The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLVI No. 35 // 2023-08-30

News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Council will hold hearing on homeless shelter

By Ceili Gatley Correspondent

The Sisters City Council will hold a hearing on Tuesday, September 5, at 5 p.m. on a proposed emergency shelter for the homeless at 192 W. Barclay Dr. in Sisters.

A local nonprofit organization, Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS), advocates for the houseless community. The organization was awarded funding from the State through the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) to purchase and operate a shelter at a permanent location within Sisters. The SCWS board has reapplied for the emergency shelter first proposed by the board to the City of Sisters on June 27. The new application is under

On the run in Sisters…

Housing could lead to teacher shortage

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

The average schoolteacher in the U.S. can only afford to buy 12 percent of the homes for sale within a 20-minute drive of their school, down from 17 percent last year, according to a report from real estate broker Redfin. That’s less than half of the pre-pandemic levels, when 30 percent of homes near their workplace were affordable to teachers. Likewise, just 27 percent of the available rental properties near their school are affordable.

Some 264 runners ran the Oregon Cascades 100 that began in Bend Saturday morning and finished in Sisters Sunday. Runners aged 19 to 75 ran the 100-mile ultra marathon overnight gaining 12,000 rugged feet in elevation during the grueling trek, 95 percent of which was unpaved.

Explore Sisters laying tourism groundwork

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Explore Sisters is tasked with promoting tourism that fits in well with the community values of Sisters. The work of the organization, which is one year old, has not been very visible to the public.

The organization is funded through a lodging tax of 8.99 percent on room rates for overnight lodging of less than 30 days. Transient Lodging (Room) Tax (TRT or TLT) is the City’s second largest general fund income source. Despite the volatile economic environment for the last three years that included COVID, Sisters has retained its tourist popularity, resulting in the TLT exceeding conservative projections over prior fiscal years.

How much is that? $1.07 million of a total of $11.7 million in lodging revenue. Using an average of $150/ night, that works out to 78,000 nights spent in Sisters hotels, motels, cottages, inns, and licensed private homes. Looked at another way, if the average stay is three nights, then roughly 26,000 visitors paid for some kind of overnight accommodation last year.

Thirty-three percent of that fund is earmarked for Explore Sisters. By state law, 33 percent of lodging taxes must be spent on promoting tourism. Explore Sisters is known in the tourism world as a DMO — destination marketing organization.

Explore Sisters was

“The shortage of affordable homes is exacerbating the shortage of teachers,” said Redfin Senior Economist Sheharyar Bokhari. “Many teachers who can’t afford to buy a house near work are either renting and missing out

See TEACHERS on page 19

Sisters man wins Americana award

By Ceili Gatley Correspondent

Kolby Knickerbocker is a multi-award-winning Americana singer-songwriter. His music has been featured in television, movies, and ads. Knickerbocker and his family relocated to Bend from the valley in 2017 after his wife grew up vacationing in Bend. Just last year, they decided to move to Sisters to raise their growing children and settle in Sisters Country as a young family.

Knickerbocker has always loved to play music. He moved all over the country when he was young and found songwriting and music to deal with all the life changes.

“I’ve always been able to predict where a song might go and have always been drawn to music. I didn’t grow up playing, but music became

a therapy for me,” he said.

According to his website: “Regularly having to say goodbye to the friends and people he’s loved has been a defining aspect for him. Knickerbocker says,

‘Moving a lot can be painful for a young person growing up, finding out who they are. Because of it, my songs are usually tinged with a bit of

Kolby Knickerbocker won Best Americana Song with “Friend Like You” at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards on August 17.

PHOTO BY SHERI DETERMAN

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

A new four-letter word?

Editorial…

Hearing on shelter is the right call

The Sisters City Council’s decision to hold a public hearing on the proposed emergency homeless shelter at 192 W. Barclay Dr. is the right call. (See story, page 1).

A decision of this magnitude, with the degree of public interest and concern that has been generated, deserves a public process — and the final decision should be made by elected officials who represent the community. That’s not what the governor and state legislature of Oregon wanted — the legislation under which the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS) application was filed (twice) was crafted to get around land use procedures and to limit public input, because shelters are controversial. Dodging a public process is wrong. The decisions that affect our community should be thrashed out in public at as local a level as possible.

HB3395 allows for a hearing, though it doesn’t require one. The law offers no guidance for who should hold such a hearing or what form it should take. So the City Council has determined on a direction and is charting its own course.

They could have punted. They could have simply allowed City staff to make a decision one way or another on the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS) application, and

let the courts sort it out. Instead, the Council stepped up to their responsibilities. They are to be commended for that. Councilors will surely face accusations of bias and conflict of interest, and either way the decision goes, it’s likely to wind up in litigation. But if you’re going to end up in court regardless, it’s better to end up there for an open decision, openly arrived at.

The decision may not be a unanimous one — and there’s nothing wrong with that.

What matters is that SCWS will have an opportunity to make their case to the community and its representatives that an emergency homeless shelter is beneficial in the community, and that they are capable of operating it in a safe and effective manner. Opponents can make their case that the shelter is not an appropriate facility in Sisters and/or that SCWS isn’t the organization to run it. And the whole community can watch their elected representatives deliberate to a decision based on the record, in public, instead of a decision being made behind a closed office door.

It’s bound to be messy, but that’s the nature of self-government. It’s good to see the Sisters City Council take this angry, snorting bull by the horns. Hats off to ’em.

Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Letters to the Editor…

The Nugget welcomes contributions from its readers, which must include the writer’s name, address, and phone number. Letters to the Editor is an open forum for the community and contains unsolicited opinions not necessarily shared by the Editor. The Nugget reserves the right to edit, omit, respond, or ask for a response to letters submitted to the Editor. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. Unpublished items are not acknowledged or returned. The deadline for all letters is 10 a.m. Monday.

More Bunkhouse Chronicle

To the Editor:

I firmly believe Craig Rullman is fully capable of defending himself, to say nothing of his being able to shrug off criticism. That being said, recent critics seem to feel his characterization of the current President as a “demented octogenarian bigot, who is probably a felon” is somehow to be disparaged, while calling the former President a

“narcissistic whack job” is somehow laudable. The hypocrisy of these obviously biased critics is laughable. Craig is spot-on with both assessments. What horrible options the voting public has been given lately!

Please encourage Mr. Rullman to continue submitting his thought-provoking essays. They are the first, and sometimes only, things I read when The Nugget hits my mailbox.

See LETTERS on page 11

Sisters Weather Forecast

The Nugget Newspaper, LLC

Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius

Production Manager: Leith Easterling

Creative Director: Jess Draper

Community Marketing

Partner:

By Kit Tosello Guest Columnist

Back in the mid-1990s I stopped calling my sandals “thongs.” Because none of us wants to be like that guy to whom “The Princess Bride” character Inigo Montoya said, “You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.” If we hope to be understood, word choice matters. Word choice can mean the difference between a goodnatured snowball fight and throwing stones.

Writers and editors are a special kind of weird. I never close the Merriam-Webster tab on my browser. A fun feature of M-W’s landing page is “Top Lookups Right Now.” This list refreshes every 30 seconds. It’s true — at any given moment you can view the top 10 words Americans are looking up in the dictionary!

One word claims the top spot more often than any other: woke. Just now when I opened my laptop, the word sat in the numbereight spot, then disappeared from the list for 30 seconds only to reappear at number one. This has held true all year, which I take to mean two things: It’s a word we’re all running into. And no one knows for sure what it means.

You’d think MerriamWebster could resolve the muddle. But dictionaries are only a mirror reflecting the ways we currently employ a word. M-W lists woke as an adjective, “chiefly slang,” and offers two definitions.

1. aware of and actively attentive to important societal facts and issues (especially issues of racial and social justice)

2. disapproving : politically liberal (as in matters of racial and social justice) especially in a way that is considered unreasonable or extreme

So it seems this word can refer either to someone devoted to causes that affect human thriving, or to someone thought of as taking culture care too far. One meaning has positive overtones. The other is pejorative. One person’s arms-wide-open is another person’s Armageddon. As words go, this one’s as clear as dishwater.

It’s understandable, really. We’re attempting to place meaningful words around cultural shifts for which we feel underprepared. Still, I hear my friends use woke as if its meaning is self-evident. So I’ve found it

helpful to ask, “What do you mean exactly?” Because if we as a community hope to tend our patch of common ground, we have to continuously cultivate a common language.

Honestly, it’s a little awkward. But then the other person will switch to easily understood language and say, “Well, I’m afraid of...” or, “I’m concerned about...” and name a specific issue.

My integrity as a writer dictates I avoid words that are ambiguous. My Christian faith impels me to steer clear of words that are judgmental. And there can come a point when a word slides from unhelpful to ugly. Maybe even unsanctified.

Words are how we express meaning, love, wonder. Words are also weapons. Language has the power to shape reality and thought. It’s central to how we treat others as fellow creatures of value and worth. Sometimes lately while traveling in my usual social circles, I’ve felt like I took a wrong turn. As if somehow I landed in the school cafeteria at the mean kids’ table. Narrowed eyes, hushed criticism, fear-mongering. Woke, they whisper. Out of the same mouths pour both blessings and curses. “My brothers and sisters, this should not be,” wrote Jesus’ brother James.

The enemy isn’t those who may or may not be misguided in their efforts to be good people. The enemy is the same it’s always been: fear. Fear and suspicion cripple love.

“Tread carefully,” my husband said when I mentioned the topic of this piece. One wrong word and I’d be misunderstood. Exactly! I thought. One wrong word.

Assigning labels is a bully move, we tell our children. But are we inviting political pundits into our homes (via TV) who use them? Are we modeling how to scan for danger, but not for love? Are we parroting words others are using without ever looking them up in the dictionary? Will we allow language to shape our fears? To tear us asunder?

When we use words carelessly we don’t just slight others, we do ourselves a disservice. Because those who value authentic, deeply felt communication are likely to dismiss all of our words out of hand.

So let’s pursue common language to put to our common mission. After all, aren’t most of us just trying to find the way of love in a world of hurt?

Environmental program coming to Sisters

A new environmental program for youth, launched in early 2023, is coming to Sisters this fall, thanks to a partnership between Camp Fire Central Oregon and Sisters Middle School. Registration opened on August 6 and spots are still available.

The Sisters-based program, called “ExplOregon: Project Good Earth,” is open to kids in grades 6-8 and features five fabulous Fridays of afterschool outdoor exploration, enrichment, and

Heavy lifting to inspire Sisters

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Two Sisters athletes set national records in their class in powerlifting competition last month.

Don Frosland, 68, 242 pounds, bench-pressed 264 pounds and deadlifted 405 for records. Debi Braun, competing in the 70-74 category in the 148-pound weight class, benched 110 pounds and deadlifted 171 pounds for records.

Both are well enough pleased with their accomplishment at the U.S. Powerlifting Associationsanctioned Summer Strength Wars meet at the Strength Warehouse in Bend last July. Yet neither wanted to

BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS

Al -Anon

Mon., noon, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-610 -7383.

Alcoholics A nonymou s

promote their own prowess.

Rather, Frosland and Braun each extolls the value of strength/resistance training to our health and wellbeing — especially as we age.

Braun started weight training early, when she was a young track athlete. She became a physical education teacher, and has always appreciated the benefits of lifting. She’s been training with Coach Ryan Hudson at Level 5 in Sisters for four years, and has raised her level considerably.

“I’ve always lifted weights, but never to this magnitude and not in competition, for sure,” she said.

She enjoys the camaraderie and the positive,

encouraging community of the gym, and has enjoyed being led into competition.

“You kind of get hooked,” she said. “I apparently am the bench-press queen. I never thought that my upper body would be stronger than my lower body, but it is. Not that it’s my preference, but it’s what I excel at.”

Competing suits her personality.

“My personality, I’m competitive with myself,” she said. “I enjoy the challenge and doing this. It makes you feel good, it makes you feel strong.”

Both Braun and Frosland emphasize that you don’t need to be competitive to

learning.

According to James DiRosa, Camp Fire Central Oregon’s outdoor and environmental coordinator, “ExplOregon was born out of Camp Fire’s mission to connect youth to the outdoors, to each other, and to themselves. This program is unique in that we do nature-based activities and adventures that touch many layers of this mission. We’re outside, engaging in the environment, and

Workshop focuses on managing disagreements

Sisters company Happy Brain Science and Sisters nonprofit Citizens4Community (C4C) are partnering to help Sisters Country resolve disagreements more effectively.

Have you ever regretted something you said in a heated discussion? Most of us have.

Science suggests that the quality of our relationships is typically the most important factor in our happiness and well-being. That’s why it’s so crucial to handle disagreements skillfully.

On Wednesday, September 6, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Community Hall, Citizens4Community and Happy Brain Science will

SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR

Council on Aging of Cent ral O rego n Senior Lunch In- person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Grab -and -go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs

12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters C ommunity

Church. 5 41-4 8 0-18 43

Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158

Sisters Area Photography Club

2nd Wednesday, 3:3 0 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church. 5 41-5 49 -6157.

Sisters Red Hat s 1st Friday. For location infor mation, please c all:

541- 8 48 -1970.

Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon, Aspen Lakes. 5 41-760 -5 64 5.

be giving a free workshop called “STOP SHOUTING; Collaboration through Candid Conversation.” The workshop will be facilitated by the founder of Happy Brain Science, Sisters resident Scott Crabtree. Because the skills to work through disagreements effectively are extremely valuable at work, organizations including DreamWorks, Nike, Intel, Boeing, Oregon Judicial Department, and The Humane Society of the U.S. have repeatedly hired Happy Brain Science to facilitate this workshop. Now this same material is being offered to anyone

Sisters School District Board of Directors O ne Wednesday m onthly, Sisters School District Administr ation Building. See schedule online at www ssd6.org. 5 41-5 49 -8 521 x5 002.

Thursday, 7 p.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration / Satur day, 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration / M onday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church / Big Book study, Tuesday, noon, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church / Gen tlemen’s meeting, Wednesday, 7 a.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Sober

Sisters Women’s meet ing, Thu rsday, noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church / Step & Tradition meeting, Fr iday, noon, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-5 48 -0 440.

Central Oregon F ly Tye rs G uild

For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelef ly@msn.c om

Ci tizens4Communit y New neighbor meetup, last Tuesday of t he month, 5 to 6:3 0 p.m. at T he Bar n in Sisters

Ci tizens4Communit y C ommunity Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday, 10 to 11:3 0 a.m. V isit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for loc ation.

East of the Cascades Quilt Guild

4th Wed. (September- June), Stitchin’

Post . A ll are welcome. 5 41-5 49 -6 061.

G o Fish Fishing G roup 3rd Monday 7 p.m., Siste rs C ommunity Church.

541-771-2211

Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s)

2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Siste rs Communit y Church. M ater ials provided.

541- 408 -8 505.

Hero Q uilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 5 41-6 68 -1755

Milita ry Parent s of Sisters M eetings are held quarter ly; please c all for details. 5 41-388 -9 013.

Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:3 0 a.m., Takoda’s Rest aurant.

541- 549- 64 69

SAGE (Senior Activities, G athering s & Enrichmen t) M onday- Fr iday, 11 a.m.

to 4 p.m. at Sisters Par k & Recreation District. 5 41-5 49 -2091.

Sisters Area Woodworke rs First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 5 41-231-18 97

Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters C ommunity Church. Email sister sbridge2021@gmail.com.

Sisters Caregi ver Suppor t G roup

3rd Tues., 10:30 a.m., Siste rs Episcopal Church. 5 41-719 -0 031.

Sisters Cribbage C lub M eets 11 a.m. ever y Wed. at S PR D. 5 09 -9 47-574 4.

Sisters Garden C lub For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com.

Sisters Habitat for Humanit y Board of D irectors 4th Tuesday, 6 p.m. Location infor mation: 5 41-5 49 -1193.

Sisters Kiwanis Thursdays, 7 to 8:3 0 a.m., at Aspen Lakes Golf Cours e. 541- 410-2870

Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y

2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons.

917-219-8298

Sisters Veterans Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant.

541- 903-1123

Sisters Trails A lliance Board Meetings take plac e ever y other month, 5 p.m. In- person or zoom. Contact: info@sisterstrails.org

Three Sister s Irrigation Distric t Board of Direc tors M eets 1st Tuesday 4 p.m., TSI D Of fice. 5 41-5 49 -8 815

Three Sister s Lions Club 2nd Thursday, 6:3 0 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 5 41-419 -1279.

VF W Po st 813 8 and A merican Legion Post 8 6 1st Wednesday of the mont h, 6:3 0 p.m., M ain Church

Building Sisters Community Church. 8 47-344 -0 49 8

SCHOOLS

Black Bu tt e School Board of Direc tors 2nd Tuesday, 3:45 p.m., Black But te School. 541- 59 5- 6203

CITY & PARKS

Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:3 0 p.m., Siste rs City Hall. 5 41-5 49 -6 022. Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Dire ctor s

FIRE & POLICE

Black

PHOTO PROVIDED

Coach Ryan Hudson with Debi Braun and Don Frosland at the Summer Strength Wars meet in Bend, where both lifters set national records.

Registration wrapping up for Sisters car show

Sisters Park & Recreation District’s (SPRD) annual car show is only a few weeks away, and those who want to enter a car are encouraged to act quickly. The Glory Daze Car Show returns to downtown Sisters on September 23.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. spectators are invited to view an anticipated 100-plus cars spanning over four blocks of East Main Ave. With free admission for spectators, oldies music, a Kids Zone, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Glory Daze Car Show.

“This is such a fun event and is a perfect way to spend a Saturday in Sisters. Everyone is invited to join us and celebrate the work of our car enthusiasts! This event would not be possible without the support of the Rotary Club of Sisters. Not only have they signed on to be our title sponsor again, they provide a majority of our volunteers, and this year they have added sausage and hot dog sales!” said Jennifer Holland, executive director of SPRD.

Car registrations are still available but are going fast. Cars can be registered online at www.sistersrecreation. com or call 541-549-2091 for assistance. According to Holland, if the event sells out, day-of registration will not be an option. If you are interested in volunteering at the event, email SPRD@ sistersrecreation.com.

Outlaws return veteran soccer players

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Sisters High School (SHS) boys soccer squad will be led by six returning seniors, including Vincent Christian, Austin Dean, Carson Bell, Baylor Dyer, Evan Martin, and Logan Ryba. This core group has lofty goals for the season; they not only look to repeat as league champs but want to go deeper, into the state tournament.

Christian and Dean are this year’s captains and both have been four-year starters for the Outlaws. Coach Jeff Husmann stated that Christian is a very determined and skilled player and Dean is one of the hardest working and most competitive players he’s had the opportunity to work with. Both players are versatile and are impact-type players.

Bell is expected to also be a big part of the team’s success. He has exceptional field vision and is also a highlyskilled ball handler. Husmann noted that Bell has high expectations of himself and his teammates and coaches have great confidence in him. Dyer returns as a starter, as a right back on defense and is a leader at that position. Dyer keeps things exciting for the team as he makes well-timed attacking runs out of the defense.

Martin is poised and ready for his senior season as a defender. His speed and unorthodox style make life tough for the opponents’ attacking players. Ryba has proven to be a versatile and aggressive player, and Husmann stated that he has such a positive attitude and willingness to learn wherever

they move him on the pitch.

Eight juniors — Danny Benson, Micah Dachtler, Andrew Islas, Dominic Minney, Riley Carroll, Cooper Merrill, and Keegan Kroytz — will also be on the varsity squad.

Benson will play at striker and as an attacking midfield player. He is a skilled player, and his increase in size will be an asset to the team. Dachtler will see time at defense and midfield. He’s a returning starter and a very versatile player, who Husmann noted has excellent field vision, is up for any challenge, and is a diligent student of the game.

Islas is very good with the ball and will contend for a starting position on the squad as a striker or attacking midfield. Minney is working for a starting varsity position on defense, and has made big gains as a player since last year.

Merrill will play defense. According to Husmann he is a “beast, physically tough and smart.” Merrill is also a great leader on the field. Kroytz will see time at midfield and defense. He works hard every practice and coaches expect him to be an important sub. Carroll is a physical player and a good ball handler, and is back on the squad after a couple of years away from the sport.

Jesse Polachek, and Nick Palmer (both sophomores) will also play on varsity. Polachek (center back) was the lone player who played every minute of every game last year. He plays year-round and is one of the Outlaws’

most talented players. Palmer has lots of skill, is hungry to improve, and will see time in the midfield.

Three sophomores, Dugan Draper, Tyson Kemp, and Ivan Alport, will be swing players for the Outlaws. Coaches are excited about the improvements they’ve seen in Draper’s play and noted that he will be a reliable sub as a midfielder, and could challenge to be a starter. Kemp is new to the sport, but very athletic and tough, and has been quick to pick up new concepts and skills. Alport will see time at midfield and Husmann stated that he is poised to have a breakout season. He’s a natural athlete and could challenge for a starting position as an outside midfielder.

Sisters lost only one game in league last year, a 1-2 loss to Santiam Christian, and they hope to avenge that loss this season. The Outlaws will also face tough challenges against Pleasant Hill and Central Linn.

Husmann told The Nugget that they’ve had an increased number of players join the program this year (31). The biggest increase is the number of sophomores, which is 13.

Many of these guys haven’t played for a couple of years or are brand-new to the sport, and Husmann noted that they are eager to improve and learn with every practice.

The Outlaws are also excited that Riley Newport has joined the program as the new JV coach. Newport is a SHS alumni and will bring a lot of energy and soccer experience to the program.

Of this year’s squad, Husmann said, “I’ve been most impressed with how our six seniors have been helping the younger players develop their skills. They model the kind of support, inclusivity, and leadership that you want out of your seniors.”

He added, “I’m very excited for this hardworking and close-knit group of athletes. We had a great year last year (10-6), winning our league, so we will certainly be a marked team. Our boys are looking forward to the challenge.”

The Outlaws kicked off their season with a jamboree at Caldera on Thursday, August 24. They will match up against Madras at home on Tuesday, August 29, in a nonleague game.

Sisters salutes...

• The Sisters Cold Weather Shelter wrote: Gratitude and appreciation to Sisters Community Church for choosing the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter as the beneficiary of donations at their wonderful community concert on August 20. Over $2,000 was raised for our volunteer efforts to provide lifesaving support to our unhoused neighbors. At the event we also raised nearly $700 by selling Turkish towels and pillows donated by supporter Melanie Nelson. So many thanks for your support!

• Judy Bull wrote: I would like to hug each and every one of you who rallied to help me find my dog, Bingo, including neighbors, strangers, Nextdoor, Pet Evacuation Team, Kiki, Jerry, Teagan and all of you. It was the Nextdoor post that found her. I got the call Friday evening, saying, “We think we’ve got Bingo,” and it turns out they did. Her rescuers, Jenny and Steve, said their parrot alerted them by growling by the window when he saw her in their yard. I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am. I haven’t been this happy in years!

Seed to Table celebrates with Fall Harvest Dinner

Seed to Table will celebrate a decade of bounty and community at the organization’s 10th Anniversary Fall Harvest Dinner. The event on September 9 will feature a farm-to-table meal prepared by Chris and Emma Leyden of Feast Food Co.

Feast was recently selected for a Best of Central Oregon award by The Source Weekly The chefs’ culinary creations for the dinner will include veggies grown right on Seed to Table farm, along with grassfed lamb and a vegan option.

Served in the beautiful pasture at the center of the farm, guests will be seated at a long table to enjoy a served, family-style meal.

Reflecting on ten years of Seed to Table, founder Audrey Tehan said it felt good to “stop and pause on everything that had to come together, all the people that came together, for Seed to Table to succeed. I didn’t just get here on my own enthusiasm.”

Tehan was 23 years old when she founded the farm, now a thriving nonprofit organization with three areas of programming and a staff of eight, supported by eight board members. She predicts she’ll still be working at the farm another decade down the road, cycling to work with a dog at her heels.

“The community effort to get us here has been huge,

in so many ways,” Tehan enthused. “I’m feeling so grateful for the team members, the Board of Directors, the inspiration and knowledge they bring.”

Her thankfulness extends to the many folks in Sisters who helped get things started a decade ago: Tehan’s parents, supporters in Sisters School District, and her friends at Mahonia Gardens, along with the organization’s donors, volunteers, and sponsors.

“There’s been so much encouragement and belief that we can do it, that we can make it,” says Tehan. Seed to Table’s growth represents “the culmination of what can come from community.”

Hands-on education lies at the heart of Seed to Table. Last year, the farm hosted over 1,750 student visits, teaching children and youth to plant, tend, and harvest farmfresh food.

Tehan is excited by Seed to Table’s vigorous growth, which she credits in part to staff that have joined the team over the years. “New people that come in are inspired; they make efficient systems,” she explained. “It’s less about growing bigger and more

about growing better.”

Using sustainable agriculture techniques, the farm now grows 75,000 pounds of produce annually. The bounty reaches over 750 people through produce shares and over a dozen community partnerships with food pantries, schools, and others.

Some of that produce is sold at Sisters Farmers Market. This year marks the fourth season that Seed to Table has provided leadership and management of the whole market. “Seed to Table’s professionalism and consistency help the Market grow every year,” said Market Manager Willa Bauman.

The 10th Anniversary

Fall Harvest Dinner festivities begin with farm tours so that participants can explore the fields, hoop houses, and greenhouses where their veggies are grown. Guests are advised to wear appropriate shoes. The first tour kicks off at 4:30 p.m. Live music and plenty of socializing are readily found at the annual dinner. A threecourse meal will be served, accommodating gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan diets. The event will wrap up at 7:30 p.m. Tickets usually sell out quickly and must be purchased in advance, online. For more information, visit www.seedtotableoregon.org/ fallharvestdinner.

Seed to Table’s harvest dinner brings community together.

Obituaries

Lawren Marie Stone

Lawren Marie Stone, 72, of Sisters, passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023 with her family by her side.

Lawren was born on July 10, 1951, to James and Helen Fife in Long Beach, California. She married Gary in 1976 when they moved to Central Oregon. They lived in Redmond until the early 80s when they moved to Sisters. Gary built their dream home, where they lived and raised their family until her passing.

Lawren loved spending time outside. She loved to garden and go arrowhead and rock hunting any chance she got. She was always up for an adventure and always the first to try something new. She loved music and storytelling. Lawren had a very big sweet tooth that she passed on to most of her grandkids. She loved to spend time with her dogs and Gary on the Oregon Coast as often as they could.

She is survived by her

Valley fires impacting Sisters

Additional fire restrictions are currently in effect on the Willamette National Forest. Those restrictions include popular areas for Sisters’ OHV (off-highway vehicle) riders.

this week, with Thursday and Friday trending into “unhealthy for sensitive persons,” and Saturday of Labor Day Weekend forecast to be “unhealthy.”

husband, Gary; their children, Jeff Stone, Natasha Stowers, Karma and Jerry Crafton, Simon and Jeanelle Stone, Sara and Cary Nickless; her brother Larry (and Helen) Fife. She is also survived by her 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren as well as her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Helen, and her brother Johnny Fife.

The family will have a celebration of life at a later time.

In lieu of flowers and cards, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association: https://www. alz.org.

The new restrictions prohibit all motorized use on motorized trails, including in the Santiam Pass and Huckleberry Flats OHV areas. Off-highway vehicles are only allowed on multiuse roads, which allow both OHVs and regular motor vehicles; Motor Vehicle Use Maps show which roads are open to multi-use, and are available at Willamette National Forest offices and online: https://tinyurl. com/2dfhtpnj.

Smoke from Willamette Valley fires, combined with smoke drifting from Canada and Washington, have impacted the Sisters area — sometimes severely — for the past several weeks. Sisters Country got a respite over the weekend, with air quality improving into the moderate zone. Forecasts call for somewhat smokier conditions

The Deschutes National Forest has restricted campfires; they are only allowed in designated, developed campgrounds on all federally managed land in Central Oregon, including the Deschutes National Forest, Prineville BLM, Ochoco National Forest, or the Crooked River National Grassland.

Additionally, under the public use restrictions, smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material. Traveling off developed roads and trails also is not allowed, except for the purpose of going to and from a campsite located within 300 feet of the open developed road.

Cooking stoves, portable propane campfires, and

lanterns are allowed when operated in a responsible manner and fueled by bottled propane or liquid fuel. The exception to this is BLMdesignated campgrounds along portions of the Crooked, Deschutes, John Day, and White rivers, as well as on BLM-administered lands along Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus. These public-use restrictions do not replace the annual river corridor restrictions which were implemented June 1, 2023. Portable propane campfire devices are still prohibited in these areas.

Information on current restrictions or the current Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) can be obtained by contacting your Central Oregon Fire Use Information Line at 1-800-523-4737.

What’s it like to ride with STARS?

By Norene Gonsiewski Guest Columnist

There are many reasons people need rides to medical appointments. They may have given up driving altogether, have a temporary condition that makes driving impossible, or they may feel uncomfortable driving in inclement weather or outside of their own area. Whatever the reasons, when people stop driving themselves, they have limited options for travel to nonemergency medical appointments. Most people rely on paying for rides, or asking a friend, neighbor, or family member for assistance. The problem with these options is the expense that adds up when using paid rides for frequent appointments, and the all-too-common feeling of being a “burden” to others.

When people need frequent appointments for doctor, dentist, pharmacy, PT, eye exams, etc., they may fear that they are wearing out the acquaintances they rely upon. The risk in thinking you are a burden is that necessary appointments are missed and the services that bring us autonomy and independence are no longer optimally utilized. If we do this too often, the next ride we need may be provided by the Sisters Fire Department!

This is where STARS, Sisters Transportation and Ride Share, comes in. We provide free rides to nonemergency medical appointments in Sisters, Redmond, and Bend, Mondays through Fridays, for Sisters Country residents. I sat down with two of our riders and asked them about their experience with our services. Marti and Bruce Cockrell moved to Sisters in 2021 from Sunriver. While they feel comfortable driving in town, the Cockrells appreciate that they can leave the driving to us for trips to medical appointments. They found out about STARS on a flyer posted at the post office.

Some people may feel uncomfortable reaching out to strangers for a ride in a private car, but Marti says that she was put at ease from the first contact. Calling the STARS dispatch number on Tuesdays and Thursdays put her in touch with the first volunteer, who started the process going. She immediately felt relaxed with the interaction and remembers how professional, helpful, and efficient it was to book a ride to a medical appointment. The dispatcher took all her information and entered her data and needs into the system. She ended the call remembering that she laughed with the dispatcher and the interaction

was warm and connected. Soon she heard from a driver, who called to confirm the ride.

Both Bruce and Marti have been struck by how efficient the drivers are. They always arrive on time and most often are early. They know where they are going, their cars are clean, comfortable, and safe, and they are funny and goodnatured people. While living at Sunriver, Bruce spent years employed as a shuttle driver. He says, “I know shuttle service driving and what it takes, and the STARS drivers are really good.”

When asked if it’s ever awkward to ride with strangers, the Cockrells agreed that they have always felt welcome and comfortable. Bruce finds it wonderful to chat with the drivers, who are in essence “neighbors,” on the drive. The first topic of conversation is often what was read in The Nugget this week, and what is going on in town. The companionship is delightful, and Marti added, “there’s pretty good gossip from time to time.”

Riders who have

Marti and Bruce Cockrell

Sisters grad is following her heart to farming

Shae Gascon’s family moved to Sisters when she was in the third grade. She remembers gardening with her grandparents and how much she loved planting and harvesting fresh veggies.

Her interest in farming continued, but it wasn’t until her junior year that she spent some time at Seed to Table (S2T) farm

“I was in IEE, (Interdisciplinary Environmental Expedition) and chose farming as my extra activity,” she said. “We were working on building doors for their hoop houses. We also did some weeding. I realized how much variety there was on the farm, even learning how to build things. I thought that was super cool.”

Gascon graduated from Sisters High School in 2018.

“There weren’t S2T farm field trips back then. If there were, I would have been so into it. I think it’s so amaz ing that the elementary school kids get to do that. I know I would have been captivated by it all,” said Gascon.

Looking back at her time as a S2T high school intern, Gascon remembers seeing Audrey Tehan and the impres sion Tehan made on her.

“Audrey is charismatic,” she said. “When I was a teenager, she was such a great teacher to have. I really looked up to her. I thought it was amazing to see a woman running a farm. I wanted to hear everything she had to say. She was so knowledgeable and was happy to answer all my crazy questions. She was captivating and kind. Even when she was so busy Audrey still showed up.”

Working in an environment like S2T farm became a goal for Gascon. She made it a reality when she was hired to work on the farm.

“Now I’m a general farm laborer and I’m a part of the farm team,” said Gascon.

Her new position involves doing a variety of things.

“I’m working under an amazing team of women with different roles. I’m harvesting and weeding and doing whatever needs to get done. I hope to get on the watering rotation crew,” she said.

Seed to Table launched Gascon on an agriculture trajectory that has come full circle after other agriculture endeavors. After graduating from high school, she worked for Fry Family Farms for a few seasons in Medford. Most recently she spent two seasons working at Sungrounded Farm in Terrebonne.

Currently working as a farmer with S2T, Gascon is using everything she’s learned over the years. Along with taking care of the land, growing veggies, and harvesting them, she’s realized taking

care of her body has to be a high priority.

“I remember I didn’t know fully how to take care of my body in a job like this. Being hot, not eating or drinking enough water, all took a toll,” she said. “I really felt the struggle of that in my first year of farming. I didn’t realize how much you have to take care of your body as a farmer. You’re doing so much with it in your work.

“At first, I thought I’ll get a great tan but now I know you’ve gotta wear long sleeves,” she said, laughing. Gascon says one of her favorite veggies to grow and eat is Armenian cucumbers.

“I love them with salt, and I always put them in salads,” she said. “They’re so pretty and come in so many shapes. They are striped and go in a spiral. I remember in my first year, I was so amazed by them and all the other new

Gascon first arrived for her IEE internship in 2017.

“The farm has grown since my first visit when just the lower field was there. No upstairs or the incredibly improved vegetables,” she said.

Farm staff refer to the newer upper fields as “the upstairs.” Adding the additional land cultivation has provided more produce to sell at Sisters Farmers Market, offer to CSA members, and donate to 12 different Central Oregon food banks

“It’s so much faster and efficient. There are new people since I worked here too. The structure has changed, and the culture is really beautiful right now,” said Gascon.

When thinking about plans for her future, Gascon hopes S2T will continue to be part of her life. She hopes to grow and learn during the months the farm is in cultivation. Her

“I see a lot of growth opportunity with S2T that I haven’t seen at other farms I’ve worked for,” she said. “I can ask to take on new things like working farmer’s markets. Next year, I want to learn more about irrigation, which is so important in farming. I’ve always wanted to start my own farm. But also, I really love working with kids. So, I hope to do something with both; I’m figuring out what that is. Educating children about the food system and how to grow food is so important. S2T is perfect for that because it’s a huge part of what they do.”

Seed to Table, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit, has a mission to increase health and wellness of the Central Oregon

community through providing equitable access to locally grown, farm-fresh produce and offering opportunities in farm-based education. For information contact Audrey Tehan at audrey@seedto tablesisters.org. To learn more about Seed to Table farm visit www.seedtotableoregon.org.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Shae Gascon is working at the Seed to Table Farm in Sisters. She’s shown here with her favorite vegetable, Armenian cucumbers.

Continued from page 1

sadness; I’ve never written a strictly happy song; they just don’t feel right to me.’”

He started his professional musical career early on, releasing his first album with Kitty’s Musicbox (2004) as a sophomore in college. He has since released a full-length album, “Red Dust” (2015), and two EPs, “Rodello’s Machine” and “Animus” (2012 and 2016), with Nate Donnis of Rodello’s Machine. In 2018, he started his solo career as a singer-songwriter and has had upward momentum ever since.

When he moved to the West Coast and began having kids, he broke out, wrote, and recorded his own music. Knickerbocker’s music began to take on a life of its own, falling under the Americana genre. “After I began writing and recording my songs, I started submitting them to music competitions, as they can be good praise and give good credibility,” he said.

Knickerbocker submitted one of his songs, “Friend Like You,” to the inaugural Hollywood Independent Music Awards, which he was invited to attend after being nominated for Best Americana Song. He and his wife, Kristine, attended the

event on August 17.

The event felt like a big award show, including a galastyle event with dinner, a red carpet, and photographers.

“I felt like they executed the event well, and it was all about the music, it wasn’t overshadowed by fame. The event featured artists from around the globe; I met several artists from Portugal, Spain, Germany, Canada, Turkey, and Switzerland,” he said.

Knickerbocker won the award for Best Americana Song.

“It was great to rub elbows with some great singer-songwriters, and it felt like a legitimate win for that song,” he said.

Most of Knickerbocker’s musical inspiration comes from his wife and kids.

“I write songs for a fun, creative process and have something come to life. I write the types of songs for when my kids are older dealing with heartbreak and all the things life can throw at them; I hope my writings would help them through those times,” he said.

Knickerbocker has a nine-to-five job and writes music as a creative outlet. He works for Bend-based company Global Strategies International (GSI) doing market analysis for Fortune

500 companies.

“I write all the time, and if something hits, I have to write it down, but with a job and kids, I usually only have half an hour a night to work on it. I record around five songs a year and take the best ones to record and give the time for the songs to bake, and if it still feels like a good song – it comes to the top, and I’ll record it,” he said.

Knickerbocker plans to continue writing music, pursuing his solo career, and creating songs that can hopefully help others in life’s journey.

Learn more about Kolby Knickerbocker at www.kolby knickerbocker.com. Listen to his award-winning song at https://amzn.to/3qMt7NR.

LIFTERS: Training staves off decline from aging

Continued from page 3

reap the benefits from resistance training.

“It’s very important and vital to do strength training, resistance training,” Braun said. “I’m fighting aging. It’s mind, body, and spirit. The Greeks had it right. Our society has gotten away from that.”

Frosland lifted competitively through his 30s and 40s, then set it aside.

“Everything gets soft,” he said. “I just needed to get back into doing some kind of physical activity again. The older we get, the more important that is.”

Aging takes a toll on muscle mass and bone density — which can lead to diminished quality of life and health problems, including broken bones. Resistance training — lifting weights — has been conclusively demonstrated to stave off the effects of aging.

“At any age, we can improve that,” Frosland said.

The lifter eased back into training with a Bowflex machine, just working out, not “training” per se. Then he joined Level 5 and was drawn back into lifting competitively.

He built his strength gradually and carefully, and now he feels like he’s poised to do more. Though he was happy with his record, he believes he’s got bigger numbers in him. And he feels great, physically and psychologically.

“Now I feel fresh, and I’m ready for the next 17 years,” he said, marking the gap in his training between ages 49 and 66.

“You may not care to be competitive, and that’s fine,” Frosland said.

Sisters offers a range of opportunities to get strong and healthy.

“There’s good places here to work out, good trainers,” he said. “People can get involved at any level and benefit from resistance training.”

Braun concurs. She urges everyone of whatever age to engage in physical activity.

“It’s critical to move,” she said. “Whatever your passion is, find your passion and move,” she said.

Sisters resident Kolby Knickerbocker.

PHOTO PROVIDED

GriefShare Group

Beginning September 14, join a friendly, caring group who will walk alongside you through the experience of losing a loved one. Meetings will be ursdays f rom 2-4 p.m. at Sisters Community Church. For registration and more information, visit www grief share.org/groups/169894.

STAR S Seeks

Dispatch Volunteers

While working from home, help STAR S transport Sisters Country resident s to nonemergenc y medical appointments . Needed: A computer, the abilit y to use online apps, and a telephone. Call 541-9 04-5545 . STAR S is an AFSC Action Team.

Weekly Food Pantry

e Wellhouse Church hosts a weekly food pantr y ursdays at 3 p.m. at 222 N . Trinit y Way Both drive-through pick-up and shopping-st yle distribution are available. Call 541-549-4184 for information.

Craf ters Wanted

Qualit y craf t-consigners wanted for the 47th Snowflake Boutique, November 3 and 4, 2023 . Juries will be held on Saturdays September 9 and October 7, beginning at 9:30 a.m., at Highland Baptist Church, Redmond . An evening jur y will be October 16 at 6 p.m. Info: www.snowflakeboutique.org or call Tina 541-4 47-164 0 or Kim 541- 640-2536

Free Weekly Meal Service

Family Kitchen hosts weekly togo hot meals on Tuesdays , 4:30 to 6 p.m. Sisters Community Church, 130 0 McKenzie Hwy Visit www.FamilyKitchen .org

Free Lunches for Seniors

For those 60+, the Council on Aging of Central Oregon o ers a f un, no-cost social lunch every Tuesday, 11 a .m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 1300 McKenzie Hwy. No reser vations needed. No-cost Grab-N- Go lunches take place weekly on Wed . and urs ., f rom 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367.

Camp Sherman

Pancake Breakfast

Bring your family and f riends to a traditional Pancake Breakfast at the Camp Sherman Communit y Hall, Sunday, September 3 , f rom 8 to 11 a.m. Enjoy all-you-can-eat ham, eggs , pancakes , orange juice, and co ee. Adult s $12; children 5 to 10 years $8, under 5 f ree. Proceeds benefit Camp Sherman Historical Societ y and Friends of the Metolius . For more information contact Lorie at 541-595-2719.

Sisters French Club

For people interested in French culture and language, Sisters French Club meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m . at e Barn, 171 E . Main Ave. All levels are welcome. e next meeting will be August 7. For more information, visit Facebook @SistersFrenchClub.

A NNOUNCEMENT S

Veterans Piz z a Feed

All militar y veterans are invited to an annual piz z a feed on Wednesday, September 6, located at Takoda’s Restaurant starting at 5:30 p.m. is event is sponsored by the VFW, American Legion, and Band of Brothers . For info, call Charles Wilson, 847-344-0498.

Sisters Farmers Market

Seek s Volunteers

Sisters Farmers Market is looking for Market Day helpers

Volunteers assist with market set-up and breakdown, sta the information booth, and help with a variet y of other tasks . To learn more, call 541-9 04-1034 or email sistersfarmersmarket@ gmail.com . Sisters Farmers Market is located at Fir Street Park, 150 N Fir St., Sisters . e market is open Sundays , 10 a .m. until 2 p.m., through September

Central Oregon Federated Republican Meeting

COFRW (Central Oregon

Federated Republican Women) meet s the first ursday of every month f rom 10:45 a .m. to 1 p.m. at Brand 33 at A spen Lakes Golf Club, Sisters. Meetings include lunch for $27. R SVP required. On September 7 the special guest speaker will be Suzanne Gallagher f rom Parents Right s in Education, whose organiz ation has just been recognized on a national level. Learn more about upcoming meetings and speakers , and RSVP at www COFRW.net.

Sunday School for Children

Church of the Transfiguration is now o ering Sunday School for children, ages 5 to 12, regardless of church a liation, during both Sunday worship ser vices. Protestant/ecumenical ser vice is at 8:30 a .m. and Episcopal service begins at 10:15 a .m. e church address is 121 Brook s Camp Rd . Sisters . For info call Margaret Doke at 541-588-2784.

Volunteer Oppor tunities in Sisters Sisters Countr y Connects is a website that allows volunteers to connect with oppor tunities to ser ve in Sisters Country Organizations post volunteer needs and those seeking to serve can read details about oppor tunities and find contact information. Go to www sisterscommunity.org/volunteer/.

Historic Sisters

Docent-led Walking Tours

Family-f riendly and free! Take the “Downtown Sisters L andmarks Tour ” and learn the histor y of Sisters’ oldest buildings and early pioneers . Held Wednesdays and Sundays at 10 a .m. For reservations email museum@ threesistershistoricalsociet y. org or call the Sisters Museum at 541-549-1403 . Or take the “Camp Polk Cemeter y Tour ” led by a direct descendant of our earliest families . “Mar tha Cobb” has stories to tell! Sept. 2 at 10 a.m. C all Jan at 541-788-0274 to make a reser vation

Join a Saturday Morning Interpretive Walk

Friends of the Metolius sponsors free Saturday morning walks to all interested persons. Children are more than welcome, but dogs are not appropriate. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water

On Saturday, September 2, join Scott Blau on a two-hour walk f rom Camp Sherman Bridge to Allingham Bridge and back. Learn about the unique riparian habitat of the Metolius ecosystem, explore early Camp Sherman history, and obser ve changes made to the river to enhance fish habitat. Meet at the Camp Sherman Bridge fishviewing platform at 9 a.m. For information call 503-730-8034.

Making a Di erence Made Easy in Sisters Country Age Friendly Sisters Country (AFSC) fiscally sponsors three great Action Teams , and two of them currently need your help to advance their project s to improve livabilit y in Sisters Countr y. Help the Family Friendly Restroom Team get their project (literally!) o the ground by going to www agef riendlysisters .com and following the links to volunteer Go to starsride.org to learn more about their Action Team. Call AFSC directly at 541-241-7910 to learn more about what we do.

STAR S Seek s Volunteers to Transpor t Patients

Help Sisters Countr y residents get to nonemergenc y medical appointments in Sisters , Redmond , and Bend . Attend a free t wo-hour training. Emails from STAR S dispatchers allow you to accept dates and times that work for your schedule, and a mileage reimbursement is included . Learn more at www starsride.org. STAR S is an AFSC Action Team.

Announce Your Celebr ations!

Sisters community notices may run at no charge. Email nug get@ nug getnews .com

Deschutes

Public Librar

y Is Seeking New Art

New construction and upgrades to our Deschutes

Count y libraries have created an oppor tunity for our Deschutes Libraries to expand their art collections . e Art

Committee seeks art in all media and genres: this can include painting , printmaking , sculpture, glass , fiber, f unctional, digital, photography, installation, mixe d-media, and new media genres . Applications f rom artists will be accepted through the CaFÉ website. Visit https:// artist.callforentr y.org/festival s_ unique_info.php?ID =116 44 Send direct questions to: DPL art.commit tee@gmail.com.

Stop Shouting!

Collabor ation rough Candid Conversation

On Wednesday, September 6 at 9 a .m. at the Sisters Firehouse Community Hall a free workshop will be o ered by Citizens4Communit y with Scott Crabtree, C4C board member. Come improve your abilit y to skillfully navigate disagreements so that everyone fares better. Learn more at www citizens4community.com/event s.

STAR S Volunteer

Driver Training

STAR S will train new drivers 10 :30 a .m. until noon on Friday, September 15 at Sisters Firehall Training Room. Complete an easy application online at https://starsride.org/volunteer.

Click “Drive for us.” To apply in person, arrive at 10 a .m. STARS has a flexible commitment and o ers mileage reimbursement Email volunteer@starsride.org with questions . We are an AFSC Action Team.

Americ an Legion and VFW Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 130 0 McKenzie Hwy. All members invited to attend . Call Charles Wilson, 847-344-0498.

Sisters High Deser t Chorale Rehearsals

Rehearsals for the chorale will begin Monday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Episcopal church. No audition required and all singers are welcome! Come join us for our upcoming December concert. For more information call Irene Liden at 541-549-1037 or email lidenmez zo@gmail.com

Humane Societ y of Central Oregon 541-382-3537

DELIL AH

is one-year-old lady came to HSCO with her litter of kittens. She spent some time in one of our wonderful foster homes until her kittens were old enough to find homes of their own. Delilah is a beautiful, calm, and sweet girl and is ready to give up “the streets” for a comfie home and some caring folk. If you think Delilah might belong on your sofa, swing by HSCO to meet her today!

BROKEN TOP Veterinar y Clinic 541-389-0391

541-549-2275 • 541-549-8836

SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES

Baha’i Faith

For information, devotions, study groups , etc , contact Shauna Rocha 541-6 47-9826 • www.bahai.org • w ww bahai.us • w ww.bahaiteaching .org

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

121 N Brook s Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087

8:30 a .m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship

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

Sisters Church of the N az arene

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

10 a .m. Sunday Worship

Sisters Communit y Church (Nondenominational)

130 0 W. McKenzie Hw y. • 541-549-1201

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

Chapel in the Pines Camp Sherman • 541-815-9153

10 a .m. Sunday Worship

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (ELCA) 386 N . Fir Street • 541-549-5831

10 a .m. Sunday Worship

www.shepherdof thehillsluther anchurch.com

St . Edward the Mar tyr Roman Catholic Churc h

123 Trinit y Way • 541-549-9391

5:3 0 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass • 9 a .m. Sunday Mass

12 p.m. Monday Mass • 8 a .m. Tuesday-Friday Mass

e Church of Jesus Christ of L at ter-Day Saint s

452 Trinit y Way • Branch President, 541-420 -5670;

10 a .m. Sunday Sac rament Meeting

Calvar y Church

484 W. Washing ton St. , Ste. C & D • 541-588-6288

10 a .m. Sunday Worship • w ww.ccsisters.org

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

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

11 a .m. S aturday Worship

POLICY: Nonprofits, schools , churches , birth, engagement, wedding , and anniversar y notices may run at no charge. Business items do not run on this page. All submissions subject to editing and run as space allows . Email janice@nug getnews .com or drop o at 4 42 E . Main Ave. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays

Continued from page 2

I am delighted that Bunkhouse Chronicles has emerged from an apparent hibernation.

Jerry Wright

s s s Biden failures

To the Editor:

I am writing in response to the letter to the editor which appeared in the August 16 edition of The Nugget, submitted by Terry Weygandt. I most certainly respect the freedom of the press provided to us by the Constitution. It is good to hear and respect dissenting opinions. However, wrapped in the bubble of freedom is the right to dissent and express your own reasons for dissenting.

I have absolutely no respect for the performance of the present President of the United States (POTUS). His performance has certainly fertilized a sharp division in operational outcome and the integrity of the implementation of the action. Congress is certainly at fault as well, but we are not addressing that institution. I believe POTUS’ incompetence is exacerbated by a lack of knowledge, understanding, and propelled by the overall divisive effect on the population.

Obscured by all the fog there is no viable expedient answer, as we are at present only screaming at each other. There is very little in the way of constructive advice that is being offered which collects a sufficient audience to see if there is a light at the end of any identified tunnel. The substance of the issues are very lengthy and ignite philosophical collisions. I will not express my opinion on each, as that is not necessary. I personally feel that leadership is absent in all below instances, evidenced by the eventual collapse or start to self-destruct environment that erupts.

Yet he is still propelling solutions through obstructed channels to same actions as an accelerant to the underlying philosophy, accelerating the issue even further.

3. Cancelled Operation Legend. Cannot figure out why he did that.

4. He has essentially weaponized federal law enforcement.

5. He gave permission for Nord Stream, weakening the Ukraine defense mechanism.

6. The border crisis. Every bit of it is his or his cabinet’s responsibility.

7. He has signed no bipartisan legislation, in one case negotiated a compromise.

8. He essentially disabled the pipeline and withdrew strategic oil reserves, which he will have to fill with much more expensive product. The action inherently negatively affects our national security.

9. Highest fuel prices in history, highest food, supply chain disruption can all be laid to his inept activity.

10. Where do you think he really stands on the entire Burisma story?

Do you remember the incident several years ago relative to the accusations of plagiarism during the journey he must have undertaken to obtain his law degree? I do.

STARS:

scheduled medical appointments are welcome to bring a companion with them. Sometimes it is necessary, such as when a medical process is done requiring sedation, and sometimes it is to be that second set of ears at an appointment. Bruce and Marti often ride together so they can be there at their spouse’s consultation, or they schedule their lab tests at the same time. One of the drivers, Chris West, sometimes brings doughnuts to share, and they hang on by their fingernails until after the lab visit so they can savor one.

Rides to health appointments are offered Monday through Friday. If you, or someone you know, needs a ride to a medical appointment, call 541-904-5545, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A dispatcher can help you get the wheels rolling on being a STARS rider.

Marti and Bruce summed up their experience this way: “What STARS really stands for is…”

The major issues:

1. Afghanistan pullout. Poor preparation, you never never abandon your exit path while continuing to being engaged by the enemy. You certainly do not leave billions of dollars of operational equipment for the enemy to seize and utilize.

2. Inflation. Even the President has acknowledged he miscalculated that move.

Enough. We need somebody with courage, guts, intellect, integrity to lead this country, otherwise the bulldozer of dissent, will act as an incubator for the overgrowth of what will eventually become the new growth to cover the lifeless footprints of capitalism.

Art Mitchell

s s s

On a positive note...

To the Editor:

There has been so much said about “hot” topics in our small town, I would like to find a positive note about Sisters to be grateful for: Thank God we no longer have “backwards” parking!

I am also grateful we have someone so ded icated to our free weekly paper, The Nugget and our community as Jim Cornelius.

Bill Anttila

s s s

See LETTERS on page 17

S-Safe and Sharing Stories

T-Terrific and on Time

A-Amazing

R-Reliable

S-Smiley STARS is an action team of Age Friendly Sisters Country.

e policies are purchased through C Ser vices Inc., from a third party insurer not a iliated with COUNTRY Financial. Availability di ers by state LOSING OHP? Act NOW to see if you qualify to enroll in a Marketplace health plan during the special enrollment period. 8 out of 10 Oregonians do qualify for financial help to lower monthly costs. Call me today for an appointment! Linda Alldredge 178 S. Elm St., Ste. 100, Sisters linda.alldredge@countr yfinancial.com countr yfinancial.com/linda.alldredge 541-549-6946 e are purchased CC 175 N. Larch St 541-549-6114 hardtailsoregon.com Facebook darcymacey 5 h 4 HAPPY HOUR Monday-Friday, 3 to 6 PM Open 10 a.m. to midnight KARAOKE FRIDAYS 8 PM TO MIDNIGHT Sheila Reifschneider Broker 541-408-6355 sheila.reifschneider@ ealty.com W. Cascade Ave. 549-6000 REPRESENTING THE BUYERS 1805 W. Williamson Avenue, Sisters 1,800 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, .15 acres MLS#220159462 REPPRESENTIN S d! Year-round FIREWOOD SALES Kindling — SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS 541-410-4509 SistersForestProducts.com

OUTLAWS SOCCER GOES INTERNATIONAL

By Rongi Yost | Correspondent

For the first time in Sisters High School (SHS) history, a team traveled abroad to compete in an international tournament. The girls soccer team, dubbed the Oregon Outlaws, traveled to Hamburg, Germany to compete in the Laola Cup, held July 24-27. The annual event was put on by Ballfruende, who organize 30 different sporting tournaments throughout Europe every year.

Twenty-two countries, including Iceland, Ireland, Poland, Finland, England, Sweden, China, Canada, USA, Gambia, and Uganda were represented, and over 200 teams, both boys and girls, were in attendance.

The Oregon Outlaws brought 15 players, including Josie Patton, Sage and Shae Wyland, Marley Holden, Izzy Schiller, Lilly Sundstrom, Juhree Kizziar, Maggie Lutz, Ella Davis, Zoee Bafford, Ella Eby, Rylie Bick, Tallis Grummer, Ava Riehle, and Jordan Velikonia, to the tournament. With the addition of parents and siblings, 38 people from Sisters attended the event. Becca Clausen, a foreign exchange student at SHS this past year, lives in Hamburg and joined the Outlaws’ team. Clausen, along with her parents, met the Sisters entourage at the airport, and welcomed them to Germany.

The tournament kicked off with opening ceremonies on July 24. An announcer stood in the middle of

the field, and as each country was announced, teams from that country paraded in, holding their flag and chanting and cheering. As teams entered they made a huge circle around the announcer, and welcomed each other in celebration of the 2023 Laola Cup.

Games began the following day. The Oregon Outlaws’ bracket consisted of six teams: Poland, England, Finland, two teams from Germany (JFV Germany and FC Reinbach), and the Outlaws. The Outlaws opened play against Poland and England. The Poland team carried a U17 national team captain on their squad, and England entered as an open division, which included a 27-year-old that won the Women’s Premier title with Leicester City.

The Oregon Outlaws went into the tournament with their 4-5-1 formation from last year — a very defensive formation with a breakout attack — which proved to be

unsuccessful in both games.

Although it was a rough run, the Outlaws made a very special bond with the team from England.

Coach Brian Holden said, “The bond they formed with England during that game lasted the entire tournament. They supported each other while they played, ate dinners together, exchanged Snapchat and Instagram accounts, and bantered back and forth.”

After the Outlaws’ tough games against England and Poland, Holden knew he needed to do something different on day two.

“We decided as a team to change our lineup and our formation,” said Holden. “We faced two German teams and walked away with success, wins, and goal-differential, which allowed us to advance on day three. Whatever points a team accumulates on day one and day two seeds you for what place you play for on the third and final day.

“The momentum that the girls gained on day two built confidence, offensive attack, and team unity,” said Holden. “That momentum propelled them into a game to compete for third place.”

At the start of the third day the Outlaws faced Finland. The Outlaws needed to tie or win the game to advance, and Finland had to get the win to advance to a third- or fourthplace finish.

The Oregon Outlaws dominated offensively, with little pressure on the defense, and even without finding the net they advanced with a 0-0 tie.

The Outlaws then faced JFV Germany in their final game. They scored within the first five minutes of play and ended the half with an additional goal to go up 2-0. The Outlaws added a goal in the second half, and posted a 3-0 shutout for the third-place finish.

At the close of the tournament

unsuccessful in both games. “The momentum that the girls

The Oregon Outlaws with the Ugandan boys team. The Oregon Outlaws had an exceptional opportunity to connect with others who love the game from around the world.

The Sisters girls after winning the game for third place.

“It was amazing to be able to play again in a new position as holding midfielder,” said Lutz. “The highlight of the tournament to me was winning third place. It was the best we had played the whole tournament. I’ve had medals before, but I’ve never hoisted a cup. It was absolutely exhilarating.”

Outlaws to join them for their team pictures. They huddled together and then chanted “BK West, BK West,” followed by “US-AA, US-AA!”

decided to combine and play a friendly game against the African refugees who have now settled in

teams gathered for the Awards Ceremony.

teams gathered for the Awards

When it was time for third place to be awarded, the announcer, with a thick German accent, said, “For third place, coming all the way from the USA, Sisters, Oregon!”

The crowd cheered and shouted “USA, USA,” as they approached the podium, and then the announcer said, “Come on, show us how you celebrate this in US. This is your moment.”

In a traditional European celebration, the girls held hands, lowered the cup in unity, and then hoisted it above their heads chanting “USA, USA, USA,” along with all the other countries.

Holden said, “Never have these girls celebrated with this tradition. It was a once-in-a-lifetime, memorable experience for all of us.”

Senior Maggie Lutz, who has been out for two years due to injury, shared her highlight of the trip.

Teams did get some downtime, and the Outlaws and England decided to combine and play a friendly game against the African refugees who have now settled in Hamburg. The refugees couldn’t afford to play in the actual tournament, so coaches and teams collaborated in a friendly experience.

The Holdens told The Nugget there were many memorable cultural moments, but a couple really stood out as highlights.

“Athletes from different countries celebrate each other’s successes and playing style, and one that really stood out was the Gambian boys U15 team (BK West),” said Coach Holden. “Those boys had incredible footwork, and dynamic attack. They were so talented and gifted with the ball, and they really celebrated. When they scored, multiple people flooded the field in celebration of that single goal, and their coach raced up and down the sideline shaking water on all the fans. It took several minutes to clear the field so play could continue.”

After their game against Iceland, the Gambian team encouraged the

Holden explained, “What that meant was, one sport, one world. It was bigger than the game. It was about bringing people together no matter your skin color, your religion, your race, your country, or your socioeconomic level. It was an amazing experience.”

Several parents and siblings came along on the trip for the special event, and a few parents shared their thoughts with The Nugget

Tammy Bick said, “What a grand opportunity to experience the Laola Cup in Germany as a family. The tournament allowed young players to truly share a diverse experience of matches and it fostered new friendships. The Outlaws maintained supreme sportsmanship on and off the field. Lifelong created memories of team bonding, international friendships, and well-played matches are what this parent appreciates. Thank you to Coach Brian for your vision of an awesome team-bonding experience first and some great soccer matches second. Also, thank you to Julie (Holden) for countless hours helping the Lady Outlaws earn dollars to attend, while giving back to our local soccer community. The Holdens continue to coach

up these players to be the best version of themselves locally and now internationally.”

Jennifer Wyland said, “The entire experience was unforgettable! Watching teams from all over the world come together to compete for the love of the game! The Sisters girls represented their community and their country with integrity, spirit, and sportsmanship. With every match they played they upped their game. By the last game they were on fire! I hope this is the start of a new tradition for the Sisters soccer program.”

The experience in itself was incredible, but it looks like it doesn’t end there.

Coach Holden explained, “This experience has generated an international interest to come to Sisters! The Uganda U10 boys and the Gambian (BK West) boys want to come to Sisters and play in a tournament next summer. In addition, the English women, Stamford AFC, hope to come to Sisters next summer and host a clinic in collaboration with the SHS girls soccer team, which will also include exhibition games.”

chanted “BK West, by US-AA!”

WORKSHOP: ‘Stop Shouting’ to be facilitated by Crabtree

Continued from page 3

in Sisters Country for free.

“It’s during work hours.” Crabtree explained, “because the skills we learn and practice will absolutely help your career. And the immediately applicable techniques can be used by anyone, at work or in the rest of our lives.”

Research suggests that for most of us, the most important factor in our happiness is the quality of our relationships. So, after moving to Sisters in February of 2021, Crabtree, founder and chief happiness officer of Happy Brain Science, immediately started seeking to build relationships with members of the Sisters community.

“I know that relationships are key to happiness and well-being”, said Crabtree. “The core of what C4C does is build community, so I’m excited to offer this workshop in partnership with C4C.”

The session will help participants examine their beliefs and typical approaches to conflict. It will help people experience how a healthy mix of both assertion and cooperation are key to working through issues. And because disagreements can so easily go off the rails when we get upset, Crabtree will also work to boost emotional intelligence — our ability to recognize and manage emotions in ourselves and others.

Registration is not required; the event is firstcome, first-served. Based on the attendance for Crabtree’s previous workshop “Remember This! The Science of Learning and Memory,” the room will be full. Anyone who wants to be sure to get a seat might consider arriving early. For more details, visit the C4C site at https://citizens 4community.com/events/ stop-shouting-sept-23.

To learn more about Happy Brain Science or contact Scott Crabtree, visit www.HappyBrainScience. com.

To learn more about C4C, visit www.citizens4 community.org or contact Kellen Klein at director@ citizens4community.com.

Sisters-Area Events & Enter tainment

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 30

Lake Creek Lodge Live Music: Dirk Van Houweling

5-7 p.m. Info: www.lakecreeklodge.com/events/.

THURSDAY • AUGUST 31

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night

Sign up at 5:30 Starts promptly at 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Dog-and family-friendly Free For info call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 1

Hardtails Karaoke with KJ Mindy

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

Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Live Music: Paula Dreyer Canoe Concert Series, 4 to 6 p.m. Enjoy the concert on the lawn, or take a pair of headphones out in a canoe (your own or one of ours) Paula will be accompanied by painter Karen Eland for this special performance. Tickets $10 at https://bendticket.com.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Car Show/Live Music: Toothpick Shaker 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool or vintage car for the car show — or come to see them! For more info call 541-549-2471

Sisters Depot Live Music: Robert Lassila Quintet

6-8 p.m. Reservations recommended. Info: www.sistersdepot.com/events.

SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 2

Sisters Depot Live Music: Doc Ryan Trio & Friends

6-8 p.m. American Roots music $5 cover. Reservations recommended. Info: www.sistersdepot.com/events.

SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 3

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music, community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Pete Kar tsounes 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio All ages Free Information at facebook.com/SistersSaloonAndRanchGrill.

WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 6

Lake Creek Lodge Live Music: Connor Bennett 5-7 p.m. Information: www.lakecreeklodge.com/events/.

The Barn in Sisters Live Music: Reb And The Good News 6 to 8 p.m. Weather permitting For information go to www thebarninsisters.com.

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 7

Paulina Springs Books Book Talk David Stevenson presents “Points of Astonishment: Alpine Stories.” 6:30-7:30 p.m. Info: PaulinaSpringsBooks.com.

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night

Sign up at 5:30 Starts promptly at 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Dog-and family-friendly Free For info call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 8

Sisters Depot Live Music: Bob Baker & Mark Barringer 6-8 p.m. $5 cover. Reservations recommended. Info: www.sistersdepot.com/events.

The Belfr y Live Music: Marty O’Reilly with Calvin Arsenia and Blair Borax 7 p.m. Marty’s voice is beautiful and unique his lyrics stark yet lush over gritty electrified guitar melding beautifully into genre-defying music Presented by The Whippoorwill Presents. Tickets, $20, at www.bendticket.com.

Hardtails Karaoke with KJ Mindy 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. For more information call 541-549-6114.

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 8 (continued)

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Car Show & Live Music: Desert Sons 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool or vintage car for the car show — or come to see them! For more info call 541-549-2471

SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 9

Sisters Depot Live Music: Use’ta Do 6-8 p.m. Bend-based roots-country and bluegrass band, performing with a nod to great musical eras. $5 cover. Reservations recommended. Info: www.sistersdepot.com/events.

The Barn in Sisters Live Music: Honey Don’t 6 to 8 p.m. Weather permitting For information go to www thebarninsisters.com.

SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 10

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For information visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Western Triple 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio All ages Free Information at facebook.com/SistersSaloonAndRanchGrill.

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 14

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night Sign up at 5:30 Starts promptly at 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Dog-and family-friendly Free For info call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 15

The Barn in Sisters Live Music: Sonic Benders 6 to 8 p.m. Weather permitting For information go to www thebarninsisters.com.

Hardtails Karaoke with KJ Mindy

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

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Car Show & Live Music: Smoke Drifters 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool or vintage car for the car show — or come to see them! For more info call 541-549-2471

SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 16

Sisters Depot Live Music: Seth Burrows Trio 6-8 p.m. Reservations recommended. Info: www.sistersdepot.com/events.

The Barn in Sisters Live Music: Use’ta Do 6 to 8 p.m. Bend-based roots-country and bluegrass band, performing with a nod to great musical eras. Weather permitting For information go to www thebarninsisters.com.

SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 17

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Coyote Willow 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio All ages Free Information at facebook.com/SistersSaloonAndRanchGrill.

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 21

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night

Sign up at 5:30 Starts promptly at 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Dog-and family-friendly Free For info call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER

Scott Crabtree.

“Great customer service, friendly and knowledgeable. We always feel like you have our backs and best interest in mind.”

— R. Criazzo

TOURISM: Public wants to see ‘deliverables’ from organization

Continued from page 1

created in 2022 by the City of Sisters, displacing Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce, who for years was the recipient of lodging tax funds to promote Sisters. Explore Sisters is an independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization with its own board of directors and an executive director, Scott Humpert.

The founding board of Explore Sisters includes Greg Willitts of FivePine Lodge & Conference Center, chair; Crista Munro of Sisters Folk Festival, vice chair; Jesse Durham of Sisters Coffee, secretary; Casey Meudt of Blazin Saddles, treasurer; Michael Preedin, mayor, City Council representative; Nancy Connolly, member atlarge; and Kerry Prosser, City of Sisters liaison.

Deep into the tourist season citizens are expressing curiosity as to Explore Sisters’ visibility.

“Where’s the beef?” asks Bill Kelly of Sisters, a marketing consultant and member of the Public Works Advisory Board. “Where are the deliverables?”

Like others he has not seen any broadcast commercials, events, ads, posters, or any promotional materials produced by Explore Sisters.

“Maybe they exist; I just haven’t seen them,” Kelly said.

Mike Webster is “astonished that Explore Sisters

doesn’t have its own website.” Visitors to www.explore sisters.com are redirected to www.visitcentraloregon.com a catch-all site for 12 Central Oregon communities.

The Nugget asked Humpert where the DMO stands.

“We’re making steady progress,” he said. “There’s been a lot of policy and procedure work to be done, creating a business plan and gearing up for defining the brand.”

Explore Sisters has engaged Holly Macfee, owner and principal at Lookout, a destination, wine, and culinary branding and marketing consultancy based in Portland. Lookout focuses on helping destinations and craft food, beverage, and hospitality clients define their offerings and communicate that experience through brand development, strategic marketing planning, and campaigns.

Kelly was surprised that Explore Sisters would have to go outside itself for this expertise, assuming that such tasks would be produced in-house.

Humpert said that Lookout will develop “a logo and voice… set the tone

and messaging” for Explore Sisters, who has formed a seven- to eight-person brand committee.

Humbert told The Nugget that he has been out “pounding the pavement,” working the streets meeting business owners. He says that his reception has been mostly positive and acknowledges that some, like Kelly, have raised the question of when the group will be more visible.

“We put out a survey to 160 businesses seeking input to help guide us in our planning. We got 80 responses, a good sampling,” Humbert reported.

That survey was the source of annoyance to Mark Dickens, who mentioned the survey in remarks he made to City Council August 9.

Dickens, who represents an ad hoc group known as CATS — Community Action Team of Sisters, disparaged the survey as being secretive and Explore Sisters for exploiting Sisters and turning it “into another Sunriver.”

Explore Sisters says its primary purpose “is to increase livability and economic vitality through the development of intelligent

Events like the Sisters Folk Festival, set for September 29 through October 1, draw visitors to Sisters who share local values. That’s the kind of tourism Explore Sisters seeks to promote.

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 four-season visitation and overnight stays.”

Humpert said Explore Sisters hopes to sustain Sisters’ quality of livability by managing tourism to insure they attract “the right person

at the right time in the right place.” This phrase has been met with some criticism that it sounds elitist.

Using a rifle versus a shotgun approach, the DMO’s messaging aims to attract distinct tourists who value a small-town atmosphere and surrounding nature that locals value. It’s not the quantity of tourists, rather the quality of tourists, that will have a higher economic impact on our economy while preserving the livability and sustainability for permanent residents Explore Sisters foresees.

That Spirit is reflected in an adventurous way of life. Some of that adventure is found out in the landscape, on the trails and rivers. But adventure is also found in the creative and entrepreneurial Spirit that shows up in local businesses, philanthropic efforts, the work of artists and musicians — even in the food and drink we enjoy. It’s a can-do Spirit, a Spirit of exploration that isn’t found just anywhere. We take inspiration from the magnificence of nature — and also from the dedicated work that so many of

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

HEARING: Shelter siting has stoked controversy in Sisters

Continued from page 1

House Bill 3395. That application took effect on August 15.

HB3395 specifies that a decision on the shelter application can be made with or without a hearing. The City Council opted to hold a hearing. Until this week, the City had indicated that a decision on the SCWS shelter application would be made by City staff.

The legislation does not indicate who should hold a hearing or what format it should take other than to specify that the approval is not subject to the land use process. The only appeal option on a decision is recourse to the courts.

City Recorder Kerry Prosser told The Nugget that the location and format of the hearing are to be determined. An agenda for the hearing is expected to be released by August 31. Asked if a decision will be rendered at the September 5 meeting, Prosser stated, “There will likely be two meetings, second date TBD.”

Mayor Michael Preedin spoke with The Nugget about the City Council decision to take on this issue, which was made during last Wednesday’s City Council meeting.

“With the enormity of this issue… we just decided with all of the discussion, the only real option that didn’t look like we were avoiding the situation was to take it head-on and have the Council make the final decision,” Preedin said.

The City could have brought in a neutral hearings officer to decide on the issue, but to Preedin, that would not consider citizen input.

Luis Blanchard, SCWS board president, spoke with The Nugget about the change in the process and what it means for the application.

“It was a surprise to hear, and during our meeting with legal counsel and the City, we were advised to reapply to make it clearer that we met those qualifications, but now the process is getting more and more delayed,” said Blanchard.

Mayor Preedin stated that he believes the Council and staff are working promptly to make a decision.

“If we were delaying the process, we wouldn’t have set a special City Council meeting for this. The new application came on August 15, and we responded to it a week later in a Council meeting,” he said. “Other than just this business with the shelter, we have many people’s business to do.”

The City will have a special meeting less than two weeks after the submission of the new application,

Preedin noted. Blanchard believes Council’s decision to opt for a hearing violates the state law as it is written.

“It could stand for legal grounds against the City according to the application requirements under the state law,” he said.

The Council must give staff adequate time to review the newly submitted application; findings and discussion will go into the special meeting from the staff level. Even though according to Blanchard the SCWS application is no different than their previous one, it is noted under HB3395 that the staff must still review the new application.

“We must give the public notice, and we can’t just throw together a public meeting daily. We aren’t doing it because of the applicant; we are doing it because that’s what is best for the citizens of Sisters,” said Preedin.

“I think the way the law is written is clear as to what’s required of the application process: Do you qualify?” said Blanchard. “Does the building meet the standards? Is there any legitimate safety threat to the public? I feel strongly that we meet those qualifications and had strong grounds for an appeal if we are denied.”

The closing date for the shelter’s building purchase was already extended due to the reapplication.

“Due to the hearing on Tuesday, September 5, the next closing date will have

passed and puts the buyer at risk of losing the property,” said Blanchard.

After working closely with them in the process, Blanchard was disappointed in the City’s decision and believed there would be negative implications against the City for deciding to go the route of a hearing.

Opponents of the shelter don’t appear to be any happier with the City’s decision.

According to Eric Knirk, a shelter opponent, “Nothing has changed. The City is not prepared nor has the resources. The applicant is not prepared and doesn’t have the experience. They haven’t been transparent.”

According to Knirk, the City has yet to respond to a five-page letter prepared by an attorney and believes they should have rejected the application immediately.

“I don’t understand how you can move forward with a hearing,” he said.

The determination of the Council to take on this decision didn’t make either the opposition or the applicant happy, due to what Blanchard believes to be a draggingout process. Knirk and likeminded opponents believe they should not move forward with a hearing and ought just reject the application.

Preedin’s thoughts about taking the issue on come down to being an elected official.

“We are not an open democracy where everybody gets to vote on everything.

The reason there are elected officials is because we have a representative democracy. People elect us to make these hard decisions. For situations like this with black, white, and a ton of gray in the middle, I think it’s appropriate for the Council to make the decision and not have staff decide and not have a hearing officer decide it,” said Preedin.

Preedin noted that no matter the decision, not everyone will be happy.

“We will make the decision and move on from that. There will be movements from one side or the other, and we will see what happens the day after,” he said.

Mayor Preedin and the Council plan to structure the hearing as a land use public hearing, even though the application, under the statute,

is not a land use issue. There are no guidelines on handling a situation like this; the City is trying to create a framework that makes sense for most people and resembles what people are used to. They will start with a presentation from the City staff, open up the hearing for public testimony, and then, as a council, hold deliberations before making a majority vote.

“We are trying to frame it so the public can comment and hear our council discussion as a public-record hearing,” said Preedin.

The Council is hopeful they will have a decision made by the end of that meeting, likely with a follow-up meeting to draft language based on which way the decision goes. Editor Jim Cornelius contributed to this story.

LETTERS

Continued from page 11

No to shelter

To the Editor:

I recently learned from The Nugget , the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS) somehow received $1.46 million of taxpayer money in the form of a grant, but SCWS does not qualify under the law to operate as a permanent shelter — that begs the question, how were they approved for the grant? SCWS then applied to City of Sisters under a law they did not meet the qualifications for, but were not denied by the City — why? Now we learn, again from The Nugget, the SCWS has not been a nonprofit long enough to meet the requirements for a second application under a different law, but the City, instead of denying the second application as it should have, is considering ignoring the law by using the IRS filing date for SCWS becoming a nonprofit as qualifying instead of the disqualifying effective date — this after meeting with “representatives” from Salem.

Playing fast and loose with the rule of law is a slippery slope that can cause irreparable harm to the City’s image and undermine the public trust. This entire process is suspect in my opinion, and there appears to be a concerted effort by activists to force a permanent shelter on our community. This leaves me with little confidence the shelter will be properly managed if approved and our quality of life will suffer as a result.

Crime is a concern. A RAND corporation study determined that winter homeless shelters cause a 53 percent increase in property

crime. How many felons or sex offenders will be guests at the proposed shelter? The state of Oregon is home to the most sex offenders per capita in the U.S. There are currently 772 sex offenders per every 100,000 people in Oregon. The national average is 237 per 100,000. There are hundreds of sexual predators (the most serious offenders) not listed in the database because of backlog. Oregon’s public sex offender website currently only lists about 5 percent of the state’s nearly 33k registered sex offenders. To date, Oregon has never had a complete public list of sex offenders — denying citizens the legal right to be informed.

Sisters is a beautiful community — following in the footsteps of Portland will be a disaster for our city. I strongly oppose the shelter.

JK Wells

Editor’s note:

As reported in the August 23 edition of The Nugget, the City of Sisters accepts the August 12, 2020 “effective date” as the determinative date for SCWS’ qualification as a shelter operator. City Manager Jordan Wheeler stated that, “The City considers the effective date of their IRS exemption to be August 12, 2020 based on the letter from the IRS dated January 22, 2021 that notes the effective date of the exemption to be August 12, 2020. However, the City’s legal counsel has cautioned that the language … is somewhat ambiguous on which date is to be used, and that may have to be resolved by the courts in the future.”

The Sisters City Council has set a hearing on the matter for September 5, at 5 p.m. See story, page 1.

Portraits O F SISTERS

He’s tall, amiable — and slow to proclaim his achievements — but make no mistake, Ken Ruettgers continues to live a purpose-driven life. The California native launched into the world of pro football when he was drafted to the Green Bay Packers in 1985. As an offensive lineman, Ken says that was the “entrance to so many great opportunities.” The weekly challenge inspired him. The camaraderie was invigorating. But after 12 years the injuries piled up and the NFL faded into his rearview mirror. He wrote and published the book, “The Home Field Advantage: A Dad’s Guide to the Power of Role Modeling.” It was published by Multnomah Publishers, formerly based here in Sisters, where Ken moved 25 years ago with his wife and three kids. He’s since filled a number of roles: author relations and editorial director at Multnomah Publishing, podcast host, founder of gamesover.org (a hub for NFL athletes transitioning to “normal” life), and educator at Central Oregon Community College. He also coached football and track at Sisters High School for 15 years. In 2022, he retired from full-time teaching but continues to teach sociology part-time at COCC. In addition to counseling a dozen former NFL players transitioning to life off the field, a challenge he knows well, Ken pursues what matters most to him: family, learning, and new challenges. “Interacting with people, and helping them, that engages my light bulb.” In short, for Ken, meaningful = people.

EXPLOREGON: Middle school program to launch soon

Continued from page 3

teaching kids to better understand and appreciate the natural world through dynamic ways, including art, nature activities, outdoor exploration, science, and more.

“We’ve been running variations of the program in other Central Oregon communities and we’re thrilled to bring it to Sisters,” he said. “It’s intended to be a great complement to the middle school’s well-known focus on environmental education, giving more youth access to such programs and building more engagement around the outdoors.”

Project Good Earth runs Fridays, September 15

through October 20. (No meeting October 13.) It is open to 12 youth, so DiRosa is encouraging families in Sisters Country to sign up their middle schoolers as soon as possible. Registration and more information can be found at https://campfireco. org/exploregon/. Camp Fire Central Oregon offers financial assistance; details available here: http://campfireco. org/financial-assistance/.

We’ve been running variations of the program in other Central Oregon communities and we’re thrilled to bring it to Sisters.

— James DiRosa

MONTH’S “POR TR AITS OF SISTERS” PRE SENTED B Y:

PHOTO AND STORY BY CODY RHEAULT

NUGGET FLASHBACK – 20 YEARS AGO

TEACHERS: Housing affordability developing into crisis

Continued from page 1

on the opportunity to build wealth through home equity or leaving education in search of more lucrative careers.”

Sisters School District Superintendent Curt Scholl told The Nugget that the potential problem his district is facing is the large number of veteran teachers nearing retirement in the next few years. And he sees home prices in Sisters as a recruiting issue.

According to the National Educators Association, the average public school teacher salary in the U.S. is $66,745.

In general terms, an affordable mortgage is usually twice as much as a person’s gross income. As the nearby chart shows, not only teachers, but anybody buying a home in Sisters for the median price of $840,000 would need household income of $194,375 — four times the starting salary of a first-grade teacher in Sisters.

If the new teacher had a spouse and the spouse earned $75,000 they would still be priced out of most Sisters homes even with a $168,000 down payment, an amount few younger households have in savings and investments.

Teachers’ salaries aren’t keeping up with inflation and the rising cost of homeownership. In 2021-2022, the average U.S. public school teacher salary increased by two percent from the prior year; adjusted for inflation, however, teachers are making $3,644 less than a decade ago.

With the typical homebuyer’s monthly mortgage payment up almost 20 percent from a year ago and a shortage of homes for sale, teachers struggle to find affordable housing, says Investopedia in studying the numbers.

According to a 2021 report by the Oregon Education Association, districts statewide started the 2021-22 school year with significant vacancies. Some were scrambling to fill upwards of 180 unfilled positions. This, multiplied across the state’s 197 districts, meant Oregon schools were short thousands of educators, reflecting national trends.

Nationally there are plenty of teachers. They’re just not in the places where needed, due in the largest part to affordability, as here in Sisters where the median home price soared to new highs in July.

“It’s important to think of school staffing challenges not as one national shortage, but as innumerable, hyper-local shortages. Because nationally, we have more teachers on a numeric basis than we did before the pandemic, and we have fewer students due to enrollment drops,” says Chad

Aldeman, a researcher who studies teacher shortages.

Pilot program to the rescue?

Rooted Homes in Bend is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit providing environmentally sustainable and permanently affordable homeownership opportunities for those who contribute to the fabric of the Central Oregon economy and community. They have built or announced plans to build around 100 affordable single-family homes in Central Oregon.

Their most ambitious undertaking was just previewed in Redmond, 23 units.

They are what is known as a community land trust with public and private funding.

Rooted has identified teachers as one group deserving of subsidized housing.

We asked Jackie Keogh, Rooted’s executive director, how teachers can have

preference without violating federal fair housing laws, “We have consulted with civil rights attorneys and are satisfied that we meet the test. Just as veterans received preferential housing assistance, teachers can be treated much the same,” she said. Rooted has been meeting with the City, County, School District, and Sisters Woodlands, all of whom have been receptive to Rooted bringing its expertise to bear in Sisters. While there are details that would have to be worked out, Sisters Woodlands, a 300-plus mixed-use community under construction in Sisters, hopes to dedicate two homes in its first phase to the concept. Additional homes in the Woodlands could be added as new phases roll out, its spokesman Kevin Eckert told The Nugget . He and Keogh

anticipate the first two homes could be ready for the start of the 2024 school year if all the pieces and players come together.

Oregon lawmakers just passed Senate Bill 279 making it easier and less costprohibitive for teachers from other states to work in Oregon. Senate Bill 283 from the same session is an omnibus bill aiming to tackle retention,

pay, and several aspects of educator recruitment and hiring practices.

Lawmakers said these bills should address staff and substitute shortages, burnout, and barriers to entering public education professions. They add weight to the 2022 session’s House Bill 4030 that provided $78 million in grants to support personnel in K-12 schools across the state.

Continued from page 17

To the Editor:

Medicare Advantage

I am very happy with my Medicare Advantage Plan. I don’t need St. Charles telling me it is not the right plan for me and trying to convince me that they are really doing me a favor by not accepting Advantage plans. I am supposed to believe that? For this great “opportunity” we will be paying $2,000 more a year in premiums. To those people who don’t like their plan, you are free to change. Don’t drag me into it.

Switching to a “non” Advantage plan can have negative consequences since some providers only want patients with Advantage plans. Switching plans involves a lot of paperwork, which is not easy for our elderly folks in assisted and nursing care.

Not-for-profit hospitals receive a federal tax exemption for providing care to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. So, St. Charles will take the tax exemption but not our insurance; that stinks. I think they should be required to take all Medicare insurance plans if they take the exemption. I would like the law to be changed.

I am angry. If you are angry, please contact Wyden, Merkley, Chavez-DeRemer, Senator Findley, and the governor. Tell all of them how this change will hurt you. To our county commissioners – you might want to think twice about going along with a plan that discourages us from living here. We provide significant tax dollars to the school system without the associated costs of having students in the system.

Since St. Charles takes Federal funds, I think it might be possible for the Oregon Secretary of State to audit St. Charles. I would like to see a performance audit of St. Charles’ insurance claims processing system.

Nancy Kelm

Sisters Country birds

By Douglas Beall Correspondent

The Red Crossbill [Loxia curvirosta] is an erratic and nomadic bird that will flock to the tops of either deciduous or coniferous trees for a wealth of seeds. A highly variably colored species, the female is a yellowish golden, with the male exhibiting various shades of red.

Crossbills have a unique bill where the tips of the bill overlap to enable them to open conifer cones and seeds. With this skill, in seasons of plentiful cone production they may breed year round.

Red Crossbills are usually found in small flocks from six to 30 birds. They occasionally feed on aphids in deciduous trees, and some wild berries are also in their diet. The bills can cross in either direction, which in turn dictates which direction they feed on the seed cones.

With at least 10 different subspecies, each group uses slightly different flight calls to help identify and separate the different types. Monogamous pairs form within flocks, and the female will build the nest high on a horizontal

branch within a conifer tree. A cup of grass, bark strips, and twigs begins the structure of the nest, which is then lined with feathers, lichens, and hair. A typical nest contains three whitish, reddish-streaked eggs, which are incubated for 12-16 days. The female and brood are fed by the male Red Crossbill for five days, and then the female joins the male in the feeding of the hatchlings for 18-22 days at which time the young fledge.

The young birds’ bills are not crossed at birth but cross as they grow, and by 45 days they can begin to extract the seeds from cones. Crossbills can be seen on rocks gleaning minerals for healthy bills and bones.

A group of Crossbills is called a “warp” or a “crookedness.”

Red Crossbill.

PHOTO BY DOUGLAS BEALL

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.

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

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

104 Vacation Rentals

Downtown Vacation Rentals Popular 1 and 2 Bedroom SistersVacationRentals.net

Great pricing. 503-730-0150

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

www.SistersVacation.com

107 Rentals Wanted

Looking for a room/loft to rent. Larger property preferred. Call Tim at 541-306-7340 or lynchpinstim@gmail.com.

201 For Sale

• Manual canvas awning 14' wide excellent condition, $350

• Mohawk Home cream/green rug 8' by 10', $35

• Plywood interior doors x4 2'6" by 6'8" by 1 3/8", $10 each

• Child's Airacuda bike with 15" wheels, free.

• Britax used child car seat, free.

• Graco used child car seat, free.

• Pair of plywood closet doors

22 1/2" by 6'9" by 1 1/2", $10. email maria_pickles@icloud.com

T H E N U G G E T

N E W S P A P E R 5 4 1 - 5 4 9 - 9 9 4 1 www.NuggetNews.com

202 Firewood SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS

DAVE ELPI – FIREWOOD

• SINCE 1976 • Doug Fir – Lodgepole –Hardwood – Juniper – Fir

Compost by the yard

DRIVE-IN WOOD SALES

– 18155 Hwy. 126 East –SistersForestProducts.com

Order Online! 541-410-4509

LODGEPOLE PINE

Very Seasoned Firewood Logs

204 Arts & Antiques

302 Recreational Vehicles

EXCELLENT CONDITION

Class B 2021 RoadTrek Zion. $109,900. $104,000. One owner, used only one season, under 15,000 miles. Modern, fully contained interior; exterior is Sandstone Pearl. Extras incl. Sumo Springs, StowAway rear locking compartment, Fiama bike rack. Call 402-496-9579.

401 Horses

Delivery avail. • Call for quote 541-306-8675

203 Recreation Equipment

NEW STATIONARY BIKE

$450 OBO • 541-977-3901

1930 antique RCA tube radio in great shape, $200. 541-419-2502

205 Garage & Estate Sales

Yard sale. 30-year collection of miscellaneous treasures.

Sept. 2–Sept. 4. Sat & Sun 9-4. Mon 9-2. 70095 Cayuse Drive. Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions!

Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths?

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

ALFALFA TRITICALE

ORCHARD GRASS HAY New crop. No rain. Barn stored. 3-tie bales. $250-$390/ton. Hwy. 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895

403 Pets

GERMAN WIREHAIRED POINTER PUPPIES. Excellent bloodlines, parents strong upland and waterfowl dogs. Ready end of September. Call 541-408-6256

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

500 Services

GEORGE’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

Eddyline Equinox 15' Kayak Red • $1,600 • 541-610-6695

Open

a.m. – 5 p.m.

253 E. Hood Ave., Sisters.

301 Vehicles

2003 F250 SUPER DUTY, 4WD, set of wheels toolbox. Runs $4,900. Call 503-435-8679. We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397

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

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

We’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com 541-306-7551 • Julie automatic. and tires and good. 199K

for puzzle on page 22

Mad River Canoe 15’ Expedition. $375. 541-420-6091.

T H E N U G G E T

N E W S P A P E R Your Local News Source! www.nuggetnews.com Breaking News / Road Reports Weather / Letters / Blog

Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com

CUSTOM CAR GARAGES

HEATED, INSULATED 541-419-2502

FOUND SOMETHING

VALUABLE?

Advertise in The Nugget's Lost & Found classifieds. FREE for 2 weeks!

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

Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com

541-549-2345

All Landscaping Services

Mowing, Thatching, Hauling and SNOW REMOVAL

Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740

701 Domestic Services

House Cleaning Sisters & Black Butte

Free Consult 503-750-3033

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

801 Classes & Training

PAINT 'N SIP PARTIES

In my studio or your home! 541-388-8337 or sign up at www.OffTheWalzStudioArt.com

A D V E R T I S E H E R E ! Do you offer lessons or workshops for ... YOGA?

DRAWING? VIOLIN? Or... ?

Let our readers know with an affordable classified ad! $2 per line the first week, $1.50 per line for repeats. And your ad goes online at no extra charge!

Call before noon on Mondays to place, 541-549-9941

802 Help Wanted

CITY OF SISTERS

— Lead Wastewater Collection and Treatment Operator

Full-time, benefits, 40 hrs./week (shifts may vary and/or include weekend work). Compensation for full-time is $5,025 to $7,566 per month DOE. Duties will include all aspects of the Public Works Department; water, wastewater, stormwater, streets, vehicle/building maintenance, parks. Knowledge and ability to operate backhoe, dump truck, snow plow, street sweeper, and various other public works related equipment is preferred.

Special requirements/licenses: minimum of an Oregon CDL Class B, possession of current State of Oregon Class II

Wastewater Collection and Class I Wastewater Treatment Operator certifications, Flagger/Work Zone Traffic control card and CPR/First Aid card. Possession of or required to obtain within three months of appointment.

– Utility Technician I –Full-time, benefits, 40 hours per week (shifts may vary and/or include weekend work).

Compensation for full-time is from $3,929 to $5,905 per month DOE. Duties will include all aspects of the Public Works Department; water, wastewater, stormwater, streets, parks, vehicle/building maintenance, Knowledge and ability to operate backhoe, dump truck, snow plow, street sweeper and various other public works related equipment is

preferred. Possession of or required to obtain within three months of appointment.

City of Sisters is a drug and alcohol free workplace and an equal opportunity employer.

To be considered, a completed City of Sisters application and résumé must be submitted to Human Resources no later than 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. An application and detailed job description are available at City of Sisters, 520 E. Cascade Ave., 541-549-6022; or via the City’s web page at www.ci.sisters.or.us.

999 Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the City of Sisters Planning Commission will conduct an in-person public hearing at Sisters City Hall, 520 E. Cascade Avenue, Sisters, on September 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. regarding the applications 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 address PO Box 39, Sisters, OR 97759) or emailed to eshoup@ci.sisters.or.us.

found on https:// www.ci.sisters.or.us/meetings.

PUBLIC HEARING:

September 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

FILE #: TA 23-01

APPLICANT: City of Sisters

REQUEST: Text amendments to several sections of Sisters Development Code (SDC). The proposed amendments are intended as “housekeeping” changes to correct errors and provide clarification to existing code provisions that are neither intentionally substantive nor a change to regulation or policy.

APPLICABLE CRITERIA:

We are Hiring!

Join our summer camp culture at Lake Creek Lodge. We're recruiting for: Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Front of House: Barista, Concierge. We are proud to offer flexible schedules, excellent compensation, and opportunities for onsite housing. www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW Forest Service Rd.  #1419, Camp Sherman NEED A CHANGE?

Use The Nugget's Help Wanted column to find a new job! NEED ASSISTANCE?

Use The Nugget's Help Wanted column to find the help you need! Call 541-549-9941

OUR FREELANCERS LOVE DOING “WRITE”

Comments should be directed toward the criteria that apply to this request and must reference the file number. For additional information, please contact Emelia Shoup, Associate Planner at 541-323-5216 or eshoup@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 Planning Commission meeting is accessible to the public either in person or via Zoom online meeting. Meeting information, including the Zoom link, can be

SDC Chapter 1.2 – General Administration; Chapter 1.3 –Definitions; Chapter 2.4 –Downtown Commercial District; Chapter 2.5 – Highway Commercial District; Chapter 2.7 – Public Facility & Institutional District; Chapter 2.11 – Airport Overlay District; Chapter 2.14 –North Sisters Business Park District; Chapter 2.15 – Special Provisions; Chapter 3.1 – Access and Circulation; Chapter 3.2 –Landscaping and Screening; Chapter 3.4 – Signs; Chapter 4.1 – Types of Applications and Review Procedures; Chapter 4.5 – Master Planned Developments; Chapter 4.6 – Cottage Developments; Chapter 4.9 –Declaratory Ruling; Chapter 5.2 – Non-Conforming Uses and Structures; Chapter 4.7 – Land Use District Map and Text Amendments; Oregon Statewide Land Use Goals; and City of Sisters Urban Area Comprehensive Plan.

Bill Bartlett has the curiosity everything to from what brought people her do;

passion is finding things out — and sharing what he learns