School Spotlight
Something to Celebrate
School district considers timeline for closing middle school – Page 10
Meet this year’s First Citizen Awards recipients – Pages 4-8
Vol. 21 No. 4
COMMUNITY NEWS Serving Mt. Angel, Silverton and Scotts Mills
February 2024
Learning about the world – Page 10 Our Town P.O. Box 927 Mt. Angel, Or 97362
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Sports & Recreation
SHS Cheerleading back in competition – Page 17
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Our Town Life
Contents Something to Celebrate
Lifetime Achievement ............. 4 First Citizen..............................5 Distinguished Service.............. 6 Business of the Year.................7 Service Club of the Year............ 8 Postponed party rescheduled... 8
17
Civics 101
Silverton Community Center fate uncertain..........................9
School Spotlight
School closure pondered.........10 Kids pitch in at Food Share......10 Arts & Entertainment
SHS presents Captain Remote... 11
Sports roundup.......................17 A Slice of the Pie......... 18 Marketplace.................19 Above
Passages...........................12
Javan Austin and the almost 7 lb. trout he caught at Silverton Reservoir.
Legal Matters................14 Sports & Recreation
Football leagues reshuffled.... 16
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Did you leave something at your former employer?
On the Cover
Bethany Charter School teacher, Kim Merklin’s seventh & eighth grade class volunteering at Marion Polk Food Share. SUBMITTED PHOTO
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Paula Mabry Editor & Publisher
Stephen Floyd Digital Editor & Reporter
Jim Kinghorn Advertising Director
Melissa Wagoner Reporter
Our Town
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 Life
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Sara Morgan Datebook Editor
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Designer & Copy Editor
Janet Patterson
Distribution
Our Town mailed free to residents and businesses in the 97362, 97375, 97381 zip codes. Subscriptions for outside this area are $48 annually.
James Day
Sports Editor & Reporter
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The deadline for placing an ad in the March 1 issue is Feb. 20. Thank you for spending time with Our Town. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
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February 2024 • 3
Something to Celebrate
Lifetime Achievement Award The Home Place Restaurant – a true community hub
By Stephen Floyd
First Citizen Awards
For many Silvertonians, The Home Place Restaurant represents a rite of passage.
Organized by the Silverton Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Willamette Valley Bank
It’s where they got to have their first big birthday party, where numerous teenagers got their first jobs, where generations of athletes gathered for pre- and post-game celebrations.
Saturday, Feb. 17, 6 p.m. The Oregon Garden’s J. Frank Schmidt Pavilion 879 W. Main St., Silverton
Co-owner Debbie Bennet said the establishment is old enough now that customers bring their own families, talking about how they enjoyed coming as a kid. “We love hearing stories from customers that their parents brought them here to celebrate when they fill-in-the-blank,” she said. This abiding community impact is the reason The Home Place and owners Debbie and Don Bennett are receiving the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement from the Silverton Chamber of Commerce. The award is scheduled to be presented Saturday, Feb. 17, during the annual First Citizen Awards Gala. The Home Place Restaurant first opened in 1978 and Bennett recalled going there as a kid with her family. “I remember sitting in a booth and thinking how fancy the salad bar was,” she said. Like many others, Bennett got her first part-time job there while in high school, working on the pizza parlor side of the restaurant. She said they’re still the first employer for many young Silvertonians and teach the basics from work ethics and leadership to how to read a pay stub and
Tickets, $45, include dinner and are available at www.silvertonchamber. org. or call 503-873-5615 Don and Debbie Bennett, owners of The Home Place Restaurant SUBMITTED PHOTO
understand a 401k plan. “While we love it when our best employees stay on with us long-term, we understand that for many it is just a short stay in their employment journey,” said Bennett. While on the job Benentt met her future husband, Don Bennett, who was working as a manager. Don bought the restaurant in 1991 and in 1998 the two married. Debbie said she eagerly embraced her new role as co-owner. Though technically in charge, Debbie said she still enjoys working the front counter and the to-go window because that’s where she gets to connect with people and be part of their lives. As one example of meaningful interaction, Debbie said a young man once called the restaurant years ago while stationed with the military across the country. He explained he was from Silverton and
couldn’t reach anyone on his family’s phone, so he called The Home Place because he wanted someone from his hometown to talk to. In another story Bennet recalled a customer who shared that her husband had recently passed from a long terminal illness and had struggled to eat anything. One day he seemed to know his time was coming and he summoned a hankering for chicken fried steak, and the woman said it was The Home Place’s food he chose to enjoy during his last hours. “These kinds of stories draw us into customer’s lives,” said Debbie. “It feels good to know you matter.” The restaurant endured its own rites of passage after multiple disasters struck the area starting with COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. Debbie said, for around 12 months, they “were in a constant pivot” between lockdowns, partial reopenings and safety
protocols. Meanwhile the restaurant kept workers employed and customers fed from its drive-through window, which got around strict dine-in restrictions. Then that September a massive wildfire threatened the area and many Silverton residents evacuated. She said one woman in the drive through had a vehicle full of personal belongings and pet carriers who said The Home Place was her last stop for food as they were leaving town. Then during the ice storm in 2021 the restaurant didn’t have power for around a week due to damaged power lines. She said these events were “a crash course in adapting” and, despite these challenges, their goal remained to provide a good product at a good price without being “flashy or fancy.” Debbie said they were humbled to learn about the award and her first reaction was, “Oh, gosh! I’m going to have to say something publicly.” Tammie Sakai, who nominated the restaurant and the couple, said the honors are both well-deserved and long overdue. Though nominated for Business of the Year, the Selection Committee considered them for the Judy Schmidt Award and Sakai’s nomination expressed why their impacts have been felt over lifetimes. “The Home Place is Silverton’s gem, that is a must-stop for anyone that grew up here and no longer lives here,” she said. “... The owners are humble and kind and have managed to keep the business relevant and thriving since 1978!”
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First Citizen Educator and SACA board member Laura Wanker lauded By Melissa Wagoner It’s been 40 years, nearly to the day, since Laura Wanker became a part of the Silverton community, initially working as an educator and volunteer tutor, mentor and educational advocate for students at Silverton High School before joining the Silverton Area Community Aid’s (SACA) board. “Laura Wanker’s impact on the Silverton community is broad and substantial,” former superintendent and fellow SACA board member Andy Bellando wrote in a letter nominating Wanker for the Silverton Chamber of Commerce First Citizen Award. “As an educator, Laura makes a positive impact on the lives of local students… her humble (and extraordinary) efforts have resulted in thousands of success stories, lived by students who would have otherwise experienced serious challenges. Wanker is an education warrior, consistently supporting the needs of students on her own time and without compensation.”
Co-founder of alternative education in Silverton, alongside Bellando, Wanker worked with scores of at-risk youths during her career – many of them challenged by food insecurity – which is how her interest in volunteering with SACA began.
spent hundreds of hours (and even some sleepless nights) trying to make this dream come true,” SACA Executive Director Sarah DeSantis wrote in her nomination letter. “She is a champion for SACA and the people we serve.” And it’s time she was recognized for her service, according to Linda Webb, who headed the nomination appeal.
“I was once a teacher that had granola bars in my desk,” Wanker recalled. “So, I’ve always been a supporter. I see what [SACA] does for kids.” Initially helping with decorations during the annual Gala Fundraiser, Wanker eventually became head of the event and a member of SACA’s governing board. “Within a few short years, Laura’s leadership changed the culture of the fundraiser from one of ‘typical’ to one of triple digit revenue success,” Bellando wrote. “The SACA auction is now a model for the community and region.” But the Gala hasn’t been Wanker’s only means of supporting SACA. In 2017, when the organization added the procurement of a new facility to its
First Citizen, Laura Wanker
MELISSA WAGONER
strategic plan, Wanker volunteered to become Facility Committee Chair. “Committed to this goal, Laura took the helm of that committee and has
“Laura is a humble and tireless friend to those who have the pleasure to know her,” Webb wrote. “She never seeks attention for her good deeds and often operates in ‘stealth mode’ to help people in need. She is kind and dedicated and… if you ask her about her good work, she tells you all about the other people in the community that have made such a difference. Her leadership style is as a servant to those who also volunteer…”
“It’s really nice to be recognized,” Wanker said, when asked how it felt to receive the honor. “But there are so many people who could be recognized. This town is full of information agenda item people who do things.” rescheduli
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February 2024 • 5
Something to Celebrate
Distinguished Service John Friedrick – pastor, champion, safety net By James Day Sometimes your ability to make a difference in your community can be as simple as how often you say ”yes.” That’s been the case in recent years with Oak Street Church and its pastor John Friedrick. Yes to continuing its Monday meal tradition. Yes to using the church building for a warming shelter. Yes to hosting listening sessions for young people during polarizing times. Oak Street Church is celebrating 50 years this year and Friedrick has been on staff for 13 of those. “In some ways, I feel like I’m spending the dividends of my community’s investment in our beautiful town when I’m able to say yes to someone, or their project, or an event, and I’m thankful for the support of the folks at Oak Street to do that,” he told Our Town. “I didn’t start Monday Meal or Sheltering Silverton’s emergency warming shelter. In
both instances the people who did start them invited me into their work. None of us operates alone; we’re all dependent on each other. It’s good to recognize that, as much as we might help, we are also helped … because I need this community as much as anyone else.
me. They showed me that they’re just as wonderful and important as anyone else. By opening our doors to host Sheltering Silverton and welcoming our unhoused neighbors, we were blessed and our community was invited to grow.” Or Monday Meal.
“Any good I’ve been able to do has been supported and encouraged by more people than I realize. I’m grateful for this town.” And Silverton is happy to return the favor. Friedrick is being honored with the Silverton Chamber of Commerce’s Distinguished Service Award for 2023 at the Feb. 17 First Citizen Awards Night at The Oregon Garden. The nominating papers note that when Friedrick took over the Oak Street congregation from Breck Wilson in 2018, Wilson was the longest tenured pastor in Silverton. “You don’t hand over your church after 40 years to just anyone,” the nomination
John Friedrick received the Distinguished Service Award for 2023 SUBMITTED PHOTO
form says, “and John has proven over and over again what an asset he is to our community.” Friedrick noted that part of the journey has involved learning lessons and facing challenges. Take the warming shelter for example. “When Sarah White [of Sheltering Silverton] approached Breck Wilson… about hosting an emergency warming shelter in our building, it made sense for us and our values and he said yes on the spot,” Friedrick said. “I’m glad that he did, because at the time I was afraid of folks who lived outside. Getting to know people who were homeless was good for
“Monday Meal brings a variety of challenges. We rely on a large number of volunteers from our church and the broader community and our folks are so dedicated,” he said. “COVID was a really rough time for our meal, but we adapted and served meals to go for a couple years. Mostly we have to find ways to not let people burn out. We have to keep our dinner guests and their experience central to what we do and how we do it. Monday Meal isn’t merely about nutrition, it’s about building community.” During the interview Friedrick consistently praised others and championed a collective spirit in town. He noted First Christian and First Trinity also have done meal services. Immanuel Lutheran also served as a warming shelter. Bill Schiedler and Mel Pylipow with Garden Ripe have helped with the meals. “My hope is that Oak Street is a place where people can grow deeper as a community, moving toward abundant love, holding difficult conversations, and welcoming each stranger as a new friend,” he said. “Can we be a place where everyone who wants to can belong?”
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The party to honor retiring Silverton Senior Center Executive Director Dodie Brockamp was rescheduled because of the water damage the building suffered during the recent ice storm. Now the party, honoring Dodie’s 12 years of service, is at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17 at the First Christian Church, 402 N. First St. A light luncheon and cake will be served. The center’s building is closed indefinitely after pipes in the attic
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burst during the January freeze. No date for reopening has been set, with repairs expected to take an extended period of time. Many of the center’s activities have been shifted to other locations because of the building closure. For times and locations, consult the center’s website at silvertonseniors. org or call the new executive director, Simone Stewart, at 503-873-3093 or email director@silvertonseniors.org.
– James Day
Our Town Life
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Silverton Willamette Valley Bank operations manager Johna Overfield, branch manager Joshua Keck, and staff member Rachel Sepull. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Business of the Year
Willamette Valley Bank has community roots By James Day From its arrival in Silverton in 2002 Willamette Valley Bank has lived by the motto that to serve the community you must be involved in the community. “Twenty-two years ago a group of business owners opened Willamette because they believed the community would be better served by a locally headquartered bank, managed by people who understood the challenges and opportunities businesses and individuals face in the Willamette Valley,” branch manager Joshua Keck told Our Town. “They understood the way in which banks needed to operate. They understood the desire of people in this community who would choose to work with a banker rather than a bank. Bankers who take the time to develop relationships with their local clients to craft financial solutions that best serve their needs. Bankers who knew their clients’ names when they walked through the door. Bankers who understand best how to make an impact on the local community by way of giving back and investing in local projects. “This is why our involvement in our community is so integral to the DNA of Willamette Valley Bank.” The “giving back” piece by Willamette Valley Bank and its employees has not gone unnoticed. The bank participates, both in terms of sponsorships and financial support and volunteering, in events such as the Mayor’s Ball, the inaugural Paws in the Park, the Silverton Hills Strawberry Festival and the Homer Davenport Community Festival.
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The Silverton Chamber of Commerce has named Willamette Valley Bank as its Business of the Year for 2023 and Keck and his employees will be honored at the Feb. 17 First Citizen Awards Night at The Oregon Garden. According to the nominating papers the bank “also has been known for making sure that their managers and often operations managers are active on Silverton committees and in Silverton service groups, and they are known for sending staff to directly participate in working at events.” Branch manager Keck is president-elect of the Silverton Rotary Club as well as current president of the chamber. He noted in the Our Town interview that “all five of the staff at the Silverton branch volunteer time in community events [and] some of the staff are on committees for local community projects. Last April we did ‘Teach Kids to Save,’” an event in which bank personnel visited 25 middle school classrooms and talked to more than 500 middle school students throughout the Willamette Valley about financial literacy. Keck, who has been with Willamette Valley Bank for just more than two years added “with the tag line ‘where local means something’ we are living what we believe. If we, as a local community bank, are not engaging in our communities and supporting local businesses and organizations, then we have failed as a community bank. That is why we as a bank emphasize the importance of fully immersing ourselves into this community and support however we can. “We are honored and privileged to be a part of such a great community.”
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$579,900 4bd/ 2.5ba~ 2642 SF home is located in quiet neighborhood close to Hospital and downtown~ Mid-century style home offers a lot of flexible space! Upstairs bonus room~ Shop space in partial finished basement~Oversized 2 car garage~ Low maintenance yard~ Silverton~ Robin Kuhn 503-930-1896 MLS#811526
$460,000 Creek Frontage~ located close to historic downtown Silverton~ 2bd/ 1ba~1328 SF ~ Silver Creek in backyard~ .21 acre lot zoned to allow duplex or ADU (plan subject to city approval) upstairs bonus room could be 3rd bedroom~ New carpet in January~ Seller is offering $15,000 buyer credit for rate buy down or CC! Silverton~ Valerie Boen 503-871-1667 MLS#810541
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$339,000 Darling single level cottage w/charm throughout! 3bd/ 1ba~ 1255 SF~Some hardwood floors~ Shop/shed~Salem~ Robin Kuhn 503-930-1896 MLS#812986
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$312,000 Endless Possiblities w/ this corner charming single level~ 1bd/ 1ba~ 1248 SF~ Upstairs bonus room could be second bedroom~ Chicken Coop~Covered patio~Silverton~ Christy Cordova 541-786-1613 MLS#811515 $325,000 270 Acres Own your own private sanctuary! Suitable for: wildlife refuge, private hunting, hiking, picnicing, dry camping, personal enjoyment or make Oregon’s biggest dog park! Perpetual Conservation easement prohibits any: farming, ranching or building any homes~ Scio~ Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#801829 $289,000 Build your dream home on this new 2.01 acre buildable lot! Views of Mt Jefferson~ Fenced & Septic approved~ Salem~ Jackson Sherwood 971-343-2475 MLS#812711 $195,000 Reserve your lot in Paradise Village Subdivision! Lot #30 ~ 39 lots total in this new subdivision~ For more info contact David & Angela Leikem 503-991-0296 or 503-991-0293 MLS#810845
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@harcourtssilverton February 2024 • 7
Something to Celebrate
Service Group of the Year Silverton Sidewalk Shindig honored
By Melissa Wagoner When Alan Mickelson joined forces with Lawrence Stone, Greg Hart, Gregg Sheesley and Ron Nelson to put on the very first Silverton Sidewalk Shindig in 2012, he never could have predicted that 12 years later the event would still be going strong or that the organization would be the recipient of the Silverton Chamber of Commerce’s Service Group of the Year Award for 2023. “That first year I think people were saying, ‘What is this?’” Mickelson recalled. “But after the first year, people did see there was some value in what was going on and to attracting people for the merchants and restaurants.” Having a festival located solely in Silverton’s downtown corridor – rather than in Coolidge McClaine Park – has always been the primary goal of the festival, which organizers estimate attracts around 3,000 visitors each year. “This last year was the best,” board member Emily Pawlak said of the 2023 lineup. It included 45 solo artists and bands. “It was the most fun… I heard so many good comments.” Organizing the all-day event is no small feat, especially with a committee that is holding steady at five members. “Nobody should underestimate the amount of effort it takes to pull off a whole day of rotating stages and musicians, coordinated with businesses as well,” City Councilor Eric Hammond wrote in his nomination letter. “It takes commitment and hard work and belief in and love of the event,” board member Elizabeth Hess agreed. Adding, “But we have such a great chairperson and are so organized.” And planning for the event has come a long way. “At first the bands solicited their own venues,” Mickelson recalled. “But then the committee saw they needed to step up and step in.” But while much about the organization behind the Shindig has changed – musicians are no longer paid solely in cash and organizers no longer write out the day’s schedule longhand on paper – the backing the organization receives
The board of the Silverton Sidewalk Shindig includes Elizabeth Hess, Emily Pawlak, Sarah Weitzman, Poppy Shell Wiegand and Alan Mickelson. COURTESY OF MADDY TRAVER PHOTOGRAPHY
from Silverton’s merchants has not. “One of the neat things about this event is people have been so supportive,” chairperson Sarah Weitzman said. “A lot of pre-pandemic events didn’t come back. But we made an effort to come back. And now I think we really see the value in how important it is to support our town.” The Sidewalk Shindig does not support just one group or entity. “Instead it gives to the musicians, the audience, the businesses of Silverton and importantly the civic heart of Silverton,” Hammond wrote, “Each of us receives because of the Shindig.” And those effects are easy to see.
The Sidewalk Shindig has been an event appreciated by all ages and has presented major acts like The Norman Sylvester Band in 2019 (above). PHOTOS BY JIM KINGHORN
“Walking around and seeing the crowds,” Hess said, “that says it all.”
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Our Town Life
Civics 101
Silverton City Council
Joe & Dana
Community Center perplexity continues By James Day Figuring out what is next for the Silverton Community Center is turning into a confusing game of musical chairs. The city holds the lease for the building, which is owned by the Oregon Military Department. That lease expires March 31, which means that tenants Jazzercise, Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA), WIC, the Silver Falls YMCA and the Elizabeth Hoke Trust all will be affected. While the city council holds its meetings at the center, it could easily find other quarters for meetings until the new Civic Center is finished. SACA, along with the WIC program and the Hoke Trust, plan to move to space in the old Ratchet Brewery building on North First Street. But SACA won’t be ready to move until the summer, said Sarah DeSantis, who spoke to the Silverton City Council via Zoom at its Monday, Feb. 5 meeting. The YMCA, meanwhile, has pulled back from its earlier plans to take over the lease. YMCA officials said the big challenge was insuring the building because of its age, condition and the possible risk of repairs. Kristi Horner, branch director of the Y, told Our Town “we are pursuing other short-term options as we look to find a more permanent solution.” City Manager Cory Misley told the council that he will be in contact with the Oregon Military Department to see if a short term extension of the lease is possible: In other council action: • Councilors approved, as part of its consent agenda, spending an additional $56,659 on change orders for the new Civic Center. Construction of the 26,000-square foot, two-story building is 4.14% over its initial budget of $14.75 million and its original opening date of summer 2023 has been pushed to early April 2024. Because of project budget and completion date challenges the council and Misley agreed that an item on the progress of the project will be on each
Our Town Life
future council agenda until the building opens.
• Councilors approved another $99,816 in spending on the streets, sidewalks and other improvements in the Second Street corridor between Lincoln and Whittier. The new allocation was on top of $233,000 in additional funds that were approved at the Jan. 8 council session. The new funds were necessary because of a road base failure and some engineering cost estimate errors. • Councilors met for nearly four hours on Feb. 6 at The Oregon Garden to discuss goals for the 2023-24 council cycle. Councilors also will discuss goals at a Feb. 26 work session and hope to finalize them March 4. The biggest ticket item is a new water treatment plant to replace a unit from the 1940s at the complex on East Main Street. The project has been in the planning stages for awhile, with the city earlier budgeting $9.5 million expected from a Business Oregon loan. But when bids for the project came in at $13 million the city put the project on hold while efforts were made to close the funding gap. One intriguing draft goal includes turning the small piece of city property north of the new Civic Center into a “mobility hub.” Possible features might include electric vehicle charging stations, a transit stop and parking. Licensed Bonded Insured
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February 2024 • 9
School spotlight
Closure deadline Middle school planning
Bethany students pitch in at Marion Polk Food Share
By Stephen Floyd
By Melissa Wagoner
Officials in the Silver Falls School District (SFSD) had their first serious talk about the possibility of closing Silverton Middle School as they moved forward with a bond to replace the facility. During the Jan. 29 meeting of the SFSD Board, Superintendent Scott Drue proposed a deadline of June of 2027 to close the campus and sought board member input. He said this timeframe would allow enough time to take measured steps toward a transition. June of 2027 would also leave the district on firmer financial footing, he said, amid bonds and loans coming to a close and the replenishing of reserves expended after recent disasters. While there was general consensus among the board that the current middle school should be closed, they were split on whether or not a firm closure timeline would be helpful. Their discussions prompted serious examination of the benefits of closing the school versus keeping the aging facility open, both in terms of funding and the impacts on students’ lives. The board was expected to vote Feb. 12 (past Our Town’s press deadline) on whether or not to place a $73 million facilities bond on the May 21 ballot. The proposal would replace the middle school and provide repairs and upgrades at Silverton High School. This is a follow-up to a $138 million bond voters rejected Nov. 7, 2023. It would have funded a new middle school as well as critical improvements to the other ten schools in the district. The district has identified SMS as its most critical infrastructure need. Concerns include the 1938 wing that has been closed off as a health hazard, as well as the extra $100,000 spent annually to maintain the deteriorating campus.
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During the Jan. 29 meeting, Board Chair Jennifer Traeger said a closure deadline as proposed by Drue would help voters understand the possible impact of a “No” vote in May. She said 2023 bond efforts focused on the benefits of a “Yes” vote and she said voters need to understand both options. “I think putting a date on it makes it real,” she said. Board Member Owen Von Flue said some voters may look at the $100,000 in excess maintenance costs and decide that’s preferable to a $73 million bond. He said convincing such voters would require a very compelling reason and he was unsure if they would be swayed by a closure deadline. Board Member Joshua Ort said he was uncomfortable committing to a deadline without knowing what it would cost to keep the current campus compared to building a new one. He cited critics of the 2023 bond effort who “already think we spend our money poorly” and said, if the board committed to a timeline without additional information “this would just further that sentiment.” Board Member Tom Buchholz said the human cost must be weighed in addition to the finances, as closing the school would displace roughly 440 students and dozens of employees. One solution SFSD has explored is sending students to the outlying K-8 schools, and Buchholz said this distance from their current school community would cause further upheaval. He acknowledged this social disruption as well as the financial impact would not be known without a plan in place, but questioned if a deadline would feel too forceful to voters. Board Member Derrick Foxworth suggested drafting a more generalized explanation of the need for an exit strategy if the bond fails, including possible closure of the current building. The board agreed with this strategy and was expected to vote on a final draft of the language by Feb. 26, which if approved would appear among the explanatory statements on the ballot.
Kim Merklin has taken her students on a lot of field trips during the 14 years she has taught at Bethany Charter School, but few have been as impactful as those she and her class of 30 seventh and eighth grade students have taken to the Marion Polk Food Share. “I was astonished the first time I walked in,” Merklin said. Her late mother, Janette Riley, founded the nonprofit in 1981. “I hadn’t really tracked it in all these years… but it’s so cool to see it’s all over Oregon.” An economist working for the Department of Agriculture, Merklin’s mom established a way to combat the issues of hunger and food waste by connecting farmers with community-based foodbanks. “I think she saw the potential of that partnership,” Merklin said. “And I think she saw the potential for it to be a really important thing.” Riley didn’t live to see her dream reach its potential. She died of cancer in 1982. But the program expanded and, in 2023, provided monthly food assistance to over 13,000 families, meals to over 8.1 million community members and helped over 644 households grow healthy food. Merklin’s students have volunteered, packing 4,000 lbs. of carrots, apples and tomatillos in 2023 and 2,700 lbs. of mushrooms in 2024. “What’s really great about it is that every student showed up,” Merklin said. “I believe in the saying, ‘many hands make light work’.” She also believes that offering her students new experiences is one of the most valuable lessons she can provide. “We take a field trip every month,” she said, “so they can have a different vision of themselves in the world. It’s essential work, and if I don’t teach it, they don’t learn it.”
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Our Town Life
Arts & Entertainment
Captain Remote SHS play inspired by ‘superpowers’ and Queen’s music By Melissa Wagoner
“If you could have any superpower, what superpower would you choose?” That was the question students in Doug Ousterhout’s theater program asked a group of fourth graders in 2010.
Captain Remote An original musical by SHS theater director Doug Ousterhout Silverton High School Auditorium 1456 Pine St. Friday, Feb. 16, 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23, 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m.
“One kid said, ‘to find the remote control,’” Ousterhout said, recalling how that answer went on to influence that year’s Children’s Theater Show titled, Captain Remote, which toured the district’s elementary schools before being relegated to his archives. Then, last summer, as Ousterhout began contemplating the performance run for the coming year, something about that old script spoke to him. He dusted it off, freshened it up and turned it into a musical by adding a soundtrack based on the music of the well-known band Queen. “I’ve always liked Freddie Mercury, his voice and his music,” Ousterhout said of the choice. “And the music is still applicable now.” As is the story, which features a superhero, Captain Remote, trying to stop the villainous Comcastinator from taking over the world. “The show is especially designed for families,” Ousterhout said. “And it’ll especially appeal to the
The cast of Captain Remote, performs an original musical written by SHS theater director Doug Ousterhout.
younger elementary age.” From the nostalgic lyrics – sung by a cast and
ensemble of 30 – to the dance choreography Captain Remote is all about fun.
MELISSA WAGONER
“We have a president and secret service agents and
minions,” Ousterhout listed. “We have silly fights… and the most beautiful voices.”
In other words, the show is a real must-see event.
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February 2024 • 11
Passages
Gerald Roy Treber, LCDR, US Navy
Virginia ‘Ginger’ Lichty
Dec. 13, 1930 – Jan. 12, 2024
Nov. 20, 1948 – Jan. 26, 2024
Lt. Commander Gerald Treber was a remarkable man and loving father. A lifelong lover of music, Jerry grew up in Portland, Oregon, and attended the University of Washington where he majored in voice and obtained a BA in Music. While at college Jerry discovered a love of rowing, and he crewed all four years on the formidable UW rowing team. Upon graduation, Jerry joined the U.S. Navy, serving in the Korean and Vietnam wars as a pilot and flight instructor, and as a Nuclear Weapons Officer on the U.S.S. Kearsarge. After a 25-year Navy career, Jerry and his wife, Marilyn, owned and operated a successful Baldwin Piano and Organ dealership on the San Francisco Peninsula. Jerry enjoyed playing and teaching the organ and the piano, sharing his love of music with friends, family, and members of the organ club. An adventurous spirit, Jerry was always planning his next trip. Family often recalls their epic tours in Canada and Ireland, and he visited Hawaii often in his later years. An avid sailor and outdoors person, Jerry, along with extended family and friends, spent many vacations camping and fishing throughout California and along the Oregon coast. Jerry was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Elks Lodge, and the Sojourners. Jerry lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 40 years before returning to the Northwest, moving to Silverton, Oregon, in 2004. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn, and is survived by his sister, Shirley Jensen; sons, Jerry, Jr., David, Paul, and Mark, and their partners; his daughter, Marlene; and three grandchildren. Military ceremony and burial will be held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland. In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who wish to donate to Gerald Treber Sr.’s memory, please consider giving to their favorite charity. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Silverton.
In Memory Of … David Jones Ana Kipp Jere White Pamela Main Sister Mechtilde Fennimore Sister Theresa Henscheid Virginia Lichty Lenore Schaecher
Feb. 8, 1947 July 12, 1947 July 14, 1959 Oct. 28, 1962
— — — —
Virginia Aldine Lichty was born on Nov. 20, 1948, in Watseka, Illinois to Ben and Perceda Scharer. She was the seventh of 18 children. She spent her younger years in Cissna Park, Illinois. At the age of nine the family moved to Oregon where she attended Bethel Elementary and North Salem High School, graduating in 1966. On Dec. 3, 1966, she married Ron Lichty. They were married for 57 years. “Ginger” was a loyal and loving wife as well as a caring and kind mother, grandmother, daughter and sister. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, reading, puzzles, and driving with Ron to the coast. She worked for Steve Kaufman at Oregon Book Binding Co. for 33 years. For many years, she was an active member at Emmanuel Bible Church and was involved with the women’s ministry program. In later years, Ron and Ginger attended the Apostolic Christian Church. Ginger
will be remembered for her beautiful smile, gentleness and kindness to all she met. Her love and faith guided her life and she hoped that others would experience that as well. On Jan. 26, 2024, Ginger passed away peacefully at home with her husband by her side. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Perceda; brother, Larry; and sister, Sandy. She is survived by her loving husband, Ron; daughters, Tammy (David) and Ann (Jim); sons, Ryan (Traci) and Andrew (Carri); nine grandchildren; six brothers; and nine sisters. A funeral service was held on Feb. 3 at the Apostolic Christian Church of Silverton. Private interment followed at Pratum Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Serenity Hospice (The Hope Foundation) (https://serenityhospice.org/donate/) or Apostolic Christian Church of Silverton. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Silverton.
Josie Rice Jan. 9, 1929 – Feb. 6, 2024 Josie (Kenagy) Rice was born in Hubbard, Oregon, and grew up on the family farm with five older brothers.
Jan. 20, 2024 Jan. 21, 2024 Jan. 22, 2024 Jan. 23, 2024
In 1948, she married Homer Rice from Ohio. Together they raised three sons, who survive: Denny (Ruth) of Vancouver, Washington, Fred (Gloria) of the Silverton Hills, and Pete (Christy Thomas) of Silverton.
March 12, 1930 — Jan. 25, 2024
Also surviving are four grandchildren: Tricia (Tim) King of Silverton, Michele Herman of Hillsboro, Jolene (Jordan) Daniels of Oregon City, and Joel Donley (Savannah Swartz) of Keizer, plus eight great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. She also considered Ron and David Nelson, both of the Silverton area, to be her bonus sons.
Oct. 26, 1935 — Jan. 26, 2024 Nov. 20, 1948 — Jan. 26, 2024 July 29, 1930 — Feb. 3, 2024
See full obituaries at www.ungerfuneralchapel.com
Josie loved people, especially small children. It was not unusual to find extra people in her cozy Silverton Hills home, enjoying her famous cinnamon rolls or playing games. Josie’s faith in God was unwavering. She began every day by reading a devotional passage and singing a traditional hymn, and she was a mainstay of the Chapel in the Hills.
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She is buried next to Homer in Green Mountain Cemetery. No public memorial is planned. For a full obituary and access to a video of her life, visit the Unger Funeral Chapel website.
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Our Town Life
Evelyn ‘Tootie’ Marcum
Patricia Ruth Loe Jan. 1, 1932 – Jan. 13, 2024
March 17, 1929 – Jan. 12, 2024 Evelyn was well known by all as “Tootie” Marcum. She passed away in her home the morning of Jan. 12, 2024. Tootie is survived by son, Scott Marcum; sister, Nila Simms; and brother, Pat Simms. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her son, John; and her daughter, Beth Marcum.
Tootie was born in Omak, Washington during the Great Depression. The family moved to Holden, Washington in 1938 where her father got a job working in the coal mines. When she was in the sixth grade, the family got to move into a home with electricity and indoor plumbing. Tootie graduated from Chelan High School because there was no high school in Omak. Her mother found a home in Chelan, Washington where they could live while Tootie attended classes. She met Bob Marcum and fell in love. Then he went off to war while she was finishing high school. Her senior year, Bob returned from World War II in the Pacific. They skiied
and skiied and decided at 18 and 20 it was time to marry. They were married 71 years. They stayed in Chelan for five years, then decided to see the country. They traveled to Los Angeles, California and worked their way north. They landed in Silverton, Oregon in Bob’s search for work. They fell in love with Silverton and stayed. Tootie worked as a secretary, waitress, and teacher’s assistant. They adopted twin boys, and then a girl to round out the family. Bob and Tootie were long time members of Silverton First Christian Church, and very active at volunteering. Tootie taught children’s music in Sunday School for 40 years and was always quick to volunteer for special projects. She had a heart of gold and sincerely loved countless people she met through her busy life. Services will be held Saturday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church in Silverton. Donations are welcome to First Christian Church of Silverton. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Victoria ‘Vickie’ Ann Raborn July 29, 1954 – Jan. 10, 2024 Victoria “Vickie” Ann Raborn (Dewees) passed away on Jan. 10, 2024 in Tualatin, Oregon, in the presence of family. She was 69 years old. Vickie was born in Muncie, Indiana, on July 29, 1954. She was the oldest of four girls. She graduated from Tecumseh High School in Ohio. She lived in Arizona, South Carolina, and Washington, before retiring in Silverton, Oregon near family and friends. Vickie was known for her social and outgoing personality. She loved hosting holiday gatherings, cribbage tournaments, and was a member of the Elks Lodge. She was always looking forward to
her next trip! She enjoyed decorating, slot machines, and dancing. She will be missed dearly by friends and family. She is preceded in death by her previous husband, Hank Raborn, and sister, Tamara Hensley. She is survived by her partner, Ray Freese; children, Dustin (Leslie) Huddleston and Kristian Huddleston; stepson, Tony (Becky) Raborn; two grandchildren; parents, Barbara (Allan) Wolf and Robert (Janet) Dewees; sisters, Stephanie Ingram and Cynthia Pelletier; and other half siblings. A Celebration of Life was held at Unger Funeral Chapel in Silverton on Jan. 27.
Submissions welcomed: Our Town appreciates the opportuity to share life’s Passages with our readers. If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, college graduation or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com.
Our Town Life
Patricia Ruth Loe, 92, of Silverton, Oregon, passed away on Jan. 13, 2024. Pattie was born on Jan. 1, 1932 in Bazille Mills, Nebraska to Ruth and John Barton Megonigle. After her mother passed away, Pattie was raised by her aunt Irma and uncle Claude Bergstrom. They moved many times living in Nebraska, Iowa, and California prior to arriving in Oregon. Pattie attended Silverton High School where she became good friends with Kathryn Loe. In 1951, Pattie married Roger, Kathryn’s brother. They settled into the family home in Evans Valley where they raised five children and attended Immanuel Lutheran Church. Pattie was passionate about flowers and could be found working in her yard most days of the year. In the 1980s, she began working at Wilco Farmers in Silverton, where customers sought her gardening advice. In 2002, Pattie’s dedication paid off and she was awarded Best Garden in the Backyard Inspirations Tour. Roger and Pattie enjoyed traveling, the
company of their beloved cats, their many grandchildren, and hosted family gatherings. After Roger passed away in 2011, Pattie moved to the Mount Angel Towers where she kept up an active social life. During her time at the Towers, Pattie knitted over 100 prayer shawls for her church. Pattie’s faith was a source of strength and comfort throughout her life. Pattie always wanted a big family after growing up as an only child. She took immense pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her children, Greg (Joan) Loe, Ruthi Nicholson, Kevin (Lori) Loe, Laurie (Randy) Steffen and Wendy (Scott) Feller, as well as 15 grandchildren and 34 greatgrandchildren. A Celebration of Life was held on Feb. 11 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Silverton. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Silverton.
Stanley Duane Hollin Feb. 27, 1949 – Jan. 9, 2024 Stanley Duane Hollin born Feb. 27, 1949 in McMinnville, Oregon to Nevil and Melva Hollin died at his home in Silverton, Oregon on Jan. 9, 2024. Stan was predeceased by his parents; brother, John Magee; and sister, Sylvia Magee Becker. Stan is survived by his sister, Linda Hollin Zollner; bonus grandson, Evan Whitney; nephews, Shawn Zollner, John Magee and Nevil Magee; and nieces, Brandi Zollner and Summer Magee Stephens. Many great and great-great nieces and nephews and numerous cousins. Stan is also survived by his sons, Brent Hollin and Brian Hollin; and grandchildren, Jack Hollin, Grace Hollin and Tyler Hollin. The family wishes to thank Willamette Vital Health for their support during Stan’s journey and the ladies at Willamette Valley Care Givers for their care and concern for Stan 24 hours-a-day. They made it possible for him to remain in his home.
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his side.
Stan graduated from Silverton Union High School in 1967. He worked for Roth’s IGA and went to work for and retired from Pepsi as a delivery driver. After retiring, Stan became the caretaker for Valley View Cemetery in Silverton, Oregon. That is where Stan will rest with his beloved dog, Bear, by
He loved to fly fish which he preferred to do all by himself. He was an avid bowler and had checked into being a professional for a short time. Stan was part owner of Northgate Bowling Center in Salem, Oregon. He went through a golf phase where he and Uncle James would get in his uncle’s airplane, fly off somewhere to play 18 holes and then fly back home. Stan requested to have no formal funeral service which will be respected. There will be an informal “farewell to Stan” hosted by Linda, Evan, Shawn and Brandi, Sunday, Feb. 25, 2 to 5 p.m. at 5309 Alpha St. SE, Salem, Oregon.
February 2024 • 13
Legal Matters
Sentencing Courts hand out penalties for hit-and-run, domestic violence
100 months for DUII fatality A Silverton man has been sentenced to more than eight years in prison for a DUII collision last year that killed a Keizer teenager. Gustavo Sosa, 27, pleaded guilty Feb. 1 in Marion County Circuit Court to second-degree manslaughter and hit-andrun for the May 23, 2023, death of Victor Andre CortezAndrade, 16. He also pleaded no-contest to DUII. Sosa was sentenced Feb. 5 to 100 months in prison and 36 months of post-prison supervision. This plea deal helped him avoid standing trial March 12 for charges including first-degree manslaughter, which carried a minimum of ten years in prison. Sosa was arrested following a traffic collision May 21, 2023, in Salem when his vehicle rear-ended two other vehicles, one of which was occupied by Cortez-Andrade. Sosa fled the scene then turned himself in the next day. Cortez-Andrade was hospitalized after the collision and succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Standoff case dropped in DV plea An Aumsville man arrested in Silverton last fall after a police standoff has been sentenced to more than two years in prison after pleading guilty in a separate domestic violence case. Steele James Davidson, 30, pleaded guilty Feb. 6 in
Marion County Circuit Court to resisting arrest and two counts of first-degree burglary. He had been accused of attempting to hold a woman against her will in March of 2023 at the victim’s residence in Jefferson. Davidson received 28 months in prison and 36 months of post-prison supervision. The plea agreement included the dismissal of a charge of attempt to elude a police officer related to the standoff. Davidson was arrested in Silverton Oct. 25, 2023, after police attempted to contact him in Salem for unlawfully meeting with the victim of the March incident. He fled north on Cascade Highway and once in Silverton hid in the basement of a residence on the 200 block of West Main Street. During a brief standoff, police used Davidson’s GPS tracker and a K-9 unit to confirm he was in the basement. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Three years for Silverton gun attack A California man has been sentenced to three years in prison for attempting to shoot another man in Silverton last year. Gary Rayford Chipman, 45, of Rohnert Park, California, pleaded guilty Jan. 5 in Marion County Circuit Court to unlawful use of a weapon and felon in possession of a firearm. On Feb. 6 he was sentenced to 36 months in prison and 24 months of post-prison supervision.
Chipman was arrested Sept. 9, 2023, after an incident that day in Silverton when he attempted to shoot another man. He was not allowed to possess the weapon due to a 2019 felony conviction out of Butte County, California, for an injury hit-and-run.
Graffitist to pay city $6,000 A former Silverton man has been ordered to pay the City of Silverton nearly $6,000 after completing a deferred sentencing program for a graffiti spree in late 2022. Roman Lucian Cunningham, 24, of Portland, originally pleaded guilty June 29, 2023, to felony first-degree criminal mischief in Marion County Circuit Court. On Feb. 9 this was reduced to a misdemeanor after Cunningham completed the terms of his plea agreement, which included 100 hours of community service and an apology letter to the city. As part of sentencing the court ordered Cunningham to pay the city $5,866 in restitution, and to consent to the destruction of graffiti-related items seized during the investigation. Cunningham was arrested in December of 2022 after a tagging spree that month targeting Town Square Park, Coolidge McClaine Park, local bridges, road signs and businesses. -- Stephen Floyd
School district settles student injury suit The Silver Falls School District (SFSD) has settled a personal injury lawsuit with a former Silverton Middle School student who slipped and broke a leg on a wet floor in 2017. On Dec. 21, 2023, Cramer vs. SFSD was dismissed in Marion County Circuit Court at the request of both parties after the district agreed to settle for $42,500. The agreement released the district from liability and did not constitute an admission of wrongdoing. The sum of the settlement is to be paid to the plaintiff through the district’s insurer Property and Casualty for Education (PACE). In a statement to Our Town, the district said it was “happy that it was able to work with PACE to get this matter resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.” Prior to the settlement, the matter was set for trial Jan. 22.
14 • February 2024
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The plaintiff, represented by guardian ad litem Kimberly Cramer, sued SFSD Nov. 29, 2022, seeking $369,501 for injuries stemming from an incident Dec. 6, 2017, when plaintiff was 11 years old. Plaintiff claimed they entered a recently-mopped bathroom in Silverton Middle School and slipped, falling against the wall and floor and breaking their leg in multiple places. They sued for $43,153 in actual and future medical expenses, $1,348 for the expense of rescheduling a family vacation, and $325,000 for pain and suffering. The district admitted the plaintiff was a student at the time of the incident and said any injuries were the result of third parties not named in the suit. SFSD denied all wrongdoing. – Stephen Floyd
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Slipping through the cracks Reflections on a life lost By Melissa Wagoner When Jenna Keeton received a phone call from her mother alerting her that her father had died, she wasn’t surprised. “I had been preparing myself for his death for years,” Jenna admitted. “But I was expecting a heart attack or an overdose.” Instead, Jenna learned that her father, Joe Keeton – a man who had struggled with mental health issues, drug addiction and houselessness in Silverton for many years – had been fatally mauled by three pit bulls in an area outside Bend known as “Dirt World.” “I’ve never felt grief on that level,” Jenna said. Acknowledging that, while her relationship with her father had been a difficult one, the finality of his death was still devastating. “My dad was incredibly intelligent, hyper intelligent, and a real dude. He was a youth pastor in the ’90s,” Jenna said, describing her father’s early life before a back injury and a subsequent prescription for opioids reignited an addiction he had fought hard to leave behind. “When people give in to their addiction, that demon is powerful. And without proper support and love, to beat it is damn near impossible.” It’s a struggle Jenna knows all too well. “I’ve been fighting addiction since I was 12,” she said. “And I have won battles and lost battles… it takes a village. But when you don’t have one, you do what you’ve got to do.” For Joe that meant living on the streets of Silverton, where he often utilized the services of Sheltering Silverton. “Like the rest of Joe’s friends and family, I am still grieving his death and the
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particular horror of what he experienced in his last hours and minutes…” Sheltering Silverton’s founder and Executive Director Sarah White said. “My primary frustrations are with the many systems that failed Joe during his life, my own inability to get him into stable housing with the support he deserved, and the loss of all of Joe’s talent and energy.”
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And yet Kansas – who has struggled with her own addiction at times – is not without empathy for McCleery, a woman whose story reminds her of Joe’s.
“He was once a very attractive, intelligent, passionate, kind man,” Joe’s oldest daughter, Kansas, said. “We loved him deeply.” But that love did not mean she or her sisters were equipped to take care of their father.
A Keeton family photo from the 1990s with Joe Keeton (in hat) with his father and three of his daughters as children. COURTESY AUTUMN KEETON
“My dad left us when I was 12 years old,” she said, “so there was certainly nothing I could do about it, and I wouldn’t have even if I could, because that was never my responsibility.”
the arrest and eventual sentencing of the person found responsible for Joe’s death, owner of the three dogs, Jessica Rae McCleery. “I am happy that someone was held accountable, and I’m very happy that a precedent has been set around maintaining dangerous animals,” Kansas said, recalling her reaction to the threeyear prison sentence McCleery received. “I’m also relieved that the state was so quick to prosecute over the death of a homeless man, something I wasn’t sure would be a very high priority. The other positive is that the outcome establishes that even seemingly lawless encampments like Dirt World have legal boundaries.”
In the end, both daughters had a complicated relationship with their father, despite continued estrangement. “It’s frustrating the ways my dad was failed by his family and the system,” Jenna said, describing the feeling that she could have, and should have, done more to help her father. “I’m an adult now and he needed me… I have to deal with that.” “It leaves an acrid taste in my mouth that I’ll never hear his voice again,” Kansas echoed, “or look into his eyes that so starkly resemble my own. It hurts something fierce.”
And yet, McCleery’s prosecution does not erase Joe’s death. “Does it change what happened? Of
And the pain hasn’t decreased, even with
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“Not only was she maintaining very dangerous dogs, she was proud of them, and she let them wander around to hunt victims like my dad,” Kansas said. Admitting, “I had greatly hoped that she would be held accountable for being so grossly unconcerned about the safety of others.”
Because, while Joe’s mental illness and addiction to drugs were often severe, those who cared for him continued to hope that he would eventually receive the help he needed.
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“[I]t gives me no pleasure to put a woman away for three years,” she said. “I am sure that part of the reason for her negligence was her substance abuse issues, and I have compassion for that. I hope she does a great deal of self-reflection while she serves her time.” Similarly, John Friedrick – who befriended Joe during his time in Silverton and has since followed McCleery’s trial – said, “[I] hope that Jessica McCleery gets to experience a better and safer life in the future, one where her needs are met and our society refuses to abandon her or anyone else. As an unhoused person, her life is already much harder than most of us can imagine. If she had been safely housed perhaps Joe would still be with us.” But the fact remains that Joe is gone and those who cared for him will never know how his life might have ended. “I don’t know that he ever would have turned his life around,” Kansas admitted, “but I do know that now he’ll never have the chance.”
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Football changes Foxes get new league The Silverton High football program will be facing some new league opponents starting this fall. The Foxes will remain in Class 5A but will be moving out of the Mid-Willamette Conference and into a new league that will include four MWC teams and two from the Northwest Oregon Conference, including perennial state power Wilsonville.
Canby from many years ago and create a new one with Wilsonville, who always runs a great program.
The new football-only league, part of a series of recommendations by an OSAA ad hoc committee, was approved by the OSAA board on Feb. 5, and will feature Silverton, Wilsonville, Canby, Central, McKay and Woodburn. The MWC for football for at least the next two school years will consist of Corvallis, Crescent Valley, South Albany, West Albany, Lebanon and Dallas. The MWC will continue as a ten-team league for sports other than football.
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So why is this happening? It’s kind of a trickle down thing. Aloha and Glencoe are moving down from 6A to 5A and into the Northwest league. LaSalle is moving up from 4A to 5A and into the Northwest league. And in an effort to prevent two ten-team leagues the OSAA is splitting Wilsonville and Canby off from the Northwest and forming a six-team MWC. Ten-team football leagues are problematic because they do not include opportunities for non-league games.
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So is this a good idea? Here are some thoughts:
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First, it represents more change and the OSAA, in my view, already tinkers too much with its district structures. Since 2017 Silverton has spent one year in a seven-team league, two years in an eight-team league, one year in a nine-team league and three years in a ten-team league. McKay comes in, Woodburn goes out, North Salem comes in and goes out, Woodburn comes back in, West Albany returns from 6A to 5A. And on and on. Yes, I know the OSAA is trying to maximize the potential competitiveness of schools and individual programs, but you can’t legislate parity and, particularly at the high school level, you are always going to see success stories come (or not come) despite enrollment figures or the other factors the OSAA uploads into its computers. Overall, it’s too much change. Teams should play with teams in their regions and traditional leagues should be preserved as much as practical. And it is always funky when you are in one league for one sport and in another for the rest of them.
“We will still be members of the MidWillamette Conference for all our other athletic programs. I think it is exciting and will be fun to be a part of such a competitive league. Coach Lever will have the program ready for the new challenges.” Silverton and Canby, Jones is correct to point out, used to play in the same Class 4A league (with McMinnville, Newberg, Woodburn, Dallas, Forest Grove, Tigard and Tualatin) before the OSAA went to a six-class system in the fall of 2006. And in a juicy bit of serendipity Foxes third-year coach Dan Lever is a Canby graduate. “It’s weird not playing a nonleague game,” Lever told OSAA Today’s Jerry Ulmer about the outgoing-tenteam format. “What we’re probably going to see is more 5A-6A crossovers in those nonleague games, which is good. There’s a lot of good 5A football being played.” Lever noted that the Foxes will lose their longest-term rival, Dallas, but the coach told Our Town the Dragons would be a high priority for a non-league matchup. “I have 70-year-old men coming up to me and talking about wanting to beat Dallas,” Lever said. “It would be great to renew that game.” Lever also echoed the words of his AD when he concluded, “I’m one of those guys who… just tell me who we’ve got and what time the bus leaves, when kickoff is, and let’s go strap it up and play ball. You can’t control who you play, but you can control how you play.” It also must be stated that putting Silverton and Wilsonville into the same football league is a juicy prospect. And it also should be noted that Wilsonville and Canby are closer to Silverton than any of the Albany or Corvallis schools. “It’ll be a good one, that’s for sure,” Lever said of the Wilsonville matchup. In the past ten years the Foxes and Wildcats each have won a 5A title, Wilsvonille has finished second on three occasions (to one for the Foxes) and both schools have made three other appearances in the semifinals. They played each other once, in the 2022 quarterfinals, with Wilsonville taking a 39-26 victory at Randall Stadium.
Silverton officials are fine with the change.
Yes, the delicious West Albany league rivalry the Foxes have had during roughly that same ten-year period (Silverton won seven of the 12 games and the teams split six playoff encounters) would go away, unless Lever and Jones can sked the Bulldogs in the nonleague campaign.
“We will be very competitive in the league,” Foxes Athletic Director Andy Jones told Our Town. “Coach (Dan) Lever has a great core of returners, and the feeling is just tell us where we are playing and our kids will be there ready to play. It will rekindle an old rivalry with
The football changes will not affect Kennedy. The Trojans still will play in the same Class 3A league for football and play in Class 2A for all other sports. JFK moved up to 3A for football two years ago when the OSAA shifted 2A to a nine-man approach.
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Sports roundup Silverton cheer returns to competitions By James Day
On Monday, Feb. 12 the Trojans were scheduled to participate in the TriRiver playoffs, which should be a meatgrinder, with No. 1 Western Christian, No. 2 Regis, No. 7 Willamina and No. 11 Colton also in the mix. The TRC sent six teams to the round of 16 a year ago and five to Pendleton (where Salem Academy, Western Christian and Kennedy took the top three trophies).
Silverton High has returned to competitive cheerleading. The Foxes took second at a meet at Lakeridge, the first such participation by the school in approximately a decade. Stacey Spears, who has more than a decade of experience with the Future Foxes, is coaching the squad, which continues to have a cheer presence on the sidelines at football games. A total of 25 members are on hand at McGinnis Field for football, with 12 participating in competition cheer. On the competition squad are senior Brianna Koster; juniors Samantha Saunders, Brooklyn Smith and Nova Graham; sophomores Chloe Koster, Macie Cox and Saylor Graham; and freshmen Jordyn Spears, Neeva Gigena, Saydee Kuenzi, Reese Miller and Mahaylah Richardson. Coach Spears is assisted by Gianna Moreno. “Things this season have been interesting to say the least,” Coach Spears told Our Town, “but the girls have overcome and worked even harder to make it is what it is today.” Fishing: Javan Austin, a 16-year-old Silverton resident, reeled in the biggest fish of his young life on Sunday, Jan 21. Austin, who was out in a boat with friend Noah Lampa, caught a rainbow trout that weight 6 ¾ pounds and was 24 inches long. He used a spinner with stock line on a spinning reel he received for Christmas. Unfortunately the holiday gift did not include a net and Noah had to “bear hug” the fish into the boat at the end of the ten minutes it took Javan to land it. See the photo on page 3. It was the largest fish that Javan has caught by more than four pounds, reports his mother, Heather, who added that “it was the best day for both boys.” Wrestling: Silverton participates in the Mid-Willamette conference district championships Feb. 16-17 at the Salem Armory. The Foxes went 7-2 in dual meets and coach Jared Wilson told Our Town “we have a lot of new kids to the sport and I feel they have come a long way. Our experienced kids have done a good job showing them how to do things the right way. They have worked hard as a team, and I look forward to watching
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The cheerleading squad for Silverton High, which has returned to competitions for the first time in a decade. SUBMITTED PHOTO
them compete and finish the season successfully.” Brash Henderson (27-1), Bo Zurcher (28-3), Kingston Meadors (23-4) and are talking sterling records into the boys bracket as well as standout girls wrestler McKayla Bonham (16-2). Other athletes that Wilson is looking to score points are Dalton Ritchie (boys) and Ella Lulich (girls).
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“They all have opportunities to complete for district titles,” Wilson said. “Our district is deep/tough, and they will all have to wrestle focused and determined to achieve their goals.” Boys Basketball: Kennedy took third place in Class 2A a year ago with a rotation that was essentially all seniors. But in a tribute to coach Karl Schmidtman and his new corps of athletes the Trojans are looking like a threat to return to Pendleton for the state tournament. At Our Town’s presstime the Trojans were 18-6 overall, 11-4 in the brutally tough Tri-River Conference and ranked 6th in Class 2A. Schmidtman’s three returnees, Brody Kleinschmit, Cole Vogel and Jaydon Estrada, all obviously learned a lot from the 2022-23 team and have been team leaders. All-around athletes Jeremiah Traeger and Elijah Traeger joined the team as seniors and freshman
Alumni Watch: Sean Mannion, the son of former Foxes football coach John Mannion, has retired from the NFL and has taken a job as an assistant coach with the Green Bay Packers. The younger Mannion was a record-setting quarterback at Oregon State before being drafted in the third round of the NFL draft. Mannion played for the Rams, Vikings and Seahawks. He played for his father in high school in Pleasanton, California. The elder Mannion coached at Silverton from 2010-17, his teams advancing to the 5A title game in 2014 and reaching the semifinals two other times.
Youth Sports for the Spring
Volleyball Grades: Third – Sixth
Flag Football Grades: First – Sixth
Middle School Track & Field Grades: Sixth – Eighth Micro Soccer Ages: 3 – 5
Aquatics for the Spring
Swim Lessons: ages 2 and up Private Lessons: ages 2 and up Swim Team: Three different levels are offered
Families Aquacize • Pickleball Questions? Contact Kristi at khorner@theyonline.org
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February 2024 • 17
A Slice of the Pie
Actions greater than words Supporting a grieving friend By Melissa Wagoner
during a significant holiday.
In the days leading up to my 17th birthday, my grandfather unexpectedly passed away. The days that followed were – unsurprisingly – a blur. But there were moments, mostly having to do with the way the community stepped forward to support us, the grieving family, that have stuck with me through all these years.
“[T]he people who kept checking on me long after the funeral, remembering important dates (birthday, anniversary of death, etc.), and making sure we knew that they would remember our son with us, forever.”
First, I recall the food – the refrigerator packed and the countertops lined with casseroles – so helpful with crowds of family and friends flowing through my grandmother’s house and no one up to the task of cooking. And then there were the cards – stacks of them – which brought us together – the women in our family sitting under an unseasonably warm spring sun, skimming the impersonal, reading the notable aloud. It was a moment of joy during an otherwise sad and confusing time, the cards, a visual representation of the lives my grandfather had touched. It was those small gestures and so many
more that helped my family get through weeks of heartache. And so, it has been to these same gestures that I have returned when someone I love is facing hardship or grief – I’ve made food and I’ve written cards. But recently I’ve begun to wonder, is there more that I could be doing to be of service when a loved one is in need? And so, I conducted some research and asked a few friends: what is one thing someone did or said when you were going through a tough time that really helped? The answers were enlightening. • Don’t be afraid to reach out. Call, text or send a personal note – let them know you are thinking about them, especially on the date of a major medical procedure or
• Be direct. Know what you are willing to provide and ask if you can provide it. That can mean delivering groceries or a meal, organizing a meal train, cleaning the house, mowing the lawn, walking the dog, taking the kids to school, delivering items to the hospital, giving the primary caregiver a break or providing transportation to an appointment or procedure.
just listen to me grieve. Don’t wait till I’m ready.” • Instead of sending flowers, consider purchasing a gift card to a meal service or a nearby restaurant that offers take out. “Grief groceries.... or gift cards for food that just showed up. What a blessing.” • Physically be there. But stay home if you are sick or think you might become sick and don’t overstay your welcome. • When listening to your loved one’s story, remember that every situation is unique, and their experience is different than your own.
“Actions are greater than words in this scenario. I can’t tell you the amount of times I heard ‘I’m sorry.’ It actually never helped.”
“[Someone] offered to come have tea with me and let me be in grief with tears… not having to talk… then made me a nourishing meal later and told me silly stories.”
• Remember your loved one’s favorites. Drinks, foods, movies or music.
• Ask, “How are you doing?” and then wait for the complete answer.
“Bring me a coffee, invite me out for a beer or grab a taco at lunch. Sit down and
“She showed up and just listened and walked with me. Just. Simple. Heroic.”
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