AudgePodge

  CORVALLIS – Walking downtown Corvallis always has its charm, especially when stopping in on local businesses. Many stop to gaze at the historical Whiteside Theater , to buy a book in Grass Roots , or to try some decadent coffee at Coffee Culture . But searching for that “groovy” record store is always a struggle. A couple of stores away, nestled at the corner of Monroe and 3rd Street, is Happy Trails Records ; Corvallis’ grooviest record store. The moment you step through their door, you are struck with a serene—yet boisterous—energy, one that makes you feel like dancing. The store is small, yet lined strategically with a variety of records and CDs alike, new and used. Music plays from above…and varies; anything from hard rock to rhythmic funk. Memorabilia, posters, and action figures are also splayed around the perimeter for sale. A sign behind the counter reads: “Beware of Doug.” Who is Doug? At the heart and soul of Happy Trails (specifically, on weekday mornings) is Doug DiC...