Our Town Life: January 15, 2019

Something To Think About

Something Fun

Pick up your Pickleball paddle

Vol. 16 No. 2

Silvertowne residents, management struggle with processes – Page 4

– Page 10

COMMUNITY NEWS

Serving Mt. Angel, Silverton and Scotts Mills

January 2019

Robotics team scores big wins – Page 13

Our Town P.O. Box 927 Mt. Angel, Or 97362

POSTAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND, OR PERMIT NO. 854

Sports & Recreation

SHS wrestlers face tough competition – Page 12

Quality Dental Care in a Friendly Environment

Serving the Willamette Valley for All Your Real Estate Needs

RESIDENTIAL $1.3M NEW LISTING! 120.06 Acre Victor Point Farm ~ 3bd/2ba ~ 1512 SF ~ Silverton Joe & Dana Giegerich •503-931-7824• MLS#742831 $565,000 NEW LISTING! 4bd/3ba ~ 2280 SF ~ 3.51 Acres ~ Molalla Donna Paradis •503-851-0998• MLS#742949 $475,000 NEW LISTING! 4bd/2.5ba ~ 2756 SF ~ 1.14 Acres Comm/Retail zone ~ Woodburn Joe & Dana Giegerich •503-931-7824• MLS#739309 $349,900 PRICE REDUCED! 4bd/2ba ~ 1920 SF ~ .18 ac ~ Mt Angel Korinna Barcroft •503-851-1283• MLS#740377 $915,000 Luxurious Dual-Living!

4bd/3.5ba ~ 4890 SF ~ 2 Acres ~ Silverton Robin Kuhn •503-930-1896• MLS#740939

$319,000 Master on Main!

4bd/2.5ba ~ 1477 SF ~ .13 ac ~ Mt Angel Rosie Wilgus •503-4098779• MLS#741249

LAND & LOTS

Mark A. Haskell, D.D.S.

303 N. First • Silverton 503-873-8614

$46,000 Wooded Wonderland! .18 acre lot close to shopping! ~ Detroit Korinna Barcroft •503-851-1283• MLS#736782

COMMERCIAL

Yessss ...

Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce & Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce

VISITOR’S GUIDE & Community Profile

• Rich full color pages packed with local beauty

• Distributed by direct mail to every household in Silverton, Mt. Angel and Scotts Mills

$439,900 Choose the Colors!

3bd/2.5ba ~ 2001 SF ~ .16 ac ~ Silverton Robin Kuhn •503-930-1896• MLS#736654

• Available at visitor centers around the region!

• Also available online via Local Owner Brokers Licensed in Oregon

119 N. WATER ST., SILVERTON, OR Give us a Call at 503-873-8600 or Visit nworg.com for more information 2 • January 2019

Matthew B. Chase, D.M.D.

$122K-$124K Take Your Pick! 14 lots Pioneer Village Phase 4 ~ .16 ac - .12 ac ~ Silverton Robin Kuhn •503-930-1896• MLS#740832/740834-740845/740990

$495,000 What a FIND! Comm. Shop on .51 acres ~ bonus! 2bd/1ba home w/ office ~ Hubbard Nick Ayhan •503-3141651• MLS#738136

New patients welcome

Fillin gs • Cro w n s • Ro o t C a n a ls Im pla n ts • E xt ra c t io n s • D en t u res

$240K Each! Only 4 Estate Lots Left! from 5 Acres to 6.77 Acres ~ Silverton Joe & Dana Giegerich •503-931-7824• MLS#738386/738462/ 738463/738468

$645,000 Impressive Spaces!

5bd/5ba ~ 5200 SF ~ 10.53 Acres ~ Silverton Valerie Boen & Dean Oster •503-871-1667• MLS#742049

$429,900 Be the 1st Owner!

3bd/2.5ba ~ 1770 SF ~ .16 ac ~ Silverton Robin Kuhn •503-930-1896• MLS#736657

C o m p l e t e Dental S ervi ces

Contact Jim Kinghorn jim.k@mtangelpub.com

503-845-9499

Produced & Published by

Mt. Angel Publishing, Inc.

ourtownlive.com

Our Town Life

January 2019 Closed Jan. 21 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

SILVERTON SENIOR CENTER 115 Westfield Street • Silverton • 503-873-3093

10

© ROBERT HILLS / 123RF.COM

Something to Think About

Something Fun

Silvertowne...............................4

Pickleball comes to Silverton.....10

Something to Celebrate

First borns in Silverton, 2019......6 First Citizen awards announced..6

Sports & Recreation

Something to Talk About

School Scrapbook

Family stories recorded..............7 Crier delivers MLK Day talk........7 Civics 101

School districts score high makrs..8

Silverton wrestlers power on.....12 Mt. Angel robotics on a roll........13 Marketplace....................13 People Out Loud.............14 On the Cover

The award winning VEX IQ Robotics team at Mt. Angel Middle School.

MELISSA WAGONER

Our Town

Paula Mabry Editor & Publisher

Elyse McGowan-Kidd Graphic Artist

Jim Kinghorn Advertising Director

Steve Beckner Custom Design

DeeDe Williams Office Manager

Tavis Bettoli-Lotten Copy Editor

P.O. Box 927 Mount Angel, OR 97362 401 Oak St. Silverton, OR 97381 503-845-9499 ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com

ourtownlive.com Our Town mailed free to residents and businesses in the 97362, 97375, 97381 zip codes. Subscriptions for outside this area are available for $48 annually.

The deadline for placing an ad in the Feb. 1 issue is Jan. 22.

Contributing Artists, Editors, Writers, Photographers Dixon Bledsoe • James Day • Vern Holmquist • Nancy Jennings Sara Morgan • Steve Ritchie • Carl Sampson Melissa Wagoner Katie Bassett Greeter

Our Town Life

Thank you for spending time with Our Town.

Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! NEW things are always happening at the Silverton Senior Center and 2019 is no exception….New faces and new programs…

New Board Members: Darlene Blackstone-President, Otto Stadeli-Vice President, Connie Barkley-Secretary, Larry Ferguson- Treasurer, Rose Hope, Irveta Johnson, Jim Engeman, Bob Foster, and Dave Marinos.

Board elections for 2019 NEW Board of Directors will coming up in March/April, so if you are interested, have any questions or want to get more involved in the Silverton Senior Center, then let us know! It is also that time of year again: membership renewal or to become a new member is only $30 for everyone over 50 and only $15 for Veterans over 50. What a sweet deal! Thank you to Melissa Wagoner for the wonderful article in Our Town. We’d like to clarify that the Silverton Senior Center actually gets 800-1,000 visitors a MONTH as opposed to a year. Stop by and see what everyone is coming in for.

NEW PROGRAMS “in the works”

Computer & Smart Phone Classes starting in April. An list has been started to gather names of those interested in learning more about Smart Phones & Computers. New topics for the Lunch & Learn Series on Fridays at 12:00 / noon with New free lunch options available. Check out the Web Site for more information or call 503-873-3093. New workshop being offered is “Writing my beautiful life story” with Zoe Morrison. A great way to save your special memories that are photos. Check it out on Thur. Jan. 24 from 2 – 4 pm.

New day added for Massages with Bill Clubb of Clubb Massage: Tuesdays & Thursdays. Call for appt: 503-873-3093 NEW date & time for the monthly Pancake Breakfast!

Sun. Jan. 27 from 8 am to 1:30 pm, so you can come enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs & sausages before or after Church. ONLY $5 for everyone and kiddos under 7 are FREE! Public Welcome!

Life Line Screenings are scheduled for February 11. Sign up in advance. See the Face Book Page Events for more information.

FROM ALL OF US AT THE SILVERTON SENIOR CENTER TO ALL OF YOU: HAPPY 2019!

Be sure to LIKE the SILVERTON SENIOR Silverton Senior Center CENTER’S THRIFT SHOP on Facebook, 207 High St. where monthly Open Tues – Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. events are listed and be sure * = FREE for members, $2 for nonmembers 50+. to check out our website

Nonmembers still need to be 50+ unless otherwise stated.

www.silvertonseniorcenter.org

ourtownlive.com

January 2019 • 3

Something to Think About

Nothing’s easy

By Brenna Wiegand Frustrated in their dealings with management, in July some Silvertowne I and II apartment residents formed a tenants association, looking to increase their effectiveness in dealing with Integrated Supports for Living, the nonprofit organization that took over the affordable housing complexes in Silverton four years ago.

The tenants’ grievances included unfair eviction notices, unsafe conditions, insufficient response to requests and harassment.

“Up until two years ago, this was for me a very happy place,” Lynn Hancock, 82, said. Then she received an eviction notice for not paying rent. Hancock said after the onsite manager found her check in a stack of mail she got another eviction notice saying she’d paid the wrong amount, which proved not to be the case.

“80 years old and my first notice ever,” Hancock said. “I am rarely angry; my life has been long enough with enough trials I can usually find amusement in almost anything, but not this. I haven’t been that angry since I was divorced 40 years ago.”

Another tenant, who requested anonymity, claims management ignored her reports of a tenant that harassed her for six years before he left. Twice, she said, the manager did not complete her subsidy recertification on time because she had mislaid the paperwork, forcing her to pay full, unsubsidized rent for a time.

She has received three eviction notices she says were for being hostile toward management; antagonizing the tenant she was complaining about; and in response to a letter she wrote to IS Living’s board president.

“I had so little recourse and such limited funds for hiring attorneys,” she said. “…it was a living nightmare.”

Tenants and IS Living CEO Chrislyn Prantl agree that many of the problems at Silvertowne I and II stem from a turnover of onsite managers who proved unequipped for the job. Current manager Tara West is its fourth manager in five years, and many of the blunders occurred under a predecessor who was there for a year spanning 2017 and 2018.

“That manager did some things against our privacy issues such as posting recertification notices with people’s

4 • January 2019

Silvertowne tenants, management struggle with processes

security numbers on them,” tenant Diane Stone said. “We didn’t feel confident even going to the office for stuff and we didn’t ask for anything that we were not supposed to have. I’m going on my eighth year here and I’ve never experienced that before.”

Aba Gayle, resident and former IS Living board member, said it was an unfortunate situation.

“She was one of those persons who was universally despised; there wasn’t going to be anything she did that was right because she was inept and just didn’t recognize the kinds of people that live here,” Gayle said.

When the award was announced, Prantl said funds will be used to pay for new roofs and siding, insulation, doors, trim, gutters, flooring, cabinetry, sinks, bath and kitchen counters, and some appliances, as well as accessibility features for units reserved for residents with disabilities. Upgrades to the grounds, including new landscaping, repaving the roads and parking lots, re-grading slopes and repairing drainage systems and replacing sidewalks are also on the list for both properties along with meeting up-to-date ADA standards.

IS Living also plans to combine Silvertowne I and II into one entity and add a centrally located leasing office/

“I had so little recourse and such limited funds for hiring attorneys... It was a living nightmare.”

– Silvertowne tenant “This position as a manager is so difficult; you’re managing people and then you’re managing compliance,” IS Living CEO Chrislyn Prantl said. “Having Rural Development as our mortgage holder comes with rules and compliance, and compliance for Rural Development is very complicated. Rural Development doesn’t provide a minute of training; we spend about $1,500 a year on training with Oregon Affordable Housing Management Association alone. We do Fair Housing training at least once a year if not twice, and recently we’ve done a lot more because we’ve had turnover.”

Last year IS Living got the green light on $9.7 million in new funds to pay for remodeling and needed repairs as well as preserve affordability for residents. About $2.7 will come from Oregon Housing and Community Services and the remainder from investors through Oregon Housing Finance Agency’s low income housing tax credit program.

“It could be an organization required to perform a certain amount of community support and this satisfies that for them,” Prantl said. “Our 9 percent tax credit is very competitive; investors are practically beating down the door to get to us.”

The project is expected to commence in June and span two years.

maintenance building.

Even with a new manager and rehab funds on the way, some residents remain leery of IS Living, fearing that when they’re moved out for the repairs they won’t be able to return, primarily because of an increase in rent.

“That will never happen,” Prantl said.

“Rents will go up. We haven’t had an increase since 2016; that was 5 percent and as of this month we had an increase of about 9 percent; I expect there will be a rise of less than 10 percent in 2020.

“For the residents with Rental Assistance nothing changes because their rent is based on their income. Basic rent is hugely subsidized already; a one-bedroom apartment in Silvertowne I is $501 and in Silvertowne II, $553.

“We have to maintain our current leases in order to be qualified; we don’t want anybody moving out,” Prantl said. “The way that $9.7 million works is there’s $400,000-plus in there for the relocation program during construction and we are working with a company that’s going to customize that plan.”

“The first tenant meeting started out being nothing but people complaining about things that had happened in the past – it’s over, it’s done,” Gayle said. “I am perfectly willing to go and

ourtownlive.com

give workshops and help people to do anything. I’m not willing to be part of a group that is negative, negative, negative.”

Stone said the association has evolved into a group aimed at providing help and information to the tenants. She and Kay Strobel act as advocates for the residents of Silvertowne II; Silvertowne I has two of its own resident advocates.

“I feel very blessed to be here in this type of housing with the assistance we have,” Stone said. “We have a great grapevine here and we look out for each other, but rumors will get going, and if people have an issue and are uncomfortable with going to management they can come to us.

We are trying to get more participation but a lot of people either have physical problems or other obligations.”

“I’m not a cuddly reassurance kind of person; I’m out there trying to get money (for maintenance and subsidies), so we welcome tenant association as a good medium to disseminate information,” Prantl said.

Stone says things are improving, even though for now a band-aid approach seems to be the answer to many of Silvertowne’s maintenance woes.

“They marked the sidewalks where the hazards are but with the leaves covering the sidewalks we can’t see them,” tenant Shahoni Moseley said. “Another issue is inadequate lighting; there are a lot of tree limbs that are over the lights and they’re blocking out the light at night so we can’t see.

“In 2016 I came home from vacation to an eviction notice on my door,” Moseley added. “They claimed they didn’t get my check but had to drop it because the bank printed out a statement showing it was issued. They lost my checks twice.

“I’ll be 75 in another month,” Moseley said. “I’m tired of being threatened and intimidated. They gave out blanket notices about patios and not everyone’s patios are in the kind of shape that they’re talking about. And they also gave out blanket notices about cats.”

Prantl said the eviction process is always aimed at preserving tenancy rather than removing tenants, as turnover is more expensive.

“When a lease violation interferes with other residents’ peaceful enjoyment, staff’s ability to perform their duties or

Our Town Life

eligibility, we issue a Notice of Eviction that spells out exactly what the tenant is expected to do within a 14-day period to avoid eviction,” Prantl said.

“There are a handful of people who are unhappy with me and it’s because I’m holding them to the terms of their lease. And they’re things that are close to peoples’ hearts, like their animals, and if they don’t follow the rules, there’s nothing I can do.”

Tenants’ association members say little or nothing was done about maintenance complaints such as unsafe sidewalks, flooding of a parking lot and laundry room and a lack of hot water in a laundry facility. In late fall two tenants approached the City of Silverton, which sent out Building Official Daryl Jones in November.

The inspection revealed several municipal code violations. New roofs were being installed at Silvertowne II. Management was planning to wait until the major construction project to replace gutters, Jones said. Due to heavy rains the result

“It’s crazy that we’re allowed to live here at the rents we pay, and if anything goes wrong I just fill out a form and it’s taken care of...”

Also cited were windows difficult to operate, doors that wouldn’t seal and units infested with sugar ants. Jones also found water heaters with broken anti-scald valves and other plumbing-related issues.

He said the city will be following up with IS Living in regard to items that need to be addressed immediately and those that can wait for the major remodel.

“We are inspected all the time; Rural Development is especially tough on us because they’re the mortgage holder giving us a 1 percent interest rate,” Prantl said. “We’ve been in deferred

IS Living was formed in 2015 when Oregon Housing & Associated Services (w), which built Silvertowne I and II for low income elderly and disabled people, merged with Spruce Villa, whose mission was to serve the mentally handicapped.

At the time, 44 of Silvertowne’s 86 units came with Rental Assistance. Last year it was awarded another ten.

“RA is a huge boon for people; it’s an

“I love living here,” Gayle added. “When I move out it’s going to be because I can’t take care of myself anymore. It’s wonderful, independent living.”

Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB#206570 Interior & Exterior Remodeling Carpentry • Siding • Decks • Roof Repairs Landscaping • Retaining Walls • Yard Clean-up Gutter Cleaning • Pressure Washing

Purchase • Refinance USDA/FHA/VA • Manufactured Homes Office: 503-873-0603 Cell: 503-851-3880 jbersin@guildmortgage.net

Florentino Gaspar (503) 509-9093 1134 Madison St. Silver ton silverstoneremodeling@gmail.com

300 N. Water Street • Silverton, OR 97381 OR ML-176

Visit our Lottery Parlor!

the pub

A worlđ A taste of Canada will be class experience in small January 19 at 5pm, please make town atmosphere. reservations for this 4 course meal!

Come and experience fine dining and old world charm in downtown Mt. Angel in the Charles • Willamette Mt. Angel • 503-845-6222 • glockenspielrestaurant.net heart St. of the Valley.

We are proud to feature an extensive wine list from Oregon Sun. - Thur. 11am-8pm • Fri. & Sat. 11am-9pm and around the world. Watch for our special upcoming wine and dine events.

Our Town Life

Alpaca Valentine Kisses • Tastings by Bernard C Chocolate & Local Wineries

• Check out our clothing sale and website for more info: www.mhralpacas.com 35835 S. HWY 213, MOLALLA | 503-407-3699

ourtownlive.com

503-845-6222

“The sidewalks should have been taken care of some time ago; that’s pretty much between the CEO and the onsite manager,” Gayle said. “We had a very bad manager for a year and she’s gone now.

I think the new manager will be fine.

property maintenance, llc

NMLS#776184 OR ML-176

190 E.

maintenance for years which has kept us out of some grants. There are funds available to manage any health and safety issues but we think we’ve got health and safety already taken care of; that’s our highest priority.”

“Chrislyn and the board want this place to be available,” Gayle said. “It’s crazy that we’re allowed to live here at the rents we pay, and if anything goes wrong I just fill out a form and it’s taken care of.

They’ve done so much for us; we had all new heating and cooling systems put in last year; my winter electric bill went from almost $90 down to $34. We also got new refrigerators.

silverstone

Home Loan Specialist

restaurant

– Aba Gayle, tenant

was standing water on several entryways and patios and some units had water entering under the threshold.

Julie Bersin

Company NMLS#3274

amazing thing, but if they leave it stays with the property,” Prantl said. “I am asking Rural Development to give us 100 percent RA (units) and I’m never letting up.”

www.glockenspielrestaurant.net

January 2019 • 5

Something to Celebrate

Fresh faces

Meet Legacy Silverton’s first boy, girl born in 2019

By Melissa Wagoner Proud parents, Maria Rios Najar and Osualdo Rios Diaz, exude excitement as they peer down into the tiny face of their new son, Adriel, who made his appearance on New Year’s Day at 5:07 p.m. – the first baby boy born at Legacy Silverton Medical Center in 2019.

“We have been waiting for him a lot of years,” Najar said. “It’s a miracle. How can something so beautiful be ours?”

The couple, who has been married 18 years, have been trying for a successful pregnancy for 16, but the road has not always been smooth.

“In the beginning the doctor tried to find the heartbeat but he couldn’t find it,” Diaz recalled. “We were crying because we thought it was going to happen again.”

The doctor, suspecting either an ectopic pregnancy or else that the baby was younger than they had originally calculated, sent the pair to the hospital for an ultrasound where the heartbeat became immediately clear.

“They found it right away,” Najar said happily.

The couple decided to name their baby Adriel because, as Najar explained, in Spanish the name means her son will be a hard worker and less susceptible to negative influences.

“I feel it’s unreal,” Najar described, tenderly holding her seven-pound, seven-ounce bundle. “I feel it’s a dream. It’s so exciting for us.”

Although the couple is from Independence, Oregon, they travelled to Silverton because Najar’s medical

Eliz Valentina is the first 2019 baby girl born at Legacy Silverton, on Jan. 3. MELISSA WAGONER

provider has an office nearby and because they have been so happy with the care they have previously received at the hospital.

“I think this is the best hospital ever,” she said. “And my doctor – I really like him, too.”

Although Diaz will be returning to work after a two week paternity leave, Najar is considering staying at home to care for Adriel full-time.

“This is a miracle and we want to take care of that miracle,” she said.

Also hailing from Independence are Glydes Luna and Pedro Vargas, who became the lucky parents of Eliz Valentina, the first baby girl of 2019 born at Legacy Silverton on Jan. 3 at 3:41 p.m.

“We were very surprised when they told us she was the first of the year,” Vargas

Maria Rios Najar and Osualdo Rios Diaz with their new son, Adriel Rios Najar, the first baby boy born in 2019 on Jan. 1 at Legacy Silverton. MELISSA WAGONER

laughed, cradling his eight-pound, twoounce daughter.

excited about this new introduction into their family.

Parents to two older children – Ethan, five, and Ixabella, three – the couple are

“She’s the last for us,” Vargas said. “And we’re happy it was here.”

Stacy and Kevin Palmer named Silverton First Citizens for 2018 Stacy and Kevin Palmer will be honored at Silverton’s 2018 First Citizens at the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce 48th annual First Citizen Banquet on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Mount Angel Festhalle, 500 Wilco Hwy NE. Themed “Hitting it out of the park!” the banquet is a time to recognize citizens and businesses for their efforts in improving the community.

Stacy Palmer is the executive director of the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce. Kevin Palmer is a longtime educator and administrator in the Silver Falls

6 • January 2019

School District.

Other honorees will include: Distinguished Service - Sarah White Business of the Year - Bledsoe Santana Team Realty Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement - Elmer Valkenaar

The evening will also included recognition of the a Future First Citizen, which includes the Jack Berger Memorial Scholarship.

ourtownlive.com

In addition, representatives from Silver Falls School District will recognize their top educators and many of Silverton’s service organizations will be on hand to recognize one or more of their outstanding members.

For ticket information contact the chamber at 503873-5615 or drop by the office at 426 S Water St, next door to the Silver Falls Public Library and across from the Silverton Community Center.

Profiles of the winners will appear in the Feb. 1 edition of Our Town.

Our Town Life

Something to Talk About

Storytelling

Duo uses video to record memories for posterity

By Melissa Wagoner Zach Esperanza has witnessed a lot of goodbyes during his tenure as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, most of them involving distraught family members unwilling to let their loved one go – a situation he wishes he could remedy.

Michael Turner and Zach Esperanza, owners of Pass It On Productions.

MELISSA WAGONER

“I asked myself – how could I get myself and my family to grieve in a healthy way?”

Esperanza said. “The only thing I came up with was to do a full interview.”

“I wanted to film my grandma from start to finish – from birth to illness and even beyond that,” Esperanza said. “Luckily, I live with a guy who does documentaries.”

Esperanza, his wife Allie, and their twoyear-old son Atlas moved to Scotts Mills from Portland two years ago to raise their son in a more rural environment. They currently share property with independent documentary producer Mike Turner, his wife Alyssa Burge and their two-year-old daughter Osa. Turner and Esperanza traveled to Irvin’s home in Warrenton, Oregon where they spent more than three hours recording her reflecting on parenthood and past relationships, and relating memories she

310-874-9011 www.passitonproductions.com

new company they are calling Pass it On Productions in which the duo interview clients, of any age, creating a professional oral history that can be passed down.

So when Esperanza’s own grandmother, Shirley Irvin, was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer in 2018 he knew he wanted their imminent and final farewell to be a peaceful and memorable one.

Esperanza hypothesized that by creating a video documentary detailing his grandmother’s life, he could both create a space for the two of them to say their final farewells and also produce a memento that his entire family would cherish.

Pass it On Productions

had never told anyone before.

“It was interesting as an interviewer to hear her be that honest with me,” Esperanza said. “It was really cool. After the first couple of questions she wasn’t there anymore, she was in downtown Warrenton in the first-ever post office.”

Although Esperanza was initially surprised by how comfortable his grandmother became in front of the camera, Turner was less so, given his experience.

“What’s so cool about the medium of film is sometimes people think the camera makes people shy but in my experience the camera allows people to ask questions they wouldn’t normally ask,” he explained.

For Irvin, the interview took place at a crucial time because in less than two weeks after the recording she was placed in hospice and passed away a week later.

“That’s when I felt like the lightbulb

really went on,” Esperanza said. “We realized, ‘Oh my God, this footage that we have of this individual you can never recreate. We should probably offer this to other people.”

Turner readily agreed because he, too, is in possession of a similar reminder of his own grandmother and also appreciates the value such a memento holds.

“My grandma, a survivor of Auschwitz, was interviewed in the ‘90s by the Shoah Foundation, and asked not just about her experiences during the war but about her childhood, and immigrating to America as a 17-year-old orphan,” Turner said. “All questions that I was too young to ask while she was alive, and I only learned her story after her death.

I consider her interview the most precious thing I own.”

What came next for Turner and Esperanza was the rapid development of a

“I love making films and documentary films and these are such a meaningful cross-section between those things,” Turner said. “And to have Zach, who’s such an intuitive interviewer and conversationalist, it allows me to focus on the subtleties. It’s nice to be able to focus on the aesthetic part of it. That’s why the two-person setup is so nice.”

Esperanza, for his part, although a novice to production, is actually quite practiced at conducting interviews due to his work as a nurse and that comes in handy when he is questioning clients about potentially private and delicate subjects.

“They all come in their most vulnerable and raw moments but they still trust me,” Esperanza said of his ER patients. “This feels like an extension of that. It’s such an honor.”

Although Pass it On Productions is a relatively new venture, a list of clients is already forming along with ideas about future community story-telling events that they hope to hold.

“I really believe that stories are the most precious thing we have,” Turner said. “[T]his could be a special thing for the community.”

Shelaswau Bushnell Crier to give keynote at King observance Shelaswau Bushnell Crier will give the keynote address following a community potluck in celebration of Dr, Martin Luther King Day at the Silverton Grange on Monday, Jan. 21.

Co-sponsored by Silverton People For Peace and the Silverton Grange, the event is open to all. Doors open 5:30 p.m., potluck at 6, S201 S. Division, off of S. Water.

Lawyer, former law professor and middle school math teacher, and community activist, Crier has always been passionate about education. That passion took her to

Our Town Life

Rice University and to Yale Law School. At Yale, Crier says, December 2016, and at the first Salem Women’s March the students were more about “How can we change the in January 2017. She will speak again at the 2019 Salem world?” Crier serves as vice-president of the Salem-Keizer Women’s March, Jan. 19.

NCAAP, and on state advisory committees.

Crier’s Keynote Address for the King Observance is A consultant to the Oregon Department of Education “Forging Common Values for Uncommon Times.” and a police academy legal instructor, Crier remains The observance will start with a social and a Southernpassionate about quality and meaningful education, style potluck featuring some of Dr. Martin Luther King’s emphasizing that what and how students learn is more favorite dishes, and include sing-a-longs and readings. important than just test results.

For information about the event call 503-873-5307 or She spoke at The Peaceful Gathering of Women in email robertjsisk@yahoo.com.

ourtownlive.com

January 2019 • 7

Civics 101

Good marks

By Brenna Wiegand Neighboring Silver Falls and Mt. Angel school districts received exceptional rankings in Niche.com’s 2019 Best School Districts in Oregon.

Out of 198 school districts in Oregon, Silver Falls ranked 7th and Mt. Angel 19th by the Pittsburgh-based data, ranking and review site for K-12 schools, colleges and neighborhoods around the country.

“You look at what goes into their rankings and it’s a very holistic view,” Silver Falls School District Communications Coordinator Derek McElfresh said.

“It really means a lot to know that across a very wide set of criteria that’s the kind of district we have.”

He attributes the stellar ranking to the district’s consistency and persistence in school improvement in general and a penchant to serve each and every student in every one of its 13 schools spread over 250 square miles. In total the district has

Silver Falls, Mt. Angel rank high in Best School District results 3,838 students with a student-teacher ratio of 20:1.

“The neat thing is that the district as a whole received this high rating and that just reflects on the quality of the staff and the amount of work and time and effort they put in,” McElfresh said. “We’re happy when we see these kinds of results but we’re more focused on ‘What’s the next thing?’ Every meeting I’ve been to it’s about how we can be better; we are seeing the result of a lot of very passionate people who really want to do what is best for our students.”

He said all district decisions and responses to problems are weighed against whether it will move the district closer to its vision of a 100 percent graduation rate.

“We are hovering so close to that 90 percent graduation rate and when you look at the past five years it’s even higher,” McElfresh said. “Our minority students; our economically disadvantaged students and those with disabilities; our migrant families; all of our subgroups perform above the state average every

year,” he said, adding that much of the groundwork in this regard is owed to the excellent programs at the elementary school level.

This year, in response to a known need, Silver Falls significantly extended its counseling program; now each school has an assigned counselor.

“Mental health is very important to everybody,” McElfresh said.

Mt. Angel School District is composed of 708 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1. It is nestled in a small, tight-knit community that puts a lot of emphasis on involvement and volunteerism.

“We have a really strong community base of supporters for just about anything and we try to help; for instance, releasing kids to help set up for Oktoberfest,” Stoops said.

“We’re not a union district which has given us some flexibility. Our staff is really happy at where they’re at and we like to think that we have a relationship with every kid; that we know every kid

BUTTE CREEK COMPUTER SERVICE

Kindergartner Silas Kuenzi, left, and first grader Kyler Nuttman of Evergreen School dissect a squid in their science studies last fall.

COURTESY SILVER FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

individually; that’s our goal anyway.

“One of the indicators in our strategic plan is that all students participate in at least one school or community activity per year,” Stoops said. “Our goal is that by 2022, 100 percent of our kids in all three

Donna ParaDis BroKEr

Licensed in Oregon

REPAIR & VIRUS REMOVAL LLC

My Pledge:

Listen, Communicate, Do the Best for My Clients.

Commercial/Residential

Honest • Friendly • Local

209 E.Main ST.

503-851-0998

SILVERTON, OR 97381

www.DonnaParadisRealtor.com

503-877-3130

email: donna@nworg.com

BUTTECREEKCOMPUTERREPAIR@GMAIL.COM

BUTTECREEKCOMPUTER.COM

Have a home to rent? Call us!

We specialize in Residential Properties.

HOURS: MON-FRI 8-6 • SAT 8-5 911 N. 1ST ST. • SILVERTON

503-873-2966

Tread design may vary. Your size in stock. Call for size & price

8 • January 2019

119 N. Water St. Silverton

Have a home to rent? Call us!

Vivian Caldwell

WWW.LESSCHWAB.COM

503-873-7069 Property Manager yourhomepm@gmail.com

ourtownlive.com

www.yourhomepm.com

Our Town Life

Determination) program, a nonprofit organization that provides professional learning for educators to improve college readiness for all students.

“It’s proven to be real effective at helping kids find their way through high school and beyond,” Stoops said. “We focus on that throughout the district.”

Mt. Angel also puts a lot of emphasis on Career & Technical Education programs and getting kids involved in workplace experiences.

Kennedy High School students Makayla Massey, Allison Gust, Lily English, and Adriana Cortes are four of the students from JFK’s AVID 12 college preparation class who have been accepted to Western Oregon University. COURTESY MT. ANGEL SCHOOL DISTRICT

buildings are participating, and we’re definitely on track.”

The district implements the AVID (Advancement Via Individual

“…and then of course our sports programs have been really strong the last few years and seem to have a good strong future which is always a great culture builder,” Stoops said. “For the last three years our athletic programs have earned the OSAA Cup that takes into account sportsmanship, athletics and academic performance; that’s a pretty big accomplishment.”

Like Silver Falls, the Mt. Angel district is making a concerted effort to address the social-emotional side of learning and

in the past year the entire staff attended QPR (Question, Persuade and Refer) suicide prevention training.

“We need to develop good, positive relationships with all our kids and to be able to recognize when they are in distress or in need and have the tools needed to intervene or refer them to the appropriate services,” Stoops said. “Public schools have become some of our largest social services.”

Stoops says a school district is not measured by test scores alone and appreciates that this survey takes into consideration the many other areas that make up its effectiveness.

Using algorithms and statistical techniques, Niche analyzes an array of factors that includes test scores, graduation rates, college readiness, student life data from the US Department of Education, and online feedback from Niche users; primarily students, alumni and staff.

“Keeping Basements & Crawl Spaces Dry & Healthy Since 1974”

We’re the leader in the industry and the best at what we do.

We pride ourselves on being a local employer and our goal is to educate homeowners and building professionals as well as supporting our community.

Call today to see how we can help you!

503-873-5650

201 Airport Rd NE • Silverton www.JohnsWaterproofing.com Our Town Life

Dr. Tim Richardson • 503-874-4560 411 N Water St • Silverton All Insurance and OHP Accepted

ourtownlive.com

January 2019 • 9

Something Fun

Ready, set, pickleball!

By Nancy Jennings

A fun way to beat the winter doldrums can be found at Silverton’s YMCA. “Pickleball,” a sport with an odd name and originating from the Pacific Northwest, has found its way from larger cities to Oregon’s Garden City.

Think of it as a kinder, gentler tennis game. Introduced on Dec. 27 at the Community Center, the paddle sport combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton – and uses a badmintonsized court and modified tennis net.

However, scoring is not like tennis.

The first team to reach 11 points (by two points) wins. Invented in the mid1960s as a children’s backyard pastime, it was first played officially in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Washington.

While its true origin is open for debate, entertaining theories abound.

“One story tells of a few men sitting outside with some bored children. They

Multi-generational sport free through Jan. 31

couldn’t find a complete badminton set, but they had wiffle balls,” explained Poppy Shell, who along with her husband, David (and a few others), generated enough interest to bring the sport to Silverton.

She continued to say the men who found themselves inventing the game out of necessity, carved out “composite paddles that were the same weight as ping pong paddles, only a bit larger.”

Another story references the game being named after a dog named “Pickle.” Yet another mentions the name evolved from a “pickle boat,” a term referring to a boat of “leftover” rowers.

Games are comprised of two teams – and can be played as singles or doubles.

The court is half of the size of a tennis court, which makes the volleying action less strenuous. This makes it a multigenerational sport where all age groups can play together. Another benefit… it encourages players to socialize as they

Poppy and David Shell initiated the pickleball games at the Silverton Community Center.

NANCY JENNINGS

sit in chairs waiting for their rotation to the court.

“What we’ve noticed is that the good players are very gracious, and CCB #14854

Brokers licensed in the state of Oregon.

JENNA

Simply the BEST!

BRITTNEY

Congratulations to the Bledsoe Santana Team for being selected as the:

Building homes since 1975

JACKSON URIEL

MAR Y

NAOMI

503.873.1178 • 503.931.5814

MELISSA SHELDON

ANGELA RON BETTIE & AA

Steven R. Herr – Certified Master Builder

JOEL

JOLENE

Custom Homes & Remodeling General Contracting

DIXO N

2018 Silverton Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR LISA

W W W. BLE D SOE SAN TAN ATE A M . CO M Silverton • 206 Oak St • 503-874-4666 Woodburn • 1310 Meridian Drive • Unit 2-B • 503-446-5411 10 • January 2019

ourtownlive.com

Our Town Life

enjoy teaching and giving tips to the beginners,” David said. Poppy recalled watching a man with Parkinson’s disease play with relative ease. His tremors seemed to virtually disappear while he was engaged.

The local couple, who have five children and 11 grandchildren, moved from Silverton to Kauai, Hawaii, in 1992 and stayed for 23 years. At that time, David was a building contractor and rebuilt hurricane-damaged homes. Poppy was the head costumer for all the theater groups on the island.

“We got involved in pickleball when we lived there – it was everywhere,” she said. They returned to Silverton in 2015 and are thrilled the sport finally followed them back to their now-permanent neck of the woods.

“We’re really excited this is happening. I found out from our granddaughter that the kids have played it at school.”

And interest is spreading. Silverton’s Senior Center is hoping to establish the game at their facility to foster more grandparent/grandchild interaction.

“Right now we don’t have the space, but it’s something to consider,” said Executive Director Dodie Brockamp.

“We haven’t talked to the City yet, but we’re looking at our future. I do think it’s a great activity for the community.”

Brandon Lemon, vice president of sports and aquatics for Family YMCA of Marion and Polk Counties, is happy to add a new sport to the program.

“Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America. It is a very social game and you can choose to be as competitive or recreational as you want,” he said. “It’s also great that you can play it inside or outside, so the weather doesn’t have an impact.”

Brandon added that on the first day, Dec. 27, 24 participants showed up,

which included some players from Salem who helped set up.

“It was an amazing turnout. We have two courts going at the same time to make room for that big of a group.

If it continues to grow, we’ll look at having multiple times to play – not just Thursday mornings.”

The YMCA will provide paddles, wiffle balls and nets. Players are encouraged to wear comfortable layered clothing and “gym-friendly” shoes with rubber soles.

Thursday morning games from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. will be free through Jan. 31.

Starting Feb. 1, a $3 fee will be charged for drop-ins and non-members. YMCA and Silverton Senior Center members are free.

For more information, contact the Silver Falls Family YMCA, 601 Miller St., Silverton. 503-873-6456. www.theyonline.org

Public workshop on Eugene Field site scheduled for Jan. 31 The City of Silverton is conducting an outreach and planning effort to determine the potential future uses of the Eugene Field site in downtown Silverton.

Consultants plan to lead an interactive community discussion, eliciting community input on such topics as community values, existing physical conditions, redevelopment issues and future vision for the Eugene Field site and design.

Everyone interested is welcome to attend the next workshop, scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 31, 6 p.m. at Silverton High School in the cafeteria, 1456 Pine St.

You Need, For Anything You Need To Do.

Everything You Need, For Anything You Need To Do.

a’s full line of hardworking equipment has a proven reputation high-quality engineering, versatility, power and reliability.

Kubota’s full line of hardworking equipment has a proven reputation for high-quality engineering, versatility, power and reliability.

L Series

Grand L Series RTV-X Series

SSV Series L Series

Grand L Series

SSV Series

33599 HWY 99E • TANGENT, OR 97389 • 541-926-1811• WWW.LINNBENTONTRACTOR.COM KubotaUSA.com

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018

Our Town Life

ourtownlive.com

January 2019 • 11

Sports & Recreation

Wrestling standouts

Foxes have strong core, tough competition

The Silverton High wrestling team features some solid veterans who likely will be major players during district and state competition.

“We have some upperclassman who have been stepping up and consistently winning,” coach Keegan Davis told Our Town. “Matthew Guenther has been having a great deal of success on the mat and in the practice room. Nathan Kuenzi has also been having a lot of success in competitions, demonstrating to the team what hard work can accomplish.

Kaden Kuenzi recently won two major tournaments, Rose City and the Gut Check beating a 3-time national champ in the finals.”

Kaden Kuenzi won a state Class 5A title as a freshman and was runner-up a year ago. Guenther made the quarterfinals and Isaac Whitehead also scored at state. The team has room for growth as well. Both Kuenzis, Guenther and Whitehead all are juniors.

Sophomore Owen Magill also has been performing well, Davis said.

Conference. The No. 1 Trojans downed No. 7 Culver 62-45 on Jan. 7 to improve to 5-0 in league and 15-1 overall. The defending state champions were led by Sophia Carley, who scored 25 points, and Kalyssa Kleinschmit, who added 23.

The Trojans also won a Jan. 3-5 tournament at Salem Academy, downing Blanchet Catholic, the No. 5 Class 3A squad, 40-35 in the title game. Kennedy sophomore Hailey Arritola was named MVP of the tournament.

“Our young sophomore core has been playing well past their years in the last few weeks,” said coach Peter Hall, who shares head coaching duties with his wife Kerry. Tenth-graders making key contributions in Kaden Kuenzi JAMES DAY Senior Gerardo Cruz has addition to Arritola, Peter been a pleasant surprise at Hall said, were Ellie Cantu 160, Davis said. Cruz has wrestled in and Elise Suing. the past but this is his first full season on “They have been improving every the varsity. He took second at the Larry moment of each game and have chipped Owens Invitational. in some great distance shooting and, A big challenge for Davis’ squad will be most importantly, hustle on defense and the competition in the Mid-Willamette rebounding.”

Conference. The league includes The Kennedy boys, meanwhile, were defending 5A champion Dallas, as well ranked sixth in Class 2A at Our Town’s as Crescent Valley and Lebanon, both of presstime with an 11-4 overall record. whom were in the top 10. Redistricting The Trojans are 5-1 in the Tri-River, has added West Albany and North Salem tied with Sheridan for second place to the league. The two squads were 10th behind 6-0 Western Christian. Kennedy and 12th, respectively, in Class 6A a visits the top-ranked Pioneers on Friday, year ago.

Jan. 18.

“We happen to be in one of the toughest “Overall, I feel like we are playing conferences in the state,” Davis said, pretty good basketball,” coach Karl noting that an MWC wrestler was in Schmidtman told Our Town. “It is tough the finals in every weight class last year for our opponents to match up with us on at state. “This year we expect our district any given night. Teams may think they tournament to be a very tough and hardcan focus on taking away one player and fought battle with many of our veterans we have others that can step up.” making it through to state. We are expecting that those who do make it to In a 64-29 win Jan. 7 vs. Culver, Rocco state will be very successful.”

Carley scored 19 points, John Tallon and Carlson both had 7 rebounds and Luke Hoops update: The Kennedy girls continue to march through the Tri-River Hall had six steals.

12 • January 2019

Silverton baseball player Kyle Kramer, left, and assistant coach Greg Kaatz carry in some of the gear donated to the program by two local businesses, Ri-Ky Roofing and Wolfers Home Services.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Silverton boys, meanwhile, are ranked No. 2 in Class 5A and were the lone unbeaten team in the MidWillamette with a 5-0 mark at Our Town’s presstime. The Foxes’ lone loss was to a team from California in the Eight Bracket of the Les Schwab Invitational.

“We are finally healthy and are really starting to play well,” coach Jamie McCarty told Our Town. “Defensively we have really improved the past few weeks, and our guys are getting to defensive spots on a consistent basis and are really starting to play with a little more fight and passion.

“Offensively we are so much more efficient the past two or three games.

The guys are playing super unselfish and are taking the right shot every time down the court.”

The Foxes girls squad, meanwhile, is 10-2 overall, 4-1 in the MWC and ranked No. 3 in the state. The lone league loss was against Lebanon. The Mid-Willamette includes four top 10 teams, with Lebanon 6th, Crescent Valley 7th and Central 9th.

“The league is just incredible,” coach Tal Wold told Our Town. “We have to

ourtownlive.com

continue to get great leadership knowing each night is big and we have to keep getting just a bit better. It is fun knowing that each night you will have to battle and play with great focus and urgency.”

Baseball donation: The Silverton baseball program has some new gear to play with, courtesy of a pair of generous local businesses. Ri-Ky Roofing and Wolfers Home Services, with Tara Kramer of Ri-Ky and Jessica Geck of Wolfers on hand for the unloading.

More than $7,000 in equipment was donated, including a pitching machine and associated items such as batting tunnels, balls, tarps and protective screens.

“Wolfers and Ri-Ky really stepped up big for us,” said Foxes athletic director and baseball coach James Rise. “Local businesses stepping up and doing what they can do to help out in the community is huge. We couldn’t do what we do without their support. It’s part of what makes Silverton a special play to live, coach, work and teach and be an athlete.”

Follow me on Twitter.com @jameshday.

Got a news tip? Email me at jamesday590@ gmail.com. Follow Our Town on Facebook.

Our Town Life

School Scrapbook

I, robotics

Students earn awards

By Melissa Wagoner Robotics isn’t just a fun, extracurricular activity for kids; it also prepares them for a career in the growing tech industry, according to Stacy Boost, a head coach of Mt. Angel Middle School’s VEX IQ Robotics program.

“There is such a push for our tech jobs, businesses and corporations to have the employee base to reflect the community base,” Boost explained. “We are in need of a more diverse group of people in such great positions. We are raising just that here at Mt. Angel Middle School.”

Boost, who is a sixth grade teacher in math, science and robotics, has coached robotics teams for the past 16 years – eight in Mount Angel and eight at Butte Creek Elementary. Upon her return to Mt. Angel Middle School this year – only blocks from her home – she has begun mentorship of the eight elementary aged VEX IQ Robotics teams and one middle school level VEX EDR team.

“VEX IQ Robotics is a program where students in grades three through nine build robots that have a ‘brain’ which is programmed on a computer, then downloaded,” Boost said. “Students design and build robots, program them, and try to score as many points as possible. Their challenge is on a four foot by eight foot board with field elements.”

Already this year one of Boost’s teams, The Ravens, won the Excellence Award as well as the Teamwork Champion award at the Next Level Robotics Tournament held at St. Mary’s Public School on Dec. 15. The awards qualified the team to attend the State Championship as well as the CREATE US Open in Council Bluffs, Iowa in April.

“Our teams brought home more awards than ever before,” Boost said. “I could not be more proud.”

Although winning awards is a motivating part of the program, Boost said the real rewards are in the skills the students gain.

“The children are learning to work together in teams to solve problems, to take on challenges, to use computer programming, structural skills, mechanical skills, strategic planning, teamwork, research, time management, project management and handling things not going the way that they were planned or designed to do,” Boost said. “They

Our Town Life

Mt. Angel Middle School VEX IQ Robotics at the recent competition.

have to present themselves and their team to judges, perform in front of an audience, meet other people doing the same challenges and then take on the challenges together. They are ambassadors of our school and town.”

Although rewarding, organizing a robotics program the size of the one in Mt. Angel can be a challenge, both physically and financially. Boost and fellow coach Katie Iverson are always looking for volunteers and financial help.

“We are looking for people/companies/ businesses/etc. who would be willing to help us financially be able to grow this program as well as to give the children the opportunity to travel to the tournaments that they have earned a spot in,” Boost said. “If any of our teams compete at a level which earns them a spot at Worlds, that is also an opportunity that I believe would be incredible for them to attend.”

For Boost, one of the numerous benefits of the robotics program is the chance her students get to travel to competitions and meet other teams from around the world.

“To see children from all ends of the earth competing with the same materials, challenges, rules… to work together to accomplish a task, to laugh, smile is the most uplifting and joy filled experience,” she said. “To hear so many languages, so many hard-working children, so many proud and attentive adults… to see a parade of nations including people who will be leading our world is something to leave one speechless. I found myself so overwhelmed with pride, hope, joy, and affirmation that this is what we are supposed to be doing.”

MELISSA WAGONER

Place your ad in Marketplace 503-845-9499

GENERAL

A TASTE OF CANADA The Glockenspiel Restaurant invites you to “A Taste of Canada” on Jan. 19 at 5 p.m. Please join us for this four course meal that features Canada’s favorite dishes! From smoked rabbit poutine to maple bacon peameal roast you won’t be disappointed. $28 a person, please make reservations 503-845-6222.

1994 FIBERGLASS DRIFT BOAT WITH TRAILER New tires. 9 ft Cataract oars with locks, 35 lb anchor system, length 14 ft,10 inches. Call Nick 503-502 -1300. $2,000.

LOST CHRISTMAS GIFT on the 3rd of December. Silver-colored round pendant with chain. Says “Chico” brand on back of pendant.

Call 503-873-1380 if found.

SEASONED FIREWOOD Shed stored and kept dry-Mostly fir and can deliver. $220/cord.

503-845-6410.

MOTORCYCLE PARTS Screaming Eagle Street Cannon pipes & pro street tuner. Brand new, only taken out of box to take pictures $625.

Possible Trade. scottnflfan@gmail.com FIREWOOD Fir/Cut/Split/Delivered.

Call for price 503-873-5235.

ourtownlive.com

CASH REWARD FOR STOLEN FAMILY HEIRLOOMS Large reward offered for information that leads to the arrest and or return of: • 1 Colt Army Revolver • 1 Model 1911 Army .45 • 1 AR 15 Saint Model • 1 Antique .32 cal Iver Johnson American Bulldog • 1 Black metal chest with personal info Please call 503-798-0028 .

FIREWOOD FOR SALE Maple, $220/cord, U-haul; phone for price if we deliver. 503-845-6487

RENTALS

MARIAN ESTATES COMPLETE RETIREMENT LIVING COMMUNITY – Studio and 1 Bedroom Cottages for rent. Price between $760.00 to $1046.00 per month, depending on square footage and location. Includes water, sewer, garbage, electric, scheduled transportation and fun activities. 55 and older.

Call for a tour: 503-769-8100

SERVICES

PERSONAL COURIER/DRIVER for hire. Reasonable rates. Call Beris 503-999-9239.

VISIONS CLEANING: Help get your home back from for the holidays. Excellent references. $65-$75 per clean. Organize your home and special projects.

Gift Certificates available.

503-607-3247 PRIVATE PIANO LESSONS Openings available for beginning students ages 4 and up in Silverton.

Contact Laurel at 509-480-0923 or email smitheducator03@ gmail.com.

GOT STUFF you want gone? From yard debris to scrap metal. From garage sale leftovers to rental clean outs. We repurpose, recycle, reuse or donate what we can.

Call and find out what we can do for you. $20 minimum. Keith 503-502-3462 RDR HANDYMAN & HOME REPAIR SERVICE Installation and repair of fencing, decks,doors, windows, gutter cleaner CCB 206637 licenced, bonded and insured. Call Ryan 503-881-3802 MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN P.E. Civil Engineer 503-873-8215.

TO ADVERTISE CALL

503-845-9499 January 2019 • 13

People Out Loud

Manner your mind Traditional column. New year. New goals. New resolutions. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Cut down on sweets. Uh, huh.

That’s history with the five pieces of Moonstruck Chocolate I sucked down last night like a hungry Dyson vacuum cleaner. Lose 30 pounds?

Toast – see previous chocolate malady.

Quit engaging others on politics? Oh, my. That went out the door Jan. 1, at 12:01 a.m. I gave some sage advice to a friend – “If you tell someone water is wet and they disagree, run. Really fast.” Don’t engage. Talking politics with a goal of converting them to your style of thinking is like trying to teach a pig to sing, according to Robert Heinlein. “It will waste your time, and it annoys the pig.”

No logical segue to be found here, but it was suggested to me that commentary on pet peeves and manners, or lack thereof, might be suitable material for my new year diatribe.

Let’s start the year off with some perspective incessantly rather than engaging with friends and relatives? Or at a restaurant or dinner table during family time?

Why do you text while someone is trying to teach you something? What if your psychologist starts to text as you bare your soul?

Do you insist that your children call or write thank-yous to people who have given them a gift? Poor “Annie” gets this question a thousand times a year.

Here goes: Unless it is an emergency, why does the person calling you during our scheduled meeting move to the front of the line? I was there first.

If I am driving 62 m.p.h. in a 55-m.p.h. zone, why are you turning red and flashing me ugly hand signals?

If you are nice enough to let me go first at the intersection because we arrived at the same time, why do you wave at me angrily to get going?

Do you believe the people within 1,000 feet of you at the mall or restaurant are interested in hearing every word of your loud phone conversation?

If someone does something nice for you, why do you not say thank you?

Even more so, why don’t you teach your kids to?

Why take your kids to a party and then let them play video games or text

Do you do your homework or think before you speak on certain matters?

It has been said, for a reason, that it is better to remain silent and have others think you a fool, than to open your

mouth and remove all doubt.

Do you honestly believe your gratuitous use of vulgarity on social media, public places, or just about anywhere improves your standing in life or causes passersby to celebrate your intelligence?

You know we can see you using your phone in plain sight as you drive through the intersection, nearly clipping my kid? You know that our motorcycle police officer will notice, too, sometime soon? Did you know the maximum fine for the first time is $1,000, I’m told? And that if you are involved in an accident, it is $2,000?

And to the lady who says she doesn’t like my opinion column because I am always expressing my opinions? “Water is wet, Dixon. Walk away.”

But wish her a happy New Year as you do.

Where We Live, Work & Play!

Our Town goes to EVERY mailbox, business and household. in Silverton, Mount Angel and Scotts Mills.

10,600 copies delivered FREE twice every month.

Community News & Sports Monthly Event Calendar Competitively Priced Advertisements (with Custom Graphic Design Included)

Marketplace Line Ads Locally & Independently-Owned by

photos by Jim Kinghorn

/ourtown.smasm

Mt. Angel Publishing, Inc.

14 • January 2019

ourtownlive.com

Call us! 503-845-9499 www.ourtownlive.com Our Town Life

...to all who supported us this holiday season, including our amazing sponsors!

ourtownlive.com or find us on facebook

In Memory Of …

Joseph Schmidt Pamela Sprauer Morris Fischer Eva M. Fields Charles Juenemann Simeral Helen Michael Vargas

April 30, 1926 — Dec. 16, 2018 June 26, 1927 — Dec. 17, 2018 July 26, 1939 — Dec. 25, 2018 July 17, 1921 — Dec. 25, 2018 Sept. 16, 1949 — Dec. 27, 2018 Oct. 31, 1927 — Dec. 31, 2018 Feb. 1, 1940 — Jan. 01, 2019

See full obituaries at www.ungerfuneralchapel.com Always honoring your request for traditional fire cremation, eco-friendly aqua cremation, celebration of life and funeral services involving earth burial.

We offer pre planning alternatives to control costs. Make your wishes know and we will do our best to relieve family distress.

Silverton Together

Interested in being a sponsor in 2019?

Contact Allie: alliew@moonstonehotels.com

Your local funeral chapels serving Mt. Angel since 1919 & Silverton since 1924.

Always available at your time of need 190 Railroad Ave. • Mt. Angel 503-845-2592 Our Town Life

229 Mill St. • Silverton 503-873-5141

ChristmasintheGarden.com info@christmasinthegarden.com 503-874-2539

ourtownlive.com

January 2019 • 15

SILVE

HU

BROKERS ARE LICENSED IN OREGON SILVERTON

TOWN

HUBBARD

COU

TOWN Kirsten Barnes Broker 503.873.3545 ext 326

Marcia Branstetter Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 318

Micha Christman Office Manager 873-1425

Karen Gehrt Broker 503.873.3545 ext 312

Becky Craig Broker 873-3545 ext. 313

Michael Schmidt Principal Broker 873-3545 ext. 314

Meredith Wertz Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 324

Ryan Wertz Broker COUNTRY 873-3545 ext. 322

Chuck White Broker 873-3545 ext. 325

Christina Williamson Broker 873-3545 ext. 315

Mason Branstetter Principal Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 303

STAYT

IN TOWN NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION

COUNTRY/ACREAGE

COMM

STAYTON/SUBLIMITY

FOR

LAND/ACREAGE

#T2514 VALLEY VIEWS $424,900

Great location at the end of dead end road on the edge of town, valley views, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath per the county, additional full bath in the basement, plus additional multipurpose room, previously set up for a salon space, large rec room in the basement. Roof is a year old, this home has a tons of potential. Home sits on 2 acres with a barn. Call Meredith at ext. 324 or Ryan at ext. 322.

(WVMLS# 741131)

SILVERTON

TOW SILVERTON BARELAND SILVE #T2489 CLASSIC 1950’s $359,950 #T2492 COUNTRY HOME $749,950 TOW HUBBARD COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL Classic 1950’s 3 bed, 2.5 bath in Fairmont Hill Country Home near Silverton & Mt. Angel! Check HU area. Located across street fromLEASE/COMMERCIAL Fairmont Park. out this hard to find 1970’s country home on 18.27 FOR FOR RENT W Home has been updated with gas fireplace in acres. Includes 4 Bedrooms, 3 baths, formal LR TOWN TOWN KEIZER LR and custom vinyl windows, however the 50’s & DR, family room, and sun room addition (over WOODBURN BARELAND/LOTS charm remains with covered entry, wood floors, 2600 sq. ft. of living space). There is a small workTOWN and radiant ceilingTOWN heat. Downstairs basement shop/storage building. Acreage is zoned EFU and COUNTRY area finished/ provides access to two car garage presently leased in grass seed. Easy to show!

SILVERTON w/ 1/2 bath and includes family/rec room AUMSVILLE/TURNER w/fireCall Chuck at ext. 325.

COU WOODBURN place, utility area, and workshop.

Price reduced HUBBARD IN TOWN NEW H $10,000!!! Call Chuck at ext. 325.

SILVERTON COUNTRY/ACREAGE

#T2517 LOTS OF ROOM $356,900

A 5-Bedroom Home! Lots of space! Located on a low traffic dead end road a short distance from downtown, pool, and park. Large Living Room with fireplace. 2-Story home with a partially finished daylight basement. Heat pump with A/C. Replacement improvements include; main water supply, underground sprinkler system and laminate flooring. Roof is 3 years old. Deck is 1 year old. Great price for the square foot. Call Michael at ext. 314. (WVMLS# 741716)

(WVMLS# 736185)

(WVMLS# 734911)

#T2492 COUNTRY HOME 4 BR, 3 BA 2674 sqft 18.27 Acres Call Chuck at ext. 325 $749,950 (WVMLS#736185)

#T2493 FIRST TIME ON MARKET 4 BR, 1.5 BA 2937 sqft 3.778 Acres Call Michael at ext. 314 $465,000 (WVMLS#737114)

#T2491 COUNTRY LIVING IN TOWN 4 BR, 2 BA 2150 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314 $613,700 (WVMLS#735719)

#T2494 BUILDABLE LOT LOT#3 2.01 Acres Call Michael at ext. 314 $170,000

SOLD-#T2497 FANTASTIC SETTING 3 BR, 3 BA 2672 sqft 7.00 Acres Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $619,800

#T2514 VALLEY VIEWS 3 BR, 2.5 BA 2399 sqft 2.01 Acres. Turner. Call Meredith at ext.

324, Ryan at ext. 322 $429,900 (WVMLS#741131)

HUBBARD

TOWN

(WVMLS#737712)

COUNTRY

(WVMLS#737118)

#T2493 FIRST TIME ON MARKET 4 BR, 1.5 BA 2937 sqft 3.778 Acres Call Michael at ext. 314 $465,000 (WVMLS#737114)

HUBBARD TOWN

OTHER COMMUNITIES #T2514 VALLEY VIEWS TURNER 3 BR, Rentals available in STAYTON/SUBLIMITY 2.5 BA 2399 sqft 2.01 Acres Call Meredith Silverton and Surrounding Areas. at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $424,900 LAND/ACREAGE

COUNTRY TOWN

STAYT For more info call Micha at LAN 503-873-1425 or see them on our website COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL IN TOWN NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION COUNTRY www.silvertonrealty.com #T2519 COMPLETELY UPDATED COUNTRY/ACREAGE FOR LEASE/COMMERCIAL FOR RENT COMM TURNER. 4 BR, 3 BA 2336 sqft Call (WVMLS#741131)

Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $389,900 (WVMLS#742456)

TOWN KEIZER IN TOWN NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION WOODBURN

BARELAND/LOTS COUNTRY/ACREAGE STAYTON/SUBLIMITY TOWN

#T0000 READY TO SELL? Reserved for your house. Call us today to IN TOWN NEW HOME1950s CONSTRUCTION #T2489 SALEM CLASSIC 3 BR, get the selling process started!

STAYTON/SUBLIMITY 2.5 BA 2224 sqft Call Chuck at ext. 325 COUNTRY/ACREAGE $359,950 (WVMLS#734911) #T2517 LOTS OF ROOM 5 BR, 2 BA 2521 LAND/ACREAGE COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL sqft Call Michael at ext. 314 $356,900 #T2518 CLOSE FREEWAY ACCESS 3 (WVMLS#741716) FOR LEASE/COMMERCIAL BR, 2 BA 1221 sqft Call Kirsten at ext. 326 STAYTON/SUBLIMITY COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL $275,000 (WVMLS#741861)

LAND/ACREAGE

SILVERTON

HUBBARD

LAND/ACREAGE TOWN

#T2492 COUNTRY HOME 4 BR, 3 BA 2674 sqft 18.27 Acres Call Chuck at ext. 325 $749,950 (WVMLS#736185)

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIALCOUNTRY

#T2497 FANTASTIC SETTING 3 BR, 3 BA FOR 2672 sqft 7.00 Acres Call LEASE/COMMERCIAL Meredith at ext.

324, Ryan at ext. 322 $619,800 (WVMLS#737712)

FOR RENT TOWNWOODBURN KEIZER BARELAND/LOTS TOWN

16 • January 2019

FOR

TOW

BARELAND AUMSVILLE/TU TOW

WOODBURN

W

FOR RENT OTHER COMMUNITIE TOWNWOODBURN KEIZER BARELAND/LOTS FOR LEASE/COMMERCIAL FOR RENT TOWN TOWNWOODBURN KEIZER High Visibility Commercial BARELAND/LOTS AUMSVILLE/TURNER Spaces for Lease WOODBURN TOWN AUMSVILLE/TURNER LIKE US ON IN TOWN NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION

COUNTRY/ACREAGE

WOODBURN

FACEBOOK! OTHER COMMUNITIES

AUMSVILLE/TURNER STAYTON/SUBLIMITY OTHER COMMUNITIES 303 Oak Streetourtownlive.com • Silverton • www.silvertonrealty.com LAND/ACREAGE

WOODBURN

503.873.3545 • 1-800-863-3545

TRUST THE

LAN

Our Town Life