Surprises can pop up in the most unexpected places. On a recent vacation to the Columbia River gorge area in Oregon, I discovered a most pleasant surprise … a cedar strip boat, kayak and canoe builder. Ray Klebba has been building water craft for over 20 years, and his skill shows in the finished products I saw and photographed. He actually refers to his water craft as “functional art” and I have to agree with him. Many of his pieces grace the luxurious interiors of many of America’s lodges and corporate offices.  The boat shop is situated on the main street of White Salmon, a small town just across the river from the city of Hood River. If you have never visited this area, bring your camera and be prepared for great scenery, wonderful people and the trip of a life time … but back to the boats works …