Skamokawa is setting for writers' retreat

Columbia River Explorations in Skamokawa is presenting a writers' retreat, "Writing Family and Community History," taught by historian and author Irene Martin, April 12-15.

The retreat is for anyone interested in researching and writing family history and genealogy, local history, and community history, whether at the beginning or advanced level.

Irene Martin is the author of numerous books and articles on history, and is the winner of the James B. Castles Heritage Award and the Governor's Heritage Award.

The workshop will be held at the Skamokawa Meeting House and will consist of interactive presentations, participants reading from their own work, and field trips to local historical venues. Free time will allow opportunities to hike and kayak the scenic backwaters of the lower Columbia River. Participants will be housed in the Skamokawa Inn and all meals are included.

"People have stories they want to tell," says Martin. "The idea of this workshop is to acquaint them with the tools and methods used by historians."

Cost for lodging, meals and registration for the four-day program is $480 (double occupancy). For more information, or to register, please contact Carla Keilwitz, Columbia River Explorations, at 888-920-2777. Full details at http://www.skamokawakayak.com/writersretreat.htm.