Our Town South: Aug. 1, 2023

Helping Hands

Just a few kind words

By Mary Owen

A local Girl Scout believes school bathrooms are not known to be the safest place, so much so she set out to make positive changes.

“I chose this project to turn the bathrooms from a negative space into an uplifting and encouraging space,” said Addison Winstead, who earned her Gold Award with the 80-plus hour refurbishment of the large girl’s bathroom at Stayton High School. “I wanted the motivational quotes and glittery pink paint to help the girls when they’re feeling down or having a hard time.”

According to her mother Brooke, Winstead thought softening the colors and putting motivational and uplifting quotes on the stall doors would be a great start. With her team of volunteers and project advisor Megan Schiedler, she painted all of the metal stalls a soft, glittery pink.

“She ran into difficulties here because the girls have a bad habit of defacing the bathroom stalls,” Winstead’s mom said. “She repainted more times than she cares to recognize, but with the help of admin and getting the word out, it seems to have slowed way down. That is the main reason the project took her so long to complete, in addition to the 80-hour time requirement.”

Now finished, the pink doors bear uplifting quotes such as “Never let anyone dull your sparkle,” “One kind word can change someone’s entire day,” and “Be the best version of you.”

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest and most prestigious award within the Girls Scouts of the USA, earned by Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts. Only 5.4 percent of eligible Girl Scouts earn this award, which is comparable to the Boy Scouts of America’s Eagle Scout standing.

Winstead has been in Girl Scouts for 10 years and is a member of Troop 21890. She has been a top cookie seller in her area, selling over 2,000 boxes per year for the last few years. She also earned her Silver Award by building a buddy bench for Sublimity Elementary School. Her troop enjoys traveling and has been to Disneyland twice. Members tagged Nashville as their final destination.

Earning both the Silver and Gold awards are two important milestones in Winstead’s Girl Scout career. GSUSA says the same vision, commitment and leadership that brings girls through the award process will carry each to new heights.

According to the GSUSA, Scouts who earn this award

distinguish themselves in the college admission process, earn scholarships, and enter the military one rank higher than other enlistees.

One of the decorative affirmations in the girls bathroom at Stayton High, part of Addison Winstead’s Gold Award-winning Scout project. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Girl Scout receives award for school bathroom project

beyond while they learn essential skills that will prepare them for all aspects of life. As a bonus, the Gold Award opens doors to a variety of scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, strong networking and amazing career opportunities, and much more.”

From its beginning in 1916, the greatest achievement in Girl Scouting has been a symbol of excellence and leadership that recognizes “the extraordinary efforts of extraordinary girls,” according to GSUSA.

Additionally, while the Gold Award has gone by many names, now all Girl Scouts who earned the First Class, Curved Bar, Golden Eaglet or Golden Eagle of Merit are part of the Gold Award Girl Scout Family.

For Winstead, Girl Scouts ends the fall after graduation. She plans to attend Chemeketa Community College on the Chemeketa Scholars program.

Habitat receives $1.2 million

Habitat for Humanity of the Mid-Willamette Valley plans to build a new low-income home in Stayton after receiving a $1.2 million grant from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).

The grant was part of $65 million in funding awarded by OHCS May 10 for housing projects throughout the state. The purpose was to increase home-buying opportunities for middle- to lowincome residents.

The $1.2 million grant will fund a new house in Stayton within the next three years, as well as five homes in Salem. Habitat for Humanity MWV Executive Director Jerry Ambris said in a media release the grant is an important source of support for non-profit housing developers.

“This funding will enable us to significantly increase the number of affordable single-family homes we can build in our service area,” Ambris said.

“Through pursuing the Gold Award, Girl Scouts change the world by tackling issues they are passionate about to drive lasting change in their communities and

“I had so much help from classmates and felt really proud of the work that was done,” Winstead said of the bathroom update. “I wanted to make a difference in our school, and I feel like I achieved that.”

The group’s service area includes the Salem, Keizer, Dallas, Independence and Monmouth areas and the Santiam Canyon. Recent completed projects include roof replacements for two homes in Lyons.

– Stephen Floyd

Addison Winstead. SUBMITTED PHOTO

A Stayton woman has been charged with Measure 11 assault after a DUII wreck allegedly injured a man and endangered two other people.

Daron Alexandra Andall-McKinzie, 36, was charged in Linn County Circuit Court July 3 with second-degree assault, DUII and three counts of reckless endangering. If convicted, she faces at least 70 months in prison.

Andall-McKinzie allegedly caused a wreck while inebriated June 10. It seriously injured one man and posed a danger to two other people. She was released on her own recognizance July 3 with orders to have no contact with the alleged victim and to not drive while awaiting trial.

Lyons sex offender arrested for

theft

A registered sex offender in Lyons has been arrested on new charges after allegedly stealing multiple thousands of dollars from an elderly victim.

David Lee Ansted, 65, was charged in Linn County Circuit Court June 30 with aggravated first-degree theft and three counts of first-degree theft. As of press time, he was lodged in the Linn County Jail in lieu of $20,000 bail.

Ansted allegedly stole at least $10,000 in one incident in 2019 from an elderly woman, and at least $1,000 in each of three separate incidents between 2019 and 2020 from the same victim. The

thefts allegedly involved credit card fraud, computer crimes and mishandling of entrusted property.

Ansted was required to register as a sex offender after being convicted of firstdegree rape in 1992 in Marion Couny.

Scio veterinarian charged with animal neglect

A Scio veterinarian has been charged with felony animal neglect after more than two-dozen sheep were allegedly injured or killed through mistreatment.

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

Authorities allegedly found 27 sheep owned by Dietrich confined and neglected for a prolonged period on a Scio farm. Several sheep 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.

Probation for meth possession offense

A Lyons woman has been sentenced to probation after pleading guilty to possessing a commercial quantity of

methamphetamine.

Sarah Michelle Rayals, 41, pleaded guilty July 25 to unlawful possession of methamphetamine and felon in possession of a firearm. She was sentenced to three years of probation.

She was arrested July 7 in possession of more than eight grams of methamphetamine, in addition to packaging materials for the sale of drugs, an illegally-possessed firearm and a stolen car.

While on probation, Ryals may not consume intoxicants, associate with those who do, or frequent places where intoxicants are sold. She must also participate in substance abuse treatment.

Plea deal for marijuana grow

An Aumsville man has been sentenced to probation and community service for his role in a series of illegal marijuana grows busted in a drug sting in December.

Bin Bin Huang, 32, pleaded guilty July 10 in Marion County Circuit Court to a felony charge of unlawful manufacture of a marijuana item. He was sentenced to three years probation and 800 hours of community service.

Huang was arrested Dec. 28, 2022, after police raided four homes near Aumsville and South Salem and discovered 2,578 marijuana plants, 53 pounds of processed marijuana and over $5,000 in cash. Also

arrested was Bin Dong, 41, of Salem, who entered a similar plea deal July 20 and was sentenced to three years of probation and 1,600 hours of community service.

Suits by murder suspect dismissed

Two federal lawsuits by a Stayton man arrested for murder in 2021 have been dismissed after lack of action by the plaintiff.

Separate lawsuits filed by Brian Schaefer against the Stayton Police Department and Stayton Hospital were thrown out in June in U.S. District Court for want of prosecution.

Schaefer, 41, was arrested Jan. 10, 2021, for the shooting death of his aunt, Karen Schaefer, 71. He was suspected of being high on methamphetamine at the time.

Schaefer claimed he was wrongfully arrested by police, and said a blood draw at the hospital for a drug test was performed without a warrant. He filed the two lawsuits Jan. 19 seeking unspecified damages for court costs and medical bills he had incurred while awaiting trial in the Marion County Jail.

Schaefer’s murder case was dismissed Feb. 23 “in the interest of justice.” Schaefer made no new filings since, leading to the dismissals.

Civics 101

Camping ban Stayton passes restrictions on where homeless can sleep

By Stephen Floyd

The Stayton City Council has passed an ordinance banning camping on all city property except a few undeveloped parcels, amid broad support for tight restrictions on public camping.

The ordinance was passed July 17 in response to House Bill 3115, which requires cities to set aside public land for camping if they are to enforce camping bans elsewhere.

The new ordinance allows camping at a limited number of undeveloped, city-owned parcels at the south end of N. Oak Avenue, near W. Maple Street and S. Evergreen Avenue, and near E. Pine Street and 28th Avenue. Camping is allowed only between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

The ordinance otherwise bans camping at all city-owned facilities and rights-of-way, and on all developed parks without a camping permit from the city. The new rules go into effect Aug. 16. They replace a current policy that bans camping on all public property.

The ban follows a recommendation from

the city’s Homeless Task Force and an outpouring of community support for camping bans in public areas. A survey by the city showed residents overwhelmingly opposed camping in public parks and rightsof-way. The first reading of the ordinance June 19 had numerous individuals speak in favor of the proposal.

Officials said they believed HB 3115 was unnecessary overreach from Salem. They said they wanted to pass something that would conform with the rule, but would also make it harder to be homeless in Stayton long-term.

“Those parks are for the citizens of Stayton and I feel wrong taking away those areas from the citizens,” said Councilor Steve Sims, who preferred finding industrial land to designate for camping.

“I am a firm believer that it’s not compassionate to let people wallow in places,” said Councilor Jordan Ohrt.

“How can we find something that’s workable that makes it very difficult to be houseless in this community?” asked

Councilor David Giglio.

The council approved the ordinance 3-2 June 19, with Ohrt and Giglio the “no” votes, stating they felt the proposal needed to be refined. Because the vote was not unanimous, the ordinance was scheduled for a second reading July 17.

At that time, Giglio introduced the daytime camping restrictions to further limit the viability of long-term camping. Sims said a daytime ban requiring homeless people to move their camps would “make it painful to stay in Stayton and will drive folks out.”

The amended ordinance passed 3-1, with Ohrt absent and Councilor Ben McDonald opposed. He expressed concerns that a daytime ban may not actually force homeless campers from Stayton but may compel them to wander through town during the day and create a public nuisance.

Now the Homeless Task Force will consider potential refinements to the rules. During a meeting July 10, they discussed potential time limits on days spent camping, the possibility of allowing camping on

undeveloped rights-of-way, and other potential revisions.

The task force also discussed concerns that a policy with too many rules may require too many police resources to enforce. Police Chief Gwen Johns told the task force that a policy which is less vague will help her officers with enforcement.

The new rules are expected to impact a relatively small number of homeless people living in Stayton. According to a pointin-time count conducted in January, 10 homeless people were found in the city. The point-in-time count was conducted by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as part of a program by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Alliance Chair Jeremy Gordon told Our Town that blanket camping restrictions move the problem out of view but do not create a solution.

“Homelessness is rising in every community in Oregon and all leaders should take responsibility towards exploring solutions,” said Gordon.

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By James Day

Efforts by the city of Aumsville to raise money for a new water treatment plan have received a $5 million shot in the arm.

In the closing days of the 2023 Legislature the city received $5 million from the Legislature’s capital budget to assist with the project. The appropriation gives Aumsville $9.5 million toward the $28 million it needs to build a new water treatment plant that will meet state Department of Environmental Quality standards that were revised in 2019.

The key issue, said City Administrator Ron Harding, “is the ammonia content and the fact that the city’s lagoon treatment facility could not meet the newer standards set by DEQ.”

Failing to meet the standards means no shot at receiving the required National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System discharge permit that would allow the city to discharge effluent into the North Santiam River, Harding said.

In a letter to constituents thanking them for their support, Mayor Angelica Ceja said “your support was vital in helping us receive these funds because we could

show our community was engaged in the issue and concerned about our ability to maintain affordable utility rates.”

Ceja, Harding and other city officials discussed the water issue and affordable housing with Governor Tina Kotek, who stopped in Aumsville on June 23 during the Marion County portion of her listening tour.

In her letter, Ceja thanked Kotek for visiting while also praising state Sen. Fred Girod and state Rep. Ed Diehl for their efforts in securing Aumsville the $5 million from the Legislature.

“We’re not done,” said Ceja. She went door to door in town earlier this spring to explain the water treatment situation to residents. “The city will continue to look for additional grant opportunities, and we have done a good job of positioning the city for some grants in the form of loan forgiveness. There is no guarantee, but we are hopeful we can position the city to receive an additional $5-8 million in grants during the loan stage of this project. This should provide funding for more than 50% of the project.

“Finally, let me thank our community for stepping up to help. It’s a very powerful statement to say to our state and

HomeGrown H Remedies HG

federal representatives that our community is engaged in this issue, and we are working together to meet the state requirements while making this project sustainable for our community.”

Harding said the city continues to seek funds from the legislature, grants, and funding programs offered by the state and the federal government. The city is facing a 2028 deadline to meet the new requirements.

Wastewater flows into one of the lagoons along Highway 22 in Aumsville. The city must replace its water treatment plant because it cannot meet new state environmental standards with its current setup.  SUBMITTED PHOTO

Mayor Angelica Ceja SUBMITTED PHOTO

New rules For manufactured homes

By Stephen Floyd

The Stayton City Council has approved an amendment to its development codes allowing more options to build and site manufactured homes. The council voted unanimously to approve Ordinance 1060, which brought the city into compliance with new state regulations.

As of last year, Oregon cities can no longer prohibit or otherwise limit the siting of manufactured homes on land zoned for single-family dwellings. Manufactured homes must still comply with zoning and development rules that apply to singlefamily, detached structures.

Legislators said the new regulations would expand housing options amid a dire statewide housing crisis.

Stayton’s ordinance removed most of the rules specific to manufactured homes from city code including regulations on siding, roofing and perimeter enclosures. Remaining regulations required a minimum width of 24 feet, which does not allow for single-wide homes, and that wheels, trailer

hitches and other transport mechanisms be removed.  Ordinance 1060 kept these requirements by applying them to site-built homes as well.

The new state regulations also prohibited cities from setting minimum lot sizes larger than one acre for mobile home parks. Stayton’s code set a minimum of five acres. It was reduced to comply with state law.

Councilor Jordan Ohrt asked why there were rules specific to manufactured homes. The city planning director explained 60 years ago they did not match the aesthetics of site-built homes. Residents were concerned about their impact on property values. Today’s manufactured homes, he said, blend in with more traditional homes and it no longer makes sense to differentiate.

Councilor David Patty said the proposal was straightforward and he saw no problem adopting the changes. Councilor Ben McDonald said he was in favor of removing regulations to building and development and saw no reason to continue having different rules for manufactured homes.

Frequent Address

Stayton Community Center, 400 W Virginia St.

Stayton Public Library, 515 N First Ave.

Weekly Events

Monday

Stayton Community Food Bank, 9 a.m. - noon, 1210 Wilco Road. Repeats

Monday - Friday. 503-769-4088

Santiam Senior Center, 10 a.m.4 p.m., 41818 Kingston-Jordan Road, Stayton. Seniors 50 and older. Daily, weekly, monthly events. 503-767-2009, santiamseniorcenter.com

Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m. Delivery only. Age 60+. Serves Stayton, Sublimity, Aumsville, Lyons, Marion, Mehama. Repeats Wednesday, Fri. $3 donation suggested. Ginger, 503-769-7995

Wednesday

St. Boniface Archives and Museum, 9 a.m. - noon, 370 Main St., Sublimity. Learn about Sublimity and possibly your family history. Free. 503-508-0312

Stayton Area Rotary, noon, Santiam Golf Club, 8724 Golf Club Road, Aumsville. Guests welcome. 503-508-9431, staytonarearotary.org

Cascade Country Quilters, 12:30 p.m., Santiam Senior Center, 41818 KingstonJordan Road, Stayton. 503-767-2009

Stayton Farmers Market, 3 - 6 p.m., Third and Florence, downtown Stayton. For information, visit Stayton Farmers Market on Facebook or Instagram.

Thursday

Sublimity Quilters, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. Boniface Catholic Church, 375 SE Church St., Sublimity. Make quilts for local community, charities. Everything is provided. New members welcome.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1077 N Sixth Ave., Stayton. Families with young children can visit St. Anne’s Atrium to learn about the bible. RSVP to Sacha Eztel, 503-769-2656.

Point Man Ministries, 6 p.m., Canyon Bible Fellowship, 446 Cedar St., Lyons. Veterans support org. 503-859-2627

Friday

Cars & Coffee, 8 a.m., Covered Bridge Cafe, 510 N Third Ave., Stayton. Bring your classic vehicles for coffee, breakfast.

Saturday

Aumsville Saturday Market

9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Porter-Boone Park, 1105 Main St. Applications for booth space at aumsville.us

Revival Youth Hangout

5 - 6:30 p.m., New Hope Community Church, 657 N Second Ave., Stayton. Youth of the area are welcome. Follow “Revival_Heartbeat” on Instagram and Tiktok. revivalheartbeat@gmail.com

Notices

School Supply Drive

Snow Peak Brewing is hosting a School Supply, Shoe & Sweatshirt Drive through Aug. 31. Slightly-worn or new shoes, neutral-colored sweatshirts and school supplies for pre-K through fifth grade students needed. Drop off donations in Stayton at Snow Peak Brewing, Kicks & Giggles Children’s Boutique, The Vault Fitness, Postal Connections or Third Avenue Eatery/Naked Cat Coffee. Donations support Stayton and Scio elementary classrooms.

Free Summer Lunch

Children younger than 18 can get a free lunch beginning July 5. Hot lunch is provided at Stayton Middle School, 1021 SE Shaff Road, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sack lunches are available at Stayton Community Center Park, 400 W Virginia St., 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Meals must be eaten on site. Runs through Aug. 11.

Tuesday, Aug. 1

Storytime in the Park

10:30 a.m., Community Center Park, 400 W. Virginia St., Stayton. Read, write, talk, sing and play. All ages. Free. Repeats Aug. 8. 503-769-3313

Stayton Lions Club

Noon, Covered Bridge Cafe, 510 N Third Ave., Stayton. New members welcome. Repeats Aug. 15. staytonlionsclub.org

Readers Cafe Part 2

1 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Come back to the Book Cafe to share thoughts about what you read last month, add a review to “Tasty Books,” get a sneak peak at new materials coming. Free. 503-769-3313

Sports Physical Clinic

3:30 - 6:30 p.m., Regis High, 550 W Regis St., Stayton. First-come, first-serve. $10, cash or check. Sponsored by Santiam Hospital & Clinics. santiamhospital.org

Stayton Parks and Rec Board

6 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. 503-769-3425

Fiercely Faithful

5:15 p.m., Stayton Seventh-Day Adventist, 610 Fern Ridge Road, Stayton. Free vacation bible school. Free dinner from 5:50 - 8:10 p.m. Runs through Aug.

5. On Aug. 5: 11 a.m. - 12:10 p.m. church followed by potluck. 503-979-2892

Sublimity National Night Out

5 - 8 p.m., Church Park, 375 E Main St. Join neighbors, Marion County sheriffs, Sublimity Fire for food, vendors and music. Rock-N-Roll Cowboys perform 6 - 8 p.m. City provides dinner. Bring lawn chairs/blankets. 503-769-5475

Lyons National Night Out

6 - 8 p.m., Lyons Fire Department, 1114 Main St. Meet local firefighters and police officers. Free hot dogs and chips; first-come, first-serve. 503-859-2410

Wednesday, Aug. 2

Chamber Business Network

8:15 a.m., Star Cinema, 250 N Third Ave., Stayton. Hosted by Skyline Video Production. Network building event for local business, non-profit professionals. Sponsored by Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. 503-769-3464

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. For Zoom invite and register, call 503-304-3432.

Free Laundry Night

5 - 7 p.m., La Esperanza Laundromat, 1174 N First Ave, Stayton. New Life Foursquare Church service for any individual or family working hard to get ahead. The church will pay for your load of laundry. You wash, dry and fold. Repeats Aug. 16.

Thursday, Aug. 3

Sports Physical Clinic

3:30 - 6:30 p.m., Cascade High, 10226 SE Marion Road, Turner. First-come, firstserve. $10, cash or check. Sponsored by Santiam Hospital & Clinics. santiamhospital.org

Lyons Summer Reading Program

3:30 p.m., Lyons City Hall, 449 Fifth St. Today: Find Your Animal Voice. Aug. 17: Stories in the Stars. Aug. 24: Journal and pencil topper making. All programs are at Lyons Public Library or Lyons City Hall. Free. 503-859-2366

Stayton Summer Reading Program

4 p.m., Community Center Park, 400 W Virginia St., Stayton. Laugh and be amazed with bilingual comedian Angel Ocasio. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313

Saturday, Aug. 5

Movie in the Park

8 p.m., Sublimity Church Park, 375 E Main St. Bring blankets and chairs. Today: Puss in Boots. Aug. 19: Sonic the Hedgehog 2. All ages. Free. Movie starts at dusk.

Movies in the Park

Dusk, Porter Boone Park, 1105 Main St., Aumsville. Bring lawn chair/blanket. Free.

Today: Tangled. Aug. 12: Encanto. Aug. 19: No movie. Aug. 26: Frozen. aumsville.us

Sunday, Aug. 6

Minty & T too Car Show

10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 1255 Wilco Road, Stayton. Car show memorializing Minty Schmid. Food trucks, music by Russ Strohmeyer, vendors, drawing. $20, cash only, car entry fee. Pre-register at https:// mintymemorialcarshow.eventbrite.com. Proceeds benefit Regis St. Mary.

Jackbox Party Games

6 - 7 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Play Jackbox Party Games on your smartphone or tablet or use one of the library’s devices. Teens. Free. 503-769-3313

Monday, Aug. 7

Santiam Artists Connection

10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Old School Community Center, 22057 Emma St., Lyons. Artists gather to paint and draw. Brings own supplies and projects. All levels welcome. Free; donations to Community Art Center accepted. santiamh2a.org

Stayton City Council

7 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. staytonoregon.gov

Tuesday, Aug. 8

Dementia Care Conversations

3 - 4 p.m. Zoom. Free group for unpaid caregivers providing support to a loved one living with dementia. Offered by Family Caregiver Support Program at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. To request a referral to group, contact Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 503-304-3420. Repeats Aug. 22.

Cascade School Board

7 p.m., Cascade District Office, 10226 SE Marion Road, Turner. Open to public. 503-749-8010, cascade.k12.or.us

Wednesday, Aug. 9

Chamber Business Network

8:15 a.m., TBA. Hosted by Copiers Northwest. Network building event for local business, non-profit professionals. Sponsored by Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. 503-769-3464.

RDS

Board Meeting

5 p.m., Beauchamp Building, 278 E High St., Stayton. Revitalize Downtown Stayton meeting. Open to public. 503-767-2317, downtownstayton.org

Santiam Heritage Foundation Board

6 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. Open to public. 503-768-8860

Thursday, Aug. 10

Doris’s Place Playgroups

10 - 11:30 a.m., Community Center Park, 400 W Virginia St., Stayton. Free opportunity to spend time with your children, socialize with other families and build support within your community. No registration needed. 503-769-1120

Summer Reading Celebration

11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Celebrate end of Summer Reading Program with picnic, upcycled fashion show, concert. Free. All ages. 503-769-3313

Mama´s Community Market

Noon - 4 p.m., Aumsville Pentecostal Church, 10153 Mill Creek Road. Food Pantry. Repeats Aug. 24. 971-710-5665 Aumsville Fire District

6:30 p.m., Aumsville Fire Station, 490 Church St. Open to public. 503-749-2894

Friday, Aug. 11

ACT on Radio

7 p.m., Spotlight Theater, 383 N Third Ave., Stayton. Spotlight Community Theater presents The Lone Ranger, an old-time radio recreation. $10 at spotlightct.com or at door. 503-420-9181

Lyons Movie Night

8:30 p.m., Lyons Fire Department, 1114 Main St. Lyons Volunteer Fire Association presents “Cars.” Movie starts at 9 p.m. Bring chairs/blankets. 503-859-2410

Saturday, Aug. 12

Hart Strong Poker Run

7:30 a.m., Hart Family Property, 9467 SE Stayton Road, Aumsville. All shapes and sizes of vehicles, motorcycles welcome. Rider out 8:30 a.m. Lunch at El Vaquero

BBQ. End location is the Hart property. Silent and live auctions. Buy-ins begin at $25. Register at hartstrong.square.site.

Flea Market

9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Santiam Valley Grange, 1140 Fifth St., Lyons. Crafts, collectibles. Lunch available to go and limited seating. Free admission, parking. 503-859-2161

SHS Class of 1978 Reunion

4 - 10 p.m., Santiam Golf Club, 8724 SE Golf Club Road, Aumsville. Stayton High class of 1978 45th reunion. Contact: Laurel Russell, 541-977-5959, or Sue HallamGoodman, 503-930-9916.

Sunday, Aug. 13

Covered Bridge Bicycle Tour

7 a.m., Linn County Fairgrounds, 3700 E Knox Butte Road, Albany. Explore rural roads in Linn County, and depending which option you choose, you’ll cross up to five historic covered bridges. Register at register.coveredbridgetour.org.

St. Boniface All-School Reunion

Noon, Church Park, 375 E Main St., Sublimity. All St. Boniface students welcome. Food cart. Bring chairs. janschott621@hotmail.com

Stayton High All-Class Reunion

Noon - 5 p.m., Pioneer Park, 450 N Seventh Ave., Stayton. All students, faculty and staff from Stayton and Regis high schools invited. Bring dish to share. $5 donation per person. RSVP on Facebook at “Stayton Union High School Class of 1978 Multi Class Picnic,” or email at cowgirlup1014u2@gmail.com.

Brown House Tour

Noon - 2 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. Tour the historic Charles and Martha Brown House. $5/person. Children under 18 are free. For a special reserved guided tour, call 503-769-8860.

Monday, Aug. 14

Homeless Task Force

6 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. 503-769-3425

Sublimity City Council

6 p.m., Sublimity City Hall, 245 NW Johnson. Open to public. 503-769-5475

Aumsville Planning Commission

7 p.m., Aumsville Community Center, 555 Main St. Open to the public. 503-749-2030

Tuesday, Aug. 15

North Santiam Watershed Council

6 p.m. Zoom. Open to public. Zoom link info.: 503-930-8202 or council@northsantiam.org.

Wednesday, Aug. 16

Chamber Business Network

8:15 a.m., Berry Tree Acres, 7828 SE Albus Road, Aumsville. Network building event for local business, non-profit professionals. Sponsored by Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. 503-769-3464

Thursday, Aug. 17

Mari-Linn PTA Garage Sale

9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Mari-Linn School, 641 Fifth St., Lyons. All proceeds benefit students and teachers. Repeats Aug. 18-19.

Rollin’ to Corn Fest

5 - 8 p.m., Mill Creek Park, 1110 Main St., Aumsville. Free roller skating. Inline and quad skates, helmets and protective gear available. 503-749-2030, aumsville.us

NSSD Board

6 p.m., District Office, 1155 N First Ave., Stayton. North Santiam School District board meeting. Open to public. 503-769-6924

Friday, Aug. 18

Music on Main

5:30 p.m., G3 Pizza & Burgers, 325 Main St., Aumsville. Free, family friendly Corn Fest kick-off concert. Nashville recording artist Jason Cross and Fam Jam Band perform. Food, drink available for purchase.

Saturday, Aug. 19

Lyons City-wide Garage Sales

All day. To register a sale and have it listed on the map, contact Lyons City Hall by Aug. 15. Garage sale permits are not required. 503-859-2167, cityoflyons@ wavecable.com

Firefighters Breakfast

7 - 10 a.m., Aumsville Fire Department, 490 Church St. Aumsville Rural Fire Protection District personnel cook up breakfast for the community. Benefits volunteer firefighter activities including equipment and supplies. 503-749-2894, aumsvillefire.org

Lyons Firefighters Car Show

9 a.m. - 2:15 p.m., Lyons Fire Department, 1114 Main St. 18th annual car show with bake sale, bazaar booths, 50/50 drawing, Fastest Fireman contest. To register for car show or to be a vendor, visit lyonsrfd.org. 503-859-2410

Aumsville Corn Festival

9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Porter-Boone Park, 1105 Main St., Aumsville. Corn sales begin; $5/ dozen. Parade winds down Main Street at 11 a.m. Hot buttered corn is available noon - 6 p.m. Family games run 1 - 5 p.m. Parking is available at Mill Creek Park. Only ADA parking at Porter-Boone. 503-749-2030, aumsville.us

Bethel Clothing Closet

10 a.m. - noon, Bethel Baptist Church, 645 Cleveland St., Aumsville. Clothing from newborn to 2x. Free. 503-749-2128

Joseph’s Storehouse of Hope

11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Mari-Linn School, 641 Fifth St., Lyons. Food boxes. 503-881-9846

Monday, Aug. 21

Stayton City Council

7 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-769-3425, staytonoregon.gov

Tuesday, Aug. 22

Lyons City Council

6:30 p.m., Lyons City Hall, 449 Fifth St. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-859-2167, cityoflyons.org

Wednesday, Aug. 23

Chamber Business Network

8:15 a.m., Aumsville Elementary, 572 N 11th Ave. Hosted by Family Building Blocks. Network building event for local business, non-profit professionals. Sponsored by Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. 503-769-3464.

Thursday, Aug. 24

Doris’s Place Playgroups

10 - 11:30 a.m., Santiam Chapel, 440 Fifth St., Lyons. Spend time with your children, socialize with other families, build support. No registration. Free. 503-769-1120

Saturday, Aug. 26

Pancake Breakfast

8 - 10 a.m., Santiam Valley Grange, 1140 Fifth St., Lyons. Eggs, ham, biscuits & gravy, pancakes, coffee, OJ. $6. 503-859-2161

Golf for Teens

8:30 a.m., Santiam Golf Club, 8724 SE Golf Club Road, Aumsville. Fourth annual golf benefit for Santiam Teen Center in Stayton. Golf, luncheon, drawings and awards. Register at https://golf-for-teens. perfectgolfevent.com.

Monday, Aug. 28

Doris’s Place Playgroups

2 - 3:30 p.m., Wildwood Splash Park, 700 N Fifth St., Aumsville. Free opportunity to spend time with your children, socialize with other families and build support within your community. No registration needed. 503-769-1120

Sublimity Planning Commission

4:30 p.m., Sublimity City Hall, 245 NW Johnson St. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-769-5475, cityofsubllmity.org

Stayton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to the public. Agenda available. 503-769-3425, staytonoregon.gov

Aumsville Planning Commission

7 p.m., Chester Bridges Memorial Community Center, 555 Main St., Aumsville. Open to the public. Agenda available. 503-749-2030

Lyons Fire District Board

7 p.m., Lyons Fire Station, 1114 Main St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-859-2410, lyonsrfd.org

Stayton Fire District

7 p.m.,. Stayton Fire Station, 1988 W Ida St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-769-2601, staytonfire.org

Wednesday, Aug. 30

Chamber Business Network

8:15 a.m., Snow Peak Brewing, 280 E Water St., Stayton. Hosted by Bend Your Nutrition. Network building event for local business, non-profit professionals. Sponsored by Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. 503-769-3464.

Book Discussion for Adults

4 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Discuss Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult. Tea and treats provided. Free. 503-769-3313

“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”

Something to Think About

Wildfire defense 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

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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

Tom E. Holm passed away at his home in Aumsville, Oregon June 10, 2023.

Tom was born Sept. 12, 1941 to Velm and Clarence Holm in Union Mills, Indiana. He was the youngest of six children. Tom was always happy and loved people. He loved sports, playing football, basketball and baseball all through his school years. Tom graduated from La Porte High School in 1960. He married Betty Brown, his high school sweetheart, on Feb. 23, 1963. They had two children: son Tim, now deceased, and daughter Beth Blake of Keizer, Oregon.

After college Tom worked in management for 27 years at Phillips Industries in Elkhart, Indiana and Stayton, Oregon. After retirement Tom worked at Lowe’s in the paint department.

Tom was an amazing craftsman and could build anything. His hobbies included golf, playing the piano, singing, dancing and adoring and caring for his three grandchildren: Kimberly of Tigard, Oregon; Cabe at OSU; and Kyle of McMinnville, Oregon.

Three of his siblings preceded him in death: sister, Clara, and brothers, Bob and Don. In addition to his daughter and grandchildren he is survived by his sister, Jan, and brother, Jim, both of Michigan City, Indiana.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Serving the family, North Santiam Funeral Service, Stayton.

Rachel Marie Thorpe

Jan. 23, 1986 – July 9, 2023

It is with regret and much love that Rachel’s family and friends announce her passing. Her long suffering is no more. She leaves her children, Owen and Everly; niece, Madelynn Boone; sister, Josie; mother, Janice; several cousins and two aunts in Michigan. She was a resident of Stayton.

A celebration of life is to take place at her beloved ocean; announcement will be at a later date. Serving the family, North Santiam Funeral Service – Stayton.

Submissions Welcomed: We appreciate the opportuity to share life’s Passages with our readers. If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com.

Ripple effect Mike Long Youth Benefit Golf Tourney set for Sept. 16

By James Day

You get the sense that this year’s Youth Benefit Golf Tournament is going to be the best ever. Yes, long-time community leader and tournament co-founder Mike Long died in March and his absence is being felt. But the legion of family, friends and community supporters who get involved every year seem determined to carry on. Perhaps they are even more determined than before.

The tournament, fittingly, has been renamed the Mike Long Youth Benefit Golf Tournament, and to fulfill its mission of providing scholarships for students in the Santiam Canyon area, organizers are seeking players, volunteers, donors and sponsors for the Sept. 16 event at Mallard Creek Golf Course in Lebanon. To register to play or for more information about becoming a sponsor or a donor, go to ybgolf.com or call 503-949-1252.

The tournament – started in 2001 by Long and his wife Jan with the goal of raising

$500 for one scholarship – passed the $300,000 mark with last year’s event. Tournament proceeds paid for $18,500 in scholarships for 13 high school seniors and kicked in another $17,000 for seven local youth organizations.

How did all this happen?

Well, the origin story that Mike often told goes something like this: “This all started when Jan looked at me one day and said, ‘We’ve got to do something for the kids in this town.’” With a grin he’d continue, “I knew that meant I had to do something and the only thing I knew to do was organize a golf tournament. So, we did.”

And others joined the challenge.

“It always was such an honor to work with Mike and Jan on this event,” said long-time friend, golfer and tournament volunteer

Sandy Lyness, a real estate broker in Mill City.

“We miss Mike terribly and are so grateful for all of the work he did to make this tournament a success and provide for the young people of this community. We are all committed to continue working with Jan and the rest of the family to ensure his legacy lives on.”

Mark Tunstill, the general manager at Mallard Creek, knows he has a special event on his hands.

“As a golf professional, I have worked with hundreds of tournament organizers, committees, and many wonderful people,” Tunstill said. “But I’m telling you, there is something about the way Mike and Jan run their event that is different, and you have to experience it to really understand.

“They have created a family culture

that makes everyone feel welcome and important. Operationally, their organization and efforts provide an atmosphere that the players love. Simply put, they are the kind of people you want to know.”

And the ripples continue to spread, said Todd Miller, superintendent of the Santiam Canyon School District.

“The Youth Benefit Golf Tournament plays a significant role in enriching and expanding the opportunities for youth in the Santiam Canyon,” Miller said. “Scholarship recipients have gone on to post-secondary success, due in part to the support of this community event. These students know that they are surrounded by a community that cares for them.

"Also, the tournament has raised money to enrich rural youth opportunities in the arts, theater, athletics, outdoors, robotics and other activities. The enjoyment of this event is only rivaled by the outcomes it has for area youth.”

Mike Long SUBMITTED PHOTO

Camping in the canopy

By James Day

The tree climbing operation at Silver Falls State Park has expanded its offerings and now features tree camping.

Leo Roden-Fischer, the entrepreneur who founded Tree Climbing at Silver Falls two years ago, notes “our half-day tree climbing adventures are amazing and unforgettable like people say in our 5-star reviews, but tree camping is on an entirely different level. Once you experience this adventure you will understand the rave reviews of our experiences and why tree camping probably deserves the creation of a sixth star.

“From a 300-foot high tree, the world looks very different, like an alien planet. The perspective from some of the largest trees in the world will open your eyes to see the forest and wildlife in new and powerful ways.”

Rosen-Fischer just unveiled the camping option a month or so ago and says that “numbers are increasing. Our reservations are running at less than a hotel but more than some airbnbs.”

The trip is not cheap, at $699 for two, but included in that fee are all of the gear and training and a guide who will be up in the trees with you overnight. Dinner, breakfast and guide gratuities are extra. You must be seven years or older to participate. Campers are encouraged to bring extra layers of clothing and to be aware that weather conditions, particularly high winds, can lead to cancellations. Groups of up to 40 can be accommodated and the camping operation runs through Sept. 30. See www. treeclimbingatsilverfalls.com for more information or to book a trip.

Rosen-Fischer’s tree-climbing operation required a special commercial-use permit from Oregon State Parks and a second permit was needed for the camping piece. Such

Overnight tree stays offered at Silver Falls

commercial uses are not uncommon in state parks, with spokesperson Stefanie Knowlton noting the marina at Cove Palisades and the historic hotel at Frenchglen also are operating with commercial use permits.

Rosen-Fischer’s wide range of tree-climbing options continue, including a special sunset climb, starting at about $150.

Above: A pair of campers are shown setting up camp in a Douglas fir tree, a new adventure offered by Tree Climbing at Silver Falls.

Right: A sleeping platform attached to a tree. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Equestrian roundup Cascade’s Bruce wins a state championship

Riders from Cascade and Stayton both turned in strong performances at the Oregon High School Equestrian Teams state meet, held May 11-14 at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond.

Cascade finished tenth in the medium team competition with 82 points, while Stayton was 17th with 23.

Shayla Bruce was the lone state champion from the two schools, taking first in driving, with teammate Grace McNichols finishing third. Tayler Kamm was seventh in trail equitation and 19th in showmanship, while McKenna Buckendorf was 11th in trail equitation, McNichols was 13th in saddle seat equitation and Milano Meduri was 18th in pole bending. In addition, the team of Bruce, Kamm, McNichols and Carley Jenkins of Salem Academy took fifth in the in-hand obstacle relay.

Lauren Nagle was the top performer for Stayton, taking seventh in hunt seat over fences, ninth in saddle seat equitation and 16th in dressage. In the team events

Nagle, Naomi Gomoli, Amelya Cronin and Gwen Cronin took 20th in the in-hand obstacle relay and Gomoli and Amelya Cronin were 24th in working pairs.

The top five finishers in Oregon moved on to the Pacific Northwest Invitational June14-16 at Moses Lake, Washington. Also invited were the top five in the Washington state meet. McNichols was third and Bruce fourth in driving, while the team of Bruce, McNichols, Kamm and Meduri finished seventh in the in-hand obstacle relay.

Football: The opening of fall camp is just around the corner and the schedules have been filling up. Here are some key dates for the local schools. Stayton opens Friday, Sept. 1 at Molalla and plays its home opener on Sept. 8 vs. Gladstone/Riverdale. The rivalry game against Cascade is on Friday, Oct. 27 at Federico Field in Turner. Cascade, meanwhile, plays road warrior to open the season. The Cougars, under new coach Shane Hedrick, open Saturday, Sept. 2 at Baker and play at Marshfield and Sweet Home the next two weeks before the Sept. 22 home opener vs. Henley. Regis, which is once again playing nine-man in Class 2A, opens Sept. 1 at home against Gaston. The Rams close the regular season Thursday, Oct. 26 at home vs. Santiam.

Cascade: Two members of the Cougar family were honored at the Oregon Athletic Coaches Association banquet May 27 at Autzen Stadium. Senior volleyball standout Lucretia Benolken, who led Cascade to a runner-up finish in 2022 after a Class 4A state title in 2021, was one of three recipients of the Coach Dave Johnson scholarship. Benolken receives $1,000 for her first year of college and is eligible for an additional $1,500 her second year should she meet certain criteria. The scholarship is named for former Olympic decathlon bronze medalist Dave Johnson, who has worked

as a teacher, coach, motivational speaker and athletic administrator in the midvalley throughout his post competition career. Benolken plans to play sand volleyball at Southern Oregon University. Meanwhile, incoming Central football coach Shane Hedrick was honored by the OACA for 35 years of coaching service.

Correction: In my July 1 column I mistakenly left out Noah Koenig of Regis from the list of Class 2A all-state baseball honorees. Koenig was named third-team catcher after a senior season in which he led all state classifications with 39 stolen bases, batted .500 and threw out 14 runners on the bases. The Rams finished 17-10 overall and 12-6 in Class 2A-1A’s Special District 3.

OSAA Cup: Cascade finished 12th in Class 4A in the annual OSAA Cup all-sports competition that also includes academic and sportsmanship. The Cougars received 2,172.9 points. Stayton, meanwhile, took 15th with 2,107.9. Scappoose won the Cup for 4A with 3,215. Regis was 14th with 1,317.5 in the Class 2A competition that was won by Kennedy (2,100). Regis won the 2A category a year ago.

Hospital Fun Runs: Austin Coblentz, 17, won the Santiam Hospital 10-kilometer event in 42:31.5 on Saturday, June 10. Katie Metzger, 33, was the top female finisher in 48:41.2. Brandon Wagar, 13, of Stayton, won the 5K in 18:09.0, with Mary Coordt, 53, the fastest woman in 22:57.4. Jeremiah Tate, 15, was the 3K champion in 16:11.2, and nine-year-old Brynn Johnson the fastest female in the field in 17:56.9. More than 240 runners

participated.

Fourth of July Runs: Approximately 280 runners and walkers participated in the 4th of July events in Stayton. Brandon Wagar, 13, of Stayton, led the way in the 5K trail run in 18:59.1, with tenth-place Stephanie Robins, 38, of Salem, the first woman in 22:11.5. Zach Day Lewis, 34, won the 10K trail event in 38:05.4, with 13th-place Heidi Cox, 45, of Stayton, the top woman runner in 49:59.5. Mike Rosling, 45, of Corvallis won the 3K run in 10:21.8, followed by Ella Rosling, 14, of Corvallis, in 12:08.8. Steve Kollars, 64, of Dallas, took the 3K run-walk in 12:42.8, followed by fourth-place E. Aquinaga, 9, of Stayton, in 22:42.8, the top female finisher.

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.

A heart full of thanks

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.

A life-saving surprise

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.

Place your ad in Marketplace 503-769-9525

GENERAL

We may owe you money. If you were a member of Stayton Cooperative Telephone Company receiving our services during the years 2000 and/or 2001, SCTC may owe you money. The Board of Directors of SCTC has authorized the forfeiture of all patronage distributions that have remained unclaimed for more than four years after approval of distribution. The date of forfeiture is April 13, 2024. Members must respond prior to that date to receive monies owed. Notices were mailed to the last known addresses on November 11, 2020 to all members entitled to a distribution. SCTC is making every possible effort to find those members that did not respond to previous notifications. SCTC has posted a complete list of members, as they appear on our records, on our website at https://www.sctcweb.com/unclaimed-checks/ . You can also visit our office at 502 N 2nd Ave in Stayton. Our business hours are M-F from 9:00 am until 5:00pm. If your name, or someone you know, appears on the list and payment has not been received, contact us immediately. You can email patronage@sctcweb.com, leave a message on our patronage hotline at 503 769-2724, or send a letter to SCTC, Attention: Patronage, PO Box 477, Stayton OR 97383.

LOOKING FOR SILVERTON

HIGH 1971 CLASSMATE I’m looking for John Withers from the Scotts Mills area, going to Silverton Union HS 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

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