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Light up the sky July 3rd Garden festivities
Get ready for a evening of family friendly activities when The Oregon Garden presents its annual July Third Fireworks Celebration, presented by Roth’s Fresh Markets.
Plans call for delicious food, excellent music, fun activities, and more than 80 acres of garden to explore. Doors open at 5 p.m. Live music begins at 7 p.m. The spectacular 15-minute firework display starts at approximately 10 p.m.
This year’s event features live music by Inner Limits, Giggle Britches the Clown, face painting, and the Art in the Garden art walk. Food and drink vendors include: Adam’s Ribs Smokehouse, The Chop Spot Kona Ice, Bo & Vine Burger Bar, The Dawg House, Travel Taphouse, Bobablastic, El Pique Mexican Food, and Jenuine Desserts.
Event admission begins at 5 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door, but purchasing in advance gets Garden guests through the gate more quickly and helps The Oregon Garden estimate attendance. Adult admission for those 13 and over is $10. Youth admission for those 5 to 12 is $5. Children four and under and Garden Members with an active membership card to show are free. For more information visit https://oregongarden.org/event/july-3rdfireworks-celebration/.
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Fourth of July ‘Red, White & Blue’ parade, fireworks return to Mount Angel
Mount Angel is gearing up for the annual Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks Celebration.
The event is organized by the Mount Angel Chamber of Commerce with support from local donors, including title sponsors Roth’s Fresh Markets and Mount Angel Oktoberfest.
“We work hard to improve the show each year and are very grateful to Oktoberfest and Roth’s for their continued support to help us afford the best firework show possible!” said Chamber officials.
This year’s theme is Red, White and Blue, with flower baskets reflecting the theme throughout town.
Residents can expect the return of many colorful parade floats as well as some new entries as community members and businesses compete for first place in the Best Float competition. Parade entries are accepted until 10 a.m. on the 4th. Cost to sign up is $25 per entry.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. at Kennedy High School parking lot on E. Marquam Street. It will proceed down Birch and Taylor, then follow South Garfield Street to the Weingarten.
The festivities begins at 8 p.m. at the athletic field between the high school and Mt. Angel Middle School. The evening will begin with a performance by Marion County Citizen’s Band, the official concert band of Oktoberfest.
Residents will be able to buy refreshments including shortcake and root beer floats, with proceeds benefiting the high school cross country team and the Knights of Columbus. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at dusk (approximately 10 p.m.) just beyond the athletic fields.
“We look forward to celebrating Independence Day with all of you!” said the Chamber website proclaims.
Fireworks display at The Oregon Garden. JIM KINGHORN
Be prepared
Emergency tips July 13 at new City Hall
The Silverton Fire District and other government agencies and community groups are hosting a public meeting on emergency preparations beginning 11 a.m. Saturday, July 13.
The event runs until 2 p.m. at Silverton’s new city hall, 410 N Water St.The program is designed to assist families with emergency preparations and give them the tools and knowledge to protect property and loved ones.
Here is a look at what the session will include:
• Safety workshops and emergency vehicle tours.
• Presentations by local emergency responders and hands-on experience with safety equipment.
• Opportunities to learn the basics about how you and your family can be prepared for emergencies of all types.
• Information on the many resources that are available within and around our communities.
• Information about volunteer opportunities within our area.
Everyone is welcome to join in and discover how they can be prepared.
Black Butte prize tops SACA July 27 gala
Silverton Area Community Aid is hosting its annual fundraising gala from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 27 at Vanderbeck Valley Farm, 37791 Highway 213.
The farm is about six miles outside of Silverton, just before you get to Marquam.
Tickets for the event cost $75 and include hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and dessert catered by Wooden Nickel. the evening includes live music by Basso à Deux.
Participants will be able to bid on silent and live auction packages.
There will be a prize drawing for a three-night stay at Black Butte in Central Oregon. Only 100 tickets –
$100 each – will be sold at for the drawing. You need not be present at the gala to win.
The prize was donated by Trudi and Evan Schmidt and features a two bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom condo that sleeps six, with access to multiple pools, tennis courts, gyms, pickle ball courts, two golf courses, and gorgeous views of the Sisters area.
The deadline for gala dinner ticket purchases is July 23, with July 26 the final day for prize drawing purchases.
Go to silvertonareacommunityaid.org/ gala to buy gala or prize drawing tickets or assist in sponsoring the event.
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By Stephen Floyd
The Silver Falls School District (SFSD) has put forward a budget reflecting steep cuts for the 2024-25 school year, though multiple unknowns remain and changes are expected.
The SFSD Budget Committee signed off on the $80 million budget June 12. The SFSD Board was expected to vote on the proposal during a budget hearing June 26, after Our Town press deadline.
The district is required by state law to pass a balanced budget by June 30, but any budget passed remains fluid and can be amended. Administration officials told the committee June 12 that adjustments were expected in the near future as the district gains a clearer picture of revenue and expenses and strives to keep the budget tight.
“A budget is a plan. It will change,” said Interim Director of Finance Kim Doud. “... The majority of the revenue(s) in this budget are estimates.”
SFSD entered this budget cycle with a goal of cutting $8.8 million in expenses to restore depleted reserves and better-align spending with revenue. This came after a budget analysis in April revealed a pattern of overspending since 2021 that resulted in a $4 million deficit during the 2023-24 school year including a $1.3 million cash shortfall.
In a budget message presented to the committee, Interim Superintendent Joe Morelock said deficit spending was the result of multiple administrative missteps. These included incorrect revenue projections, over-staffing after enrollment drops, over-reliance on COVID relief funds, and overspending in multiple departments.
Morelock also noted previous budgeting cycles focused on budgets for each individual school rather than the district as a whole. He said this made it difficult to gauge the full scope of district finances. He cautioned the committee against using this approach in the future.
The $8.8 million in cuts is meant to correct these errors and replenish depleted reserves, as well as pay for one-time expenses associated with the previous year’s deficit, said Doud. These include repayment of a $3.8 million bridge loan and an estimated $1.24 million increase in unemployment payouts after layoffs in May.
Roughly 60 positions were eliminated district-wide as part of a reduction in force to help reach the expense-cut target. As positions were eliminated, some employees received job reassignments.
Doud told the committee the district must avoid the need for another bridge loan by closely tracking revenue and expenses and adjusting the budget as needed.
Adjustments are expected as unknown expenses become clearer such as the cost of a vendor contract for food services, to be finalized June 30, and the availability of federal reimbursement funds for food services. There were also uncertainties
in state formulas for school funding, particularly for special education, as officials were still revising the plans for payouts, said Doud.
The budget also projects a possible enrollment drop, based on the estimated number of incoming kindergarteners. It predicts 50 fewer students districtwide. Actual figures will not be known until the fall.
Morelock said the district must carefully adjust the budget once actual revenue and expenses become clear because the current budget is “very tight.” Morelock said they had left little wiggle room in order to strike a balance between operating within the district’s means and minimizing cuts. He said any overspending would likely require additional layoffs.
Morelock acknowledged the district is in a difficult position, but added if SFSD can stay within budget during the 202425 school year, the following year it can look to restoring and rebuilding.
Changing of the guard Busch leaves Silver Falls for North Marion
By Stephen Floyd
Former Silver Falls School District
(SFSD) Assistant Superintendent Dan Busch has become superintendent of North Marion School District (NMSD) as of July 1, marking near-complete turnover of top district administrators.
NMSD announced the hire in a press release June 7. Busch was selected to fill the seat vacated by former Superintendent Ginger Redlinger, who resigned in 2023.
Busch told Our Town he feels wellprepared for his new position in light of the challenges faced by SFSD during his time there. These included two abrupt superintendent resignations, a global pandemic and protracted union negotiations.
Busch said what he loved the most about working in Silver Falls were the individual relationships.
“The quality of human beings in [SFSD] is what makes this district so special,” said Busch. “Even in the most difficult
of circumstances, people never forgot to care for others first and that our ultimate job is to care for the students we serve.”
Busch joined SFSD on July 1, 2019, one day after the resignation of former Superintendent Andy Bellando. Busch served as acting superintendent for one month until an interim superintendent was brought on board.
As assistant superintendent Busch led the district’s human resources department and collective bargaining teams. This included efforts to renegotiate PERS benefits for non-teacher employees in 2020, and the regular contacts for teachers in 2021 and non-teachers in 2022. These negotiations were marked by contentions over pay and benefits amid significant shifts in the education industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When former Superintendent
Scott Drue resigned suddenly March 13, Busch was again acting superintendent until Interim Superintendent Joe Morelock began April 3.
Morelock, who departed SFSD June 30, told the SFSD Board June 10 Busch’s former position would be eliminated and replaced with a director of human resources. Morelock said the responsibilities of the new role would essentially be similar, but with a pay reduction.
Busch’s departure marks near-complete turnover of top district positions during the 2023-24 school year.
Facilities Director Jeff Alderman began July 1, 2023, after the retirement of former Facilities Director Lorin Stanley.
Controller Kim Doud became interim director of finance March 11 after former Director of Finance & Operations Steve Nielsen departed for a similar position with Oregon Charter Academy.
This month Kim Kellison steps into the interim superintendent position on a twoyear contract. Morelock served SFSD while “on loan” from the Willamette Education Services District and returns to his position there.
Former Scotts Mills Principal Kirstin Jorgenson took over as Silverton High School Principal July 1. Prior SHS Principal Sione Thompson resigned April 2 to become executive director for TEACH Las Vegas.
The positions of route coordinator, communications and community relations coordinator, and director of teaching and learning were eliminated during recent reductions in force.
The sole directorship without turnover was director of IT, held by Brett Milliken.
Former Assistant Superintendent Dan Busch. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Water issues
By James Day
The Silverton City Council passed its regular budget for 2024-25 and one for its urban renewal agency at its June 17 meeting at the Silverton Community Center.
Council discusses reservoir, swimming hole access, passes budget
Councilor April Newton added “We’ve been hearing about problems up there for years and it would be great if we could do something.”
But both spending plans, which total approximately $79 million, involved little councilor discussion and no amendments were offered. The budgets passed unanimously, and the largest chunk of time at the session was spent on marine parks and swimming holes.
Councilors discussed challenges at Silverton Marine Park but have not yet developed a plan to address them. They also heard via email from resident Kevin Pack, who also spoke during the public comment period at their June 3 meeting. Pack expressed concerns about parking gridlock and challenges loading and unloading boats at the reservoir.
Councilors and city staff engaged in their most-spirited discussions during councilor communication time on June 17 to talk about the reservoir and the less-well-known swimming hole on Peach Street.
City Manager Cory Misley said he made a site visit to the reservoir after hearing from Pack. “We need to have a bigger conversation on it. What do we want it to look like in 10 years? We can look at a boat dock piece, but there is nothing that we can do in the short term on capacity or parking lot.”
The city’s parks and recreation master plan, which was not mentioned by councilors or staff, lists a series of projects that could improve the situation at the reservoir. Its “medium” priority left it 12th on the list.
The plan lists entry enhancement, “green” parking lot and composting restroom upgrades, a loop nature trail and interpretive displays, a feasibility study on a foot bridge over Silver Creek below the dam, Silver Creek access for canoes and kayaks, picnic facilities, “exploring the efficiency of parking lot capacity and alternate modes of transportation” and acquiring 50 acres for water quality protection.
The plan lists $1 million as the cost for improvements. It is not clear if all of the upgrades could be managed for that, or if the reservoir work might move up the priority list.
Councilors also discussed a swimming hole off of Peach Street that is on city property yet with no defined access or amenities. Mayor Jason Freilinger and others expressed concerns about possible liability issues.
“We should either put up no trespassing signs or treat it as a park by adding garbage cans, signs and rules,” Freilinger said. He noted options include giving away property or selling it.
In other council news:
• Councilor Eric Hammond has been named to a justformed statewide panel that is charged with evaluating and awarding grants for green infrastructure programs. Hammond, who is in his first term on the council, is representing Sustainable Silverton. The Department of Land and Conservation Development has allocated $6.5 million in state funds to spend on the program.
Green infrastructure includes infrastructure that includes or mimics natural systems, such as urban green space, parks, rain gardens, bioswales and trees. The goal is to provide an array of social, environmental, and economic benefits.
“Generally, I think anything Silverton can do to position itself as a competitive bidder on grant applications is a really good thing,” Hammond told Our Town. “We should maximize the quantity of grant dollars we bring into our community. This will give me a window into that process.”
• Silverton extended its agreement with the Silver Falls YMCA to operate the municipal pool. The contract, which is renewed annually, requires the city to pay the YMCA $50,000 per year.
The vote to renew the deal was unanimous.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 3RD, 2023 • 5 PM -
Proposals welcome Grants for civic ed
By James Day
A Salem-based foundation is offering $100,000 in scholarships and grants to schools, programs and organizations in Oregon that teach civic engagement and government.
The Oregon State Capitol Foundation’s Civics Education Program begins accepting applications for the funds from July 1 through Sept. 30. To apply and for more general information go to www. oregoncapitolfoundation.org or call 503-3631859.
The program aims to empower students and adults to actively participate in Oregon’s democracy, engage in local and statewide decision-making and inspire them to make a difference.
“Oregon has always had strong citizen participation in building a better democracy and improving our quality of life,” said foundation board chair Bob Repine. “Our Civics Education program goal is to keep Oregon’s citizeninvolvement efforts strong.”
The foundation has spent $150,000 on grants 2022. Here is a look at the seven recipients in the 2023 round of grants, which totaled $80,000:
• The Civics Learning Project, for an extracurricular high school program focused on constitutional issues and national competitions;
• Girl Scouts of Oregon and SW Washington, to expand activities for a civics education badge;
• Next Up, a nonprofit that mobilizes teenagers to organize, engage and vote;
• The Oregon Business and Industry Foundation, for a school-based statewide civics contest;
• Politisit, to provide childcare support for parents attending public agency meetings;
• The Portland State University Foundation, for its NEW Leadership Oregon program to train aspiring local and state leaders; and
• Young Leaders, for a high school summer camp program where governing systems are experienced and explored.
Silverton residents hoping to start tool lending library
Members of Sustainable Silverton are hoping to start a
library in the
The group has received start-up money from a local backer and is developing a plan to start a lending program for residents. The goal of the library is to provide, at as low a cost as possible, tools for those who only need temporary use of the tool and do not want to make an investment in expensive tools that then need to be stored in the garage or on a shelf.
Tools might range from lawn mowers, string trimmers, and wheelbarrows, to power saws and sanders. Like a
book library, when a person is done with the tool, they bring it back so it can get loaned out again and again.
Similar tool libraries have been set up in Eugene, Corvallis, Portland and Gates.
Sustainable Silverton currently is working to find a location for the library, and to determine which tools would be most used. The group hopes to have the library up and running later this year.
Those interested in learning more about the project, can volunteer to help or have tools or perhaps even a space to donate are encouraged to contact Jim Esch at jimbob.esch@gmail. com.
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By Melissa Wagoner
The Silver Falls School District’s nursing team has lost two of its most seasoned members to retirement. Suellen Nida and Geralyn Sheets each have been with the district for over 20 years – with Sheets also acting as Silverton High School’s Health Occupations instructor – and will be missed by students as well as colleagues.
“Geralyn and Suellen paved the paths that are now our School Nurse Program,” the district’s current lead nurse, Leslie Kuhn, said, “in an environment and setting where putting education and health together is challenging, I’m so grateful for the work and heart they put into our schools, children, and community…”
Suellen Nida
A nurse for more than 40 years, Nida got her start in the neuro-ICU, before moving on to pediatrics where she spent the next 25 years. Then an advertisement for a part-time position as a school nurse caught her eye.
“[It] was my ideal job, to work with kids in my community and have an amazing schedule after being a nurse in a hospital,” Nida remembered.
But she didn’t have any prior experience as a school nurse.
“I didn’t have much training,” she confirmed. “But I just went for it.”
Joining a staff that included only two district nurses, Nida got to know both the students and staff very quickly.
“There were some days I went to all the schools except the high school,” she recalled. “It was divide and conquer.”
As tiring as it often was, Nida has never regretted her choice to become a school nurse. In fact, she has been reluctant to retire. But during the past two years, ongoing health issues – the result of a pituitary gland tumor she had removed – have left her little choice.
“Getting into retirement has been hard,” she said.
But, with a plan to spend more time with her six grandchildren and traveling the country with her husband, Paul, in place, Nida is slowly making peace with the future.
“It was my dream job, it really was,” she said. “But, now that I’m gone, I think we picked a really good team.” One that will continue her legacy.
Geralyn Sheets
Upon graduation from nursing school, Sheets started her career as a nurse in the Cardiology Department at St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland. But then her husband, Paul, got a job in Silverton and an entirely new path opened before her.
“I was working at Willamette Valley Hospice, and I saw an ad for a teacher and a school nurse,” Sheets recalled. “I applied and got it. That was in September 2002.”
Hitting the ground running as both Silverton High School’s school nurse and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department’s Occupational Health instructor, Sheets began developing curriculum as well as taking the necessary courses to become a certified CTE teacher.
“I had five years to complete it,” Sheets remembered. “And my son was seven at the time.”
Establishing a program that has allowed a select number of seniors to explore various healthcare occupations both inside the classroom and in the community each year, Sheets has influenced hundreds of students to enter the medical profession. “It was honestly one of the first exposures
Fellow nurses Geralyn Sheets and Suellen Nida MELISSA WAGONER
that I had to healthcare in a career sense,” Brianna Hupp – a pediatric nurse who recently began working alongside Sheets as a district nurse – said. “This program was fundamental in my education. She made it such a wonderful experience.”
Also influenced to become a nurse and then, for a time, a fellow CTE educator for the Willamette Career Academy in Salem, former student, Emily Neves, said, “Being part of Mrs. Sheets’ class was incredibly formative for me in my career path. Job shadowing in a wide variety of medical settings changed my career trajectory and gave me the confidence to pursue additional learning in order to find the right niche for me.”
It’s a lesson Sheets worked hard to instill in her students.
“I never thought I’d be here, doing this, but it’s been a wonderful opportunity,” Sheets pointed out. “You have to find your place. I started out in the hospital and hated it. I try to convey to students; this is an opportunity to explore. We don’t have to believe that wherever we start is where we have to stay.”
She has also worked hard to give her students the skills to succeed in any career, regardless of whether they continued pursuing medicine once they left her class.
“I like them to believe you really do need to be professional,” Sheets explained, listing a unit on work ethic as one of the
first topics she covers.
“That’s something ingrained in me when I was younger. And the soft skills – be on time, show up… communication – these are skills applicable to any job. These are life skills…”
And, while many aspects of Sheets’ job have changed over the past 20 years –especially when it comes to technology’s role in both teaching and healthcare –there are some things that haven’t changed at all.
“I have the best students,” she emphasized, reflecting on the more than 400 she has taught during her career.
And while Sheets will no longer be there to oversee the 23 incoming seniors she has already enrolled for next year, she is hopeful the course will continue to be an important part of SHS’s curriculum.
“We’re growing the future,” she said. “These are the people who will be taking care of us.”
Sheets said she will miss her students more than any other aspect of her job, but nearing 65, she sees this as a good stopping place for her career.
“I go back and forth [about retiring] because the kids come up to me and say, why don’t you do another year? Or, who’s going to teach?” she said.
“But at some point, you just have to do something for yourself and if not now, when?”
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Students Abbey Tallent and Jimmy Rankin, with Health Occupations instructor Geralyn Sheets.
MELISSA WAGONER
Perseverance Eagle Scout finishes service project for Legacy Silverton
By Melissa Wagoner
When it came time for Naveen Ramos to choose the community project that would propel him to the highest rank in the Scouts BSA program (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America) he decided to think less outside the box and more outside the bench.
“Most [Scouts] make a bench,” Ramos said. But he wanted his project – the culmination of years of dedication and hard work – to mean a little bit more.
“I was born at this hospital,” Ramos said, explaining the origin of his final project – a shadow box timeline depicting Silverton Hospital’s history. “And my mom is the head of patient relations and administration… I used to come here as a little kid on weekends.”
But gaining the approval of his troop – Troop 503 in Canby, where Ramos attended high school – proved unexpectedly difficult.
“They thought it was too small,” Ramos remembered. “They were like, add in more objects.”
So, Ramos went back to the drawing board, contacting the Silverton Country Historical Society for their help in unearthing documents, photographs and medical implements that would illustrate the timeline, which begins with the first medical building – housed in the
private residence of Dr. Clarence Keene in 1914 – and culminates with the current configuration of the Legacy Silverton Medical Center.
“I found a picture of one of the original doctors,” Ramos said, referencing a graduation photo he prominently displayed of Dr. Keene, “and a bond for the first Silverton Hospital Association.”
Finally receiving his troop’s approval, Ramos turned his
sights on gaining the hospital administration’s permission to display the finished shadow box in a high-traffic area. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a triple change in leadership intervened.
“It was dang near impossible,” Ramos said, recalling how the project languished in his mother’s office for over two years. “From there I gave up a little… but it was bugging me. I was so close.”
And so, he decided to give it one last try.
“There was a lot of back and forth,” Ramos said.
But finally, after years of work, the installation made its way to one wall of the hospital’s new discharge area.
“A part of me still thinks it’s not done,” Ramos said, referring, not only to the shadow box, but also to his membership in Scouts BSA. “After doing Scouts my entire life, this was the one thing not done.”
And now, two years after Ramos received his credentials as an Eagle Scout, it is.
“It’s definitely taught me a lot,” Ramos – who is now a 20-year-old graduate of Canby High School on the waitlist to receive training as an electrician from the NECA IBEW Electrical Training Center – said. “And I got to do something different, which is always my biggest thing.”
Eagle Scout, Neveen Ramos, posing by the shadow box installation he created for Legacy Silverton. MELISSA WAGONER
Spatial archiving OSU researchers scanning for secrets at Silver Falls
By James Day
Oregon State University researchers spent a day last April taking 3D scans and pictures of historic structures at Silver Falls State Park.
The goal of the research was to use the scan data to create digital models of the structures, including the South Falls Lodge, the South Falls Nature Store and the Stone Kitchen Shelter. The models will be publicly available online after the project is completed, and the full high-resolution 3D data will be shared with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
In addition, the researchers said, 3D models also provide a way to increase accessibility of historic sites, making it possible to view and learn about these structures virtually.
buildings, which date to the 1930s, survived the fires. Buildings in the Jawbone Flats area of the Opal Creek Wilderness and at Breitenbush did not fare as well.
“Jawbone Flats was really the impetus for me to pursue the Silver Falls Park project,” Kesterson said. “Most of the historic structures at Jawbone Flats were destroyed. That was a very special place, as anyone who visited knows. On my last visit to Opal Creek, I was aware of the use of Lidar and photogrammetry as tools for heritage preservation. I just didn’t have the means to do so at the time.
missing data once we fully review the scans. That would involve one or two more trips at most.”
Then the real work begins.
The key drivers for the research were the deadly 2020 wildfires that wreaked such havoc in Oregon, said Todd Kesterson of Mill City. Kesterson is the project director and an OSU new media communications instructor.
“I see this type of scanning as a proactive way to address potential loss of historic structures,” Kesterson said. “If we lose these structures, if there is any hope of rebuilding them to a high degree of accuracy, we need accurate 3-dimensional data. The tools we used on this project are the best way to capture that information.”
The good news is that the Silver Falls
“After the fires, I started looking at other historic sites that are at risk of loss due to wildfires. Silver Falls State Park was at the top of my list given my familiarity with it, and since fires burned some park land in 2020. I became even more concerned after fires again reached the park’s borders last summer. So this project is a direct response to my personal experience in losing places I really loved.”
The risk of wildfire and other natural disasters encroaching on state parks and other historic sites around the state is likely to increase with climate change, the researchers said. By creating 3D models of these structures, the OSU team aims to preserve the legacy of these buildings in the event of future destruction.
Kesterson said the researchers might return to Silver Falls “to capture any
“Processing the data to create 3-dimensional models will occur over the next year,” he said. “We will produce two versions of the models. One version will be a very detailed ‘point cloud’ of the structures, consisting of thousands of data points captured down to millimeter accuracy through Lidar scanning. That will go to the park service for their archives.
“Through photogrammetry we will create lower detail 3-dimensional models with links to historic photos and other information will be posted online for public access.”
The team aims to complete this phase of the project by April 2025.
Kesterson praised the participation of Michael Olsen, professor of geomatics, and assistant professor Ezra Che, who monitored the lidar scanning
and data processing conducted by graduate students in the school of Civil Engineering and Construction’s Geomatics department.
From an educational standpoint, this practical field experience will teach OSU students how to take accurate 3D scans and create digital models of physical structures.
Kesterson also said that his personal experience with the 2020 wildfires lent some urgency to the research.
“Like so many other people in the area, my wife and I evacuated Mill City with very little notice,” he said. “We ended up being alone on the road early in the morning. Seeing houses and forests burning on our way out of town, and later seeing the aftermath of burned forests and structures reminded me how quickly we can lose places that are very important to us. Priceless memories can’t be replaced, but many structures can be rebuilt. 3D scanning is a means of digitally protecting places before disaster hits.”
An Oregon State University researcher operates a scanner that is gathering information on the historic buildings at Silver Falls State Park. BLAKE BROWN, OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
Todd Kesterson of OSU, a Mill City resident, is leading the research project at Silver Falls. BLAKE BROWN, OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
Frequent Addresses
Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St. Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton. Silver Falls Library, 410 S Water St. Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. Silverton Community Center/Council Chambers, 410 N Water St. Weekly Events
Monday
Free Summer Breakfast, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., St. Mary’s Public Elementary, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. Free breakfast for kids younger than 18. All meals must be eaten on-site. Runs Monday - Friday through Aug. 15. stmarys.masd91.org
Low Impact Aerobics, 9:30 a.m., Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St., Silverton. Silverton Senior Center members free. Non-members $5. Repeats Wednesdays & Fridays.
SACA Food Pantry, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. Repeats 4 - 7 p.m. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - noon Thursdays. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org
Free Summer Lunch, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., St. Mary’s Public Elementary, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. Free lunch for kids younger than 18. All meals must be eaten on-site. Runs Monday - Friday through Aug. 15. stmarys.masd91.org
Silverton Recovery AA, noon - 1 p.m., 302 N Water St. Seven days a week. Free Monday Dinner, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Sitdown or to-go dinner. All welcome. Free. 503-873-5446, oakstchurch@gmail.com Tuesday
Scotts Mills Food Boxes, 9 - 11 a.m., Scotts Mills Community Center, 298 Fourth St. Residents in Scotts Mills/Butte Creek/Monitor rural areas welcome. Food donations welcome. Niki, 503-873-5059 Mt. Angel Senior Meals, 10:30 - 11 a.m. Delivery only. $3 donation suggested. Also Thursday. Ginger, 503-845-9464. APPY Hour, noon - 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Drop in for technical assistance for electronic devices. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Silverton Mainstay, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. Community space and activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Repeats Thursdays. silvertonmainstay.org Stories & STEAM, 4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Listen to a story about the theme of the week, join in a project. Snacks. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040 SACA Food Pantry, 4 - 7 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org
Growing Awareness, Nurturing
Compassion, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Zoom. Secular presentation promoting mindfulness. No experience needed. Invitation for virtual gathering: compassionatepresence@yahoo. com. 971-218-6641
Wednesday
Silverton Business Group, 8 a.m., Silver Falls Brewery, 207 Jersey St., Silverton. Networking meeting of Silverton business community hosted by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. silvertonchamber.org
Quilters Group, 9 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com
Silverton Senior Center Knit Wits, 10 a.m.
- noon, Silvertowne Apartment Clubhouse, 115 Mill St., No. 47, Silverton.
Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel
Public Library. Songs, stories, crafts. Age 25 with family members. Free. 971-370-5040
Indoor Playtime, 11 a.m. - noon, Mt. Angel Public Library. Play with toys, spend time with friends. Free. 971-370-5040
Mission Benedict Food Pantry, 1 - 4 p.m., St. Joseph Shelter, 925 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Repeats Friday. 503-845-2468
Silver Chips Woodcarving Sessions, 13 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. All skill levels. 503-873-4512.
Line Dancing, 1 - 1:55 p.m. (advanced) 22:55 p.m. (beginners), Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St., Silverton. Silverton Senior Center members free; $10 donation nonmembers. silvertonseniors.org Mission of Hope Food Pantry, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. 503-873-7353
Wednesday Weekly Market, 3 - 6 p.m., Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Produce, eggs, flowers, baked goods, hand-crafted items. rgembree@gmail.com, 503-971-9354.
Thursday
Community Coffee, 7 - 9 a.m., Scotts Mills Community Center, 298 Fourth St. Free. Yoga, 9 a.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Open to all. Sheila, 503-409-4498
Thursday Painters, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton Arts Association. Open studio. All art forms welcome. Free. 503-873-2480
Take Pounds Off Sensibly, 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. Weight loss with support, encouragement. Monthly dues $4. All welcome. David, 503-501-9824
Friday
Toastmaster Club, 7:30 a.m., Zoom. Increase listening skills, speaking, thinking, evaluating. Contact tmcommunicators@ gmail.com for Zoom link.
Mt. Angel Model Railroad, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Depot, 90 W College St., Mt. Angel. Lionel (O-gauge), HO-gauge, N-gauge model layouts. All ages welcome. Free. Silvertones Community Singers, 10:30 a.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 Main St. Open to all. 503-873-2033
Saturday
Ageless Yoga, 9 a.m., Total Body Health Club, 1099 N First St., Silverton. silvertonseniors.org
Silverton Farmers Market, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 204 W Main. silvertonfarmersmarket.com Al-Anon Families, 10 a.m., Zoom. For families and friends of alcoholics. Zoom link: Janet.h.salem23@gmail.com
Oregon Crafters Market, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., 215 N Water St., Silverton. Repeats Sunday noon - 5 p.m. First Friday session 6 - 9 p.m. only. oregoncraftersmarket.com
Silverton Country Museum, 1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Open for public viewing. Free admission. Repeats Sundays. 503-873-7070, silverton. museum@live.com
Silverton City Council
7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Open to public. Agenda available. Work session at 6:30 p.m. 503-873-5321, silverton.or.us
Mt. Angel City Council
7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. 503-845-9291, ci.mt-angel.or.us
Wednesday, July 3
Creciendo juntos/Growing Together Storytime, 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. ¡Atrévete a acompañarnos aprender juntos! ¡Atreves de leyendo libros bilingües podríamos hacer lo! Después abrirá una actividad para la familia. Through bilingual books and activities, learn simple words and phrases that help us communicate and grow together. 971-370-5040
Sunshine Fitness, 10 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Teens and adults explore different types of workouts using followalong videos. Free. 971-370-5040
The Art of Mindfulness, 2 p.m. Borland Gallery, 303 Coolidge St., Silverton. Connecting mind, heart, and body. Listen, meditate, contemplate, share thoughts. 971-218-6641
Peaceful Heart Meditation, 2 - 3 p.m., Silverton Community Center. Yoga breathing, kirtan and yoga philosophy. Free. peacefulheartkirtan@gmail.com
Just for Today AA, 6:30 p.m., Silverton Coffee Club, 302 N Water St., Silverton. mtangel.org/daddydash.
Monday, July 1
Military Sexual Trauma Support Group
6 - 7:30 p.m. Zoom. For those who have served or are serving in the military who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma. Group is facilitated by veterans and former service members with shared experience. Info: info@namimultnomah. org, 503-228-5692. Repeats July 15.
Music Mondays
6:30 - 8 p.m., Old Mill Park, 412 S Water St., Silverton. Today: The Junebugs. July 8: Inner Limits. July 15: Roundhouse Band. July 22: Marion County Citizens Band. July 29: Syco Billy’s String Band. Free; donations encouraged. Sarah, sweitzman@silvertonfriendsofmusic.org
Caregiver Connection 1 - 2:30 p.m., Zoom. Free educational support group for unpaid family caregivers caring for a loved one 60 years of age or older, or caring for a person living with dementia. For Zoom invite and to register, contact Julie Mendez, family caregiver support specialist at 503-304-3432.
Fireworks Celebration 5 - 10:30 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Food, live music, family activities, garden exploration and fireworks. $10/age 13+. $5 age 5-12. Children 4 and under and garden members free. $10 per car onsite parking. Free parking at Robert Frost School and Silverton Senior Center. oregongarden.org
Scotts Mills City Council
7 p.m., Scotts Mills City Hall, 265 Fourth St. Open to public. 503-873-5435
Thursday, July 4
Independence Day
St. James Chicken Dinner
9 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. James Church, 301 Frances St., Molalla. 65th annual chicken dinner with half a chicken, coleslaw, baked potato, roll, dessert. $15 for dinner. $9 for half chicken to go. Cash, checks, credit cards accepted. 503-260-6470
Mt. Angel Red, White & Blue Parade
11 a.m., downtown Mt. Angel. Fourth of July parade with ribbons for Best Float, Most Patriotic, Best Kid’s Entry and Best Classic Car. Entry forms at mtangelchamber.com.
Mt. Angel Fireworks Show
8 p.m., Mt. Angel Middle School, 460 E Marquam St. Live music by Marion County Citizen’s Band. Food, drink, shortcake and rootbeer floats on sale to benefit Kennedy cross country and Knights of Columbus. Fireworks begin at approximately 10 p.m. mtangelchamber.com
Friday, July 5
Lego Lab
Noon - 4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build a creation out of Legos. All ages. Free. Repeats July 19. 971-370-5040
Silverton First Friday
5 - 9 p.m., downtown Silverton. Car show, outdoor dining, Night Crafters Market, shopping, vendors and more. silvertonchamber.org
Lunaria First Friday
7 - 9 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Opening reception to meet the artists for July’s showings. Main Floor Gallery is “The Raw and the Refined,” ceramics by Lee Jacobson and paintings by Margaret Plumb. Loft Gallery is “Explorations in Water Media,” paintings by Kim Smith. Showings are viewable 11 a.m.5 p.m. through July 28. 503-873-7734
Monday, July 8
MASD Budget & School Board
6:30 p.m., District Office, 730 E Marquam St., Mt. Angel. Open to public. 503-845-2345 Silver Falls School District
7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Open to public. 503-873-5303, silverfallsschools.org
Tuesday, July 9
Ukulele Play and Sing-Alongs
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. First 30 minutes is beginner’s ukulele lesson followed by play and sing-along time for all skill levels. Music is provided but don’t forget to bring your ukulele. 503-873-8796
Wednesday, July 10
Craft Workshop
1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Decoupage seashells with color designs. Adults & teens. Free. Repeats 6 p.m., July 11. 971-370-5040
Italian Conversations
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Come practice your Italian. All levels welcome. 503-873-8796
Thursday, July 11
STREAMM
Noon - 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Explore Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, Math and Music at different activity stations. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Marion County Fair
Noon - 10 p.m., 2330 NE 17th St., Salem. See the animals. Ride the rides. Watch a show. Entry: $9 adults, $5 seniors & youth 6 - 11. Kids 5 and under are free. Sunday only: all kids 12 and under are free. Repeats 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. July 12-13, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. July 14. See marioncountyfair.net for more information.
Music on the Lawn
5:30 - 8 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Live music by Tuesday String Band, food, drinks, after-hours admission to The Oregon Garden. $10/ age 13 and older. $5 garden members, $50 season pass. Ages 12 and under free. Tickets at oregongarden.org.
LGBTQ+ Peer Support
7 - 8:30 p.m. Zoom. Peer-led mental health young adult support group for LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals ages 18-30. Free on a drop-in basis. Sponsored by National Alliance on Mental Illness. Visit tinyurl.com/ yalgbtqgroup to register. Repeats July 25.
Friday, July 12
Red Cross Blood Drive
Noon - 5 p.m., First Baptist Church, 229 Westfield St., Silverton. Visit redcrossblood.org for appointments.
The Next Friday
5 - 8 p.m., Mt. Angel. Music, cars, vendors, shopping and more. discovermtangel@ gmail.com
Next Friday Family Fun
5 - 7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Cupcake Walk to win treats. Play lifesize games. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040
All-Ages Game Night
6 - 9 p.m., Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Bring your favorite games. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. All ages welcome. Free admission. 971-267-9364, silvertongrange@gmail.com
Movie in the Park
9 - 11 p.m., Humpert Park, 400 Alder St., Mt. Angel. Watch Kung Fu Panda 4 (PG) on the big screen. Bring chairs and blankets. Free sno-cones and popcorn. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Saturday, July 13
People’s Art in the Park
9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Silverton Art Center, 303 Coolidge St. Visit local artists and craftspeople. Artwork for sale. Free admission. Joe, 503-873-8779
Tune Tours
7 p.m. Mt Angel Theater Studio, 220 E. Charles St. Live music in historic performance space. Donations suggested. 323-449-1183
Sunday, July 14
Scotts Mills Historical Museum
1 - 5 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave. Open for public browsing. Free. Open by appointment by contacting Joe Plas, 503-871-9803; Lois Ray, 503-8681765; Lynn Borek, 425-698-9016; smahsmuseum@gmail.com
Monday, July 15
Silverton City Council
7 p.m., Council Chambers, 410 N Water St., Silverton. Joint meeting of Silverton’s City Council and Planning Commission. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-873-5321, silverton.or.us
Tuesday, July 16
Mt. Angel Library Program
4 p.m., St. Mary’s School, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. Tour the Pacific Islands through dance, traditional costumes and narration with The Paradise of Samoa Polynesian Dance Troupe. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040
Affordable Housing Task Force
6:30 p.m., Council Chambers, 410 N Water St., Silverton. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-874-2207, silverton.us.or
Silver Falls Book Club
6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Discuss French Braid by Anne Tyler. 503-873-8796
Wednesday, July 17
Dementia Care Conversations
1 - 2 p.m. Zoom. Free group for unpaid caregivers providing support to a loved one living with dementia. Register: Julie Mendez at 503-304-3432 or julie.mendez@nwsds.org.
Teen Hangout
5 - 7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Hang out at the library, learn to line dance and play games. Light snacks provided. Teens. Free. 971-370-5040
Thursday, July 18
Trivia Night
7 - 8:30 p.m., Pub 210 East, 210 E Charles St., Mt. Angel. Test your knowledge and have fun. Up to five people per team. All ages. Presented by Mt. Angel Public Library. 971-370-5040
Mt. Angel Planning Commission
7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Open to public. 503-845-9291
Friday, July 19
Red Cross Blood Drive
Noon - 5 p.m., Elks Lodge, 300 High St., Silverton. Visit redcrossblood.org (sponsor code: ElksLodgeSilverton) or call 800-733-2767 for appointments.
Casino Royale
5:30 - 10 p.m., The Farm on Golden Hill, 11506 NE Kaufman Road, Silverton. Poker, Blackjack, drawings, live auction, VIP high roller room. $30 in advance at silvertonseniors.org. $40 at the door. Ages 21 and older. Benefits Silverton Area Seniors Inc. 503-873-3093
Saturday, July 20
Canterbury Renaissance Faire
10 a.m. - 6 p.m., 6569 Valley View Road, Silverton. Jousting, dancing, shopping and more. Adults $25/day. Age 6 - 12 and seniors 60 and older $20/day. Age 5 and under are free. $1 off for active military. Free parking. Repeats July 21, 27, 28. canterburyfaire.com.
Monday, July 22
Mt. Angel Park Tree Board
7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Open to public. 503-845-9291
Tuesday, July 23
Mt. Angel Library Program
4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. magician Jeff Evans creates incredible illusions, laughter and lots of audience interaction. All ages. 971-370-5040
PFLAG Silverton
7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St. Everyone welcome. Under 18 must have parent/guardian. Christy, 541786-1613, silvertonpflag@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 24
Craft Workshop
1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Brighten up your space with a festive summer sign. Adults & teens. Free. Call 971-370-5040 to reserve a spot.
Friends of Silver Falls Library
6 - 7 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Board meeting. Open to public.
Thursday, July 25
Mt. Angel Book Discussion
1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss They Called Us Enemy by George Takei. All are welcome. Free. 971-370-5040
Teen Advisory Board/Book Club
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Teens (grades 6-12) help collaborate with library on programs, collections, games and more. Snacks provided. Book Club meets for the first 30 minutes to discuss Saints of the Household by Ari Tison. 971-370-5040
Music on the Lawn
5:30 - 8 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Live music by Reverend Shaky, food, drinks, after-hours admission to The Oregon Garden. $10/age 13 and older. $5 garden members, $50 season pass. Ages 12 and under free. Tickets at oregongarden.org.
Writers Workshop
6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Gather and chat with fellow writers. Bring up to three pages of work to read, get feedback on. Teens & adults. Free. 971-370-5040
Painting with Ann Altman
6:30 - 8 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Introduction to folk-art technique of reverse painting on glass. Some photos provided or bring your own 6x9-inch photo. Simple shapes work best. All material provided. Register at 503-8739796
Friday, July 26
Abbey Plant Walk Tour
9 a.m., Mt. Angel Abbey, 1 Abbey Dr., St. Benedict. Explore the diverse ecosystem of Mt. Angel’s Hilltop with Brother Cyril as a guide. Free. Call 971-370-5040 for more information.
Saturday, July 27
Chesterton Golf Scramble
7 a.m., Evergreen Golf Course, 11694 NE W Church Road, Mt. Angel. Inaugural Headmaster’s Classic. 9-hole, 4-man scramble. $75 per person. $300 per team. To register, visit chestertonwv.com
Monday, July 29
Vigil for Peace
2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Towne Square Park, Silverton. Silverton People for Peace gather to advocate for peace, social justice issues on all levels of society including a focus on issues of current concern. Open to all. 503-873-5307
Fig Trees & Thorn Bushes
Iwas only 12 years old when I discovered an old apple tree growing way out in the middle of a woods nearby my parent’s farm in Ohio. According to Ed, the old farmer who owned the woods, that tree had been planted by none other than Johnny Appleseed way back in the late 1830s. That made it over 130 years old in 1964!
No one had been taking care of it. It’s branches were drooping down to the ground. It’s apples were small, sparse, and wormy. But they were sweet!
It’s amazing to think that without anyone pruning, fertilizing, or spraying it, that old apple tree just kept on producing sweet apples over all those years. No amount of neglect could change the kind of fruit it bore. It was a good tree.
Good Trees vs Bad Trees
Jesus used this idea to make a point in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament of the Bible. There, in chapter 6 and verses 43–45, He explained that, “a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush.” Then He observed, “A good man, out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Character is an issue of the heart. Now, Jesus was not comparing a good fig tree to a bad fig tree. He was comparing a fig tree to a thorn bush. Those are two different kinds of trees. They bear entirely different kinds of fruit because they have two entirely different natures. So, if we think Jesus was talking about a healthy tree versus a sickly tree, we miss His point entirely. It’s not just a disease; it’s a nature.
So, what was His point? Jesus was telling us that we, human beings, just like the fig tree and thorn bush, have a certain kind of heart, and our heart is what determines what kind of fruit we bear, whether good or evil. Even the healthiest thorn bush cannot bear figs, or sweet apples.
In light of that, we must understand that no amount of nurture, such as parental love, child training, education, or even church ministry, can ever change the kind of heart
Gregg
Harris, “Just a sinner saved by God’s grace!”
that a person has. For one’s heart to change we would need a miracle, like turning a thorn bust into a fig tree, or a crab apple tree into a sweet apple tree. We would have to be changed into a new kind of person.
No Problem!
By Gregg Harris
complete that Jesus Himself calls it being “born again.” When Jesus says, “You must be born again” in John 3:7, He’s referring to this change of heart that actually saves us, for all eternity, from our bondage to sin.
So, how Does It
Work?
It works in the following way. First, Jesus agreed to leave His place in heaven and come down to earth to be born and to live with us as a man. (That is why we celebrate Christmas.) He then lived the perfectly obedient life that we were all supposed to live, but haven’t. Though we have all failed, Jesus didn’t fail. Though we deserve God’s judgement because of our sin, Jesus didn’t. He had no debt of His own to pay. That is why Jesus could pay for our debt by dying in our place. No one else could do this for us. That is why trusting in Jesus is the only way to be saved. Don’t miss out on His free gift.
“Jesus was not comparing a good fig tree to a bad fig tree. He was comparing a fig tree to a thorn bush. Those are two different kinds of trees. They bear entirely different kinds of fruit because they have two entirely different natures.”
Jesus does not see our need for a miracle to be a problem. After all, He is God in human form. He was sent into this world by His Father to rescue people like us from this very dilemma. John 3:16-17 sums it up clearly. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
Jesus came to save us, not condemn us. He does so by taking away our evil heart and replacing it with a good heart that wants to do what is right. Everyone needs this miracle because everyone starts out with an evil heart. We have all rebelled against God. So, how does He do it?
The answer is found in what Jesus calls “the good news.” It is the news that we can be forgiven and our hearts can be replaced by God. All we need to do is “believe in Jesus,” trusting in Him alone to perform the miracle we need. This change of our heart is so
Jesus volunteered to be put to death on a Roman cross in order to pay the debt that we all owe to God because of our rebellion. He died for us in order to save us. However, after lying dead in the grave for three days, God raised Jesus from the dead. (This is why we celebrate Easter.) God did this in order to prove once and for all that Jesus was who He claimed to be—God the Son in human form— and that His death was acceptable to God the Father as full payment for all our sins. Jesus paid it all!
Now,because of what Jesus has done for us, God the Father can forgive us for all our sins, without being unjust. Our debt has been paid in full. We will then be adopted into God's eternal family and granted all the benefits of God's kingdom. So, whenever anyone believes this good news concerning Jesus, (and by “believe” I mean believing enough to repent and gladly obey Jesus as one’s King), the new birth has already happened. When we believe this in our heart, our old evil heart has already been replaced with a new good heart that honestly wants to please God. That is what it really means to be a born-again Christian
We’re changed inside. We have a new nature that wants to do what pleases God. “You Must Be Born Again!”
Though a good education can increase the amount of fruit a person produces, just as fertilizing a tree can increase its yield, it cannot change the kind of fruit that a person produces. Only God can do that and He does so by causing those who will trust in Jesus to be born again. It’s that simple. What kind of good fruit will you bear as a born-again believer in Jesus? It’s called the fruit of the Spirit and it is found in Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”
Why not turn to God right now and ask Him to forgive you and cause you to be born again. Then, as a good tree, you will begin to bear the good fruit that pleases God. And you will continue to bear good fruit for all eternity, no matter what, just like that old sweet apple tree out in the woods. To learn more call or text me at 971-370-0967.
The Palace Theater Tuesday, July 9th Showing
Rated PG, 7PM First Come, First Served. Bring Friends!
Sponsored by NobleMenOfOregon.org
Attention Noble Men! Our Weekly Men’s Breakfast is changing Time & Location to The Home Place. 1080 N First St, Silverton, OR 97381 Thurs. mornings from 7 to 8:30 AM For info go to NobleMenOfOregon.org Join The Noble Men of Oregon as we impact our community for Christ.
Charges filed after transit mall disturbance
A Silverton-area man is facing felony charges after an alleged armed disturbance at a transit mall in Salem.
Enrique King Hatfield, 21, was arrested May 8 for an incident that day at the Downtown Salem Transit Mall on High Street.
A news release from the Salem Police Department said Hatfield allegedly began shouting threats and displaying a handgun after he was unable to board a bus. He allegedly pointed the gun at one woman, then allegedly struck another woman in the face with the grip of the pistol and kicked her repeatedly after she fell to the ground.
Hatfield was charged in Marion County Circuit Court with second-degree assault, fourth-degree assault and two counts of unlawful use of a weapon. If convicted he faces at least 70 months in prison. As of press time he remained in the Marion County Jail on $100,000 bail.
Two years for hardware store thefts in 3 counties
A Silverton man has been sentenced to a little more than two years in prison after pleading guilty to stealing more than $35,000 in merchandise from hardware stores throughout the region.
Elton Bud Ralston, 40, pleaded guilty June 6 in Washington County Circuit Court to first-degree aggravated theft (three counts) and was sentenced to 26 months in prison.
He was also sentenced to two years of probation during which he may not live within three miles of a Home Depot or Lowe’s Home Improvement, or have any contact with these businesses.
Ralston was accused of stealing highdollar equipment from the victims by replacing the UPC barcodes with stickers for lower-cost items and using self-checkout to pay far less than the items were worth. The thefts occurred between January and May of 2023 in Salem, McMinnville, Albany and Hillsboro, with losses totaling $11,240 to Lowe’s and $24,264 to Home Depot, according to court records.
The June 6 plea deal resolved cases
in Marion, Yamhill and Washington counties. A fourth case in Linn County remains pending and Ralston is scheduled to enter a plea July 12 to charges of first-degree theft, computer crime and suspended driving.
Six years for sexual assault
A Mount Angel man has been sentenced to more than six years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a woman last year.
Jovany Sandoval, 30, pleaded guilty May 29 in Marion County Circuit Court to first-degree sexual abuse and was sentenced to 75 months in prison. He must also register as a sex offender and when released will be on probation 45 months.
Sandoval was charged May 22, 2023, after forcing sexual contact on a woman April 2, 2023, while the victim was incapacitated.
Drug treatment mandated for DV assault, police chase
An Aumsville man accused of a domestic assault near Silverton that led to a police chase has been sentenced to three years of probation after entering a plea agreement.
Matthew James Rodgers, 33, pleaded guilty June 5 in Marion County Circuit Court to strangulation, unlawful use of a weapon and attempting to elude a police officer. On June 18 he was sentenced to 36 months of probation and a 90-day driver’s license suspension.
While on probation Rodgers must complete inpatient substance abuse treatment, as well as complete 80 hours of community service.
Rodgers was arrested May 6 for an incident the previous evening on Hwy. 214 near Silver Falls State Park. According to charging documents, he strangled a woman, threatened her with a hatchet and damaged her car windshield.
Police located Rodgers in Salem and the defendant fled north on I-5 at speeds exceeding 115 mph, according to a media release from Oregon State Police. His vehicle left the road near Wilsonville and became stuck in a field, and he was taken into custody after a brief standoff with police.
$799,000 New Construction-tour home this summer. 1 level home w/ luxurious master suite. 3 garage w/ RV storage/multipurpose room. Robin Kuhn 503-930-1896 MLS#818396
$699,000 New Construction by Leikem Construction. Beautiful custom finishes, bonus room and covered patio. 2263sqft, cul-d-sac location. Angela Leikmen 503-991-0296 MLS#817666
$589,900 Motivated Seller!! New Roof! This home will surprise you. Remodeled with a view. 4 bed/2ba 2508 sqft Robin Kuhn 503-930-1896 MLS#806675
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$850,000 Abiqua Creek Frontage w/amazing views & swimming hole located on 1.04 acre! Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#813185
$559,900 Custom 1 level with 12x14 shop w/power~3bd/ 2ba~ 1818SF~ Covered patio, gazebo, garden area w/fruit trees. Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#815924
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Something to Think About
The art of storytelling Putting a face to houselessness
By Melissa Wagoner
With a Supreme Court ruling about whether or not to overturn Martin v. Boise – a 2018 lawsuit, which found that a person can’t be punished for being unhoused if there are not adequate shelter beds available – expected any day, Sheltering Silverton’s “Storytelling Event,” held at the Silver Falls Library on June 1, felt especially timely.
“Today is not about us, today is about the people who have lived homeless in our community,” Sarah White, Founder and Director of Sheltering Silverton, said in an introductory statement at the event. “For years we have been trying to figure out how to tell the story about homelessness without making it about us.”
The solution the organization eventually created was a series of writing workshops led by retired Silver Falls School District teacher Nancy Miller. She helped five previously unhoused individuals craft their stories, first on paper, then as a presentation.
“What I thought I understood was a light layer,” Miller said, reflecting on what she discovered about homelessness during the workshops. “These stories are so much more. These complicated and conflicting truths broke my brain.”
A believer in the power of storytelling, Miller said in her own speech to event attendees, “May you break a little to hold the light and the spirit… of the storytellers today.”
Then Danny took to the stage to tell his story.
Born in Washington in 1975, Danny and his siblings, a younger brother to two older sisters, were raised mostly by their mother.
“My dad was around until age eight,” Danny recalled. “But he was always drinking…”
And he was often on the road, frequently dropping in and out of Danny’s life for reasons the boy could only guess at, until the day his father arrived home with another boy that he referred to as his “other son.”
“In those days breakdancing was cool, and he became very popular,” Danny said of the mysterious half-brother who began living in their house. “But he was tough on me. He beat me up.”
He also molested Danny, who became more isolated and afraid as the weeks passed.
“I’ve never mentioned it until now,” Danny said. “It still hurts to think about it.”
But, while Danny told no one about the abuse, he did make his feelings about his brother known, at least to his father who responded, “If you don’t want him here, you don’t want me here” and left, taking Danny’s half-brother with him.
“Little did I know that would be the last time I would see my dad…” Danny said. “He never reached out to my mother and left us for reasons unknown… At the age of 48 it still brings tears to my eyes.”
Tough times followed with Danny’s mother struggling to find and maintain housing while parenting three children – one of whom did not like school.
“I was never into school because I never felt smart enough,” Danny explained. “So, I started skipping school… and eventually I got introduced to alcohol.”
He also began stealing, ending up in a juvenile detention center at 13.
“I had no clue what was going on…” Danny remembered. “I felt like no one [cared].”
Disillusioned, Danny was an easy target for a local gang, which he joined in 1988.
“[They] made me feel like we were family,’ Danny said. Adding, “I had no role model.”
Inducted into a life of drugs and larceny, Danny became someone he no longer recognized.
“I thought that was a way out, but it was a mask for my pain…” Danny explained. “I never thought I’d be in this situation… the drugs got worse. Debt got worse. I didn’t care if I lived or died. No one would miss me. I was just burned out, drug addicted and washed up.” He was also unhoused.
Then he met Jess – his partner for the past 15 years – and his situation slowly began to change.
“When I’m with Jess I feel complete,” Danny said. “She is my backbone.”
It was Jess – born and raised in Silverton – who first suggested they contact Sheltering Silverton for help.
“My first reaction was, ‘No, I’m not doing that. I’m not doing a shelter,’” Danny recalled.
But Jess eventually wore him down and now – a graduate of an alcohol and drug detox program and a trained wildland firefighter – Danny is looking forward to the next chapter in his life as he begins the necessary training to become a certified electrician.
“If it weren’t for the staff [of Sheltering Silverton], especially Sarah, I wouldn’t be who I’ve become,” he said.
“In the words of Sarah, I don’t belong on the streets.”
This is the first in a series that will explore houselessness from the point of view of those who have experienced it.
Danny, who previously lived unhoused in Silverton, and Sarah White, the founder and director of Sheltering Silverton.
MELISSA WAGONER
Adapting Sustainable Silverton shares ways to cope with climate change
By James Day
Approximately 30 people participated recently in a halfday session on climate change and adaptation at The Oregon Garden.
The event, called “Tools for Adaptation,” was organized by Sustainable Silverton and used the education center and the fire safety house at the Garden.
The conference was divided into three sections, air and water, earth, and fire, with regional experts offering tips for adapting to the challenges that climate change poses and suggesting solutions for the problems faced by a warming planet.
Glenn Ahrens, a forester with Oregon State University Extension, took charge of the fire portion. He started with the bad news, noting that fires are more prevalent these days, fire season starts earlier and more fires are caused by humans. He countered that with comments on how important fire remains to general forest health.
The group walked down the hill to the fire safety house for Ahrens to demonstrate some concepts that can help property owners cope with fire. Don’t use wood shingles, clean out your gutters, don’t leave any openings in your eaves and use non-combustible materials in siding, he recommended.
Timothy L Yount Financial Advisor
313 N. Water St. Silverton, OR 97381 503-873-2454
Daniel Hailey Financial Advisor
108 N. First St., Suite 101 Silverton, OR 97381 503-874-6162
Around the house, you should have at least five feet of defensible space with no vegetation, Ahrens said. Also, he advised participants to watch for ways in which embers could reach the roof by moving from tree to tree. Ahrens advised against junipers, noting they contain too much oil. He concluded with “it starts with all of us, what is going on with the neighborhood.”
In other sessions:
• Silverton City Manager Cory Misley discussed the municipal water system, noting its five components of
supply, treatment, storage, distribution and consumption. He said Silverton is in good shape because it has two sources of water, Abiqua Creek and Silver Creek and it is building capacity into the system.
“Redundancy is important,” he said. “You need to have more than one source and in all your critical paths you need backup.”
• Kassi Roosth of the Marion SWCD spoke about the “little habitats” project, which allows residents to go native in small chunks, putting together a sustainable garden on a plot as small as a side yard or as large as a public park. Having the right mix of native plants to support wildlife is a key factor. Go to https:// www.marionswcd.net/little-habitat-project/ for more information and how to get your project certified.
• Chelsea Blank of the Marion Soil and Water Conservation District discussed the challenges to plant health and species survival from climate change. Roosth noted the current challenge of pests such as the emerald ash borer and invasives such as Scotch broom.
“You need to plant the right plant in the right place,” Roosth said, adding that paying attention to moisture issues can be critical in drought times.
Glenn Ahrens, a forester with Oregon State University Extension, discusses fireproof roofing materials during a presentation by Sustainable Silverton at The Oregon Garden. JAMES DAY
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Dorothy Janet Munson Frederick Aug. 21, 1932 – June 12, 2024
Dorothy Janet Frederick of Silverton passed away on June 12, 2024 in her home on Mill Street. She was 91, a graduate of Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University), former Teamster, radical lefty, and multimedia artist. She was the matriarch of a unique family.
Jan was born in Laramie, Wyoming at the height of the Depression in 1932, to Wendell and Genevieve Mueller Munson. She and her older brother, Bill, grew up in and came of age during those turbulent years known as the “Greatest Generation,” with economic hardship followed by global war, and the nuclear age in their first decades of life. The Munson Family moved around quite a bit, as Wendell’s job took him all over the country. By the early 1950s, they ended up in Salem, Oregon.
While attending Willamette University, Janet and a friend took the train south to San Francisco. It was there she met the love of her life, future partner and then U.S. sailor, aviation radioman Karl Frederick. Something clicked, and the two joined together to start their own branch of the family tree, with half the team involved in the skirmish known as the Korean War. A little over a year later, two discharges occurred: one from the Naval Service, and the other from Jan, being the birth of the first of four kids. The other three pretty much followed at two year intervals, and the family grew up in the “Suburb Sixties.”
It seemed that every weekend found them out camping in any one of remote Pacific Northwest campgrounds. Favorite locations often focused on Karl’s love of mountain climbing. Mt. Hood, the Three
Sisters Wilderness, and of course, Mt. St. Helens were regulars.
In the late 1960s Jan and Karl discovered the outdoors pastime known as “caving.” This introduced the family to incredible natural voids called lava tubes. She would outfit the family with hard hats and flash lights to enter the underground of the PNW’s volcanic crust. Whenever that family was on a multistate road trip, Jan would locate the commercial caves, of the limestone variety, as stops along the way.
The family was surrounded by culture. Jan and Karl’s extensive record collection included everything from the classics to contemporary folk music. Jan was particularly fond of the comical works of Stan Freberg. His musical parodies and deadpan humor were played often. Books too were present, in the form of a growing library that filled the hand-made bookcases. Her own creations included custom “Hawaiian” shirts, a whimsical stuffed possum, and various stain glass projects. She shared her daily Wordle scores to her friends. And, of course, years of jigsaw and crossword puzzles were in play right up to the end.
She is survived by her sons, Richard Douglas “Gus” Frederick, Rodger Alan “Rod” Frederick, and David Bruce Frederick; her grandchildren, (youngest to oldest) Dallas Griffin Frederick, Jynx Karen Frederick, Danielle Jill Pokorny, Genevieve Marie Frederick, and Wendy Slusser Cunningham. Her daughter, Karen Jill Frederick Pokorny, preceded her in death. At her request, no formal memorial service will be held, but a Celebration of Life will be planned for the near future.
Clarence ‘Pete’ Herr Oct. 22, 1925 – April 12, 2024
Clarence “Pete” Herr passed away on April 12, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife of 77 years, June Herr, who died Jan. 30, 2022.
He is survived by his five children, Pam Berger (Don), Bruce Herr (Donna), Annette Garges, Cindy Toman, and Melissa Galbraith. Pete left a legacy of 12 grandchildren and many great and great, great
grandchildren.
Graveside services were held at Pratum Cemetery on April 20, followed by a gathering at Emmanuel Bible Church on Sunnyview Road. Donations can be made to to Emmanuel Bible Church, 8512 Sunnyview Road NE Salem, OR 97305. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Rick Schiedler Former Mount Angel mayor dies at 67
By Stephen Floyd
Former Mount Angel Mayor Rick Schiedler, who led the city in the years after the Great Recession, died June 5 at the age of 67.
Schiedler served as mayor from 2009 to 2013, in addition to years on the City Council, Budget Committee and Planning Commission since the 1980s. His tenure as mayor was marked by the 2008 market collapse, the introduction of digital record access, and improvements to streets and parks.
Mount Angel City Manager/Police Chief Mark Daiel told Our Town the community has “lost a very involved and well loved member.”
“[Schiedler] will be missed by the entire community, and we are in debt to he and his family for his faithful service to Mount Angel,” said Daniel.
Schiedler’s foray in civic leadership began in 1988 with a two-year term on the city’s Budget Committee, and then on the Planning Commission from 1993 to
2000. He won a seat on the City Council in 2006 from a pool of seven candidates seeking three spots, then ran unopposed for mayor in 2008 and 2010 before declining to seek re-election in 2012.
As mayor, Schiedler sought to revitalize downtown businesses amid the Great Recession and was credited by the Mount Angel Chamber of Commerce with fostering growth during a global downturn.
and facilitated Pepsi-led improvements at John B. Humpert Park.
He was named an Outstanding Volunteer by Portland General Electric, for whom Schiedler worked for 38 years before retiring in 2021. He was recognized for his role in fostering growth and improving city services, as well as his work with groups such as Mount Angel Oktoberfest and Knights of Columbus.
Rick Schiedler was born Aug. 18, 1956 in Silverton, Oregon, to Regina (Traeger) and Edward Schiedler. He graduated from Kennedy High School in 1975, then attended Central Oregon Community College where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Forestry.
He also spearheaded efforts to publish public documents on the city’s then-new website, including meeting agendas and minutes, ordinances and development codes. He said the goal was to increase transparency and reduce time spent by staff fulfilling public record requests.
Schiedler prioritized improvements to streets and parks including restoration of the Park Board and creation of a street committee. During his two terms the city undertook improvements to Saalfeld Family Park and Ebner Park,
Schiedler was also named the 2012 recipient of the Margaret Hoffer Community Service Award by the Chamber. Then-City Administrator Susan Muir said at the time Schiedler was “a hands-on mayor” with a strong work ethic and a focus on community.
After leaving public office Schiedler remained active in civics including in 2014 when he took part in a successful election campaign to update the City Charter. He was also a Republican Precinct Person for Marion County in 2018 and 2022.
Rick is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cindy Schiedler; mother, Regina; daughters, Sara (Peter) Beyer, Jessica Saltalamachia, Allison (Anthony) Mayer; grandchildren, Emma, Abigail and Logan Beyer, Lily and Dylan Saltalamachia, Grace, Anna, and Joseph Mayer; siblings, Barb Horner, Beth (Joe) Pelletier, Mike (Paula), Tom (Lori), Jack, Duane (Julie), David; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on June 12 at St. Mary Catholic Church with burial at Calvary Cemetery. Donations can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church in Mount Angel, or Mt. Angel Knights of Columbus Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Rick Schiedler. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Wilbur K. Vanderbeck
With his family by his side, Wilbur Vanderbeck passed away in his home in Marquam, Oregon on June 11. He was 94 years old.
Wilbur’s story began on May 12, 1930 in a farmhouse in St. Louis, Oregon. Born to Alphonse and Antoinette Vanderbeck. He was the only child from that union. He had four half siblings from Alphonse’s first marriage to Theresa Ferschweiler... Cyril, Alphonse “Bob,” Ethel and Theresa. He had one more half sibling from Antoinette’s first marriage to Clarence Gardner... Leroy “Whitey” Gardner. He lived in the house in St. Louis until 1935. His dad Alphonse had a heart attack in the barn when Wilbur was five years old.
Antoinette’s sister and brother-in-law (Ellen and Orville Hook) owned the now Vanderbeck property in Marquam. In 1935 after the death of her husband, Antoinette purchased the property from her sister and brother-in-law and Wilbur moved to the farm with his mother and brothers where he has lived ever since.
Antoinette and Wilbur’s brothers, Bob and Whitey, ran a dairy on the Vanderbeck Jersey Farm. Owned and operated by Mrs. A. Vanderbeck and Sons, they produced Grade A Jersey milk and bred registered Jersey cattle. When Wilbur was old enough, he would deliver the milk to the creamery in Mount Angel. Wilbur attended St. Mary’s Grade School in Mount Angel and attended Mt. Angel Prep School for grade 9 and part of grade 10. Halfway through grade 10 he decided it was more beneficial for his family to work on the farm, so he quit school and never went back.
One of his first jobs was for George “Junior” White helping out with the farming. Junior became a father figure to Wilbur and he and Junior had a very special bond until Junior passed away in the 1990s. He continued to run the dairy with his mom and brothers.
In 1953 a local Marquam girl, Darline Toepfer, was a senior at Mt. Angel Academy. Darline sent a letter to Wilbur asking him to take her to her senior prom. Two weeks later he called her with his answer... NO –because he couldn’t dance. Needless to say she missed her senior prom. Three weeks later Wilbur called to ask Darline on a triple date with friends to Eugene. They went together for 14 months before marrying on Oct. 9, 1954 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel.
May 12, 1930 – June 11, 2024
They settled on the farm in Marquam where they reared three children. Cindy was born in 1957, Carey born in 1959 and Wendy born in 1967. Their first baby, Vivian, was born Aug. 15, 1956 but sadly passed away at six days old.
In addition to the dairy, Wilbur started growing berries with Darline’s father, Jake Toepfer. Their wild and rare Santiam Wild Mountain Blackberries were sold to Harry & David in Medford, Oregon. Wilbur also worked for Avison Lumber Co. during those early years. Wanting to strike out on his own he started a logging/cat work business with Frank Mack. Wilbur bought out Frank in 1962 and Vanderbeck Logging Co. was born. He incorporated in 1972. He did skidder logging for a while and then graduated to high lead or tower logging up the Collawash River. During those years he also started doing excavation work for dairies.
In 1984, Wilbur shut down all of the logging and focused only on the excavation and log trucking. Most of the dairy ponds in our area were built by Wilbur and his son-in-law, Michael. Logging and log trucking was in Wilbur’s blood. He was a logger through and through to the end. He even went out of this world in his favorite Red Wing work boots!
Wilbur “retired” in 2012 passing on the torch of the company to his son-in-law, Michael Burton. The company name was changed to Vanderbeck Trucking & Excavating, Inc. and Wilbur has continued to mentor the younger generation with his knowledge of pond building and land clearing.
Wilbur loved his antique cars, a 1931 Model A and 1924 Model T. He showed them off at parades every chance he got and recently won first place at the 2023 Fourth of July parade in Mount Angel with the Model A. Both cars have been used by him to chauffeur many a bride to make her grand entrance for her wedding ceremony... 62 to be exact! He loved the beautiful brides and chatting with them while they waited for the “it’s time” signal. His favorite thing to ask the brides when he would get to the end of the driveway was “do you want to go left or do you want to go right?” Meaning, “do you want to go to your ceremony or do you want to hit the highway?” Wilbur chauffeured brides from 2009-2023. He thoroughly enjoyed and took his “job” very seriously.
Wilbur was preceded in death by his wife, Darline, and his daughter, Vivian. He is survived by his children, Cindy, Carey, Rose, Michael and Wendy; five grandchildren, lan, Chad, Audra, Wil and Madi; and two great grandchildren, Barrett and Charlotte.
A rosary and funeral mass was held June 27 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel. Interment was at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel, Silverton. The family held a Celebration of Life on July 7 at Vanderbeck Valley Farm.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Wilbur’s live in caregiver, niece Mary Toepfer Gwinup; caregiver, Marie Angstrom; and everyone at Beloved Hospice who helped Wilbur through his last days. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Wilbur’s favorite thing to say when someone would ask him if they could get him anything was... “I’ll take a million dollars!”
He’s still waiting!
Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Christine Ferschweiler Feb.
Christine Ferschweiler was born Feb. 1, 1947 to Robert and Marjorie Staley and passed away June 4, 2024.
She graduated from South Eugene High School then Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University) with a degree in education. She taught for many years, first in the Salem School District, and then the Gervais School District until she retired.
1, 1947 – June 4, 2024
She married Donald Ferschweiler on March 16, 1968. They lived in Gervais until they moved onto the family farm in 1977 where she lived the rest of her life. They were married for 56 years.
Chris enjoyed traveling. She vacationed to Europe, Hawaii, Mexico and many of the States. If she wasn’t reading books, playing cards, or solving puzzles she was helping on the farm. She helped the family raise filberts, walnuts, cherries and hay on the century farm just outside of Gervais.
Her true passion was teaching where she
Carolyn Frances Wendell
Carolyn Frances (Brenza) Wendell passed awway surrounded by loved ones on June 11, 2024. Carolyn was 76 years old and had lived a life full of love and laughter.
Carolyn was born on Nov. 6, 1947 in southern California, daughter of Frank and Carol Brenza. In high school she enjoyed playing the clarinet in the marching band and was even asked to be the secretary of the Venice High Jazz Band, “The Crescendos.” She graduated from Venice High School in 1968, and that was the year she met and married David Boyd Wendell.
primarily taught first grade. She loved her students and loved being a teacher. Her close friendships with fellow teachers lasted a lifetime.
She was a member of the Sacred Heart Parish. She volunteered at the church, church dinners, the Oktoberfest, the school district and was an officer of the Friends of the Gervais FFA to name some of her many volunterism activities.
She is survived by her husband, Don; her twin brother, Dr. Charles Staley; her sister, Darlene Pohl; her son, Cameron (Amy) Ferschweiler; her daughter, Darcey (Dave) Hetzel; and five granddaughters, Rachel, Jessica, Dresen, Lauren and Jennifer.
Services were held at St Louis Catholic Church on June 11 with the Rosary.
In lieu of flowers or other gifts, donations can be made to the Friends of Gervais FFA, P.O. Box 9195, Brooks OR 97305.
Nov. 6, 1947 – June 11, 2024
Patricia ‘Diann’ Batson
Patricia “Diann” Batson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunt and friend, of Mount Angel, Oregon passed away peacefully at home on May 29, 2024, after a five-month battle with cancer.
Diann was born on Jan. 19, 1950 in Cassville, Missouri to David and Wanda Williamson. The family moved to Oregon a few months later.
Diann graduated high school in Oakland, Oregon in 1968 and married Linn Crader in 1970. Together they had two children, Carrie and Cameron.
She married Carl Batson in 1995 and lived in Silverton for 10 years. They then moved to Mount Angel where they spent the rest of their almost 30 wonderful years together.
Nothing was more important to Diann than her faith and family. She lived her faith and loved her family with a quiet ferocity. Diann’s life was filled with joy, love, sacrifice and hardship. She dedicated her life to always being there for others while being a great witness to her faith. She loved to read and enjoyed working in the yard. Her early years were spent
Jan. 19, 1950 – May 29, 2024
reading legal thrillers and crime novels and later working on her genealogy and learning true American history. All the while studying her bible and reading all she could about biblical theology.
Diann took care of her family and was always there for anyone who needed her help. Whether it was just to talk, paint a house or nurse someone back to health, she was always there. Her compassion and selflessness was always guided by her faith. Diann was always busy. If she wasn’t taking care of her family, she was in the yard with her flowers and plants or doing something in the house making a home for her husband. As a wife she excelled in every aspect.
She was preceded in death by her father and her son, Cameron. She is survived by her husband, Carl; her mother, Wanda; her brothers, Mike and David; her daughters, Carrie and Jennifer; son, Sean; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon.
Carolyn and David began their long spiritual journey together that brought them and their children to Oregon in 1977 and into the Catholic Church in 1984.
Her husband and children were privileged to care for her in her final days. She had suffered for a year from cancer, and her last years were fraught with much physical suffering. Through it all, Carolyn appreciated the love and care of family and friends, expressing gratitude for her life of faith.
Carolyn and David were married for 57 years. She loved being the mother of her five children: Caren, wife of Joseph LeMark; Sarah, wife of Fr. Calin Tamiian; David, husband of Lili; Faith, wife of Manuel Dauvin; and Louise, wife of Darin Mohr. She loved each of her 28 grandchildren: Joseph (fiancee Bronwyn Leitch), Samuel, Maximillian, Thomas, Issac, Gemma, Clare, and Peter LeMark; Sanziana, Magdalena, Alexandru, and Zamfira Tamiian; Evangelyn, David, Joan, and Louis Wendell; Miriam, Avila (fiance Sebastian Morzen), Josiah, Ephrem, Zachery, Esther, Abel, and Beata Dauvin; and Rowena, Gabriel, Jeremiah, and Felicity Mohr.
She is preceded in death by beloved granddaughter, Miriam Dauvin, and twin daughters who died in utero, whom she longed to know.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be sent to Hope Pregnancy Clinic and Oregon Right to Life. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Football schedules
When I ran into Foxes football coach Dan Lever at the on-campus celebration for Silverton’s Class 5A girls basketball championship he told me that he was putting together “the mother of all schedules.” Well, maybe those weren’t his exact words, but the concept works.
Lever and his athletic director, Andy Jones, had more wiggle room to work with this season. Because the OSAA has ripped apart the Mid-Willamette Conference for football, the Foxes all of a sudden have openings for four nonleague contests. Two years ago Silverton played eight league games and one non-league game in California. Last year in a 10-team MWC the Foxes played nine league games and then went into the playoffs without lining up against anyone else in 5A, or 6A for that matter.
The new Class 5A Special District 2 for football includes the Foxes, old MWC foes Central, McKay and Woodburn plus Canby and Wilsonville, who were
taken out of the old Special District 1/ Northwest League when Aloha and Glencoe chose to play down from 6A. And the OSAA wanted to limit ten-team leagues. At least I think that’s the way it works. No matter.
The result is that Lever and Jones could tinker around to their heart’s content. And the end result of the tinkering is a doozy of a schedule.
The Foxes open at home Aug. 30 against Summit of Bend, a semifinalist a year ago and 5A champions in 2015 and 2022. Then, the Foxes go to Beaverton on Sept. 6 to face Class 6A power Mountainside, a program that was started in 2017 by John Mannion, who led the Foxes to one final and two more final fours in his seven years coaching in Silverton. Then, on Sept. 13 Silverton hosts Lake Oswego. Yes, THAT Lake Oswego, the one coached by Oregon legend Steve Coury, with seven trips to the large-school finals and two titles (2011 and 2018). Without putting too much pressure on the two teams, this looks like the most highwattage matchup at McGinnis Field since… well, you tell me when there has been a better one.
In week 4 on Sept. 20 the Foxes go to
In my view the loss of West Albany is the biggest negative about the new league structure. The Foxes and Bulldogs have been banging on each other with intense ferocity and pride for the last dozen years or so. Silverton holds a 7-5 edge overall and has a 3-2 lead in the playoffs.
When the OSAA flipped the switch on the new leagues Lever told me that he and Brian Mehl, the longtime West coach, were committed to keeping the rivalry going.
After four delicious weeks of nonleague play the Foxes start play in the new district with an Oct. 4 home game vs. McKay. Then, it’s a Thursday, Oct. 10 game at Central, the Foxes’ lone Thursday night encounter.
On Oct. 18 Wilsonville comes to
McGinnis. This is another one to mark on your calendar. In many ways the Wildcats are the gold standard in Class 5A, with three OSAA Cup allsports titles since 2018 (Wilsonville was runner-up in 2023). The Wildcats are the defending 5A champions and were second in 2016, 2018 and 2022, all under coach Adam Guenther. Wilsonville downed the Foxes 39-26 at Randall Stadium in the 2022 quarterfinals.
Silverton closes the league and regular season with an Oct. 25 game at Canby (Lever’s alma mater) and Nov. 1 at Woodburn.
The Foxes were 9-0 through the MWC season a year ago, winning games by an average of 45-14, never scoring less than 35 and only allowing more than 20 twice. Silverton dispatched Hood River Valley 44-7 in the first round and drilled West Albany 41-14 in the quarters before being dominated 42-19 by Mountain View of Bend in the semis.
My sense is that Lever, who brings back a solid corps of players on both sides of the ball, would, inwardly at least, not be too unhappy with a 7-2 record or maybe a 6-3 heading into this year’s playoffs. The tough schedule will result in a team that is tested and battle-hardened. Injuries are always a crap shoot, but my sense is that by about Nov. 1 Foxes fans will be looking ahead to another deep playoff run.
West Albany.
Foxes football coach Dan Lever. JAMES DAY
Open! Butte Creek Falls accessible
By James Day
Another piece of the Cascade Foothills recreation puzzle is back on the grid.
The Oregon Department of Forestry has reopened access to Butte Creek Falls after a nearly four-year closure fueled by the 2020 wildfires.
There was little or no damage to the falls themselves or the surrounding acreage in the 2020 fires, which scorched approximately one-third of the Santiam State Forest, which includes Butte Falls.
The area, which is about 20 miles from Scotts Mills, was closed mainly for safety reasons while ODF conducted post-fire timber harvesting and removed roadside hazardous burned and dead trees, said ODF officials.
“This operation was the largest and most challenging of all ODF’s post-fire restoration timber sales as it was within one of the highest severity portions of the fires’ footprint,” said Kyle Kaupp, forester in the Santiam Unit, in a press release. “It included more than 20 miles of roadside hazard tree mitigation across multiple road systems, all which were accessible by the same travel route to this recreation area.”
Joe Offer, ODF’s recreation program manager explained that “we were really fortunate the fires skipped over this area. The trailhead and the paths to the two sets of falls are open [and] so is the camping area.”
ODF recreation staff and inmate crews worked to get the area open after being closed since September 2020.
“There was a lot of vegetation and debris on the trails,” said Offer. “But thanks in large part to the adults-in-custody crews they are cleared and just last week they repaired one of the foot bridges. The crew had to transport the lumber, tools, and a generator down the trails to get the job done.”
The trailhead (see information box for directions) has parking for five or six vehicles. There is also additional parking at the three-site campground with a connector trail to the main trail that goes to the falls.
“Our future plan is to expand both parking areas, the campground and offer additional camping opportunities within this northern block of the Santiam,” said Offer. “But right now we just wanted to
HOW TO GET THERE
From Silverton, take Hwy. 213 north to Scotts Mills Road and turn east. Drive through the town until you cross the bridge, then turn right onto S. Maple Grove Road.
Follow for 4.2 miles, then keep right to continue on S. Maple Grove Road for 3 miles.
Turn right onto S. Sawtell Road and continue for 5.1 miles and take a slight left at the end of the pavement onto S. Family Camp Road for 3.1 miles.
Stay right at the first intersection onto Butte Creek 500 for 1.2 miles, then right onto Crooked Finger 400 for 2.5 miles. The Butte Creek campground is on the right. To access the Butte Creek Falls trailhead continue for another 0.5 miles. The trailhead will be on the right.
Source: Oregon Department of Forestry
get everything open then start working on new improvements.”
Kaupp noted that the “ODF has also begun to replant trees for the future of the forested areas. So far, nearly 200,000 seedlings have been planted in this specific area alone.”
The ODF’s work in the area continues, so there are still some restrictions.
“There are salvage harvest operations on-going, so one place that remains closed is the High Lakes Recreation Area,” said Offer. “We are asking folks to not go into that area until all operations are complete and we determine the best way to manage recreation in such a heavily burned landscape.”
Upper Butte Creek Falls. OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY
Everyone needs a cheerleader. I know I do. Nothing gets me more excited than someone saying something nice.
Every once in a while someone will say something nice and I turn into the world’s biggest golden retriever.
“Thank you for saying that,” I’ll say. “You just made my day.”
If I had a tail, it would be wagging 90 mph.
Compliments are the currency of kindness.
I don’t know why many people are so stingy with them. After all, compliments are free.
I don’t want to sound like SpongeBob SquarePants, who believes that every day is the best ever – although, when you think about it, every day really is the best.
All I mean is if someone says or does something above and beyond, I give him or her a few good words.
What brings this to mind is the Fourth of July, the birthday of the Good Old U.S. of A. I want to give our one nation, under God, indivisible and with liberty and justice for all, a compliment.
First, as someone who has enjoyed the many opportunities that freedom has provided, I am forever grateful. Try being a journalist in Russia, where they are randomly tossed in jail. Or how about China, where they just disappear? Or a multitude of other nations?
Dissent or criticism is not tolerated.
With this being an election year, the rhetoric and hyperbole are in overdrive.
One Party: We do everything right and
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the other party is horrible.
The Second Party: No, we do everything right and the other party is even more horrible.
The People: Ugh. Please pass the earplugs.
This is nothing new. Not even George Washington was unanimously elected.
Because of the freedoms it offers everyone, our nation, since its founding, has been under siege from within and outside its borders. In 1814, the British army even set fire to the U.S. Capitol and the White House, then called the presidential mansion.
That act was just one of many attacks, domestic and foreign, that our nation has endured. Pearl Harbor and 9/11 are two others that immediately come to mind.
Through them all, we as a nation have emerged stronger and more deeply dedicated to the notion that freedom is worth the price. We have sent our sons
and daughters into harm’s way to secure that freedom and we have no intention of giving it up. Ever.
Time after time, foreign powers have made the mistake of assuming the cacophony of many disparate voices signaled weakness or the lack of resolve.
They have been shown to be wrong every time. When attacked, Americans have laid down their differences and picked up arms to defend the ideals we all hold dearly. And, just for the record, anyone who doubts that is in for a big surprise.
We all need to be a cheerleader for our great nation. We need to tell the rest of the world that, as Americans, we love and appreciate our nation above all others, one that is of the people, by the people and for the people.
Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor and has been a professional journalist for 50 years. He lives in Stayton.
NOTICES
SAVE THE DATE –ST. BONIFACE ALL SCHOOL REUNION
Sunday, Aug. 11. Held this year at Sublimity Pioneer Park, across from Sublimity Fire Hall. Bring you brown chairs. See you then! 503-689-1478
MT. ANGEL SENIOR
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SERVICES
HANDYMAN & HOME REPAIR SERVICE
Installation and repair of fencing, decks, doors, gutter cleaning, moss removal, power washing, yard debris removal. CCB# 206637 Call Ryan 503-881-3802
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WANTED
LOOKING TO PURCHASE
a Commercial Building in downtown Silverton or surrounding towns. Two-story or three. Serious buyer looks for a serious seller,only. Duke,
Robin Ekloff Owner
#T2834 DON’T
MISS OUT
$2,150,000 Rare Opportunity: Stunning River Front Estate! Experience the perfect blend of luxury living and privacy in this exquisite country property offering a lifestyle of comfort and convenience! Includes 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 3701sqft of living space, a great room adorned with elegant finishes, a magnificent stone fireplace, and panoramic views leading to a covered patio, sauna, and salt water pool on 2.8 acres. Call Chuck at ext. 325 (WVMLS#817967)
#T2825 NEW TO THE MARKET
$659,000 Built in ’95 home overlooks the HOA common area w/ pond An open floor plan w/ handicap amenities on main level, no step entry. Lower level has paver patio. Vaulted Great Rm. Large BR suite on main. Recent upgrades include: new carpet, LVP flooring, granite & quartz counter tops, sprinkler system, Hi-eff. HVAC, whole home surge protection, solar panels. Located on the east side of Silverton on a quiet / low traffic street. Short distance to downtown. Call Michael at ext. 314 (WVMLS#816834)
SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
#T2817 GREAT LOCATION 2 BR, 2 BA 990 sqft. Independence. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $472,800 (WVMLS#815114)
#T2819 FIVE SEPARATE UNITS 6 BR, 5 BA 3172 sqft. Salem. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $847,000 (WVMLS#815616)
#T2822 PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP 5 BR, 3 BA 2317 sqft. Mt. Angel Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $549,000 (WVMLS#816013)
NEW! – #T2835 BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOUSE 2 BR, 2.5 BA 1100 sqft. Beaverton. Call Chuck at ext. 325 $409,900 (WVMLS#818024)
BARELAND/LOTS
#T2816 2 BUILDABLE LOTS .45 Acres Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $137,900 (WVMLS#814998)
#T2827 GREAT OPPORTUNITY 1.66 Acres Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $194,000 (WVMLS#817231)
#T2832 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME 2.93 Acres Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $450,000 (WVMLS#817735)
#T2816 2 BUILABLE LOTS
$129,900
2 Buildable Lots at the end of Adams Ave, engineered plans for developing the lots for 2 homes previously done in 2017. Buyer to do their own due diligence, Buyer to be responsible for City of Silverton System Development Costs to hook up to city water and sewer. Water/sewer/power to the edge of the lots. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 (WVMLS#814998)
#T2832 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME
$450,000
(WVMLS#816834)
#T2826 LARGE LOT
3 BR, 3 BA 2242 sqft Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $598,000 (WVMLS#816981)
Build your dream home on acreage property outside of Silverton, yet located close to town! 60 GPM Well and standard septic have both been installed on the property. The approved building permit application deadline is 06/01/25. Buyer to do due diligence regarding building on the property. Call Whitney at ext. 320, or Mike at ext. 323 (WVMLS#817735) BROKERS ARE
#T2828 BEAUTIFUL HOME
3 BR, 2 BA 1546 sqft Call Chuck at ext. 325 $599,900 (WVMLS#816834)
#T2829 SO MUCH POTENTIAL 4 BR, 1 BA 1572 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $468,800 (WVMLS#817252)
#T2830 – NEW SILVERTON LISTING
3 BR, 1 BA 1134 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314 $385,000 (WVMLS#817586)
FOR RENTALS – Call Micha or Sarah at 503-873-1425 or visit SilvertonRealty.com
