Bombing down the slopes…
Tallis Grummer in the Giant Slalom as the Outlaws dominated the slopes in Alpine action at Hoodoo last week. Seestory,page4.
More drought, less snowfall in report
By Alex Baumghardt Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregonians born today are likely to experience a future of more drought, more rain, and less snow under warming average global temperatures due to humancaused climate change.
That’s one conclusion in the 314-page Seventh Oregon Climate Assessment, which
was published Wednesday and authored by more than 65 scientists, experts, and engineers, including from Oregon State University, the Oregon Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Two engineers from Portland General Electric and Principle Power, a floating offshore wind
See REPORT on page 17
High Desert Heroines: Tender tragedies
By Maret Pajutee Correspondent
In the maze of juniper, sage, and tombstones at Camp Polk Cemetery there is a grove of silent children.
Little ones who left their families much too soon with familiar names from the earliest days of Sisters, like Allingham and South. Among the earliest burials
are two small graves, nestled under the trees with the name of Claypool, some of the first pioneers to search for a new life east of the Cascades.
The Claypools were one of the many pioneer families who arrived in the Willamette Valley of
See TRAGEDIES on page 14
Citizens can weigh in on City goals
The City of Sisters City Council is inviting members of the public to participate in an upcoming Open House to provide input and feedback on the Council’s proposed goals for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which will begin on July 1.
This is an opportunity for residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to have their voices heard as the City Council shapes its priorities for the coming year.
City Council considers goals from the following categories: Environmental Sustainability; Essential Infrastructure; Economic Development; Good
See CITY on page 20
Sisters earns Dark Skies designation
By Sue Stafford Correspondent
Sisters was certified as an International DarkSky Community this month by DarkSky International, making the city the second community in Oregon to be so designated (Antelope announced their designation several weeks ago). Sisters is the sixth International DarkSky Place in Oregon, joining such places as the Oregon Outback to the east and Oregon Caves National Monument.
The designation is the culmination of many years of dark sky advocacy by the Sisters community to help bring about awareness of the importance of preserving our nighttime skies for current and future generations to experience its wonder and to protect the wildlife that depend on darkness. It is also an opportunity to further that education and to retrofit poor lighting, ensure responsible lighting going forward, and market the related tourism benefits the designation brings to a largely touristdependent community.
Bill Kowalik, PhD, chairperson of DarkSky Oregon, issued the following statement:
The effort to protect the night skies over Sisters began over 20 years ago, started by members of the Sisters Astronomy Club and the students in the astronomy program at Sisters High School, led by science teacher Rima Givot. Efforts included: • Education through city
See DARK SKIES on page 9
“The City of Sisters has now set a community standard for responsible outdoor lighting in Oregon. It’s a standard that benefits residents, visitors, and the surrounding wild environment. This international certification brings recognition to Sisters, known to visitors for culture and arts, and now globally, for environmental protection of dark skies, too.”
Comet Atlas over North Sister. Preserving such spectacular sights is the goal of Dark Skies advocates.
PHOTO BY BRIAN JENNINGS
PHOTO BY JACK TURPEN
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.
From the superintendant
To the Editor,
The recent school board meeting brought moments of reflection, gratitude, and optimism as the district celebrated its accomplishments and looked ahead to the future. The board began by honoring David Thorsett for his dedicated years of service as a school board member. In recognition of his impactful contributions, Thorsett was presented with a commemorative plaque, and board members expressed their heartfelt appreciation for his leadership. The meeting also welcomed Erik Benton as the newest board member through an official induction ceremony. Benton was warmly greeted by the board, symbolizing a
new chapter of leadership and collaboration for the district.
Several key updates underscored the district’s progress. Pauly Rogers and Co. presented the audit results, which were positive aside from one actuarial detail. Importantly, there were no compliance issues or questioned costs. Highlights from various school initiatives included the success of elementary focus groups in advancing social-emotional learning, literacy pilot programs, and fostering stronger student-parent connections. At the high school level, the Youth Truth Survey revealed valuable insights, which will guide future goals. Additionally, the renewal of the
See LETTERS on page 11
Sisters Weather Forecast
The Nugget Newspaper, LLC
Website: www.nuggetnews.com
442 E. Main Ave., P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759 Tel: 541-549-9941 | Email: editor@nuggetnews.com
Postmaster: Send address changes to The Nugget Newspaper, P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759. Third Class Postage Paid at Sisters, Oregon.
Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius
Production Manager: Leith Easterling
Creative Director: Jess Draper
Community Marketing Partner: Vicki Curlett
Classifieds & Circulation: Lisa May
Proofreader: Kema Clark
Co-owner: J. Louis Mullen
The Nugget is available to pick up free at The Nugget office and at businesses throughout Sisters and Tumalo; mail subscriptions are available in the 97759, 97756, 97730, and 97703 zip codes for $55/year; subscriptions outside these zip codes: $70/year, $45/six months (or less).
Playing with explosives
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
Every other Wednesday, I get together with a small group of men in what I guess you’d call a book club. We grapple with tough moral questions, and matters of purpose and meaning, conflict and division. Our current selection is Patrick Radden Keefe’s “Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland.” There is a current dramatic adaptation in the FX/Hulu limited series “Say Nothing.”
The book pivots on the December 1972 abduction of Jean McConville, a widowed mother of 10 children, from her flat in Belfast. McConville was a Protestant who had married a Catholic, and was suspected of being an informant for the British Army. The Irish Republican Army had a long history of killing “touts.” Everyone knew that the IRA had taken McConville, and what her terrible fate must be, but no one said anything about it for decades. In 1999, as part of the peace accords that ended the three-decade low-intensity war in Northern Ireland known as The Troubles, the IRA provided information on the location of her body. Authorities searched, but did not find her. In 2003, the grave was exposed by a storm that washed away an embankment, and her body was found by passers-by. Her children knew it was her because a remnant of her dress showed a blue safety pin, which she always wore to pin up her children’s diapers or torn clothes.
Prepping for preschool…
Jim
The TV series hones in on the story of Dolours Price and her sister Marian, hardcore, bitter-ender Provisional IRA operators who Keefe alleges were involved in the disappearance and murder of McConville.
It’s a dark and harrowing tale of politically motivated violence that developed its own momentum, becoming a blood feud that consumed lives of victims and perpetrators alike. It’s also a cautionary tale of what can happen when ordinary people fueled by grievance and fear fall into an intense tribalism, where any act can be justified in the name of freedom or self-defense.
As I write this, the United States is marking the inauguration of its 47th president, Donald J. Trump. Half of the electorate is exulting at a political comeback virtually unprecedented in American history, while the
other half is in a slough of despond. Exultation and disappointment are the usual fallout of normal electoral politics — but we all know that American politics hasn’t been “normal” since 2016. The intensity of feeling is potentially combustible.
Partisans of “red” or “blue” orientation are increasingly alienated from one another to a degree where they can’t — and actually don’t want to — find common ground. We’re a long, long way from the kind of sectarian conflict that bloodied Northern Ireland for 30 years, but when we start thinking of political adversaries as political — and, worse, cultural — enemies, we’re treading into dangerous territory. When we stop trusting the institutions that underpin a free republic — when the institutions act in ways that make us suspect that someone has rigged the game — that republic is in danger.
It may seem alarmist to call out the potential for violence — but we’ve already seen political violence rear its ugly head. The Capitol riots of January 6, 2021, the assassination attempt on Donald Trump last summer — these are serious acts that could have been far worse than they turned out. In a nation this divided and angry, any serious violent event could quickly spiral into truly dangerous civil unrest. With so many of our social guardrails down or in serious disrepair, the potential is dire.
Of course, partisans of one tribe or the other will condemn the actions of the other while defending their own. That’s how this works. All of the paramilitary thugs in Northern Ireland justified their actions, no matter how heinous, as self-defense.
The value of exploring history — especially “near” history — is not in finding one-to-one correspondences where history repeats itself. It is in recognizing that, under certain circumstances, ordinary people much like us are capable of extraordinary things. Sometimes that’s extraordinary fortitude, resilience, and heroism. Sometimes that’s extraordinary cruelty and violence. For the past decade and more, our political culture has been playing around with explosives. At some point, something is really going to blow up. What happens then? Can’t say. But history offers some clues, and the picture ain’t pretty. We do not want to go there.
Sisters Kiwanis dug in to prepare the site of a preschool playground at the new facility of Sisters Park & Recreation District (formerly Sisters Elementary School). Left to right: Mike Vermillion, Gary Cundiff, Jim Cunningham, Jeff Taylor, David Hiller. Workers not pictured:
Barnett and May Fan.
PHOTO BY JIM BARNETT
Scholarship widens horizons
By
There’s a wide range of people who would claim that travel is the best thing that’s ever happened to them. Visiting new countries, continents, and cultures can be a life-changing experience.
When you’re young it can seem like an unattainable hope reserved for future years. The Gilman Scholarship Program is an opportunity that allows international travel for a wide range of students. Funded by the U.S Department of State, the
BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS
Al -Anon
Mon., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 541- 610-73 83
Alcoholics Anonymous
program’s goal is to provide specific support to students with limited financial resources to study abroad. They state that, “Students must be receiving the Federal Pell Grant or provide proof that they will be during their term of study abroad program or internship.” Other eligibility criteria include being an undergraduate, a U.S citizen, and in the process of applying to or participating in a credit-bearing study abroad program.
Sarah Kissinger is a 2021 Sisters High School graduate and recently returned to share her own
experience receiving the Gilman Scholarship with upperclassmen in SHS AP Government class taught by Gail Greaney.
“I’d always wanted to study abroad but didn’t really have a lot of hope until I learned about and applied for this scholarship opportunity,” said Kissinger. Kissinger was admitted into the program at 20 years old in 2024, and became a student at the University of Otago’s study abroad program in New Zealand.
Other applicants that year were able to travel to places
Shelter food pantry makes changes
By
To better assist those in Sisters Country struggling with food insecurity, the food pantry, previously run by Wellhouse Church and since January 1 operated by Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS), will change its schedule from Thursdays to Mondays starting Monday, February 3.
Both the pantry and the Kiwanis Food Bank operated on the same day for years. By switching to Monday, volunteers hope to offer needy users more nutrition balance, and convenience in scheduling food pick-up.
Kiwanis distributes primarily canned and staple items, food products mostly packaged, including meat and dairy, but no produce. The pantry offers a variety of fresh foods as well as kitchen staples. Together they help provide a well-rounded diet for a hundred or more area individuals and families, many homeless.
The hours of the pantry at 222 N. Trinity Way, will change from a 3 p.m. start to a 9 a.m. opening, running until 1 p.m.
Cold Weather Shelter
Rebranding
Along with the change in
SFF Presents invests thousands in education
Each summer and fall, SFF Presents (SFFP) brings world-class music to the stage in the Big Ponderoo Music + Art Festival in June and Sisters Folk Festival at the end of September. Throughout the year, they host concerts featuring touring artists. Those events bring thousands of people to Sisters and provide an economic boost to the community.
Equally important is the long-term effort to support music and arts education in Sisters.
Earlier this month, SFFP
SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR
Council on Aging of Central Oregon Senior Lunch In -person communit y dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grab -and -go lunch Tues Wed. Thurs. 12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters Communit y Church 541- 48 0-18 43
Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4t h Saturday, 10 a.m., meet ing by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158
Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church 541- 549- 6157
Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,G entlemen’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Thursday, noon, Sober Sisters Women’s meet ing, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
Thursday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transf iguration • Fr iday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 541- 54 8- 04 40 Saturday, 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transf iguration
Central Oregon Fly Tyer s Guild
For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelef ly@msn.c om
Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets 4th Thur sday 6 p.m. at Blazin Saddles Bike S hop sistersrep@c ot amtb.c om
Ci tizens4Communit y Communit y Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of ever y mont h, 10 to 11:3 0 a.m. Visit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for location
East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September-June), Stitchin’ Post All are welc ome. 541- 549- 60 61
Go Fi sh Fishing Group 3rd Monday 7 p.m., Sisters Communit y Church 541-771-2211
Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Sisters Communit y Church Materials provided 541- 40 8- 8505
Hero Quilters of Sisters Thursday 1 to 4 p.m. 541- 668 -1755
Living Well With D ementia Sister s Care Partner suppor t group. 2nd & 4th Weds ., 1-2:30 p.m. The Lodge in Sisters. 541- 647- 00 52
Milita ry Parent s of Sister s Meetings are held quar terly; please call for details. 541- 38 8- 9013
Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:3 0 a.m., Takoda’s Rest aurant. 541- 549- 64 69
Sisters Area Woodworker s First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 541-231-18 97
Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:3 0 p.m. at Sisters Communit y Church Email sister sbridge2021@gmail.com.
Sisters Caregi ver Support Group
3rd Wednesday., 10:3 0 a.m., Sisters Episcopal Church. 503- 616- 8712
Sisters Cribbage Club Meets 11 a.m. ever y Wed. at SPRD 50 9- 947- 5744
Sisters Garden Club For mont hly meetings visit: SistersGardenClu b.com.
Sisters Habitat for Humani ty Board of Director s 4t h Tuesday, 4:30 p.m.
Location information: 541- 549-1193
Sisters Kiwani s 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:3 0 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Lodge in Sisters. 541- 632- 3663
Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sister s Elementary School Commons. 917-219- 8298
Sisters Red Ha ts 1st Fr iday. For location information, please call: 541- 84 8-1970
Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon, Aspen Lakes. 541-76 0- 5645
Sisters Veterans no -host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant. All veterans welc ome, 541-241- 6563
Sisters Trails Alliance Board Meetings take plac e ever y other month, 5 p.m. In -person or zoom. Cont act: info@sisterstrails.org
Three Sister s Irrigation District
Board of Director s Meets 1st Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSID Of fice 541- 903- 4050
Three Sister s Lions Club 2nd Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 541- 419-1279
VF W Post 8138 and American Legion Po st 86 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 541-241- 6563
SCHOOLS
Black Bu tt e School
Board of Director s 2nd Tuesday, 3:45 p.m., Black Butte School. 541- 59 5- 6203
Presents, announced its investment of more than $60,000 in music and arts programming for Sisters public schools during the past year.
This funding has provided vital support for a wide range of initiatives, including:
• Before and after school programs: The Outlaw Strings Club and After School Creativity Club expanded access to enriching activities beyond the regular school day for SMS
Sisters School District Board of Directors One Wednesday mont hly, Sisters School District Administration Building. See schedule online at www ssd6.org 541- 549- 8521 x5 002. CITY & PARKS
Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall 541- 549- 6022
Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Director s 2nd & 4t h Tues 4 p.m., Coff ield Center 541- 549-20 91
Sisters Planning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall 541- 549- 6022
FIRE & POLICE
Black Bu tt e Ranch Po lice Dept Board of Director s Meets mont hly. 541- 59 5-2191 for time & date
Black Bu tt e Ranch RFPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m. BB R Fire Station. 541- 59 5-2288
Cloverdale RFPD Board of Director s 3rd Wed., 5:30 p.m., 6743 3 Cloverdale Rd. 541- 54 8- 4815 cloverdalefire.c om
Sister s- Camp Sherman RFPD Board of Director s 3rd Tuesday, 5 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 541- 549- 0771
PHOTO PROVIDED
Sarah Kissinger (center) traveled to New Zealand on a Gilman Scholarship.
See FOOD PANTRY on page 21
See
Olivia Nieto Correspondent
Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Ski teams dominate the slopes in Hoodoo races
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Sisters High School Alpine ski team was a squad to be reckoned with in their first Emerald Ski League race of the season. They put on a show of their exceptional depth and talent in the Wednesday, January 15, Giant Slalom event at Hoodoo Ski Area. Fifteen high schools were represented in the league, drawing racers from Central Oregon and the Willamette Valley.
Sisters girls team was exceptional; seven racers finished in the top 10. Ella Eby claimed the top spot with a decisive combined time of 1:20.64, posting the fastest times in both runs. Ava Riehle took second place with a combined time of 1:22.96 and Tallis Grummer rounded out the all-Sisters podium with a time of 1:25.80.
The Sisters girls continued their dominant showing throughout the field. Mary Roberts took fifth place (1:27.39), Pia Grummer finished seventh (1:29.43), and Payten Adelt and Brooke Duey posted times of 1:31.08 and 1:31.57 respectively, which secured them the eighth and ninth places overall.
Lauren Sitz finished 11th (1:33.09) and Kiara Martin 13th (1:34.57). Grace Hudson (1:46.40) and Lily Holtsberg (2:24.46) finished both their runs, and Khloe Kohl and Georgia West each put down a single run. In the provisional division, composed of seventh and eighth graders, Sydney Welbourn represented Sisters with a winning time of 1:43.22.
The Lady Outlaws posted a decisive win overall in the team competition, posting a combined time of 4:09.40. South Eugene finished second (4:33.94) and Marist rounded out the team podium in third with a combined
time of 4:41.18.
Coach Natalie Grummer said, “Sisters’ victory margin of more than 24 seconds over South Eugene highlighted their exceptional skiing strength and consistency.”
On the boys side, Styopa Myagkov put down an impressive performance with consistent fast times in both runs (38.64 and 36.68) to claim first place. Joe Barnes (Philomath) took second and Jackson Gundry of Marist took third.
“Styopa’s victory was particularly impressive in how he built his lead,” said Grummer. “In the first run, he edged out Barnes by just 0.03 seconds, but in the second run he significantly extended his lead by skiing the fastest run of the day at 36.86, putting 1.25 seconds between himself and Barnes.”
The Outlaws continued to show their depth, with Spencer Tisdale talking sixth (1.24.79), Emerson Backus ninth (1:25. 57), Cooper Merrill 10th (1:26.14), and Ben Hayner 12th (1:27. 55).
Spencer Davis finished 14th (1:28.90), Jasper Jensen 16th (1:30.92), Casey Bennet 20th (1:35.84), and Felix Montanez 21st (1:36.48).
Jack Turpen, Mac Maloney, Michael Clayton, and Carter Anderson also had finishing runs for the
Outlaws. John Berg and River Dalton each put down a single solid run, and in the provisional category, Cormac Lichvarcik took first with a time of 1:41.43.
The boys’ teams also took the top spot on the podium, with their top three racers combining for a total time of 4:05.86. South Eugene took second and Marist took third.
Grummer said, “Today’s results reflect both the dedication of our veteran racers and the promising talent of
our newer athletes. To see such strong performances across our entire team sets a positive tone for the season ahead. We have an impressive group of first-year racers, and our depth this season is truly remarkable. Watching the new athletes dive into the sport with such determination and heart has been inspiring. They’re improving with every practice, embracing challenges, and gaining confidence as we head into the racing season. It’s an exciting time for our program, and I’m incredibly proud of the effort and growth I’ve seen from everyone on the team.”
The Outlaws will prepare for their next week’s slalom race at Hoodoo on Wednesday, January 22.
Ella Eby skis for a strong Outlaws squad.
PHOTO BY JACK TURPEN
Reflections on Sisters
By Charlotte Seymour Columnist
Sisters is truly one of a kind. Underneath the Western decor, pine trees, vibrant mountains, and the neighborly environment, lies a home. As a 19-year-old who has lived in Sisters all 19 years of my life, it took me going to college to truly appreciate the town.
I have seen the good and the bad parts of Sisters. My little eyes watched the Dairy Queen, Dollar General, and the housing developments get built. In fourth grade my art teacher laid a giant wooden fish in front of me and told me to paint it however I pleased. I painted it with my best friend Juhree, I watched it go up on the fence and nine years later, every time I drive into town I see my fish hanging with pride.
I remember when the tree fell on the Ski Inn; then it got covered in denim. I remember when there was finally a stop light in Sisters while they built the first roundabout, but of course, it only lasted about two weeks. I remember when the Elementary school C wing flooded, when someone crashed into Bi-Mart, and even when there was a bear in a tree at Village Green.
Each of these memories have shaped me into the person I am today. The little town of Sisters is a type of special that words cannot begin to describe. The only description that fulfills its honor is a feeling within the heart. I feel so indescribably lucky to have grown up in a town so delightful.
Sure, Sisters has its downsides, especially during the early teenage years because you can’t drive yet. Sisters’ size limits the ability to do a lot of activities but every kid makes do with what we have here in town.
My friends and I would hang out at the splash pad, ride bikes until the sun came up, spend all our allowance at Garden of Eden, get a pizza slice from Martolli’s, and get samples from the Sisters Olive and Nut store. Sisters can be boring at times, but that’s OK because its size makes it Sisters: it’s like everyone is your literal sister.
I am very fortunate because I fell into a great friend group from the beginning. But it is not that way for many people, which makes school a lot more challenging - as the students in Sisters can easily become very cliquey. But from the standpoint of someone who had the best possible experience growing up in Sisters,
I was looking forward to college and that newfound freedom, but it was hard to leave the only place I have ever called home. I was prepared for college, but I was not quite ready.
I began the application process in September and applied for early admission to every school. I stayed on top of it the best that I could and I felt confident with each essay I wrote. I was proud of my applications and felt content with the results from each school. I committed to a school in late March and was confident in my decision. I was happy and relieved to have the process completed.
When August came along, I was prepared for my upcoming year at Colorado State University. I purchased all the dorm necessities on Prime Day and packed my stuff up days in advance. I was physically prepared.
Mentally, on the other hand, I don’t think my heart ever truly left Sisters, I wasn’t quite ready to move away. Don’t get me wrong, I was excited about college and everything that came with it. I was looking forward to making new friends, focusing on a career, living in a new area, and starting a new life. As the semester carried along I did all the college things. I truly did make the most of it — but there was always a piece of my heart missing, perhaps it is still in my driveway from the night I said goodbye to all my friends.
I was one of the first to go, so I said goodbye to most everyone at once. It was an August evening, four other girls and I ate dinner at Olive Garden in Bend (our favorite dinner spot). We knew this was goodbye but we tried to spend the night surrounded by happiness and cherish the amazing summer we had just shared. We blasted music on the drive home from Bend, and screamed our hearts out. My friend Brooke was the one in charge of the music and as we drove into Sisters she panicked because she knew she needed to play one more perfect song before we arrived at my house. I looked out the window holding back tears as the song “Our Last Summer” from the Mamma Mia soundtrack came on. It was perfectly sad because it really was “our last summer,” and it had just ended. We drove the long way to my house that night.
After that, it never really got easier. Throughout the semester I stayed in touch with my friends but the fear of our friendships falling away always lingered. It is
tough to transition from living two minutes away from your best friends to living 17 hours away. Towards the end of the semester, I found myself counting down the days until break because I was so excited to come home and see my friends.
This honestly made college pretty difficult. I tried so hard to soak up every single moment and find love in all of the great people I met, but I always ended up comparing them to my friends from home and never felt fully satisfied. Which is completely unfair, but I seriously couldn’t help myself. Over the summer I was so excited to move out of state and experience change, which I did enjoy, but looking back at it now, I wish I wasn’t so eager to get out.
My friends from Sisters know every single thing about me because we experienced every single phase of our lives together. They make me laugh until I roll on the floor because my knees feel weak. They have supported me with every decision I have ever made and they are honest with me, even when they shouldn’t be. My friends gave me the strength I hold myself up with, they are my glue.
I truly hope that everyone gets the privilege of having friends like mine. I cherish these friendships more than most things, which is why moving on and leaving them has been so challenging. It is so hard to find other people with whom I feel the same spark around.
I know that these types of friendships will last a lifetime, but it doesn’t make not seeing them every day any easier. But I owe these wonderful bonds to growing up in Sisters because it allowed me to meet these wonderful people.
Sisters truly is one of a kind because along with the opportunity for closeknit friendships, the school system provides in-depth teacher-student relationships. I owe a major chunk of my success to my teachers because they allowed me to develop confidence in myself alongside my growth. My teachers took time to acknowledge and support me through every high and low. I still think about them daily, and constantly apply what they have taught me to my life.
I miss more than just the people of Sisters. I miss looking out my window, where a flock of turkeys
is stationed on the left and snowy mountains glisten on the right. I miss dancing at Folk Fest, Angeline’s bagels, the clear night sky, and always leaving my car unlocked.
Of course, there are things that I don’t miss like always running into someone you don’t exactly want to see at Bi-Mart, or nothing staying open past 5 p.m. I don’t miss the $20 burgers or the limited diversity, and I definitely don’t miss the summertime traffic down Cascade Avenue. But when I lived in Sisters I never knew how each of these things made Sisters my home. I am endlessly grateful that I grew up in such a magnificent little town, but my time living full-time in Sisters has ended, as I am beginning a new chapter in my life. This does not mean it is easy — it certainly is not — but it is exciting.
If I have learned anything, it is to cherish every moment, especially with those you love. So, if you are a soon-to-be graduate, please cherish your time in Sisters. Whether you love the town or hate it, I am sure there is a little tiny piece of it that you will miss.
Outlaws open league with wins
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws posted a 49-40 win on the road at Harrisburg in the league opener on Tuesday, January 14. On Friday, they edged out the visiting Creswell Bulldogs, who were ranked No. 4 in 3A entering the game, in a final score of 43-41.
On Tuesday, the game started with a Will McDonnell layup on an assist from Garrett Sager, but the Eagles answered with four straight points, and held onto the lead for the remainder of the quarter. Sisters stayed within three points, and had a trio of three-point plays in the quarter, two long balls from McDonnell and the other three points off a layup and made free throw from Bodie Schar.
Neither team scored the first three minutes of the second quarter. From there, the Outlaws outscored the Eagles 9-4 to close out the half tied up at 22-22. Kale Gardner scored twice in the scoring run, the first on a coast-to-coast transition basket and the next on a floater from the wing position.
The Eagles came out of the half and scored five consecutive points to take a five-point lead. However, the Outlaws shut the Eagles down for the rest of the period. They went on a 17point run to go up by 12 at the close of the third, 39-27.
Landen Scott and Kleren Labhart alternated to score the first 10 points in the run, and Sager finished the quarter when he found Levi Szesze under the basket for a layup with less than a minute left in the period.
Sisters scored first in the final quarter on a baseline out of bounds play when Gardner found Labhart at the basket for an easy two points. The Eagles came back and cut the lead to eight with just a bit over two minutes left in the game. Harrisburg was forced to foul and the Outlaws made three of their four attempts at the charity stripe to keep the Eagles out of striking distance. Time expired and the Outlaws tallied the win.
Scott scored 15 points, and had four rebounds and two steals. Gardner scored 10 points, pulled down 10
In the January 15 edition of The Nugget , the article “City code to get tighter for fire safety,” page 6, incorrectly reported the number of System Development Code drafts under review by Council as the third draft. It is the second draft.
boards, and dished out four assists. Labhart contributed nine points, McDonnell scored eight, and Schar added five.
Coach Chad Rush said, “This was a great way to start the league schedule against a very disciplined team. Starting the league season 1-0 was a goal of the team this week. I thought that the team did a great job of executing the game plan that the coaches put together. Now we move our focus to one of the league contenders in Creswell on Friday.”
On Friday against Creswell, the Bulldogs scored first, but Gardner quickly answered with a three-pointer on an assist from Sager just 30 seconds into the game. Both teams played tough defense the entire quarter and the score stayed close. Scott hit a long ball at the buzzer to give the Outlaws a three-point lead, 16-13, at the close of the period.
Sisters continued with their aggressive defense in the second quarter and held the Bulldogs to just eight points. On the Outlaws end, Labhart was the hot shooter, and scored six of the teams eights points, an up-and-under move with an assist from Schar, an uncontested layup with an assist from Sager, and a transition lay-up. Both defenses held strong the final 2:20 of the quarter as neither team would score a basket. At the half the Outlaws were up 24-21.
Just a little over a minute into the third period the Bulldogs closed the deficit and took a one-point advantage, but McDonnell gave the Outlaws the lead right back with a driving basket from the sideline. Later in the period, with the Bulldogs up by one, McDonnell
again made a shot right at the basket off a Gardner assist to regain the lead for the Outlaws at 28-27. The Bulldogs closed out the period on a 6-2 run and were up by three, 30-33, as teams headed into the fourth period.
Creswell took a five-point lead early in the final quarter, but the Outlaws responded with a 6-0 run of their own and recaptured the lead. Scott scored on a driving baseline layup, Gardner connected on one of two free-throws, Scott scored a layup, and Schar made one of two from the foul line.
With the score tied 39-39 and just 1:20 left in the game, Gardner found an open Labhart for a layup at the rim to put the Outlaws up by two, 41-39. With 50 seconds left, and the game once again tied up, 41-41, Scott drove to the basket, and banked in a fadeaway to give the Outlaws a 43-41 edge. The Bulldogs were unable to score and the Outlaws posted the win.
Gardner led the team with 14 points, four rebounds, and three assists, and Scott followed with 11 points, seven rebounds, and three steals. Labhart put up 10 points and McDonnell added seven. Sager had four assists in the game.
Rush said, “This was a game that showed us that our defense could win games for us. On a night when points were hard to come by, our defense held them in check with key stops at just the right moments in the game. I am so proud of the effort and grit the team showed tonight. While we will enjoy the win, we need to move on to Elmira.”
Sisters was to play at home against Elmira on Tuesday, January 21. They will play at Pleasant Hill on Friday, January 24.
Citizens sought for facilities review
Deschutes County is seeking citizens interested in serving on the County’s Facility Project Review Committee (FPRC). There are currently two unpaid, volunteer positions open.
The FPRC makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners, at the Board’s request, about pending and future building and facility projects at the county. The projects are generally considered high profile, critical, and challenging.
The county is looking for applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds, including those who have experience in commercial and public sector general contracting, architecture, real estate, commercial building cost estimating, developer, and public sector project management.
Committee members provide recommendations in the following areas: development options and alternative solutions, conceptual proposals, project scope, cost estimates and cost, contracting methodology, and value engineering. Members may also be asked to provide feedback and recommendations on whether to build, remodel, buy or lease a facility.
The FPRC meets quarterly, or on an as-needed basis. Meetings are hybrid and include options for virtual and in-person participation. Committee members may be asked to serve on subcommittees for specific projects.
To apply, visit www. deschutes.org/jobs. Application review will begin on Tuesday, February 4, but the positions will be posted until filled.
The Ranger’s Corner
Ian Reid Sisters District Ranger
New year, same us
A former boss told me once, as we were dodging a boulder garden in a raft on the North Umpqua River, “humans are like houseplants; after a couple of years, both need repotted.”
So, after almost seven years here as the district ranger in Sisters, last fall I voluntarily and temporarily repotted as the forest supervisor on the Modoc National Forest in northern California. Part of the reason was curiosity, part of it was the timing, part of it just could have been a wanderlust for new adventures and experiences. Maybe part of it was I thought my pot was getting a little tight, and I needed four months in a lonely Forest Service bunkhouse to
remind me that’s it’s just the right size here in Sisters.
The Modoc National Forest is a fascinating and isolated landscape. Some of it is like central Oregon, minus the people, with its juniper and ponderosa pine, sage and bitterbrush. Much of it is a rugged, windswept volcanic plateau. In spring, these poorly-drained soils of the Devil’s Garden become ephemeral wetlands and factories for nesting waterfowl and shorebirds.
The eerie “cruggggg” of the sandhill cranes flying overhead greeted me daily during my hitch on the Modoc.
Water on the Modoc National Forest travels three directions: into the large coastal river systems of the Pit-Sacramento or the Klamath, or east into the Great Basin to die a lonely evaporative death. My favorite place on the Modoc was the Warner Mountains, a long fault block system running north-south that reminded me of Steens Mountain in Oregon. Like Steens, the Warners are covered in quaking aspen, as well as conifers such as the Washoe pine, and abundant wildlife. On the Modoc, wild horses outnumbered houseless encampments about 1,200 to one and cattle are king, with almost the entire forest in active or
vacant grazing allotments. Alturas, where the forest headquarters is located, still boasts a busy auction yard, where abundant national forest forbs and bunchgrasses are converted into favorable auction prices.
The Modoc has an interesting and often tragic history, with prehistoric villages, pioneer trails and outposts, and conflicts. The Modoc Indian wars were significant battles between U.S. military and local tribes, with Kintpuash (aka Captain Jack), a famous Native American leader who was tried and executed as a war criminal at Fort Klamath. Subsequently, the small town where my bunkhouse was located was named after General Edward Canby, one of the few military generals killed in Indian conflicts. Current tribal relations on the Modoc National Forest are positive, and I worked with tribal leaders and staff from the Pit River Tribe, Fort Bidwell Reservation, Modoc Nation of Oklahoma, and other tribal groups during my stint there. Tribal support was key in the recent proclamation of a national monument on a portion of the Modoc.
So, what did I learn in four months spent in rural northern California? As the country song goes — but
perhaps unsupported by social media comment sections — “I believe most people are good.” Over a 25-year career in posts ranging from: John Day to Flagstaff; Baker City to Ashland; Gold Beach to Alturas; Ukiah to Sisters; not to mention dozens of fire incident command posts and spike camps strewn all over the West, I’ve considered myself very fortunate to get to work with the incredible group of Forest Service employees that I have crossed paths with, and the Modoc and the Pacific Southwest Regional employees were no exception. And the same holds true for those partners of the Forest Service, whether they are tribes, other agencies, ranchers, loggers, elected officials, outfitter guides, or non-governmental organizations; I believe most of them are also good. On the Modoc, I worked closely with the county board of supervisors as well as CalFire, Bureau of Reclamation, and the grazing associations. I also learned, or reaffirmed, that public lands are incredibly important to all, not just those who live directly adjacent to them; and that those who depend on those lands have valuable information that should be sought out and considered
when making management decisions.
Getting back to Sisters Country, I would be remiss if I did not thank Lauren DuRocher, who served as the acting district ranger while I was on temporary assignment on the Modoc. Lauren did a heckuva job keeping all the plates spinning, and brought the district to a better place than it was when I left it. On the home front, my wife Annie deserves equal recognition.
Our work here on the district for 2025 will focus around three forest priorities: 1. Community wildfire protection; 2. sustainable recreation; 3. public engagement. Expect a public forum to engage with us around special uses and recreation in February or March, a public meeting to discuss a proposed amendment to the Northwest Forest Plan on February 13, and our annual open house in early April where we will answer questions and share our detailed program of work for the year.
Finally, we welcome two new permanent employees to the district: Nate Price is a wildfire prevention technician and Emily Long is our incoming recreation team leader. We hope to connect with you at an upcoming public engagement session!
Girls basketball opens league with overtime losses
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Lady Outlaws opened league with a heartbreaking 53-56 loss in overtime at Harrisburg. On Friday they suffered another overtime loss, this time by three at 62-65.
In Tuesday’s action, Audrey Corcoran got the Outlaws on the scoreboard first with a baseline threepointer off a Shae Wyland assist. Toward the end of the period the Eagles went on an 8-0 run to close out the quarter up by eight at 7-15.
Sisters only put up five points in the second quarter and at the half trailed 12-29. Corcoran had three quick fouls in the first quarter and was forced to sit the entire second period.
Coach Paul Patton said, “We had issues both in getting our own points, mainly due to turnovers, and in stopping them from scoring, especially their best player, Maycie Dame, who had 14 first half points.
“At halftime we talked about how we weren’t executing our offense correctly and we weren’t making the right read versus their defense,” added Patton. “We also talked about making defensive adjustments to try and slow down Dame.”
In the third period the Outlaws scored 17 points equally spread out between Maddie Durham, Corcoran, Verbena Brent, and Wyland. Sisters held the Eagles to 13 points, and cut their deficit down by four.
The big deficit loomed as the Outlaws entered the final quarter. They persevered, and clawed their way back into the game. Corcoran picked up her fifth foul with under two minutes left on the clock and had to take a seat on the bench. The clock ticked down and with the Outlaws down 46-51, Wyland made a layup and was fouled with five seconds left in the game.
Sisters called a timeout to make a plan. Wyland missed the free-throw, but Durham tipped the rebound out to the perimeter to Jorja Christianson, who buried the three-pointer as the buzzer sounded. The long ball evened the score at 51-51 and sent the game into overtime.
Sadly, the Outlaws were only able to muster one bucket, a layup from Wyland, and they took the heartbreaking loss.
Durham led the team with 15 points, Wyland and Corcoran scored 12 each, and Brent added nine.
Patton said, “ I was really impressed with the team’s tenacity in the face of so many challenges. After a disappointing game against Burns we were hoping for a bounce-back performance and we kind of got it in the second half.
“It was a tough way to open league play, but encouraging in the fact that we battled back so hard,” added Patton. “So all we can do now is stay positive and believe that these setbacks are preparing us to prevail in similar situations later in the season.”
The same situation marked Friday’s game against Creswell, and the Outlaws had to record their second loss of league play.
With just under three minutes left in the first period the Outlaws found themselves down 2-8. From there they went on a five-point run, with three made free-throws from Brent, followed by a bucket from Paityn Cotner
which closed the gap to 7-8. With 15 seconds left the Bulldogs hit a three, but Durham drained a long ball at the buzzer to even the score at 10-10 to close out the period.
It was a tougher second quarter for the Outlaws, but Brent, Cotner, and Wyland all scored points to keep the game within reach with a 20-28 score at the half. Corcoran, the Lady Outlaws leading scorer was held scoreless the entire first half. Creswell’s top player, Mila Nguyen scored 10 of the Bulldogs’ second quarter points.
Sisters had multiple turnovers in the first half, and at the break talked about taking better care of the ball.
The Outlaws had their best quarter of the game in the third and outscored the Bulldogs 21-13, which tied the game at 41-41 at the close of the period. Cotner started the quarter with a three-pointer, Corcoran hit two free-throws and Cotner followed with a jumper to close the gap to 27-28. The score stayed close, within two or three points, and with five seconds left Brent scored to tie it up at 41-41.
Durham scored the first points of the final period,
with back-to-back threes to give the Outlaws a 47-41 advantage. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs went on a sixpoint run to even the score at 47-47. Wyland, the Outlaws top post player, fouled out with over six minutes left in the quarter.
Midway through the quarter the Bulldogs went on a mini-run and the Outlaws found themselves down 49-51. Brent made a layup and then Corcoran was fouled on a three-point attempt, and made all three shots to tie it back up at 54-54. At that point, Corcoran fouled out of the game. Each team made one free-throw and regulation ended in a 55-55 tie.
Brent and Durham each hit a jump shot to start the overtime period and the Outlaws went up 59-55. Creswell answered with a made free-throw followed by a long ball to tie it back up at 59-59.
Durham gave the Outlaws back the lead with a baseline pull-up jumper to make it 61-59. Soon, the score was even again at 62-62. The Bulldogs capitalized on an Outlaw turnover and took a two-point lead with just under one minute left on the clock.
After a couple of scoreless possessions the Outlaws were forced to foul, and Durham left the game with her fifth foul. The Bulldogs’ Nguyen made one of her free throws and a timeout was called. With 9.7 left on the clock the Outlaws were able to get the ball up the court and got it to Christianson for a three-point shot, that unfortunately missed the mark. Sadly, the Outlaws had to record their second consecutive overtime loss.
Sisters two freshmen led the team in scoring, Brent with 19 and Durham with 15. Corcoran scored 10, Cotner nine, and Wyland added seven.
“With players having to sit out due to foul trouble, and the fact we were able to stay competitive is a testament to our team’s scrappiness,” said Patton. “After our second tough overtime loss of the week, I told the team that we can’t get discouraged. These close games will eventually break our way as we continue to learn from them and improve our play.”
The Outlaws were scheduled to play at home against Elmira on Tuesday, January 21. They will travel to Pleasant Hill, the No. 1 team in the league, on Friday.
newsletters and website, social media, newspaper articles, and flyers placed at public buildings and community events.
• Recent, wholesale update to the City’s Dark Skies Outdoor Lighting Ordinance incorporating the required elements to apply for DarkSky certification.
• Establishment of astronomy curriculum education in the high school and formation of an Astronomy Club for students and adults.
• Commitment from the Sisters City Council to explore replacement or retrofit of publicly owned lighting that does not conform to the lighting ordinance.
• City staff ensuring compliance of new public and private lighting with the recently updated outdoor lighting ordinance (designed to comply with all DarkSky requirements).
• Regular collection of data and readings on outdoor lighting levels and monitoring of the impact of sky glow on our community.
• Letters of support from the Mayor, Oregon Chapter of the International DarkSky Association, and multiple local business owners and residents.
Members of the Sisters Dark Sky Committee who worked to earn the international certification include: Scott Woodford, community development director; Rima Givot, Sisters High
School science teacher; Scott Humpert, executive director of Explore Sisters; Ron Thorkildson, Sisters Astronomy Club; and Sue Stafford, freelance writer. Many other people made valuable contributions over the years to this effort including Mel Bartels and Barbara Bajec, amateur astronomers, other members of Sisters Astronomy Club, local photographers, City staff, past Sisters City Councils, and numerous local citizens who encouraged the efforts.
High school science teacher Givot expressed her appreciation for the community’s desire to protect the night sky over Sisters:
“Being able to gaze at an infinite sea of stars and feel our place in the universe has been an integral part of living in Sisters. The community values caring for and connecting with the natural world and came together to make sure the legacy of our starry skies continues. The DarkSky community certification will ensure that we can continue to feel wonder as we gaze at the Milky Way on a clear night over the mountains and feel our sense of place and connection.”
According to Community Development Director Woodford, “With the recent adoption of the City’s Dark Skies Outdoor Lighting Ordinance and this designation as an International DarkSky Community, next will be a big push in the community for education — both on the benefits of preserving the dark skies and how residents and business owners can help achieve that with retrofits of
non-compliant lighting. This will be done with articles in the local newspaper, community events such as star gazing parties, and providing funding assistance to the community to change out old lights.”
Former Mayor of Sisters Michael Preedin has been a staunch advocate for securing the DarkSky certification and had this to say:
“Way to go Sisters! I am proud to announce that Sisters is officially a DarkSky certified city! We tried really hard to become the first City in Oregon with the designation, but alas, Antelope became the first city just weeks ago, so we will take pride in being the second. This is another accomplishment that the Sisters community can proudly enjoy. Fostering our local environment by removing light pollution is something that helps all of humanity, not to mention, hello, astro-tourism. What a great accomplishment!
“We all need to thank people that have been working on this for years before the City and the rest of the community joined the movement, namely the Sisters Astronomy Club. They created the momentum to see this through. We sure do punch above our weight!
“Moving forward, expect guidance on how the community can join in getting dark-skies ready. We plan on helping guide businesses and residences to changeout existing non-compliant light fixtures and help those that may need more assistance. We will also keep you informed of what the City
and other public entities will be doing to also comply, as we are all in this together.
“Keep being Sisters!”
Founded in 2001, the International Dark Sky Places Program is a nonregulatory and voluntary program encouraging communities, parks, and protected areas worldwide to preserve and protect dark sites through effective lighting policies, environmentally responsible outdoor lighting, and public education. When used indiscriminately, artificial light can disrupt ecosystems, impact human health, waste money and energy, contribute to climate change,
and block our view and connection to the universe. Sisters now joins more than 230 places that have demonstrated robust community support for dark sky advocacy and strive to protect the night from light pollution. For more information, visit https://darksky.org/what-wedo/international-dark-skyplaces/.
The mission of DarkSky is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Learn more at www.darksky. org, where the entry describing Sisters can also be found.
Sisters’ dark skies are one of the features that attract residents and visitors to this beautiful part of the world.
PHOTO BY JAROD GATLEY
Habitat rif t Store
A NNOUNCEMENT S
Temporar y Closure Sisters Habitat for Humanity will temporarily close the rif t Store at 211 E . Cascade Ave. f rom Sunday, January 26 until Monday, Februar y 10, to make store improvement s. Storewide inventory-reduction sale is happening now Donation intake is halted now until Tuesday, Februar y 11. Sisters Habit at appreciates the community’s support and regrets the interruption to the public
Hunter Education Class Starts Februar y 11, 2025 . Register online at odf w.com . For more information call Rick Cole at 541-420- 6934
A Course in Miracles Study Group
Interested in exploring the principles of love, forgiveness , and inner peace? “A Course in Miracles” study group has formed near Sisters , meeting the first Sunday of each month Cont act Steven at 541-6 68-3834 or srudnit@gmail.com
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.
Living Well With Dementia Sisters Suppor t Groups
Living Well now o ers t wo support groups . A support group for the care partners and family of those diagnosed with some form of dementia meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month f rom 1-2:30 p.m. at Sisters Senior Living , 411 E Carpenter Ln. A support group for the person diagnosed with some form of dementia in the early stages meets the same days and times , also at e Lodge. Info: 541-6 47-0 052.
SISTERS LIBRARY COMING EVENTS
A Change in Perspective: Rethinking Dementia Care
Join Living Well with Dementia Sisters for a transformative presentation designed to shift how we approach dementia care. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply want to underst and more about supporting those with dementia or Alzheimer’s , this session will o er valuable insight s on innovative, compassionate care strategies . ursday, Januar y 23 , f rom 10:30 to 11:30 a .m. at Sisters Library For more information or to register go to www deschuteslibrary.org/ calendar/adult
e Peaceful Presence
Projec t Connection Cafés Communit y members will come together at weekly “Connection Cafés” for supportive dialogue around personal experiences with illness , death, and grief ese gathering spaces provide compassionate human contact and ensure that people’s healthrelated social needs are being addressed proactively. e
Sisters Connection Cafés will meet Wednesdays , January 29 to February 26, f rom 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Sisters Library. Participants may attend one café or all ere is no charge, and all are welcome. Info: 541-293-8636.
Free Pet Food
Budget tight this month, but you still need pet food for your dog or cat? Call the Furr y Friends pet food bank at 541-797-4 023 to schedule your pickup. Pickups available ursdays , beginning at 12:30 p.m . Located at 412 E . Main Ave., Ste. 4, behind e Nug get
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
Americ an Legion and VFW VF W Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 meet the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at Spoons Restaurant, 473 E . Hood Ave. Sisters . Email SistersVeterans@gmail.com for information.
Happy Trails Horse Rescue
Seek s Volunteers
Calling all horse lovers! Happy Trails Horse Rescue needs volunteers! Can you help them help horses? New Volunteer Orientation the first and third Sundays at 10 a .m. or call 541-241-0783 to schedule! Learn more at https://www happytrailshr.org.
Sisters Habitat
Volunteers Needed
New Year! New You! Sisters Habitat for Humanity is seeking volunteers! Go to www sistershabitat.org and click on the green Volunteer Hub to start your volunteer journey today Sisters 4 -H Dog Group for Youth
Have fun and meet new friends while learning about care & training of dogs , including anatomy, parasites , feeding , di erent sports that dogs can do, and more. Sisters K9 Paws 4-H encourages youth to set goals and helps to develop selfconfidence and problem-solving In August group members can show their dog at the Deschutes County Fair 4-H Dog Show. is group is open to children 9-18 years of age who weigh as much as their dog. Projects are available for Cloverbud children ages 5 to 8 . Register at Deschutes Count y Extension 4-H, 541-548-6088, ext. 2. For more information, cont act: Nanc y Hall 541-9044433, nancyhall4h@gmail.com.
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
STARS Seeks Volunteers to Transpor t Patients
Help Sisters Countr y residents get to nonemergency medical appointments in Sisters , Redmond, and Bend . Attend a free t wo-hour training. Emails from STARS 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 and volunteer to keep Sisters healthy one ride at a time.
Weekly Food Pantry Changes
Wellhouse Food Pantr y has a new name: CORE Market . It is still located at 222 N . Trinity Way in Sisters . Open ursdays , Januar y 23 and 30, f rom 3 to 4 p.m . Starting Februar y 3 , market hours switch to Mondays , f rom 1 to 2 p.m. Info: 541-588-2332.
PET OF
TH E WEEK
Humane Societ y of Central Oregon 541-382-3537
BENSON
Benson is a gentle 8-year-old cat who came to HSCO as a stray. After taking some time to warm up, he now enjoys attention from sta and volunteers . Benson will thrive with a patient adopter who can help him adjust to a new home. Black Butte Veterinary Clinic 541-549-1837
— SPONSORED BY —
SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES
Baha’i Faith
For information, devotions, study groups , etc., contac t Shauna Rocha 541-6 47-9826 • www.bahai.org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteachings .org
Calvar y Church
484 W. Washington St. , Ste. C & D • 541-588-6288
10 a .m. Sunday Worship • www.ccsisters.org
Chapel in the Pines Camp Sherman • 541-815-9153
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
e Church of Jesus Christ of L at ter-Day Saint s
452 Trinit y Way • Branch President, 5 41-977-5559;
10 a .m. Sunday Sac rament Meeting
e Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration
121 N Brook s Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087 www.transfiguration-sisters.org
8:30 a .m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship
10 :15 a .m. Episcopal Sunday Worship
e Resting Place meeting at Sisters Communit y Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy www.restingplace.us • hello@restingplace.us 5 p.m. Sunday Worship
Seventh-Day Adventist Church
541-815-9848
11 a .m. S aturday Worship
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (ELCA) 386 N . Fir Street • 541-549-5831 www.shepherdof thehillsluther anchurch.com
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Church of the N az arene 67130 Har rington Loop Rd. • 541-389-8960 www.sistersnaz .org • info@sistersnaz .org
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Communit y Church (Nondenominational) 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy. • 541-549-1201 www.sisterschurch.com • info@sisterschurch.com
7:30 a .m. Daybreak Ser vice • 9:30 a .m. Sunday Worship
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
Wellhouse Churc h 442 Trinit y Way • 541-549-4184 ht tps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com
10 a .m. Sunday 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 lisa@nug getnews .com or drop o at 4 42 E . Main Ave. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays
Bull by Bull
By Judy Bull Columnist
• I backed my brand new Bronco into a telephone pole in Sisters the very first day I drove it. No problem to get the dent out. Now, though, it seems there’s no such thing as repairing a dented fender. When one fender meets another fender, or worse, the cars involved are often totaled by insurance companies because body parts comprised of “composite material” just can’t withstand a good, old fashion fender bender.
• It never fails: I’ve kept certain statements for years and years and finally and at last got rid of ‘em last January, keeping only the last two years. Wouldn’t you just know that today I needed one from ’21.
• Being a leftie has its perks. For instance, when using a vegetable peeler, the left edge of the blade remains sharper when used only by righties. Also, come to find out, the pad on my refurbished laptop is far less responsive on the right side than the left. Oh, and there’s no way a leftie can use a proper butter knife correctly.
• The other day a couple of friends and I were having a one-upmanship contest to see who had known and loved the coolest pickup truck. I won with a 1958 Dodge Power Wagon, red.
• Every year my friend Judy sets a lovely Thanksgiving dinner table. This year the table and chairs were newly acquired and yet-to-be tried antiques, unmatched. Long story short, most everyone’s chin was just inches above the table. Once when I was driving home from visiting Judy, I timed my trip through central California such that the miles and miles of fields of sunflowers would be looking my way as I passed through.
• While penguin-walking over the ice to get to our cars Sunday night, Tom took my hand, being the gentleman that he is, and I thought to myself I may like old age, after all. Mark Twain said it best, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
Care Solace program, generously sponsored by the Round House Foundation, was celebrated for its critical support for our students, staff, and families.
The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing projects and future plans. Enrollment growth is on its projected path, discussions about potentially relocating the District Office to the SPRD building are underway, and the board approved the SSD School Calendar for 2025-2026. A new meeting start time of 5 p.m. was also established for all future regular board meetings. With a focus on continuous improvement and community engagement, the district is poised for a successful new year.
I encourage everyone to stay informed by subscribing to the weekly district newsletter at ssd@ssd6.org.
Wishing everyone a wonderful new year!
Curt Scholl Superintendent
s s s
Fire danger
To the Editor:
Here we go again! Last week, my mailbox presented me with a 22-page set of papers from the Oregon Wildfire Risk Explorer titled Property Owner’s Report. The documents had been prepared by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and Oregon State University, et al. One document told me that my home and my property are classified as “High” for Property Wildfire Hazard and “Yes” for Within Wildland-Urban Interface. A paragraph outlined in red and in bold printing stated: “Only properties that are both high hazard and in the wildland-urban interface will be required (my emphasis) to meet enhanced defensible space standards (ORS 476.392) and home hardening codes (ORS 455.612).”
Required? That sounds pretty darn serious. So, I read all 22 pages and saw that a different document from the Oregon Building Codes Division tells me that “If you are in a high hazard area and in the wildland-urban interface: you do not have to do anything related to home hardening.” What? I just read that I did.
On Thursday, the same mailbox gave me The Nugget with the lead article, above the fold, “Sisters casts wary eye on fire danger” by Bill Bartlett. I think Mr. Bartlett was kind to use the word “wary” instead of “suspicious.” I am aware that the Oregon Department of Forestry produced a wildfire risk map in July 2022, which was met with so much immediate public backlash that it was removed five weeks later. The new 2024 wildfire risk map shows fewer areas in Sisters Country at high risk and more areas at low risk. That’s good, assuming the map is completely accurate. The documents I received mentioned in several places that it is illegal for insurers to use the risk map to determine insurance rates and coverage. Are you kidding me? That map is an underwriter’s dream come true. But it is illegal to use the risk map for insurance purposes, they say. Yeah, right. And it is illegal for me to drive over 55 mph on the highway.
I agree with the concept of defensible space and some home hardening ideas. There are simple things a homeowner or renter can easily do to minimize or totally mitigate the chances of dealing with a wildfire. The documents mention that an Oregon Defensible Space Code is under development by the Oregon State Fire Marshal as required by the Oregon State Legislature, and it may be applicable in the future to Oregon property owners. So, a question arises: who is going to enforce the Defensible Space Code and the home-hardening codes in the future once the appeals are over, the dust settles and the wildfire risk maps are a matter of normalcy. Should l expect to see a squad of ODF workers and OSU grad students coming onto my property
with ladders and tape measures to see if my gutters are clean, my trees are 10 feet apart and my grass is less than four inches high?
The biggest code violation by me could be those darn ponderosa pine needles. Presently, they have been raked away over 100 feet from my home but that will last only until the next windy day.
Jim Cline
s s s
Biden’s accomplishments
To the Editor:
Here is just a fraction of Joe Biden’s historic and unprecedented accomplishments as our 46th President. It’s a testament to his vision for the longterm for America, and the hard work and commitment of his entire Administration.
At the same time, though, I also have to acknowledge that Biden, while working tirelessly to broker peace and pushing for a twostate solution, also made the unforgivable and inexplicable decision to continue giving military aid to Israel even after it became obvious Netanyahu was committing genocide against the Palestinian people. However, even with that dark stain on his legacy, I would hope the American people could still appreciate President Biden’s decades-long commitment to making things better for the American people. I believe his presidency is an example of how a democracy should work and in the future I trust his legacy will reflect that. It’s unfortunate the media focused more on gaffes or minor missteps or Republican rants about made-up crimes than what was actually accomplished.
The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provided $1.2 trillion in federal funding over eight years aimed at overhauling the nation’s roads, bridges, railways, ports, utilities, internet access and more. The bill would make the biggest investment in America’s infrastructure system in decades, creating jobs and bolstering the economy in the process. It is the largest spending package on climate change in history and is predicted to bring into the economy $3.3 trillion in private investment over 10 years.
The Biden administration took on corporations by enacting corporate minimum taxes to ensure billion dollar companies can’t get away with paying zero dollars in federal income taxes, places a surcharge on corporate stock buybacks, and investments in the internal revenue services to ensure wealthy tax cheats pay their fair share.
The IRA allowed Medicare to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies for 10 drugs (for the first year and more every year after that) which will save the taxpayers $6 billion on prescription drug costs and consumers 1.5 million on out-of-pocket costs in 2026 alone.
The PACT Act is the most significant expansion of benefits and services for veterans in more than 30 years.
Regarding student loans, the Administration leaves office having approved a cumulative $188 billion in forgiveness for 5 million borrowers.
We’ll see what the next four years brings and what if any of these policies are left standing. Concerns about veterans, helping citizens with high grocery bills, healthcare costs, childcare, elder care, rent, student loans, corporate rip-offs — none of this is part of this next administration’s agenda. And do you think these people care at all about what happens to the people of Gaza? Their policies are essentially to enrich and empower a tiny segment of the population, which will end up harming everyone else. Understand, they have to pay for their massive tax cuts for the rich, which includes all the billionaires in this new administration, because to them you can never have enough. But really, how many rocket ships do you need?
Terry Weygandt
HORIZONS: Applications are open for education program
Continued from page 3
like Ghana, Switzerland, and South Korea.
“One of the really cool parts of my program were the student flats where I lived with other international students. I met one girl from Ukraine who had been living in New Zealand for the past seven years, and other students from America, Canada, and Norway,” says Kissinger. Her studies in New Zealand revolved around classes that helped her engage in the local community, taking marine biology, Māori studies, and the
history of New Zealand from the 17th century.
“It really changes the way you view yourself and the way you view the U.S. as a country. It definitely situated me more on where we stand on the world’s stage and changed perspective on myself and how I view others,” says Kissinger. “If you’re curious and openminded you’ll definitely be able to engage more. What the program is looking for are bridge builders and sending students who represent them well and have genuine purpose and leave a positive impact.”
Applications for the scholarship are open, for more information go to https://www.gilman scholarship.org/.
SISTERS-AREA
EVENTS & Enter tainment
WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 22
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
THURSDAY • JANUARY 23
Paulina Springs Books Poetr y Open Mic & William Stafford Birthday Celebration 6:30 p.m., sign up at 6 p.m. Celebrate by sharing your favorite William Stafford poems. Bring a poem or two to share — Stafford’s or your own.
FRIDAY • JANUARY 24
The Belfr y Live Music: Hillstomp PDX junkbox blues duo bring a memorable live performance tapping into a magic that cannot be rehearsed. Colin Trio opens with a cavalcade of rock, soul, jazz, funk, and blues. 7 to 10 p .m. Tickets: www.belfryevents.com.
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • JANUARY 25
Sisters Librar y Live Music: Lumina Flute Trio Enjoy an hour of music courtesy of Central Oregon Symphony. 2 to 3 p.m. Free Info: dpl.libnet.info/event/12202725
SUNDAY • JANUARY 26
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Come to play Scrabble socialize, and drink coffee. Open to all. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • JANUARY 28
The Belfr y Frontiers in Science Lecture Series: “Amazing Adaptations: Can Birds Reduce the Stress of Climate Change?” by Dr. Jamie M. Cornelius presented by Sisters Science Club Social hour begins at 6 p.m., lecture at 7 p.m. Adults $5 at the door; teachers and students free
WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 29
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
THURSDAY • JANUARY 30
Luckey's Woodsman Trivia: "Tap Takeover Trivia" with Oblivion Brewing and Legends Cider on site pouring samples and providing swag and prizes for winners. 5:30 p.m. Info: www.luckeyswoodsman.com.
FRIDAY • JANUARY 31
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 1
The Belfr y Live Music: Steve Poltz playing the greatest show of his life! The alt-folk singer/songwriter and comedy savant takes the stage 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets and info: www.belfryevents.com.
SUNDAY • FEBRUARY 2
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Come to play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Open to all. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
BINGO
students. There is no cost for students to participate.
• Scholarships for graduating seniors - $20,000 awarded to graduating seniors in 2024 in partnership with the Boeschen Foundation.
• Musical instrument acquisition and repair – monetary support to ensure SHS band students have access to quality instruments.
• Fiddle program support – help with travel costs, camp tuition, and instructor fees for aspiring fiddlers at the middle school and high school level.
• Guest teaching artists — professional touring musicians were hired by SFFP to work with students in the Americana Class at Sisters High School and Outlaw Strings Club at Sisters Middle School.
• School-wide assemblies featuring Sisters Folk Festival artists delivered inspiring performances for the entire student body at all three Sisters public schools last September.
development of wellrounded individuals and a thriving community,” said SFFP Executive Director Crista Munro. “We are proud to support these valuable programs that provide creative opportunities for all students in Sisters, especially at a time when many public schools are making cuts to their music and art education budgets.”
Munro noted that support for arts education has been part of the nearly threedecade-old festival organization’s efforts from very early in its story.
“I think it’s really important to the town,” she said of the SFFP investment, “and it goes back to the roots of the organization... it was baked into the mission from early on.”
SFFP hosts creativity camps for youth, and offers music and art classes for adults at its Sisters Art Works building. Classes held at Sisters Art Works are offered with a Pay What You Can fee structure to help eliminate financial barriers to participation. That enables families to access music education that can be expensive when accessed privately.
Munro also noted that many alumni of the Americana Project have gone on to find a path in music in their adult lives.
“Benji (Nagel) is the person that comes to mind,” she said, noting that in addition to farming locally, Nagel books music and plays professionally in a number of bands.
Nordic skiers compete at Meissner Classic
By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent
A trio of Outlaws took part in the Meissner Classic Nordic Ski race on Saturday, January 18, and held their own in a large field of skiers representing both the Northern and Southern Divisions of the Oregon Interscholastic Ski Racing Association.
Spencer Tisdel placed sixth overall and first among Northern Division skiers with a time of 19:32 in the 5k classic race.
Kevin Mattox of Mountain
View won the race in 18:00.5. Ben Hayner placed 12th overall (22:38) and Emerson Backus, in his first classic style race, placed 17th (24:18).
The three skiers pulled together for the 3 x 1 kilometer relay and placed third overall in 30:58, about a minute behind winner Mountain View. Teams from Caldera, La Pine, Ashland, and South Eugene also took part in the race.
Monday, January 20, the Outlaws were scheduled to race in the Hoodoo Sprints Night Race.
• Luthier program support — $5,000 raised to directly benefit the luthier (guitar building) program at Sisters High School, which fosters craftsmanship and trade skills.
“We believe that access to music and arts education is essential for the
“To me, it’s breaking down these barriers and providing opportunities for kids... that in the past were only available to families with means.”
SFFP relies on community support from Sisters and the broader music community to fund its programming. Donors can target donation to specific programs. General donations are appreciated to support the staff that makes the work possible. Volunteers are critical to the staging of SFFP events.
For more information on how to support SFFP, visit https://www.sffpresents. org. SFF: Programs
New Yea r, New Look!
The Outlaws Nordic ski team turned in a solid performance in a large field at Meissner Sno Park last weekend.
PHOTO BY CHARLIE KANZIG
SFF Presents supports an After School Creativity Club program.
PHOTO PROVIDED
N et freelancer combines or writing and exper tise ellness
Ashlee Francis is a freelance ter and columnist for The et providing health-andellness-related content — and wns and operates Sweat , a Sisters gym offering a el of individual attention.
kg round in the itness industr y and personal experience both as an athlete and with recovering from serious Ashlee has a wealth of insights to bring to bear. She is also a talented writer. She won writing prizes as a student, and was the front page editor for her e newspaper at Westmont e in Santa Barbara, where she studied kinesiology
In 2025, she plans to be a bigger presence in these pages, with ticles offering insights ercise, diet, sleep and other related topics — and a column exploring the life stories s in Sisters Countr y.
TRAGEDIES:
Tombstone read “Gone so soon”
Continued from page 1
Oregon by way of the overland route across the Great Plains in 1846. Reverend Rueben Claypool was a methodist minister in Indiana and had 15-17 children with his second wife Isabella. They became one of the earliest pioneer families in Linn County, settling near Brownsville. Some Claypool relations went to Prineville, an early settlement in eastern Oregon. Reverend Claypool’s sons Rueben and Joseph left Linn County in 1874, in search of opportunity in the wilder country near Sisters.
Accounts vary on where they first settled. Ray Hatton tells a story of Claypool families settling on Tai Flat (now off Wilt Road) and being alarmed, yet unharmed, when hundreds of Native Americans set up camp around them on traditional meadow ground. Martin Winch in his history of Camp Polk calls the Claypools “meadow families” who
settled bottomlands along Whychus Creek north of Camp Polk.
The youngest Claypool, Joseph, and his wife Catherine, became proprietors at Fish Lake Station in the dense fir forests on the Santiam Wagon Road, providing water, food, and pasture to travelers between the Willamette Valley and eastern Oregon. Joseph became a principal freighter on the road transferring goods by horse-drawn wagons.
The station was a family affair and brother Rueben (Junior) and his wife Fannie were working there when their two-year-old daughter Nellie became very ill in late November of 1880.
The Sisters history “That was Yesterday” records an account from Nellie’s sister.
The entire family loaded into a wagon and started the long journey for the nearest doctor in Prineville. By the time they reached Camp Polk Station, another resting place for travelers, Nellie was too sick to continue, and soon died. The Hindmans ran the road station at their ranch, and cared for the stricken family with kindness, making a tiny coffin, lining it
with cloth, and helping bury her. After 144 years, Nellie’s marble tombstone is stained but still readable, adorned with a dove and the inscription “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Nellie is believed to be the second burial at the cemetery.
Joseph’s family soon had their own tragedy as their six-day old son Lawrence died in April of 1881 and was buried near his little cousin. His tilting tombstone of streaked marble says “Gone so soon.” Joseph’s family lived in Sisters for over 50 years before moving to Bend. Joseph’s obituary in the Bend Bulletin in 1933
noted he was the youngest of 17 children and at 83 had lived much longer than his many siblings.
Rueben and Joe Claypool’s Uncle David settled on Indian Ford Creek in 1879 and his log cabin was still standing in the late sixties when it was taken down as Indian Ford Ranch was developed.
Little Nellie’s family left Sisters in 1885 and headed east to homestead on Soldier Creek near the Alvord Desert and Burns. An oral history from a Claypool descendant was recorded in 1972 for the Claire Luce Western History Room of the Burns library. Ilda May Hayes recounted that her grandfather Rueben
Claypool had prime grazing land in Sisters but was stricken with gold fever saying, “And they had...the Metolius no less, my grandfather ran his cattle right there on the Metolius — in the grass so tall he couldn’t see his cattle. But he got the fever for the Blue Bucket Mine and it was supposed to be not far from Fort Harney. So, he had always dabbled in mines, and they just decided, they had some cattle, and so they came up here and brought their little herd of cattle, and he got a homestead, because he was sure that he could find the Blue Bucket Mine.”
Albertha Claypool.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Rueben, Belle, and Fannie Claypool.
TRAGEDIES: Family left mark on Central Oregon history
Continued from page 14
Noting everyone had their own version of the Blue Bucket Mine story, Ilda was asked to tell hers, and said, “You can tell that that the immigrants had camped. And they went out in the evening, and they found these gold nuggets. And of course, they brought them in a blue bucket. And then they had to move on because they didn’t have enough provisions to stay on. And when they did move on, they took all the nuggets they could in their blue bucket. And then went on down into the Willamette Valley. Then they came back, they could never find it.” Rueben had no more luck than countless others and never found the fabled gold deposit.
Celebrating a legendary Oregon poet
Paulina Springs Books will host a gathering and poetry open mic in honor of beloved Oregon poet William Stafford on Thursday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m. This January would have been Stafford’s 111th birthday, and the community is invited to gather in celebration of his life and legacy.
In 1906 Rueben and Fannie lost their youngest daughter Albertha to consumption (or tuberculosis), at the age of 22, despite their attempts to save her by travelling to Arizona for 10 months where the climate might ease her symptoms. But their three other children lived to take care of their parents. A photo of Rueben, Fannie, and daughter Belle in later years shows a stoic threesome. The Claypool’s many descendants lived on in Burns. Their oldest daughter Edith lived to be 94 and appears in an early photo of a Burns picnic with a crowd of families dressed in white and their Sunday best.
The Claypools left an imprint on the landscape with place names including Claypool Butte on the Cascade crest (site of a recent wildfire), Claypool Ridge near Paulina,
Claypool Spring, and Claypool Street in Prineville. The many Oregon Claypools rest together in the Claypool Pioneer cemetery near Brownsville, in Burns, and across the country where marriages took them. But little Nellie and Lawrence Claypool are alone at Camp Polk with their quiet playmates, their spirits among the spring sand lilies, summer iris, grasses, and sage, reminders of a strong pioneer family who left their mark on Central Oregon history.
William Stafford spent much of his life in Oregon and taught at Lewis and Clark College for over 30 years. His first major collection of poems “Traveling Through the Dark” was published when Stafford was 48 and won the National Book Award in 1963. He went on to publish more than 65 volumes of poetry and prose. Stafford served as Oregon Poet Laureate and as Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, a position that is now known as Poet Laureate. Folks are invited to share
two or three poems and encouraged to share their favorite Stafford poems or share their own work. Signups for the open mic will begin at 6:15 p.m.
Paulina Springs Books is located at 252 W. Hood Ave. For more about the event call 541.549.0866 or visit https:// www.paulinaspringsbooks. com/.
Burns picnic with Edith Claypool Hayes.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Sisters will mark the 111th birthday of poet William Stafford. PHOTO
Connection Cafés bring Sisters together
Connection Cafés, sponsored by The Peaceful Presence Project, are set to provide a welcoming and compassionate space for supportive conversations about illness, death, and grief. The weekly gatherings, held in Sisters on Wednesdays from January 29 through February 26, 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Sisters Library, will bring people together for supportive dialogue.
“We all know how difficult it can be navigating care in the best of times, and we all know the challenges that are present in a rural and dispersed community like Sisters. We also know that our neighbors here in Sisters show up for each other, and that people want to show that they care. So, we wondered, what if our community came together to support one another during times of illness, dying, and grief?”
organizer Holly Haddad told The Nugget.
According to Haddad and Michael Deal, “chronic perceived loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of a variety of health concerns, and social integration has been found to be the leading factor in decreasing mortality across a range of serious conditions.”
From the report Health Care in America — The Experience of People with Serious Illness:
• People with serious illness experience distress over and above the physical symptoms of their specific condition. Social isolation, a known risk factor for worse health outcomes, is common, with one-third of respon dents reporting feeling left out, lacking in companion ship, or isolated from others. A “Community Connector” approach is comunity-driven, rather than medicalized.
Deal and Haddad note that, “It offers a fresh per spective to the notion that our mortality is only the purview of health professionals and medical systems, and that dying ought to be sequestered in hospitals or palliative care units.
“It understands death as a normal social occurrence that influences our commu nity as a whole. In doing so, it acknowledges the effects that an individual’s death has on others, both through the dying process itself and after death. It creates space and social support for our neigh bors who are navigating ill ness, death, and grief.”
Depression Museum Consider THIS
Mitchel Luftig Columnist
they are not mature enough to handle adult responsibilities.
To make matters worse, one bad outcome may remind them of other bad outcomes, until they are buried beneath the crush of their (perceived) failures, and the possibility of living a happier life seems entirely out of their reach.
I call a review of bad outcomes from the past, making a visit to the Depression Museum, where exhibitions of work, relationship, and parenting failures are on prominent display.
opportunity for promotions is scuttled. Work, which once provided them with a sense of purpose, no longer offers them fulfillment.
One way that a person susceptible to depression can end this vicious cycle — depending upon the environment for their sense of selfworth — is to embrace what Buddhism calls our Basic Goodness.
Those who struggle with depression may approach everyday decisions differently from others, believing that the outcome of each decision they make, each action they take, demonstrates something fundamental about their character.
The person susceptible to depression relies upon feedback from their environment to gauge their self-worth. Positive feedback validates their worth as an individual, but negative feedback can just as quickly strip them of self-worth.
Good outcomes say that they are competent and intelligent, they are someone who is reliable. But bad outcomes proclaim to the world that
Let’s say that a person vulnerable to depression finds themselves stuck in traffic, late to a staff meeting. They arrive at work feeling flustered, apologetic. Sensitive to how others may view their late arrival, they keep their head down during the remainder of the staff meeting and avoid eyecontact. When someone asks them a question, they mumble their response.
With a little distance from the event, this individual may recover their emotional footing, but later that evening they attend an exhibition of their work failures — arriving late for meetings, missing deadlines, inarticulate expression of thoughts and ideas.
The visit to the Depression Museum strips them of their self-confidence. They lose sight of their value as an employee. They disengage from coworkers, keep their thoughts and ideas to themselves. Their supervisor begins to write substandard performance reviews and any
Because of our Basic Goodness, we enter the world already worthy of love, already worthy of respect, already worthy of the opportunity to live a happy and fulfilling life. We don’t need favorable outcomes to prove our worth, either to ourselves or to others. Our worth comes from the inside, as a manifestation of our Basic Goodness.
Having spent a lifetime searching outside of ourselves for our self-worth, agonizing over decisions, trying to please others so that they confirm that we are in fact okay, we may have missed out on the opportunity to cultivate self-awareness: What is truly important to us? What are our guiding principles and values? What is our “true north?”
Once we know the answer to these questions, we will be able to utilize our internal compass to navigate the twists and turns of life, without getting lost. Aligning our behavior more closely with our core principles and values ensures that our inner compass reliably points us to our true north.
Once the person
vulnerable to depression understands that their selfworth is a manifestation of their Basic Goodness, setbacks no longer derail them. When, because of a traffic jam, they arrive late to work, they don’t waste time berating themselves for something that was outside of their control. Instead, they take a series of slow, deep breaths to calm their nervous system. Next, they focus on the discussion at hand and await an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. Since their late arrival doesn’t make them feel like a failure, there’s no reason for them to revisit previous work mistakes at the Depression Museum. Their confidence in themselves remains intact and they continue to find fulfillment in their job.
Before we learn that our worth is an internal matter, a manifestation of our Basic Goodness, we may expect that even those who know us best value us more when we achieve a positive outcome and value us less when our decisions result in an undesirable outcome.
But now we can see that those who care about us have never relied upon external measures of success and failure to judge our worth — they understand that our Basic Goodness entitles us to love, respect, and the opportunity to live a happy and fulfilling life. The tension we felt awaiting the judgment of those we care about begins to dissipate, leaving room for appreciably more intimacy.
Obituary
Rhonda Gay Darst (Combs), born on June 18, 1968, in Arcata, California, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Sisters, Oregon, on December 2, 2024.
She was the beloved daughter of Mike and Carol Combs. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother — affectionately known as “Honey” — sister, and friend. Rhonda touched countless lives with her giving heart and unwavering kindness. She graduated from St. Bernard’s High School in 1986. She married the love of her life, Donny Darst, in July 1991. Together, they built a life full of love and purpose.
Rhonda was the proud owner of Country Living Salon in Arcata, California, where she shared her talent and passion for hairstyling. After moving to Harrisburg, Oregon, in 2003, she continued styling hair for several years before pursuing her true calling: caring for children. Rhonda provided childcare in her home for many families before dedicating herself to foster care. Over the years, she and Donny fostered around twelve children and adopted three of them into their loving family.
In 2010, Rhonda and her family moved to Sisters, where she became a cherished member of the community. She worked part time at an antique shop and found joy in gardening, camping, hosting gatherings, and most of all, spending time with her family and friends.
Rhonda is survived by
her husband Donny; her children Carley (Travis), Clayton (Teylor), Cody (Thomas), David, Lainne, and Sadiee; and her grandchildren Emmett, Hudson, Adysen, Ayden, Cohen, and Silas; her mother Carol Combs; her siblings Treg (Maryann), Troy (Penny), Shelley (Brian); mother and father-in-law Don and Barbara Darst; and many more treasured family members and dear friends. Preceded in death by her father Mike Combs and grandmother Lois James. Her legacy of love and generosity will live on through them and the many lives she touched.
Rhonda will be remembered for her selflessness and her ability to bring warmth to everyone she met. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
Details regarding services (Sisters) will be shared at a later date.
REPORT: Drought expected to be more severe
Continued from page 1
company, also contributed.
The report, which stems from a 2007 legislative mandate, is used in statewide emergency and natural hazard planning, according to Erica Fleishman, director of the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute.
Fleishman told the Capital Chronicle that the latest report shows that data on climate change, and the climate modeling that can be done with it, has gotten increasingly precise at showing how, when and where temperature rises will lead to droughts, floods and other extreme weather events.
“There’s less uncertainty. We are increasingly confident this is the way things are headed,” she said.
More severe drought
The state is headed for longer and more severe annual droughts during the summer and an increase in heavy winter rains as opposed to snow, the report said. Precipitation in Oregon has been below average in 18 of the last 24 years, and snowfall in Oregon is projected to decline 50 percent by 2100 at current rates of global warming.
The average annual temperature in Oregon has increased 2.2 degrees
Fahrenheit since the industrial revolution began just over a century ago and humans began pumping enormous amounts of heattrapping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. Scientists expect the average annual temperature in Oregon to rise at least five degrees in the next 50 years and 7.6 degrees by the end of the century if humans worldwide do not urgently begin reducing and ending the burning of fossil fuels.
Fleishman called the data showing declines in snow “sobering.”
“When I looked at projections of every part of the state losing 50 percent of snowpack by the end of the century I said some things,” she said. “But there is the capacity to prepare. This isn’t going to happen next year, this is a trend. Knowing that, how over the next couple decades can industries in Oregon be responding to that?”
Other economic vulnerabilities identified in the report were posed by longer, more intense wildfire seasons, which depress forestland values and sales and lead to agriculture losses from major smoke events that make working outdoors unsafe and compromise the quality of products like wine grapes.
Potential for headway
Among the areas identified by the authors as ones where Oregon can make
greater headway in curbing greenhouse gas emissions are protecting forests — which could be managed to increase their carbon capture and storage — and reforesting. Modeling shows that planting trees on less than one percent of Oregon’s land could help capture and store nearly 16 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by 2050, equivalent to taking 3.7 million gas-powered vehicles off the road for a year.
Other headway could be made in developing floating offshore wind turbines to generate clean energy on the Oregon coast, the authors found, though that’s been shelved for the foreseeable future by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management following mounting opposition from some coastal communities and tribes.
Changes in the climate have also led to recent changes in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which shows geographic ranges where plants can survive. In the updated map, many areas in the U.S. and some parts of Oregon have warmed up, and been reclassified as more amenable to crops that previously would have been killed off by frosts. Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, courtesy https://oregoncapital chronicle.com/
Growing berries, fruit trees, roses, and native plants
Berries, fruit trees, roses, and native plants can be grown successfully in Central Oregon (CO). The key is to select varieties suited to local growing conditions and follow recommendations for planting and care.
Amy Jo Detweiler, an Oregon State University Extension horticulturist in CO, has authored four OSU Extension online publications that provide details on:
• Berries: bit.ly/3C5ifAn •Fruit Trees: bit.ly/ 3PKpMYq
• Roses: bit.ly/42kezVQ
• Native Plants: bit.ly/3WrHYdf.
A typical growing season in CO ranges from 70 to 100 days, depending on location, Detweiler said. “Frost can occur at any time of the year in this region, including when plants are flowering or setting fruit, with possible damage to potential crops. Although a plant may grow well, fruit production can
Commentary...
vary from year to year. At lower elevations, the milder climate can increase the chance of a successful fruit crop.”
Some guidelines from the publications can help CO home gardeners and orchardists.
Berries
Many berry crops thrive in CO, especially raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries, currants, and serviceberries, plus cold-hardy, early-season varieties of table grapes, blueberries and blackberries. To improve fruit production select cold-hardy, shortseason varieties; a site with full sun and well-drained soil; and a high spot with good airflow to reduce frost damage.
Fruit trees
The apple tree is the most reliable fruiting tree in CO, followed by hardy Asian pear, European pear, plum, and sour cherry. Peach, apricot, sweet cherry, hardy kiwi,
Writing blind
By Katy Yoder Columnist
I’m writing with my eyes closed. I won’t know if my words are right or jumbled. If fingers are just one key off, it’ll be nothing but indistinguishable gibberish. Writing blind isn’t something new. I started years ago during writing meditations as I asked my inner voice and Christ connection to answer questions I couldn’t answer. It worked, and despite a few pages of gobbledygook, the words still bring peace, calm, and faith in my connection to my Higher Power…. whether found inside or beyond.
My eyes are closed for a different reason this time. A few days ago, I woke to the sensation that my bed had dropped out from under me and the room was turning like the carnival rides I loved as a teen. The light fixture in the center of our bedroom swirled around the ceiling, then the windows became blinking images like slowed down frames in an old movie. I felt nauseous, unmoored, and completely out of control. After falling over trying to do one of my lower back exercises, I knew I needed help. The doctor confirmed my guess; my inner ear system was malfunctioning, making me feel like I was on a boat being pulled into a water vortex, spinning out of control.
As I attempt to right this
and some kinds of nut trees may not bear consistently. To increase fruit production, consider pollination requirements of plants before purchasing, and, to prevent killing bees or other pollinators, do not spray insecticides during bloom. Dwarfing rootstock and semi-dwarf trees produce apples sooner than their standard counterparts, take up less space and are easier to maintain because of their smaller size.
Roses
With attention to planting and care, many types of roses can be grown successfully in CO. Select a rose suited to your area’s USDA hardiness zone, and look for diseaseresistant varieties. Choose a spot that will receive at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily; morning sun is ideal. A site protected from the wind is recommended. Roses prefer moist, well-drained soil. In CO, native soils are predominantly sandy and can
benefit from additions of organic matter.
Native plants Native plants add beauty with colorful flowers, foliage, texture, and scents. If planted in a suitable habitat, they adapt well to CO soils and climate. This reduces the need for supplemental water and maintenance. When grown in the right conditions, native plants experience less environmental, insect, and disease damage than nonnative plants. Native plants
also create the best environments for local pollinators and wildlife. They are minimally invasive when planted in the right environment. The lists of trees, shrubs, grasses, and perennials in the online publication focus on native plants that are readily available from local nurseries and adapt easily to an urban landscape environment. When selecting native plants, choose those whose natural habitat is similar to conditions in your landscape.
sinking ship in my mind, I find that looking at a screen makes me feel woozy and off-balance. For a writer who relies on her computer to capture ideas, stories, and thoughts, it felt like I’d lost my way.
This experience reminds me of how I felt when I heard those awful words, “You have cancer.” In that case, I was facing my possible demise. In this case, until I heal, I’m losing my way to make a living, finish my latest book project, and get thoughts out that demanded “airtime.” Writing blind was the only answer.
So here I am, eyes closed, with the high-pitched hum of the laptop and the clacking of keys as I write hoping my fingers are in the right place.
As I welcome my 64th year in May, I’m reminded that the human body is an amazing miracle. That when it’s working well, it’s my best friend, my vehicle to get places and make things happen. When it malfunctions, like the untethered crystals floating in my ear canal, I’m lost in a circuitous mayhem filling me with uncertainty and dread. When I was in my teens and 20s, I took my strong body for granted; took ridiculous risks in my fast Chevy Step-side pickup, rode my horses too fast, and accepted dares that had me going off cliffs and eventually understanding I could die.
Those kinds of epiphanies were life-changing… but
obviously I need reminding because this latest medical malfunction left me feeling surprised and unsure. Once I got my mental bearings, I remembered to look for the gifts when times are tough. Even in the darkest, saddest times, love is the sun shining through dark clouds. I must have faith that if my fingers are on the wrong keys that’s ok too. That sometimes what I’m thinking and what appears on the page may never come together. That just the act of thinking, and that fleeting moment of clarity, is enough. Here’s the answer… s’;flmore84;] orm;lrm? When I look nothing’s there… nothing I can read anyway.
Answers come when they come. Not when I want them to arrive. All these decades on this blessed, beautiful, and fragile planet have taught me that. Nothing’s guaranteed… no matter how much money is in the bank, how many guns are in the gun safe, or stores in the bunker. If the body stops working and becomes something that feels like an enemy instead of a friend, all that’s left is how the situation is perceived. How I react. What I think. No matter who you are, you don’t get out of this earthly performance alive. It’ll end for each of us in God’s time. I am thankful for the reminder. As a wise man once told me, “All we can do is watch for the blessings and remember to say thank you.”
READ THE NUGGET TO...
•be informed
•connect with community
•hear someone else’s perspective on a topic
• discover local businesses & organizations
•have something fresh to talk to your neighbor about CONTRIBUTE
THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER BY...
• talking about what you’ve read in The Nugget with another person
• sharing your perspective in a Letter to the Editor or opinion column
•becoming a correspondent
•shopping at a local business
•advertising your business
•submitting an original poem
•selling something in the classifieds
• recognizing a good deed done in a “Sisters Salutes”
•buying a subscription for yourself or a family member
•hiring local service professionals
•sending in a great photo of life in Sisters
• being a “supporting contributor” with a one-time or recurring financial gift to support community
Classifieds, Subscriptions, Announcements: Lisa May, lisa@nuggetnews.com
Working together, we spin the threads that connect our community in a rich and colorful tapestry. We appreciate you, Sisters!
Rewards offered in wolf poaching incidents
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) officials announced a $10,000 cash reward for information regarding a wolf poaching incident on private property in Morrow County. The Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) has a standing reward of $10,000 for wolf poaching in that area, raising the reward total to $20,000.
Wildlife officials discovered the carcass of a gray wolf, identified as OR 159, on November 8. The wolf was on private land, about 20 miles south of Heppner, and law enforcement officials were quick to announce rewards for information leading to an arrest or citation in the case. Reporting parties can choose to remain anonymous and may opt for five ODFW hunter preference points instead of cash rewards.
The incident is a reminder that protected species like wolves draw significant interest and corresponding high dollar rewards when they are poached.
Rewards stand at $12,100 or five ODFW hunter preference points for information related to poachers shooting a yearling wolf south of Prairie City in Grant County, on or about May 19, 2024. ODFW biologists and OSP F&W Troopers located the carcass on private property, about 11 miles SE of Prairie City, adjacent to County Road 62. Officials believe the yearling male wolf died between late evening on May 18, and early morning on May 19, after being shot from the roadway. OWC is offering $11,500 and Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) is offering an additional $600.
Rewards stand at $38,700 for information related to the poisoning deaths of three gray wolves and two golden eagles in the Snake
River Wildlife Management Unit and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, about 11 miles northeast of the town of Imnaha.
From February through March 2024, OSP F&W Troopers located the remains of a female gray wolf, a male gray wolf, a juvenile gray wolf, two golden eagles, a cougar, and a coyote in the Lightning Creek drainage, which is a tributary to the Imnaha River. Testing and examinations conducted by the Clark R. Bavin National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory determined all seven animals died from poison.
Wallowa County is located east of Highway 395 where gray wolves are not listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act but are protected by Oregon state law. Eagles are federally protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. USFWS is offering $25,000, OWC is offering $12,500, OHA is offering $1,200, or a reporting party may opt for up to eight ODFW hunter preference points instead of cash for information that leads to an arrest or citation in the case.
Rewards stand at $60,000 for information regarding the deaths of three endangered gray wolves east of Bly in
SOLUTION for puzzle on page 22
Wolves have a growing presence in Oregon, including in Sisters’ backcountry.
southern Oregon. The deaths occurred in an area of known wolf activity, as defined by ODFW, across portions of Klamath and Lake counties.
On December 29, 2023, OSP F&W Troopers and an ODFW biologist discovered three wolf carcasses. The wolves were identified as the adult breeding female OR115 and the subadult OR142 from
the Gearhart Mountain Pack. The third wolf was also a subadult.
Anyone with information about any of these cases should call the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at (503) 6826131, or the Oregon State Police Dispatch at (800) 4527888, or the Turn In Poachers TIP Line at *OSP (*677), or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov.
CITY: Residents can ask questions, provide input
Continued from page 1
Governance; Housing, Livability, and Growth; and Wildfire Mitigation and Community Resiliency.
The Open House will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, at City Hall. The public is encouraged to attend in person to engage directly with City Council members and staff. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, provide input, and discuss key areas of focus on the Council’s upcoming goals. For those who cannot attend in person, written comments are also welcome and can be submitted via email to recorder@ ci.sisters.or.us.
To review current and past Council Goals: https://www. ci.sisters.or.us/citycouncil/ page/council-goals-0.
Telling the stories of spirited people in a spirited place. Adventurous, creative, entrepreneurial, curious, persevering, thriving people expressing their spirit through business, philanthropy, the arts, sports, and more.
Pick up your complimentary copy of Spirit of Central Oregon Magazine at The Nugget Newspaper office or on newsstands throughout Central Oregon. Scan the QR code to read online. To request a copy by mail, call 541-549-9941
ISTOCK.COM//AB PHOTOGRAPHY
SUDOKU
Shelter was to open for deep cold night
the food pantry, SCWS will soon be known as CORE — Community Outreach Emergency.
Sharlene Weed has exited the agency and it is once again under the day-to-day leadership of Luis Blanchard. A new logo and website will be up shortly, and the range of services will expand.
“We’ll have two showers and a laundry,” Blanchard said as The Nugget toured the facility on Trinity Way, known until January as Wellhouse Market. The building houses a large walkin refrigerator and freezer.
It was Friday, and Blanchard and his team were readying for the first night of the shelter being open this winter as temperatures were hitting the threshold of dropping below 20 degrees. Harsh cold continued through the weekend.
CORE also has a clothing closet with donated garments, mostly outerwear some of it new and all of it in excellent condition.
Blanchard heaped praise on local grocers Oliver Lemon’s and Ray’s Food Place for their donations to the pantry. Several other food shops in Sisters contribute
Blanchard heaped praise on local grocers Oliver Lemon’s and Ray’s Food Place for their donations...
baked goods and other food stuffs to the operation.
In total there are six food assistance programs in Sisters. Apart from Kiwanis and CORE, Council on Aging serves seniors with a Meals on Wheels program. Family Kitchen serves meals on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, which is also home for a sitdown lunch for seniors on Tuesdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and Thursday Grab and Go lunch between 12:30 and 1 p.m.
NeighborImpact, a regional provider, runs the Sisters Mobile Pantry the fourth Tuesday of each month from 3 to 4 p.m.
According to Feeding America! one in eight persons in Oregon face hunger; one in six children. 28.2 percent of Oregon households are receiving food assistance from federal programs.
In Deschutes County for 2023, 9.8 percent of the overall population is food insecure, and 13.4 percent of children, according to county reporting.
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:
$3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 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 $3.50 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.
DEADLINE: MONDAY, noon preceding WED. publication. PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. VISA & MasterCard accepted. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four (4) weeks and upon approval of account application.
CATEGORIES:
102 Commercial Rentals
Roughly 900 sq. ft. at 392 E. Main Ave., bottom SW unit. Beautiful sunlight, with a mountain view.
3 rooms: staff room & reception. Call or text 925-588-5956
MINI STORAGE
Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor
RV parking. 7-day access.
Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies.
Executive Office Space
Very nice executive office space for rent in Sisters light industrial park. 224 sq. ft. private office.
Shared restrooms with shower.
Shared conference/kitchen room. Easy parking. All utilities included. Starting at $750 per month. Call 541-549-9631
OFFICE/RETAIL
SPACE FOR RENT
Great location across from Ace Hardware. Several space types available. Call owner Jim Peterson/RE Broker. 503-238-1478
STORAGE WITH BENEFITS
8 x 20 dry box
Fenced yard, RV & trailers
In-town, gated, 24-7 EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com 103 Residential Rentals
CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS
Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792
Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com
PONDEROSA PROPERTIES
–Monthly Rentals Available–Call Debbie at 541-549-2002
Full details, 24 hrs./day, go to: PonderosaProperties.com
Printed list at 178 S. Elm, Sisters Ponderosa Properties LLC
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
– 18155 Hwy. 126 East –SistersForestProducts.com Order Online! 541-410-4509 541-699-7740 205 Garage & Estate Sales Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions! Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths? Locally owned & operated by... Daiya 541-480-2806 Sharie 541-771-1150
Vehicles We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397
Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com
GORDON’S LAST TOUCH Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY
Member Better Business Bureau
• Bonded & Insured • Serving Central Oregon Since 1980 Call 541-549-3008
504 Handyman
3 Sisters Handyman Services
20+ years experience
No job too large or small. Snow removal services available. Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Call Nate 907-748-4100
sistershandyman@gmail.com CCB# 253556
600 Tree Service & Forestry
4 Brothers Tree Service
Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! – TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP –Native / Non-Native Tree
JS Mulching LLC
Forestry mulching, Land clearing. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured 541-401-9589
– All You Need Maintenance –Tree removal, property thinning & clearing, forestry mastication & mulching, stump grinding. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
601 Construction
CASCADE GARAGE DOORS Factory Trained Technicians Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
Custom Homes • Additions
Residential Building Projects Serving Sisters area since 1976 Strictly Quality CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 541-280-9764
John Pierce
New crop. No rain. Barn stored. 3-tie bales. $220-$360/ton. Hwy. 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895 500 Services
Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul! 541-719-8475
• DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279
SMALL Engine REPAIR Lawn Mowers, Chainsaws & Trimmers Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Authorized service center for Stihl, Honda, Ariens/Gravely, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki Engines GEORGE’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE
“A Well Maintained Septic System Protects the Environment” 541-549-2871
NOTARY PUBLIC - LOCAL
Call Cheryl 541-420-7875
Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency Storm Damage Cleanup, Craning & Stump Grinding, Debris Removal. – FOREST MANAGEMENT –Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects!
Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003 ** Free Estimates **
Owner James Hatley & Sons 541-815-2342 4brostrees.com
Licensed, Bonded and Insured CCB-215057
LOLO TREE WORKS
Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services. ISA Certified Arborist
Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638 Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com CCB #240912
TimberStandImprovement.net
Tree Removal & Pruning TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825
jpierce@bendbroadband.com
Pat Burke
LOCALLY OWNED
CRAFTSMAN BUILT CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com
SPURGE COCHRAN BUILDER, INC. General Contractor Building Distinctive, Handcrafted Custom Homes, Additions, Remodels, Cabin Renovations Since ’74 A “Hands-On” Builder Keeping Your Project on Time & On Budget • CCB #96016 To speak to Spurge personally, call 541-815-0523
Custom Homes Additions - Remodels Residential Building Projects Becke William Pierce CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384
Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com
& family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090
Lara’s Construction LLC. CCB#223701
Offering masonry work, fireplaces, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build barbecues, and all types of masonry. Give us a call for a free estimate 541-350-3218
Uncompromising quality. Local and personal. You can trust me. All projects: From new construction to those little projects you don't seem to get to. My team of local subcontractors and I will get it done right, fair, and pain-free so you can make your spouse happy. Call Jared 503-949-9719
INSPIRED CUSTOM HOMES
www.teeharborconstruction.com 541-213-8736 • CCB#75388
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24
Whatever You Want!
Construction & Renovation
ROBINSON & OWEN
Custom Residential Projects
Heavy Construction, Inc.
All your excavation needs
All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448
*General excavation
Earthwood Timberframes
*Site Preparation
• Design & shop fabrication
*Sub-Divisions
• Recycled fir and pine beams
*Road Building
• Mantels and accent timbers
*Sewer and Water Systems
*Underground Utilities
• Sawmill/woodshop services EWDevCoLLC@gmail.com
*Grading
*Sand-Gravel-Rock Licensed • Bonded • Insured
CCB #124327 541-549-1848
604 Heating & Cooling
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com
CCB #195556 541-549-6464
New construction, addition, remodel. Large and small projects. Contact for estimate. Excavation: septic system, site prep, demolition, road and driveway construction. 541-325-3020 sales@gardnercontractingllc.com
605 Painting
EMPIRE PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining
CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
Ridgeline Electric, LLC
Serving all of Central Oregon • Residential
~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620
www.frontier-painting.com
541-588-3088 • CCB #234821
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC. “Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling
• New Construction
• Water Heaters
541-549-4349
~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
Residential and Commercial
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587
Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.
603 Excavation & Trucking
CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com 541-515-8462
BANR Enterprises, LLC
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.
CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com
541-515-8462
Residential & Commercial
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977
www.BANR.net
Full Service Excavation
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
541-549-1472 • CCB #76888
Drainfield
• Minor & Major Septic Repair
– All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, mowing, moss removal, edging, raking, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
• All Septic Needs/Design & Install
General Excavation
701 Domestic Services
• Site Preparation
• Rock & Stump Removal
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
– All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, mowing, moss removal, edging, raking, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
• Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation
• Building Demolition Trucking
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING!
• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water
Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
802 Help Wanted
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24
Whatever You Want!
ROBINSON & OWEN
Heavy Construction, Inc. All your excavation needs
*General excavation
*Site Preparation
*Sub-Divisions
*Road Building
We are Hiring! Join our summer camp culture at Lake Creek Lodge. We're recruiting for: Housekeeping. PT/FT. We are proud to offer flexible schedules and excellent compensation. www.lakecreeklodge.com
*Sewer and Water Systems
*Underground Utilities *Grading *Sand-Gravel-Rock Licensed • Bonded • Insured
13375 SW Forest Service Rd. 1419, Camp Sherman NEED A CHANGE? Use The Nugget's Help
CCB #124327 541-549-1848 604 Heating & Cooling ACTION AIR Heating & Cooling, LLC Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs
701 Domestic Services
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
are Hiring! Join our summer camp culture at Lake Creek Lodge. We're recruiting for: Housekeeping. PT/FT. We are proud to offer flexible schedules and excellent compensation. 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 by noon,
1. A Sisters tourist went closer to a mule deer buck to get a great selfie with him since he’s so friendly. He wasn’t.
2. A pedestrian patted a strange dog on the head to see if it was friendly. It wasn’t.
3. A driver sped up to see if she could beat the train to the crossing. She couldn’t.
4. A man peed on an electric wire to see if it was hot. It was.
5. A business owner cut their advertising to see if they could save money. They didn’t.
CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk Interior/Exterior Painting
Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
A BIG THANK YOU to all the businesses that par tner with The Nugget in providing free distribution! We invite you to swing by any of these locations to pick up your paper and say hello!
Where to pick up your copy of
BBR & CAMP SHERMAN:
• Black Butte R anch General Store
• Black Butte R anch Post Off ice
• Black Butte R anch Welcome Center
• Camp Sherman Post Off ice • Metolius River Lodges
REDMOND & TERREBONNE:
• Bi-Mar t • Oliver Lemon’s Terrebonne • M&W Market
The R anch Market • Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
TUMALO:
• Pisano’s Pizza • Shell Station • Tumalo Coffeehouse T umalo Farmstand • T umalo Feed Co.
SISTERS LOCATIONS:
• Angeline’s Baker y • Bedouin
•Best Western Ponderosa Lodge • Bi-Mar t
• Black Butte Realty Group
• Cabin Creek Home & Style • Cascade Fitness
• Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s
• Central Oregon Eyecare
•Chevron/McDonald’s • Countr y Coffee
• Dair y Queen • Dixie’s • Eurospor ts
• Fika Sisters Coffeehouse • First Interstate Bank
• FivePine Lodge • GrandStay Hotel & Suites
• Habitat Thrif t Store • Hardtails Bar & Grill
• High Camp Taphouse • High Deser t Chocolates
• Hoyt’s Hardware & Building Supply
• Lef t Coast Lodge • Les Schwab Tire Center
• Luckey’s Woodsman • Makin’ it Local
• Mar tolli’s of Sisters • Mid Oregon Credit Union
• Oliver Lemon’s • Paulina Springs Books
• Philadelphia’s Steak & Hoagies
• Ponderosa Proper ties • R ancho Viejo
• Ray’s Food Place • Sinclair Gas Station
• Sisters Ace Hardware • Sisters Apothecar y
• Sisters Ar t Works • Sisters Athletic Club
• Sisters Baker y • Sisters Bunkhouse
• Sisters City Hall • Sisters Coffee Co.
• Sisters Creekside Campg round
• Sisters Dino Market •Sisters Depot
• Sisters Elementar y School
•Sisters Feed & Supply
• Sisters Galler y & Frame Shop
• Sisters High School • Sisters Inn & Suites
• Sisters Librar y • Sisters Liquor Store
• Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
• Sisters Middle School • Sisters Moto
• Sisters Movie House & Café
• Sisters Nails & Spa • Sisters Post Off ice
•Sisters Pumphouse & Countr y Store
• Sisters R anger Station • Sisters Rental
• Sisters Saloon & R anch Grill
• Sisters School Administration Building
• Sisters Senior Living • Sisters Veterinar y Clinic
• Ski Inn Taphouse & Motel • Sno Cap Drive In
• Space Age F uel • Spoons Restaurant
• Sisters Park & Recreation District
• St. Charles Family Care • Suttle Tea
• Takoda’s Restaurant & Lounge
• The Barn in Sisters • The Galler y Restaurant
• The Gallimaufr y • The Nugget Front Porch
• The Pony Express • Three Creeks Brew Pub
• Three Sisters Floral
• Western Title & Escrow Company
• Your Store
If you are not on The Nugget’s distribution list but would like to be, call Lisa at 541-549-9941 or email lisa@nuggetnews.com.