Our Town North: Aug. 1, 2023

$998,000

40.83 acres, 3 bedrooms, 1 ba. lodge style home, 24x48 shop with water & power. 20 yr. plus timber, borders BLM. Seller contract. 20739 Hazelnut Ridge Rd. NE, Scotts Mills. MLS#802816

$799,000

Investors, 64.41 acres, 3 adjoining homesites, 2 @ 5 acres, 1 @ 54 acres. Kingston-Lyons Dr., Stayton. MLS#788228

$699,000

Beautiful renovated Craftsman Home, 4 bd, 2 ba. 1900 sq ft. on 1.30 acres. Outstanding Valley Views! Cell tower income included. 14448 Evans Valley Rd. NE, Silverton. MLS#792811

$645,000

3.85 acres. Prestige Estate property, path of progress potential. 835 Grouse St. NE, Silverton. Sellers will consider carrying a contract. MLS#770597

$595,000

120.50 Acres, Recreation or Timber land, Reprod Timber, road system, Ideal for RV/ Campsite. Maple Grove, Molalla. MLS#802319

$550,000

4.65 acres, 2 parcels. Ideal for agriculture development. EFU zoning. Seller will carry a contract. Monitor Road, Silverton. MLS#807519

$335,000

S. Abiqua Rd. Silverton, Beautiful, buildable creek front homesite on 1.310 acres. MLS#806097

$335,000

S. Abiqua Rd. Silverton, Beautiful, buildable creek front homesite on 1.420 acres. MLS#806096

$499,000

Dual living, log home, 3bd. 2 ba. & MFG home with 3bd. 1.5 ba., on 1.06 ac parcel, sm. wood shop/ garden shed. 215 Fourth St., Scotts Mills MLS#804645

$339,000

2 acres buildable homesite, views! Approved for standard septic. Water well installed. 7685 Dovich Ln SE, Turner. MLS#778883

$285,000

3.080 acres, private building site in city limits, maybe dividable. SW exposure. Standard Ave., Brownsville. MLS#777782

$335,000

Under Contract

S. Abiqua RD Silverton, Beautiful, buildable creek front homesite on 1.350 acres. MLS#806095

$127,500

Buildable residential lot, 7650 sq. ft. City water and sewer available. Property has iconic water tower located on it. 617 Keene Ave. Silverton. MLS#802507

Under Contract

Above

20-year odyssey

In 20 years the children grow up. The saplings planted when the house was new become sturdy shade providers. The hair grows a little grayer, a little thinner, maybe both. Who is that person looking back from the mirror? All things change.

Our Town slips into 20 years this month. It was new and hot off the press Aug. 1, 2004. It’s been landing in the mailbox on or about the 1st of the month ever since. There’s an edition on the 15th of the month, too, but that one’s only been around 18 years. In the modern parlance, here I would insert the “wink” emoji. But we’re not doing modern speak right now. We’re doing old school.

And Our Town is old school, unashamedly old school. We enjoy putting stories about the neighborhood in the hands of our neighbors. Making sure you have access to information about the council decision, or the high school ballgame, or the festival coming up. Letting you know about the new business in town, or the folks that operate that treasured old timer – and we have some gems.

Our Town comes to you ink-onnewsprint. No device necessary to access it. If you are willing and able to read, we’re here to serve. In emoji-speak here I’d insert a nod and a “thank a teacher”. Of course, if you’re most comfortable device-in-hand, or gazing into a screen, Our Town is available that way, too. Yes, old school, but there have been some changes over the years. With new times, new definitions of accessible are among them. And new faces. The staff has

grown, bringing new skills and ideas. But the mission has remained the same. We build community. Some of us knit and weave and stitch people and stories together. Some pour in countless grains of sand and mix the mortar. Brick by brick, ad by ad, a foundation comes together. It is a privilege to do something you believe in, with people you care about, for the community you serve. Not everyone is so lucky.

We’re lucky because others share the belief that community is important. Neighbors care about that tree that’s coming down, the beautiful garden on the corner, or those houses going up. Citizens are concerned about decisions that will shape the traffic, local commerce and the future of their children. Businesses regard reaching out to potential customers as an important part of their plan.

We do what we do to the best of our ability, perhaps imperfect, but earnest. And while perfection may be beyond us, better isn’t. We strive to be better every year, every edition. Still.

With your help, whether in the form of feedback, story suggestions or support for our advertisers, we will be better still in the years to come as we adapt to inevitable change. What change would YOU like to see?

We’re all in this together.

Thank you for being part of Our Town

Paula Mabry

A 1917 photograph of Fischer’s Flour and Cereal Mills in Silverton, taken by June Drake. The mill is the subject of a new mural by Tonya Smithburg, to be unveiled during Homer Davenport Community Festival. COURTESY SILVERTON COUNTRY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

By James Day

The new Silverton Civic Center continues to take shape in the former Eugene Field School block. Less than half a mile away lies the Silverton Community Center, a multiuse, multi-tenanted facility owned by the Oregon Military Department with the city holding the lease.

So what happens to the community center when the city moves north and its council meetings are held at the new building?

Silverton Area Community Aid already has announced  plans to move to the North First Street slot formerly occupied by Ratchet Brewery.

Silver Falls Family YMCA, which runs numerous programs at the community center, wants to stay and has offered to pick up the lease from the state. The Silverton Food Co-op, meanwhile, wants to establish its first permanent address by moving into SACA’s old digs in the basement and is happy to work with the city or the Y as the landlord.

Representatives of the Y and the Co-op were on hand to discuss the situation at the July 17 City Council work session. No decision was made, but there was plenty to discuss, including the age and maintenance needs of the building and the fact that the Y is seeking $30,000 from the city to assist with the maintenance issues.

“The council is split on whether that is a good idea or not,” said Mayor Jason Freilinger in an email exchange with Our Town after the work session.

“Some expressed a desire to not give over control of the building to someone else because they want to make sure the Food Co-Op and Jazzercise have a home. Others feel we need to just walk away and let the Oregon Military Department pick a new primary tenant. That could lead to a vacant building or Jazzercise and Food Co-op and maybe even YMCA not having a home. Others expressed that the idea of paying the YMCA to take over when we can just walk away doesn’t make sense either.

“For me, this all goes back to my comment about this being a bigger-picture issue.  Should the city be in the business of assuming large risks on old buildings and subsidizing nonprofits that serve the public good but cannot make it on their own?”

The city’s lease with the state runs through March 31, 2024, according to the staff report for the meeting. The YMCA is proposing a three-year lease with an option to extend as it raises money and seeks a site to build a permanent facility.

The staff report noted 21 bulleted items on the challenges posed by the condition of the building, including its 1921 boiler system. Also mentioned were plumbing, roof, electrical, insulation, windows and leaks.

No word was available on when the council might return to the issue or make a decision.

Complicating matters, the Silver Falls Library owns 49% of the parking lot adjacent to the community center, with the city owning the remaining 51% as well as the parking between the library building and the visitor center. The city also owns the library building.

Freilinger said the city and library officials are engaged in discussions on the property issues but no specifics were available.

Silverton Community Center on South Water Street. JAMES DAY

Bargaining Non-teacher employees at the table

By Stephen Floyd

Bargaining with non-teacher employees in the Silver Falls School District is nearing its third month, well before a 150day official deadline. The previous contract expired July 1.

SFSD began negotiating with the Oregon School Employees Association (OSEA) May 18. As of press time, slightly more than half of outstanding articles were resolved.

Remaining issues include salaries, discipline, work hours and vacation policy. Parties are split on whether or not the district can afford the concessions the union is seeking, and how narrowly the contract should define the role of management.

Union leaders have initiated a public information campaign they hope will speed up negotiations. Fliers were distributed on cars during the July 10 regular meeting of the SFSD board. At the July 19 bargaining session, district negotiators said this approach felt combative and misleading. Union negotiators said it was the start of a planned campaign to hold the district accountable.

In regard to salaries, the district has proposed removing percentage-based cost of living adjustments, instead using a dollar amount of between $1.25 and $0.50 per hour. The union proposed $5 per hour increase for all employees. Parties had yet to change these positions as of press time.

The district argues it cannot afford to pay too much because

it is still recovering from financial losses of the COVID-19 pandemic and must restore its end-of-year balance. The union agreed its proposal was “a big ask” but said the district has been falling behind in pay compared to cost of living over the last 20 years and the proposal helps wages catch up.

Parties are also split over employee discipline.

The union has requested a policy of allowing workers who file a grievance against disciplinary action to continue working until the issue is resolved. If a non-teacher employee misses work while a grievance is filed, and it is resolved in their favor, back-pay does not make up for the wages lost, union officials say. The district said it is the responsibility of administrators to take disciplinary action, and an appeal is about process rather than guilt or innocence.

On the issue of employee hours, the parties are discussing how a worker’s time may be reduced. The district says some circumstances require a reduction, such as when enrollment drops unexpectedly at a school and food services has fewer hours to work with. The union has requested that the employee and union be informed before such changes happen, and that an employee who has their hours reduced retain their prior classification for the calculation of benefits.

The next bargaining session was scheduled for July 28, after Our Town press time. Sessions are open to the public. Videos of the meetings are loaded to the district’s YouTube page.

Cultural passes

Summer adventure just got easier

By Melissa Wagoner

Summer is a great time to visit the many museums, gardens and educational venues located within a two-hour drive of Silverton. But, if expenses ae running high, the price of admission can be a barrier. That’s where the Silver Falls Library’s Cultural Passes can help.

Offering free admission to places like the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville, the Hallie Ford Museum in Salem and The Oregon Garden in Silverton, the library’s goal is “to provide access to fun and educational venues to those who might not be able to afford to go otherwise, or to community members considering a pass…”

“The cultural passes may be reserved up to a month in advance and checked out for three days,” Adult Services Librarian Spring Quick said, describing the program, which has been going strong since 2012.

And with nine destination passes currently available for loan, they are ideal for either a family outing or a date.

“The most popular passes have been the A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village and the Japanese Gardens,” Quick said. And there are other non-literary items available at the library as well.

“We also check out fun things like ukuleles, Playaways, and microscopes,”

Silver Falls Library  Cultural Passes

Three-day passes available for reservation up to one month in advance.

• A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village

• Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum

• Hallie Ford and Deepwood Museums and Gardens

• Oregon Garden

• Oregon Historical Society

• Portland Chinese Garden

• Portland Japanese Garden

• Willamette Heritage Center

• Central Cascades Wilderness (June 15 – Oct. 15)

Quick pointed out.

For those stuck at home this summer, the library offers a Homebound Book Delivery service “to residents of the Silver Falls Library District, of any age, who are confined to their home or institution.”

In other words, there is something for just about everyone at the Silver Falls Library, all you’ve got to do is check them out.

By Melissa Wagoner

Before John Baker moved to Silverton in 2016 life was rough.

“I was in pretty bad shape…” Baker said. “I had severe arthritis, both of my hips needed to be replaced, I’d spent five years in a wheelchair, and I was pushing 400 pounds…I was crippled and unemployed.”

That’s when Baker and his wife, Amanda, decided to make a substantial change, moving from their home state of Oklahoma to Oregon, where Amanda has family. Almost immediately things began to improve.

“The doctors elsewhere said, get used to your life, but the doctors here said, we’ll fix this,” Baker recalled. “And it gave me the hope I needed to lose 175 pounds.” And to make an important new friend along the way – fellow Aquacise attendee Judy Gabriel.

“She’s a dear friend of mine that I met at the pool… when I was trying to lose weight and get the surgery,” Baker said. But it wasn’t just Aquacise that brought the two together, they also share another passion – plants.

“Being confined to a wheelchair, I started messing with house plants to keep my sanity,” Baker recalled. “And then, when I got my surgery and was able to walk again, I found my love for gardening.”

In need of assistance, Gabriel invited Baker to help her in her own home garden, but then she had an even better idea – a long-time member of the Silverton Grange, Gabriel knew the organization’s community garden was in need of some TLC.

“I mentioned it had always been a dream of mine to have a big garden and so when Judy presented this, I saw an opportunity,” Baker said. “I said, I can absolutely clean this up and give back.”

Because, for the past seven years, Baker

has kept one goal in mind – to repay SACA for the help the organization provided when he needed it most.

“When I moved here, I was crippled and unemployed and I had to rely on SACA,” Baker recalled. “For a year I needed their help. So, it’s very much been on my heart to give back to them.”

Now, with a large community garden at his disposal, Baker is doing just that, one vegetable at a time.

“The tomatoes, corn, beets and squash are doing the best,” he said. “But we’ve got raspberries, blueberries, seven kinds of melons and 21 varieties of tomatoes, too.”

In fact, Baker has so many plants, and they are all growing so well, that it’s hard to believe he’s only been gardening for four years.

“I’ve done a lot of research,” Baker said, pointing out bean plants, whose low yield he attributes to high nitrogen levels and a lack of pollinators that has him meticulously pollinating flowers using a paint brush for over an hour each day. But even these trials haven’t lessened his enthusiasm.

“Being confined to a wheelchair and then released from that prison, it makes you appreciate the simple things of life,” Baker pointed out. ‘

“We all take the simple things for granted until we lose them. It really gives you a different perspective on life… If someone told me five years ago I’d be doing this, I wouldn’t have believed it. I wouldn’t have thought it was possible.”

John Baker standing in the community garden at the Silverton Grange. MELISSA WAGONER

By Melissa Wagoner

Beginning in late June the Silverton Police Department began receiving some very bizarre reports. Apparently a “hairy, man-like creature” has been spotted throughout the city, cavorting with locals, high-fiving teens and even testing his soccer skills on one of Silverton High School’s fields.

“Although residents are labeling the creature ‘Sasquatch,’ the Silverton Police are asking citizens not to jump to conclusions,” Police Chief Jim Anglemier stressed. “As calls have been reported, officers have searched the area, but did not find a Sasquatch or anything resembling the fabled large, hairy, ape-like cryptid.”

And yet, eyewitness accounts have continued to emerge – including one from Addie Carstensen, a 41-year-old mother of two, whose loyal companion, a wire-haired griffon named Luna, was forced to take protective measures when the duo were nearly accosted on a morning walk near the library.

“She was clearly protecting me,” Carstensen said, recalling Luna’s attempt to block the creature’s path. “When it became apparent that she was not going to move… the Sasquatch knew he had met his canine match and moved to the other side of the street… attempting to climb a tree.”

Around that same time, and only a few blocks away, Silver Falls YMCA Front Desk Manager Lisa Kearney also encountered the beast as he walked boldly through the front doors of the pool office.

“All my life I’ve heard that there is Bigfoot in Oregon but I’m so shocked and amazed to finally see him in real life,” she said.

“I figure he probably enjoys the Silver Creek area,” she added. “So, you might see him sometime if you go to the pool.”

Also present during Sasquatch’s poolside visit was 11-year-old Hayden Fast who observed the creature’s initial attempt at making friends with the locals by giving out high-fives and fist bumps before heading toward the park.

“[Hayden] has seen him multiple times now,” the boy’s mother, Heather Desmarteau-Fast, said. Perhaps that confirms Kearney’s suspicions that Sasquatch has become enamored with Silver Creek. “He saw him going over the footbridge to the park on a different day as well.”

But it appears Sasquatch is prone to wander. In fact, sisters Lucy and Ellie Hupp spotted him boldly walking down the sidewalk on July 6 at 10 a.m., prompting a call to the Silver Falls YMCA office, where evidence is being compiled.

“[They] confirmed he is not a bad guy or dangerous,”

Who and where is ‘Sasquatch’?

To report a “Sasquatch” sighting contact Kristi Horner, Silver Falls YMCA office, 421 S. Water St., Silverton 503-873-0205

the girls’ mother, Briana Hupp reported to Sports Coordinator Kristi Horner. “He’s friendly and not a threat to the community.”

And thankfully so because, on July 12 Sasquatch was once again observed, this time on the varsity soccer field of Silverton High School, where a week-long summer camp was taking place.

“We were at the far end of the field while the coaches’ scrimmage was underway and campers were cheering on the game,” Coach Marty Limbird said, setting the stage, “Suddenly we heard screams of excitement and kids running over to connect with Sasquatch. It was a surprise and quite the hit with the 190-plus campers we had in soccer camp this week!”

Unfortunately, after that brief encounter, the hairy biped seemingly vanished, prompting the Silver Falls YMCA to post a series of ads extolling all Silverton residents to contact the office immediately – either in-person at 421 S. Water St. or by phone at 503-873-0205 – so that this information may be shared with Silverton Police, who are still investigating the beast’s true identity.

“[We] continue to use all available tools of forensic investigation to confirm the true identity of the elusive person, creature, or Sasquatch that has been spotted in local parks and streets…” Chief Anglemier said in a statement to the press in which he admitted, “Silverton Police are remaining optimistic that the creature is actually a Sasquatch…”

Blake MacQuarrie and Addison Barnes pose with Silverton’s Sasquatch. COURTESY OF KRISTA LEE MACQUARRIE

Silver Falls Park upgrades North Canyon access, amenities

By James Day

Silver Falls State Park has unveiled new trail links and visitors amenities at its North Canyon day-use area. Using funds from state general obligation bonds aimed at improving parks and campgrounds, Silver Falls has added a new parking lot, restrooms, an information kiosk and permit pay station as well as a new trail that links the area with North Falls.

The new trail runs 0.5 miles to a splendid viewpoint of North Falls, then continues for another 0.5 miles to North Falls itself and connections to the Rim, Perimeter and Canyon trails. The Rim Trail shadows Highway 214 and ends at South Falls. The Canyon Trail takes visitors on the popular ten-waterfall loop, while the Perimeter heads steeply into the park’s little-used back country, often at altitudes above 2,000 feet.

In addition, hikers can head down the ridge from the North Canyon via a short but challenging existing trail to Twin Falls and another connection of the Canyon Trail as well as access to the nearby cutoff to Winter Falls.

“We are all very excited to have the new area open to our visitors,” Chris Gilliand, park manager, told Our Town

The bond money – ultimately $10 million to $12 million will be spent – also is funding more upgrades. These

include a new visitor center and campground, which are planned for property across Highway 214 from the North Canyon area. Interior work for the visitor center is set for 2024, with campground construction set to begin in April 2025.

“The goal is to spread the parking and starting points out across the park,” Gilliand said. “We still anticipate and hope visitors will see South Falls, but we see a need to have a greater developed starting point as you arrive at the park from the north side.

“We will often reach capacity at the South Falls parking

area on busy days, and visitors tend to start parking in unsafe locations when this happens, such as along the highway shoulder or blocking emergency vehicle access.” The North Rim Trail, which opened July 17, is rated Americans With Disabilities Act accessible for its halfmile run to the viewpoint. The trail segment between the viewpoint and North Falls, however, is not ADA accessible.

In addition to the other upgrades the North Canyon’s nature play area also has reopened.

Looking for a new primary care provider?

Stacy M. Brueckner, DO Monica Henderson, FNP Joel S. Roberts, FNP

A look at North Falls from the new North Canyon viewpoint. Amenities of the new space include a parking lot, with a visitor center and campground planned across Highway 214. JAMES DAY

By Melissa Wagoner

Clothing doesn’t have to be new to be trendy. In fact, for Beth Lau – whose affection for thrifted and vintage clothing goes all the way back to her childhood as one of 10 siblings in love with classic TV – preworn is almost always better.

“Ever since my early teens I was always drawn to vintage stores,” she said, describing her methods for obtaining clothing as a mixture of second-hand shopping, bartering and gifting that allows her to not only cultivate a unique look but to do so on a budget without ever leaving her hometown of Silverton.

“There are a lot of people who don’t want to venture out of town,” she pointed out. “And we have a lot of great options here.”

Like Somewhere in Time Resale and Collectibles, which opened in 2016.

“There is a wide variety of people who shop us…” owner Robin Webb said of the store’s clientele, which not only ranges in age, but includes tourists as well as locals.

“We get a lot of visitors and repeat customers from the Portland area,” she said. “I believe we are much cheaper than they find in the PDX area.”

And with a better selection than most chain stores.

“[We] have a better selection as it’s a wider variety of items than ten specific tops in five sizes each,” Webb said. “Here, no two items are the same.”

It’s a variety that appeals to shoppers like Lau, who uses her style to stand out from the crowd.

“Thrifting is fun because you don’t have to follow the fashion of the day,” she said. “And thrifting and repurposing helps me lessen my impact on the planet.”

It’s a message she hopes to pass on to her children.

“[Y]ou don’t need the latest and greatest thing…” she said. “I think that’s overvalued in our throw-away society. And there’s something special about second-hand. People snoot at it because we’re fed that new is what you need but

when you get past the corporate you get to where customizing is more important than what you’re told to wear.”

Vintage fashion-seeker Beth Lau, modeling preowned attire. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Vintage shopping gives new life to old clothes

Thrift and vintage shopping options

Daylight Vintage

106 S. First St., Silverton

Deb’s Attic

611 N. First St., Stayton

Goodwill

601 N. Water St., Silverton

Somewhere in Time Resale and Collectibles, 111 Fiske St., Silverton

And customizing doesn’t have to be hard. “You don’t have to do it well to have it look good,” Lau – who uses the basic sewing skills she learned from her great grandmother to alter the size or silhouette of garments – said. “If it’s not the style you want, modify it at home.”

It’s a method long-time thrift shopper, Shelby Keys, also employs.

“I can alter things to be what I want, whether it is a t-shirt I make, a tank top, a sueded skirt I give some fringe to, or an article of clothing I distress on my own,” Keys said. She was introduced to thrift shopping by her mom and grandma. “The possibilities are endless. Over the past year I remodeled and redecorated my entire home, a very large portion of my decor came from thrifting. Instead of endlessly looking for the exact item… you can explore the shops and look for shapes, colors, a basic frame and then paint or add to it however you want.”

But not everything needs alteration. Vintage clothing, for example, is most often kept intact, prized as a snapshot from another time.

“With vintage you’re paying for period clothes of good quality,” Lau said of the contrast between items found in a thrift shop versus those found in a vintage boutique. “And you’re going to treat them differently.”

It’s the difference between purchasing a genuine Elvis Costello T-shirt from the 1970s and a much cheaper knock-off originating in a store like Target, Ross Kuhn, owner of Daylight Vintage in Silverton, explained.

“If it’s a historical thing it’s always going

to have value. If you buy the original thing the value is just going to go up.” And then there is the history itself.

“Old things have a feeling,” Kuhn said, “like when something’s been worn and used over and over, there’s a feeling about it.”

“You can imagine all kinds of stories,” Lau agreed. “That’s where the sentimental impact shines for vintage clothing. I’ll wear a 1940s dress and think, someone could have received their loved ones back from war or worn this to prom.”

But the uniqueness of the garments can also have downsides, especially when it comes to shopping for items of a specific color, style or size.

“Sizing is always tough,” Keys said, “it’s changed so much through the years.”

But, as with most clothing stores, that’s where the store owner can be of assistance.

“Always ask the person up front if they know where, or if, [they] carry what you’re looking for…” Debbie Turner suggested. She’s owned the thrift store Deb’s Attic in Stayton since 2004. Often, the items in the store were handpicked.

“I mostly purchase… from private sales, yard sales and other stores…” Turner said. “I also receive donations here and there that help refine what I carry.” It’s a variety that many customers find astonishing – and occasionally overwhelming.

“It’s hard not to get overwhelmed,” Lau admitted. “So, typically I limit myself to one color for the day. Or if I’m looking for a special occasion, I look specifically for a style. But if it’s unique, I pick it up, even if I end up giving it to someone else.”

Like the pair of 1970s crushed velvet pants she found on sale that, although they weren’t in her size, ended up being perfect for her daughter.

“Everything is a treasure to someone,” Turner said. It just might take some looking to find that one, special thing.

Buy • Sell • Auction • Rentals

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‘Emerging from the clouds’

By Stephen Floyd

Sister Protasia Schindler’s name comes up in many conversations about the Sisters of Queen of Angels Monastery. Not as an administrator or reformer. Her paintings adorned the halls and helped foster a thriving culture of arts and letters. Even the giant sequoia outside the front steps was her unintentional handiwork.

Schindler’s whimsy and spirited approach to monastic life was felt by those around her, and is still seen today at Queen of Angels.

Schindler’s contributions helped the order define their outlook on faith, even as the Sisters departed the monastery in May. The remaining members have moved to Mount Angel Towers, or Providence Benedictine Orchard House for those needing extra care.

While the order has transitioned out of monastery housing, and their legacy within the community continues. The following draws heavily from A Tree

Rooted in Faith by Sister Alberta Dieker,

a thoroughly-researched history of the order published in 2007.

Sharing herself in her work

Schindler’s membership in the order began in 1884, just two years after the Benedictine Sisters established themselves in Oregon after immigrating from Switzerland. A Gervais native, Schindler was a student of the nuns. At the age of 14 she became one of the first Americans to join the order.

She was proud of her faith and her community, and was part of efforts to build and adorn the monastery when construction began in 1885. Among her

notable contributions were the stations of the cross in the chapel, painted in oil on canvas. Her portraits of St. Benedict and his twin sister St. Scholastica hung in the halls.

Dieker said this art helped tell the story of the Sisters and their 141-year history in Oregon. Though diaries and annals record specific events, there are very few

records of the lives and personalities of the Sisters. It is through the works they left behind that we have a glimpse of who they were.

“Certainly each one played a part in her own way, with her own motives and dreams,” said Dieker.

She said Schindler’s work revealed her to be a remarkable artist who was

The Benedictine Sisters historic Queen of Angels Monastery in Mount Angel. CATHY CHENEY

Witnessing Queen of Angel’s legacy through historic Sister’s artistic contributions

self-taught and drew from inspiration. When describing the painting titled “Mary, Queen of Angels” depicting the Assumption of Mary, Schindler said the many cherubs and angels “just emerged from the clouds” as she painted.

An image of faith

Schindler’s most visible achievement, though she never intended it to be, came in 1893 when she planted the sequoia that grows outside the monastery entrance.

The story goes that Schindler’s was walking along the railroad tracks near the monastery and noticed two saplings, presumably deposited there by seeds from passing lumber trains. She sought help to dig up and replant the trees, and nurtured them using dishwater from the kitchen. One tree did not survive. The other grew, and grew, and eventually became taller than the monastery, revealing itself to be a giant sequoia. Apparently one conifer sapling looks very much like another to the untrained eye. Schindler later

remarked that, if she had known, she would never have planted the tree there.

The sequoia is now one of the hallmarks of the monastery, standing 129 feet tall

Benedictine Sisters hold Estate Sale

Aug. 4 & 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Agatha Hall at Queen of Angels Monastery, 840 S Main St., Mount Angel

The Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel are holding an estate sale featuring collectibles, art, furniture and other treasures at Queen of Angels Monastery.

The Sisters have moved out of the monastery and are parting with the possessions that remain including household items, books, rosaries and many other collectibles gathered over the years. Some artwork may also be available. For additional information, call 503-845-2556.

A painting depicting St. Benedict and St. Scholastica by Sr. Protasia Schindler. STEPHEN FLOYD

Continued from page 13

and celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. It is also the namesake of Dieker’s book. In the forward, former Prioress

Dorothy Jean Beyer wrote the sequoia is an apt metaphor of finding strength in the unexpected.

“Our monastic ‘tree’ has been rooted in the faith of our pioneer sisters and grown by courageous, self-sacrificing love,” Beyer wrote.

The next chapter

Schindler died in 1959 at age 89, just before the Sisters entered an era of modern changes that lead to a slow decline in religious orders throughout Catholicism. Laypeople were allowed to serve in ministry without taking vows, and society was affording options to women that were not encouraged in the 19th century.

In 2022, the 16 members remaining Sisters of Queen of Angels made the difficult decision to vacate the monastery

and place it in the care of someone who would honor their legacy of community service. Their move was completed in June. Their final Sunday mass at the monastery was July 9.

The future ownership of the monastery and its grounds is still uncertain. Arrangements with Mountain West Investments to develop mixed-density, community-centered housing fell through in April.

Catholic Community Service is one of the potential buyers. Early on CCS committed to overseeing continuing programs at the monastery. It will operate the Mission Benedict resource center and St. Joseph Family Shelter, and will partner with Fr. Bernard Youth Center.

CCS spokesperson Mona Hayes said they will also partner with the Sisters who wish to remain active in ministry, striving to “offer hope and healing” to those in need in the community.

Colegio Cesar Chavez 50th Anniversary

Supporters of Colegio Cesar Chavez will be hosting a 50th anniversary celebration on Aug. 26 in Mount Angel. The public is welcome to attend.

Hosted by PODER, a Woodburn-based nonprofit focused on supporting the Latinx community, the event will celebrate the school’s pivotal role as the first accredited, independent four-year Chicano/Latino college in the U.S.

Colegio Cesar Chavez was founded in 1973 at the site of the former Mount Angel College, which closed that year amid falling enrollment and struggles to repay a federal building loan.

Mount Angel College was originally founded in 1897 as Normal College by the Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel.

A public celebration

Saturday, Aug. 26, noon to 5 pm Father Bernard Youth Center 980 S. Main St., Mount Angel

Colegio Cesar Chavez helped pioneer the College Without Walls program, which promoted community service and student-directed learning. By 1983 the college was also struggling to repay a federal loan and to maintain accreditation. It closed that June.

The PODER release said the organization is honored to spotlight an historic and influential institution and its profound impact on Latinx students. The program will include music, storytelling, refreshments and entertainment.

inspection and closing process. Between the two of them, Whitney and Mike also made the whole process work with our schedule. We found a dream home in a very competitive market and much thanks to Silverton Realty.” – Cooper

Have Whitney and Mike Ulven of Silverton Realty lead you on your journey home!

Whitney & Mike Ulven cell: 503-705-6118

New mural Historic Silver Creek mill site featured

By Melissa Wagoner

The Fischer Flouring Mill was once one of the most eye-catching pieces of architecture in Silverton. Located along Silver Creek –where Silver Falls Library and Old Mill Park are situated today – the mill utilized state of the art turbine-powered electricity to process various grains for farmers in the Silverton area for over 30 years before the Great Depression initiated its closure.

“The Fischer Mill was an outstanding photo subject,” Fred Parkinson, vice president of the Silverton Country Historical Society, said. He was referring to the numerous photos the organization has depicting the mill from different angles and during various seasons. “It was an important part of Silverton.”

Which is why it is the subject of the Silverton Mural Society’s newest mural, currently receiving the finishing touches in the Borland Gallery of the Silverton Arts Association.

“I’m excited to have it complete,” muralist Tonya Smithburg said.

“I’m excited to see it on the building.”

Scheduled for installation on a wall of Silver Falls Library, the mural will be publicly unveiled on Aug. 5 at 2 p.m. A presentation of its history, given by Parkinson, will be provided shortly after.

“It will hopefully spark curiosity,” Smithburg said of the mural’s purpose. Along with relating the history of the Flouring Mill, it tells the story of Silverton as well.

Fischer Flouring Mill mural unveiling

Silver Falls Library, 410 S. Water St., Silverton Saturday, Aug. 5, 2 p.m.

History presentation by the Silverton Country Historical Society’s Vice President, Fred Parkinson, to follow.

“It’s really detailed and a lot for people to look at so I’m glad it’s going somewhere people can walk up to.”

And be inspired for generations to come.

Artist Tonya Smithburg working on the new mural. MELISSA WAGONER

EVERYDAY

Crafts Fair

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sun: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Arts and crafts vendors, food court, and fun stuff for all ages.

Homer Davenport

Invitational Brew Fest

Regular festival hours in the Park. Featuring beers, ciders and wineries from all over the Willamette Valley. Sponsored by Astound Broadband.

International Cartoon Contest Exhibit

Friday, opening reception from 6 - 8 p.m. Saturday, 12 - 6 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Silverton Community Center. Vote for the People’s Choice Award. The exhibit will include several full-size original Davenport cartoons from the Silverton Country Historical Society’s collection. Sponsored by Team Lamp Post Properties, LLC and Jeff Ulven & Stephanie Colyer with BST Realty.

FRIDAY, AUG. 4

First Friday

7 - 9 p.m. in Downtown Silverton. Galleries and shops open late.

SATURDAY, AUG. 5

Lions Club Harvest Breakfast

7 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Park Pavilion. 75th anniversary of this Silverton tradition. Silverton Lions Club and Boy Scout Troop 485 serve ham, eggs cooked to order, pancakes and beverages. $8 for adults, $4 for 10 & under.

Silverton Flywheels

Homer Car Show

9 a.m. -3 p.m. NEW LOCATION! Anytime

Fitness at 118 Brown St. Classic cars on display – muscle, trucks, hot rods and more! Scholarship fundraising silent auction: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Oral auction: 1 p.m.

Hometown Parade

10 a.m. in Downtown Silverton. See route map on opposite page. Floats, marching musicians, fun. Sponsored by The Den.

The Life & Times of Homer Davenport

12:30 & 3:30 p.m. at Silver Falls Library. A visual overview of Homer Davenport, presented by local historian Gus Frederick.

Fischer’s Mill Mural Unveiling

2 p.m. at Silver Falls Library. Silverton’s newest mural will be revealed, on the site of the landmark business operation. Followed by an in-depth presentation on the history of the mill by historian Fred A. Parkinson.

Coolidge-McClaine Park

303 Coolidge St., Silverton

Festival Committee

Richard Carlson President

Denis Dalisky Treasurer

Lari Rupp Craft Booths/Food Vendors

Stephanie Colyer Parade

Eric Druliner Brew Fest/Food Vendors

Deanna Feller

Davenport Races

Gus Frederick Cartoon Contest

Josh Ort Volunteer Coordinator/ Poop Scoop Patrol

Kyle Palmer Special Consultant at Large/Permits/ Poop Scoop Patrol

Stacy Palmer Chamber Liaison

Georgia Marsh Roth’s Liaison

Bill Cameron Volunteer at Large

Becky Ludden Volunteer at Large

Ken Hector Poop Scoop Patrol

Steve Ritchie

Homer’s Classic Rand Breitbach

Silverton Flywheels Cruise-In

Program Designer Tavis Bettoli-Lotten Program Sales Jim Kinghorn Program Publisher Paula Mabry

Photos by Jim Kinghorn

Legend

Parade Horse Parking Homer Classic Sunday, 9 a.m. Silverton High, 1456 Pine St.

Silverton Country Museum

428 S. Water St.

SUNDAY, AUG. 6

Lions Club Harvest Breakfast

7 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Park Pavilion. See info for Saturday.

Davenport Races

Sunday, Noon on Main St.

Silverton

Flywheels Car Show

Saturday, Anytime Fitness, 118 Brown St.

Cartoon Contest Exhibit

Silverton Council Chambers, 421 S. Water St. Public Rest Rooms

Trolley Pickup

Silverton

Homer Classic

8K Run & 2-Mile Run/Walk

9 a.m. Starts at Silverton High School, 1456 Pine St. near tennis courts. The 8K route includes Gallon House Bridge. Ribbons presented to top three in each of the five age brackets. Organized by Silverton Runners’ Club, proceeds benefit high school track & cross country programs. More info at: runsignup.com/Race/OR/Silverton/ HomerClassic. Register by Aug. 5.

Barb Rue Memorial Davenport Races

12 - 3 p.m. on Main Street in Downtown. Participants assemble at 11 a.m., judging is at 11:30 a.m. The legendary Homer Davenport tradition of racing couches on wheels in the middle of town. Sponsored by Willamette Valley Bank.

MUSIC SCHEDULE

Sponsored by The Killers Pest Control

FRIDAY, AUG. 4

The Eric ‘Sugar’ Larsen Group

2 - 4 p.m. Blues, Rock & Soul.

Wild Horse

5 - 7 p.m. Guitar hooks in Blues, Soul & Funk.

Jacob Westfall

7:45 - 10 p.m. Americana Tender Rock.

SATURDAY, AUG. 5

Tuesday String Band

12 - 2 p.m. Fast pickin’ traditional.

The Lewis Bradshaw Band

2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Folk-inspired guitar originals.

The Gabriel Cox Band

5 - 7 p.m. Pacific Northwest Rock & Blues.

The Timothy James Band

7:45 - 10 p.m. One-of-a-kind Pop/Rock.

SUNDAY, AUG. 6

Syco Billys String Band

11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Americana, Blue Grass and electric Folk.

Michael Paul Reed

1 - 3:15 p.m. Street-taught, elevated Rock.

Homer’s Trolley Schedule

Friday (also for Vendor usage): 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday (post-Parade): Noon - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

HOMER

The Standing

3:45 - 6 p.m. Outlaw Stomp-Grass Americana

All acts on the Main Stage in the Park.

Eric Larsen

Gabriel Cox

Michael Paul Reed

A Silverton man has pleaded guilty to vandalism after a graffiti spree last winter that saw thousands of dollars in damage to local public and private buildings.

Roman L. Cunningham, 23, pleaded guilty June 29 to a felony charge of first-degree criminal mischief in Marion County Circuit Court.

He is scheduled for sentencing Dec. 11 and, if he complies with the terms of a plea agreement, the charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor. He has agreed to 100 hours of community service, to write an apology letter to the mayor of Silverton to be published in the local newspaper, and to complete mental health counseling.

Cunningham was arrested Dec. 20, 2022, for a series of taggings that month at parks, bridges and businesses in Silverton. Damage to city property alone was estimated at $4,000.

Former local vet charged with animal neglect

A former local veterinarian has been charged with felony animal neglect after more than two-dozen sheep were allegedly mistreated.

Brian James Dietrich, 43, of Scio, was charged July 12 in Linn County Circuit Court with 27 separate counts of second-degree animal neglect.

He owned Abiqua Animal Clinic from 2009 to 2016. He currently owns Scio Animal Clinic.

Authorities allegedly found 27 sheep owned by Dietrich confined and neglected for a prolonged period on a Scio farm. Several were allegedly unable to walk properly due to injuries, one was found dead and a second died in custody.

Dietrich was arrested July 11 and released from the Linn County Jail on the condition that he have no livestock or pets in his personal care as he awaits trial.

New forgery case against Silverton woman

A Silverton woman has been charged with forgery after allegedly attempting to deposit fraudulent checks in an ATM.

Jessica Lynn Kilmurray, 47, was charged in Marion County Circuit Court June 7 with two counts of firstdegree forgery, for which she faces up to five years in prison.

Kilmurray allegedly deposited two forged checks at an ATM in Woodburn on Jan. 9, each in excess of $1,000. The victim was described as a Salem man. Kilmurray was previously convicted of forgery in 2016 and sentenced to three years of probation. Her probation

was revoked in 2019 after repeated failures to report to community corrections, and she was re-sentenced to a year-and-a-half in prison.

Trial set in personal injury suit against SFSD

A trial has been set for next winter in a $370,000 personal injury lawsuit against the Silver Falls School District by a former middle school student. Cramer vs. SFSD is scheduled for trial Jan. 22, 2024, in Marion County Circuit Court before Judge James Edmonds, with proceedings expected to last four days. The suit was filed Nov. 29, 2022. The student allegedly broke a leg in 2017 after slipping and falling in a recently-mopped bathroom at Silverton Middle School. The plaintiff was 11 years old at the time and is represented in court by guardian ad litem Kimberly Cramer.

The district has denied wrongdoing and claims the plaintiff is unable to prove the district was at fault, and any injuries were the result of plaintiff’s own negligence. Plaintiff is represented by Salem attorney Travis Prestwich; the district by Salem attorney Luke Reese.

– Stephen Floyd

Oregon passes Consumer Privacy Act to protect personal data

Lawmakers have passed the Oregon Consumer Privacy Act, aimed at giving consumers more knowledge and control over how their private data is used.

Gov. Tina Kotek signed Senate Bill 619 into law July 18 after it received widespread bipartisan support in the legislature.

The new law establishes rights for consumers and sets limits on how businesses and nonprofits can collect, use and share private data. The new provisions include:

Right to Know: Consumers have the right to know who is processing their data and who their data is being shared with, and can request copies of the data being processed.

Right to Data Portability: Requests for data must be fulfilled in a format that is easily transferred between persons.

Right to Correction: Consumers have the right to correct inaccuracies in their data.

Right to Deletion: Consumers have the right to have their data deleted if it is collected.

Right to Opt Out: Consumers can opt out of having their data processed for targeted ads, or being used to

determine outcomes of applications for home loans, college admissions, insurance, employment or similar decisions of legal significance.

Sensitive Data Protection: Processors must obtain consent before collecting or using personal data that details a consumer’s race, ethnicity, national origin, religious beliefs, medical diagnoses, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a victim of crime, citizenship or immigration status, and biometric information.

Special Protections for Youth: Parents and guardians can exercise these rights on behalf of children. The data of consumers 13 and younger must be handled according to the federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, while opt-in consent is required for targeted ads or the sale of data for consumers between 13 and 15.

In a press release, Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said the new law takes a comprehensive approach to consumer protections and holds companies to a high standard of accountability.

“This is a huge win for Oregonians and sets a highwater mark for consumer data privacy nationwide,” she said.

– Stephen Floyd

503.979.5132

Something to Think About Wildfire school Workshop offers tips on fire prevention

By James Day

About 50 people gathered Saturday morning at The Oregon Garden to learn more about wildfire resiliency and emergency preparedness.

Experts from the Silverton Fire District, the Office of the State Fire Marshal and Oregon State University Extension offered tips to the group, which consisted of local residents, environmental activists, fire officials and landscaping professionals.

Key topics covered included wildfire risk evaluation, home hardening, creating defensible space around the home, preparing to evacuate and fire-resistant plants. Participants rotated through four stations in what proved to be an information-packed three hours.

“Something is changing with fire,” said Kayla Bordelon of OSU Extension, in opening remarks to the full group. “We didn’t used to have these large, intense wildfires. And the paradox is that fire is a long-standing part of nature here. Fire was an essential process that cleared out the understory, kind of like a spring cleaning. And with climate change, drier conditions allow fires to burn more intensely.”

Station 1, defensible space

Bordelon, a regional fire specialist for the Willamette Valley and North Cascades, led the defensible space tour stop. The space in question goes from zero to 100 feet from the house or other structure.

About 90% of the fire spread, Bordelon said, stems from flying embers, which means homeowners must be vigilant about embers hopping on “ladder fuels” from a tree to an outbuilding to a deck to the main house.

No vegetation should be within five feet of the house and firewood should be at least 30 feet away. Shrubs should not be clumped together, and flammable items such as benches and trellises should have buffers.

Station 2, emergency preparedness

Four professionals with the Silverton Fire District offered tips on this topic and they noted that most of the items

that will help you get through the critical first 72 hours will fit in the common back pack. Firefighter Max Hughes recommended filling your pack in advance and leaving it in a closet by the door so you can pick it up and evacuate immediately should the Level 3 alert hit. Essentials to pack, Hughes said, were food, water, first aid kit, toiletries and toilet paper.

“And don’t forget your dogs and cats,” said Lt. Dan Brown.

A key challenge for rural residents is how to evacuate livestock.

“If you have 30 horses you can’t move them two at a time,” said Keith Veit, assistant chief for Silverton Fire. Brown added that residents should know alternative routes to get out and to make sure that their address numbers can be easily spotted by first-responders.

Residents also should be careful where they get their information and should only pay attention to trusted, official sources.

Brown told a story of a social media post that indicated that the 2020 Beachie Creek fire had “jumped” The Silverton Reservoir. The fire never got anywhere near the reservoir.

The Silverton Fire District, the OSFM and other fire agencies have started doing home assessments to

assist residents. Go to https://experience.arcgis.com/ experience/138a924877f145a984ea3b4108edb3ec/ to sign up.

Station 3, fire-resistant vegetation

Brooke Edmunds, an OSU Extension horticulturist, led this group. She emphasized that the goal is NOT to have an empty yard. Instead, she recommended fire breaks between plants and to use fire-resistant varieties.

“Smaller clusters, more empty spaces,” she said. “You don’t have to have a completely barren landscape. You just have to be thoughtful about it.”

The Oregon Garden venue for the workshop produced visible reminders of the dos and don’ts. Edmunds complimented a landscape plot that had plenty of space around plants. But a hillside behind Edmunds contained leaves from last fall and winter as well as shrubs that had grown too close together. And a nearby arbor vitae hedge allowed her to demonstrate that the shrub is a virtual storage cell of flammable materials.

An audience member who works in landscaping recommended the leland cypress as an alternative to arbor vitae.

Station 4, home hardening

Stephanie Stafford of the OSFM led the final session, which focused on the types of building materials that offer the most protection.

Cedar shake roofs are not recommended, with asphalt shingle a good alternative. Stafford noted that a lot of residents in the Santiam Canyon who are rebuilding are choosing metal roofs,

Stafford also noted the importance of cleaning gutters and roofs, especially before fire season. “That’s No. 1, make sure your roof is clean,” she said.

Fiber cement is recommended for siding, with non-wood composite products such as deck boards for porches and decks.

“It’s a fire-resistant composite material that will last for years and you don’t have to stain it,” Stafford said.

Kayla Bordelon, OSU Extension regional fire specialist, discusses the fire danger of decks during a wildfire resiliency workshop on July 22 at the Oregon Garden JAMES DAY

“Ya Gotta Serve Somebody!”

Bob Dylan once observed in one of his most insightful moments, “You gotta serve somebody. It may be the devil, or it may be the Lord, but you gotta serve somebody.” He was right. No one can avoid serving. The question is whom will you serve?

There is a story in the Book of Joshua Old Testament of the Bible where the nation of Israel was confronted by their new leader, Joshua, concerning where their true allegiance lay. In their case, there were three “options” to choose. Not just God or the devil.

“Okay Israel, Listen Up.”

“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the river, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:14-15

This was a very important moment in history. Not just for Israel, but for all mankind. That’s because it was through this nation of Israel that God would fulfill His promise to send a Savior into the world. Starting all the way back in Genesis 3, God had promised the “seed of the woman” would one day “crush the head of the serpent.” (i.e. Satan). But in doing so that “seed” would have to suffer.

Seed? Serpent? Does this all sound crazy? In light of the New Testament we now know that the “seed of the woman” is Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus had to be born of His mother alone, without the involvement of any human father, because God Himself is His father. That woman turned out to be a godly young virgin named Mary and it was all foretold by the Jewish prophets hundreds of years before it happened (see Is. 7:14 & Mic. 5:2). A virgin would conceive and give birth to the Savior in Bethlehem.

You probably know the story of Christmas. But for Jesus to be born of the Virgin Mary and laid in that manger, there first had to be a nation of Israel for Him to be born into. That’s why their decision that day was so important.

Three Options To Choose From

It’s interesting that the three options Joshua presented to the Israelites back then are still our only options today. Every one who has ever lived has had to choose whether or not to serve either the gods of tradition, the gods of contemporary culture, or the Lord Himself. Option #1. The first option mentioned, “the god’s of your forefathers,” are the inherited gods of family tradition. In Joshua’s day “the gods your forefathers” were the gods of pagan idolatry. Generally speaking, an idol is

By Gregg Harris

And Then There Is “The Church of What’s Happening Now”

Joshua’s second option was “the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.” These false god’s represent the the fantasy-gods of contemporary culture, or as Flip Wilson put it so comically in the 1970s, “The Church of What’s Happening Now.” This supposed “spirituality” offers an imaginary comic-book fantasy totally disconnected from ption #2 applies the philosophy of Postmodernism to religion.

any alternative to worshiping the one true God. Wealth, war, and sex were common gods in all ancient cultures. Their physical idols of wood, stone or metal provided focal points to worship the god represented.

God forbade His people to make idols, even to represent Himself, because any attempt to do so would only distort the truth of Who He is. The Apostle Paul tells us Jesus is the “visible image of the invisible God” (Col. 1:15). So Jesus is the only “image” God approves of for Himself.

So, “the gods your forefathers worshiped” are generally the god’s of family tradition. They represent the unchosen faith you were born into. It’s the one you probably even take for granted. This option lulls people into a false sense of confidence that they are saved. The question is, are you going to just go along with whatever religion you were born into? It could be a cult or a false religion. But even if it is true Biblical Christianity, if your only relationship to it is that your parents took you to that church, if you have no personal faith in Jesus, then even though it is true, it will not save you from God’s judgment when Jesus returns. You cannot be saved by your parent’s faith. You have to believe in Jesus on your own and for yourself. God has no grandchildren, only children.

We often hear of RINOs, (i.e. Republicans In Name Only). Well there are also CINOs (i.e. Christians In Name Only). They are what Christians call “nominal Christians,” people who bear the name of Christ in vain because they don’t really believe in Him or obey Him.

The postmodernist has stopped looking for the truth and instead has settled for any good fantasy that works for him. He embraces it by suspending his disbelief enough to participate in its social life. He knows its not true. But it invites him to do things, like go to ComicCon, have friends, or even go to church

brought them back to Himself over and over again (though often through very painful national distress), until the stage was finally set for Jesus to be born as that baby in Bethlehem into the blood-line of the Jews. Then that baby grew up. Jesus went on to live the perfectly sinless life we were all supposed to live, but have not. Jesus then died the horrible death that we all deserve because of our rebellion. He never sinned. That why He could die in our place. His body lay in the grave for three days until God the Father raised Jesus from the dead. God did this in order to prove that Jesus’ death was full payment for all our sins. Now, “whoever believes in Jesus will not perish, but have eternal life” (see John 3:16). That is the good news. Choosing this Option #3 is the only way you can escape the other two options.

So, Who’s It Gonna Be?

Everyone has to choose whom they will serve from among these three options. If one option doesn’t get you another one will. So, will it be:

1. The inherited gods of family tradition? The god’s your forefathers served?

2. The new fantasy-gods of contemporary culture where you now live?

The sad truth is that many people do use Christianity as nothing more than “a good fantasy that works for them.” They go to church without believing. They have no real faith in Jesus, nor in the gospel. This doesn’t save anyone from anything except loneliness.

Agree With Us Or Else!

Sometimes the gods of contemporary culture become coercive. Imperial Rome fed early Christians to the lions for being atheists toward their gods. Later, in the Middle Ages, both Roman Catholicism and Islam resorted to coercion to make converts. Today, we see this same kind of coercion in Communist China’s social credit system. A similar system is exerting pressure on businesses in the U.S. to be appropriately “woke.” Social and financial rewards flow to those who go along, while harsh punishments come to those who won’t. Refuse to march, or wave the right movement’s flag, and you will pay the price.

The Israelites Chose Correctly

Option #3. After receiving Joshua’s charge, the people responded, “We will serve the LORD our God and obey him.” (Josh. 24:24). And so they did. The nation of Israel was established. But after a few generations they drifted away from God to worship the gods of the nations all around them. God mercifully

3. The LORD God Who offers to lead you out of slavery to the other two options?

Joshua had already made his choice. “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” His LORD is the God Who revealed Himself to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses. Joshua was determined to serve the one true and living God of the Bible. But there is something about really believing in God that makes you want to bring your family and friends along with you. Men of God have this God-given desire to tell others. That is why I focus my efforts on reaching men first. Then I encourage them to share their faith in Jesus with their wives, children and neighbors. Want to have a conversation about this? Let’s talk. Call or text me at 503-926-1388 and we can meet together for coffee. I’ll buy.

Join Me for My Weekly Men’s Breakfast!

Every Thurs. from 5:30 to 7:00 AM at 409 South Water Street, Silverton We Pray for our City, Study the Bible & Enjoy a Great Breakfast. Call or text 503-926-1388 to RSVP Go to NobleInn.org/articles for more info & to read all 7 articles.

“Now, “whoever believes in Jesus will not perish, but have eternal life” (see John 3:16). That is the good news. Choosing this Option #3 is the only way you can escape the other two options.”

Gregg Harris, “The Terrarium Guy In Silverton”

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, 421 S Water St.

Weekly Events

Monday

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield St. Seniors 50 and older. Daily, weekly, monthly events. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniorcenter.org

Morning Yoga, 10 a.m., Confluence Arts Center, 20159 Hazelnut Ridge Road, Scotts Mills. All levels welcome. Drop-ins $20; or pay what you can. Register at confluenceartscenter.org/events.

SACA Food Pantry, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St. Repeats 4 - 7 p.m.

Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - noon Thursdays. 503873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tuesday - Saturday. 503-845-6998

Silverton Meals on Wheels, 11:30 a.m., Silverton Senior Center. Congregate and drive-up dining. $3 donation suggested. Mon. - Fri. RSVP to Carol, 503-873-6906.

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. Eat in or to go. All welcome. 503-873-5446

Boy Scouts Troop 485, 7 - 8:30 p.m., St. Edward’s Catholic Church, 211 W Center St., Silverton. Scoutmaster Dave Tacker, 760-644-3147, dave.tacker@gmail.com

Tuesday

Scotts Mills Food Boxes, 9 - 11 a.m., Scotts Mills Community Center, 298 Fourth St. Donations welcome. Niki Barber, 503-873-5059

Community Helpers Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Age

2 - 5. Indoor playtime follows at 11 a.m. 503-845-6401

Mt. Angel Senior Meals, 10:30 - 11 a.m. Delivery only. $3 donation suggested. Repeats Thursdays. Ginger, 503-845-9464. Stories & STEAM, 3:30 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. 503-845-6401

SACA Food Pantry, 4 - 7 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Serenity Al-Anon Meeting, 5:30 p.m. Zoom. Repeats 10 a.m. Saturdays. Zoom link: Barbara K, 503-269-0952.

Cub Scout Pack 485, 6:30 p.m., St. Edward’s Catholic Church, 211 W Center St., Silverton. Boys and girls in K - 5th grade. Deb Hilterbrand, 971-337-5925

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. Networking meeting of the Silverton business community hosted by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. Everyone welcome. silvertonchamber.org

Quilters Group, 9 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com

APPY Hour, noon - 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Drop in for technical assistance for electronic devices. Free. 503-845-6401

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, 1 - 3 p.m., Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St., Silverton. All skill levels. 503-873-4512. Mission of Hope Food Pantry, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. 503-873-7353

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

Open Art Studio, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge. 503-873-2480

TOPS (Take Pounds Off Sensibly), 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St., Silverton. Weight loss with continued support, encouragement. Monthly dues $4. All welcome. David, 503-501-9824

Yoga & Sound Healing, 6 - 7:15 p.m., Confluence Arts Center, 20159 Hazelnut Ridge Road, Scotts Mills. All levels welcome. Drop-ins $25; or pay what you can. Register at confluenceartscenter.org/events

Peace Education Program, 6:30 p.m. Little Leaf Café, 111 N. Water St., Silverton. Nonspiritual, non-political. Free. 503-873-8215

Friday

Toastmaster Club, 7:30 a.m., Zoom. Increase your listening skills, speaking, thinking and evaluating. Contact tmcommunicators@ gmail.com for Zoom link.

Silvertones Community Singers, 10:30 a.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 Main St. All welcome Tomi, 503-873-2033

Saturday

Open Art Studio, 9 a.m., Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. 503-873-2480

Silverton Farmers Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. 503-873-5615

Oregon Crafters Market, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., 215 N Water St., Silverton. Local crafters & artists, live music, food & spirits. Repeats noon - 5 p.m. First Friday session 6 - 9 p.m. only. oregoncraftersmarket.com

Silverton Country History Museum,

1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Free. Repeats Sundays. 503-873-7070

Peaceful Heart Meditation, 2 - 3 p.m., Silverton Community Center. Yoga breathing, kirtan and yoga philosophy. No experience required. Everyone welcome. Free. peacefulheartkirtan@gmail.com

Tuesday, Aug. 1

Drawing Group

6 - 7:30 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. Bring materials or use SAA’s. All welcome. Repeats Aug. 15. 503-873-2480, silvertonarts.org

Parks and Recreation Master Plan

6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Silverton Parks and Recreation master plan project advisory committee meeting. Open to public. 503-873-5321, silverton.or.us

Wednesday, Aug. 2

Caregiver Connection

1 - 2 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. Zoom invite and register: 503-304-3432.

Gallery of Good Causes

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create a poster that represents a cause you care about. Creations on display through August. Age 5 - 12. Free. 503-845-6401 Scotts Mills City Council

7 p.m., Scotts Mills City Hall, 265 Fourth St. Open to public. 503-873-5435

Thursday, Aug. 3

Silverton Kiwanis Club

Noon, Main St. Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. New members welcome. Repeats Aug. 17. Silvertonkiwanis.org

What Do I Read Next?

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Participants learn to use Goodreads and NoveList to browse reading interests, discover new authors, rate and review reads, and choose next literary adventure. Registration is required. 503-845-6401

Angel Ocasio

1 p.m., St. Mary’s Elementary, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. Bilingual comedy and music entertainment. Bring chairs/ blankets. Water provided. In inclement weather, show takes place at library. All welcome. Free. 503-845-6401

Pod People

6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Like a book club but for podcasts. Listen to podcast episodes on animal behavior. Email kbuehner@mtangel.gov to get started. Teens/adults. Free. 503-845-6401

Critique Night

7 - 8:30 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. Bring latest work for discussion, critique amongst other artists in the community. 503-873-2480, silvertonarts.org

Friday, Aug. 4

Benedictine Sisters Estate Sale

9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Agatha Hall, 840 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Last chance to own some of the Sisters old treasurers, collectibles, art, furniture. Repeats 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Aug. 5, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Aug. 6.

503-845-2556

Home Davenport Community Festival

11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Coolidge McClaine Park, Silverton. Arts, crafts, food, music, parade, car show, fun run, Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, Davenport races. Free admission. Repeats

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Aug. 5; 11 a.m. - 6p.m. Aug. 6. For a complete list of events, visit homerdavenport.com.

LEGO Lab

3 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build an original creations out of LEGOs to display in library. Supplies provided. Free. All ages. Repeats Aug. 18. 503-845-6401

First Friday

7 – 9 p.m. Explore the historic downtown, have dinner, shop, browse galleries, boutiques. silvertonchamber.org

Lunaria First Friday

7 - 9 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Opening reception. Main floor gallery features “Connecting with Nature,” paintings by Mary Goodson and ceramics by Lee Jacobson. Loft: features “Bold Colors, Bold Shapes,” paintings by Sally Bills Bailey. Exhibits open 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through Aug. 28. 503-873-7734, lunariagallery.com

The Rustler’s Revenge

7 p.m. Brush Creek Playhouse, 11535 NE Silverton Road, Silverton. Western-themed melodrama. Tickets $10, available at BooksN-Time in Silverton. Continues 7 p.m. Aug. 5, 11 & 12; 2 p.m. Aug. 6 & 13 at 2 p.m. 503-508-3682 Michael, 503-508-3682, brushcreekplayhouse.com

Saturday, Aug. 5

Lions Club Harvest Breakfast

7 a.m. - noon, Coolidge McClaine Park, Silverton. Pancakes, eggs and ham. Repeats Aug. 6. 503-931-1346

Homer Car Show

8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Goodwill, 601 N Water St., Silverton. Classic car and truck show, sponsored by Silverton Flywheels. Trophies, drawings, 50/50 drawing. Adam’s Rib food truck. Coffee available. $20 entry fee.

Sunday, Aug. 6

Homer´s Classic Fun Run

9 a.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. 8K run and 2-mile run and walk. Proceeds benefit Silverton and Mt. Angel running programs. $30 day-of registration. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. homerdavenport.com

Monday, Aug. 7

Music Mondays

6:30 - 8 p.m., Old Mill Park, 412 S Water St., Silverton. Free, family-friendly concerts. Today: Garrison, alternative acoustic. Aug. 14: Syco Billy’s, bluegrass. Aug. 21: The Standing, bluegrass/rock. Sarah, 503-201-4337

Silverton City Council

6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. 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

Tuesday, Aug. 8

Teen Hangout

5 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Board games, crafts, virtual reality games, air conditioning, snacks. Free. Grades 6 - 12. 503-845-6401

Ukulele Play and Sing-Alongs

6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Play and sing with ukuleles. All ages. Children must be accompanied by adult. Music provided. 503-873-8796

Silverton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Open to public. 503-874-2207, silverton.us.or

Wednesday, Aug. 9

Lavender Felt Bouquet

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Keep summer around all year with a lavender made out of felt. All supplies provided. Free. Teens/adults. 503-845-6401

Journaling

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Make a journal, and pencil and pen toppers. Free. Age 5 - 12. 503-845-6401

Thursday, Aug. 10

S.T.R.E.A.M.M.

Noon - 2:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Explore Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, Math and Music at different activity stations. All ages. Free. 503-845-6402

Red Cross Blood Drive

1 - 6:30 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St., Silverton. Appointments needed by visiting redcrossblood.org.

Music on the Lawn

6:30 - 8 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Today: Marion County Citizens Band. Aug. 24: Timothy James. Food and beverages available for purchase. Outside food allowed. Bring chairs/blankets. Well-behaved pets on leashes welcome. Free parking. Ticket prices include after hours admission to the garden. $5 for ages 13 and older. Children 12 and under, and garden members free. Tickets at oregongarden.org.

Writers Cafe

6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Enjoy snacks and time to write with fellow writers. All writer’s welcome. Free. 503-845-6401

Daniel Plan Journey Video Series

6:30 - 8 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship Church. Wellness program. Information: scf.tv/danielplan or Sheila, 503-409-4498.

Friday, Aug. 11

Mt. Angel Garage Sales

All day. Annual city-wide garage sale. Repeats Aug. 12. ci.mt-angel.or.us

The Next Friday

5 - 8 p.m., Mt. Angel. Businesses in Mt. Angel stay open with extra vendors, goodies, information, sales and more. discovermtangel@gmail.com

Library Next Friday

5 - 6:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Tiedye a bandana or bring a white T-shirt. All ages. Free. 503-845-6401

Tune Tours

6 - 8 p.m., Mt. Angel Theater & Studio. dio, 220 E Charles St. Live music and entertainment specifically designed for music lovers and seniors, but all are welcome. $10. In association with Abiqua Studios & Tune Tours. jondeshler.com, mtangeltheaterstudio.com

Movie in the Park

9 p.m., Humpert Park, 400 Alder St., Mt. Angel. Puss in Boots: the Last Wish Free sno-cones. Bring chair/blanket. In inclement weather, movie will be at Mt. Angel Public Library. Karaoke/sing-along at 8 p.m. All ages. 503-845-6401

Saturday, Aug. 12

Jumble Sale

9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Mt. Angel Friends of the Library sale. All proceeds fund library books and programs. 503-845-6401

Scotts Mill Founder’s Day

9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Scotts Mills Grange, 299 Fourth St. Crafts and homemade goods from local vendors. Repeats Aug. 13.

Sunday, Aug. 13

Scotts Mills Historical Museum

1 - 5 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave. Open for public browsing. Free. Open by appointment by contacting Joe Plas, 503871-9803, smahsmuseum@gmail.com

Grange Hoedown & Concert

6:15 p.m., Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Live music, dancing, open mic, nonalcoholic drinks, popcorn. Open mic sign ups begin at 6:15; starts at 6:30 p.m. The Crying Omas perform at 7:45 p.m. Sliding scale donation $5-20. Kids under 18 are free. Proceeds benefit repairs and upgrades to the Grange Hall.

Monday, Aug. 14

Red Cross Blood Drive

11 a.m. - 4 p.m., St. Mary Catholic Church, 575 E College St., Mt. Angel. Appointments needed by visiting redcrossblood.org.

Tuesday, Aug. 15

Silverton Housing Task Force

6:30 p.m., Silverton Council Chambers. Open to public. silverton.or.us

Mt. Angel School District

6:30 p.m., District Office, 730 E Marquam St. Open to public. masd91.org

Silver Falls School District

7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Open to public. 5silverfallsschools.org

Wednesday, Aug. 16

Lunch & Learn

11:30 a.m., Main Street Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. Business professionals connect with fellow business professionals. Lunch is off menu on your own. RSVP is encouraged. Replaces regular Wednesday Business Group meeting. Sponsored by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. 503-873-5615

Oregon Rocks!

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Dig into rocks, fossils, earthquakes and volcanoes through activities and rockin’ specimens. Presented by UofO’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History. All ages. Free. 503-845-6401

Thursday, Aug. 17

Book Discussion for Adults

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict. Copies available at the circulation desk. 503-845-6401

Escape Room

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Help Alice escape the Queen. Grades 6 - 12. Free. 503-845-6401

Silver Falls Writers’ Group

6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Writers share what they have been working on and listen to see what others are writing. Ron Drake, 503-873-8796. Mt. Angel Planning Commission

7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Open to public. Held in conjunction is the Park Tree board meeting. ci.mt-angel.or.us

Friday, Aug. 18

Book Sale

10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Items are $.50 to $1. Fill a bag Saturday for $5. Cash or check only; exact change appreciated. Repeats 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Aug. 19. Sales benefit Friends of the Silver Falls Library.

Saturday, Aug. 19

Silverton Art Festival

10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Coolidge McClaine Park, Silverton. Artists, food vendors, musicians, local groups and more. Demos and activities for children and adults. Free admission. Repeats 10 a.m. 5 p.m. Aug. 20. 503-873-2480, silvertonarts.org

Red Cross Blood Drive

10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Roth’s Fresh Markets, 918 N First St., Silverton. Appointments needed by visiting redcrossblood.org.

Monday, Aug. 21

Silverton City Council Work Session

6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. 503-873-5321, silverton.or.us

Tuesday, Aug. 22

Planning Commission Work Session

6 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. Agenda available. silverton.us.or

Wednesday, Aug. 23

Beaded Crafts

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Use library’s collection of beads to make earrings, bracelets, necklaces or suncatchers. Teens/ adults. Free. 503-845-6401

Creature Teachers

3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Experience the wild, weird, wonderful world of live animals up close and personal. All ages. Free. 503-845-6401

Historical Society Board

7 p.m., Scotts Mill Historical Museum, 210 Grandview Ave. Open to public. Joe, 503-871-9803

Thursday, Aug. 24

Teen Advisory Board

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Teens, ages 12-18, can help collaborate with the library on programs, collections, games and more. Snacks provided. 503-845-6401

Writers Group

6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Gather and chat with fellow writers. Bring up to three pages of work to read and receive feedback. Teens/adults. 503-845-6401

Friday, Aug. 25

Virtual Reality

2 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Book a 30-minute session to experience a virtual reality program. Signed release must be on record. Reservations needed: 503-845-6401.

Monday, Aug. 28

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. Open to all. 503-873-5307

Wednesday, Aug. 30

Water Wednesday

1 - 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Water activities in the courtyard for ages 6 and under. Weather permitting. 503-845-6401

Thursday, Aug. 31

Mt. Angel Summer Reading Finale

1 - 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Games, crafts, prizes, sno-cones, talent show and more. Grand prize drawings at 2:45 p.m. Deadline to turn in reading logs is 1 p.m. to be entered in drawing. Free. 503-845-6401

Verlan Lee Sorter

Sept. 30, 1928 – July 11, 2023

Verlan Lee Sorter died July 11, 2023 at the age of 94 in Florence, Oregon. Born Sept. 30, 1928 in Humble, Texas to Effrige Lee Sorter and Rachel Chastain Adair, Lee proudly served in the U.S. Army. He married Geraldine Gloria Ferraro on April 11, 1953, sharing their lives for 45 years until she passed away on Feb. 20, 1998.

Lee is survived by their four children, Susan (Jeff) Drago of Bend, Lee (Carla) Sorter of Pleasant Hill, Gina (Mike) Hoge of Silverton, and Lance (Darcie) Sorter of Silverton; 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. His grandson, Jordan, preceded him in death. He is also survived by his sister, Zerilda Lervold (Washington); his brother, John Adair (California); and his widow, Helen (Peggy) Sorter. His memory will be treasured by those who knew and loved him. In accordance with Lee’s wishes, no services are planned at this time.

In Memory Of …

Anita Scott

July 30, 1946 — July 4, 2023

James Heintz Dec. 19, 1929 — July 13, 2023

Pat Buchheit Jan. 20, 1943 — July 14, 2023

Elaine Anderson Feb. 15, 1954 — July 18, 2023

Jesus Deloya Hernandez March 14, 1938 — July 19, 2023

Always honoring your request for traditional fire cremation, eco-friendly aqua cremation, celebration of life and funeral services involving earth burial.

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

See full obituaries at www.ungerfuneralchapel.com

Your local funeral chapels serving Mt. Angel since 1919 & Silverton since 1924. Always available at your time of need

Like the timber he cut for over 50 years, Tom Fennimore has been felled. His children and loved-ones were by his side throughout his last days and months. He was greatly loved and respected by many and his loss leaves a hole that only time can heal.

Thomas Alan Fennimore, 82, of Silverton, Oregon, passed away on June 11, 2023, after a tough battle with leukemia. He was born on May 12, 1941 to William and Mamie Helvey Fennimore in Silverton. He married Sylvia Charlotte Barth at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel, Oregon on Sept. 22, 1962. They were married for 50 years prior to her passing in 2013. Tom and Sylvia went on to have nine children: John (Emma) of Mount Angel; Keith (Carmen), Mark (Noemy), Lloyd and Sam of Silverton; Karl and Glenn of Stayton; Irene McKinney of Elgin; and Sarah of Portland.

Tom grew up in the Silverton hills and in 1959, at the age of 18, he began work in the logging industry as a choker setter.

Pat Buchheit

On Friday, July 14, 2023, surrounded by her family, Pat Buchheit of Mount Angel, Oregon, peacefully passed away. She was 89 years old.

He became a timber cutter later, a job he held for the next 50 years, retiring at the age of 70.

Tom loved his family, dogs, hunting, gardening, and being in the outdoors. He was a volunteer firefighter in Mount Angel for 13 years. His presence and demeanor were greatly respected by all who knew him.

Tom was predeceased by his wife, Sylvia; parents, William and Mamie Fennimore; his brothers, Tim, David, and William Jr. He is survived by his nine children; 23 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; his brother, Robert; and his sisters, LaVeta Kowash, Kathleen Robinson, and Colleen (Lex) Barth.

Graveside services were held at the Holy Rosary Cemetery, Scotts Mills, Oregon on June 16. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the Bristol Hospice Foundation for their care and thoughtfulness throughout this time.

March 14, 1935 – July 14, 2023

retiring in 1996. In retirement, she loved being at home, baking, gardening, daytime TV, and spending time with her family.

Pat was born to Luverne Anderson and Teresa Tritschler on March 14, 1934, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she spent her growing-up years through the age of nine. During World War II in 1943, her family had to move to Vancouver, Washington, in support of the war effort. Finally, they settled in Mount Angel, in 1946, opening the theater which she helped her family run. She went to high school and college in Mount Angel. She then finished up her teaching degree at Oregon College of Education in Monmouth.

Pat started teaching in the area, during which time she met John Buchheit, marrying him on July 9, 1961 in Hillsboro. They settled down and started raising their family in Mount Angel. Her teaching career spanned 40+ years, the last 39 years of which were spent teaching 5th grade at St. Mary’s Elementary School and Mt. Angel Middle School, finally

She is survived by daughter, Johna (Mark) Overfield of Woodburn; daughter, Patti Madderom of Mount Angel; son, Scott (Amy) Buchheit of Silverton; her grandchildren, Jami Madderom, Christopher Overfield, James Skay, Nicholle Zollman, Chase Zollman, Derek Buchheit, Teya Buchheit, Grant Buchheit, and Reegan Buchheit; great grandchildren, Garrett, Lila, and Sterling Zollman; sisters Aileen Vaughn and Jan Fessler; and her brother, Jim Anderson. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Al Anderson; and son-in-law, Rich Madderom.

A Rosary service was held July 19, 2023, followed by a funeral service on July 20, 2023 at St. Mary’s Church, also. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor to St. Mary’s Church, Traditions Hospice, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital are encouraged. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Mt. Angel.

Aba Gayle, 89, a resident of Silverton, Oregon for 20 years, passed away on June 29, 2023.

Aba was born Gayle Marguerite Wedseltoft to Povl and Helen Wedseltoft in San Mateo, California on Nov. 30, 1933. Her family moved to Wisconsin in 1947, and Aba graduated from Shorewood High School in 1951. She studied for two years at the University of Wisconsin majoring in home economics.

On June 12, 1954, she married Ralph Blount, and they moved back to Northern California where their three children were born and raised.

Aba was an amazing, dedicated mom providing a loving and nurturing environment for her children. She was highly involved in their school and outside activities, always the first parent to volunteer to be the cub scout den mother, campfire girl leader, or whatever else her kids were involved in. She was an enthusiastic participant in the many family excursions including trips to their cabin in the mountains along with water and snow skiing trips.

Jan. 20, 1943 – July 14, 2023

Susan Hannan Peterson passed peacefully on July 14, 2023. Sue was born to Frances and Clarence (Brownie) Brownell on Jan. 20, 1943 and grew up on the family farm in Silverton, Oregon. She attended Victor Point School, graduated from Silverton High School in 1961, and cherished life-long friendships with many of her classmates.

In 1962 she married Michael Hannan and moved to Tampa, Florida where he was stationed in the Air Force. While in Florida, they welcomed their first child, Mark. Following Michael’s military service, they moved back to Oregon, where they welcomed two more children, Beth and John. Mike and Sue were married for 30 years, raising their family in Silverton until his death in 1992.

Sue was very active in the community as a member of philanthropic organizations including Epsilon Sigma Alpha and Kiwanas. Sue worked for many years at the local Silverton photography studio purchasing it in 1980. She loved her work running Hannan Photography for eight years and continued to facilitate Silverton’s “Baby Contest” for many years after she sold the business to the Almquist family.

Sue began a home-based childcare business in the late ’80s, helping raise

A second marriage in 1970 added two stepsons to the household. Her sense of humor and contagious laugh helped her deal well with the challenge of having five teenagers simultaneously.

Tragedy struck in 1980 when Aba’s youngest daughter, Catherine, was murdered at age 19. Aba described Catherine as “my beautiful daughter who radiated love and joy.” There were several dark years of anguish, anger, obsession with revenge, and depression that followed. An epiphany led her to send a letter of forgiveness to the person responsible.

This act of forgiveness had a powerful healing effect on her. She learned that a previous promise that an execution would bring her closure was a myth. Aba was then motivated by her own experience to educate other people and spread the word about the power of forgiveness and what she thought was the immorality of the death penalty. She gained notice for these beliefs and gave lectures and interviews all over the United States, and the world including Italy, Switzerland, Scotland, France, and Taiwan.

many children until her retirement in 2008. Sue loved and was loved by the children and families she worked with.

In 2011, Sue was reunited with high school sweetheart, LeRoy Peterson. They were married in 2012 and spent the next 11 years enjoying friends and family, splitting their time between their homes in Silverton and Arizona.

Sue will be remembered by all for her passion for photography, love of all things Christmas, amazing mac and cheese, and an uncanny ability to remember the birthday of every person she ever met.

Sue is survived by her husband, LeRoy; her children and their spouses, Mark (Jennifer) Hannan, John (Toni) Hannan, and Beth (Todd) Irwin; ten grandchildren, Kyler, Cooper, Kellen, Chloe, Jack, Luke, and Grace Hannan and Katie, Hanna, and Sarah Irwin.

Sue loved life and will be greatly missed by many friends and family.

A memorial was held at First Christian Church on July 22, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Silverton High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.  Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Silverton.

An active community member in Silverton, Aba was instrumental in the Silverton Mosaic Society which worked with the city and community members to refurbish and renovate the Leo Martin Rumely III Memorial Fountain in Coolidge McClaine Park and add a mosaic art project to the fountain.

Aba cherished her family. She loved being the matriarch at the annual extended family Kitts-Blount-Scott Thanksgiving celebrations. Aba was an avid reader her entire life, super smart and always a wealth of knowledge. She is survived by four children, Lindsay Blount, Elizabeth (Joe) Blount, Aaron Orr, and Matthew (Kim) Orr; brother, Richard (Maureen) Wedseltoft; five grandchildren, Connor (Lindsay) Kitts, Catherine (Spencer) Reid, Cynthia Blount, Nancy (Jesus) Kitts, Jane (Walker) Kitts; and three great grandchildren, Merle, Lennox, and Julian.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Murder Victims’ Families for Human Rights (MVFHR).

Dec. 19, 1929 – July 13, 2023

James Heintz was born Dec. 19, 1929 to Margaret and Howard Heintz in Pendleton, Oregon. He was the fourth child of five. His mother, father and all his siblings preceded him in death: Howard, Donald, Margaret, and Eva Lou. Jim passed away July 13, 2023, in Mount Angel Oregon surrounded by his family.  At eight years-old, he started work delivering papers around Pendleton then worked in a grocery store and in high school, worked in the Pendleton Woolen Mills. He started working for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at the entry level. He was drafted into the U.S. Army and spent over two years on the front lines in the Korean Conflict. He served as an expert marksman and was honorably discharged, then went back to work for ODFW. He was convinced that he should go to college and did so on the G.I. Bill of Rights. He graduated from Oregon State College in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management.

While at college, he met Patricia Magill Gruver. They were married in August of 1958. They had five children, Grant, Jenifer, Mary, Alexander and Suzanne while living in La Grande, Oregon. Jim became a member of the La Grande Mavericks horse club. ODFW promoted him from the Ladd Marsh Management Area to the Wilamette Valley Wildlife Mangement Area as Head Manager.

His family moved to the Molalla area there he joined the Molalla Buckeroo as one of the directors. Serving as the ODFW Manager he oversaw the Willamette Valley from the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade Mountains and from South Portland to Corvallis Area.  He answered deer and elk damage complaints along with all other animals/birds that caused damage to strawberry fields, corn, berry fields and every other animal/bird who was causing trouble for farmers.

He belonged to the Kiwanis Club and was a lifelong member of the Salem Rod and Gun Club. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and served in any capacity he was needed. Because of his interpretation of the Bible, one of his pastors fondly called him “Rabbi Jim.”

Jim is survived by his children, Jenifer Zeek of Lebanon, Oregon; Mary Wynn of Molalla, Oregon; Alexander Heintz of Fairlie, New Zealand; and Suzanne DuMont of Powell Butte, Oregon. Son, Grant, preceded his father in death.

The family wishes to thank the Willamette Valley Hospice for their care and support these past few years. Contributions can be made to Willamette Valley Hospice or The Salvation Army. At a later date there will be a private memorial service. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel – Mount Angel.

Susan Hannan Peterson

James Heintz

Football memories

This is the 10th anniversary of my sports column in Our Town Well, actually, it’s the 11th, but I’m not counting the COVID year. With football season almost upon us I thought it was a good time to look back on those ten-plus years and note the top moments from our two teams, Silverton and Kennedy.

During that stretch both schools have won a state title (the Trojans in 2018, the Foxes in 2021). And both have produced so many memorable moments that it was a severe challenge to keep the list this short. One caveat: To make the list I had to SEE the game, which obviously leaves out even more moments. Here goes!

Silverton

2021 vs. Thurston, The Catch: The Foxes led Thurston 26-20 but faced a 4th-and-17 at the Colts’ 26 with 12 seconds left. The dilemma. Do you run the ball and perhaps give Thurston a play or 2? Do you have QB Jordan McCarty run around to exhaust the 12 ticks?

Nope, you have McCarty throw it to Vandon Fessler, who outfought DB Darien Witham for the ball at the 5 for his tenth catch of the day. Game, set and match. Moments later Fessler disappeared into the arms of his father, assistant coach Mike Fessler, which made for a memorable Our Town cover photo of the 5A title win.

2012 vs. West Albany, Buying In: The 2012 campaign was the breakthrough year for coach John Mannion. The Foxes won the Mid-Willamette Conference title and thrashed conference foe West Albany 35-6 in the 5A quarterfinals. As I worked my way through the McGinnis Field end zone mosh pit to get interviews I found junior Cort Martin. His comment: “I’m just glad we could get a win for the seniors in their final home game.” Others said the same. This showed the Mannion influence. He had buy-in from his athletes. And when you have that you can achieve great things.

2022 vs. Central, 6 TDs!: Running back Jackson

Pfeifer’s sophomore and junior campaigns ended early with foot injuries. For his senior year he was healthy and ready to dominate. In a 40-35 win at Central, Pfeifer rushed for 244 yards, intercepted a pass and scored all six Foxes TDs, breaking a record he shared after turning in five scores two weeks earlier at Dallas.

2017 vs. Lebanon, The Scramble: The Foxes have played some corkers against the Warriors, as the next three entries will show. In 2017, Silverton rallied to victory with the key play a 4th-and-27 scramble by QB Levi Nielsen. I was standing by the sticks when Nielsen took off running. My thought bubble went from “Oh, no, he’s past the line!” to “wait, he might make it!!” to “I think he DID make it!!!” The Foxes went on to score and won 31-30.

Top 10 moments from ten years on the beat

2018 vs. Lebanon, The Relief Pitcher: Nielsen went down with a knee injury in the third period and on came sophomore Aaron Rieskamp, who showed magnificent poise while leading the Foxes on a 65-yard drive to win the see-saw game, 37-36 on a TD pass to Grant Buchheit in the final minute.

2019 vs. Lebanon, The Drive: Another back and forth with the Warriors, who had the Foxes backed up at their own four late in the game. But Silverton, led by its tough offensive line, ground out a 96-yard drive to win 29-25.

Kennedy

2018 vs. Santiam, The Perfect Half: The Trojans, who had lost to the Wolverines 44-0 during the regular season, ran out to a 28-0 lead in the 2A title game, scoring TDs on their first four possessions. Emorej Lynk, who accounted for three first-half TDs, missed the second half with an injury, and the Trojans had to hold on for a 31-20 win.

2022 vs. Santiam Christian, The Flea-Flicker: The Trojans and SC were both 9-0 and battling for the Class 3A Special District II title. Kennedy led 17-0 at the half, but a furious Santiam Christian comeback left the visitors on top 20-17 with 1:12 left. But veteran Trojans coach Joe Panuke had one arrow left in his quiver. With 57 seconds left he sent in a trick play. QB Elijah Traeger handed off to Charlie Beyer for what looked like a sweep to the right. But Charlie Beyer handed it to wide receiver Ethan Kleinschmit coming back the other

way. Kleinschmit uncorked a perfect pass to wide-open Luke Beyer down the left sideline for a 63-yard TD that clinched a 24-20 victory.

2021 vs. Monroe, The Improvement Boys: Panuke’s Kennedy teams always are better later in the season than they are at the beginning. That’s the sign of a great coach/program. The 2021 “spring” season was a nightmare for football coaches coping with COVID. How do you practice and make things normal? Kennedy opened with a 45-8 loss at Santiam Christian in a game in which JFK lost QB/DB Dylan Kleinschmit to a shoulder injury. But then that Kennedy grit kicked in. The Trojans, with QB Riley Cantu at the controls, reeled off 4 wins in a row and then traveled to undefeated Monroe for a hastily arranged “showcase week” game. Kennedy took Monroe apart, scoring four TDs in the second quarter and pulling away to a 47-14 victory.

2012 vs. Central Linn, The Drive: This Class 2A quarterfinal in Mount Angel was a total slobberknocker. It rained throughout. The two teams combined for maybe five passing attempts. Central Linn led 6-0 for most of the game. Early in the fourth quarter the Trojans started a drive. And pounded the rock inside the 10 before failing on four tries at the end zone. Ailing Trojans coach Randy Traeger made the long walk to the end zone to talk to his team. He told them how proud he was and how hard they had worked and how much could be learned from such a day.

Foxes WR Vandon Fessler hugs his father, assistant coach Mike Fessler, after Vandon’s pass reception clinched a 26-20 Silverton win vs. Thurston in the 2021 Class 5A state title game in Hillsboro. JAMES DAY

Champs again!

Silverton JBO baseball squad wins state crown

By James Day

A team of Silverton middle-schoolers has come home with a state baseball title. Silverton’s JBO Senior Federal team outlasted Beaverton 11-9 in the July 23 title game at Central High in Independence.

It was the third meeting of the tournament between Silverton and Beaverton. Silverton won the first contest 12-10 on Friday, July 21, before falling 7-6 to the Beaverton squad on Sunday, a result that set up the winner-takeall championship matchup in which Silverton rallied from a 5-0 deficit.

“This team showed so much toughness and grit, no matter what happened they never gave up and continued to fight,” said head coach Blinn Carstensen.

“Our pitching and hitting depth made a difference throughout the season and was especially important in the state tournament. Whether at the plate or in the field we had key contributions from all 11 of our players. I’m excited to watch these young men as they continue to grow both on and off the field.”

Players taking part for Silverton included Trey Carstensen, Jai Thao, Luke Horner, Kane Mack, James Collier, Caden Druliner, Wyatt Hurl, North Sheldon, Henry Briggs, Colson Swartz and  Noah Blodgett. In addition to Blinn Carstensen the team was coached by John Horner, Nick Foreman and Ty Hurl

Trey Cartensen of Silverton took home the individual sportsmanship award for the tournament.

This is the second state JBO title for Silverton in four years. In 2019, the program’s Junior American squad captured a state title. Players participating on both title teams include Henry Briggs, Wyatt Hurl, Kane Mack, Luke Horner, Trey Carstensen and James Collier. Ty Hurl and Blinn Carstensen coached both squads.

Officials needed: The Oregon Athletic Officials Association and the Oregon School Activities Association are recruiting officials for the high school fall sports season. There is an immediate need for officials in football, volleyball and soccer.

Becoming a high school official has several benefits, including staying involved in athletics, maintaining good physical condition and earning money, according to OAOA Executive Director Jack Folliard.

“Oregon has an urgent need for officials in all sports,” Folliard said.  “Officials provide valuable service to high schools and students, make a positive impact in the community and build relationships.”  Those interested should visit  www. newofficials.org

Daddys Dash: Mount Angel 16-yearold AJ Aker captured first place in the 10-kilometer Daddys Dash race held Saturday, June 17 in Mount Angel. Aker ran the 6.2 miles in 37:53.2, nearly three minutes ahead of runner-up Sean Aker, who ran 40:17.5. Sophia Patterson of Salem ran 51:49.1 to finish ninth overall and take top honors for women runners.

Scotts Mills runner Johnathan Kintz, 17, captured the 5K event in 18:13.5, nearly 2.5 minutes ahead of runner-up Reese O’Connell, 40, of Salem, who ran 20:44.0. Kristin Barber, 50, of Keizer, ran 24:12.7 to finish seventh and was the top woman finisher.

Nearly 120 individuals participated in the races.

Homer’s Classic: This year’s races, including a 2-mile run-walk and an 8K covered bridge run, get rolling at 9 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 6, starting from Silverton High on Pine Street. Go to  https:// runsignup.com/Race/OR/Silverton/ HomerClassic to register. Please note that because of construction on James Street, the 2-mile run-walk will be conducted entirely on campus, including a 0.86-mile gravel jogging path that is not stroller friendly. The 8K runners will run for 200 yards on Highway 214, but cones and course monitors will be in place to keep the runners safe.

Sponsored by the Silverton Runners Club, proceeds benefit cross country and track and field programs in Mount Angel and Silverton.

I recently turned 70 and got the best birthday present ever – a new lease on life. What I had self-diagnosed as industrialstrength heartburn turned out to be something else entirely. Only the persistence of my doctor led to the correct diagnosis. While I noticed the heartburn came and went, depending on whether I was walking uphill, she saw the whole picture and signed me up for a stress test, which uses a treadmill to gauge when the “heartburn” occurred and take a high-tech photo of what was happening with my heart.

In doing that, she probably saved my life. What a cardiologist initially found in the photo was a blockage in one of the main arteries leading to my heart. For obvious reasons, when blocked, that artery is called “the widow maker.”

Another cardiologist would follow up by inserting a tiny camera into an artery in my left wrist and maneuver it to my heart looking for other blockages. If the blockages were minor he could insert tiny expandable metal tubes called stents that

would allow more blood flow and avoid the need for further surgery.

Instead, he found four blockages, ranging from 80% to 95%.

I can’t print in a family newspaper what I thought when he told me that. You fill in the blanks.

I was teetering on the verge of a majorleague heart attack, possibly in the next few weeks or months.

When they talked with me, the first question the doctors had asked wasn’t what I ate or how much I exercised. It was whether my family had a history of heart problems. Both my dad and my brother died of heart problems in their early to mid70s. My genes were conspiring against me.

The doctors all agreed that I needed bypass surgery – technically called a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft – which is performed on about 400,000 Americans each year, according to the National Institutes of Health.

They called in the heavy-hitters, kind of a surgical Top Gun team that would saw my breastbone open, stop my heart, “harvest” a vein from my left leg and stitch it into place as four bypasses around the blockages. Then they would restart my heart and wire my breastbone back together.

Easy-peasy.

I wasn’t keeping track, but my wife tells me the surgery took nine hours.

The first thing I saw when I woke up were fairies. They were everywhere. My wife, nurses, aides, doctors – all of them were tracking every beat of my newly rebuilt arteries and heart.

Recovery was slow at first, but after a few days I was getting up for walks around the hospital floor. Using a walker and trailing a rack of intravenous solutions and drugs,

I would shuffle down the hallway. Every day the nurse or an aide nudged me to go farther. By the time I was sent home five days after the surgery, I was lapping the entire floor.

When my wife and I got home, more fairies had been at work – the lawn was mowed, the house was cleaned, and a huge “Welcome Home” banner was strung across the front porch. I cannot say how good that made an old guy feel.

Recovery continues, and I’m now doing well enough to work from home part-time. Every day I walk around the house or head outside for a short walk around the yard, or across the street to the cemetery where my brother is buried, a stark reminder of what might have been.

At the ripe old age of 70, I consider myself lucky. Like everyone else, I don’t know how long I’ll be riding planet Earth during its annual circumnavigations of the sun, but I’ve pledged to savor every day with a heart full of thanks.

Carl Sampson is a writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.

GENERAL

LOOKING FOR SILVERTON

HIGH 1971 CLASSMATE I’m looking for John Withers from the Scotts Mills area, going to SUHS from 1968 to 1970.

I am Catherine Wyatt from Silverton. I was a grade behind John. We dated my freshman year. I go by ‘Raven Wyatt’ on Facebook. If anyone knows his whereabouts, please contact me on Facebook.

FIRE WOOD You Cut Seasoned

Doug Fir – Alder, by the cord: Aug-Sept $150.00, Oct-Nov $175.00. Delivery Available, Cut & Split $210.00. Hog Fuel by the Yard. By Appointment: 503-859-3558.

HELP WANTED

PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT

Unger Funeral Chapel, 229 Mill Street Silverton, OR 97381. We are looking for a part-time Office Assistant. We are a family-owned funeral home

in Silverton and Mt. Angel. This position represents the company with the public by telephone and in person and must be courteous and professional. You must be reliable, a team player, be able to multi-task and have knowledge with Microsoft Word and be able to pay attention to detail. Schedule would be Monday, Thursday and Saturday working 20 hours a week. Must be able to lift 75 lbs. If you think you would be a perfect fit, please e-mail your resume to info@ungerfuneralchapel.com

DIVERSIFIED FARM seeking dependable, motivated individual for general farm work, including equipment operation, truck driving, maintenance, etc. Mechanics a plus. Full time. Wage DOE. Silverton/ Mt. Angel area. Email inquire@ obersinnernursery.com

ASSISTANT NURSERY MANAGER wanted for wholesale ornamental nursery. Dependable, motivated individual willing to learn all aspects of our operation. On the job training. Nursery or farm experience a

Place your ad in Marketplace 503-845-9499

plus. Wage DOE. Silverton/Mt. Angel area. Email inquire@ obersinnernursery.com

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

GOT STUFF U WANT GONE?

From yard debris to scrap metalFrom garage sale leftovers to rental clear outs. We repurpose, recycle, reuse or donate what we can. Call and find out what we can do for you. $20 minimum.

Keith 503-502-3462

JESSE’S LAWN SERVICE & HANDYMAN Pruning, edging, trimming, blackberry cleaning, gutter cleaning, arborvitae, moss treatment, yard clean-up, stump grinding, powerwashing, haulaway. 503-871-7869

Job Announcement for the position of FIREFIGHTER/EMT

Beginning Salary $50,752/year ($4,229/ month). Great Benefits. Fast Growing Community. Unparalleled Service.

For full description, details related to the selection process and to apply, visit: www.silvertonfire.com or call 503-873-5328

PENDING – #T2787

GREAT PRIVATE LOCATION $424,800

Great private location on an oversized lot, private lane, 0.26 acre lot, wonderfully landscaped with detached shop for all your hobbies, single level home, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, ready for your modern updates. Newer roof and HVAC system with AC. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. (WVMLS#806587)

PENDING – #T2788

HEART OF ABIQUA HEIGHTS $835,000 In the heart of Abiqua Heights, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, plus office. Kitchen and family room look out onto private backyard that is ready for your entertaining. Granite countertops, teak wood floors that have been newly refinished, formal dining with wet bar/coffee bar. Home is wired with speaker system and home security. Professionally landscaped with underground sprinkler system. Oversized garage w/ RV/boat space, plus a work room in the garage. Room for all your toys! Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext (WVMLS#806991)

#T2761 GREAT OPPORTUNITY 1.66 Acres. Salem. Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $199,000

(WVMLS#800102)

#T2771 HOME WITH SHOP & BARN 4 BR, 2.5 BA 2320 sqft. 1.4 Acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $570,000 (WVMLS#802934)

SOLD! – #T2782 SILVER-

TON ACREAGE ESTATE

4 BR, 2.5 BA 3837 sqft 2.08 Acres Call Michael at ext. 314 $1,349,000 (WVMLS#805574)

#T2775 SO MUCH OPPORTUNITY 3 BR, 2 BA 2190 sqft 3.36 Acres. Dallas. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $575,000 (WVMLS#803517)

#T2780 RURAL SETTING 3 BR, 2 BA 2044 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $770,000 (WVMLS#805144)

#T2786 – ACREAGE PROPERTY 4 BR, 2.5 BA

3304 sqft 7.56 Acres. Sublimity. Call Michael at ext. 314 $419,900 (WVMLS#806853)

#T2781 RURAL SETTING $760,000

Wonderful park-like setting off Woodland Dr, this rural setting is impeccably maintained, 30 X 40 feet shop, 2 bays with a storage loft, plus 8 x 12 garden shed, firepit, paved driveway, metal roof, leaf guard gutters, newer windows, flooring and paint inside and out. This home is move in ready in a highly desired area. Hooked up to city water, with a previous well still on the property. Ready for the new owner to move right in! Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322

(WVMLS# 805144)

#T2784 WONDERFUL 1920 CHARACTER $624,800 All new modern amenities, this home was rebuilt to perfection, keeping original bones of the home and character, all new electrical, plumbing, insulation, windows, new kitchen, bathrooms. Granite countertops w/ custom cabinets, kitchen opens up to a new covered back porch to enjoy your yard that has been new landscaping + sprinkler systems. New HVAC system + AC. Partially fenced back yard with large shop, 24 by 24 ft. Move in ready, close to downtown. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. (WVMLS#805924)

#T2771 HOME WITH SHOP & BARN 4 BR, 2.5 BA 2320 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314 $570,000 (WVMLS#802934)

#T2772 SINGLE LEVEL HOME 3 BR, 2 BA 1799 sqft Call Chuck at ext. 325 $514,900 (WVMLS#803171)

#T2774 SILVER CREEK FRONTAGE 1 BR, 1 BA

672 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $399,900 (WVMLS#803547)

#T2784 WONDERFUL 1920 CHARACTER 3 BR, 2 BA 1484 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $624,800 (WVMLS#805924)

#T2788 HEART OF ABIQUA HEIGHTS

SILVERTON COUNTRY/ACREAGE

3 BR, 2.5 BA 2926 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $835,000 (WVMLS#806991)

PENDING – #T2783 GREAT STARTER HOME

3 BR, 2.5 BA 2926 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314, Jason at ext. 302 $359,000 (WVMLS#805664)

MOUNT ANGEL

PENDING – #T2787 GREAT PRIVATE LOCATION

3 BR, 2 BA 1260 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $424,800

BARELAND/LOTS

#T2761 GREAT OPPORTUNITY 1.66 Acres. Salem. Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $199,000 (WVMLS#800102)

SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

#T2775 SO MUCH OPPORTUNITY 3 BR, 2 BA 2190 sqft 3.36 Acres. Dallas. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $560,000 (WVMLS#803517)

#T2786 – ACREAGE PROPERTY 4 BR, 2.5 BA 3304 sqft

7.56 Acres. Sublimity. Call Michael at ext. 314 $419,900

Chuck White Broker 873-3545 ext. 325

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

Kirsten Barnes Broker 873-3545 ext. 326

Whitney Ulven Broker, GRI 503-873-3545 ext. 320

Mike Ulven Broker 503-873-3545 ext. 312 WWW.SILVERTONREALTY.COM

Meredith Wertz Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 324

Ryan Wertz Principal Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 322

Sarah Sanders Property Manager 873-3545 ext. 311

Micha Christman Office Manager 873-1425

Becky Craig Principal Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 313

Michael Schmidt Principal Broker GRI 873-3545 ext. 314

Tayler Whitaker Secretary 873-3545 ext. 300

Jason Marshall Broker 873-3545 ext 302