Letter: ‘Get yourself a spoon and grab those pots’

Published 8:11 am Friday, December 26, 2025

By Staff reports

We are Oregonians by choice, having moved here over 31 years ago. Many things about Astoria have changed since 1994, and I’d like to bring back one New Year’s Eve tradition from that day.

For those new to Astoria, as 2026 arrives, likely the ships parked in our estuary will sound their horns, and some neighborhoods will have folks who set off fireworks. When we first got here, people grabbed their pans and wooden spoons, went outside, and banged those pans to welcome the year. Everyone can participate, it has no bad environmental fallout, and it’s fun!

So, let’s start this next crazy year with a bang. Get yourself a spoon and grab those pots and pans! Happy New Year! I’ll be listening and banging with you.

JAN MITCHELL

Astoria