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Helping Hands
Sharing a vision SACA holds open house to gain support for new facility
By Melissa Wagoner
During the 74 years Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA) has been supplying food and other services to low income families, the number of individuals seeking assistance has continued to rise. The square footage of its headquarters has not. At least, not since the organization moved from the basement of the Eugene Field Elementary School to the basement of the Silverton Community Center.
“We’ve been in that basement for over 20 years,” executive director Sarah DeSantis said. She added that, while members of SACA’s board of directors have been aware of the need for a new facility for at least as long as DeSantis has been associated with the organization, making it happen has not been easy.
“[I]t was a daunting project,” DeSantis said, describing the initial steps she and the board took to create a clear vision statement, establish community partnerships and maintain a board that is representative of the community at large 17 years ago.
“Then we had to decide, are we looking for a facility just for SACA or to include other community programs,” DeSantis recalled. “Because the building at the time had WIC, the YMCA and Silverton Together.”
Ultimately the board decided to look for a building that would include a myriad of services compatible with SACA’s own.
“I think we have a prime opportunity to do something big,” DeSantis said, explaining that, because SACA’s service area is both large and rural, it is helpful to keep amenities as centralized as possible.
But finding a building large enough to house multiple providers and close enough to town to be available for those lacking transportation was a challenge.
“We started looking at buildings in 2018,” DeSantis recalled.
But without confirmed funding the search wasn’t fruitful.
Then in 2019 that obstacle was removed.
“We received an incredible gift of seed money that enabled us to move forward if we found the right property,” DeSantis said. And it allowed them to hire a consultant who would conduct a feasibility study.
Then, only a few months later, the COVID-19 pandemic shut everything down.
“We had to focus on feeding our community and keeping them in their homes,” DeSantis said. “And it wasn’t just COVID.”
Wildfires, an ice storm and a heat dome all brought an influx of people requiring assistance, and SACA, still operating
under pandemic health protocols in a tiny space with limited ventilation, was forced to move outdoors.
“We were outside for two and a half years,” DeSantis said, recalling the frustration she and her team felt. “We were like, we have to get out of here!”
It was a sentiment that was echoed a year later when, upon the completion of the feasibility study, the consultant presented some exceptionally good news.
“The feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” DeSantis said. “People understood SACA needed to be in a better facility.” They just had to find one.
As luck would have it, that didn’t take long.
“The end of 2022… we heard perhaps the owner of Ratchet
A design rendering of an educational and meeting area for the new SACA facility, with the pantry in the background.
COURTESY SARAH DESANTIS
Brewery was thinking of selling,” DeSantis said.
Initially daunted by the size (the building is a whopping 5,500 square feet), the location (it’s further out of town than they had initially hoped) and their lack of funding, the board started to turn it down. Then they looked again.
“It’s kind of a blank canvas,” DeSantis pointed out. “It’s got sidewalks, it’s close to the housing of many of the people we serve, and we can create a more welcoming and accessible space, bring all these partners together and be open to different possibilities.”
In short, it felt like the answer to the problem. All they needed was financing.
“We had seed money, but we hadn’t started fundraising,” DeSantis said. “Then, over a short time, we had some donors step up and say, we want to make this happen.”
And so, in March 2023, SACA bought the building outright and the real work began.
“We reached out to community members to fundraise in March and April, and we started hiring fundraising staff,” DeSantis said.
That step was necessary because while the building itself was paid for, the renovations and equipment that would need to be purchased were not.
“That was the quiet phase,” DeSantis said. She described the initial fundraising efforts as largely the work of identifying major donors and applying for grants while the architectural plans were approved and the initial infrastructure changes were made.
“Now we’re ready to move into the public phase and show it to the community.”
While 82 percent of the remodel is both funded and complete, construction has been on hold while the final $850,000 is raised.
“It’s great to bring people in now,” DeSantis said. “Now that we’re where we are, with no debt.”
And with concrete plans they can present to the community that has supported them for more than seven decades.
“We’re asking people to give above and beyond what they would normally give,” DeSantis said. “What we’re talking about is a once in a lifetime gift, a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Once in a Lifetime Opportunity is also the name of the fundraising event the organization will be holding on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
“It’s a community-wide event, an invitation for people to learn about the project and it’s a kick-off to the campaign,” DeSantis said.
“Because a lot of people think we’re already here and a lot of people don’t know the extent of the project. We want to be able to share the timeline and the story.”
And to give the community a preview of what the future of SACA will look like, a future with more accessibility, more partnership and more opportunities than ever before.
Features of new SACA facility
• A larger parking lot offering more privacy, a covered entryway and more accessibility for walkers and cyclists
• Free community laundry
• A private client meeting room
• Parent education classes with childcare
• A larger, more accessible food pantry designed with trauma-informed care in mind
• Both a dairy and a freezer aisle
• A designated food preparation area
• A community donation area
• 1,500 square feet of mezzanine storage and space for emergency services
• Private rental space, providing monthly income
• Office space, a breakroom and a separate entrance for employees and volunteers
• Access to WIC, the Silverton Coffee Club and other community partners with a private wing and separate entrance
For more information plan to attend the “Once in a Lifetime Opportunity” event on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m. RSVP or donate at www. silvertonareacommunityaid.org.
A rendering of a larger commons area.
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Back on the ballot
Brakeman, Axness seek SM mayor’s seat
By Stephen Floyd
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Pending
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$539,900 Silverton. Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#815924
to change
Voters in Scotts Mills will notice two familiar names on the Nov. 5 ballot, with Mayor Paul Brakeman and challenger Jason Axness again vying for the office of mayor.
The two squared off in 2022, with Brakeman seeking a fourth term and Axness making his first run for elected office. Brakeman won that year with 77.2% of the vote.
Our Town approached each candidate to learn what was motivating them to again seek public office and what their vision is for the community.
Paul Brakeman
Brakeman was first elected in 2016 and said he wasn’t sure if he wanted to seek a fifth term, but added the city is currently working to complete major infrastructure projects.
These include replacing or repairing damaged water lines and related upgrades to the city’s water system. Brakeman said officials are also working to complete an updated infrastructure master plan.
The city is also working with Marion County to replace Butte Creek Bridge, with construction expected to begin in 2026.
Brakeman said, if re-elected, he would work to make sure the master plan is completed and that bridge replacement goes smoothly. He said he would also prioritize improvements to roads and sidewalks, including seeking transportation safety grants for rural communities.
Brakeman said, having been in the job for eight years, he feels comfortable performing the duties of mayor and that the council and voters appear to be comfortable with him as well.
He said the city council, rather than the mayor, is the ultimate decision maker. He said his role has been to lead meetings and help make sure councilors have the information they need.
Brakeman said his goal is to seek practical solutions and not to “promote anything radical for the town,” but rather to satisfy the needs and concerns of the community.
When asked about his opponent, Brakeman said Axness is “a good guy” and, if elected, would “do a fine job.”
Jason Axness
Axness moved with his family to Scotts Mills in 2020 and said he has enjoyed becoming a part of the community.
Axness said he has become a regular attendee at the council’s monthly meetings, in addition to joining the Grange and participating in other community events.
He said he was running for mayor again to “make sure that Scotts Mills isn’t just another town” but a “community that everyone can be part of.”
If elected, Axness said he would foster strong community bonds in order to “make Scotts Mills a more vibrant place to live.” He said he would also work with the council to improve infrastructure, promote sustainability and green spaces, and enhance communication and transparency from city hall.
Axness said an effective mayor is someone who can inspire a community through clear communication, active listening and direct engagement. He said they should be “adept at identifying problems, analyzing potential solutions, and implementing effective strategies” to improve the city.
Axness said he wants to help preserve Scotts Mills’ identity as a safe and quiet community, as well as entertain new ideas to help the city grow into a community residents feel proud of.
When asked about his opponent, Axness said he appreciates the work Brakeman has done over the years in a job that is often “thankless” and filled with many challenges and long hours.
Paul Brakeman SUBMITTED PHOTO
Jason Axness SUBMITTED PHOTO
Election 2024 Dow challenges Lewis in Oregon House District 18
By James Day
Republican Rep. Rick Lewis is seeking a fourth two-year term as the Oregon House representative in District 18, which covers Silverton, Mount Angel and Scotts Mills.
Democrat Karyssa Dow, a Silverton salon owner and stylist is challenging Lewis, the former Silverton police chief, mayor and city manager.
Our Town was on hand when Dow took part in an election forum on Sept. 22 at the Silverton Grange. Lewis, who was not present at the forum, participated in an email exchange with the newspaper.
Both candidates expressed strong interest in addressing housing issues.
Lewis noted that he has spent the past four legislative sessions trying to get an affordable housing bill passed that would help small towns such as Silverton but said he has been stymied by the Democratic majority in the House.
“The bill would allow cities to waive system development charges to a developer in exchange for an agreement with the state to keep rent in the multifamily development at or below 30% of local median income for a specified period of time (30 years in the last iteration),” he said.
“The city would then be reimbursed by the state from a fund created by the bill for 100% of their SDCs which are needed
One contest, one vacancy for conservation district
By Stephen Floyd
The Marion Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) has two local challengers for an at-large position, while a seat representing Mount Angel and parts of Silverton saw no candidates file for the Nov. 5 election.
When ballots are mailed Oct. 16, At Large Position 1 will feature incumbent Director Peggy Hart and challenger Tony Shepherd, both of Silverton.
Zone 2, representing Mount Angel and Northeast Silverton, saw no candidates file by the Aug. 27 deadline. This means the position could possibly go to a write-in candidate, or if no candidate wins, could be filled by the district’s board of directors.
Hart is currently a substitute teacher at Woodburn High School and has a background in agriculture including
Dan Wilgus Owner
working in small nurseries, and with soil mapping. Her education includes a bachelors in politics from UCSC, and a masters in soil science and rural ag development.
Shepherd is a semi-retired crop advisor and pesticide consultant with a background working for Maui Pineapple Co., United Agri Products, and Acadian Plant Health. His education includes separate bachelors degrees in horticulture and business from the University of Hawaii.
He is currently a member of the Oregon Processed Vegetable Commission.
The Marion SWCD works with businesses and land owners, both in the private and public sectors, to conserve natural resources throughout Marion County. This includes public outreach and education, conservation projects and policy advocacy.
to maintain the system. In the end, the builder can build cheaper, the renter pays less for housing and the city comes out with their needed SDCs.”
Lewis added that “over time, I have watched most of the housing funding from the Legislature go to the [Portland] metro area and my bill wouldn’t benefit anyone but rural communities. Silverton could greatly benefit from the bill.”
Dow served on the affordable housing task force which helped the Silverton City Council put together a plan for an affordable housing complex on land the city owns near the skatepark and the Silverton Senior Center. The council has picked a developer for the project and is working on a development agreement with Hacienda Community Development Corporation.
Dow said she wants “to expand up rather than out by expanding the urban growth boundary. Don’t clear farm land for housing… that will affect us for generations and don’t expand the UGB until everything inside has been used.”
Dow also noted that it is more expensive to build outside the UGB because of infrastructure costs.
Lewis said he will continue to work on legislative fixes for Measure 110, the drug decriminalization issue that proved flawed after being approved by the voters in 2020.
Mount
Lewis ultimately supported the legislative change, House Bill 4002, but said “it is only a start as we try to climb our way out of the hole that Measure 110 put us in.”
Dow said that other key issues she hopes to address if elected include better funding for schools and limiting the state tax “kicker” rebate to households earning less than $250,000. She also said she “will listen to experts on climate change. I’m not a scientist.”
Lewis is the strong favorite in the race. He earned more than 71% of the vote in the 2022 election. Dow noted the challenge, saying that one of the reasons she entered the race is her view that legislators such as Lewis should not run opposed.
Both candidates expressed concerns about the ability of the two parties to work together to solve Oregon’s problems.
“It’s important for people to start working together again,” Dow said. “That’s what voters want.”
Lewis agreed.
“It is my belief that we need balance in the Legislature between the two major parties and that one party rule is not good for the citizens we serve,” he said.
Democrats currently hold a 35-25 edge in the House as well as a 17-12 advantage in the Senate, with one independent.
Angel mayor, council races unopposed
Mount Angel City Councilor Joe Pfau will likely be the next mayor as all open seats for the Nov. 5 election are uncontested, including three spots on the City Council.
Pfau was the only candidate for mayor as of the Aug. 27 filing deadline. Incumbent Mayor Pete Wall declared in January he would not seek re-election.
Pfau has been on the council since January of 2023. Pfau has said he wants to serve as mayor to help the city continue pursuing projects he has been a part of on the council, including infrastructure development and strengthened budgeting practices.
Running for open council seats are incumbent councilors David Hoffer and Shelley Otte, and city budget committee
member Jack Belleque.
Hoffer is a contractor and has owned David Hoffer Construction since 2008. He is seeking his third term on the council, and has prior public service experience on the Mount Angel Planning Commission and the Infrastructure Finance Committee.
Otte is an instructional assistant at Gervais Elementary School. She is seeking a second term on the council. Belleque is a retired administrative services manager formerly with Salem Electric. He has previously served on the Mount Angel Budget Committee as well as the Gervais School District Board and the Willamette Education Service District Budget Committee.
– Stephen Floyd
Fruitful history
By Melissa Wagoner
When Ralph and Mary Geer left their Illinois home to settle in Oregon in 1847, they brought with them their four children, a bushel of apple seeds, a half bushel of pear seeds and a dream to start the first fruit nursery in the state.
“Through good fortune, he met Henderson Luelling on the trail,” Jim Toler, a Geer family descendant, said, recalling the serendipity that brought the two nurserymen together – one bearing seeds, the other over 500 young trees.
“Geer struck a bargain with Luelling such that he would supply the rootstock for Luelling’s nursery in exchange for grafting buds for his,” Toler said.
And so, Oregon’s nursery industry began with Luelling establishing his orchard in the area that is now Milwaukie and Geer planting his seeds, initially on the property of his cousin, Ralph Waldo, and later, on the site just outside of Silverton where the GeerCrest Farm stands today.
“The 1851 surveyor’s notes reflect that he had approximately 45,000 trees growing at that time,” Toler said. And he was doing a booming business. “The gold rush in California created markets for both fruit and fruit trees, enabling the Geers to build one of the first frame constructed homes in the area,” Toler said.
But at some point during the past 173 years the focus of the farm shifted.
“All of the farmers had to change with the times,” Toler pointed out.
And those times are changing yet again. GeerCrest Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the current owners, Jim and his wife, Erika, have begun reintroducing some of the original apple and pear trees.
“I’d like to see a well-developed, mature orchard out here,” Toler explained. “I’d like to see people come and taste these old varieties.”
Researching heritage varieties like Ashmead’s Kernel – Toler’s current favorite – he began planting one row each year, beginning in 2015.
The orchard now filled with 60 different varieties of apples and pears. Toler is looking forward to the days when his trees begin to produce fruit in earnest.
Community Cider Press & Pop-Up Market
GeerCrest Farm
12390 Sunnyview Road NE Saturday, Oct. 19, 12 to 4 p.m. Admission free; donations accepted. Bring your own apples and containers for cider. Some apples and containers available for purchase.
Fall produce available courtesy of Silverton Food Co-op.
Hot apple cider by the wood stove.
Vendors and music on the porch.
In the meantime, GeerCrest Farm is partnering with the Silverton Food Co-op to host the second annual Community Cider Press and Pop-Up Market as a way of sharing both GeerCrest’s history and the Pioneer Memorial Orchard.
“We’ll have apples from the orchard and are also soliciting apples,” co-op board treasurer Beth Myers-Shenai said. The event which includes both the making and distribution of fresh-pressed cider.
“But along with that activity we’ll have a pop-up market as well, and vendors and music on the porch.”
Taking place on Saturday, Oct. 19, the event is family-friendly and admissionfree – though donations are gladly accepted and will be used to support both the co-op and the farm.
“It’s the best, most delicious fun,” fellow board member Sherry Smith said.
Jim Toler, owner of GeerCrest Farm, beside one of the original fruit trees planted on the farm by Ralph Geer. MELISSA WAGONER
School Spotlight
Speech & debate
SHS students process, persuade, inspire
By Melissa Wagoner
The primary question Silverton High School Speech and Debate advisor Katie Kantrowitz hears from people looking to learn more about the activity is – what is Speech and Debate? Is it a lot of arguing?
The answer, she said with a chuckle, is “No.” Despite what many people think, argument seldom plays a part in competitive Speech and Debate.
There are 13 assorted styles of speech – everything from persuasive speech to dramatic readings – and five styles of debate (think mock-Congress) that competitors can choose from.
“In structure, it’s a lot like a swim team or a track team,” she explained. “[Y]ou’ve got debaters, [interpreters], platform speakers, and limited prep specialists. They all compete in their own events throughout the day, and then their individual results contribute to the team results.”
In other words, a Speech and Debate tournament is a complex, all-day affair with students competing, first in heats, then in semi-finals and then a final round. And Kantrowitz – though relatively new to the activity – loves it all.
“[M]y school didn’t have it, I had never even heard of it until college,” she admitted. Then she was placed with former SHS Speech and Debate coach Matt Ogle during her English Language Arts student teaching.
“It took me about two weeks of observing Matt teach the class before I thought, oh yeah, this is absolutely something I would have loved as a student,” Kantrowitz recalled. “It aligns with so many things that I loved – writing and research and literature and performance and competition.
“I started judging at tournaments and helping out with the team, and it was actually Matt’s position that came open in 2012. I stumbled my way into the job and haven’t looked back. It definitely felt like fate.”
Currently coaching a team of 25 students, with another 15 enrolled in her in-school class, Kantrowitz sees the art of Speech and Debate as more than just a way to compete against other students – though that is an option on both the local,
state and national levels – she sees it as a way to learn the all-important art of communication.
“They learn how to express themselves precisely and really listen for what other people are saying,” she said. “They learn to break down rhetoric and use their words for change; they learn that there is power in literature and in research and in the congressional process!”
And it has the benefit of teaching sportsmanship as well, including accepting feedback, winning and losing gracefully and being a part of a team – something Speech and Debate team member, Molly Pattison, sees as the best part.
“Speech and Debate is a very special class, because it’s more than just a class,” Molly said. “We have competitions, practices, and activities together that create a very strong community. Ms. K is an amazing teacher and a great person to have in your corner.The two years I spent in the class and the one I was a team captain have been an ... exciting and character-building experience…”
Similarly, Molly’s mother, Kate Pattison, has been impressed by the way the Speech and Debate program brings together students of different races, ethnicities, socioeconomic statuses, abilities and genders.
“And the students [are] brilliant,” she said, recalling her involvement as a judge in last year’s SHS-hosted competition.
“Experienced students performed world class dramatic speeches and novice-level students were cheered on by their peers as they performed their first competition improvisation or poetry reading. It’s an incredible program for our community.”
But few community members know the activity exists, despite the 13 students who represented SHS at state last year.
“[I]t’s one of those kind of hidden gems at the high school,” Kantrowitz said, “like so many clubs and activities, the community doesn’t always seem to know a lot about it unless their own students are involved. Learning about what we do, supporting the kids when they put themselves out there – those things seem small, but they make a huge difference in helping the students feel seen.”
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Kathleen Marie McCann
Feb. 27, 1952 – Aug. 23, 2024
Kathleen Marie McCann passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by loved ones, on Aug. 23, 2024.
Kathleen was born on Feb. 27, 1952, in New York City, the third of six children and the beloved, fearless and spirited daughter of Joseph and Rosemary McCann. Her love of nature developed in childhood from the woods, fields and creeks she explored near her home in Chevy Chase, Maryland. She spent the last years of her childhood in suburban Philadelphia, the final stop on her formation as a fast-talking, fast-walking northeasterner, with a big laugh and a beautiful smile.
In 1975, the year after graduating from Manhattanville College, she was accepted to serve in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Portland, Oregon. She raised her four children there until 1990, when she moved with her family to Silverton, Oregon. She loved living on “Danger Hill” for the more than 30 years that followed, so much so that she convinced two of her best friends to move to either side of her.
In the mid-’90s, she received her master’s degree in pastoral studies from Seattle University, a natural course of study for someone who had been ministering her whole life – directing food bank operations, as community connector for Silverton Together, and later as a social worker, hospital chaplain and finally, as board member at Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA). She was a healing and stoic presence to people during life’s most trying times.
One of Kathleen’s proudest achievements was single-handedly putting her four children through college. When her youngest daughter graduated in 2010, Kathleen’s friend John, with whom she’d worked in the 1990s at SACA, wrote her a card: “You did it, kid.” It’s been taped to her bedroom mirror ever since.
Kathleen was a fanatical athlete. She loved running, biking, yoga and swimming, planning her days and weeks around her non-stop exercise routine. She never suffered through a workout – it was her delight, something that made her whole. She loved when the roof was taken off the pool downtown and she could do her laps with that elusive Oregon sun sometimes shining from above. Her running route took her past cornfields, covered bridges and Silver Creek. She biked all over the Willamette Valley and beyond with her husband, sister, and her many cyclist friends, passing the valley’s flower fields, vineyards and hazelnut farms.
Kathleen was also the life of the party – and oh the parties she threw, always making meaning out of moments, big and small. She loved to make things an occasion, bringing out special decor, delicious food, and ornate costumes. From a young age, this bossy big sister would organize the younger kids into parades and dress-up parties. Later in life, she enjoyed celebrating traditional holidays, as well as myriad others, like solstice, “Festivus,” Epiphany, and “Bruschetta.” Over 28 years, she and her neighbors and friends shared over 1,350 weekly potluck meals together, what she called her true “communion.”
Kathleen had endless curiosity, an insatiable appetite for adventure, meeting new people, traveling. She cried tears of joy when she crossed the border into Arkansas during a 2010 road trip, her last of the 48 contiguous states to visit. She celebrated having traveled to all 50 states in Hawaii a few years later. She loved camping by the majestic Metolius River and rushing through the streets of Manhattan like a native. She traveled to Vietnam, Colombia, South Korea, Japan, India, and more – all in her later years.
Kathleen leaves behind her beloved husband of 21 years, Michael M. Murphy, as well as her children, Patrick Thompson, Alex Thompson, Samantha McCann, Genevieve Collier; and stepsons, Barry Murphy, Casey Murphy, and Ryan Murphy. She is also survived by her siblings, James P. McCann, Maureen McCann Waldron, Joe N. McCann, and Eileen McCann; and ten grandchildren. Kathleen was predeceased by her parents and brother, John McCann.
Kathleen will be remembered at a celebration of life on Saturday, Oct. 26 in Silverton. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Silverton Area Community Aid “Kathleen McCann Memorial Fund.”
Terry Ulven Sept. 5, 1946
Terry Ulven, age 78, of Salem, Oregon died Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. He was born to Raymond and Emily Ulven in Moorhead, Minnesota on Sept. 5, 1946.
Terry, one of ten children, moved with his family to Oregon in 1950 following the death of his sister Janine. He graduated from Silverton High School in 1964 and joined the Marine Corps following graduation. Terry married Beverly Clark in the early 2000s. Beverly preceded him in death.
Terry was a house builder and painter for years, an entrepreneur in several ventures including a country western bar in Jefferson, Oregon, beer concessions at PIR in Portland, as well as rodeos in the valley. He joked “Dusty and I sold more beer than Mario Andretti did winning the race!” Terry grew Christmas trees in the Silverton and Salem areas, operated numerous retail tree lots in Orange County, California, and sold to wholesale retailers in Oregon, California, and Texas.
Terry was a devout NY Yankee fan attending training games in Arizona. He attended games not only in Seattle but also in New York. Terry had an interest in the Salem Senators baseball team. He enjoyed time at Eagle Crest in Oregon and loved his vacations in Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, Mexico where his ashes will be dispersed.
Terry is survived by his son Tyler Ulven, his brother Andrew of Silverton, Melvin of Wilsonville, and Cheri Moberly of Silverton, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
In Memory Of
Fredrick Drescher July 24, 1933 — Sept. 20, 2024
Mary Brown-Doehle Aug. 13, 1948 — Oct. 6, 2024
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.
Your local funeral chapels serving Mt. Angel since 1919 & Silverton since 1924. Always available at your time of need
Passages
Elena Schoenlaub
Jan. 14, 1952 – Sept. 17, 2024
Elena (Hollyfield) Schoenlaub, passed peacefully on Sept. 17, 2024 with her daughters by her side, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories, her testament to the power of human connection and the importance of family.
Elena was born in Torrence, California to Jesse and Dorothey Hollyfield on Jan. 14, 1952, growing up in the city of Orange and Silverado Canyon, California. She moved to Oregon at the age of 16, where she remained for the rest of her life, aside from a brief return to California at the age of 20. She lived in Silverton until her passing.
She worked for the State of Oregon at Department of Veteran Affairs and at the Department of Revenue. Later, she worked for many years as the breakfast waitress at the The Nickelodeon Restaurant in Silverton. Following that she began bartending at the The Home Place Restaurant in Silverton, later becoming the breakfast waitress downstairs. From 2002, her final place of employment was at Wolf Steel Foundry in Hubbard. She retired in 2016.
Ten years ago, she found the love of her life, best friend and her soulmate, Bob Lovatt. Their love was undeniably special. Elena was preceded in death by both of her parents and her sister, Margo McNutt. She is survived by her daughters, Erica Rumpca (Bryan) of Silverton and Meghan Diaz (Eddie) of Salem; bonus daughter, Emily Lovatt Harbison (Dustin) of Salem; grandchildren, Hank Ulven (Miranda), Olivia Hyslop, Jagger Rumpca, and Diego Diaz; bonus grand daughter Layla; great granddaughters: Berkley and Karra; sister, Jessica Hollyfield of Milwaukie; brothers, Tad Hollyfield of McMinnville and Lance Hollyfield of Arizona; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Elena’s daughters extend their deepest gratitude to the incredible team at Serenity Hospice for their compassionate care and unwavering support.
A Celebration of Life was held Sept. 22 at the Silverton Elks Lodge #2210. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by paying it forward. Spread kindness in her name, and always tip your waitress. Arrangments by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Alice Sawyers
Dec. 17, 1925 – Sept.14, 2024
Alice Sawyers was born to Murrel and Vivian Morley. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Sawyers, and daughters, Darlene Sawyers and Kathy Ebner. Alice is survived by her children, Irene Putnam, Bill Sawyers, and Nita Kropf; 10 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and brother, Roy Morley. A private family graveside service was held at Valley View Cemetery. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Frederick A. Drescher
July 24, 1933 – Sept. 20, 2024
Frederick A. Drescher, 91, of Monitor, Oregon passed away Sept. 20, 2024. Fred was born in Monitor to John and Theresa Drescher on July 24, 1933.
Fred served in the Army National Guard, where he met some of his life-long friends. Fred married Joan (Van Dyke) McNabb on April 25, 1986, at St. Mary’s Parish in Mount Angel, Oregon.
Fred spent his days farming in Monitor and Gervais, raising vegetables and grass seed. He served for 40 years as a volunteer firefighter with Monitor Fire Deptartment. Fred enjoyed hunting and fishing in the off-season of farming.
Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan, and his siblings, Justine, Dorothy, Lawrence, Hub, John, Ann, Irene, Rita and Ed. He is survived by his sisters Clara Roshak and Margaret (Margie) Buchheit, and many nieces and nephews.
Rosary was held on Oct. 2 with Mass Oct. 3 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or to the Mt. Angel Knights of Columbus. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel of Mount Angel.
Tracy Lee Ferguson
Feb. 19, 1964 – Sept. 5, 2024
Tracy Lee Ferguson, passed away peacefully on Sept. 5, 2024 surrounded by her cherished family. Born in La Mesa, California to Don and Sandy Ferguson, Tracy was an outgoing and energetic person who impacted everyone she knew.
Tracy grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings, Terry, Dawn and Mark. Together, they shared countless childhood adventures, supported one another through life’s challenges, and built a strong, unbreakable bond.
Tracy eventually moved to Silverton, Oregon where she seamlessly wove herself into the fabric of the community. It was here that her unique ability to connect with others truly flourished, as she raised her family and shared her life’s passion with those around her. Her creative talents and genuine warmth left a lasting impact, making moments spent with her a treasured memory.
Her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her loved ones. Tracy’s capacity to love was endless, and her presence was a gift that enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.
Tracy is survived by her siblings, Terry, Dawn and Mark; nieces, Haley and Sarah; nephew, Bryce; mother, Sandra; son, Wyatt; and her many beloved friends. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Passages
Carol E. Sandaal Feb.
9, 1936 – Sept. 22, 2024
Carol E. Sandaal went home to our Heavenly Father on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024. She passed peacefully listening to the Lord’s Prayer at her daughter’s home in Salem, Oregon after a valiant fight against melanoma.
Born on Feb. 9, 1936 in a snowstorm in Gresham, Oregon, Carol was the third child of Gertrude (née Sharkey) and Winfield H. Brandt. After living in Gresham for several years, Carol moved with the family to the Brandt farm in Silverton, Oregon following the death of her paternal grandfather. There the family took up the dairy farming business and Carol often fondly recalled days spent milking, raising ducks, and many other agricultural activities. At the farm, two more siblings completed the family and together they spent leisure time in high spirits making music, appearing in plays and enjoying the outdoors. One family story involves a bike ride down East Main hill that left the daredevil young Carol with a scar on her knee.
Carol attended St. Paul’s Parish school in Silverton and Mt. Angel Academy in Mount Angel. After a year at Mt. Angel Women’s College, she followed her father’s footsteps to Oregon State University where she majored in business and minored in horticulture, heralding a life-long love of gardening. Graduating in 1958, Carol accepted a position with Coos County as a social worker and set off on a great adventure. While in Coos County, she enjoyed pizza from The Bamboo Curtain, traveled to Crater Lake and took a road trip to San Francisco with her sister Katherine and friends which featured raising a glass at The Top of the Mark.
Coos Bay was also where Carol met a handsome young Air Force lieutenant over albums browsing in a record store. A double date to the base Halloween party was the start of something special and the two soon fell deeply in love. Carol and Joe were married at St. Paul’s Catholic Church on a sunny day in November 1960, a union that would last 50 years until Joe’s death in 2010. Their Air Force career took them to Marysville, California; Fargo, North Dakota; and finally to Southern California where daughter Christine was born.
After Joe’s retirement from the Air Force the family moved back to Silverton and built a home adjacent to the Brandt’s Ivy Oak Century Farm. Sons Stephen and Daniel followed soon thereafter and Carol dedicated herself to making a fun and loving family home. This included welcoming Silvia Pazos, who arrived as an exchange student from Uruguay for the 1984-85 school year and left as a daughter, remaining close via letters and emails.
An accomplished gardener and baker, Carol also enjoyed volunteering at Silverton Area Community Aid, Meals on Wheels, her children’s classrooms and annually at the St. Paul Knights of Columbus booth at the Oktoberfest. Carol was a longstanding member of the board for St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery. In her later years, she obtained a food handler’s certification so that she could support the afterschool program for Mark Twain students.
Carol was a hard worker who was never known to sit still for long. She always had a project and was always willing to recruit others to be out doing and making a difference. Once her children were well into school, she returned to the workforce as an instruction aide in the special education classroom at Robert Frost. Friendships made while at Robert Frost were enjoyed by Carol and Joe enjoyed into their retirement. The longstanding fellowship with their bible study discussion group was a wellspring of joy and strength, with much love, tears and laughter shared together over the years.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph R. Sandaal; her son, Steve; and her sister, Patricia. Carol is survived by her son, Daniel and wife Erin; grandsons, Zach (Taylor) Hillegas and Greg Jones; great grandchildren, Ava and Grace Hillegas; daughter, Christine and husband Drew Clarke; grandchildren, Paige (Ben) Vaughn, Will Clarke, Quinn Clarke, Wyatt Clarke and Piper Clarke; sisters, Katherine Huber and Mary Rose Brandt; brother, John and wife, Jan. Known as Aunt Doodie, Carol had a close relationship with her many nephews and nieces across several generations.
Funeral services were held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Silverton, Oregon on Oct. 5, with Rosary and Mass, followed by internment at St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery. The family is grateful for the excellent health care Carol received in Silverton and Salem over the years and extends particular thanks to the caregivers from A Golden Hand Home Care and Willamette Vital Health hospice in the last months of her life. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Don Charles Nelson passed away suddenly at the age of 79 on Sept. 16, 2024, in Silverton, Oregon.
Born on Aug. 21, 1945, in Omaha, Nebraska, Don was the son of Nicolas Karl Nelson Sr. and Edith Lorraine Peterson. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Nicholas Nelson Jr. and Joan Galbraith.
Don pursued an education in Electronic Technology, earning an Associate of Science degree from Mt. San Antonio College. He built a distinguished career as a Radio Transmission Equipment Technician, working for Verizon for over 30 years. Don served honorably in the U.S. Navy as a Radioman Petty Officer 2nd Class for four years, including a tour during the Vietnam War, and was stationed in Japan.
He married Sandra Nelson on Sept. 23, 2003, and they shared 20 wonderful years together. Don is survived by his children, Abram (Nisha), Ezra, Matthew, and Elizabeth Nelson, as well as Lance (Elisa) and Lane (Maribel) Ryan. He also leaves behind a cherished grandchild, Augie,
and a dear niece, Jennifer Abels, along with her daughter, Jessica Robbins.
Don was a Nebraska Football fanatic and a master of meat smoking. He was known for his award-winning chili and his famous margaritas. He volunteered with Move to Amend, advocating to get money out of politics, and was an active member and chaplain of Silverton Elks Lodge #2210.
Don was known for his kindness and his relentless pursuit of truth. He made a lasting impact on his friends and family, inspiring them with his integrity and dedication. Don will be remembered for his warm heart, his love for family and football, and his unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
A memorial service was held on Oct. 3 at Silverton Foursquare Church. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to University of Nebraska (A Campaign for Our University’s Future) at www.unl.edu/ give/
May 1, 1929 – Oct. 29, 2021
On Oct. 29, 2021, the Angels came and carried Dr. Davies home to heaven to be with God.
Dr. Davies made Silverton his home in 1957 and started his amazing journey “taking care of many.” He touched the lives and cared for his patients with devotion, compassion and love. He is truly missed by so many people.
Please join Sheryl Davies in celebrating his life: Sunday, Oct. 27 from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. at Mount Angel Festhalle (500 Wilco Hwy. NE)
Any questions, please call and leave a message with Sheryl at 503-510-8828
We are also taking donations to give to SILVERTON FIRE DISTRICT & SUBLIMITY FIRE DISTRICT in Dr. Olwyn’s honor.
Inaugural purchase Trust set to acquire land along North Santiam
By James Day
The new Willamette River Preservation Trust is on the verge of acquiring its first piece of property.
The organization formed earlier this year and aimed at purchasing land in the Willamette basin for conservation and recreation, is in contract for a piece of property along the North Santiam River near Stayton.
The 270-acre piece of land includes wetlands, wet prairie, oak woodland and will be called Oak Meadows Natural Area, said Travis Williams, founder, president and CEO of the Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit.
“Well, we are on our way,” Williams told Our Town. “This property is fantastic. It supports Bradshaw’s lomatioum as well as extensive camas in the spring. It also holds native sedges and grasses.”
Bradshaw’s lomatium is a sweet native flower that was once on the Endangered Species List. It is recovering and has been de-listed.
The purchase price of the property is $295,000, and the trust has until Dec. 15 to finish raising the money. “We will hopefully attract a range of individual donors at all levels, as well as a foundation grant or two in order to reach our fundraising goal,” Williams said.
Regarding the history of the property, Williams said the owners had once grown grass seed, and it had poplars as well.
“Several years ago they gained a conservation easement on the property from the Natural Resource Conservation Service,” he said. “Since then the property has been given over to conservation, with native sedges on the site, the Bradshaw’s lomatium, and some wonderful oak woodland.
“In time we will provide opportunities for the general public to visit the site. Hopefully we can do that in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming.”
The Forum Opinions in ad misogynistic
Key environmental benefits of the property cited by Williams included:
• Oak meadows sustain unique wetland and native grassland species.
• The expansive meadow of camas and the presence of Bradshaw’s lomatium make this property unique.
• It supports a range of oak woodland habitat, replete with Oregon grape and snowberry in the understory.
“The property will be managed to enable the species out there to flourish, and grow,” said Williams, who founded the River Trust after serving for 24 years as head of the Willamette Riverkeepers. “There will be opportunities for guided hikes and more as we settle in and see what works best. I always hope that we are able to include opportunities for people to go outside, and to see and learn about such places. We will most definitely include opportunities to see and experience the wildflowers in the spring and beyond.”
To contribute go to wrtrust.org or send a check to Willamette River Preservation Trust, P.O. Box 117, Scotts Mills, OR 97375.
Once again a man, with support from friends of like mind, has placed a full-page ad in the Vol. 21 No. 18 issue of the Our Town publication with the intent of justifying his opinion that women aught to be deprived the right to make important physical, mental health, and life decisions without interference from others by flooding us with quotes from the Bible.
His attempt to hide his misogynistic opinions by mixing messages of objection to slavery (could he actually mean racial injustice?) with oppressive ideas of women’s rights is transparent.
Although I don’t know the legal definition of discrimination, I believe the text he puts in his ads is at least objectionable if not discriminatory.
It is my opinion that you do your readers a disservice by printing text from that man and his cohorts from the Noble Men Of Oregon in your publication.
Thank you for your consideration.
David Steinberg Silverton
SUBMISSIONS TO THE FORUM
Letters to the editor can be directed to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com or mailed to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mount Angel, OR 97362. It is recommended submissions be limited to fewer than 350 words, 500 words for Guest Opinions. Our Town reserves the right to edit for clarity and space. Anonymous letters will not be published, nor will letters that include personal attacks, hate speech or advocate discrimination or violence.
The prairie and grassland components of the 270-acre site the Willamette River Preservation Trust is working to purchase.
WILLAMETTE RIVER PRESERVATION TRUST
Sports & Recreation
New rivalry?
We’re just two games into the Class 5A Special District 2 football race and it’s already a two-team race between Silverton and Wilsonville. Which is kind of what I was hoping for. When the OSAA downsized the bloated Mid-Willamette Conference from its 10 teams to six for the fall, it pushed Silverton, Central, McKay and Woodburn into a new district with Canby and Wilsonville. As in the Wilsonville that was second in the OSAA Cup’s all-sports competition a year ago, after winning the trophy the three previous years it was awarded (I’m skipping the COVID-19 year). As in the Wilsonville that has played for the 5A basketball title eight times since 2015, winning the trophy five of those times. As in the Wilsonville that has played for the 5A football title four times since 2016, winning its first championship last season.
Silverton gets set for football showdown with Wilsonville
and the Wildcats returning the favor in 2022. The two schools also played in the 2019 semis. The football rivalry in recent days consists of just one game, a 39-26 home win for Wilsonville in the 2022 5A quarterfinals. Game two is Friday, Oct. 18 at McGinnis Field, when the Wildcats (5-1 overall, 2-0 district) visit the Foxes (ditto on the records) with the district title essentially on the line. Yes, Canby and McKay are just a game back at 1-1 apiece, but Wilsonville picked apart Canby 42-6 and the Foxes flatlined McKay 32-7.
So strap on your helmets and chin straps. The Foxes are looking to keep winning and get a shot at a second 5A title in four years (they won in 2021). And it’s another great opportunity for Silverton to test itself against one of the state’s elite teams. See our Facebook page Oct. 15, for a game preview. Should be fun.
Silverton was 7-0-1 overall and 3-0 in MidWillamette play at Our Town’s presstime. The Foxes, ranked sixth in Class 5A, were named Silverton’s Les Schwab team of the month. Crescent Valley and Silverton are the lone unbeatens in league, with the Foxes due to travel to No. 13 C.V. (5-3 overall, 3-0 in league) on Oct. 22.
Volleyball: Silverton was 9-5 overall, 7-3 in the Mid-Willamette and ranked 13th in Class 5A at presstime. The Foxes are tied for fourth, the final automatic playoff spot. Silverton has three league matches left, including an Oct. 17 home session against C.V. (9-1 in league) and an Oct. 24 road encounter with Corvallis (7-2 in league).
Yulissa Chavez Cortes of the Trojans is ranked fourth in the district at 19:55.6 for 5K, while boys teammate Bohden Sowa has had a superb freshman season and is ranked seventh at 18:29.0. Silverton’s JD Arthur ranks sixth for MWC boys at 15:43.3, while girls teammate Rachel Kintz is 11th at 20:17.5.
The Foxes and Wildcats have developed a nice hoops rivalry, with Silverton taking down Wilsonville in the 2015 title game
Girls Soccer: The Foxes continue to shine in their first season under first-year co-coaches Don Holland and Eric Lay
Cross Country: Kennedy and Silverton both have runners ranked in the top 11 in their districts as league meets loom. Kennedy participates in the boys Class 2A-1A District 2 meet on Oct. 30 in Lebanon, with the girls Class 3A-2A-1A meet set for the same day and site. The Foxes run in the Nov. 1 Mid-Willamette Conference meet in Monmouth.
Alumni Watch: A pair of ex-Foxes are playing key roles for college teams. Jackson Pfeifer, who scored 33 TDs in 2022, his senior year, is part of a three-headed RB corps at Linfield. Pfeifer, a 5-11, 190-pound sophomore, is second on the Wildcats in rushing with 116 yards and leads the team in receptions with 18 for 129 yards. Jordan McCarty, who shares QB duties with Kainoa Jones at Western Oregon, helped lead the Wolves to their third consecutive Lone Star Conference win Oct. 5, a 34-10 victory at Western New Mexico. McCarty, a sophomore who quarterbacked the Foxes to the Class 5A title in 2021, is second on the Wolves in rushing with 157 yards. He also has connected on 21 of 45 passes for 237 yards.
Rate hike Oregon State Park fees going up starting Oct. 15
By James Day
Fees for camping, parking and reservations in Oregon State Parks are going up.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department officials announced Sept. 27 that the fees will be increasing, citing higher costs for utilities, operations and maintenance in addition to inflation.
The increases came after an extensive public record that included opportunities for Oregon residents to weigh in via letter, email, in-person or Zoom.
“We know that raising fees by any amount can be challenging for visitors, and we don’t make this decision lightly,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption. “We try to keep costs and fees as low as possible to minimize the impact while still fulfilling our commitment to stewardship and recreation.”
Most of the increases range from $2 to $5. The park system has experienced record visitation in the years after the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data released by the OPRD. Utility costs have increased by 28 percent during the past four years, but most
state park fees have remained the same. Depending on the fee, the most recent increase was from seven to 15 years ago.
OPRD has three main sources of funding. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15 percent comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35 percent comes from park users. OPRD does not receive general fund state tax funds.
The fees will be phased in:
Oct. 15, 2024: OPRD will increase its base camping fees for the first time since 2017. The increase applies to all camping reservations for 2025. The increases include:
• $2 increase for miscellaneous sites (teepees, meeting halls and other facilities)
• $3 increase for tent sites (includes horse tent sites, horse group sites, group tent and paddle-in sites) and primitive sites (includes overflow, fly-in and walk-to-sites)
• $4 increase for RV sites (includes full hookup, electrical, horse RV and group sites)
• $5 increase for cabins and yurts (includes
rustic, mini, totem, and deluxe sites)
Seasonal rate increases were adopted in 2020. The seasonal adjustments will be added to the new base rates. As in previous years, summer rates are $2 more for tent sites, $3 more for RV sites and $5 more for cabins/yurts.
Jan. 1, 2025: OPRD will increase its reservation fee from $8 to $10 per site starting Jan. 1, 2025. This fee has not been increased since 2010. Daily parking permit fees will increase from $5 to $10 at the 25 parks that charge such a fee. Parking permit fees were last increased in 2009. The annual permit and the two-year permit fees remain the same at $30 for the annual permit and $50 for the two-year permit.
July 1, 2025: OPRD will expand the 25 percent out-of-state surcharge for RV campsites (required by state law) to all site types. New camping rate ranges replace the existing ones. These ranges set the lowest and highest fees that OPRD can charge over time. It gives the OPRD director the ability to change fees in the future as needed. The last rate range update was adopted in 2018.
In one other piece of the OPRD’s fee structure, the agency is seeking public comment on a proposed rule change that would give Sumption and her successors as director greater flexibility to decide which parks charge a day-use parking permit fee. The proposed rule change would require day-use parking permit fees at all state parks but give the director the ability to waive the fee. If adopted, the director has said she plans to waive the fee at most parks.
Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. Nov. 1, and can be submitted:
Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/ PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-10.2024-Fees.aspx
Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
Email: OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd. oregon.gov
A virtual hearing also will be held for public comments: Oct. 23, 5:30 p.m. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_V32OTU_WRX6OKPmeo3kPIg
Working to strengthen public safety by:
Holding criminals and drug dealers accountable.
Respecting rights of victims.
Supporting law enforcement.
Providing a pathway to drug treatment that actually works.
Supporting our local economy by:
Working to reduce regulations and cut taxes on small businesses and family farms so they can stay open, grow their businesses and produce more jobs.
Working to control government spending and waste to reduce the tax burden on hard-working families.
Supporting affordable housing by:
Continuing to try to pass my affordable housing bill for rural communities.
Standing up for veterans by:
Working to maintain vital funding for Oregon veterans and their families to help the men and women who have defended our freedom.
Feeding a family
The way we feed ourselves is an important part of our family life and, as such, it has changed a lot over the years as we have added children, changed vocations and learned to manage our time differently. And yet, sometimes I find myself wondering – how did we get here?
Sourcing
There was a time, when my kids were still small, when my whole world revolved around our home. I gardened, I preserved, and I made from scratch nearly everything we ate. I loved it. But slowly during the past 10 years my focus has changed. Our lives have expanded, and we are out of the house most evenings and many weekends too. I no longer have the time to put in and care for a massive garden or to spend all day canning. Instead, we spend our off-work hours watching our kids develop a love of sports and theater and taking trips as a family. It’s a tradeoff, but one I have, thus far, not regretted as we have precious few years with all of them still at home.
Oh, how things have changed
Cooking
I’ve always loved to cook, but if I’m honest our busy schedule has, in recent years, taken a bit of the joy out of the task. Which is why weekend cooking has become something we all look forward to. Those unstructured days, especially during the cool winter months, afford us the time to take turns experimenting with recipes and ingredients, making meals we can be proud of and allowing our kids the time to hone their cooking skills.
Eating
I could author an entire book on the ways eating as a family has changed during the past 15 years. From holding a newborn
while my husband cut up my food, to attempting to keep antsy toddlers seated for an entire meal, to the gratitude I feel when we can all sit down at once – it’s been a rollercoaster ride for sure. And there are more changes ahead as, in only a few years, there will likely be one seat at our table empty every night. But knowing that makes me more determined than ever to put in the effort to make family meals happen, after all food is love and what better way is there to show my family I love them all at once?
Partnering
There has been a lot of instruction, sideby-side cooking and even a monthly kids recipe subscription that has gotten them to where they are today – my partners in the kitchen, on the road to taking over the vital role of feeding themselves once they become adults.
Looking ahead
Every year my kids take on a bigger role in the kitchen. They all like to cook and, to a varying degree, can accomplish anything from making their own breakfasts and packing their own lunches to making the entire family dinner. But they didn’t learn those skills overnight.
Over the years we have dealt with many of the same challenges other parents of small children deal with every day – wasted food, picky eaters and wiggly diners who make eating out less than fun. But as our kids have grown most of those challenges have fallen away. With experience they have learned what foods they like and how much they can eat at a sitting, they can cook for themselves and will happily do so if dinner isn’t to their tastes, and they have become fun and engaging dinnertime companions. Now, if only we can get them to pay the bill…
Bon appétit. MELISSA WAGONER
GENERAL
YOUR RIGHT TO SELF
DEFENSE Saturdays Age 10-12 at 5:00; Age 13 & up 6:15; Security & Correctional Officers 7:30. Private Lessons Available International Certification Curriculum available on request Call Harold 503-391-7406.
A Magic Carpet Cleaning & More Service
HELP WANTED
HOUSEKEEPER WANTED
$20 and hour. Home in Lyons. 503-383-4398
SERVICES
MAGIC CARPET CLEANING
& MORE Since 1992. Carpet & upholstery cleaning at its best. Free estimates. Residential & commercial. Located in Silverton. Call Harold at 503-391-7406
SOUNDS GOOD STUDIO
Bands, artists, personal karaoke CDs, books, restoration for old cassettes, reel-to-reel and 8-track cassettes (even if broken). Call Harold 503-391-7406. A Magic Carpet Cleaning & More Service
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
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
GOT STUFF YOU WANT GONE? From yard debris to scrap metal-From garage sale left overs 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. Call Keith 503-502-3462
WANTED
LOOKING TO PURCHASE A COMMERCIAL BUILDING
in downtown Silverton or surrounding towns. Two story or three. Serious buyer looks for a serious seller only. Duke 505-429-1523
To advertise call
#T2828 BEAUTIFUL
HOME
$559,900 Beautiful well cared for, single level ranch style home in Mountain High Addition. Built in 1999, home includes 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with 1,546 sq. ft. of living space, gas fireplace in living room, granite countertops in kitchen, manicured landscaping, and fully fenced yard. Newer kitchen appliances and roof was replaced in September 2023. Nice deck off dining area to backyard in quiet neighborhood with seasonal views toward Mt. Angel. Call for an appointment today! Call Chuck at ext. 325 (WVMLS#817263)
#T2829 SO MUCH POTENTIAL
$457,300 Improved price! So much potential in this 1910 Silverton home, this home sits on a large lot, 0.49 acres inside the city limits, with room for a shop and/or an ADU. This home has 4 bedrooms, 1 bath, brand new roof, newer paint. Open backyard with access off Wall St, Buyer to do their own due diligence for divide ability. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 (WVMLS#817252)
SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
#T2844 SINGLE LEVEL 3 BR, 2 BA 1320 sqft. Mt. Angel. Call Michael at ext. 314 $425,000 (WVMLS#820704)
#T2840 NORTH FORK
PROPERTY 3 BR, 1 BA 1941 sqft. Lyons. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322
$348,700 (WVMLS#820296)
#T2817 GREAT LOCATION
2 BR, 2 BA 990 sqft. Independence. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322
$447,800 (WVMLS#815114)
#T2819 FIVE SEPARATE UNITS 6 BR, 5 BA 3172 sqft. Salem. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322
$750,000 (WVMLS#815616)
SOLD! – #T2845 BIG MEADOW SUBDIVISION
4 BR, 3 BA 2696 sqft. Molalla. Call Chuck at ext. 325 or Becky at ext. 313 $559,900
BARELAND/LOTS
#T2841 OVER 100FT OF ABIQUA FRONTAGE 1.35
Acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $475,000 (WVMLS#820496)
#T2816 2 BUILDABLE LOTS .45 Acres. Silverton.
Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $109,900 (WVMLS#814998)
#T2827 GREAT OPPORTUNITY 1.66 Acres. Salem.
Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $194,000 (WVMLS#817231)
#T2832 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME 2.93 Acres. Silverton.
Call Whitney at ext. 320 or Mike at ext. 312 $399,000 (WVMLS#817735)
#T2825
PRICE ADJUSTMENT
$614,000 Built in ‘95 home overlooks the HOA common area with pond An open floor plan with no step entry. Vaulted Great Rm. Large BR suite on main. Recent upgrades include: new carpet, LVP flooring, granite & quartz counter tops, sprinkler system, Hi-eff. HVAC, whole home surge protection, solar panels. Lower level has paver patio. Located on the east side of Silverton on a quiet / low traffic street. Short distance to downtown. Call Michael at ext. 314 (WVMLS#816834)
Step into your own private retreat. This beautiful 3-bedroom 2.5 bath home is located on a dead-end street on the south end of town. The open downstairs floor plan leads to a large peaceful backyard, ready for hosting or for just relaxing around the fire or soaking in the hot tub. Upstairs rooms are spacious with plenty of storage. Extra parking along the house for all your toys! Moments from downtown, city parks, library, restaurants and so much more. Call Becky at ext. 313 (WVMLS#821377)
#T2825 – PRICE ADJUSTMENT 3 BR, 2 BA 2264 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314
$614,000 (WVMLS#816834)
#T2828 – BEAUTIFUL HOME 3 BR, 2 BA 1546 sqft Call Chuck at ext. 325
$559,900 (WVMLS#816834)
#T2829 SO MUCH POTENTIAL 4 BR, 1 BA 1572 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $457,300 (WVMLS#817252)
#T2833 – MOVE-IN READY
4 BR, 2.5 BA 2112 sqft Call Michael at ext. 314
$654,900 (WVMLS#818145)
#T2842 HOBBY FARM
4 BR, 2 BA 1873 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $584,700 (WVMLS#820434)
#T2847 – PRIVATE RETREAT 3 BR, 2.5 BA 1936 sqft Call Becky at ext. 313 $585,000 (WVMLS#821377)
