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Bep's is Newton's old-fashioned
country store
By Stephanie Hebert
October 29, 2007 | NEWTON -- Bep's Country Market can
be found in Newton, and as in any convenience store,
the usual can be found such as soda pop, milk, and bread.
"I try to keep my prices low so it doesn't pay to go
to Logan," said Rebecca Griffin the store owner.
More important then the goods the store sells is what
it offers to the people of the town. Tom Barker of Newton
comes into the store every day to get some ice cream
and talk with Griffin. Barker usually stays about an
hour and talks with Griffin and anyone else who wants
to talk.
"Haven't heard of anyone hitting a cow?" asks Kelly
May of Clarkston. He came into the store to find out
if Griffin had heard anything from anyone about a cow
he had found dead in the middle of the road early Friday
morning.
"One of our favorite stops," said David Kent of Smithfield.
He and his wife Barbara tandem bike around the valley
and stop in when their ride leads by the market.
After the cow was discussed May and Barker started
discussing the most scenic way to see Oregon when you
are driving. May suggested driving on Highway 26 and
avoiding the interstate.
"You'll meet everyone here," said Griffin.
There is also a pool table in the back that for 75
cents a game anyone can play. The local church ward's
young men's groups would come in and play a game when
they had time. Families even would come in a play a
game on family home evening nights. Unfortunately, due
to some remodeling the pool table is temporarily out
of order.
Griffin also seems to know her customers well. A group
of teenagers came in for their afternoon pop and Griffin
commented on a recent birthday of one of the boy's brothers.
Unfortunately due to health problems with Griffin's
mother, the store is up for sale. Griffin said that
no matter whoever buys the store, she hopes it will
still remain a place that the local townspeople feel
comfortable to come, shop, and talk.
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