisp River Pub.

(509) 996-3316 ouzelglass.com227 Wolf Creek Road, Winthrop, WA 98862

Ouzel GlassworksHand-blown glass by Laura Aspenwall. Located on the Methow Valley Community Trail. Open studio Saturdays noon to 4:00 during the ski season.


Rick Swanson(509) [email protected] Box 1196, 20 Pleasant View Dr., Winthrop. WA 98862

Swanson Woodcraft

40+ years experience in custom furniture and cabinetry for new construction or interior remodels. Licensed & bonded – local references available.


methowweavers.com

Methow Valley Spinners& Weavers

Weekly meetings--check our website.Want to see the work done by the Guild?Annual Show & SaleNov. 20-21, 2015


(509) [email protected] Riverside Ave. DowntownWinthrop, WA 98862

Winthrop GalleryRepresenting many professional artists of the region as a cooperative gallery. Staffed and managed entirely by its artist members and volunteers.


Brewers

Eateries

Coffee Roasters

(509) [email protected] Horizon Flats Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862

Lariat Coffee RoastersStop by our shop for locally roasted coffee, brewing equipment and more. Also available for sale throughout the Methow or visit our online store.



(509) 997-5030cinnamontwisp.com116 North Glover StreetTwisp, WA 98856

Cinnamon Twisp BakeryHandcrafted breads, bagels & pastries baked daily with local, organic ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, cookies, bars &dessert items galore! Espresso, smoothies & shakes. Delightful service in town.

(509) 996-3183oldschoolhousebrewery.com155 Riverside Ave.Winthrop, WA 98862

Old Schoolhouse BreweryWe’re all about the beer!Live music every weekend.Open daily at noon for lunch & dinner.


(509) 429-7726brucemorrison.com [email protected](509) 997-4805 - 402 Bridge St.Twisp WA 98856

Bruce Morrison Sculpture

Capturing your vision in hand carved wood and stone.


Made in the Methow Business Directory


Fruit & Produce Growers

Local Goods

Eateries, Cont.

(509) 422-2444 smallwoodfarms.net23090 Hwy. 20Okanogan, WA 98840

Smallwood FarmsWe strive to grow the highest quality fruit and produce, also come visit us for espresso and our restaurant with smoke-house BBQ dinners on the deck.


(509) 997-4766(888) 295-4765hotspotfi repits.com

Hotspot Fire PitsMade in the Methow Valley by craftspeople and skilled metalworkers who are dedicated to quality and longevity. Multiple sizes and a variety of accessories available.


(509) 996-2009aspengrovehome.com156 Riverside AvenueWinthrop, Wash. 98862

Aspen GroveAspen Grove is a home and kitchen store. Stop in to discover cookware, dishes, table linens, cookbooks and many locally made products, wines and ciders.



(800) [email protected] Patterson Lake Rd.Winthrop, WA 98862

Sun Mountain Lodge

Sun Mountain Lodge features 112 guest rooms, two restaurants, private lake, two pools, spa services, gear rentals, shopping and 60 kilometers of trails. Call 800.572.0493 for reservations. www.sunmountainlodge.com.


(509) [email protected] uence Gallery, Carlton Store, TwispWorks South Warehouse Studio

d.o.g. dudz

Performance gear for your dog’s active lifestyle.

(509) 996-3526bluebirdgrainfarms.comPO Box 1082 Winthrop, WA 98862

Bluebird Grain Farms


Your source for the fi nest 100% organic grains, fresh-milled fl our and whole-grain blends, including mixes for great-tasting and nutritious cereals, pancakes, pilafs and more.

(509) [email protected] Glover Street, Twisp WA 98856

eqpdMerging great design with local manufacturing in a variety of bags, totes, packs and protective gear for use in active, everyday lives.



(509) [email protected] Riverside Ave., Downtown Winthrop, 98862

Rocking Horse BakeryDelectable breads, pastries, organic Espresso, salads and sandwiches featuring local ingredients handcrafted in Winthrop’s favorite gathering spot.


(360) 319-0342intertwineddesigns.com

Intertwined DesignsIntertwined Designs Produces Organic, Eco-Friendly Clothing that is Handmade in Mazama. Celebrating 15 years of Making Clothing in the North Cascades. Visit our Website.


(509) [email protected]

Methow Cycle & Sport

A full service bicycle and Nordic ski shop serving the Methow Valley since 2005.


McFarland Creek Lamb RanchMcFarland Creek Lamb Ranch is a small sheep farm near the town of Methow. Our products include yarn (hand dyed/natural), roving, fleece and meat.


(509) 923-1916thelambranch.com


(509) [email protected]

Molly’s SoapHandmade in the Methow Valley. Available online or at Glover St. Market, Mazama Store, Winthrop Evergreen Market, Sun Mt. Lodge, Robins Egg Bleu,The Winthrop Store, Aspen Grove and Methow Masala.

(509) 996-8297501 HWY 20Winthrop, WA 98862

Robins Egg Bleu

Antiques, collectibles, vintage home and garden. Repurposed, recycled and locally crafted décor and furniture. Whimsical and needful things. Patina and rust!!


Local Goods, Cont.


(509) [email protected] Twisp River Road, Twisp, WA 98856

Organic Dairy featuring Chevre, Feta & YogurtComing soon: Dairy products from our Guernsey & Jersey cows.

Sunny Pine Farm


Texas Creek Products

Fresh salsa and specialty sauces made with locally grown chiles and other unique ingredients. Available at local stores and online.

(800) 231-2607 or (509) 997-5420texascreekproducts.comPO Box 116 / 33 Old Carlton RdCarlton, WA 98814


(509) [email protected] Twisp Carlton Rd.Twisp, WA 98856

Thomson’s Custom Meats USDA certified

meat shop selling all varieties of natural meats. Specializing in handcrafted sausage and smoked meats.

Thomson’sCuSToM

MEaTS

(509) 997-0520methowrecycles.org12 Airport Road, Twisp

Methow RecyclesThe valley’s only Recycling Center.Twisp: Open Tues. & Thurs. 10am-4pm, Sat. 9am-4pm, 12 Twisp Airport Rd. Winthrop: Open 24/7 on Horizon Flats Rd.Check our website for materials accepted.


(509) [email protected] Hwy 20, Twisp WA 98856

Hank’s Harvest Foods

Family owned and operated since 1975. Open Mon - Sat, 7am - 9pm & Sunday, 8am - 8pm


(509) 996-2855themazamastore.com50 Lost River RdMazama, WA 98833

Mazama StoreA little bit of everything good...



Wineries

Winthrop (509) 996-2888Seattle (206) 448-2124lostriverwinery.com

Lost River WineryDemystifying wine & bringing joy to your table from the Methow Valley since 2002.Visit our tasting rooms in Winthrop and Seattle.


Radio

Local Organizations


(509) [email protected] Riverside Avenue/PO Box 71Winthrop, WA 98862

Methow ConservancyThe Methow Conservancy is a non-profi t organization dedicated to inspiring people to care for and conserve the land of the Methow Valley.

Real Estate

(509) 997-6562windermeremethow.com313 E. Methow Valley HwyTwisp, WA 98856

Windermere Real Estate


REAL ESTATE

Winthrop MarketLocal produce, art, crafts and vintage collectibles. In the shady Winthrop Town Park. Every Sunday 10am - 2pm, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

LOGO


[email protected] N. Hwy 20, Winthrop, WA 98862

Local Goods, Cont.

(509) 341-4819wildheartsnursery.com809 T/W Eastside RoadPO Box 788Winthrop, WA 98862

Wild Hearts NurseryOpen Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10-5, April-October. We grow and offer for sale a variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, vines and evergreens all raised right here in the Methow Valley.


mvtwistedknitters.com Located at TwispWorks502 S. Glover St,Twisp, WA 98856

Twisted KnittersOffering locally handspun yarns, needles, notions, pure Romney wool yarns from the Methow Valley, hand-dyed in beautiful colors.

LOGO



KTRT 97.5 FM

(509) 996-8200radioroot.comPO Box 3008Winthrop, WA, 98862-3008

The Methow Valley’s own independent radio station featuring an eclectic mix of music and programming.

K - ROOT

made in the methow 2015

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