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For appointments, call 971-360-9812.
Learn more at legacyhealth.org/ortho Legacy Medical Group –O rthopedics and Sports Medicine
Woodburn location: 1475 Mt. Hood Ave. Woodburn, OR 97071
Keizer location:
Silverton location: 452 Welch St. Silverton, OR 97381
5685 Inland Shores Way North Keizer, OR 97303
Trivia Bee. COURTESY SARAH WALLING
Lunaria Gallery
By Melissa Wagoner
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Lunaria Gallery in Silverton.
“It began in 1995. Myself and four other people, we secured the business,” painter Theresa Sharrar, said. “There had been a group of us who had been together in the Arts Association, and we secured a spot at the Wild Iris Cafe – where O’Brien’s was and now the title company [AmeriTitle] is.”
Hosted in a tiny nine foot by 12-foot space in the front of the café, the gallery opened as a co-operative (one of the first in Oregon) with founding members Sharrar, Ann Altman, Teresa Burgett, Antonia Jenkins, and Shannon Rice – at the helm.
“Back then things were just so simple because we had just started it,” Sharrar said, recalling the events the women initiated as a way of gaining public interest and support. “We had hat fashion shows where we all created a hat, and we started First Friday.”
They also coined the gallery’s name during
a meeting held at Ann Altman’s house.
“The word ‘luna’ came up and people played around with it. Then somebody said, ‘Lunaria…’ We felt like it was connected with the moon – which has to do with creativity – and with money.”
Because lunaria is another name for the “money plant.”
It was clearly an auspicious name because within a brief time the gallery outgrew its first space, moving first to the storefront that now houses Daylight Vintage, then to the spot that is currently the Bella Casa Real Estate Agency.
“Word got around and people just happened to drop in. We were getting people from all over the world,” Sharrar remembered. “Then we left that place because this place opened up.”
Located at 113 N. Water St., the new gallery attracted more tourists than the previous locations and because of its size and layout it enabled the co-operative to grow to its current membership of 27.
First Friday party
Gallery opening and reception
Lunaria, 113 N. Water St., Silverton Friday, March 7. 6 to 8 p.m.
Recognition ceremony
Leaf and Vine, 107 N. Water St. 7 p.m.
www.lunariagallery.com
that really helped.”
“Then the City helped during COVID,” porcelain artist and member Lee Jacobson added.
That kind of community support has meant, 22 years after moving into its current home, the Lunaria Gallery is not only surviving, it’s thriving.
“Our community has really supported us,” Sharrar said of Lunaria’s longevity.
“When we had the economic dive in 2008 people decided to stop shopping in Salem for Christmas and came to us instead and
“Being a co-op helps. We pay [monthly membership dues] and we can fluctuate with the economy,” fiber artist and member Mary Goodson explained. But even more importantly, “The original
Lunaria Gallery member-artists Lori L. Rodrigues, Mary Goodson, (co-founder) Theresa Sharrar, and Lee Jacobson. MELISSA WAGONER
statement for the gallery was helping and being a part of the community.”
Over the years, as Silverton has supported Lunaria, Lunaria has supported the community in return by furthering local artists, promoting the arts, donating artwork to fundraisers and even offering mentorships to high school students.
“Lee brought that on board,” Sharrar said, recalling the SHS student who approached the artist several years ago, asking for the opportunity to gain experience – a request that inspired the institution of a fourmonth internship program.
“Part of our mission is the education of arts,” Sharrar said of the addition, which has thus far succeeded in furthering the career of at least one artist.
And it’s just one way Lunaria is planning for the future.
“We’re trying, as we age, to bring in younger members,” Goodson said. So far, they have been successful. “We have people vying each month.”
When the membership discovered that this would be the gallery’s 30th year, it was decided that the celebration would honor the past, present and future as well.
“We’re inviting all of our members to celebrate,” Sharrar said, describing the gallery opening and reception, which will be free and open to the public on First Friday, March 7, 6 to 8 p.m. “And the first five [members] will be our featured artists.”
Catered by Little Leaf Café, with wine from The Farm on Golden Hill and Muddy Paws Vineyard, the celebration will take place in both the Lunaria Gallery and in the neighboring Leaf and Vine Wine Lounge – with a special recognition ceremony taking place in that space at 7 p.m.
“We thought, let’s throw ourselves a party,” Jacobson said. “Because we’re not just a business, we’re an integral part of the community.”
Trivia Bee buzz supports numerous projects
“Our Trivia Bee puts the ‘fun’ in ‘fundraising!’” Sarah Walling, Silverton Kiwanis Club President and event co-chair, said. The club’s largest annual fundraiser, the Trivia Bee is set for 6 p.m. Friday, March 14 at the First Christian Church in Silverton.
“This is our primary fundraiser that supports all of our projects…” Walling said. The club sponsors the Pet Parade, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Every Child A Swimmer, Free Fish Day, scholarships, the Community Picnic, Letters to Santa, the Key Club, and makes donations to other local organizations.
“Many of our projects have become community traditions that span decades. It’s so cool to hear adults talk about experiencing them as children and what it meant to them now.”
In its third year, the Trivia Bee and Wine and Dessert Auction, is part competition, part audience participation.
“We’ve set up the event so that there are numerous opportunities for teams to win throughout the night. It’s not all
Kiwanis Trivia Bee
First Christian Church
402 N. First St., Silverton March 14, 6 p.m.
Tickets $25 in advance or at door Team signup: silvertonkiwanis.org
about who ends up with the most points at the very end – though everyone is competing for the Bee Trophy…” Instead, it is about having a good time, whether as a competitor or part of the hive.
“We definitely want to keep the hive engaged…” Walling said, listing Hive Mind Trivia (a game played for dessert prizes), voting for the Best Costume contest, and bidding on wine and dessert in the auctions as ways spectators get in on the buzz.
“Teams and repeat audience members continue to tell us how much they enjoy the cheer, camaraderie, and brainbenders they experience throughout the night,” she said.
– Melissa Wagoner
at Barlow & Monte Cristo Roads.
Ex-Silverton
captain disciplined by state
A former Silverton Police captain has had his public safety certification revoked for ten years by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training Board (DPSST).
Joshua Boatner, who served on the Silverton force from 2009 to 2023, was judged by the DPPST to have intentionally used confidential information about others in an effort to harm them and created an offensive work environment by using derogatory nicknames, racially discriminating accents and mocking voice inflections.
The Silverton Police Department began investigating allegations in December 2022. Boatner resigned from the force on Feb. 3, 2023. The DPSST released its report and license revocation Jan. 23.
“We are working hard as a department to move forward in a very positive direction,” Chief Todd Engstrom said. He added that the conduct that Boatner displayed only occurred inside the department and did not involve residents or his actions on service calls.
– James Day
Wrongful death
Jeutten suit challenged over timing
By Stephen Floyd
Marion County and the family of homicide victim Travis Jeutten are sparring in court over whether or not a wrongful death lawsuit has exceeded a statute of limitations.
On Jan. 10, the county filed a motion in Marion County Circuit Court to dismiss a $3.4 million suit brought by Juetten’s estate on Dec. 2, 2024.
April 30, 2024. According to the suit, lat that time plaintiffs met with detectives and prosecutors and were told Ray would have been indicted for murder if he were still alive. Plaintiffs then learned of Ray’s zerotolerance probation and the county’s alleged negligence.
For Legal Matters updates visit ourtownlive.com. Current stories:
• A sex offender has been sent back to prison after pleading guilty to luring a minor and furnishing intoxicants.
• A local man was sentenced to probation after pleading guilty to
threatening a woman with a knife.
• A Silverton man was sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to vehicle theft, robbery and weapon possession.
• A Scotts Mills woman was charged with robbery and drug possession after allegedly fighting with a store worker.
The suit said, when Juetten was stabbed to death Aug. 13, 2021 in his Silvertonarea home, alleged killer Cody Michael Ray was under zero-tolerance probation for a local firearm conviction. It alleges the county knowingly allowed Ray to remain on probation despite multiple documented violations prior to the murder.
Ray, 30, of Salem, was not suspected of the killing until after he committed suicide Sept. 28, 2021, according to the suit.
The county’s motion argued state law clearly defines the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims as three years from the date of an alleged incident. The motion said, even if negligence did lead to Juettens’ death, the court no longer has authority to decide the matter since the suit wasn’t filed by Aug. 13, 2024.
The county denied any negligence and said it is prepared to offer evidence to this effect if the suit is allowed to proceed.
On Feb. 5, plaintiffs filed opposing the county, arguing different limitations apply to public agencies under the Oregon Tort Claims Act. OTCA supersedes other statutes, they said, and allows a three year deadline from the date an alleged offense was discovered. In this case that was on
Their filing argued it would be “absurd and unjust” for the bereaved to have only threeand-a-half months to file a suit and that this could not have been what lawmakers intended.
The county filed a rebuttal Feb. 18 renewing its request for dismissal, saying plaintiffs’ arguments were “legally incorrect.”
The county said it is not pigeonholed by OTCA and that case law allows outside statutes to apply. The county also argued three-and-a-half months was ample time for plaintiffs to file a suit and, if the deadline lapsed, this was plaintiffs’ failure.
The county also argued Juetten’s wife, Jamilyn Juetten, should have been included in the original suit as a “necessary party” based on recent case law. Jamilyn Juetten survived the attack with serious injuries. She filed an $8 million suit against the county Dec. 30, 2024, based on the same underlying allegations. The county said the first suit should be dismissed unless Jamilyn Juetten is added as a party. The plaintiffs’ Feb. 5 filing said they do not object to consolidating the two cases.
As of press deadline, no hearings were set to consider the county’s motions.
Nursing center End of an era
By James Day
The Benedictine Nursing Center in Mount Angel has been transferred by corporate parent Providence to new owners.
The Ensign Group took control of the Nursing Center and its Orchard House assisted living facility as of midnight Feb. 28. Benedictine Nursing Center officials said the new owners have retained all of the approximately 150 employees.
David Horn, administrator for the Nursing Center, said the first weekend under new ownership likely will be a bit hectic.
“We are doing everything we can to make us successful on day one (of the transition),” Horn said. “I think we’re pretty special here. The average length of service of employees is 6 to 7 years. People here are committed to making a difference in the community.”
Horn praised The Ensign Group, noting that “they are working the long game. They have a strong commitment to people, and loving one another is a core value.”
No terms were announced on the deal, which includes about 10 other skilled nursing and assisted living care ministries in the Pacific Northwest. The Mt. Angel facilities are the lone Oregon pieces.
In a press release Providence officials noted that the Ensign transition “will help to ensure continued access to care at a time when nursing homes across the country are struggling to keep up with persistent challenges, including a national shortage of caregivers, the rising cost of pharmaceuticals, supplies and equipment, and reimbursement from payers that has not kept up with inflation.”
One piece of the Benedictine Nursing Center experience that also will be ending is its foundation, which has raised more than a million dollars in the past 30 years in an effort to improve the patient and employee experience at the Nursing Center.
Fred Vandecoevering, who chairs the foundation board, credited the original Benedictine Sisters with providing the blueprint for the work of the foundation.
“Their background was in service and hospitality,” he said. “They saw the need. That extra bit of care laid the foundation for the excellence that exists here today.”
Initiatives paid for by the foundation include a therapeutic garden and landscaping, a renovated staff lounge and upgraded art for the walls of the center. Occasionally the foundation would assist if a patient needed a piece of equipment that was above and beyond what the medical insurance would support, said Mary Edmonds, corporate and foundation relations officer.
Officials are disbursing the remaining funds held by the foundation. Gifts are planned for the Abbey Foundation of Oregon, Silverton Area Community Aid, the Mt. Angel Senior Center and Willamette Vital Health.
“One of the silver linings in this transition,” Edmonds said, “is being able to give funds to groups that will continue working in the community. That’s pretty great.”
Foundation officials also said that they plan to pay the difference between the benefits employees received under Providence and from Ensign for a year.
$1,295,000
Custom home 5 bed, 2 ba. 2562 sq. st. Hardwood floors, black walnut kitchen counters.Open floor plan. Barn, shop, & greenhouse. Timber, nestled on 31.320 acres, Scotts Mills. MLS#825220
$939,000
Classic farmhouse in the woods. 40.74 acres. Pasture, timber. Borders BLM. 24x48 shop on slab. 24x36 Equipment Bldg. Seller financing available! 20739 Hazelnut Ridge Rd. NE, Scotts Mills. MLS#823491
$160,000 Immaculate home, 2 bd, 2b. wood flooring, granite countertops in the kitchen, relaxing, private backyard. Buyers must be approved by community park management. 3450 Hidden View Ln. NE, Salem. MLS#823285
$475,000 4.650 acres zoned EFU. Ideal for agriculture development. High traffic location. Seller financing available. Monitor Rd., Silverton. MLS#820110
Price Reduced! $398,000 0.45 ac. Beautiful Santiam River frontage. Fisherman’s Paradise. 1 bd., 1 ba. 39 ft. trailer and bunk house. 10x12 shop, & 10x10 Bldg on slab. 40474 Shoreline Dr., Lyons. MLS#814406
$300,000 Rosemary Way lots: 601, 605 & 611 MLS#810425; 615, 619 & 623 MLS#810404. Builder, Developer! Located in Monitor Road Estates. These lots will require wetland remediation. Buyer must have a development plan.
$299,000 Creek frontage on 3.99 acres. Bareland. Ideal for recreational use. Seller will carry a contract. Off of Crooked Finger Rd., Scotts Mills. MLS#822303
Something to Think About Q & A panel
By Melissa Wagoner
Christy Cordova has always thought of herself as a supportive parent and an LGBTQ+ ally, but when she learned that both of her children were “on the rainbow spectrum” she still had a few questions.
“We’d always been an ally family,” Cordova said. “But when my son came out at 19, I asked him, ‘What would be a resource?’”
His answer was PFLAG – a national organization founded in 1973 by a mother and her gay son to support, educate and advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community, their friends and family members.
“There are a lot of parents who have questions…” Cordova said. “I hear a lot about pronouns and getting used to them. I think everybody – whether they’re a friend or family member – has feelings and it’s good to have a safe place for support.”
PFLAG aims to dispel myths at Silver Falls Library
PFLAG Community Q & A
Silver Falls Library, 410 S. Water St. Thursday, March 13, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Open to the public.
Initially joining a chapter in LaGrande (where Cordova lived at the time)
she went on to join another branch in Pendleton and then, when she and her family moved to Silverton six and a half years ago, to help start a chapter here.
“There were little coffee table groups that wanted to make a difference,” she recalled.
But it took the work of three women – Cordova, Lori McLaughlin and Lisa Joyce – to make the dream a reality in May 2024.
“We got everything in place just before Pride Day last year,” Cordova said.
Timothy L Yount
Then in August, at the invitation of the supportive community group, Silverton Progressives, members of PFLAG announced their presence by walking in the Homer Davenport Parade.
“The resistance has been small,” Cordova said of the community reaction thus far to the addition of a local chapter, “but it solidifies that we are needed.”
And the membership numbers demonstrate that as well, with an estimated 25 to 30 members paying the annual family membership fee of $30 and attending monthly meetings.
“[Meetings are] always safe and confidential,” Cordova said. “Because I think a lot of people don’t feel safe being outed, especially right now in such a volatile atmosphere. We have several trans and non-binary members, and their safety is paramount.”
Which is why, when Cordova initially asked the PFLAG membership to
Daniel Hailey
consider holding a public question and answer panel at the Silver Falls Library, there was some initial hesitation.
“But there’s a lot of misinformation about us,” Cordova said. “And I’ve been targeted myself.”
And so, with the goal in mind of increasing the public’s understanding and hopefully ignite compassion – the idea eventually gained favor.
“We’re welcoming people to come in… get to know us,” Cordova said of the event. It will be at the Silver Falls Library on Thursday, March 13, 6 to 7:30 p.m. and will feature a panel of PFLAG board members who will answer questions honestly and without judgment.
“Because we’re here to educate,” Cordova pointed out.
“So, please be compassionate and get to know us before you condemn us. We want to be respected and safe like everyone else. We need your support.”
Frequent Addresses
Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St. Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton Silver Falls Library, 410 S Water St. Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. Silverton Community Center/Council Chambers, 410 N Water St. Weekly Events
Monday
Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St. Seniors 50 and older. Daily, weekly, monthly events. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tuesday - Saturday. Volunteers needed. 503-845-6998
Meals on Wheels Lunch, 11:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. $3 suggested donation. Make reservations three days in advance by calling 503-873-6906. Repeats Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Silverton Recovery AA, noon - 1 p.m., 302 N Water St. Seven days a week. Scotts Mills Food Boxes, 4 - 6 p.m., Scotts Mills Community Center, 298 Fourth St. Residents in Scotts Mills/Butte Creek/Monitor rural areas welcome. Food donations needed. Niki, 503-873-5059
Free Monday Dinner, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Indoor, sit-down dinner. To-go meals also available. All are welcome. Free. 503-873-5446, oakstchurch@gmail.com
Boy Scouts Troop 7485, 7 - 8:30 p.m., St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, 211 W Center St., Silverton. Dave Tacker, 760-644-3147, dave.tacker@gmail.com
Tuesday
Bible Study, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. All welcome. 503-873-6620
APPY Hour, noon - 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Technical assistance for electronics. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Silverton Mainstay, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. Community space and activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Repeats Thursdays. silvertonmainstay.org Explorer’s Lab, 4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. This month is all about money. Snacks. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040
SACA Food Pantry, 3 - 6 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org
Cub Scout Pack 485, 6:30 p.m., Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. Boys and girls in kindergarten - fifth grade. Elisha Kirsch, 503-507-6087
Growing Awareness, Nurturing
Compassion, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Zoom. Secular presentation promoting mindfulness. No experience needed. Invitation for virtual gathering: compassionatepresence@yahoo. com. 971-218-6641
Wednesday
Silverton Business Group, 8 a.m., Silver Falls Brewery, 207 Jersey St., Silverton. Networking meeting of the Silverton business community hosted by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. Everyone welcome. silvertonchamber.org
Quilters Group, 9 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com
Family Storytime & Indoor Playtime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create art with tempera paint followed by indoor playtime. Ages 2 - 5 w/adult. 971-370-5040
Mission Benedict Food Pantry, 1 - 4 p.m., St. Joseph Shelter, 925 S Main St., Mt. Angel.
Repeats Friday. 503-873-7645
Silver Chips Woodcarving Sessions, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. All skill levels. 503-873-7645
Mission of Hope Food Pantry, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. 503-873-7353
Thursday
Community Coffee, 7 - 9 a.m., Scotts Mills Community Center, 298 Fourth St. Free. Yoga, 9 a.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Open to all. Sheila, 503-409-4498
Thursday Painters, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton Arts Association. Join other artists for open studio time. All kinds of art forms are welcome. Free. 503-873-2480
TOPS (Take Pounds Off Sensibly), 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St., Silverton. Weight loss with support, encouragement. First meeting free. Monthly dues $4. All welcome. David, 503-501-9824
Friday
Toastmaster Club, 7:30 a.m., Zoom. Increase your listening skills, speaking, thinking and evaluating. Contact tmcommunicators@gmail.com for Zoom link.
Mt. Angel Model Railroad, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Depot, 90 W College St., Mt. Angel. Lionel (O-gauge), HO-gauge, N-gauge model layouts on display. All ages. Free. Silvertones Community Singers, 10:30 a.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 Main St., Silverton. Anyone who loves to sing is welcome. Tomi, 503-873-2033
Saturday
Silverton Winter Farmers Market, 10 a.m. - noon, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St., Silverton. Local produce, eggs, meats, artisan crafts. Free admission. silvertonfarmersmarket.com
Sunshine Fitness, 10 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Light exercising with the video Quick Fit. Signed waiver required. Teens & adults. Free. 971-370-5040
Saturday Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 10 a.m., Zoom. For families and friends of alcoholics. Zoom link: Janet.h.salem23@gmail.com
Silverton Country Historical Society, 1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Museum open. Repeats Sundays. 503-873-7070
The Art of Mindfulness, 2 p.m. Borland Gallery, 303 Coolidge St., Silverton. Connecting mind, heart, and body. Listen, meditate, contemplate, share thoughts. 971-218-6641
Creciendo Juntos/Growing Together Storytime, 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. ¡Aprendamos sobre el dinero durante todo el mes! Mientras leía algunos libros sobre duendes. Learn about money and read books about Leprechauns. 971-370-5040
Just for Today Al-Anon Family Group, 6:30 p.m., Silverton Coffee Club, 302 N Water St. For families and friends of alcoholics.
Saturday, March 1
St. Paddy’s Day Buttons
Through March 15, stop by Mt. Angel Public Library to pick up a St. Patrick’s Day button or make one with button machine. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040
Monday, March 3
Daughters of the American Revolution
10 a.m., Stayton United Methodist Church, 1450 Fern Ridge Road. Program: Madonnas of the Trails - memorials to the pioneer mothers of the covered wagon days. All welcome. 503-508-8246
Plaza Park Open house
5:30 - 7 p.m., Council Chambers. Open house to identify and share the challenges, opportunities and design elements for improving Main Street and a new downtown Plaza Park next to City Hall. Open to public. JGottgetreu@ Silverton.or.us
Mt. Angel City Council
7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. 503-845-9291, ci.mt-angel.or.us
Tuesday, March 4
Nutrition Clinic
11 a.m. - noon, Silverton 50+ Center. Learn nutrition basics for second half of life with nutritionist Lainie Pyper of Nourish You NW. Free. Advanced registration needed by calling 503-8733093. All welcome. silvertonseniors.org
Shrove Tuesday Dinner
6 p.m., Marquam United Methodist Church, 36971 S Highway 213, Mt. Angel. Shrove Tuesday Pancake dinner. Open to all. 503-829-5061
Mt. Angel American Legion
6:30 p.m., Legion Hall, 740 E College St., Mt. Angel. All veterans are welcome. Masks optional. Jim, 503-845-6119
Wednesday, March 5
Dragon Eye Clay Craft
1 & 6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create dragon eyes with air-dry clay in this twopart activity. Today, sculpt eyes and let them dry. March 12, 1 or 6 p.m., paint them. Sign up for both days. Adults. Space limited. Registration: 971-370-5040
Silverton City Council
6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, 410 N Water St., Silverton. Work session followed by regular council meeting. Open to public. Agenda available. silverton.or.us
Scotts Mills City Council
7 p.m., Scotts Mills City Hall, 265 Fourth St. Open to public. scottsmills.org
Thursday, March 6
Cancer Support Group
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Silverton area cancer support. All welcome. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Silverton Kiwanis Club
Noon, Main St. Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. New members welcome. Repeats March 20. silvertonkiwanis.org
iPhone Basics
1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to use an iPhone. Adults, teens. Space is limited. Registration required by calling 971-370-5040.
Silverton Dine Out
5:15 p.m., Wooden Nickel, 1610 Pine St., Silverton. Silverton 50+ Center makes the reservations; attendees pay for their dinner. All welcome. silvertonseniors.org
Simple Printmaking
6:30 - 8 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Create line drawings that can be embellished with color. Drawing experience helpful; not necessary. All material provided. Register: 503-873-8796
Critique Night
7 - 8:30 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. Bring latest work for discussion, critique amongst other artists in the community. 503-873-2480, silvertonarts.org
Friday, March 7
Family Movie
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Watch Wicked (PG) while enjoying popcorn. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Lunaria Opening Reception
6 - 9 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Gallery’s 30th anniversary celebration featuring artwork by the five founding members, Ann Altman, Teresa Burgett, Antonia Jenkins, Shannon Rice, Theresa Sharrar. Meet the artists and celebrate next door at Leaf and Vine with live music, wine, cake, appetizers. 503-873-7734, lunariagallery.com
Saturday, March 8
Flea Market
9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. Free admission. 503-873-4567
Seedy Saturday
11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Seed exchange, plant sale, children’s activities, vendors, educational resources. Bring seeds and containers to split them up. Early admission for vulnerable community members. Free admission. silvertongrange.org
Sunday, March 9
Daylight Savings Time Starts
Set your clocks 1 hour forward.
Scotts Mills Historical Museum
1 - 5 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave. Open for public browsing. Free. Open by appointment by contacting Joe Plas, 503-871-9803, smahsmuseum@gmail.com
Tuesday, March 11
Ancestry Detectives
10 a.m. - noon, Silver Falls Library. Question and answer session on DNA topics. All welcome. ancestrydetectives.org
Ukulele Play and Sing-Alongs
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. The first 30 minutes is beginner’s ukulele lesson followed by play and sing-along time for all skill levels. Music is provided but bring your ukulele. 503-873-8796
Lenten Soup Supper
6 p.m., Marquam United Methodist Church, 36971 S Hwy 213, Mt. Angel. Every Tuesday through April 15. 503-829-5061
Mt. Angel School District
6:30 p.m., District Office, 730 E Marquam St., Mt. Angel. Open to public. masd91.org
Silver Falls School District
7 p.m., Silverton High. Open to public. 503-873-5303, silverfallsschools.org
Silverton Planning Commission
7 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. 503-874-2207, silverton.us.or
Noon - 1 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Stepby-step instructions. Bring crochet hook and yarn. $20. RSVP: Makayla, 503-915-8086 Italian Conversations
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Come practice your Italian with Craig Bazzi and Carlo Antinucci. All levels welcome. Free. Repeats March 26. 503-873-8796
Virtual Film Discussion
7 p.m. Zoom. Watch Around the World in 80 Days on Kanopy, on your own then join a Zoom moderated discussion.
For Zoom invite, contact Ron, 503-873-8796.
Thursday, March 13
Red Cross Blood Drive
8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Kennedy High, 890 E Marquam St., Mt. Angel. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-3767.
Agricultural Safety Seminar
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Festhalle, 500 NE Wilco Road, Mt. Angel. Designed primarily for people working in agriculture but open to anyone interested. Topics include navigating OSHA’s top citations, co-existing with agricultural chemicals, farm cold stress safety, farm emergency first aid. Free, but registration required: https://cvent. me/qlQBow.saif.com/agseminars
PFLAG Silverton
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. The group’s board members will be on hand to answer questions regarding the new Silverton PFLAG chapter. Open to public. pflagsilverton@gmail.com
Friday, March 14
Red Cross Blood Drive
Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton First Baptist Church, 229 Westfield St. Appointments: redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-3767.
LEGO Lab
3 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build an original creation to display in the library. All ages. Free. Repeats March 28. 971-370-5040
All-Ages Social Night
6 - 9 p.m., Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Bring a game and pizza toppings. Adult must accompany children under 13. All ages. Free. 971-267-9364
Trivia Bee
6 p.m., Silverton First Christian Church, 402 First St. Trivia Bee wine & dessert auction benefiting Silverton Kiwanis Club’s programs for youth. Appetizers, cash bar. Tickets $25 in advance; $30 at door. Tickets available at BST Realty, Silver Falls Library or Silverton Chamber of Commerce. Team registration is $250 until March 7. Lisa, 503-930-7793, silvertonkiwanis.org
Saturday, March 15
Repair Fair & Share
11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Silver Fall Library. Connecting people who can repair household items with people who need their fixed. Make connections, learn skills, reduce waste, save money. Free. Sign up: http://bit.ly/ SilverFallsRepair FairSignup2025.
Puzzle Challenge
Noon - 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Form a team of up to five people and compete to complete a 500-piece puzzle in just two hours. All supplies provided. Space is limited. Registration required by calling 971-370-5040.
Monday, March 17
St. Patrick’s Day
Tuesday, March 18
Silver Falls Book Club
6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Discuss The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin. All welcome. Free. 503873-8796
Wednesday, March 19
Memory Journal Craft
6:30 - 8 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Use an existing hardback book and creatively “alter” it to hold your own memories or art. Basic supplies provided. You provide the images. Free. Sign up: 503-873-8796
Silverton City Council
6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, 410 N Water St., Silverton. Work session followed by regular meeting. Open to public. silverton.or.us
Thursday, March 20
Spring Equinox
Social Connection Summit
9 a.m. - noon, Silverton 50+ Center. Resource fair, refreshments until 10 a.m., then Social Connection presentation by Oregon Health Authority Older Adult Behavioral Health Lead Strategist Nirmila Dhar. Free. Register: 503-873-3093.
Mt. Angel Book Discussion
1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss The Grammarians by Cathleen Schine. Copies at circulation desk. All welcome. Free. 971-370-5040
Silver Falls Writers Group
6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Writers share works in progress. All welcome. Ron, 503-873-8796
Mt. Angel Planning Commission
7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Open to public. ci.mt-angel.or.us
Friday, March 21
Red Cross Blood Drive
Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. Appointments: redcrossblood. org or call 800-733-3767.
Teen Cooking Lab
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to make fresh spring rolls. Teens. Free. 971-370-5040
7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Everyone welcome. Under 18 must have parent/guardian. Christy, 541786-1613, silvertonpflag@gmail.com
Thursday, March 27
TAB/Book Club
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. Copies available at Circulation Desk. Afterward, meet for Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meeting. Grades 6-12. 971-370-5040
Writers Workshop
6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Chat with fellow writers, get feedback. Bring up to three pages of work. Adults & teens. Free. 971-370-5040
Song Circle
7 - 8 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Salem Threshold Singers provide healing with optional participatory song circle for the grieving. All welcome. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Saturday, March 29
Spring Used Book Sale
10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Silver Falls Library. All genres. All ages - hardback, paperback, young adult, children’s. Sponsored by Friends of Silver Falls Library. silverfallslibrary.org
Invasive Weeds Workshop
2 - 4 p.m., Scotts Mills Grange, 299 Fourth St. Learn to manage and control invasive weeds like Tansy and Scotch Broom, with expert guidance from the Oregon Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed specialists. Free. Open to public. scottsmillsgrange.org
Sunday, March 30
Pancake Breakfast
7 a.m. - noon, Scotts Mill Community Center, 298 Fourth St. $5/person. 503-873-5435, scottsmills.org
Monday, March 31
Vigil for Peace
2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Towne Square Park, Silverton. Silverton People for Peace gather to advocate for peace, social justice issues on all levels of society including a focus on issues of current concern. Open to all. 503-873-5307
Writing a Legacy Letter
3 - 4 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Threesession workshop provides a structure through which they can generate a meaningful and lasting set of reflections for those closest to them. Class sessions include mini-lectures, individual writing and group discussions. Free; limited to eight participants. Register: 503-873-3093. silvertonseniors.org
“Doing Well for Yourself By Doing Good for Others”
Ilove terrariums. In fact, I own a terrarium shop in Silverton. But this is not an ad and so, I will say no more about my business. But I do love terrariums and I’d like to share something with you that I have learned from my work in creating them.
Success with a terrarium begins with keeping everything clean. The plants, the glass container, the rocks, the mosses, everything has to be free from contamination by diseases, insect pests, and aggressive molds. These nasties will destroy a terrarium. If any of these bad guys get inside a terrarium they will slowly take it over and thrive at the expense of the plants. First it will get really ugly.Then it will die. So, I have to do whatever it takes to keep the nasties out.
Doing Well by Doing Good
In a properly planted terrarium every living thing is doing well for itself by doing good for others. First, the microorganisms living in the soil will be constantly composting the soil, breaking it down into it’s basic elements and so releasing the carbon dioxide that the plants need in order to thrive. The plants then transform that carbon dioxide into sugar and oxygen by a process called photosynthesis. The sugar and oxygen are needed by the microbes in order for them to thrive.
This cycle of provision is what botanists call a “symbiotic relationship.” Both life-forms, the plants and the microbes, thrive because they are providing what the other one needs. This mutually beneficial relationship works so well that the oldest terrarium on record, which is in The Guinness Book of World Records, has not been opened now for over 60 years!
So, What Does All This Have To Do With Us?
As I said, every living thing inside a healthy terrarium is doing well for itself by doing good for others. Well, that is the way the entire world is supposed to work. We are all to have a place in God’s grand design, and it is a very good design where we all get what we need simply by doing what is good for one another. Jesus commands us to love one another. We are supposed show our love for Him by loving our neighbor as ourself.
Inside my terrariums, when any life form insists on doing well for itself by only doing harm to everyone else, I call that a nasty disease or a pest, and in my line of work, I have to intervene to arrest its progress. If I don’t, it will break the entire ecosystem of my terrarium. Sometimes it get’s so bad I have to empty out the terrarium entirely and start over, saving whatever I can and then, replanting it so that everything get’s back into balance.
It may come as a surprise that we are all living inside of a huge terrarium called Planet Earth. In our planetary terrarium, the same ecosystem operates, and we all enjoy the benefits it provides. Air, water, and food are ample. The system works as a glorious display of God’s wisdom and goodness as its Creator.
Tending The Garden
However, in the terrarium in which we live, we have a part to play. Our assignment from the very beginning has been is obey God by taking care of the earth just as we would a garden. Our stewardship comes with important responsibilities. As a race of beings created in the image of God, we are intended to do, by means of our intentional obedience to God, what the animals do by instinct. Like all of God’s Creation, we too are intended to bring Him glory— doing well for ourselves by doing good for others. That is the only way we are permitted to thrive in this world that God has made.
am speaking of people, and God calls all their foolishness, “sin.”
In an environmental context we can call this sin “pollution.” In family we call it “neglect” or “abuse.” In sexual relationships this sin has many names, such as “rape, fornication and adultery.” In society as a whole we call sin “crime” and “violence.” In business and politics we call it “graft, fraud, and corruption.” In a school we might call it “being a bully.” But the worst of all sins is the sin of rejecting God’s offer of grace and mercy through Christ. Sin is aways the same problem. It is proud rebellion against God, against His good design in Creation, and against His offer of salvation in the gospel.
Enough is Enough!
When this rebellion against God takes over the world (as it has) it becomes like one of my terrariums that need to be emptied out and replanted. That is what God did through Noah’s flood (Gen. 6-9:19). That is also what He is going to do again when Christ returns to judge the earth. But this time He’s going to use fire.
In 2 Peter 3:10-13 we read, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up… Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”
God is going to hit the reset button on the universe. This corrupted world will be burned up and a new universe will takes its place. The question is, “Where will we be then?”
We All Need to Be Saved.
But in this large terrarium of Planet Earth we have a serious problem. As happens once in a while in a few of my terrariums, a foolish life form now insists on doing well for itself by primarily doing harm to others, taking what they want from others while refusing to give back anything of benefit to those who make it possible for them to thrive. These fools are rebelling against the purpose for which God created them. They are nasties. Of course, I
Ever since Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden all Mankind has fallen short of the glorious standard God set for us. We have all sinned. We have all failed to love God and love one another as we should. That is why we all need to be rescued, forgiven, and restored to fellowship with God. As Jesus told us in John 3:16, “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” That means whoever repents and believes in Jesus will be forgiven and saved. But this faith is the kind of faith
By Gregg Harris
that is eager to obey Jesus’ command to love one another. If God is going to empty out the universe and start over with a new heaven and a new earth where only those who love God may dwell, where will that leave you? If you die before putting your faith in Jesus, you will not be there to enjoy the new world that is coming. There will be no heaven for you.
Repent & Believe
You are not in a hopeless situation. When Jesus Christ died on the cross, He paid for all our sins, including yours if you believe on Him. When His Heavenly Father raised Jesus from the dead, it proved that Jesus’ sacrifice was accepted as full payment and that now God can welcome everyone He chooses to come to Him and be forgiven. Everyone He draws will be restored to fellowship with Him as a child of God. It’s not too late for you to get in on God’s offer. Let go of your stubborn unbelief. Trust in God. Repent of your sins. Admit that you need Him. Believe this good news. And then, start showing your love for God by the way you love your neighbor. Or, in other words, start doing well for yourself by doing good for others
Questions? Contact me at 971-370-0967 if you would like to meet up. I am also the Pastor of Preaching & Teaching at Gracious Cross Reformed Church in East Salem/Keizer and I’d love to have you come visit and hear me teach.
Gregg Harris, “Pastor, www.GraciousCross.org”
The Oldest Terrarium.
By James Day
The City of Silverton has passed an ordinance that addresses camping inside city limits. The ordinance, which passed unanimously at the council’s Feb. 24 meeting, is structured in a way that it only states places where camping is not allowed. For example, it identifies places such as public rights of way and city parks, the downtown core (including City Hall and city parking facilities), city water facilities, within 500 hundred feet of any school or state highway, within 150 feet of any other campsite and under any bridge or viaduct as places where camping is not allowed.
No information is provided in the ordinance – which is in the Municipal Code as Chapter 12.65 – on where camping is permitted should Sheltering Silverton not be occupying the space.
The council has been debating a site for a local homeless camp since its Aug. 19 meeting, driven by encouragement from by its legal advisers to establish rules for camping as a result of recent legal decisions and case law.
Specific locations were considered, including the former dog park site north of A Street near Subway, a recently annexed piece of city park property off of Ike Mooney Road and a site on Westfield Street near the skate park
and the Silverton 50+ Center.
Only one site reached a vote, the Westfield site. It was passed on its first reading by a 4-3 vote on Dec. 26, but by the time of the next council session on Jan. 6 support for the site had cratered.
When Chapter 12.65 passed Feb. 24 only Councilors Kyle Palmer and Matt Gaitan addressed it.
“I appreciate everyone’s patience throughout this process,” Palmer said. “I’m not in love with it, but it’s better than the other options.”
“I understand the challenges, and I think we got it right,” Gaitan said.
City Manager Cory Misley told Our Town Feb. 25 “that we spent so much time on this and we resolved everything except for the location. So we decided to flip it and note places where you can’t camp. You can camp anywhere that isn’t listed in that ordinance.”
Misley suggested that Sheltering Silverton will prove to be a good resource to advise potential campers on where it is legal to do so. The ordinance only kicks in on evenings when Sheltering Silverton is full.
Meeting Date: Effective with the meeting of March 5, Silverton City Council meetings will be held on Wednesdays instead of Mondays.
SFSD positions open for May 20 election
Multiple board positions for local special districts are on the May 20 ballot. Candidates have until March 20 to file.
Candidates must meet residency requirements and be registered to vote within the district.
All positions are fouryear terms. For filing information, contact the Marion County Clerk’s Office at 503-588-5041.
Silver Falls School District
All three incumbents whose seats are on the ballot have decided not to run. Board members Owen Von Flue, Jennifer Traeger and Aaron Koch confirmed they will
not seek re-election to represent Zones 2, 4 and 5 respectively.
As of Feb. 25 former board member Wally Lierman had filed for Zone 4.
Chemeketa
Community College Zone 4, currently held by Ken Hector
Mt. Angel School District
Position 2, currently held by Andrea Pfau
Position 3, currently held by Shari Riedman
Position 5, currently held by Mark Brenden
Drakes Crossing Rural Fire Protection District
Position 1, currently held by Mary Anne Heuchert
$1,399,000 Secluded country living with remodeled, beautiful interior. 27.7 Acres, located between Silverton and Salem, forest and river views. 2658 sqft, 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, possiblity for dual living. Listed by Jackson Sherwood 971-343-2475 MLS#825174
$825,000 Love a creek view? 212' Abiqua Creek frontage, one level home, 1920 sqft and a separate shop w/ full bath. Silverton. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#824419
$659,000 New Construction, one story w/ covered patio. Modern Finishes, 1821 sqft, 3 bed, 2 bath, custom tile shower in master. Silverton. David and Angela Leikem 503-991-0296 MLS#824435
Position 2, currently held by Richard Ott
Mt Angel Fire District
Position 4, currently held by Shayne Kleinschmit
Position 5, currently held by Stan Seifer
Silverton Fire District
Position 2, currently held by Ryan Bielenberg
Position 3, currently held by Dixon Bledsoe
Position 4, currently held by Les Von Flue
Silver Falls Library District
Two director positions, currently held by Ingrid Donnerstag and Dmitry White
– Stephen Floyd
$499,000 Stunning single level home with private primary suite, 1420 sqft, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, built in 2020. Woodburn. Listed by Sheila Sitzman 303-885-0679 MLS#825000
$750,000 1901 Classic Beauty, stunning kitchen and open stair case. PLUS detached garage w/ apartment. Silverton. Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#824267
Broker
Raised in Silverton, my family instilled a value of community involvement and volunteerism. My husband and I are Young Life Leaders in Dallas and our faith is a big part of our life. I look forward to serving others through real estate!
$462,500 Great room w/ wall of windows, vaulted ceilings, custom cabinetry, hardwood floors. 3 bed, 2 bath, 1632 sqft. Mt. Angel. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#823570
$480,000 Cul-d-sac in South Salem, Charming setting with a forest view, 4 bed, 2.5, 2044 sqft. Angela DeSantis 503-851-9286 MLS#824617
$409,900 Potential awaits with 2 outbuildings, one is a bonus room or office. 4 bed, 2 bath, 1512 sqft with charming features. Silverton. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667 MLS#824615
$420,000 Dream of being an Investor? Solid and updated w/ 12 foot ceilings, stained concrete floors. Tenants already in place. Mt. Angel. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667 MLS#821330
info current at time of publication Prices and availability subject to change
HARDSCAPES
New location Winter Farmers Market keeps things
By Melissa Wagoner
Tremendous changes are afoot for the Winter Market version of the Silverton Farmers Market.
“Saturday, [Feb.] 8 was the first day at Immanuel Lutheran Church,” vendor and board member Brenda Sparks said. The biggest shift – the market’s move from its original location at the Silverton Friends Church, where it has been held since it opened in 2018 – was inspired by the board’s goal to increase accessibility for the market’s customers.
“It seems like Immanuel Lutheran has become a hub for things. They seem to be allowing more of the community to use their space and so it feels like a familiar space for some of our customers,” Sparks said. “And being at this location, it’s all paved and has access for people of all abilities.”
Thus far the relocation appears to have been a success.
“Last year 100 people came at this time,” Sparks said. She has been a vendor at both markets for the past three years. “This year it was 200.”
In addition to the location change, the Farmers Market Board is also making changes to the vendor lineup – adding a hydroponic greens vendor – and initiating a Weekly Information Presentations series beginning with a discussion about fungi cultivation by Blue Sky Fungi, a look at the connection between children and nature by Wild Wellness and a demonstration of how to make your own lacto-fermented foods with Joyful Solutions on March 1.
Silverton Winter Farmers Market
Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N. Church St.
Saturdays 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Lacto-fermented food presentation by Joyful Solutions on March 1 at 10:30 a.m.
For information about becoming a vendor, a presenter, facilitating kids activities or joining the board visit www.silvertonfarmersmarket.com
to share their music.”
The board’s goal is for the Winter Market to be just as vibrant as the one held each summer.
“Whitney
whitney@silvertonrealty.com mike@silve rtonrealty.com 303 Oak St. Silverton • www.SilvertonRealty.com
“Email the market [www. silvertonfarmersmarket.com] if you want to speak,” Sparks said. “Local food topics would be ideal.”
It’s just one of the many ways the Silverton Farmers Market is striving to get the community involved.
“We’re hoping for a kids’ activity so people can come do something with their kids,” Sparks said, referencing the board’s ongoing search for a volunteer coordinator for the program.
“And we’re open to music if anyone has family-friendly music they would like to play. It’s a busking opportunity for kids or adults in the community who would like
“If we didn’t have a Winter Market, starting in the summer attendance would be low and we’d have to build momentum,” Sparks explained. Plus, there is a loyal customer base of yearround clientele who would have to find somewhere else to do their weekly shopping.
“I appreciate Silvertonians because they go to [the Farmers Market] to shop,” Sparks said. “They go there to get as much of their shopping done as possible.” And to socialize.
“People run into each other all the time at the market,” she agreed. “They might not even expect to see each other there.”
With more reasons to visit the Winter Market than ever before, Sparks hopes those who have never attended will stop in and see what’s happening.
The Silverton Winter Market inside Immanuel Lutheran Church MELISSA WAGONER
Patricia Ann Love June 13, 1930 – Feb. 20, 2025
Patricia Ann Love, 94, died Feb. 20, 2025, at Woodside Post Acute Care Facility in Molalla, Oregon after living in Mount Angel, Oregon for 65 years.
Pat was born on June 13, 1930, to Elmer and Chelsea (Parks) Love in Mt. Vernon, New York where she lived until her father’s death in 1946. While living with her mother, a college dorm manager, she finished high school and the first years of college in various locations around the country. She went on to graduate from Syracuse University in the early 1950s then worked as an accountant and office assistant, first in New York City then in Portland, Oregon.
She was a gifted artist, musician and poet, publishing in literary journals, giving readings and producing chapbooks. Feeding After Dark, her most significant publication was well received by poetry lovers.
Over the years Pat traveled extensively through the U.S., Canada, Europe and China always returning to her muchloved house in Mt. Angel.
Her father; mother; sister, Barbara Love Cash; and special friend, Ruth Schmerber; preceded her in death. Pat is survived by a niece, Jody Scriber in New York and a nephew, David Cash in Connecticut. She also leaves many close friends in Mount Angel, Silverton and Woodburn.
Lawrence Donald Brown passed on Feb. 18, 2025. His beloved wife Cordie of 65 years was with him.
Born and raised in Silverton, he moved to California in 1976 to further his career after serving as a manager at Silverton’s Valley Telephone Company. Upon retirement, Larry and Cordie returned to Silverton in 1998, where he lived most of his remaining years.
Larry is survived by his wife, Cordie; two children, Mitch and Sally; six grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. He is survived by his brother, Norman Brown of Silverton. His brother, Lowell Brown Jr., passed in 1980.
Larry contributed to Silverton Country Historical Society, sharing his family’s rich history as pioneer residents of Silverton. His brother and extended family remain in Silverton today.
Larry loved fishing, camping, rafting, and most of all he was a proud “car guy.” Larry was a founding member of the Silverton Flywheels car club, many in town will remember him driving his 1940 Ford pickup, “Red” through town.
In 1960 Pat arrived at Mt. Angel College to teach English and Art until it closed in 1973. During these years she earned an MFA from Reed College.
In the mid 1070s Pat began teaching “Writing Your Life Story” and other community education courses for Chemeketa Community College where she taught until her retirement.
Donations can be made in Patricia’s honor to First Presbyterian Church at www.firstpreswoodburn.org/give or to 89.9 FM radio All Classical Radio at www.allclassical.org/support/.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 11 at First Presbyterian Church of Woodburn, 950 N. Boones Ferry Road.
Gary Johnson Jan. 12, 1953 – Jan. 26, 2025
Gary Johnson, 72, of Silverton, Oregon passed away on Jan. 26, 2025.
Gary was born on Jan. 12, 1953 in Silverton, Oregon to Sheldon and Beverly Johnson. Gary was a lifelong resident of Silverton, working for Cascade Farm Machinery and Cooley’s Gardens. Gary was proud of his service to the City of Silverton as a volunteer fireman. In 1976 Gary was selected as Silverton’s and Marion County’s Fireman of the Year. Gary was also an active member in the Silverton Silver “T” Club.
a game of pool. Gary enjoyed spending his favorite holiday (Thanksgiving) surrounded by his family and great food.
Gary is survived by his daughter, April Harrison (husband Kevin) of Hillsboro, Oregon; son, Christopher Johnson (wife Nicole) of Keizer, Oregon; sister, Sandra White of Salem, Oregon; niece Meghan; and his three grandchildren, Allison (Cal), Jessica and Archer.
He was a lifelong giver and volunteered in various ways including the hospital auxiliary, blood drives, cemetery board, and his greatest love beyond his family was reading to children at Eugene Field School through the SMART Program.
A Celebration of Life for Larry will take place on Saturday, March 15 at the Oregon Garden Resort at 1 p.m.
Donations in memorium may be sent to Mark Twain Elementary School’s reading program.
In Memory Of
Adam Hollanshed May 26, 1978 Feb. 5, 2025
Alfred Kuenzi
When Gary wasn’t working or tinkering with his toys, he could be found at the golf course, fishing at the lake or playing
Gary will be laid to rest at Valley View Cemetery by his family and closest friends. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Submissions welcomed: Our Town appreciates the opportuity to share life’s Passages with our readers. If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, college graduation or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown. life@mtangelpub.com or mail it to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mount Angel, OR 97362, or drop it by our office at 401 Oak St., Silverton any weekday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Historic splash
Silverton swimming coach Lucky Rogers said before the start of the season that his boys squad could be the best in his 10-year tenure.
The results pretty much speak for themselves. Silverton tied for fifth at the Class 5A state meet in Beaverton, the highest finish by an AquaFoxes boys team in history. The girls, meanwhile, took sixth, equal to their second best showing. The girls were third in 2020 and sixth in 2019.
Junior Nolan Horner took fourth in the 50 free in 22.22 and fourth in the 100 free in a school record 49.09. Horner also swam on the boys 200 medley relay team that took third and the boys 200 free relay that took third.
Horner and the two relays provide a microcosm of the system that continues to work for Rogers: flood the pool with good swimmers and try to pile up points by targeting the relays.
“We may not have the elite of the elite, but the relay success that we have tells you how good we are,” Rogers told Our Town
All six Silverton relay squads placed, and the Aqua Foxes were the only 5A school to pull off the feat.
In the boys 200 medley Horner was joined by Taylor Fast, Colin Ross and Brody Hollis. In the 200 free it was Horner, Ross, Hunter Siewell and Carter Daniel. Horner was out of events by the time of the 400 free relay, with Silverton’s Hollis, Hunter, Joey Walker and Daniel swimming fourth. All three relays set school records. Finishing sixth individually for the boys were Siewell in the 100 free, Fast in the 100 back and
AquaFoxes boys produce top 5 finish at state
Ross in the 100 breast.
The top individual performer for the girls was junior Breeza Rodriguez, who took fifth in the 100 free and sixth in the 100 back. The girls 200 free relay team of Kailea Buckley, Rodriguez, Cordelia Bay and Khylee Howell finished third, the 200 medley team of Rodriguez, Alex Hergenreter, Madi Sword and Howell was fourth and the 400 free relay unit of Buckley, Howell, Abigail Nuttbrock and Bay finished fifth.
Wrestling: Silverton heavyweight Brash Henderson earned a spot in the Foxes record books by winning his fourth consecutive district title at the Class 5A Mid-Willamette Conference meet held Feb. 17-18 at the Salem Armory Auditorium.
Silverton coach Jared Wilson told Our Town that he still is researching whether Henderson’s four-peat feat is the first in school history.
Foxes 165-pounder Bo Zurcher also won his weight class and was named the tournament’s most outstanding wrestler. Silverton scored 258.5 points to finish third behind Dallas (41 8.5) and West Albany (304).
Other placers for the Foxes included Damian Rael (third, 285), Caleb Davis (fourth, 113), Gavin Koster (fifth, 106), Eddy Kreitzer (fifth, 138), Wyatt Barnes
(fifth, 144), Talyn Dettwyler (fifth, 150), Ryder Vandeweghe (fifth, 157), John Strader (sixth, 132), Logan Uitto (sixth, 175) and Wilson Slaughter (sixth, 190).
“Bo Zurcher and Brash Henderson are obviously studs,” Wilson said. “It has been so much fun to have had the opportunity to watch and coach them during the last four years. They have both been such tremendous leaders and ambassadors of our sport during their time at SHS. I couldn’t be prouder of them, and the young men they have become.”
Other positives that Wilson noted included the fact that the squad’s placers included “four freshmen, two sophomores, and three kids with less than two years’ experience.”
Also, Davis was seeded sixth and took fourth, while Real was seeded fifth and finished third.
The Foxes’ girls squad took ninth in the 6A-5A Special District 3 meet at McNary High in Keizer. Silverton scored 92 points, led by McKayla Bonham, who advanced to the final at 120 pounds before falling to Naudia Edmiston of West Albany. Nova Graham (135) took third, Sayler Graham (130) took fourth and Kalie Wilson (170) sixth. For the girls squad.
State championships for both boys and girls took place after Our Town’s presstime and will be reported in our March 15 edition.
Kennedy, meanwhile, finished fifth in the
Silverton High wrestling’s female squad standout McKayla Bonham took second at the Mid-Wallemette Valley Conference; state first place holder for the fourth consecutive year, Brash Henderson; and Bo Zurcher, who took first in his class as well. JAMES DAY
closely contested Class 2A-1A Special District 1 meet at Nestucca in Cloverdale. Host Nestucca won with 162.5 points, followed by Clatskanie (139.5), Vernonia (129.5), Colton (129) and the Trojans (127).
JFK freshman Bohden Sowa (126) won his weight class and became the first Trojans freshman to win at districts. Julio Reyes Hernandez (132) was second and became the first three-time state qualifier for JFK. Allan Salazar (113) finished third with an inspiring performance that included wins against two wrestlers who had beaten him earlier in the season. Also, Creo Walker (190) was second, Daniel Lopez Sanchez (215) was third, Antoni Alagoz (12) was fourth, Caleb Kline (106) was fifth and Gavin Campbell (215) was sixth. Trojans coach Dewey Enos told Our Town that Salazar’s showing “was so emotional… honestly one of the best
Sports Datebook
Tuesday, March 5
Girls Basketball
5:30 p.m. Silverton vs Woodburn
Boys Basketball
7 p.m. Silverton vs Woodburn
Wednesday, March 19
Softball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy bs Gervais
coaching moments of my life.” Enos also offered praise for his seniors, all of whom qualified for state.
Boys Basketball: Kennedy finished 12-15 overall and failed to qualify for the Class 2A playoffs. The Trojans tied Colton for fifth place in the Tri-River Conference. After winning 45-39 at Colton to break the tie, JFK fell at 4th place Salem Academy 55-41 and was eliminated.
Alumni Watch: Former Kennedy and Linn-Benton ace Ethan Kleinschmit has taken over as the Sunday starter for Oregon State. Kleinschmit is 1-1 with a 1.64 ERA after a pair of outings. In his debut he pitched six innings of no-hit ball vs. Indiana. He has 12 strikeouts, second to teammate Dax Whitney’s 14.
Got a news tip? Email me at james.d@ mtangelpub.com. Follow me on Twitter @jameshday and Our Town on Facebook.
Thursday, March 20
Baseball
5 p.m. Silverton vs Cleveland
Softball
5 p.m. Silverton vs West Linn
Home contests only. For full schedule, visit osaa.org.
Chatbot chaos
I’m not much of a gambler. Oh, I have bought a random lottery ticket over the years, but never won much. The grand total of my winnings is something like $4. I might as well have tossed my money out the car window.
Which brings me to computer systems and artificial intelligence and the need to toss them out the window, too.
I don’t know about you, but almost every time I hop on my computer to buy a plane ticket or do anything else, I’m gambling, and the odds are against me. Something will probably be screwed up.
I recently had occasion to interact with our state government. The result was a total hash of incorrect information, contradictory instructions and a chatbot that cheerfully informed me that almost everything I was doing was wrong. Note that it didn’t help me fix the problem, it just pointed out that most of what I was previously told was worthless.
I may be an idiot – I have shown that to
be true on many occasions over the last seven decades – but how is it that chatbots and AI make me look like a genius?
I fully understand that mistakes happen, both human and computer-caused. That’s all part of life. It is unrealistic to expect perfection.
But when problems arise, companies and state agencies put up a screen of busy signals and four-hour wait times on their telephone systems and worthless chatbots. One agency even has a chatbot setup that forces you to wait hours to use. It’s as though your time has no value.
Give me a human being, please.
I have found that people are far easier to
work with, and get the job done faster and more accurately. Especially after a computer has messed things up, a person can fix most problems in a few minutes. Instead of waiting hours to be told by a chatbot that the information another chatbot told me was wrong, an actual person can resolve a problem.
I get the feeling that many government agencies and companies are run by monkeys with spreadsheets. They seek “efficiency” (and to save money) by replacing humans with multimilliondollar computer systems. The problem is the services they provide to customers, or taxpayers, are degraded so much that they only frustrate the hell out of them – and provide fodder for columnists.
Nothing is actually accomplished, wasting everyone’s time and money. This forces the public to go back time and again to resolve problems that could have been avoided in the first place. It also further overloads the phone-chatbot-AI system.
The other day, I signed up for cell phone
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service online. The instructions were so convoluted that Albert Einstein couldn’t have deciphered them. Then I saw it: if you are over 65, you could call an 800 number and an actual person would help you. I did that, and in a few minutes I was a happy customer shoveling money in the company’s direction.
I also recommended that several friends, who aren’t over 65, use the phone number to get help and sign up. I was relieved to hear that no birth certificates were required and they are now happy customers.
Last month, the folks in China announced they had invented a new, low-cost artificial intelligence system. It is a sure sign that nation will go straight down the tubes.
But it will make the spreadsheet monkeys happy.
I’d bet on it.
Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.
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