The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLVI No. 7 // 2023-02-15

The Nugget

From Sisters to Morocco...

from Sisters, Oregon

School works to improve reading

By Ceili Gatley Correspondent

The Sisters Elementary School (SES) teachers and staff are making strides to increase literacy and reading levels at the elementary level, particularly in kindergarten and first grade.

Principal Joan Warburg presented to the Sisters School District School Board in January the highlights of SES Literacy Instruction Programming. Warburg outlined the new adoption of a core-based curriculum that offers literacy experiences around a common text at the elementary level.

vivid images. Seestory,page4

Washington man arrested in robbery

Deputies with Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) arrested Dana Roy, a 42-year-old Washington resident, after he allegedly robbed a man camped off the 100 road spur at the west end of Sisters.

According to Sgt. Jason Wall of DCSO, deputies were dispatched to an unwantedsubject call at Mainline Station on Monday, February 7, at about 8 a.m. Staff reported a man was making concerning comments to the staff

about houseless camps across Highway 20 on Forest Service land.

The location is near the Sisters city limits, and there are several camps of houseless people in this area. Deputies arrived quickly and identified the man as Dana Roy. Deputies made contact with Roy and then released him after he was identified and determined there was no probable cause for an arrest.

See ROBBERY on page 9

State planning goals guide local decisions

By Sue Stafford Correspondent

Concerns around “growth and development” in Sisters are at a fever pitch. But before diving in to discussions around this hot topic,

it is necessary to gain a clear understanding of Oregon’s land-use laws which guide decisions made by the local Community Development Department staff, the

See GOALS on page 5

See READING on page 19

Sisters may add another deputy

By Ceili Gatley Correspondent

At the end of last month, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s office responded to a drunk and disorderly call at Takoda’s in Sisters (see “Man arrested, threats assessed,” The Nugget, February 8, page 1).

That Tuesday evening, it took 26 minutes for the west-county deputy with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) to arrive on scene. That is due to the gap in shifts at the local branch of the DCSO, which relies on the assigned west-county deputy to fill in shift gaps on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday evenings between 6 p.m. and midnight.

Under the current contract that went into effect on July 1, 2020, the deputies assigned in Sisters provide 160 hours of patrol coverage. Lieutenant Chad Davis presented to the Sisters City Council last Wednesday night about adding an additional deputy to the three existing Sisters deputies that patrol the streets of Sisters.

The DCSO began a partnership contract in the way of an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), which is any agreement that involves or is made between two or more governments in cooperation to solve problems of mutual concern. This IGA came after the dissolving of the Sisters police department over 20 years ago. During discussions in winter of 2019, the DCSO and the City of Sisters looked at re-structuring the law enforcement services through a new IGA to serve needs created by population growth, increased tourism, and a need for more coverage during special events.

During the discussions leading up to the new contract, they spoke about having a lieutenant who serves as a defacto police chief and three or four patrol deputies to provide law enforcement services within the City, according to Lt. Davis’ presentation.

From 2020 through 2022, the number of calls for service have increased each year:

• 2020: 2,925 actual calls for service, plus self-initiated calls of 1,195. Total calls: 4,120.

• 2021: 3,582 actual calls for service, plus self-initiated calls of 2,156. Total calls: 5,738.

• 2022: 3,825 actual calls for service, plus self-initiated calls of 2,943. Total calls: 6,768

Over those last two years, DCSO has reduced response times and increased traffic stops (500 more per year). They have also hosted community outreach events educating the public on what they do.

The team at DCSO has done a lot already in the last two years of the new contract to increase law enforcement presence in Sisters. However, there are still gaps in the coverage, and with population only expected to continue to rise, more special events, more tourism, and part-time residents, the DCSO saw the need for an additional deputy.

“Per the contract in March

See DCSO on page 22

Sisters photographer Olivia Kennedy spent two weeks in Morocco experiencing a different culture and capturing

PHOTO BY OLIVIA KENNEDY

OPINION

Letters to the Editor…

New gas station

To the Editor:

The new gas station proposal as explained in The Nugget (“Changes coming to Cascade Avenue,” 02/01 edition) is unjustified. Sisters does not need 16 new gas pumps and a 3,500sq.-ft. convenience store where the presentday Space Age is located. What an eyesore this would be for the city.

Why the complete demolition of an existing gas station (six pumps) and general store/ taco stand, Richard’s Farmstand, and C&C Nursery for 16 new gas pumps and a convenience store?

Present gas pumps and convenience stores in Sisters include the following:

• Pacific Pride — 16 pumps.

• Chevron — eight pumps/Sisters Mainline Station convenience store.

• Space Age Fuel — four pumps and two diesel pumps/general store/tacos.

• Sinclair — eight pumps/Dino Mart convenience store/3 Sisters Fuel Stop mini-mart

• 76/Sisters Pumphouse —13 pumps/ country store.

At some point Sisters (situated along Highway 20 and Highway 242) will need to have more EV charging stations, not more gas pumps. Oregon has become the fifth state to require that all new cars sold within its borders be emissions-free by 2035, which is only 12 years away. The State’s Environmental Quality Commission voted in December 2022 to enact new standards that will ban the sale of gasoline-only vehicles by that date. Please think about the future.

There are already five convenience stores along Cascade Avenue within a few blocks of each other. In addition, Dollar General is located nearby on McKinney Butte Road. The Planning Commission should consider building something attractive that will welcome visitors and the community, not a new gas station and convenience store.

J.M. Lindquist

s s s

To the Editor:

Some very thoughtful articles, commentary, and letters in the most recent issue of The Nugget regarding a number of subjects of interest.

Let me add a thought to those writing in opposition to the proposed 16-pump gas station on the west end of town. Allowing this station to be built will add an additional 12 pumps to fill cars with fossil fuels to further pollute the air with greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming.

Eugene has recently agreed to put a stop to building houses with polluting appliances. Sisters could do its part to curtail the creation of such gases by not approving the

application to construct this gas station in our community.

Roger Detweiler

Chinese balloon

To the Editor:

Regarding the Jim Cornelius February 8 article, “Scientist weighs in on balloon,” I sure feel better now that Steven Peterzen has let us all know that there is nothing to see here. Whoopsie!

The massive Chinese “research” balloon got off course, honest (the CCP told us so)! So common this is! Just “a bunch of students sitting in Beijing saying, ‘Oh (expletive deleted) we just lost our jobs.’”

Those crazy kids! Right.? What a great comfort it is to have heard from this scientist expert on the CCP’s spy surveillance technology! Thankfully, he has weighed in to let us know that we can all go back to sleep or get back to our “TikTok” app. Whew! I was concerned that even if the balloon was “off course” that it was still an incursion into our nation’s sovereign airspace by an adversary Communist nation that has expansion and invasion of Taiwan in its future plans. Not to mention stealing U.S. technologies, buying up farmland near sensitive U.S. military sites, infiltrating universities, Fang Fanging a certain congressman along with compromising other elected officials (Senator Feinstein’s Chinese spy-chauffeur, etc.), producing and releasing enough fentanyl to kill every American, cracking down on Christian missionaries and “re-educating” Uyghurs in prison camps. A dictatorial regime that mercilessly locks down its own people, even killing beloved pets during the Wuhan COVID pandemic panic that they themselves created and unleashed on the world.

I sure am glad that Mr. Peterzen knows that those innocent “students” weren’t trying to “tickle our feet,” and even if they were, it wouldn’t be “worth an international incident.”

So, sit back America and enjoy not only the loss of your border sovereignty, but our airspace as well! I think Mr. Peterzen comes off as naive, possibly listening too closely to the unserious Biden Administration and its enablers.

Cynthia Schlemlein s s s

Growth for the sake of growth

To the Editor:

There have been a lot of letters to the editor recently regarding quality-of-life issues in our

See LETTERS on page 13

The Nugget Newspaper, LLC

Editor in Chief: Jim Cornelius

Production Manager: Leith Easterling Creative Director: Jess Draper Community Marketing

Roundabout SISTERS

Bill Bartlett Columnist

Not so much moseying in Sisters these days

Merriam-Webster: mosey intransitive verb : to move in a leisurely or aimless manner

I’m not in agreement with the “aimless” part. Those of us who mosey regularly have a purpose. We just can’t tell you what it is at the moment we are moseying.

Last month took us on a road trip to Montana. That routed us through Oregon towns like Madras, Shaniko, Wasco, Biggs Junction, Boardman, and Umatilla, all places where folks still mosey. Especially on Saturday mornings and after church on Sundays.

They’re easy to spot. If in their vehicle, more than likely a pickup, they’re driving five miles under the speed limit. Which, when the speed limit is already 20 or 25, can fray the nerves of through traffic.

If on foot, they’re sauntering — just another word for moseying. If the sidewalk is narrow, then it’s a big decision for the non-moseyer. To make an awkward pass, or just get in line. We don’t want to seem impolite or in such a hurry, meaning important — places to go, people to see, things to do.

When a driver moseys you’ll get the inevitable steering-wheel wave. The one taught by rural grandfathers to sons and then to grandsons. If women give this Americana hi sign, it has so far eluded me. Not that women don’t mosey.

Texas Monthly magazine defines the tradition thusly:

“The hi sign is strictly a highway courtesy, an automotive gesture developed for the modern age. A person on horse or on foot raises his whole hand, but the demands of travel on wheels dictate a specialized wave. Body language for “howdy,” the hi sign is the simplest of waves, merely the raising of the forefinger of the driving hand, which does not budge from its draped position across the top of the steering wheel, the attitude struck by most long-distance or travelwise drivers.

“The other arm is out the

window or on the armrest, depending on the weather and your driving speed. Giving the hi sign also provides an opportunity to stretch a cramped hand, thus accomplishing two purposes at once. It wastes no energy; it is a model of efficiency, like all nonessential movements by country folks who must save their labor for the land. But be alert. The hi sign is brief, often lasting only a second.” — Anne Dingus

There’s a whole lot of subtle style put into the wave. And it’s not always only the forefinger as is custom in Texas. In Oregon it is usually two fingers, and a slightly raised thumb. Go ahead and do yours now. I’ll wait for you.

Whether it was making our 50th pass on Main Street as a teen or meeting an oncoming tractor on a back road, the steering wheel wave was, and remains, a simple gesture that connects generations of folk.

Jeep people have their own trademark movement. Motorcyclists put forth a version of the basic nod or biker wave.

Even on Cloverdale, the steering-wheel wave is no longer very common, and on Cascade, Hood, or Main, it appears headed for extinction.

You see a lot of moseying in nearby places like Madras, Culver, and Prineville, where it’s still an art form. Not so much Sisters anymore. Maybe because we have so many urbanites now. For all I know, moseying might be banned in Portland, Seattle, or the Bay Area.

Moseying is not to be confused with strolling. There’s a healthy amount of strolling in Sisters, like on the 4th Friday Art Walks or the Sunday farmers market. The Quilt Show could get a patent on strolling.

Strolling is a leisure activity. Moseying is more like surveying, taking the pulse of things. It doesn’t look like it of course, but moseying takes some effort, a degree of work.

When you hear or read of folks in Sisters Country concerned about the character of the town changin’, maybe some part of that worry is that we don’t mosey as much.

Have we lost a sense of curiosity? Are we so busy, so consequential that we no longer have the time or inkling just to slow down a bit and rediscover Sisters? How do we teach kids to mosey in the digital age?

So, take up the challenge and mosey on into town this weekend. With any luck you’ll find a few others. They’ll be obvious not by what they are doing but what they aren’t.

Citizens express concerns about growth

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

If letters to the editor are any indication, longtime residents of Sisters are saying that the level of frustration and concern with growth in Sisters appears to be at a new high-water mark. One such letter was from Sharon Booth of Tollgate, the same Booth who on February 3 posted a one-paragraph comment on the social media app Nextdoor.

That comment has so far garnered 98 responses plus 21 “reactions” — basically emojis in support of her position — which is one that is decidedly worried about

Joan Warburg, center, was honored for her commitment to patriotism at Sisters Elementary School. Music teacher Ellie Barebieri (left) is also a key staff member in putting on patriotic programs. Warburg received the award from members of Sisters Veterans of Foreign Wars 8138 Jeff Mackey, Bill Anttila, and Pat Bowe.

VFW educator of the year

By Ceili Gatley Correspondent

Joan Warburg, principal of Sisters Elementary School, was this year’s recipient of the Sisters Branch of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post 8138 Educator of the Year award.

The award recognizes an instructor within the Sisters schools that shows dedication to support of patriotism at their school.

Commander Pat Bowe, Service Officer Bill Anttila, and Quartermaster Jeff Mackey presented the

BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS

Al-Anon Mon., noon., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

541-610-7383.

award to Joan Warburg last Thursday afternoon at Sisters Elementary School. They presented it over the intercom so the entire school could recognize their principal. Students and teachers lined the hallways and clapped in appreciation and excitement.

According to the letter presented to Warburg, “Joan has supported the placement of American flags by VFW in her classrooms and has recognized and honored Sisters’ veterans by educating the students at her school with her support of such events as the Veterans

Day assembly and promoting patriotism in the school.”

Anttila read the letter over the intercom, and the rest of the team presented Warburg with an American flag pin and certificate of the award. Warburg has been passionate about placing American flags in every classroom and working with her team to put on a veterans assembly every year.

“I am truly honored, and it’s not just about me, it’s our entire team to honor our country and our veterans. The award is really for all of us,” said Warburg when accepting the award.

the future of Sisters. Booth said she recognizes only one or two names of those joining in the thread.

Booth’s post included: “An alarming article in The Nugget …. So now that they’ve ruined Bend, they’re coming here to dump on us. The mindless greed is astonishing! What can we do to stop this?” Her post is relatively tame in comparison to some of the responses. Jeanne Brookes of Cloverdale commented: “Yes. Taking to the streets in protest may be the only way to get attention and make officials realize we have had

See GROWTH on page 17

Fireside to feature Warm Springs artist

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Aurolyn Stwyer is renowned for her beadwork and for her traditional dancing. The Warm Springs artist will bring her deep knowledge of the cultural heritage of her Celilo people to Sisters on February 21, in a Fireside Story Evening at FivePine Lodge and Conference Center on February 21.

Stwyer learned beading in the traditional way — from her grandmother.

“I would sit and watch,

SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR

Go Fish Fishing Group 3rd Monday, 7 p.m. Sisters Community Church. All ages welcome. 541-771-2211.

Heartwarmers (fleece blanketmakers)

Alcoholics Anonymous Thurs., 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration / Sat., 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration / Mon., 5 p.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Big Book study, Tues., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Gentlemen’s meeting, Wed., 7 a.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Sober Sisters Women’s meeting, Thurs., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Step & Tradition meeting, Fri., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 541-548-0440.

Central Oregon Fly Tyers Guild

For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelefly@msn.com.

Council on Aging of Central Oregon Senior Lunch In-person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Grab-and-go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs. 12:30 to 1 p.m. Sisters Community Church. 541-480-1843.

East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wednesday (September-June), Stitchin’ Post. All are welcome. 541-549-6061.

2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Sisters Community Church. Materials provided. 541-408-8505.

Hero Quilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 541-668-1755.

Citizens4Community, Let’s Talk

3rd Monday, 6 to 7:30 p.m. RSVP at citizens4community.com

Military Parents of Sisters Meetings are held quarterly; please call for details. 541-388-9013.

Oregon Band of Brothers – Sisters Chapter Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 541-549-6469.

SAGE (Senior Activities, Gatherings & Enrichment) Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sisters Park & Recreation District. 541-549-2091.

Sisters Aglow Lighthouse

4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503-930-6158.

Sisters Area Photography Club

2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church. 541-549-6157.

Sisters Area Woodworkers

1st Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 541-231-1897.

Sisters Astronomy Club 3rd Tuesday, 7 p.m., SPRD. 541-549-8846.

Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters Community Church. Email sistersbridge2021@gmail.com.

Sisters Caregiver Support Group 3rd Tues., 10:30 a.m., Sisters Episcopal Church. 541-771-3258.

Sisters Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors 4th Tuesday, 6 p.m.

Location information: 541-549-1193.

Sisters Kiwanis Thursdays, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Brand 33 Restaurant at Aspen Lakes. 541-410-2870.

Sisters Parent Teacher Community

2nd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at Sisters Saloon. 541-480-5994.

Sisters Parkinson’s Support Group

2nd Thurs.,1 p.m. Sisters Library 541-668-6599

Sisters Red Hats 1st Friday. Location information: 541-848-1970.

Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon, Aspen Lakes. 541-760-5645.

Sisters Trails Alliance Board every other month, 5 p.m. varies from in-person to zoom. Info: info@sisterstrails.org

Sisters Veterans Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Restaurant. 541-903-1123.

Three Sisters Irrigation

District Board of Directors 1st Tuesday, 4 p.m., TSID Office. 541-549-8815.

Three Sisters Lions Club 2nd Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Spoons Restaurant. 541-419-1279.

VFW Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 1st Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., The Hanger, Sisters Community Church. 847-344-0498.

Weight Watchers Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. weigh-in, Sisters Community Church. 541-602-2654.

SCHOOLS

Black Butte School Board of Directors 2nd Tuesday, 3:45 p.m., Black Butte School. 541-595-6203

Sisters School District Board of Directors One Wednesday monthly, Sisters School District Administration Building. See schedule online at www.ssd6.org. 541-549-8521 x5002.

and finally my grandmother pulled out some beads and some needle and thread, she told me how to do it from beginning to end,” she recalled.

She gave her first piece of beadwork to her grandmother.

“In our way, the first one you make, you have to give it away,” she said. “That is our value system.”

Stwyer is an entrepreneur as well as an artist, with a master’s of business administration in strategic

See FIRESIDE on page 18

CITY & PARKS

Sisters City Council 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022.

Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Directors 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m., SPRD bldg. 541-549-2091.

Sisters Planning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022.

FIRE & POLICE

Black Butte Ranch Police Dept. Board of Directors Meets monthly. 541-595-2191 for time & date.

Black Butte Ranch RFPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BBR Fire Station. 541-595-2288. Cloverdale RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Wed., 5:30 p.m., 67433 Cloverdale Rd. 541-548-4815. cloverdalefire.com.

Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Tuesday, 5 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 541-549-0771.

Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 541-549-0771.

This listing is for regular Sisters Country meetings; email information to nugget@nuggetnews.com

PHOTO BY CEILI GATLEY

Experiencing Morocco in 16 days

By Tatum Cramer Correspondent

Every year in the fall, Sisters fabric artist and entrepreneur Valori Wells goes to the North African nation of Morocco with people from all over the U.S., to explore the culture and daily activities of Moroccan people.

Wells founded the program known as Creative Retreats and normally takes about 12 people on each retreat. All attending this time were women, ranging between the ages of 50-70.

“These retreats take a group of men or women down to various places to teach them about the culture and creativity within it,” explained Wells’ daughter Olivia Kennedy, who joined the trip.

On these trips sewing, pottery, camel riding, and a variety of other cultural things are taught. Kennedy’s mom left on November 26, and Olivia and her grandmother (Jean Wells) followed her on December 3. When they arrived after the long flight, they stayed in a place known as Darzamen.

“Alleyways were about four people wide,” said Kennedy.

The next day, they arrived at the beautiful Peacock Pavilions, located in Marrakech, where they as well as the other women who traveled from Oregon would be staying for the next week.

Wells has taken six trips down to Morocco, but this was Olivia’s first time.

“It was very interesting going down there and seeing the cultural differences. It was definitely a cultural shock,” she said.

She said that if you were not confident walking down the alleys of Morocco, the street vendors would tug and pull on you to try to get you into their shops in hopes something would catch your eye and you would buy it.

Kennedy said that it took her until the last few days to learn this.

Morocco is predominantly Muslim, Jewish, and Christian, with the faith demographics running in

that order. Five times a day, a man goes into a mosque and calls the people of Morocco to pray. There are mosques stationed in every single neighborhood, so that wherever you are in Morocco you can hear the call to pray.

Moroccan people take their religion very seriously, and family time is very important.

Kennedy said, “The kids in Morocco have a half-day on Fridays, and the rest of the day is devoted to solely making couscous. They have bread with every single meal and do not eat any preservatives; everything they eat is

fresh.”

By the time the children in Morocco have graduated, they will be fluent in at least three languages, including traditional Arabic, French, and Arabic dialects. Recently Morocco has implemented English-learning into their schools.

Some days were spent riding camels as well as watching soccer matches with the locals. Other days were packed with learning how to sew, learning pottery, and exploring the culture and vendors Morocco offers.

“I met some amazing people as well as made some spectacular friends,” Kennedy said. “My confidence has definitely been raised because I was forced to have higher confidence in myself over in Morocco. The biggest change for me was cultural shock. But I loved participating in programs that developed women and their education.”

She said she would definitely go back.

For more information on creative retreats to Bali or Morocco, visit https://valoriwells.com/ workshops-retreats.

Valori Wells and Olivia Kennedy traveled to Morocco for a creative retreat.

PHOTO PROVIDED

PHOTO BY OLIVIA KENNEDY

PHOTO BY OLIVIA KENNEDY

Kennedy, a photographer, took many shots of local flora and fauna.

PHOTO BY OLIVIA KENNEDY

GOALS: Local decisions guided by statewide rules

Continued from page 1

Planning Commission, and Sisters City Council.

Why were the land-use laws created, how do they work, and, after 50 years, do they need some revision to better meet today’s circumstances?

Oregon’s land-use laws, legislated in 1973, are based on a set of 19 statewide goals, which were adopted as administrative rules and are the basis for comprehensive plans adopted by Oregon cities, counties, and special districts.

Sisters, with input from the citizens, recently updated its comprehensive plan, a process that is necessary on a regular basis due to changing conditions. That update must be “acknowledged” by the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) as being consistent with the statewide planning goals.

Local comprehensive plans are not limited only to goal compliance. Local plans can address a variety of other land- use issues that are not the subject of state goals. Once acknowledged by the LCDC, the local comprehensive plan becomes the controlling document for land use in the area covered by that plan. There are city zoning and land-division ordinances needed to put the plan into effect. They comprise the City Development Code.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Oregon’s citizens were concerned that rapid population growth and development might negatively impact the environment, natural resources, and the livability of communities.

At that time, agriculture and timber were two of the largest industries. There was concern that increased development would convert farm and forest lands, presenting a threat to the state’s economy. Unfettered, sprawling development also threatened

to increase the cost of public services for more roads, sewers, and police and fire. Today those same issues are grounded in concerns of livability and sustainability.

Governor Tom McCall led the charge in urging the Oregon Legislature to enact a statewide land-use planning program to protect Oregon’s threatened agricultural and forest industries. McCall was adamant about Oregon’s rivers, streams, forests, and farms as irreplaceable biological resources.

“We’re talking about more than preserving the beauty of Oregon. … We’re talking about the economy and the environment. We’re talking about balance. In short, we’re talking about people and the

Talk with your legislators

On Tuesday, February 21, 6-7:15 p.m., there is a free online opportunity to speak with two local state legislators about housing, water, and wildlife habitat in Civic Conversations for a Sustainable Future: An Oregon Legislative Event. Rep. Emerson Levy (District 53) and Rep. Jason Knopf (District 54) will be available to talk about these issues and answer questions. Registration is available on Eventbrite or through the Central Oregon Landwatch website. Upon registration, a link to the presentation will be sent. Questions may be submitted beforehand.

land,” the governor said.

The legislature passed SB 100, establishing a statewide land-use system based on the concept that urban uses and development belong inside cities and towns, while rural lands should be preserved for farms, forests, and open space.

Residents across the state had input in establishing the 19 state and regional planning goals. Four goals apply only to the coast, and one applies to the Willamette River Greenway. The goals encourage broad public participation in land-use decisions, protection of wildlife habitat and agricultural land,

and conservation of forest land, among others.

Thus began the establishment of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB), which would surround each city and town to foster growth inside the cities, creating cohesive communities while preventing development sprawl from overrunning the surrounding landscapes. Sisters’ UGB is currently the same as the city limits. Many municipalities have a UGB that lies outside the city limits. Before the UGB can expand to allow for more development, the City must prove it has employed “efficiency measures” to make use of all developable land within the UGB. Those measures include things like increased density created by reducing required lot sizes or increasing building heights. In a larger community those measures may not impact the overall character of a town.

In a small rural community like Sisters, those types of measures can have a big impact on the overall appearance and character of the town. After 50 years of the Oregon land-use rules, is it time for the legislature to take a look at how well those rules are serving the needs of all Oregon communities? Should there be different land-use laws for urban and rural areas? In a town like Sisters, the efficiency measures may work against the goals for air, water, and land resources quality, for recreational needs, or for natural resources, scenic and historic areas, and open spaces.

The citizens of Sisters are beating the drums of resistance to irreparable changes to their community (see story page 3). Their frustrations are often aimed at local City officials and developers — who are required to abide by state land-use laws. It is legislators who hold the key to changes in the state land-use laws. Perhaps other regions in the state might qualify for goals that address their specific circumstances, like those for the Willamette River Greenway and the Oregon Coast.

Statewide land-use planning goals

The 14 statewide land use planning goals that apply to Sisters include:

Goal 1: Citizen Involvement

Goal 2: Land-Use Planning

Goal 3: Agricultural Lands

Goal 4: Forest Lands

Goal 5: Natural Resources, Scenic and Historic Areas, and Open Spaces

Goal 6: Air, Water, and Land Resources Quality

Goal 7: Areas Subject to Natural Hazards

Goal 8: Recreational Needs

Goal 9: Economic Development

Goal 10: Housing

Goal 11: Public Facilities and Services

Goal 12: Transportation

Goal 13: Energy Conservation

Goal 14: Urbanization

Information on each of the goals is available on the Oregon government website at www.oregon.gov/ lcd/op/pages/goals.

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High Camp Taphouse – feeding Sisters and serving Nepal

By Katy Yoder Correspondent

As drivers head into Sisters on Highway 20, they might look to the south near the 76 station and see High Camp Taphouse, (at the former site of Hop & Brew). They are offering delicious food from Nepal. Dishes are enhanced with locally sourced beer and ciders from twenty rotating taps. It’s all served in an open, welcoming atmosphere. There’s a couch, cozy chairs and tables, and a bar for guests.

Pema Sherpa says she and her partner, Nurbu, enjoy introducing new flavors and seasonings to diners. “Once customers give them a try, they’re smiling and proud to add something new to their list of favorite foods,” said Pema.

Nurbu and Pema Sherpa opened High Camp Taphouse last summer. Their reasons for opening the business were twofold: First, they love offering food that expands the horizons of American palates. Second, the couple’s longtime efforts to help those in need required an income source. For them, sharing the tastes of Nepal and the Himalayas is a perfect way to raise money and awareness about the needs of the region’s most vulnerable.

Pema says a neighborly feel and strong sense of community drew the couple to Sisters. “We are very thankful for the support the Sisters community has showered upon us. Recently, a customer who was vacationing at Suttle Lake told me that businesses, locals, and tourists they met recommended High Camp.

They loved our food and hospitality, and said they’ll visit us every time they’re in Sisters. We’re so happy we’re able to bring Himalayan hospitality to Sisters,” said Pema.

Being a citizen of the world is one of the couple’s focuses for the restaurant. They also see food as medicine.

“We believe our thoughts and energy flavor the food and enhance its nutritional value,” said Pema. “Therefore, we cook with gratitude, joy, and love.”

Having moved from Nepal and traveled to other places around the world, the couple also uses their philosophy to describe the work they’re doing to make life better for those in need.

Educational opportunities changed Pema’s life. Offering that gift to others tugs strongly at her heart.

“I believe educating kids is one of the most valuable things we can offer to the children of the world,” said Pema, who moved to Bend in 2000. “I left to go to dental hygiene school and travelled to do humanitarian work in

Nepal as well as temporary hygiene work around the U.S.,” she said.

Pema also volunteers at Central Oregon Community College and Kemple dental clinics.

It was working in Sisters’ dental offices that first got Pema interested in Sisters.

“I never stopped on my way to Portland. But when I worked for Dr. Rheuben and Dr. Frideres at Sisters Dental, I really enjoyed the people I met. It reminded me of my village, where people cared for each other and were supportive and much more calm. It made me feel more at home. When we were looking for a house to buy, we met Art Pope and Leslie Kent from Sisters, who’d traveled a lot in Nepal. They gave us many of the photographs we have in the restaurant. They treated us like family and invited us into their home where we met many of their friends,” said Pema.

Another local person who has gotten involved with the Sherpas’ humanitarian work is Ann O’Leary. She’s helping the couple establish their 501(c)(3) status as a nonprofit organization. With that in place, they’ll be able to raise more funds to provide for those most in need.

On March 4, High Camp will celebrate the Sherpas’ New Year, called Losar. The traditional Sherpa’s meal will be served as guests celebrate positive changes made in the past and a chance for a new beginning. The celebration will benefit children of the Musahar community in

Nepal. Tickets are $75 per person for a four-course Sherpa meal and a drink. Guests can RSVP until March 3.

The couple has a long history of donating a portion of their business profits locally and to marginalized populations in Nepal.

“Throughout our lives we’ve tried to help the less fortunate, by taking resources over to Nepal. Students don’t have mechanical pencils, pens, toothbrushes or balls to play with. There’s also a need for basic medical supplies

like Band Aids, Neosporin, aspirin, and Aleve.”

They also collect clothing and shoes for the elderly and children.

Another pressing need they discovered while in Nepal was a foster home for the elderly who either don’t have family or were abandoned. When Nurbu and Pema went there, the situation was terrible.

“They were sleeping on cardboard and had one basic

Pema and Nurbu are helping Musahar women learn how to sew.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pema and Nurbu Sherpa at High Camp Tap House.

PHOTO BY KATY YODER

Sisters company is nimble

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Mike Whitlatch has learned his business from the ground up — literally.

“I started out cleaning ducts and putting in duct work under houses,” he recalled.

With experience in every level of the business — from major commercial installations like Deschutes Brewery and St. Charles Hospital to residential applications — he has now launched his own company. Sisters Heating & Air took it’s first call last September, and they’ve been roiling ever since.

Sisters Heating & Air serves Sisters Country with residential and commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) — including air purification and humidification, system diagnostics, maintenance, replacements, and new installations. They also offer in-depth consultation services such as system load calculations, schematics, and construction.

Whitlatch’s values are straightforward, and he applies them to every job:

“We provide an exceptional product and service at a reasonable price,” he told The Nugget. “We hold a very high standard for both the products we sell, and the

craftsmanship that we put into working on them. We choose to exclusively carry the highest-rated brands, because we want our customers to have a great longterm experience. We go out of our way to perform work that is far beyond minimum requirements, not because we have to, but because we can. However, we’re able to provide this excellent service at a price that is still very competitive, because we are a small, nimble company with minimal overhead.

One of our core principles is to maintain this lightweight structure as we grow, so that we can continue to provide both value and quality to our customers.”

Whitlatch is a hands-on owner-operator, with Chris Biagi and Drew Herburger serving as the rest of the crew.

Hard work has always been Whitlatch’s way.

“I started working when I was 14 years old,” he said.

At 17, he was in tech sales — but he realized that he really wanted to work with his hands. He moved into automotive electronics, but found his prospects there limited. Discovering that a job in HVAC could mean a solid living, he applied at a company in Antioch, California, and got the gig.

“I just started grinding,

working 10- to 12-hour days,” he said.

Starting at the ground level and working up has given Whitlatch a strong foundation of experience on which to build.

“Where we really excel is on the technical and engineering side,” he explained. “In my 16 years working in HVAC service, I’ve seen a lot. If something can break, I probably have fixed it! This is critical when designing new systems, because my service experience helps me to anticipate what issues might arise. We take pride in engineering a system that is custom-designed for your unique situation. We do more than sell equipment: We create complete systems that we guarantee to work efficiently and last a long time.”

Whitlatch prides himself on looking at customers’ needs from an engineering standpoint.

“I go in with service eyes, not sales eyes,” he said. “In this industry, it’s all too common for companies to blindly throw new parts at a malfunctioning system, or replace it altogether, without having definitively identified the cause of the problem. I take it as a personal challenge to do the detective work needed to diagnose a problem. Without finding the true cause, a technician might only fix part of

the issue — or, they might replace an expensive part that was perfectly good! We have a duty to our customers to do our due diligence when diagnosing a problem. We will always go out of our way to offer our customer a range of options, and guide rather than pressure you into the best choice.”

Whitlatch is very happy to have found his place in Sisters.

“When my wife, Emerald, and I were searching for a place to start our family together, Sisters was the obvious choice,” he told

The Nugget. “The variety of natural beauty is incomparable, and so are the endless outdoor activities. Sisters’ relaxed Western town atmosphere reminds me of my roots, mining in the Northern California mountains. So many members of the local community have welcomed us as friends, and we are eager to give back.”

For more information visit https://sistersheating air.com or email info@ SistersHeatingAir.com. For urgent assistance, call 541588-5667 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mike Whitlatch has founded Sisters Heating & Air with an ethic of excellent service.

Obituary

Mable Lucille (Lucy) Grittman

March 11, 1935 – February 7, 2023

On Tuesday, February 7, 2023, Mable Lucille (Lucy) Grittman, loving wife and mother of two, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 87. She is survived by her husband, Gary Grittman, and children Virginia (Ginger) Nies and Kevin Grittman. Lucy was the loving and adoring Grammy of eight grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Bryan Nies (one child), Jennifer Rhodes (two children), Daniel Grittman (one child), Kristin Nies-Butler (three children), Jacklyn Christmas (four children), Andrew Grittman, Sean Cruz (three children), and Shelby Grittman (three children).

Lucy was born Mable Lucille Starr the daughter of John and Leota Starr, on March 11, 1935, in Zearing Iowa. She was the middle child and had five siblings, of which they all preceded her in death, Bertha, Cathy, Charlotte, Dorothy and John. The family followed John around the country to wherever he could find work. Moving was a part of growing up at that time. The family ended up in Oregon, where a young Lucy met Gary Grittman for the first time.

Gary and Lucy said “I do” for the first time on June 8, 1956. They divorced after 20 years but they couldn’t stay apart, and in 1992, they remarried and have been together ever since. TRUE LOVE! Over 50-plus years of marriage and sharing a beautiful life together. Gary and Lucy raised their child around the Portland/Hillsboro area.

They enjoyed annual family vacations and family functions throughout the year. Lucy worked from very early on with the telephone company and ended up at Pacific Northwest Bell and made it her career.

She found a home nestled among the ponderosa pines at the base of the Three Sisters mountains in Sisters before retiring and simply fell in love with the quaint little Western town.

Surrounded by the wildlife, her home blanketed in the still, starry nights of the Sisters wilderness, she was already in Heaven.

She spent many hours on the trails in the area on her horses, one of her many passions.

She was an avid bowler locally, statewide, and nationally, over 40 years!

Lucy Loved trips to Reno, specially with family or friends, often going about four times a year! Lucy and Gary were “snowbirds” as often as possible and took every opportunity to take trips to Arizona with her brother-in-law and sisterin-law beginning around 1995.

Lucy most enjoyed spending time with family and friends, hosting and cooking for anyone who happened to find themselves at her door. She has opened her doors to many family and friends over the years, she’s cared for and nursed loved ones, and brought great comfort and joy to all who knew her. Gary and Lucy spent a full life together with yearly family

camping trips to Suttle Lake and cherished family gatherings in their warm, loving home for Christmas and many other occasions over the years.

She volunteered for many clubs and events over the decades, Sisters Rodeo, Sisters Garden Club, and she very much enjoyed spending time with her reading buddies at the SMART program with Sisters Elementary School for a number of years.

Lucy spent her final days at home surrounded by family. She found great comfort and joy in the love she had shared with others over her lifetime and in her final days.

In celebrating the way Lucy lived her life, the family asks if anyone wishes to remember Lucy that you make a donation to a club, organization, or group in her name that she enjoyed or that she may have shared with you. Even better, join a group and embrace your community. Do this in honor of the many ways we can share our love, friendship, and fellowship with others just as Lucy did. Lucy: Wife, Mom, Grammy, Aunt, and Friend. She will be greatly loved and missed. May she forever rest in peace.

ROBBERY: Man used Airsoft gun in alleged theft

Continued from page 1

Deputies conducted additional interviews with people in homeless camps near the area and determined Roy had approached a man at his camp. Roy pointed what appeared to be a handgun and later brandished a knife at this man, and ordered him to give him two backpacks and his sleeping bag, which the camper complied with.

Roy took those items then went to another camp, cut a tarp and a tent, and ransacked the camp. Deputies searched the area and recovered the two stolen backpacks and the sleeping bag, which had been abandoned by Roy in the forest. Deputies also discovered the camp that had been damaged by Roy.

Based upon this information, deputies re-contacted Roy, who was still in the area, and put him in custody without incident. Roy was lodged at the DCSO jail on multiple charges: Robbery in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Menacing, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree, Theft in the Second Degree.

The handgun was later determined to be an airsoft pistol; it was not recovered by deputies.

A NNOUNCEMENT S

Fireside Story Evening on Februar y 21

ree Sisters Historical Societ y will host an exciting evening with Aurolyn Stw yer of Warm Springs who will share her Celilo cultural heritage, including bead work , textiles , jewelry, and dance. FivePine Conference Center. Doors open 6 p.m., presentation at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door, or f ree to Historical Society members. Call 541-610 -6323 for reser vations.

Weekly Food Pantry

e Wellhouse Church has a weekly food pantr y on ursdays , now beginning at 3 p.m. Both drive-through pick-up and shopping-st yle distribution available. Call 541-549-4184

Parkinson’s Support Group

Are you a person experiencing Parkinson’s disease (PD) or a care par tner/ family member desiring to better support your loved one with PD? We invite you to join our support group to experience f riendship, shared experiences , and a better understanding of PD. Please join us the second ursday of the month 1-2:30 p.m. at the Sisters Library, 110 N Cedar St. Sisters . For more information contact Carol Pfeil, program coordinator of Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon, 541-6 68-6599 or carol@parkinsonsresources.or

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Family Caregiver Support Group

elma’s Place Adult Day Respite Program in Redmond hosts a monthly support group for those caring for someone with Alzheimer ’s or another dementia-related disease. e support group is held ever y third Wednesday of the month f rom 4:30-5:30 p.m. is is a f ree f amilycaregiver support group featuring local organizations

Call 541-548-3049

Free Weekly Meal Service

Family Kitchen is hosting a weekly to-go hot meal ser vice on Tuesdays , 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Sisters Communit y Church Visit www FamilyKitchen.org

Sisters Careg iver Support Group

A f acilitated support group for caregivers of those with chronic or life-shor tening diseases meets 10 to 11:30 a.m on the third Tuesday of ever y month at Sisters Episcopal Church. For information, call 541-7190031, ask for Kay

ARTifacts T-shirts on sale

Event T-shirts are on sale now at bit ly/Artif acts . Shirts can be picked up at the ARTif acts event Tuesday, April 18, 6-8 p.m. in the Sisters High School commons . Proceeds benefit SHS Arts Depar tment supply f und and SHS Visual Arts Senior Scholarship. Questions? Email bethany gunnarson@ssd6.org.

Free Lunches for Seniors

For those 60+, the Council on Aging of Central Oregon o ers a fun, no-cost social lunch ever y Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Communit y Church. No reservations needed. No-cost Grab-N-Go lunches take place weekly Wednesdays and ursdays at Sisters Communit y Church 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367.

Go Fish Group

Je Perin, the owner of Fly Fishers Place, will present a program on fly fishing the Metolius. e meeting will take place on Monday Februar y 20 at 7 p.m. at Sisters Communit y Church. Cont act Gar y Kutz for more information, 541-771-2211.

Museum is reopening!

e Sisters Museum, brought to you by the ree Sisters Historical Society, will be reopening on Februar y 17. Returning to regular hours of 10 a .m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays , they are looking for volunteers with an interest in Sisters history. Please call 541-5491403 or email volunteer@ threesistershistoricalsociet y. org to find out more.

Sisters Habitat Board Openings

e Sisters Habit at Board has openings for people passionate about building desp erately needed a ordable housing in Sisters

We are seeking a diverse representation of community members with a variet y of talents. Board members serve for three-year terms . If you are interested in ser ving on the board you can email info@sistershabitat.org or call the Habit at o ce at 541549-1193 to contact Board President, Joe Rambo

Sisters Communit y Garden

Opens Applications

Join Sisters Community Garden and reser ve a place to grow your favorite vegetables , flowers and herbs . Applications for new and existing members are available through March 1 Returning gardeners have until that date to reser ve the same raised bed they used last year. e application, release of liability form, garden rules and f urther information are located on the group’s website at sisterscommunitygarden org. Email questions to SistersCommunityGarden@ gmail.com or call 503-6800691

Free Pet Food Budget tight this month, but you still need pet food for your dog or cat? Call the Furr y Friends pet food bank at 541-797-4023 to schedule your pickup. Pickups available ursdays , beginning at 12:30 p.m. Located at 412 E Main Ave., Ste. 4, behind e Nug get

PET OF THE WEEK

Humane Societ y of Central Oregon 541-382-3537

Veteran weighs in on balloons and air defense

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Sugar Pie

Yes , I am truly a sweetheart, but I do have a few ver y simple demands: I require endless love, a warm lap, a few cat toys , and a bit of daily adoration I have enjoye d the company of other cats , yet if you have a dog at home they should be completely subser vient to my wishes at all times I think that about sums it up. All good? Okay then, I will go home with you!

— SPONSORED BY —

Sisters resident Jim Cunningham knows a thing or two about air defense. As a brigadier general in command of the Oregon National Guard from 2000 to 2006, he was responsible for patrolling the skies above the state, on the lookout for intrusion by any hostile force. He held that command in the tense days in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the U.S.

As the U.S. shot down four “objects” — at least two of them clearly balloons — in the space of 10 days earlier this month, Cunningham has been looking on with interest. From his standpoint, there is no arguing that the balloon shot down over South Carolina waters was anything but a surveillance device.

“I don’t think it was, I know it was,” Cunningham told The Nugget. “It’s beyond circumstantial evidence now.”

BROKEN TOP Veterinar y Clinic 541-389-0391

SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES

Baha’i Faith Currently Zoom meetings: devotions , course trainings , informational firesides. Local contac t Shauna Rocha

541- 647-9826 • www.bahai.org or www.bahai.us

Wellhouse Churc h

442 Trinit y Way • 541-549-4184 ht tps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com

10 a .m. Sunday Worship

e Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration

68825 Bro ok s Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087

8:30 a .m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship

10 :15 a .m. Episcopal Sunday Worship www.transfiguration-sister s.org

Sisters Church of the N az arene

67130 Har ring ton Loop Rd . • 541-389-8960 www.sistersnaz .org • info@sistersnaz .org

10 a .m. Sunday Worship

Sisters Communit y Church (Nondenominational)

130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy. • 541-549-1201

9:30 a .m. Sunday Worship www.sisterschurch.com • info@sisterschurch.com

Sunday Worship • www.ccsisters.org

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

386 N . Fir St. • 541-595-6770, 541-306 -8303

11 a .m. S aturday Worship

Cunningham rejects the idea that the first balloon was a scientific launch with which the Chinese lost communications, a possibility presented last week in The Nugget by Steven Peterzen, who has conducted stratospheric ballooning missions for three decades. Cunningham notes that the balloon “loitered” over Malmstrom, F.E. Warren, and Whiteman Air Force bases.

“How do you explain stationary positioning over strategic targets?” he said.

Based on his background and experience, what does Cunningham believe the balloon was up to?

“My 32 years of prosecuting the air defense mission tells me that this specific balloon was launched in order to gather data and probe our defense reaction once it was detected,” he said.

As of press time, it was unclear what the subsequent

Cunningham

BALLOONS: Former air commander sees China threat

Continued from page 10

three objects shot down by U.S. planes were or who they belonged to.

Cunningham believes that the spate of shoot-downs is designed to send a geopolitical message, “to show (People’s Republic of China President Xi Jinping) and (Russian President) Vladimir Putin that we can respond and we have resolve.”

Showing resolve is important to Cunningham, who believes that the U.S. has failed to do so at critical junctures. He cites the August 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan as a case in point. He believes that the U.S. did need to leave the country where we had been fighting for two decades — but how we left, he believes, sent a dangerous message — abandoning allied personnel, billions of dollars in equipment, and strategic assets, primary among them Bagram Air Base.

“That was almost as consequential as the shot at Lexington and Concord the ‘Shot Heard ’Round the World’,” he said. “I think the East interpreted that as the United States is in decline now.”

Cunningham considers the People’s Republic of China to be not merely an adversary, but an enemy, and showing lack of resolve before an enemy makes the U.S. vulnerable. He also believes that the U.S. has erred in “outsource(ing) critical strategic resources,” including rare earth materials, pharmaceuticals, and semi-conductors.

Cunningham cited another strategic reason for shooting down the objects.

“The other thing is to gather and reverse engineer the equipment these balloons were carrying,” he said.

Jim Cunningham

The retired general and commercial airline pilot said that if he had been giving the orders, he would have shot down the first balloon over Eastern Montana, which he believes would have been safe, and facilitated easy recovery of the payload. Shooting it down over the Aleutian Islands in Alaskan airspace would have put it into deep, cold waters unsuitable for a recovery operation. The area off South Carolina where the balloon did come down allows for payload recovery by the equivalent of a commercial dive.

While the incidents of the past two weeks have exacerbated an already fraught U.S./Chinese relationship, Cunningham doesn’t expect the flurry of incidents to continue indefinitely.

“Now, it’s going to be pretty hard for anything to get in,” he said.

He does not believe any serious damage was done to American security.

“I’d say we got caught with our pants down to a minor degree,” he said. “Was much damage done? I don’t think so.”

Cunningham remains highly confident in the capabilities of U.S. air defense particularly the unit he once commanded in Oregon.

“The best air defense system on the globe resides in this country,” he said. “You can take it to the bank. We’re the best at what we do.”

Sisters to welcome astrophotographer

Sisters Astronomy Club’s next meeting will feature astrophotographer Bill McLaughlin on Tuesday, February 21, at 7 p.m. The meeting will be “hybrid,” with the opportunity for attendees to meet at the Sisters Park & Recreation District’s Coffield Center, 1750 McKinney Butte Rd. or on Zoom: bit.ly/ astrophotographer-bill.

McLaughlin has been an astrophotographer since the early 1990s, starting with strips of plastic stuff called “film.” He soon discovered that since he was lazy, film was too much work so he quickly moved to the thennew hobby of electronic astro-imaging. He is a cofounder and co-builder of three amateur observatories, but since that was also too much work, he now has only his backyard observatory as well as a spot in an amateur hosting observatory in California.

In the early 2000s, McLaughlin wrote several articles for Sky and Telescope and Astronomy magazines and has had numerous published astrophotos and a couple of magazine covers. He discovered that was also too much work, so these days he only takes photos for his own enjoyment and to use in the talks that he occasionally gives when he gets around to it.

McLaughlin will be talking about the history of astrophotography and how it has grown along with his interest in the subject, and how modern technology has enabled the rapid growth of the hobby. He will also show a number of his images.

Th r ee Sister s Hist or ical Society FIRESIDE SERIES

Sisters-Area Events & Enter tainment

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Suttle Lodge Fireside Music by Jenner Fox

6-8 p.m. Reservations required; tickets at bendticket.com. For more information: info@thesuttlelodge.com.

FRIDAY • FEBRUARY 17

The Belfr y Live Music by Jenner Fox Band with special guest Skybound Blue opening Doors open at 7, music at 7:30. A recent favorite at Sisters Folk Festival, Jenner Fox evokes tears and laughter with his thoughtful and poignant songwriting Seated show with full band. Tickets: belfryevents.com/events/.

Hardtails Karaoke with KJ Mindy

8 p.m. to 12 a.m. For more information call 541-549-6114.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Suttle Lodge Fireside Music by Dave and Melody Hill 6-8 p.m. Reservations required; tickets at bendticket.com. For more information: info@thesuttlelodge.com.

Paulina Springs Books Community Poetr y Open Mic Night & Book Talk Share a poem you have written, or one you love, then listen to featured poet Donna Henderson present “Send Word,” 6:30 p.m. Info: PaulinaSpringsBooks.com.

FRIDAY • FEBRUARY 24

Hood Avenue Art Going To The Beach Galler y Show

Aurolyn Stwyer of Warm Springs will be sharing her deep knowledge of the cultural heritage of her Celilo ancestry She is a business and community leader known for teaching, lecturing, mentoring, and volunteering. She is an accomplished artist — including bead work, textiles, jewelry, and dance — and will be incorporating many of these talents to bring us an exciting evening!

MARCH 28: Jim Crowell presents “An Insider’s View of Local Logging, Lumber & Milling”

APRIL 25: Lorie Hancock presents “If the Trees Could Speak: Stories of Camp Sherman”

— TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 — Cultural Stories & Artistry of a Native American Reservations: 541-610-6323

Tickets are $10 at the Door (Free to TSHS members)

FivePine Conference Center 1021 E. Desperado Trail, Sisters 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. Seating is first-come, first-served

4 to 6:30 p.m. Live music by Sisters Ukulele Club 357 W. Hood Ave. More info: 541-719-1800

Paulina Springs Books Book Talk Paul Alan Bennett presents “HUG: A Visual Chronicle of Our Need to Touch.” 6:30 p.m. Info: PaulinaSpringsBooks.com.

Hardtails Karaoke with KJ Mindy

8 p.m. to 12 a.m. For more information call 541-549-6114.

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 25

The Belfr y Live Music by Henhouse Prowlers with Ky Burt 7 p.m. Henhouse Prowlers are Bluegrass Ambassadors. Tickets at BendTicket.com.

THURSDAY • MARCH 2

Suttle Lodge Fireside Music by Scout Harris Band 6-8 p.m. Reservations required; tickets at bendticket.com. For more information: info@thesuttlelodge.com.

Paulina Springs Books Book Talk Local thriller/mystery writers Frank Zafiro and Jamie Lee Fry read from their new works “Hope Dies Last” and “The Liar ’s Club.” 6:30 p.m.

Picture of Galaxy NGC 660 that Bill McLaughlin took through his telescope in California.

PHOTO BY BILL MCLAUGHLIN

The best air defense system on the globe resides in this country. —

Outlaws basketball team loses two tough games

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Outlaws lost both their games on the road this past week; a 63-47 loss at Pleasant Hill on Tuesday, February 7, and three days later a 60-41 loss at Creswell.

On Tuesday, the No. 2 Outlaws (7-2) faced the No. 3 Billies (6-3). It was a big game for the Outlaws, as a win would put the Billies two games behind them. Pleasant Hill started off hot and quickly took a 0-6 lead before Taine Martin made a bucket on a pass from Mehkye Froehlich to get the Outlaws on the board. At the close of the quarter the Outlaws were down seven, 7-14.

Teams traded baskets in the second period and play was fairly even. The Outlaws climbed to within six points, but then the Billies hit a long ball at the buzzer to go up by nine at the break.

Sisters got to within seven on a fast-break basket by Adam Maddox-Castle in the first minute of the third quarter. However, the Outlaws only scored five more points in the quarter, while the Billies exploded with 22 points in the period behind six Outlaws turnovers.

The fourth quarter didn’t get any better for the Outlaws. The Billies scored the first four points of the period, which put the Outlaws down by 28, their largest deficit of the game. With seven minutes left on the clock, Sisters swapped their starting players with their second unit.

The Billies kept their main players in the game and the Outlaws’ reserves stepped up to the challenge, and outscored Pleasant Hill 15-7 during that stretch.

When the Billies’ reserves did enter the game, the Outlaws’ reserves outscored them 6-2 to close out the game. Sisters’ second unit ended up cutting the Billies’ lead from 28 to 16 while they were on the floor. The run was led by Brody Fischer, who scored nine points in the run, including two three-pointers.

The Outlaws hit a total of four long balls from behind the arc, including Levi Szesze and Austin Dean, who also connected from long range.

Fischer led the Outlaws with 15 points, followed by Martin and Landon Scott, who each scored six. Szesze contributed five points, Froehlich scored four, and Kale Gardner, Austin Dean, and Jessey Murillo added three points each.

Coach Chad Rush said, “This was a tough game for us. We just weren’t quite able to consistently handle the tough, physical pressure Pleasant Hill put on us all night. I was proud of our second unit tonight for stepping up in the fourth quarter when Pleasant Hill still had their main players in the game and were pressing us in the full court. It was a great sign to see some of the depth that the team has. We will move on from this, learn from our mistakes, and work hard in practice to correct our difficulties against pressure.”

In Friday’s matchup at Creswell the Outlaws lost by 19.

The Bulldogs entered the game as the No. 1 team in the Mountain Valley Conference with a 9-1 record. Their only loss was to the Outlaws in the first round on January 20 in Sisters. The game went back and forth the first few minutes with teams trading baskets. Gardner got the Outlaws on the board in the first minute of play with a nice backdoor cut layup from Adam Maddox- Castle. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs went on a 10-5 run and closed out the period with an 11-point lead.

Teams played even in the second period, with both squads putting up 12 points on the scoreboard. Gardner again got Sisters’ scoring started, this time with a highly contested driving layup. Brody Fischer led the Outlaws with

eight points in the quarter, including two long balls from behind the arc. Fischer’s first three-pointer was off a baseline out-of-bounds play where Gardner found him open in the corner. The next possession, Maddox-Castle found him open on the opposite wing for his second three-pointer, which brought the Outlaws to within eight points with 1:30 left in the period. Creswell scored again and at the half the Outlaws trailed 24-35.

The Outlaws struggled to score in the third period, and could only muster six points. Sisters held the Bulldogs to nine points to keep the game within striking distance. Scott scored the first four points for the Outlaws and MaddoxCastle finished the scoring with a steal and transition layup with 2:30 left in the quarter. The layup brought the Outlaws to within 13 points, the closest they would get for the remainder of the game.

Sisters kept fighting in the final quarter against the very talented Bulldog squad. Gardner and Scott both hit three-pointers, and the Outlaws kept at it, but it just

wasn’t enough to close the gap.

Rush said, “We knew going into this game that it was going to take a great effort to beat the fully healthy Bulldogs on their home floor. Coming off a disappointing performance on Tuesday night at Pleasant Hill, I was pleased to see the guys respond with grit and determination tonight. We didn’t get the win, but I felt we played hard and made strides towards preparing us for next week.”

The loss secured the third spot for the Outlaws in the final league standings.

Gardner led the Outlaws with 12 points, Scott followed with nine points and two steals, and Fischer scored eight. Maddox-Castle tallied five points and had four steals. Froehlich recorded four points, and Jessey Murillo posted three points and led the team with 10 rebounds.

The Outlaws were scheduled to play at home against La Pine on Monday, February 13. They will host La Pine again on Thursday evening in the first round of league playoffs.

I was pleased to see the guys respond with grit and determination.

— Coach Chad Rush

LETTERS

Continued from page 2

community. As a resident of Central Oregon for the better part of over 50 years and of the Sisters Country for over 20, I’ve seen the area change from a clean, low-crime, and affordable place to live and raise a family, to the cluttered, drug-infested pit toilet that many came here to escape from.

Sadly, most brought with them the same messed-up ideology that destroyed the places they left. Oregon has been successfully “Californicated.”

At the turn of the 20th century, a few isolated, relatively pristine islands of livability still existed. One of those was Sisters Country. But, in the name of “progress” and “growth,” the pristine nature and livability of Sisters Country have been and continue to be eroded. I don’t live in the city of Sisters, so I’ve been a bit less affected by erosion — until now.

Now, no place in Central Oregon is safe from the assault by major developers wanting to build tourist attractions, unwanted infrastructure, and water-guzzling “destination resorts” to the area. All of these have overstressed our quality of life. Folks, the high desert was never intended to support this many thousands of people. The high-desert ecology is far too fragile.

Water is the Achilles heel of the high-desert country. The land and the flora and fauna (humans included) here live in a delicate balance. We are now in an extreme drought. Overdevelopment is depleting the aquifers that streams and the established populations of native species and humans needs to survive. More and more people consuming more and more ground water isn’t sustainable.

Growth for the sake of growth is not a good thing. We don’t need more new businesses, more mega-gas stations, or more population. The unchecked growth of population and development do not improve quality of live or livability; the opposite, in fact, is true.

Rather than spend our tax dollars on trying to attract more people, our community leaders should be trying to figure out how the community can live in harmony with the resources we have (yeah, we country folks and you city slickers have to share the same water source). Folks in our government that are clamoring for more growth, more businesses, need to either come to their senses or be voted out and fired. Just say no.

Harry Pollard

Henhouse Prowlers bring bluegrass to Sisters

The bluegrass outfit Henhouse Prowlers will hit the stage at The Belfry in Sisters on Saturday, February 25. The show is hosted by The Whippoorwill Presents.

Erik Fossmo says, “The Whippoorwill strives to enrich Central Oregon’s culture and build community by creating intimate live music experiences for artists and attendees.”

Henhouse Prowlers have performed in 27 countries on four continents. They were the 2010 RockyGrass Band Competition winners; 2013 Mountain Song at Sea “Battle for the Boat” winners; IBMA Official Showcasing act in 2019; and have played many festivals.

The Henhouse Prowlers are Bluegrass ambassadors — literally. Founded over 17 years ago with the simple desire to play original and powerful bluegrass, this quartet now finds itself at the intersection of performance, diplomacy, and education.

The Prowlers’ have traveled

the globe, working with the U.S. State Department and under their own nonprofit, Bluegrass Ambassadors — incorporating music from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and more into their already robust repertoire of unique traditional American music.

With over 175 shows a year, the quartet often performs in places traditional American music has never been. Tours in Siberia or the Middle East are not uncommon.

These global experiences have pushed the band in new directions musically, with songs from Africa and Asia on several albums, but they have also moved the group to start an educational outreach program for school children and festival-goers alike.

The Prowlers nonprofit uses traditional American music as an educational foundation to connect folk music and cultures all over the world. Having been to 11 countries in Africa alongside Russia, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, these powerful direct experiences with distant peoples and musicians have shaped the band’s worldview and shifted the group’s direction toward bridging cultural gaps through music, educational programs, and workshops. For more information visit https://bluegrassambass adors.org and https://www. henhouseprowlers.com.

Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are available through bendticket.com.

The Belfry is located at 302 W. Main Ave. in Sisters.

Henhouse Prowlers are literal Bluegrass ambassadors, playing internationally in cultural exchanges.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sisters Country birds

By Douglas Beall Correspondent

Our most common owl is the Great Horned Owl, [Bobo Virginianus]. A nocturnal hunter, they hunt silently, gliding over fields and woodlands in search of mostly small mammals. However Great Horned Owls (GHOs) will also prey on other owls, hawks, snakes, and young alligators. Over 250 prey species have been identified. They are native to a large geographic range that covers most of North America and extends south into Central and South America.

Males hoot throughout the year, but females only hoot during mating season.

Great Horned Owls begin their mating behavior of hooting, screeching, bowing, and rubbing beaks in December. They begin

Two wrestlers qualify for State

nesting in January, and they often take over other animal or bird nests or tree cavities and do not build their own. One to six white eggs are laid and gestated for 26 to 35 days. Both parents bring food to the nest. The owlets start roaming the nest at six to seven weeks and are called “branchers.” They fledge at about nine to 10 weeks.

A very aggressive owl, they maintain their territories up to eight years. In captivity GHOs have lived up to 38 years, however in the wild 13 years is common. Their only natural enemies are other Great Horned Owls. Groups of owls are referred to as a “parliament,” a “stare,” a “study,” or a “wisdom.”

For more GHO images visit http://abirdsings becauseithasasong.com/ recent-journeys.

By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent

Two seniors will be representing Sisters High School at the OSAA 3A Wrestling Championships February 17 and 18, based on their performance at the 3A Special District 4 tournament held at Riverside High School.

Hayden Kunz qualified in the 145-pound class, which surprisingly included just five wrestlers. Kunz punched his ticket to State with a second-place finish by taking down Andrew Barnes of Burns (4:36) in the second round, and then moving on to the championship match where he faced another Highlander, Carter Lundy. Lundy beat Kunz for the title by fall (3:18).

Senior Ben Cooper took the long way around to qualify for State in the 152-pound class. After opening with a win over Wesley Graham of Burns, which took just 1:04 seconds, Cooper then lost to Garrett Forbes of La Pine (3:39), which sent him to the consolation round in the hope of a third-place finish. William Harris of Riverside gave Cooper some trouble, but the senior prevailed by fall (5:10) to set up a rematch with Graham.

Cooper dispatched Graham a second faster than the first round and claimed the thirdplace medal and a spot at State.

“I am so proud to be taking our two seniors to the state tournament,” said Head Coach David Kemp.

The rest of the team all placed in the top five.

After a first-round bye, Carter Van Meter took just under two minutes to take down Allen Jordan of La Pine in the 120-pound division. He then faced eventual champion Canon Winn of Burns who pinned Van Meter at the 1:56 mark. Van Meter bounced back for fifth place by beating Jordan for a second time, this time in just 35 seconds.

The 132-pound freshman Tyson Kemp faced Landyn Philpott of La Pine after a first-round bye, and lost to the eventual champion by fall (1:29). In the consolation round, Kemp overcame Thomas Rodriguez of Vale (5:43), but lost by fall in just 22 seconds to Cooper Yensen of McGloughlin, who went on to finish third, while Kemp settled for fifth.

Scott Henderson faced some tough competition in the 170-pound class and

came up just short of a State berth. Cache Montgomery of La Pine sent Henderson to the consolation round with a win by fall (3:09), which set up a match against Francisco Delarosa of McGloughlin. Henderson took care of business in just 1:27 and advanced to meet Ryan Richardson of Nyssa. Henderson won again by fall (2:30) and met Joe Weil of Burns with berth to State at stake in the third-place match. It was not meant to be for the junior, as Weil got the victory by fall (4:19), leaving Henderson to try again next year with a fourth-place finish.

Freshman Jace Owens picked up quality varsity experience at 152 pounds, according to Kemp, and finished fifth. Owens lasted just 24 seconds against the eventual champion Hunter Kemper of Burns in his first match, worked his way back to place fifth with a 5-1 decision against Willam Harris of Riverside.

“It was a great day for us to have all six of the boys place at District,” said Kemp. “What a night!”

The state championships will be held at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Portland.

1. Pick up a specially labeled BLUE BAG from the porch of Furr y Friends or The Nugget.

2. Fill the bag with Oregonredeemable bottles and cans. (Max 20 lbs. per bag.)

3. Drop off at any BottleDrop location including Ray’s in Sisters (scan code on bag to open door), or on The Nugget’s porch (now on the right side). Mail

PHOTO BY DOUGLAS BEALL

Skiers close out Emerald League with top finishes

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Sisters Outlaws boys and girls ski teams closed out the final Emerald League Alpine ski race of the season with first-place finishes at Willamette Pass on Saturday, February 11. The race was a slalom event held under sunny skies. In round one, the snow was cold and fast but did become warmer and softer in the afternoon.

On the boys side, Bela Chladek was the combined first-place winner of the day, with a time of 1:44.78. Brody Duey took fourth (2:05.70), Gus Patton fifth (2:06.59), Spencer Tisdel seventh (2:09.27), Emerson Backus ninth (2:15.37), and Cooper Merrill rounded out Sisters’ scoring with a 14th-place finish and a time of 2:23.63.

Morgan Shaw of Ridgeview again was the first-place finisher on the girls side with a combined time of 1:52.95. Outlaws’ Presley Adelt was runner-up with a time of 2:02.83. Ella Eby took third (2:07.31), Rebecca Clausen fifth (2:09.47), Charlotte Seymour sixth (2:13.49), Ava Riehle eighth (2:14.28), and Tatum Cramer filled out Sisters’ final varsity time with an 11th-place finish and a time of 2:24.05.

Coach Gabe Chladek told The Nugget that the courses were technically very different between the first and second runs.

“The Outlaws’ top racers showed their depth of skill by adapting their technique

Bull by Bull

By Judy Bull Columnist

between run one and run two,” said Chladek. “Good edge pressure from staying stacked over their skis worked great on the hard morning snow of run one, and then fast footwork and quick reactions were the right thing on run two with the warmer snow and the faster core set.”

The JV racers also continue to improve. On the boys side Jack Turpen led the Outlaws, followed by John Berg, Joseph Derksen, and Kellen Petke. Freshman Payton Adelt led the JV girls, followed by Mae Roth, Brooke Duey, Lauren Sitz, Teagen Welsh, Kate Singleton, Pidge Henderson, Freda Peterson, and Annie Cohen.

Coach Gabe Chladek noted two racers who were disqualified, but who are consistently pushing themselves for a firstplace finish.

“Corbin Fredland was skiing a really fast line on run one when he hooked a gate and disqualified,” said Chladek. “On the second run he scored a 56.61 for a second-place finish on that run. Tallis Grummer has also been pushing her personal limits in an effort to get a first-place finish and disqualified on her first run, but got a single-run time of 59.67 on her second run, for a third-place finish on that run.”

Chladek added, “You’ve got to really respect these athletes that are taking their skills to the limit in an effort to move up.”

The Outlaws will head to Mount Ashland for the Southern League Invitational race next weekend.

• The first things I dropped when we moved to Central Oregon were Gs. My mom was an English major at the University of Oregon, and she let me know how disappointed she was by my lack of proper pronunciation. Somehow, though, I felt the cadence of droppin’ Gs fit better in Central Oregon.

The other thing my mom couldn’t abide was living on an unpaved country road. “I would never live on a road like this,” said she. Her loss.

A while back, I had a reunion of sorts; pizza with many of my old friends at Transfiguration. It’s been years since I was the parish secretary there, yet the saints and I picked right up where we left off, including lots of laughter and talk about our dogs.

• My dog Bingo always knows what’s coming by the socks I put on. Big, heavy winter socks means we’re staying indoors. The Carhartts mean we’re going out to the barn and surrounds, and colorful, funky socks mean Mama’s takin’ her love to town, so to speak.

• Within minutes of the

Queen’s death, there were rainbows over Balmoral Castle. Days later, as her coffin was being removed from the hearse into the yard of St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, a ray of sunlight broke through the clouds alighting on her coffin. And, as if that wasn’t enough, there came the perfect last salute. There was total silence as the coffin was being moved toward the Cathedral entrance, though the area was filled with the Queen’s Guards. There was not a sound to be heard until a horse blew his nose close to a microphone. Fit for the Queen, we could all hear his goodbye.

• There is never a good time for the TV remote to die. Trust me, though, there is a very bad time for it to go on the fritz: three days before election day. I spent two evenings getting up and down ad nauseam to dodge the ubiquitous political candidates’ ads before I was able to get a replacement remote. Though it was maddening beyond words, it was also some of the best evening exercise I’ve had in years.

• When the kid at the car wash brought my 32-year-

to drive an old car,” which I took as a compliment. I put new tires on said old car last month, which quite possibly could be the last set I’ll need, given the givens. I must say, besides feeling safer, the ride is much improved and I do like that new-tire smell.

• Wherever we live, I think the familiar sounds surrounding us are a huge part of living well. However, an unwelcome sound of late is well drilling. Over 36 years ago, we, too, were transplants from there. I can still remember The Bulletin paper guy giving us the evil eye as we rolled in pulling everything we owned including a couple of horses, a dog, and two cats. I get it. I do. But do we really have to use up what precious little water and land we still have before we put the “Welcome to Oregon” signs back up, circa 1962, with the words, “we hope you will enjoy your visit”?

• I feel like I’ve taken enough epic chances in my life, including moving to Central Oregon, such that I am enjoying simply taking a chance on some days as they come my way. And

DMO takes on tourism

By Sue Stafford Correspondent

For 47 years, the Sisters Chamber of Commerce has supported and promoted local businesses. For part of that time, they also had a contract with the City of Sisters to act as the local visitors center, and promote tourism.

With the City contract came a certain percentage of transient lodging tax dollars collected by local hotels, motels, and short-term rentals on behalf of the City.

In recent years, a new concept for promoting tourism has evolved worldwide known as destination management, which goes far beyond just attracting tourists to visit Sisters. Of importance is how does Sisters attract/welcome visitors in a viable and sustainable way while also respecting the needs and wishes of full-time residents.

Tourism can’t be separated from larger systems at play in the community, such as affordable housing, transportation and traffic, public facilities, local economy, and livability and sustainability. Citizens don’t want the town “loved to death.”

Tourism is a big driver for the Sisters economy, requiring coordination, planning, and collective action that could determine the course of the community’s future for decades to come. Too much or too little could have dire consequences for the town. Overmarketing and overconsumption of local natural resources could trample them. A lack of tourists would hurt local businesses.

Greg Willits, Explore Sisters destination management oranization (DMO) board chair, believes they will be able to nimbly adjust marketing strategies to avoid such possibilities. Managed like a private-sector business, the DMO can respond rapidly to changes in the

marketplace. With budgetary resources available, a stand-alone DMO board can approve shifts in a destination marketing plan rapidly if an opportunity presents itself (total solar eclipse) or a threat appears on the horizon (wildfire).

Tourism used to focus on the number of “heads in the beds.” Destination management is a growing trend that emphasizes connections, whether that be with the local people, businesses, culture, or food, and to leave places in a condition that maintains the locals’ quality of life and that future visitors can explore as well.

According to the articles of incorporation, the DMO’s primary purpose “is to increase livability and economic vitality through the development of intelligent management and stewardship of local (Sisters area) community natural and cultural resources, tourism, and outdoor recreation. The corporation will work to positively impact the City of Sisters community and surrounding areas through the advancement of tourism, and outdoor recreation, sustainability, and focusing on balanced fourseason visitation and overnight stays.”

Explore Sisters is an independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization with its own board of directors and a recently hired executive director, Scott Humpert. They will be financed by the transient lodging tax (TLT), which is added on to the cost of every room that is rented out to visitors. The TLT provides a way to equip the DMO with the revenue needed to promote visitation to the region.

The public will be hearing more about Explore Sisters once their business and strategic plans are in place. There is a great deal of behind-thescenes work going on at this time.

No longer acting as the visitors center, Sisters Chamber of Commerce will be able to devote all their time to activities supporting their members. Chamber members pay an annual fee to belong, with that money helping fund their activities.

The benefits to a business of joining the local chamber include networking opportunities with other businesses in the community and forming business relationships. When a business joins the Chamber, it will be listed in the Chamber’s online directory and could be highlighted in other Chamber publications. New business referrals may come through Chamber membership.

The Chamber exists to support the interests of its members. If there are proposed regulations that could impact small businesses, the Chamber will get involved.

When the Chamber was also acting as the visitors Bureau, they supervised creation of advertising promoting Sisters as a tourist destination, using the TLT funds. Their building served as a location where visitors could obtain brochures, maps, and information on places to see, dine, and stay. Staff attended trade shows to promote Sisters’ many attractions.

The contract between the City and Sisters Chamber of Commerce expired as of October 31, 2022. The Chamber vacated their old office on East Main Avenue and can now be found at 257 S. Pine St.

CORRECTION

The roster of Sisters Outlaws alpine skiers accompanying the story, “Sisters to host ski championships,” (The Nugget, February 8, page 3) left out two skiers: Jack Turpen, grade 10, and Teagen Welsh, grade nine.

Running trails...

Amy Margolis and her husband started the Sisters Country Running Club. They provided a shot of some fabulous-looking trail runners from the group’s Saturday trail run.

PHOTO COURTESY AMY MARGOLIS

GROWTH: Groundswell of concern is growing in Sisters

Continued from page 3

enough of overdevelopment with more to come. I have written many letters and comments to no avail.”

It’s not that Brooks advocates storming the Bastille, but her frustration is clear. And so it goes, up and down the growing thread.

Nugget stories have spawned other social media group discussions, such as one by Ann Thompson reacting negatively to the proposed expansion of the Space Age fueling station on Cascade.

Doug Wills in last week’s “Open Letter to City Hall,” (The Nugget, February 8, page 2) was clear and direct in his disapproval of the way he sees things headed, using the words “ugly” and “monster” twice each in his first two paragraphs. Booth and Wills are far from alone in rhetoric that is growing in volume and intensity.

At last Wednesday night’s gathering of the Sisters City Council, who were holding their regularly scheduled meeting and a workshop, about a dozen citizens presented themselves. Their comments centered mostly around STRs (short term rentals), tree removal, and reduction in wildlife habitat as a result of what they perceive as misguided planning decisions.

Mark Dickens, an attendee, told The Nugget following the meeting, “We had a good hearing of our concerns and I think we have a core group of 10 to 15 who will work closely

and diligently to articulate to Council and staff areas of impact needing to be addressed.”

He expects his group to offer substantive solutions or at a minimum a framework for more community involvement in the process.

Some in the assembly were proposing a moratorium on development until a number of town halls are held to gauge citizen sentiment.

When The Nugget engages in old-fashioned “men and women on the street” interviews, our takeaway is that “growth” and “development” have been conflated. Growth — the organic increase in a numerical base, e.g. population, housing units — is not the same thing as development — the change in use, appearance, location, or purpose, for example. There can be “development” without a necessary or corresponding change in size.

Wills, Booth, and others seem to be saying they do not like the way things are starting to look around town, with comments comparing Sisters to Bend. Or as Moina McMath Walton wrote in a letter to our editor on November 9, 2021, referring to the situation in Sisters as “Benditis.”

According to Dickens and Zenia Kuzma, also of Sisters, the solution may lie in a citizens’ initiative. The initiative process allows registered voters to place on the ballot any issue that amends the Oregon Constitution, the Oregon Revised Statutes, a local charter, or local ordinances. Essentially, an initiative allows the people to create new law apart from the legislature or a local governing body. i.e. the City of Sisters.

Dickens says that the idea of the initiative route was proposed, not by him, but in separate conversations with Councilors Gary Ross and Susan Cobb.

“It takes some of the heat off the Council,” Dickens said, “and puts it on the shoulders of the citizens.” Such strategies might eventually run afoul of State land-use regulations. (See related story, page 1.)

Booth, living in Tollgate, and Brookes, from Cloverdale, would be precluded from voting in any such initiative by virtue of jurisdiction — only those within the city limits can vote on City of Sisters matters. That invites the question as how much say or influence people living outside the city limits can have in limiting or restructuring growth and development inside the boundaries.

Booth said, “We shop in Sisters, we are subject to the increase in traffic. Watching

the trees get cut down and wildlife disrupted is a quality-of-life issue.”

Citizens gathered at City Hall last week. There is growing concern about development affecting the quality of life in Sisters Country.

PHOTO BY CEILI GATLEY

FIRESIDE: Aurolyn Stwyer will speak in Sisters February 21

Continued from page 3

management from University of Minnesota. Her entrepreneurial streak showed up early.

When she was 11, she was a softball player.

“They couldn’t strike me out,” she said with a smile,” because I had a small (strike) zone.”

It cost money to travel for games, and she quickly found a way to make some: She sold beadwork to a local store proprietor. And a career was born.

Stwyer is a teacher for the Museum of Warm Springs, teaching beading, jewelry, working with animal-derived textiles, and visual arts. She dances at major powwows across the country, and has been awarded championships at the Julyamsh Powwow, Pi-Ume-Sha Powwow, Yakama Treaty Days, and the Pendleton Round-Up.

One of her signatures is magnificent beaded horse regalia. She watched her mother and father put together traditional 19th century Plateau saddles — which resemble old-school Mexican saddles, and decided to do it herself. She researched the tradition at the High Desert Museum.

“The High Desert Museum has 30,000 items back-of-thehouse,” she said. “They just turned me loose.”

Stwyer doesn’t claim to

NEPAL: Trip to country is set for next November

Continued from page 6

meal a day. There were 220 people in that place at one time. We purchased meal replacement drinks that provide many of the nutrients they need, multivitamins, and blankets,” said Pema.

Currently Pema and Nurbu are implementing programs that provide educational and income-generating opportunities for the Musahar, an impoverished Untouchable community in Nepal who suffer significant discrimination.

“They’re our main focus. Being on the bottom of the Hindu caste system, many people don’t even know they exist. It’s not a place the tourists go. The Musahar don’t even know the Nepali national language, which isolates them even more. They’re oppressed and unable to communicate outside their village, so they’re stuck,” said Pema.

By investing wisely in the community, they hope to improve health and wellbeing for Musuhar women

be an ace horsewoman — but her sister is: Eliza Greene Redhouse is a hall-of-fame jockey at the Pendleton Round-up.

Another ace horsewoman is in her orbit. Stwyer traveled to Sisters last week with Shirley Allen, who is apprenticing in beadwork with Stwyer. Allen’s family are cowboys and prominent in rodeo.

At the Fireside Story Evening, Stwyer will explain the traditions of Plateau beadwork and what sets it apart from other native styles, including those from the Great Plains and the Southwest.

Teaching about the craft traditions of her people is a passion for Stwyer. She is also passionate about activism around the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women. Across North America, native women have been killed or have gone missing at a disproportionate

and children so they can break the centuries-old cycle they’re caught in.

Nurbu played a significant role in the eventual creation of Ten Friends, a nonprofit started by teachers Rand Runco and Mark LaMont.

“In 2002, we took high school kids to Nepal. The goal was to educate the students as well as teachers while volunteering. We collected school and medical supplies for the trip,” said Nurbu.

Living in the U.S., Nurbu found that many American teenagers tended to be self-centered.

“We wanted to open their eyes to the world and hopefully help them be more grateful and not take things for granted.” In Nepal children walk up to three hours each way, just to go to school.

“You have to walk many miles to get medical treatment, so the kids we took saw that. They did homestays and visited schools and clinics.

It really opened their eyes. Runco went with me for two years, then went on his own after forming Ten Friends.

Giving birth to Ten Friends is a success in my mind,” said Nurbu.

rate — a matter that is garnering attention now after being overlooked for many years. The issue is complicated by lack of investigative resources and jurisdictional conflicts between state, local, federal, and tribal law enforcement.

The issue strikes right in the heart for Stwyer. Another sister is among the missing.

She is working on a traditional shell dress in red, to honor and raise awareness of the missing and murdered.

“Red symbolizes the missing and murdered,” she said. “This dress is my way of grieving, my way of healing.”

The Three Sisters Historical Society Fireside Story Evening is set for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 21, at FivePine Lodge and Conference Center, 1021 E. Desperado Trail in Sisters. Tickets are $10 at the door (free to Historical Society members). To make reservations, call 541-610-6323.

This November, Nurbu is taking an adult trip to Nepal. There are a few seats still available. Anyone interested in joining the November trip can call the restaurant, 541-639-5322.

High Camp Taphouse offers Himalayan cuisine and Pacific Northwest beers and ciders. Starters include vegetable samosas, which are pastries with spiced potato and vegetables, or Himalayan fries seasoned with tomato sauce and fresh herbs. Main courses include curry dishes, Tibetan dumplings called momos and a noodle dish called chau chau. Most dishes can be vegan or vegetarian and many are gluten free. Deserts include Northwest famous Ruby Jewel ice cream sandwiches in five flavors. A kids’ menu is available as well. Musician Rick Smith often plays music for guests.

High Camp Taphouse is located at 523 E. Hwy. 20. RSVPs for the Losar fundraiser can be made by calling 541-904-4694. The event is from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 4. Visit https://www.highcamp taphouse.com.

February Poetry

Or egon October

Stella Dean

Spangled fish with wild hear ts undulate in deep pools

Mushr ooms huddle under gr ound

Hunter s c louded in mist seek home.

A Daughter’ s Vow

ByCherylPellerin

“In memoryof Joan Pellerin,mymother , whopassedaway lastyear from Alzheimer’s disease.”

Four year s ago, you… dr ove a car took your medications paid your bills sent birthday cards went out with friends

Thr ee year s ago, you… carried a cell phone r ead books and magazines knew what day of the week it was did your own laundry

Two year s ago, you… knew the name of our US pr esident could play the messages on your answering mac hine water ed your potted plants

One year ago, you….. took shower s and kept clean wr ote legibly recalled what you did minutes ear lier

Now, you… can’ t remember your gr andc hildren’s names put things in str ange places call me scar ed and confused as to wher e you should be

Next year, you… may not know my name

but you ar e……and always will be…….my Mom.

POETRY

IN FEBRUA RY

The Nugget is go ing to pr int some poetr y; Work s of wr itten wo rd that are yours solely.

Haiku, couplet, limer ick to name a few; Send to jess@nuggetne ws.com for review

Publication is subject to space and discretion of The Nug get; If your work is too long , it ’ll go in the bucket

Three Sisters Historical Society, led by Diane Prescott (center), is hosting Warm Springs artist Aurolyn Stwyer (right), for a Fireside Story Evening on February 21. Stwyer is joined by her apprentice Shirley Allen (left).

PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down, and each small nine-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

READING: Skill is foundational to ongoing success in school

Continued from page 1

“There were gaps we needed to address in the area of phonics, and creating the sounds of letters and recognizing symbols,” said Warburg.

There are some skills in which elementary students require instruction to gain foundational reading ability. Those include phonemic awareness (isolate sounds), phonics (decoding — reading the sounds and blending), and writing (encoding — writing the sounds to form words).

First-grade and kindergarten teachers at the elementary school recognized gaps in the reading skills foundation, and are starting to implement additional phonics practices in their curriculum.

First-grade teacher and former instructional coach Erika Velikonia said, “A lot of what we do is look at school data and figuring out areas to target and strategize, and reflect on those strategies we put in place.”

According to Velikonia, the first step to improving foundational reading skills is to screen the kids to see how to help in specific areas and to refine the curriculum.

Stephanie Burke, a kindergarten teacher, spoke to the impact of the pandemic on students in the early years of school.

“At the very basic, with the masks in general, they were struggling with the formation of the mouth and being able to produce sounds,” she said. “They couldn’t see how anything was being formed, so in the stage, the very basic level, that was our earliest aha moment, we are trying to teach them how to make a sound after recognizing a symbol as a letter, and they don’t know how to make that mouth formation to correctly have the placement of it.”

“Reading is very sequential, so learning to read is like a code, and it’s sequential in how they learn to read. It’s making sure that our instruction follows those sequential steps, essentially,” said Velikonia.

The sequential, foundational skills students learn in elementary school set up their success later in their school career, in being able to comprehend what they’re reading, and also to improve their writing skills.

The elementary school teachers — in all grades, but particularly in the foundational kindergarten and first grades — work hard at implementing multi-sensory and phonic awareness programs into the preexisting

curriculum. The teachers now implement into daily routines the use of Heggerty templates, which is a phonic awareness program, and zoo phonics, which is a program that allows students to associate a letter with an animal.

“We noticed that some of our students needed another toolbox to put the sound to the symbol… and seeing a letter is just another symbol, but then we have to attach what the sound is, so we began using zoo phonics, which is a way for students to see a letter, and that animal has a sound and a movement,” said Burke.

First-grade teacher Cameron Croisant spoke about “secret stories” that the first-graders move into. Secret stories fast-track the critical “code-based” phonics skills needed to read and write.

“We take that great foundation a step further with secret stories, which involves sort of cracking the code and really integrating that science of reading research, and keeping reading interactive, and we see that carry over into their writing,” said Croisant.

Over the last 15 years, there has been a huge increase in brain research focused on the science of reading, and it is clear that learning to read is foundational for many other subjects. Teachers in Sisters are making themselves aware of the research, and how to respond to what they are seeing with kids, especially at the earlier stages.

“We are looking at how do we do better in what we know now,” said Velikonia.

“The teachers are constantly desiring to grow in their own practice and are constantly researching… doing the work to continue to improve and to grow not as an individual, but as a team, especially at kindergarten and first grade, and bring our knowledge together to do what’s best for the kids, the passion is definitely here,” said Warburg.

Long-term, the teachers at SES want to see students have a love for reading and to encourage students to read at home with their families. Early childhood learning can really boost a student’s love and desire to read.

They work with the SMART reading program getting books into the hands of the kids, and creating an environment to build a love of reading and desire to connect with books.

“We’ve been trying hard to get more books here at kids’ levels so they can really practice and see themselves as readers,” said Velikonia.

They are emphasizing not only the skills but the enjoyment of the written word.

By Jacqueline E. Mathews, Tribune News Service

ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

CLASSIFIED RATES

COST: $2 per line for first insertion, $1.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $2 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate.

102 Commercial Rentals

210 E. Sun Ranch, Sisters Built in 2021; 1,000 sf office space available. Call w/ inquiries 760-391-3400

MINI STORAGE Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631

Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor RV parking. 7-day access. Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies. STORAGE WITH BENEFITS

• 8 x 20 dry box

• Fenced yard, RV & trailers

• In-town, gated, 24-7 Kris@earthwoodhomes.com

103 Residential Rentals ClearPine Building Luxury Apartments Brand new w/second-story mountain views, covered parking. 3 units available by 4/15/23.

2 bedroom/2 bathroom 889 sqft. $2,600

3 bedroom/2 bathroom 1368 sqft.

$2,900

3 bedroom/2 bathroom 1458 sqft.

$3,100

Contact: peterhallclearpine@gmail.com

DT Sisters Townhome for Rent 3 beds, 2.5 baths. Fully remodeled. Avail. 2-15-23. $2,550/month. 619-847-3891.

PONDEROSA PROPERTIES

–Monthly Rentals Available–Call Debbie at 541-549-2002

Full details, 24 hrs./day, go to: PonderosaProperties.com

Printed list at 221 S. Ash, Sisters Ponderosa Properties LLC

200 Business Opportunities

ATTENTION CRAFTERS !

SPRING FAIR March 24-26 at Douglas County Fairgrounds. Our 46th Year! Booths available for quality crafts. For info send SASE to: Spring Fair 2023

P.O. BOX 22, Dillard, OR 97432 Or email: innerspacefamily@gmail.com

201 For Sale

QUALITY HAY FOR SALE

1st and 2nd cutting available. Barn stored, no rain. Call 541-279-5252 or 541-420-1764.

SCHWINN AIRDYNE AD7 BICYCLE

Indoors w/removable windscreen attachment, wide seat. 3 yrs. new. $850. Call 831-750-0212.

202 Firewood SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS

DAVE ELPI – FIREWOOD

• SINCE 1976 •

Doug Fir – Lodgepole – Juniper DRIVE-IN WOOD SALES – 18155 Hwy. 126 East –SistersForestProducts.com Order Online! 541-410-4509

205 Garage & Estate Sales

Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions!

Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths?

Locally owned & operated by... Daiya 541-480-2806 Sharie 541-771-1150

301 Vehicles

We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397

Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com

• DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279

600 Tree Service & Forestry

TIMBER STAND

IMPROVEMENT

TREE SERVICES: tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, brush mowing, Firewise compliance.

— Certified Arborist — Nate Goodwin 541-771-4825

Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul!

541-719-8475

SMALL Engine REPAIR

Lawn Mowers, Chainsaws & Trimmers

Sisters Rental

331 W. Barclay Drive

541-549-9631

Authorized service center for Stihl, Honda, Ariens/Gravely, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki Engines

MOVING TRUCK FOR HIRE

–COMPLETE MOVING, LLC–

Sisters' Only Local Moving Co.!

Two exp. men with 25+ years comm. moving. Refs! ODOT Lic. Class 1-B • Call 541-678-3332

501 Computers & Communications

Technology Problems?

I can fix them for you. Solving for Business & Home Computers, Tablets, Networking Internet (Starlink), and more!

Jason Williams

Sisters local • 25 yrs. experience 541-719-8329

Oregontechpro.com

SISTERS SATELLITE

TV • PHONE • INTERNET

Online at: timberstandimprovement.net

CCB#190496 • ISA #PN7987A

LOLO TREE WORKS

Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services.

ISA Certified Arborist

Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com

Call / Text: 503-367-5638

Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com

CCB #240912

4 Brothers Tree Service

Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! – TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP –Native / Non-Native Tree Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency Storm Damage Cleanup, Craning & Stump Grinding, Debris Removal.

– FOREST MANAGEMENT –Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects!

Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003

** Free Estimates **

Owner James Hatley & Sons 541-815-2342 4brostrees.com

CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS

Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792

Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com

104 Vacation Rentals

~ Sisters Vacation Rentals ~ Private Central OR vac. rentals, Property Management Services 541-977-9898

www.SistersVacation.com

Downtown Vacation Rental Five star. 1 and 2 bedroom. SistersVacationRentals.net

Great pricing. 503-730-0150

106 Real Estate Wanted Wanted: A small lot to set

401 Horses HORSE BOARDING Minutes from Sisters www.LazyZRanch.com Call 541-588-5299

403 Pets

Three Rivers Humane Society

Where love finds a home! See the doggies at 1694 SE McTaggart in Madras • A no-kill shelter. Go to ThreeRiversHS.org or call 541-475-6889

FURRY FRIENDS

helping Sisters families w/pets. FREE Dog & Cat Food No contact pick-up by appt. 412 E. Main Ave., Ste. 4 541-797-4023

500 Services

GEORGE’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

“A Well Maintained Septic System Protects the Environment” 541-549-2871

BOOKKEEPING SERVICE

~ Olivia Spencer ~ Expert Local Bookkeeping! Phone: 541-241-4907 www.spencerbookkeeping.com

~ WEDDINGS BY KARLY ~ Happy to perform virtual or in-person weddings.

Custom Wedding Ceremonies

20+ years • 541-410-4412 revkarly@gmail.com

Your authorized local dealer for DirecTV, ViaSat HS Internet and more! CCB # 191099 541-318-7000 • 541-306-0729

502 Carpet & Upholstery

Cleaning

GORDON’S

LAST TOUCH

Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY

Member Better Business Bureau

• Bonded & Insured • Serving Central Oregon

Since 1980 Call 541-549-3008

M & J CARPET CLEANING

Area rugs, upholstery, tile & dryer-vent cleaning. Established & family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090

Construction Contractors

Licensing Information ~ An active license means your contractor is bonded and insured. For additional details visit www.oregon.gov/CCB

504 Handyman

SISTERS HONEYDO

General repairs, interior painting and trim, carpentry, drywall, lighting, and much more-just ask. 25+ yrs. Maint. exp./local refs.

Scott Dady 541-728-4266

JONES UPGRADES LLC

Home Repairs & Remodeling Drywall, Decks, Pole Barns, Fences, Sheds & more.

Mike Jones, 503-428-1281

Local resident • CCB #201650

Licensed, Bonded and Insured CCB-215057

Top Knot Tree Care can handle all of your tree needs, from trims to removals. Specializing in tree assessment, hazard tree removal, crown reduction, ladder fuel reduction, lot clearing, ornamental and fruit tree trimming and care.

• Locally owned and operated •

• Senior and military discounts

• • Free assessments •

• Great cleanups •

• Licensed, Insured and Bonded • Contact Bello Winter @ 541-419-9655, Find us on Google CCB#238380

601 Construction

Lara’s Construction LLC. CCB#223701

Offering masonry work, fireplaces, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build barbecues, and all types of masonry. Give us a call for a free estimate.

541-350-3218

Earthwood Timberframes

• Design & shop fabrication

• Recycled fir and pine beams

• Mantels and accent timbers

• Sawmill/woodshop services www.earthwoodhomes.com

Pat Burke

LOCALLY OWNED

CRAFTSMAN BUILT

CCB: 288388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com

Ridgeline Electric, LLC

Serving all of Central Oregon

• Residential • Commercial

• Industrial • Service

541-588-3088 • CCB #234821

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Electrical Installations LLC

Residential & Light Commercial • Service No job too small. 503-509-9353

CCB# 235868

603 Excavation & Trucking

BANR Enterprises, LLC

606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance

– All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, mowing, moss removal, edging, raking, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169

Austin • 541-419-5122

Black Butte School District

is hiring a Facilities & Grounds Specialist www.blackbutte.k12.or.us/emplo yment or 541-595-6203.

Construction & Renovation

Custom Residential Projects

All Phases • CCB #148365

541-420-8448

541-390-1206 beavercreeklog@yahoo.com

Log repairs, log railing, log accent, log siding, etc.

CCB #235303 Insurance & Bond

Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls

Residential & Commercial

CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977

www.BANR.net

Full Service Excavation

Free On-site Visit & Estimate

Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com

541-549-1472 • CCB #76888

Drainfield

• Minor & Major Septic Repair

• All Septic Needs/Design & Install

General Excavation

• Site Preparation

• Rock & Stump Removal

• Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation

Custom Homes • Additions

Residential Building Projects

Serving Sisters area since 1976 Strictly Quality

CCB #16891 • CCB #159020

541-280-9764

John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com

CENIGA'S MASONRY, INC.

Brick

• Block • Stone • Pavers

CCB #181448 – 541-350-6068 www.CenigasMasonry.com

CASCADE GARAGE DOORS

Factory Trained Technicians

Since 1983 • CCB #44054

541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553

SPURGE COCHRAN BUILDER, INC.

General Contractor Building Distinctive, Handcrafted Custom Homes, Additions, Remodels, Cabin

Renovations Since ’74

A “Hands-On” Builder

Keeping Your Project on Time & On Budget • CCB #96016

To speak to Spurge personally, call 541-815-0523

• Building Demolition

Trucking

• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water

• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly

• The Whole 9 Yards or 24

Whatever You Want!

ROBINSON & OWEN

Heavy Construction, Inc.

All your excavation needs

*General excavation

*Site Preparation

*Sub-Divisions

*Road Building

*Sewer and Water Systems

*Underground Utilities

*Grading

*Sand-Gravel-Rock

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

CCB #124327

541-549-1848

604 Heating & Cooling ACTION AIR

Heating & Cooling, LLC

Retrofit • New Const • Remodel

Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com

CCB #195556

541-549-6464

605 Painting

Custom Homes

Residential Building Projects

Concrete Foundations

Becke William Pierce

CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384

Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com

602 Plumbing & Electric SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.

“Quality and Reliability”

Repairs • Remodeling

• New Construction

• Water Heaters

541-549-4349

Residential and Commercial Licensed • Bonded • Insured

CCB #87587

PROPERTY TO SELL?

Advertise it in The Nugget

METOLIUS PAINTING LLC

Meticulous, Affordable

Interior & Exterior

541-280-7040 • CCB# 238067

~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks

CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com

EMPIRE PAINTING

Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining

CCB#180042

541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk

Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.

CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com

541-515-8462

All Landscaping Services

Mowing, Thatching, Hauling and SNOW REMOVAL

Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740

J&E Landscaping Maintenance

LLC Clean-ups, raking, hauling debris, gutters. Edgar Cortez 541-610-8982 jandelspcing15@gmail.com

Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345

701 Domestic Services

BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING!

Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897

I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals.

Licensed, Bonded & Insured.

541-977-1051

704 Events & Event Services

Central Oregon's LARGEST GUN & KNIFE SHOW!

February 18 & 19

Saturday, 9-5 • Sunday, 9-3 Deschutes County Expo Center General Admission: $10

Military/Vets: $8

Two-day pass: $16 Kids 12 and under: Free For info call 503-363-9564 or visit WesKnodelGunShows.com

802 Help Wanted

The Garden Angel is now filling landscape supervisor and maintenance crew member positions. LCB #9583 Inquire at 541-549-2882 or thegardenangel@gmail.com

Companion caregivers, flexible scheduling, willing to train. $20 to $25 per hour DOE. Nicole @oregonintergratedcare.com, 817-600-2006

Bird Gard, the world leader in electronic bird control, is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer with 10+ years of experience and a BSEE or equivalent. Come join our team in Sisters, Oregon and help us design cutting-edge bird control systems.

Email your resume to info@birdgard.com today!

Conversational German tutor wanted. Call Gail 541-350-5115

Part Time Sales Associate

We are looking for a person who is friendly, outgoing, and reliable; someone who enjoys working with the public in a team environment. Workdays are Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Applications available at the Stitchin' Post, 311 W. Cascade in Sisters or by email diane.j@stitchinpost.com.

Questions? Contact diane.j@stitchinpost.com.

Horse Farm Help in Sisters

2-3 days per week, approx. 3 hours per visit. Duties to include: Manure pickup and removal, water tanks, hay bag refills, and misc. jobs. Horse experience preferred. $20/hr. Please contact Allison 541-410-2209

803 Work Wanted Available in Sisters

COMPANION CAREGIVER

Please call or text 503-274-0214 for more information.

999 Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the City of Sisters City Council will conduct a public hearing at Sisters City Hall, 520 E. Cascade Avenue, Sisters, on February 28, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. regarding the application listed below. The hearing will be held according to SDC Chapter 4.1 and the rules of procedure adopted by the Council and available at City Hall. Prior to the public hearing, written comments may be provided to Sisters City Hall at 520 E. Cascade Avenue, Sisters (mailing

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF BALLOT TITLE

Notice is hereby given that a ballot title for a measure referred by Black Butte School District 41, was filed with the County Clerk of Jefferson County on February 8, 2023. This measure will be on the May 16, 2023 Special District Election Ballot. The ballot title caption is “Bonds to Update Facilities, Replace HVAC & Roof, Improve Safety.”

The full text of this ballot measure is available at the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office, 66 SE D Street, Suite C, Madras, OR 97741 or on the Jefferson County website: www.jeffco.net/cc

An elector may file a petition for review of this ballot title in the Jefferson County Circuit Court no later than 5:00 p.m. February 17, 2023.

Katherine Zemke Jefferson County

Clerk

address PO Box 39, Sisters, OR 97759) or emailed to mmartin@ ci.sisters.or.us. Comments should be directed toward the criteria that apply to this request and must reference the file number For additional information, please contact Matthew Martin, Principal Planner at (541) 323-5208 or mmartin@ci.sisters. or.us. The staff report and recommendation to the hearings body will be available for review at least seven (7) days before the hearing. All submitted evidence and materials related to the application are available for inspection at City Hall. Copies of all materials will be available on request at a reasonable cost. The City Council meeting is accessible to the public either in person or via Zoom online meeting. Meeting information, including the Zoom link, can be found on https://www.ci.sisters. or.us/meetings.

PUBLIC HEARING: February 28, 2023 at 5:30 pm

FILE #S: AP 23-01 / MP 22-01 /

SUB 22-01 / MNR 22-02

APPELLANT/APPLICANT:

Woodhill Homes – George Hale

OWNER: Richard G Patterson Revocable Trust

SITE LOCATION: Address: 15510 McKenzie Highway, Sisters, OR 97759; Tax Map and Lot: 15-10-5DC 7300

ZONING: Multi-Family

Residential District - MFR Airport Overlay District - AO

REQUEST: Appeal of the approval of a Master Plan, Tentative Subdivision Plat, and a Minor Partition on a 12.92-acre property in the Multi-Family Residential District. The proposed development (“Sunset Meadows”) includes 60-lot residential development with 36 lots for single family detached dwellings, 24 lots for attached townhome dwellings, a parcel for an approximately 72-124 unit multi-family residential development, 3.15-acres of open space, and other associated improvements.

APPLICABLE CRITERIA: City of Sisters Development Code (SDC): Chapter 2.3 –Multi-Family Residential District; Chapter 2.11 – Airport Overlay District; Chapter 3.1Access and Circulation; Chapter 3.2 – Landscaping and Screening; Chapter 3.3 – Vehicle and Bicycle Parking; Chapter 3.5Public Improvements Standards; Chapter 4.1 – Types of Applications and Review Procedures; Chapter 4.5 – Master Planned Developments; Chapter 4.3 – Land Divisions and Lot Line Adjustments.

Construction Contractors' LICENSING

– Information for the Public –Oregon law requires those who work for compensation (except bona fide employees) in any construction activity involving improvements to real property to be licensed with Oregon CCB. (There are several exemptions.) An active license means the contractor is bonded and insured. Visit www.oregon.gov/CCB.

Court denies request to enact gun control

By Grant Stringer Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon Supreme Court denied a request by Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum to allow Measure 114 to go into effect in a ruling on Thursday.

The decision means legal challenges to the gun-control measure will move forward and all parts of the law will remain paused.

In a press release Thursday, the state’s high court acknowledged the controversial nature of the measure, which has remained in legal limbo since voters narrowly approved it in November. Measure 114 would require purchasers to take a safety course, pass a background check, and obtain a permit before obtaining a firearm. It would also ban magazines or ammunition feeders that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.

“The court recognized that the legal status of Measure 114 is of significant concern to many Oregonians and that the judicial branch’s role is to resolve disputes such as challenges to laws enacted by the legislative branch, including the people exercising their initiative power,” the court said.

However, it is “not an appropriate time” to interject in the matter, the statement said.

The court also denied a request by Rosenblum and the Oregon Department of Justice to halt upcoming court proceedings that are part of the legal challenges to the gun regulations.

The Virginia-based gun rights group Gun Owners of America and two Harney County residents filed a lawsuit against Measure 114 shortly after a slim majority of voters approved it. A spokesperson for Gun Owners of America did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Measure 114 tasked

Oregon officials with building a statewide permit system by December 8. But after the measure passed, officials said they wouldn’t be ready by then.

Harney County Judge Robert Raschio paused the measure’s permit and background check requirements until officials set up the permit process. In a parallel challenge to the measure in federal court, state officials said they would need until March 7 to prepare a permit system.

Raschio has also paused the ban on larger magazines until he holds hearings.

“I am very disappointed that the Oregon Supreme Court denied our request to allow Measure 114, Oregon’s new gun safety law, to take effect now,” Rosenblum said Thursday on Twitter. “We intend to continue to defend the law zealously in the Harney County court.”

Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 courtesy of https://oregon capitalchronicle.com/

DCSO: Additional deputy would extend coverage hours

Continued from page 1

of 2023, a review is to be completed to determine if any changes or modifications need to be considered,” Davis stated in his presentation to the Council.

During the start of the enhanced service, the City and DCSO went with the conservative amount of three deputies, but after increased call numbers over the last two years, they are proposing additional coverage by a fourth deputy, which is what Davis presented to the Council during the board workshop.

“A fourth deputy would expand our coverage to (16) hours a day, seven days a week, totaling 200 hours per week of patrol time,” said Davis.

They would be able to expand their presence in the City of Sisters and have an additional deputy to cover special events like Sisters Rodeo, Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, Sisters Folk Festival, et al.

According to the workshop packet, “From a financial perspective, the law enforcement services fall under a department of the City’s General Fund. For FY 2022/23, the IGA carried a not to exceed (NTE) of $767,000 and with adding a fourth deputy that NTE would be closer to

$925,000 (which includes a four percent personnel escalator for all deputies) for FY 2023/24.”

Being mindful of the potential for an additional deputy and their benefit to the community, staff retained a Law Enforcement Reserve in place for each of the budget years after the effective date of the new IGA. The reserve amount included in the budgets reflected the financial impact of an additional deputy. In the FY 2022/23 budget, the Law Enforcement Reserve was $136,000.

If the Council determines that an additional deputy is appropriate, the upcoming budgets will exclude the Law Enforcement Reserve.

Sisters is currently served by a Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant and three deputies. The agency and the City are considering adding a fourth, to close gaps in coverage and manage increased calls for service.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Girls basketball loses to league foes

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The girls basketball squad lost both their games this past week; a 50-24 loss at Pleasant Hill (PH) on Tuesday, February 7, and three days later a 61-35 loss at Creswell.

On Tuesday the Outlaws faced the Lady Billies, the No. 1 team in the Mountain Valley Conference, and the No. 1-ranked team in the state, who entered the game with a 19-1 record.

The Outlaws continue to play without Josie Patton and Ellie Mayes, who are still out with a concussion and sprained ankle, respectively.

The Billies got off to a quick start and racked up 17 points in the first period. Many of their points came off of turnovers. Sisters did get a couple of buckets from Haleigh Froehlich, and Delaney McAfee hit a long ball from behind the arc. The Billies didn’t press the Outlaws, but they did a good job of getting in the passing lanes in their zone defense. Pleasant Hill closed out the quarter up by 10.

PH continued to stack up points in the second quarter, while the Outlaws went completely cold, and only mustered a single free throw from Ashlynn Moffat. At the half the Outlaws trailed 8-33.

The Billies’ point guard, Shyanne Finley, is a great player who can drive to the rim and score or easily dump the ball off to the posts who can finish, and she continued to do a great job of that in the second half.

Sisters did do a better job in the second half on defense. In the third quarter the Billies were only able to score 10 points and the Outlaws put up 10. In the final period PH dipped into their reserve players and the Outlaws managed to outscore them 9-7. Sisters was more aggressive on offense and four of those points came from six freethrow attempts. The clocked ticked down and Sisters took the loss.

Moffat played well for the Outlaws, got to the foul line three times, and went 4-6. Froelich led the Outlaws with seven points, and created several steals with her pressure defense. Delaney McAfee (three points) did well on defense and held their point guard, Shyanne Finley, to just six points, compared to 14 in their last match up. Shae (four points) and Sage Wyland gave the Outlaws big minutes on the court without much rest, due to Patton still being unable to play. Jenna Lake also had three points in the contest.

On Friday the Outlaws traveled to Creswell, the No. 2 ranked team in league (9-2 league record and 16-6 overall), and posted another loss.

Sisters did have Patton back on the court, which gave the Outlaws a big defensive boost and a presence in the post on offense. Mayes was also back and able to play after being out several games, but unfortunately the team missed Froehlich who was recovering after having her wisdom teeth pulled.

Creswell started the game with a full-court press, and the Outlaws turned the ball over a few times before they solved how to break it. After a couple of transition buckets by Moffat and Shae Wyland the Lady Bulldogs abandoned their press. Creswell hit a lucky bank shot three pointer at the buzzer to give them a nine point lead (7-16) at the end of the first quarter.

Sisters played the Bulldogs even in the second period, 10-10, with Shae Wyland scoring six of the Outlaws 10 points.

The third quarter proved to be the decisive period. The Bulldogs went on a roll and outscored the Outlaws 4-22. They run a dribbledrive offense that attacks the rim, and the Outlaws fouled. Creswell hit all seven of their free-throw attempts. Sisters did get some good opportunities but just couldn’t get them to drop.

In the final quarter, the Bulldogs held a comfortable lead and put in several of their bench players, and the Outlaws were able to find some success. Lake found her range from outside and hit two long balls and Moffat scored a bucket and got to the free-throw line a couple of times.

Shae Wyland had her best offensive game of the season, and led the Outlaws with 11 points, followed by Lake who put up eight. Moffat scored six points and Patton added four.

The Outlaws were scheduled to wrap up league play on Monday, February 13, at home against La Pine.

Swimmers shine at district meet

By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent

Three swimmers qualified for a total of six events for this week’s OSAA State Championships, based on their performances at the 4A/3A/2A/1A Special District 4 meet, hosted by Sweet Home High School February 10 and 11 at South Albany High School.

The top two finishers in each event automatically qualify, along with some “wild cards” who achieve next-best times.

Clayten Heuberger highlighted the Outlaws’ efforts with a meet record in the 100-yard backstroke, which he won in 54.75 seconds. He enters the state meet as the second-ranked competitor behind Catlin Gabel’s Akira Van de Groenendaal, who posted a qualifying time of 53.92.

Heuberger also won the 50-yard freestyle, edging his teammate Joseph Souza 23.40 to 23.62.

Souza placed third in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:07:0, and had to wait until Sunday with the news he qualified as a wildcard selection.

Ted Stolasz also made the podium with a fourth-place finish in the 100-yard freestyle (56.51).

Coach Alex Bick felt

pleased with the boys team’s performance, including that of freshman Weston Dean in his first year in swimming competition.

“Weston dropped six full seconds from his previous best in the 50 free,” he said. “I’m proud of him and his teammates for their performances.”

Sisters boys placed seventh as a team, with 68 points among nine teams scoring. Marist Catholic won the meet with 229 points to edge Sweet Home by 10 points.

For the girls, Ella Bartlett returned to the state meet with a victory in the 500-yard freestyle (6:00.13), and a second-place finish in the 100yard breaststroke (1:15.88).

The girls team of Haven Heuberger, Rylie Bick, Stella Parzybok, and Ella Bartlett picked up seventh place in the 200-yard freestyle relay in a tie of 2:05.03. Bick placed seventh in the 50-yard freestyle in 30.01 seconds.

Sisters ended up in eighth place as a team with 48 points. Sweet Home won by a landslide, with 283 points among 12 scoring teams.

Bick said, “This team has a genuine care and interest in each other. Nothing is forced and they just love spending time together.”

The state meet will be held at Tualatin Hills Aquatic Center February 17-18.

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