February 2023 Sunriver Scene

Ballots in the mail; closes February 21

SROA NEWS – Keep an eye on your mailbox for your ballot packet on two special ballot measures: a bulk services agreement with TDS for fiber-to-the-home internet and changes to Sunriver’s Consolidated Plan to remove any discriminatory language to comply with Oregon House Bill 2534.

ings to remember

• Ballots must be returned in person or arrive by mail to SROA no later than 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21 to be valid and counted. There is a locked drop box in the foyer of the administration office (57455 Abbot Drive) that is available 24/7.

• Be sure to vote for each measure (both are included on a single ballot). Do not write your name or other information on the ballot or it will be invalid.

• Once you’ve voted, place the ballot into the secrecy envelope and then into the blue return envelope. You must sign the back of the blue envelope or the ballot is considered invalid.

• Only one ballot per property and only one ballot per secrecy envelope. If you own more than one property, each ballot must be returned in the envelope specific to that property.

• Ballots will be counted by members of the Election Committee on Feb. 21 and the results posted later that day in the administration office foyer and on the SROA website.

By Lt. Stephen Lopez, Sunriver Police Department

What do you picture when you visualize the Sunriver Police Department? The hope is one sees the fulfillment of our mission to serve and protect – a uniform and professional image that the community may be proud of.

The Sunriver Police Department continues to evolve to meet the needs of our Sunriver community while recognizing our unique history and departmental image. Many law enforcement professionals share certain artifacts such as

the badge, colors of uniform and rank insignia; however, each individual department and/or agency develops their own unique image forged through departmental culture and community interaction. This branding is critical for both internal cultural growth and to how the department is perceived by the community stakeholders it serves.

Through the hard work of the retired Chief Cory Darling, new Chief Mike Womer, and numerous other staff members, the Sunriver Police Department has reimagined and reenergized

Help keep Sunriver’s dark sky dark

In August 2020, Sunriver became Oregon’s first “Dark Sky Place” designated by the Oregon Chapter of the International Dark Sky Association (IDA). Prineville State Park is second and the only other location within Oregon out of the 201 designated dark sky locations worldwide.

As a community surrounded by national forest, Sunriver’s development was launched in 1968 with a vision to build a community integrated with nature.

Sunriver’s Design Manual of Rules & Procedures requires all residential and commercial buildings follow lighting restrictions in an effort to maintain

night sky views, including:

• No light shall be directed upwards and/or outwards

• Shall not cast light on neighboring property

• Exterior lighting three feet or higher above grade shall be shielded to direct light downward

• Lighting shall not be used for showcasing the building or any other item on the property

• All lighting installations require approval by SROA’s Design Committee. Refer to the Design Manual for additional restrictions related to lighting

its culture and image. The members of the Sunriver Police Department are incredible professionals on par with our regional and national partners. These professionals, and prospective applicants, should be proud of their department and the community they serve. To foster this pride, the Sunriver Police Department has consistently sought to present a professional and uniquely Sunriver Police image. Specific choices have been made to reflect the

Sunriver Police rebranding enhances its identity, culture

PHOTO COURTESY JIM CULPEPPER

SUSAN BERGER PHOTOS

Sunriver Police Chief Mike Womer, left, and Lt. Stephen Lopez with one of the newer patrol cars and a flag to display during events. The department also has new badges, above.

SCENE

FEBRUARY 2023

Volume XLVI, No. 2 57455 Abbot Drive PO Box 3278 Sunriver, OR 97707

OWNER/PUBLISHER Sunriver Owners Association

The SUNRIVER SCENE is the o cial monthly publication of the Sunriver Owners Association, a not-for-pro t Oregon corporation dedicated to: “Maintaining Sunriver as a premier residential and resort community, protecting and enhancing its quality of life, natural environment and property values.”

The Scene is mailed to Sunriver property owners anywhere in the U.S. and available at locations throughout Sunriver and through a paid subscription by mail.

Publication of advertising copy or individuals’ opinions in the Scene does not constitute endorsement by the newspaper, the Sunriver Owners Association or any of its members or board of directors. Each advertiser bears responsibility for claims made on their behalf.

Scene content including stories, advertising and images are copyrighted and cannot be re-published without permission.

CONTACT THE SCENE

Editor | Communications Director Susan Berger 541.585.2937 susanb@srowners.org Communications Coordinator Erin Mohr 541.585.2939 erinm@srowners.org

ADVERTISING 541.593.6068 sunriverscene@srowners.org

CONTACT SROA

541.593.2411 888.284.6639 toll-free email: infosroa@srowners.org www.sunriverowners.org

GENERAL MANAGER

James Lewis jamesl@srowners.org

ASST. GENERAL MANAGER Keith Kessaris keithk@srowners.org

COMMUNICATIONS

SUNRIVER SCENE 541.585.2937

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 541.593.6645

NATURAL RESOURCES 541.593.1522

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 541.585.2903

PUBLIC WORKS 541.593.2483

RECREATION, SHARC & MEMBER SERVICES 541.585.5000

SROA moving to more e-forms

SROA NEWS – In a continued effort to become more sustainable, the Sunriver Owners Association is switching to digital forms that can be filled out and submitted online or via email.

First in line for 2023 is the Recreation Department, which sent out fillable e-forms for SROA’s membership renewals and for those who participate in the Recreation Plus Program.

“We are excited about making the process for these membership programs more efficient and will continue to look at ways to maximize everyone’s time,” said Sean Lawson, longtime SROA employee and newly promoted Member Services Coordinator.

If you accidently overlooked and/or deleted your renewal form, please reach out to memberservices@srowners.org, and we will resend. Membership renewals also can be done online via ActiveNet at www.sunriverowners.org/memberpreference

Thanks to the association’s updated website (launched in 2020), SROA has already implemented numerous electronic forms for things such as RV storage requests, park reservations and tree/ vegetation removal permit requests.

“Our online tree/vegetation permit has definitely streamlined the process and is easier on the owner as they can email their request at any time, any day without a trip into the office,” said Patti Gentiluomo, SROA Natural Resources Director. “As long as they complete the form, it reduces steps previously required and is a much quicker response turnaround. That being said, we’re still happy to assist those who call or stop by in person.”

There is also an online form for owners to easily update their

use or design.

Established in 1988, IDA has led a movement to protect night skies from light pollution. The overarching goal, which revolves around four strategic priorities, is to reduce light pollution and promote responsible outdoor lighting that is beautiful, healthy and functional.

1. Celebrate the night: Increase awareness of the benefits of the night for all living things, and how light pollution is an urgent environmental threat that individuals can help solve.

2. Dark sky protection: Protect exemplary dark skies through our certification program.

3. Lighting where we live: Engage cities and communities in reducing light pollution through responsible lighting

policy and practice.

4. Skyshed restoration: Implement coordinated, intentional and scalable actions to slow, halt and reverse the increasing rate of light pollution.

How you can help

The good news is that light pollution, unlike many other forms of pollution, is reversible and anyone can make a difference. You can start by minimizing the light from your own home at night. This can be accomplished with the following steps:

• Only use lighting when and where it’s needed

• If safety is concern, install motion detector lights and timers

• Properly shield all outdoor lights

• Keep your blinds drawn at night to keep light inside

For more information, visit www.darksky.org

department to increase internal morale and instill pride in the community.

Patrol vehicles: Our police patrol vehicles are a source of departmental image and community pride as it is one of the most visible and unique components of the department.

Over the past few years, the department has been transitioning to a black-colored patrol vehicle. With the arrival of two new patrol vehicles early next year, the community should expect to see the older, white colored vehicles phased out of rotation.

Uniforms: Several years ago, the Sunriver Police Department transitioned to a navy blue uniform and external vest carrier. The origin of the blue police uniform may be debated but, regardless, it has become synonymous with American policing. In addition to the color, the uniform has been modernized. The vest is custom fitted to the officer and the equipment attached to the vest has been updated to meet best practice standards in policing.

The blue uniform and vest readily identify a police officer; however other aspects of the uniform make it uniquely Sunriver. The patch worn on the shoulders has remained and still illustrates our beautiful mountains and waterways. The patch is easily recognized and is a point of pride at the department. Recently, a new relatively

Sunriver uniform component was authorized. You may soon see Sunriver police personnel wearing black western hats when in uniform. In contrast to the campaign style hat commonly worn by the Oregon State Police, the western hat is a nod to Sunriver and fosters a distinctively Sunriver Police Department image.

The badge: The law enforcement badge is arguably one of the most recognized symbols in policing. All sworn police personnel are issued a badge to be worn on their uniform. With the reenergizing of the department, it became obvious that a new department symbol was needed. The badge was designed and issued to the department late last year. This badge pays homage to the department’s history by keeping the star but adds an outer circle and the American and Oregon flags. The result is a badge that is once again familiar, but uniquely Sunriver. This badge has been and will be used on promotional items, recruitment equipment and official correspondence.

Working at the Sunriver Police Department is an honor and a privilege. Those who serve do so with pride in Sunriver and the department. It is hoped that the new image will instill pride in the community and motivate current and future officers for years to come. These small changes will one day become the history of your department and should be shared by all.

www.sunriverowners.org

All Sunriver properties should have received a ballot in the mail by now. There are two issues owners are being asked to vote on: 1) modification of the Sunriver Consolidated Plan to broaden the definition of who can be considered a family member and 2) approval of a bulk internet services agreement with TDS (formerly BendBroadband). I have written about these measures in recent President’s messages but now that it is time to vote, I want to recap the issues behind these measures.

First, let me recap the Sunriver Consolidated Plan ballot measure. Last year the Oregon legislature passed a bill, House Bill 2534 (HB2534), signed into law by the governor, which requires planned communities (such as SROA) to review all governing documents and remove any language that discriminates against traditional protected classes (for example: race; color; religion; sex and sexual orientation; national origin; age; disability; and veteran status). The Oregon legislature also included a phrase in HB2534 identifying a new protected class: “….family members, persons of close affinity or unrelated persons, who are simultaneously occupying a dwelling unit within occupancy limits.”

This definition is broader than the current language in

the Sunriver Consolidated Plan which reads: “Resident of Sunriver shall mean any person who is a unit owner or lessee of a unit in Sunriver, together with members of his immediate family….”

The SROA Board of Directors fully supports this legislative change and has reviewed SROA’s governing documents to ensure compliance with HB2534. Following this review, we identified several amendments to the Consolidated Plan that we believe are consistent with HB2534 and are now asking Sunriver’s owners to vote in favor. Changes to our consolidated plan require approval of 60%+ of all owners who participate in the vote.

Secondly, let me recap the proposed agreement with TDS. This agreement has two parts: a Services Agreement (15 years in duration) and a Bulk Services Addendum (optional, 10 years in duration). The Bulk Services Addendum is what owners are being asked to vote on. If owners approve of the Bulk Services Addendum (60%+ of all owners who vote), SROA General Manager James Lewis will be authorized to execute both the Services Agreement and the Bulk Services Addendum with TDS. Under these agreements, all Sunriver owners will pay $35/month for

300Mbps (up/down) internet service, which includes an inhome Wi-Fi router, whether they use this service or not. The cost of this service (12 x $35/month = $420/year) will be added to the owners annual SROA maintenance dues, 30days after TDS’ fiber-to-thehome (FTTH) services are activated at their home. TDS has committed to completing the FTTH upgrade in Sunriver no later than 36 months after the agreement is signed. Those owners where FTTH services are not available at this time will be able to obtain cablebased 300Mbps/10Mbps internet services from TDS at the bulk rate.

The board has had spirited discussions about these agreements. The majority of board members favor the measure while a significant minority would like to see SROA enter into an agreement which would result in eventual ownership of the telecommunications network (or at least the conduit).

Having been directly involved in the negotiations with TDS, I personally believe this agreement is the best possible agreement we can achieve with TDS. At the same time, I believe this agreement represents the best possible FTTH solution for Sunriver owners, out of all alternatives investigated by the Telecommunications Task Force over the past 3 years.

While I understand some owners would prefer network ownership, enabling different

telecommunication supplier(s), this cannot be achieved without significant investment (approximately $5,000) from each Sunriver owner. Furthermore, the TDS price point ($35/ month for 300Mbps service, fixed for the next 10 years) represents a significant monthly savings for all existing Sunriver TDS internet services customers. Finally, the TDS proposal represents the quickest route for bringing FTTH services to Sunriver.

I am aware of the poor service quality some TDS customers have experienced in Sunriver. I am also aware that the vast majority of Sunriver owners have experienced good service quality. The new agreement, in which TDS will replace their coax cables in Sunriver with fiber, will provide all Sunriver owners with a modern, reliable service. Fiber is not subject to corrosion or radio frequency interference which are major causes of poor service quality with the current network. Our agreement with TDS includes a Service Level Agreement, guaranteeing 99.9% network availability.

Upgrading the Sunriver telecommunications network to FTTH is vitally important to many Sunriver owners. The existing base-level asymmetrical service offered by TDS (300Mbps download/10Mbps upload) no longer meets the needs of residents (some who

Highlights, actions of the SROA Board of Directors monthly meeting

The Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Board of Directors meeting was held Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023.

Board members present: Gerhard Beenen, Bill Burke, Keith Mobley, Scott Gillies, Clark Pederson, Tony De Alicante, Julianna Hayes, Linda Beard and Larry Ishmael.

Staff present: James Lewis, Susan Berger, Jesus Mendoza.

Owner forums

From Jan. 20 work session

• Signa Gibson spoke about the use of the one/two-digit addresses used within Sunriver by SROA versus the five-digit address assigned by Deschutes County and the difficulty that this possess in receiving mail and parcel/package deliveries. She requested SROA look into having mail delivered direct to Sunriver homes rather than

Treasurer report: operating fund sources and

expenditures

By Clark Pederson

Every year in December, you receive the billing for your annual SROA maintenance fees. For 2023 that was $1,844.88 (3% lower for those owners who took advantage of our payment in full by the Jan. 25 deadline). Quite a bargain compared with many other homeowner associations in Oregon. These funds are added to our Operating Fund when received. So, how is that money spent?

For 2023, SROA approved a budget of $13,299,000 in expenditures and $13,191,000 in income. This leaves a deficit of $108,000. Historically we underspend in several areas, and we expect to end the year with a balanced budget.

Of our income, $7,883,000, 60% comes from your owner maintenance fees. Another $5,071,000, 38% comes from the recreation department which includes the sale of Recreation Plus Program and Membership Program cards, Scene advertising, Community Development application fees, rental of SHARC and RV space rental, and a few other small revenue sources. Another $237,000 comes from interest on our cash balances, cable TV right-of-way revenue and late fees and fines.

The above constitutes the income to our operating fund. How is that money spent?

needing a post office.

• Scott Hartung spoke about vacation rentals, complaints/ violations and the Nuisance Rules in place by SROA. He stated that he believes that owners and/or property management companies should be notified when complaints are made against a property and citations are issued so that such issues can be addressed prior to any citation being issued to the owner as a nuisance property. It was explained by staff that this is currently the procedure and no properties have been designated as a nuisance since the rule was put into place.

• Read into record two letters from Laura Miller who feels it is unreasonable for all owners to pay for a fiber-to-the-home internet network, especially for those who may not use it. She also felt the fee for the owner

SROA Financial Report

There was no Finance Committee in January. The December numbers will be provided in the March issue.

recreation access card is too high.

From Jan. 21 regular meeting

• Gunnevi Humphries discussed a variety of issues related to improvements to her property and the design review process – especially as related to the requirement to remove a screen wall and her smallclaims lawsuit against SROA. She requested that the Board make the decision on whether or not to remove/leave the screen wall and not have this be reviewed by the Design Review Committee.

• Randy Schneider asked when the recycling center would be removed with the

implementation of the sideyard recycling service. He noted that those who choose not to utilize the side yard service can take their recycling to the transfer station south of Sunriver.

• Kathy Brown discussed multiple issues, these were: 1) She agreed with the comments made by Signa Gibson at the work session regarding changing the use of the Sunriver one/ two-digit addresses in favor of the Deschutes County fivedigit addresses for ease of mail and package delivery to the home; 2) She spoke about the need for equal enforcement

1) Employee Salaries and Benefits – $5,978,000; 45%: Much of what we do in Sunriver is service oriented. Our Public Works Department is plowing and sanding our roads and pathways, trimming trees and weeding at intersections, picking up monthly stacks of brush and trees trimmed by owners, notifying owners of upcoming paving projects, helping with traffic control on projects, emptying community garbage cans, completing some of our construction projects to save costs versus hiring outside contractors and many other tasks. Our Recreation Department is keeping SHARC and the Member Pool open and provided with lifeguards. Our Community Development department is processing applications and inspecting buildings/ improvements on our homes and checking compliance with standards that make Sunriver the special place it is. The Natural Resources Department

Gerhard Beenen

of CCRs. She does not think that the foreclosure process for non-payment of fees is appropriate; 3) She believes that the board should participate in mediation processes when warranted/required; and 4) She is opposed to the language in SROA governing documents giving the Design Committee sole authority in decision making as stated therein.

Board actions

• Approved minutes of the Dec. 16, 2022 SROA board work session as corrected.

• Approved minutes of the Dec. 17, 2023 SROA regular board meeting as written.

• Approved second reading of Resolution 2022-009 approving changes to the Sunriver Rules & Regulations for compliance with Oregon House Bill 2534 to remove any discriminatory language.

• Approved request from the Nominating Committee for revisions to the SROA Board of Director Candidacy application form.

Committee/board action requests

• The Nominating Committee submitted a revised board candidate application for

is handling Ladder Fuel Reductions on commons, advising owners on their properties, dealing with noxious weeds, among other things.

2) Contribution to our Reserve Fund – $3,803,000; 28%: This was a 5% increase from 2022. The Reserve Fund is separate from the operating fund. This fund is used to replace existing capital items which are nearing or reached the end of their useful life or to fund new items or projects. That budget includes road and pathway paving and repair, $698,170; Ladder Fuel Reduction on common land, $395,000; and an additional pathway tunnel, $500,000. Also, in the coming year plans are to replace the dilapidated fence around the Public Works yard, repaint the exterior of SHARC and its fence, replastering of the SHARC indoor pool, replace Public Works vehicles, contributing to the dredging of the river at the boat launch and a long list of smaller items. We also will be constructing a much-needed new Public Works building

review. The application had not been updated in many years.

Association operations

• Administration: Continue to work on finalizing the draft of the Design Manual. Worked with department heads to conduct staff annual reviews and wage adjustments. Met with the Sunriver Service District on the transition of HR responsibilities from SROA to the district. Attended the SSD/county commissioner joint meeting.

• Accounting : Finalized SROA’s 2023 insurance renewals. Processing annual maintenance fee payments. Accepting and recording payments for 2023 RPP and MPP renewals/ purchases. Finalizing access for owners to access their association account and make payments online.

• Communications: All ballot/vote materials are at the printer and will go in the mail mid-January. Updated websites to reflect 2023 operations/pricing changes.

• Community Development : There are 279 active projects/buildi ng permits. Continue to issue compliance letters for design and rule violations. Application submittals are down from same time last year. Training ongoing for the compliance officer and design review planner, who both con-

to replace the current one housed in an old sewer treatment structure. Funds for this project will dip into the Reserve Fund beyond our current year contribution.

3) Materials and Services –$2,611,000; 20%. This covers things like utility bills, chemicals for the pools, natural gas for heating pools and buildings, cinders for sanding roads, fuel for our fleet of vehicles, cell phones for staff, software and internet costs for staff, printing of the Sunriver Scene and the many other costs of running Sunriver and meeting owner’s desires for services.

4) Insurance and Legal Expenses – $766,000. In 2022, our insurance cost skyrocketed following increases in insurance costs after the 2021 California and Oregon wildfires.

5) Other expenses including Bike Patrol and expensing prepaid dues discounts – $207,000.

It is a large budget carefully constructed by staff with review by the Finance Committee and review and approval by the Board of Directors.

–Clark Pederson is the treasurer of the SROA Board of Directors and chair of the Finance Committee.

tinue to learn at a quick rate.

• Natural Resources: LFR and tree thinning continues on commons as weather allows for backlogged 2022 areas. Marking trees for 2023 LFR contract areas. Attended the Oregon Interagency Noxious Weed Symposium. Completed 2022 Tree City recertification.

• IT: Testing dual factor authentication and continue to work on security training for all staff. Created a demo database for Natural Resources on noxious weeds. Working on the switchover to a new phone system.

• Public Works: Crews conducted eight full plows in December. Prepped and tested the large snow cannon. Purchased a mini excavator. Removed the plastic tubing surface and reworked the tubing hill. Received air filtration units to help mitigate wildfire smoke issues. Working with Anderson Pools to resolve warranty issues at the Member Pool. Working on the PW annex building as it will be used during construction of the new building..

• Recreation/SHARC: 2023 memberships sales are going well. Holiday operations were well received by owners and guests. Held a lifeguard class which resulted in four new lifeguards, two of which were seeking more than just seasonal

hours. Interviewed four candidates for the events manager position.

The meeting adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

The next SROA board work session will take place at 9 a.m. Feb. 17 followed by the regular board meeting at 9 a.m. Satur-

work from home), businesses, SROA, Sunriver Service District and visitors. Symmetrical high-speed, reliable internet service is necessary as all forms of telecommunications (voice, data and video) are now provided as an internet service. Soon, these services will only be available via the internet. This telecommunications network upgrade is necessary to maintain Sunriver as a premier

Forms

contact and emergency information with the association. To date, SROA has received more than 2,500 owner updates electronically.

“Anything we can receive electronically is much more

day, Feb. 18.

To watch the meeting live via YouTube, or at a later time, visit the meeting date on SROA website calendar for the YouTube link. Meeting minutes, once approved, are available on the SROA website at www. sunriverowners.org

residential/resort community. If you need additional information, there are multiple articles, FAQs, survey results, presentations, videos and associated materials on the SROA website Telecommunications page at www.sunriverowners. org/telecommunications

I understand some owners may not agree with me on this issue and that is why I am encouraging all Sunriver owners to take the time to fill out your ballot, and mail/bring it back to SROA no later than 12 p.m. on Feb. 21. Your vote is important.

efficient and lessens the chance of keystroke errors as we can copy/paste the information right from an e-form into our databases,” said Susan Berger, SROA Communications Director. “Next up will be the creation of some project application forms for the Community Development Department.”

35

Sunriver Resort to host inaugural Food & Wine Festival in February

Sunriver Resort is thrilled to announce its inaugural Sunriver Resort Food & Wine Festival, taking place throughout February. The month-long gastronomic celebration will showcase the region’s rich farming and food heritage, along with Executive Chef Josh Hedrick’s unique culinary vision, which emphasizes ingredients from the natural surroundings of Central Oregon and draws inspiration from family campfire gatherings on the frontiers of Oregon’s high desert.

Open to all, from hotel guests to visitors and locals, the festival will offer a wide array of tasting events, cooking classes, live music, shopping, and more, plus feature regional vintners, artisans, farmers, local craft spirits and beers from around Central Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest.

Special stay offerings will be available, including a Valentine’s Day special, and events and programming will take place every day through February.

Check out the complete schedule of events, pricing,

package details and pricing.

Food & Festival Lineup

• Saturday Supper Club: Lodge Kitchen | Every Saturday in February from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Featuring a special themed menu and wine list each week. The dinner includes a fourcourse menu. Cost: $160/ couple. Optional wine pairing for an additional cost of $59/ person. Reservations required.

• Weekend Brunch & Bar

With a View: Lodge Kitchen and Owl’s Nest | Every Saturday and Sunday in February from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Lodge Kitchen) and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Owl’s Nest).

Brunch with a side of sweeping views of the Great Meadow and the Cascade Range, this dining experience in this setting is a must-experience. What makes this even better is the Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar. Reservations are not required. See menu for prices.

• Marketplace Shop, Sip & Dine Events: The Lodge Living Room | Every Saturday and Sunday in February from 10

a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sunriver Resort will transform the living room at The Lodge into a marketplace featuring local makers and regional favorites, including Inspired Leaf Teas, JB Bowls and a special pop-up experience with jewelry maker Oregon Stone on Feb. 18.

• Cooking Classes with the Chef: Lodge Kitchen | Feb. 4 and 25, 3–5 p.m.

Join Executive Chef Josh Hedrick for an immersive chocolate cooking demo featuring Kings Estate Winery. Learn the secrets of making delicious foods where chocolate is a main ingredient. The 90-minute experience includes all ingredients, kitchen essentials, tools and hot chocolate or a glass of Kings Estate wine. Cost: $40 per couple. Capacity is limited to 12 people.

• Super Bowl Watch, Dine & Drink Event: Owl’s Nest | Sunday, Feb. 12 from 9 a.m. to close.

Catch every moment of the game on The Owl’s Nest’s five HD TVs while simultaneously satiating your taste buds and

thirst with food and drink specials, including The Lodge Burger, Smoked Brisket Nachos, Chicken Wings, BBQ Meatballs, Devils on Horseback and more. Fun games and prizes. Free to watch. Reservations are not required.

• 5-Course Prix Fixe Valentine’s Day Dinner & One Night Stay: Lodge Kitchen | Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Celebrate your sweetheart with this special dinner showcasing Chef Josh Hedrick’s most notable dishes. Set to live music and beginning with a champagne toast, the fivecourse menu features fresh, flavorful, locally inspired cuisine. Cost: $99 per person (or $189 per person including one night’s stay) Available Feb. 14 only. Reservations are required and accepted for dining between 5–8:30 p.m.

• Apres Adventure Happy Hour Series: Owl’s Nest | Every Sunday through Thursday in February from 4 to 6 p.m.

A storied spot for aprèsadventure gatherings for more than 50 years, Owl’s Nest will be offering $2 off on all appetizers and well-drinks. Reservations are not required. Prices vary.

• Flights at the Lodge: Every Friday in February from 4 to 6 p.m.

Gather in the main Lodge for craft beer samplings from local breweries. Cascade Lakes Brewing Company, Central Oregon’s only not-for-profit brewery, on Feb. 3, and the award-winning Deschutes Brewery on Feb. 10.

For more information, please visit the Resort’s website at www.sunriverresort.com or call 855-420-8206.

Still time to register for Keg Pull

Memo from your dog: Don’t delay in signing up for the Sunriver Brewing Company K9 Keg Pull on Feb. 4 in The Village at Sunriver.

Sign in and on-site registration is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the races going from noon to 3 p.m., or when the last dog runs. The race fee is $20 per dog, with all the proceeds benefitting the Ronald McDonald House of Oregon and southwest Washington.

Dogs are placed into categories based on their weight and pull an appropriately-sized empty beer can, growler or keg. Owners are encouraged to bring their own harnesses. If you do not have a harness, one can be provided for the race.

Awards will be presented to “Fast as Lightning Fido” in each weight category. Dog owners are encouraged to participate by motivating their dog down the length of the course, a 120-foot snow runway.

Registration will guarantee your dog a spot in the race at www. villageatsunriver.com

An awards ceremony will take place at the end of the race. Participants and spectators also are encouraged to donate dog food and enter to win some great prizes. The dog food will be donated to the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

Make plans at the gallery for Valentine’s Day

By Deni Porter

Looking for the perfect place to purchase a Valentine gift for your special someone? Artists’ Gallery in The Village at Sunriver is a wonderful solution.

Invite your Valentine to the gallery’s Second Saturday celebration 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11.

Enjoy delicious appetizers and a glass of wine or beer while you stroll around the gallery

Submit for the Sunriver Art Fair

The Sunriver Art Fair is a nationally recognized, juried fine arts and crafts event which has been well attended by both Sunriver and Central Oregon residents for more than 13 years.

Artists interested in participating can apply at www.sun riverartfair.org/info-forartists. The application deadline is March 4.

The event will be held Aug. 11-13 in The Village at Sunriver featuring unique, one-of-a-kind art, directly from the artists in a vibrant open air venue.

Presented by the Sunriver Women’s Club, all net proceeds go to support nonprofit groups providing services in south Deschutes County through community grants.

For more information, visit www.sunriverartfair. org

Spring fling dance and classes

Ditch the snow boots and dust off your dancing shoes. The clock is rolling backwards for a night to dance to your favorite ’60s and ’70s music during a spring fling dance at SHARC.

Brought to you by SROA’s Owner Enrichment Committee, the dance will be 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 24 at Benham Hall. There will be a DJ, dancing and no host bar. As a special treat, DJ and dance instructor Travis will give a short refresher on swing dance. The cost is $20/person. The event is limited to 150 guests.

Whether you want to bring back your dance moves or just sit and tap your toes or sing along, come enjoy a variety of ageless tunes. Singles and couples are welcome.

For those needing a dance tune up, there will be a series of three lessons to learn East Coast swing at SHARC on Fridays, March 3, 10 and 17 from 4 to 4:50 p.m. Lessons are provided by Dance with Travis, who was taught and trained through the Fred Astaire System and has been dancing, competing and teaching since 1995. He is owner of Dance with Travis Dance Studio in Bend.

Whether you’re a beginner, just need a refresher, or would like to learn a few new moves, consider signing up for these lessons. Couples and singles are welcome. The cost for the series is $35 per person. Space is limited to 30 people. You must sign up for the whole series and payment in advance is required.

Registration for both events

Upcoming Sunriver You classes

By Helen Heeren

Our upcoming classes aren’t repeats, but they are all from repeat presenters. Tech Forum is our continuing series about all thing’s techie. We are fortunate to have Michael Klinkerfues back to explain the differences between MAC, PC and Androids and to demystify ways of backing up your devices. We welcome back Skip Smith for part two of The “Lost” Wagon Train of 1853. He will be picking up the story from when they left Sunriver. The History of SHARC, which had to be cancelled in December, is back on the schedule in March. Last but not least, we also welcome back Klamath Tribal member Abby Hall. In her riveting and moving class in November about the Indigenous people

who first called Central Oregon home, she touched on the importance of the Klamath River. She will be speaking about this in more detail in Water is Life – The Importance of the Klamath River as Viewed Through an Indigenous Lens. Class descriptions follow. All classes require registration through www.sunriveryou. com. Registration closes 24 hours before the class start time. Please plan ahead, and sign up before the deadline if you want to attend a class

Tech Forum 7 Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 3 p.m. in person at SHARC. Presented by Michael Klinkerfues who works for COCC as the Network Team Manager.

What are the differences be-

will be first come, first served based on the receipt of your payment. The deadline for dance lesson registration is Feb. 17. Registration for the dance is by March 17. If you are interested in attending either or both dance opportunities, email welcomespringfling@ gmail.com the name(s) of those to be registered and you will be forwarded a registration form and payment details. Start looking for those dancing shoes to celebrate the beginning of spring.

For questions regarding the dance lessons call Travis at 541-62DANCE (541-6232623). Email welcomespring fling@gmail.com for questions regarding registration.

The Owner Enrichment Committee (OEC) is a standing committee that assists the SROA Board, staff and the

tween a Mac, PC and Android? Most of us feel comfortable with the one we currently use and wouldn’t switch without a very good reason. Are there advantages and disadvantages of one vs the other that should make us reconsider? Is it difficult to switch systems and learn a new one? No matter which type of computer/device you use, it should be backed up on a regular basis. Klinkerfues will discuss the differences between various types of data storage for backing up devices.

e History of the “Lost” Wagon Train of 1853, Part 2 Wednesday, March 1 at 3 p.m. in person at the Sunriver Library. Presented by Sunriver resident Skip Smith. In part 1, the “lost” wagon train made it as far as Sunriver. They had encountered many

Welcome Spring Fling

Dance classes

Fridays, March 3, 10 & 17, 4 p.m. at SHARC $35 per person, registration required

Welcome Spring Fling Dance Friday, March 24, 7-9 p.m. at SHARC $20 per person, registration required

Registration: welcomespringfling@gmail.com

association with developing, promoting and evaluating programs and activities of a

trials and tribulations on an unproven “shortcut,” Elliot’s Cutoff, crossing Oregon’s desert country. While passing through Sunriver, they rested and watered their thousands of animals. Part 2 is the story of the first wagons to cross the Central Oregon Cascades as they continued from Sunriver. They believed they were travelling on a road “developed” by settlers in the central Willamette Valley to bring more pioneers to their area. To their dismay, the trees had been felled for the road, but not cleared. The going was difficult and winter had settled over the Cascades. Come hear the whole story derived from journals and oral histories.

Learn the History of SHARC

Thursday, March 16 at 3

social, educational, cultural and/or recreational nature for the benefit of all SROA owners.

p.m. in person at SHARC. Presented by Sunriver resident John Salzer.

In February 2020, we had a very well-attended in-person class on the “History of the First 50 Years of Sunriver.” During COVID, Salzer presented three more lectures via Zoom that broke that time period down into smaller increments (these are available for viewing on the Sunriver You YouTube Channel). Now we are ready to dive even deeper and discover how SHARC went from an idea to reality. Salzer was intimately involved in leading the community’s effort to create, design and build SHARC and will share his unique insider’s knowledge. Stay for cake and celebrate SHARC’s 10+ year anniversary.

Hunter Noack offers fundraising program

Hunter Noack will present a special piano program on behalf of the church’s Partnership in Education Scholarship Program on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. in the new Sunriver Christian Fellowship sanctuary.

This event will assist in the ongoing efforts of Sunriver Christian Fellowship (SCF) to offer scholarships to young people who attended Three Rivers School, graduated from one of the BendLa Pine School District’s high schools, and are seeking higher education opportunities.

Noack grew up in Sunriver and attended Three Rivers School. He studied piano with teachers Jodie Bischof and Patti Petersen, graduated from the Interlochen Arts Academy, received his bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance from USC, and received his master’s degree from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.

According to Noack’s website, “In 2016, he founded ‘In A Landscape: Classical Music in the

Activities

Water is Life – e

Importance of the Klamath River as Viewed rough an Indigenous Lens Thursday, March 23 at 4 p.m. in person at SHARC. Presented by Gabriann “Abby” Hall.

This is a joint presentation by Sunriver You and the Deschutes Public Library. This will be a

Wild’ – a nonprofit outdoor concert series where America’s most stunning landscapes replace the traditional concert hall… he travels to State and National Parks, urban greenspaces, working ranches, farms and historical sites for classical music concerts that connect people with each landscape.”

Noack’s mother, Lori, was the executive director of the Sunriver Music Festival for several years. She was responsible for coordinating the festival’s fundraising effort to purchase its own Steinway grand piano that SCF is privileged to house and utilize for worship services and other events.

A donation to the scholarship program from $10-$25 is suggested and can be received at the door. Due to limited seating, reservations are required. Call or email SCF (sunrivercf@ gmail.com or 541-593-1183). The church is at 18139 Cottonwood Road, next the Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

discussion of the role of water in tribal life with a specific emphasis on the Klamath River. Hall will discuss the Tribes traditionally located along the Klamath River as well as the cultural, political and spiritual importance of water in the past, present, and future. Hall is an enrolled member of the Klamath Tribes and volunteers with the Tribe on education-related issues. She went to Oregon State University, where she received a Bachelor of Science

in ethnic studies, a Master of Arts in interdisciplinary studies, and later a Master of Arts in teaching. She currently resides in Central Oregon and teaches ethnic studies and Native studies at Central Oregon Community College. Teaching diverse history is a passion of hers. She believes that understanding the impacts of the past on the present is instrumental to successfully navigating the world today.

Board candidate search underway

By Tony Selle, Nominating Committee Member

Are you looking for a chance to serve your Sunriver community in a meaningful way? Want to dust off your skills and get to know and work with other talented Sunriver owners? The SROA Nominating Committee invites you to run for the SROA Board of Directors.

There are three director positions open in 2023, each is a three year term. While the incumbents in these positions have the option to run for re-election, the Nominating Committee encourages all Sunriver property owners –both resident and nonresident – to consider serving this great community by running for the SROA Board of Directors

Now is a great time to express your interest in becoming a candidate for the SROA Board of Directors August 2023 election.

There are two ways to get your name on the ballot:

1. APPLY: Pick up a Board Candidate Application packet, fill out the required forms and return them to the SROA office. The Nominating Committee will review your submitted material and set up a

Contact a Nominating Committee Member

• Holly Hendricks, chair doubleheche@gmail.com

• Steve Aloia smc1970@earthlink.net

• Michael Applegate sunrivermike@gmail.com

• Ron Angell

ron.angell42@gmail.com

• Mike Gocke mike-g123@msn.com

• Carol Holzer carolholzer@aol.com

• Tony Selle avfan1960@gmail.com

• Kellie Allen kelliea@srowners.org

later time for an interview. The deadline to submit your application packet is March 17. Packets are available at the SROA office, 57455 Abbot Drive. You are welcome to stop by to pick up/drop off forms or call 541-593-2411 to have the forms mailed to you. You can also go online at www. sunriverowners.org/owners/ get-involved to download the T  C,  

Sleeping ’til spring

By Lily Pifferini-Carter

For many people, wintertime is synonymous with snowy outdoor activities, warm cocoa, time spent with loved ones and arguably far too many baked goods.

If you are like me amidst these short daylight hours, you may find yourself wishing to hibernate. Relating to Mr. Badger in “The Wind in the Willows,” I find myself seeking solitude by reading near the fireplace. Like the woodland characters of Grahame’s beloved novel, humans have developed ways of dealing with the cold, dark

winter months.

But how do local animals adapt to winter conditions?

Many of Central Oregon’s animals tough it out, growing a thicker coat and adapting other methods of procuring food in a frozen and snowy environment. Yet, others change their behavioral and physiological states to a period of dormancy.

Species living in colder climates respond to unforgiving climatic conditions and less food availability during the winter months by spending it in a state known as torpor. While adaptations vary widely

for each species, torpor is defined as a period of inactivity and a lowering of an organism’s metabolic rate in response to environmental stimuli. Torpor can last for a few hours, multiple days, an entire season or even several years. Hibernation is a long-term form of tor por, in which organ isms will spend the entire winter in a state of dormancy to wait out cold conditions. To hibernate, the animal needs to have a suitable amount of body fat, which will be slowly metabolized, keeping the animal alive.

Probably the most widespread example of an animal that hibernates is the bear. So, is this true? Well, despite what your kindergarten teacher may have told you, the answer is – sort of. Black bears (Ursus americanus), currently the only species of bear found in Oregon, are not considered true hibernators. During the winter, bears do not need to eat or drink water, and they have

strong evolutionary instincts to stay in their dens, but they do not sleep the entire time. Under certain circumstances, they will leave their den if it is damaged, or they are disturbed. However, they are often in a state of torpor, their heart rates dropping by half, and their body temperatures lowering by 7 to 8 degrees.

True hibernators in this region include our many species of frogs and toads, some burrow into the ground, seek out natural crevices in logs or rocks and others hibernate at the bottom of ponds. Some individuals actually freeze solid, and their high concentrations of glucose protect their vital organs until spring comes. Female bumblebees undergo a lonesome slumber. Unlike their European honeybee cousins, North American bumblebees

do not store food, therefore, all of the other bees in the colony, except a young new queen, die off in cold fall conditions. The lone queen will then hibernate in the ground, living off of energy stores. After winter’s end, she will emerge and start her colony anew.

Like many small mammals, Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) does not spend its winters alone. When winter temperatures reach below 50 degrees, the bats will retreat to their caves to hibernation. Colonies can consist of up to 100 bats, all sleeping together upside down with their big ears tucked behind their back. During their hibernation, breathing is imperceptible, their heart rate drops from 400 to about 25 beats per minute, and body temperature drops to just barely above the air temperature of the cave. This near cryostasis results in low oxygen content and lactic acid buildup in the big-eared bat’s body. This may cause the bat to briefly wake up, fly around to get their

Over 100 Sales in 2022

Thank you to Central Oregon’s brokerage community and our newest homeowners for making 2022 a milestone year at Caldera Springs — featuring over 100 real estate sales, the launch of Forestbrook vacation homes and the unveiling of Forest House, our forthcoming recreation space and centerpiece of the community’s 600-acre expansion.

Museum displays indigenous art

For many Native American communities throughout the High Desert, what constitutes art is a part of the continuation of Native traditions.

The Creations of Spirit exhibit at the High Desert Museum will immerse visitors in the Indigenous Plateau worldview, reflecting knowledge systems of tribes along the Columbia River and its tributaries.

Six Native artists commissioned for this new, original exhibition created artwork that was used in Native communities before arriving at the museum. A seventh artist has created an interactive piece for the center of the gallery.

Creations of Spirit will be a one-of-a-kind, celebratory experience featuring the stories of these living works of art.

Videos, audio and large projections will immerse visitors in the landscapes and communities in which these objects are used, highlighting the theme of artwork as alive, full of stories and created for specific purposes and people. The original works will be supplemented with pieces on loan from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.

“The works offered by these

Sleeping

blood going and replenish the oxygen in its body. Then, they will fall right back to a restful, dangling sleep.

While there is still much neurological research to be done around hibernation, we have identified that it is caused

deeply gifted and knowledgeable artists will be used in their communities to teach and share traditions,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “And the objects will continue to be available to Native communities to use even after Creations of Spirit closes as part of the museum’s collection. We plan for community members to continue to access these objects.”

The artists in Creations of Spirit have roots throughout the Plateau region.

Acclaimed artist Joe Feddersen (Colville) has created a basket that will be used to harvest roots in the spring. The contemporary sculptor, basket weaver, painter, photographer and mixed-media artist is well known for geometric patterns reflective of what is found in the environment, landscape and his Native American heritage. Feddersen is a member of the Colville Confederated Tribal Arts and Humanities Board. In 2001, he received the Eiteljorg Fellowship for Native American Fine Art award and is one of six Indigenous artists to be featured in the 2023 Renwick Gallery Invitational

by a molecule called adenosine.

Adenosine is produced by all animals and induces torpor by attaching itself to receptors in the brain, causing animals to feel sleepy. So, if you find yourself wishing you could sleep through winter, remember you can counteract the drowsy feelings from adenosine with a nice cup of coffee.

Nature center announces new resident

After reviewing hundreds of name submissions, the Sunriver Nature Center wildlife staff chose “Stevie” as the name for their newest resident raptor – a barn owl. The name has Greek origins and is derived from the verb meaning “to encircle or wreath,” making one think of the beautiful circle of feathers wreathing her dark eyes and delicate beak.

Visitors can see Stevie at the Nature Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

enjoying the artwork of more than 35 local artists.

Seeing your Valentine’s reactions to the artwork will provide you with the clues to

Local flare showcased at Betty Gray Gallery

By Jim Fister

The Betty Gray Gallery at the Sunriver Lodge has featured many artists during its history. Two returning artists have combined their talents in a show to feature their new works that uniquely capture the spirit of Central Oregon.

Bill Hamilton credits his passion for art as a precious gift from God. Hamilton has been perfecting his craft for decades, bringing in techniques from his former career as a technical illustrator and finding constant

know what to purchase on a later visit to the gallery. The artists will be happy to gift wrap your special gift.

This month, the gallery is featuring the art of two artists that could be the source of your best Valentine purchase yet.

Glass enamel artist Cheryl Chapman is a fantastic painter. But she doesn’t just paint on paper. That would be too dull. Her work is done on glass, painting in a reverse process. Each unique piece of art starts with an original drawing and then enamel painting and kiln firings are alternated as many as five times. When you look at the final piece, you are re-

ally looking at the final image through the glass that it was painted on. As if that isn’t enough, each piece reflects Chapman’s love for animals and nature. Her enamel glass pieces range from jewelry to delicate glass containers, wall art and much more. Chapman will be demonstrating her artistic talent on Feb. 11 at the Second Saturday celebration.

A potter, Peter Roussel uses his ceramic pieces as a blank canvas. Each piece starts with traditional hand throwing on the potter’s wheel and ends with one of many alternative firing techniques (raku, pit, sagger, smoke). The whole process is exciting and full of surprises. Pieces are large and small, vessel or plate and colorful. These pots are for decorative use indoors. They look great as they are or with dried arrangements.

The Artists’ Gallery is building 19 in The Village at Sunriver. For information, visit www.ArtistsGallerySunriver. com or call 541-593-4382.

innovation through repetition. He paints in oil, acrylic and watercolor based on subject matter.

Hamilton has been a fulltime artist since 1993. His artwork is in several galleries in Oregon and California. His attention to detail is well-known, and it shows in both his large and small-format works.

Bonnie Junell features her work throughout Oregon, Washington and Florida. She is an expressive realist and impressionist painter. Her work

conveys mood and emotion through her texture and color. She can express complex subjects in simple form with her oil and acrylic works.

Junell grew up in a family of artists, who nurtured her love of art early in her life. She has been painting full-time since 2005.

Both artists work in images around them. The gallery show features many natural scenes from the area, and visitors will get a new look at familiar topics. Make sure to visit and see these works.

Located inside the Sunriver Resort Lodge, the gallery is open daily for viewing.

Candidate

forms.

2. PETITION : Get 100 property owners (one signature per property allowed) to sign your Petition for Candidacy form and submit it to the SROA office. Petition for Candidacy forms are available at the SROA office. The deadline to submit your petition is April 14.

Contact a current nominating committee member or email at nominating@srown ers.org to express your interest and/or find out more about the duties and the steps to becoming a candidate.

Candidacy dates to remember

• March 17: Candidacy application deadline

• April 14: Candiacy by Petition deadline

• April 15: Slate of board candidates announced at SROA Board of Directors meeting

• May, June, July Scenes: Candidates announced, bios and candidate questionaire

• Mid-July: Election ballots mailed to each property

• August 12: Election closes at 12 p.m., winners announced later that day

Artwork by Cheryl Chapman.

Painting by Bonnie Junell.

FEBRUARY MEETINGS & GATHERINGS

Dates/times

SROA Committees

Contact the chair if you have questions about a committee or the projects they are currently working on

SROA

Board of Directors

Gerhard Beenen, president sroaboard@srowners.org

Covenants

Patty Smith covenants@srowners.org

Design

Curt Wolf, chair designinfo@srowners.org

Election

Patty Smith, chair election@srowners.org

Finance

Clark Pederson, chair finance@srowners.org

Nominating Holly Hendricks, chair nominating@srowners.org

Owner Enrichment

Mark Fisler, chair ownerenrichment@srowners.org

Group Gatherings

Monday

Ladies Lunch and Bridge

11 a.m. Grille at Crosswater. Sign up: srmondaybridge@gmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Pozzi building at the Sunriver Nature Center

Tuesday

Mountain Meadow Quilters 1 p.m. second Tuesday of the month at Community Bible Church Info: 302-378-8446

Partners Bridge

3 p.m., Crescent room at SHARC. $1, register/info: 541-556-6408

Wednesday

Sunriver Rotary

7:30 a.m., Hearth Room at the Sunriver Lodge www.sunriver-lapinerotary.org

Great Decisions

4-6 p.m. third Wednesday of the month, Crescent room at SHARC. Info: 503-292-0133

Sunriver Republicans 5:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month. 20 Maury Mtn. Lane

Thursday

Duplicate Bridge 3 p.m., First, second, fourth & fifth Thursday, Crescent room at SHARC. $1, register/info: 541-556-6408

Contact the chair person for a particular committee or to be on a task force/special project contact Becki Sylvester at SROA by calling 541-593-2411.

AREACHURCHSERVICES

Holy Trinity Catholic Mass: 9:30am Thurs.; 5:30pm Sat.; 8am Sun. 18143 Cottonwood Road 541-593-5990, 541-536-3571 www.holyredeemerparish.net Fr. Paul Antao, SDB

Community Bible Church at Sunriver

10am Sunday 57175 Theater Drive 541-593-8341 www.cbcsunriver.org

Pastor: Jeff Welch

Sunriver Christian Fellowship

10am Sunday 18139 Cottonwood Road. Episcopal & Lutheran traditions. 541-593-1183

www.sunriverchristianfellowship.org

Pastor: Nancy Green

The Door at Three Rivers

10am Sundays 86885 Enterprise Drive (Bus. Park) 541-550-3088 www.thedoor3r.org

Pastor: Brent Maxwell

Interested in joining a committee or participating in a future task force or special project?

Remodel begins at La Pine Library; temporary library to open

After six years of planning and meeting with thousands of community members, the La Pine Library is about to undergo a remodel to bring the building and its resources into the 21st century.

The La Pine Library is now closed while a temporary space is being readied for occupancy. The updated and remodeled La Pine Library is scheduled to reopen in the fall.

A temporary library will open in late February in the John C. Johnson building, located across the parking lot from the library (16405B 1st Street, La Pine). The library staff ask customers to hold their returns during the transition period or return them to the Sunriver Library, 56855 Venture Lane or any Deschutes Public Library.

“Library staff have worked hard to make the transition as smooth as possible,” said Library Director Todd Dunkelberg. “I’m glad we can offer this temporary location during remodeling.”

No late fees will be charged for materials held during the transition period and holds will be available once the temporary space opens. You can learn more about the new library and get updates at www.deschuteslibrary.org/futurelibraries/lapine/

Updates to the La Pine Library include bright and open spaces that welcome customers with amenities such as flexible meeting and tutoring rooms, an enhanced children’s discovery space, improved lighting, a fireplace and reading area and a large community gathering space.

In November 2020, Deschutes County voters supported the library’s bond measure to expand and improve libraries across the county. In addition to building a new library in Redmond and updating the La Pine Library, bond funds are being used to remodel and update existing libraries in Sunriver, Downtown Bend and Sisters, as well as a new library at Stevens Ranch in east Bend to serve all Deschutes County residents.

Find more information about the bond and library enhancements at www.deschuteslibrary.org/futurelibraries

Museum

Renwick Gallery Invitational at the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. RYAN! Feddersen (Colville) is a well-known regional artist working on the art piece for the center of the Creations of Spirit gallery. Feddersen grew up in Wenatchee, Wash., and is now based in Tacoma. Her visual artwork utilizes metaphor, history, Plateau storytelling and pop culture influences. Her large-scale pieces have been shown at the Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Art & History Santa Cruz, Burke Museum and Portland Art Museum.

Natalie Kirk (Warm Springs) wove two baskets that will be used to educate youth through schools and community programs. Kirk considers herself a contemporary weaver who has shown her artwork at the Museum of Contemporary Craft in partnership with the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland.

H’Klumaiyat Roberta Joy Kirk (Wasco, Warm Springs, Diné) created regalia for young women to wear during special

ceremonies. Kirk has spent her life sewing and beading since her family lost priceless family heirlooms in a house fire as a young girl. She passes down the intricate art of Plateau beadwork through classes and mentoring. Kirk was a recipient of the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award.

Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D., (Cayuse, Nez Perce) produced traditional Plateau flutes that he will play to help teach others about this culturally significant instrument. Cash Cash is an artist, writer, endangered language advocate and linguistic anthropology scholar. As a fluent Nez Perce speaker, he works with communities and professional organizations on projects of cultural advocacy, identity and communication. He is a co-founder of the Indigenous artist and writer collective luk’upsiimey/North Star Collective. Cash Cash serves on the board of the Endangered Language Fund and the Native Voices Endowment.

Jefferson Greene (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs) constructed a tule reed canoe and paddles that will be used by Native youth in continu-

ing important cultural traditions. Greene is an executive at the Columbia River Institute for Indigenous Development Foundation and an Ichishkiin language instructor. Greene is also an artist who offers classes to students, kindergarten to professional level in language, arts, sports, health and spiritual education.

Kelli Palmer (Wasco, Warm Springs) created a traditional corn husk hat known as a Patłapa. Palmer grew up on the Warm Springs Reservation. When at a Northwest Native American Basketweavers Association gathering, Palmer’s mother tricked her into walking around the room. Palmer ended up sitting down in her first class, and she’s been weaving ever since. She now teaches basketry classes throughout Oregon and Washington. Among her numerous awards, she received Best in Show at the Tribal Member Art Show in Warm Springs in 2009 and Honorable Mention in 2011.

The original exhibit will be open at the High Desert Museum through Oct. 1. Learn more at highdesertmuseum. org/creations-of-spirit

Natalie Kirk (Warm Springs) shows off one of two baskets she created for the High Desert Museum’s exhibit.

Celebrate Art Meets Wine in the High Desert in May

Celebrate Oregon Wine Month by attending the fifth annual Art Meets Wine in the High Desert, May 15 to May 20. It’s a week-long adventure exploring Oregon wines.

The week starts with a virtual cooking class taught by Kasia Wilson, the cheesemonger at the Bend Market of Choice.

Three winemakers will offer their own unique virtual wine tasting while sharing their story on their wine and wine making techniques.

Experience three of their wines and cook several of their wine pairing suggestions in the comfort of your home with your friends.

The grand finale is the “live” event (two sessions) at SHARC in Sunriver on May 20. This is a “kickoff to summer” event and not to be missed if you like great wine, food and entertainment.

Ten carefully selected winemakers and ambassadors representing different Oregon viticulture areas will offer tastes of their unique wines to tantalize your palate.

As a compliment to the wines, enjoy some great food pairings from La Paella, Hot Lava Bakery and more. The Artists’ Gallery Sunriver will offer live art demonstrations for a personal encounter with the artists, as well as a pop-up shop with special pieces created just for this event.

Guests will be able to browse and bid on all auction items

Art Meets Wine in the High Desert

May 15 to May 20

Ticket sales begin March 1.

Visit ArtMeetsWine.org to learn more and for tickets.

being offered in the online auction including art, wine, wine packages, travel, outdoor experiences and more.

Enjoy great music by Wil Kinky.

Tickets go on sale March 1. Ticket sales for virtual events close on May 1.

Ticket sales for the all-inclusive live event on May 20, will be sold until the limit is reached

SRWC February luncheon

The Sunriver Women’s Club offers year-round programs with a variety of ways to connect with other women for fun and enriching activities.

There are happy hours, coffee meet & greets, book clubs, luncheons and various outdoor winter fun activities.

Engaging with each other and the community makes Sunriver a special place.

Visit the website for details on current programs and events, www.sunriverwomensclub.org.

for the two sessions.

“It is a great opportunity for community members and beyond to get together, enjoy wine and friendship while caring for our community by supporting the Sunriver Women’s Club philanthropy program,” said SRWC president Debbie Baker.

Visit ArtMeetsWine.org to learn more.

Programs: This month, the club’s Val Stensland will speak to the membership about the factors that led the philanthropy program to choose education as the focus of the club’s 50th anniversary project. She will share information about the state of children and families in south Deschutes County, the opportunity gaps that exist and will show the power of mentoring and out of school time programs in positively influencing educational outcomes for children.

The Feb. 21 luncheon will be held at the Grille at Crosswater.

Registration is required via the club website at www.sun riverwomensclub.org and click on the calendar date.

SELLERS, TIME TO USE

HELPING YOU NAVIGATE A CHANGING MARKET

The housing market is rapidly changing and mortgage rates, home values, and inventory are top of mind for buyers and sellers alike. You probably have questions about what your best move is if you’re thinking of buying or selling in the coming months. To help make an informed decision, you need the latest information for what is happening in the Sunriver area market and beyond. I welcome the opportunity to connect with you and discuss the market data, your real estate objectives, and how we can craft a strategy to meet your goals. I will provide the information you need to proceed with confidence when the time is right for you. Principal Broker, GRI 541.480.1142

With housing demand likely to remain strong into 2022, this is an ideal time for sellers to use their greatest strength, leverage. Due to low inventory, many buyers are willing to take on

Fly-Tying Corner: Wally Wing Callibaetis

By Phil Fischer

For this month’s pattern, I am celebrating the art of fly tying through a modern and classic tie of the Wally Wing Callibaetis. The wing style was originated by Wally Lutz of Alberta, Canada. I like it because the wing has graceful and elegant lines and brings back me to my roots of fly-tying. One of the reasons I tie flies is to fish with them and catch fish with something I created. But equally, I tie flies for the art and beauty of fly tying. Over time, fly tiers have created an endless array of unique and beautiful techniques that catch fish, and may hang on the wall as a unique piece of art. The Wally Wing Callibaetis fits in nicely with the artful side of this craft. But it catches trout, too.

I’ve used a couple unique techniques in tying this pattern.

The first are the Wally Wings themselves. This style of wing is a relatively easy technique once practiced a few times.

Watch the video at the link at the end of the materials list and I think you’ll see that the appearance of difficulty in these wings is overshadowed by their simplicity. A second technique I used is the method in which the hackle is prepared and tied onto the fly. I’ve stripped one side of the saddle hackle clean and tied it with the barbs on the opposite side. I generally only use this technique when I’m reaching to tie a fly with very clean hackle lines; perhaps one I’ll gift to a very good friend or mount in a picture frame destined to hang on the wall. When fishing, the fish don’t discern the difference between a neatly tied fly and one that leans towards being sloppy. So,

I don’t use this technique on most of my fishing flies. But I know next season, a few of those nice rainbow trout in East Lake might gain an appreciation for this artist’s impression of a callibaetis mayfly floating on the lake’s surface.

Try tying this pattern on your vise and fish it during the callibaetis hatches on our local lakes to imitate these mayflies next spring and summer. I think you’ll like it, and you may even hang your best version in a frame on the wall.

If you have questions or would like additional information about the Wally Wing Callibaetis fly pattern, please don’t hesitate to email me. Or, if you have suggestions on future patterns to feature in this column, I welcome your input. I can be reached at Philfischer@ sbcglobal.net

Wally Wing Callibaetis Materials List

Hook: Firehole Competition barbless 419, size 12-18

Thread: 16/0 Veevus black or gray thread

Tail: Whiting coq de leon spade hackle – natural pardo, or dun microfibbets

Abdomen: Spirit River natural turkey wing feather dyed callibaetis

Thorax: Blend light olive superfine callibaetis dubbing (75%), UV callibaetis (25%)

Wing: Whiting natural guinea hackle

Hackle: Whiting dry fly saddle, unique variant

Tying instructions and steps are being published in video form, and can be found on the Sunriver Anglers Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SunriverAnglers/, or on YouTube at https://youtu.be/V_dsw278PJE

Anglers hold Pie and Tie event

By Chris Powers

The Sunriver Anglers held their annual “Pie and Tie” event in February. The return of this event brought a social gathering of members, spouses and family together with select fly tying experts to enjoy dessert and demonstrations of tying techniques. The pies, which were a combination of homemade and store bought, were furnished by members while the tying table was manned by John Olschewsky from the Hook Fly Shop in The Village at Sunriver. He tied several flies effective in local waters.

Rynie Miyashiro, club president, also presented information on upcoming charity events the club will support in 2023 and sought volunteers to assist. The Kokanee Karnival youth education event will return as well as a veteran’s recovery and rehabilitation support activity known as Healing Waters. Learn more at www.

Dry Canyon Village is an active adult, gated, 55+ community located in Redmond, Oregon. This is a 40-acre master-planned community consisting of 169 single level homes and a clubhouse. The spacious clubhouse will feature a tness center, yoga studio, locker rooms, pickle ball, bocce ball, and an indoor saline lap pool. The clubhouse will also boast two outdoor patios, an upstairs covered patio with scenic views of the Cascades Mountains and Smith Rock State Park. With several multipurpose gathering spaces, neighbors will be able to easily meet around the re pit and socialize. The community also has walking paths, paved multi-use paths with direct access to the Dry Canyon Park. Located just minutes from Downtown Redmond are restaurants, major retail stores, small shops, hospital, golf courses, other walking trails, biking trails, and parks.

We now have limited move in ready single-family homes available for personal residents or for rental income properties in our phase 1. We are taking reservations on our 38 cottages in phase 2 and the remaining single-family homes in phases 3 & 4. These are perfect homes for your new residence or investment properties. If you are interested in learning more, please visit drycanyonvillage.com and contact us at info@drycanyonvillage.com.

Power of 50 for Education: A catalyst for student success support

The Sunriver Women’s Club (SRWC) set out to mark its 50th anniversary by supporting student success with the Power of 50 for Education fund.

Not only did the Sunriver Women’s Club surpass its $50,000 goal to support youth in south Deschutes County, but members were the catalyst for community action.

Seeking community input

Initially, representatives of the Sunriver Women’s Club asked the community members what local youth need to be more successful in school and

beyond. The negative impact of virtual schooling and the already low graduation rate at La Pine High School was concerning to members.

The club solicited experiences and ideas from various key providers of youth services and education. These conversations sparked the convening of a community meeting in south Deschutes County. Representatives from the schools including principals, counselors and teachers, community and government agencies, area nonprofits, parents and local business owners met to brain-

storm ideas.

Community excitement grew with the thought of the Sunriver Women’s Club’s $50,000 being the seed money for existing service providers as well as bringing new providers to the community.

The community stakeholders were clear, local youth needed community programs outside of the school day to increase student engagement such as mentoring, after school and summer activities and parent involvement. All of these programs are proven resources to build student success.

Cruise planner understands the joy of travel

By Andrea Hine

Terry Rife enjoys helping people experience the joy of travel and the memories created by traveling.

“What I truly love to do is really ‘wow’ them,” she said.

Rife is a vacation planner who specializes in customizing trips to meet the budgets, values and personal preferences of her clients.

“No trip is too big or too small – whether it’s a weekend jaunt to San Diego or an around-the-world cruise,” Rife said. “Serving as a travel advocate for my clients, I’m able to handle every detail, free up their time and provide peace of mind because they know I’ll

go to bat for them should any issues arise – even in the middle of the ocean!”

A Sunriver resident and Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce member, Rife shared as she meets more Sunriver business owners and residents, some of whom have been clients, that she has found that people are glad to know they can rely on her to handle their travel needs.

“Many weren’t aware that trip advisors existed anymore (other than retailers like AAA) and indeed, the number of people who offer what I do has diminished significantly these past years,” she said.

She attributes the decline in

is March 1 this next time.

projecthealingwaters.org

The Anglers regular meetings occur on the first Wednesday of the month at 4:30 p.m. which

People interested in joining the Anglers should visit our website, www.SunriverAnglers. org or contact us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Sunriv erAnglers for more information.

travel professionals in part to the proliferating number of travel-related websites.

Rife pointed out her industry knowledge and experience helps clients “skip the hassle of searching hundreds of websites for the best prices or piecing together all the different legs of their itinerary. I have the advantage of knowing where to go.”

“As a travel expert and independent franchisee of Cruise Planners (which is nationwide in scope), I’m able to get special fares and amenities that others cannot – and as my fee is paid

Funding school success resources

The SRWC targeted the Power of 50 for Education funds to attract these programs to the community.

Community stakeholders were inspired and came together to form “The South County Collaborative: A New Initiative to Support and Empower the At-Risk Youth in Our Community” to address these educational gaps.

The South County Collaborative is the recipient of the Power of 50 for Education fund.

by the supplier (e.g., cruise lines and hotels), the trips I book don’t carry an extra cost to my clients,” Rife added.

With an array of digital tools at her fingertips, Rife prides herself on integrating them with a personal touch. “I’m bringing the human quality back to doing business with people. Especially after those isolating years of COVID, I think that we’re all seeking community again.”

To learn more about her travel advocate services, contact Rife via email at terry. rife@cruiseplanners.com or by phoning 503-509-8241.

Sunriver Women’s Club members are grateful for the outpouring of community support. Donors, whether they gave $50 or $5,000 in a one-time gift or in a recurring donation, were part of the overarching success.

Education and youth development will continue to be a priority for the Sunriver Women’s Club through its Community Grant Program.

To invest in improving the lives of youth in your local community, please donate at sunriverwomensclub.org.

Terry Rife, left, and her mother during a cruise in the port of Juneau, Alaska.

Sunriver Music Festival makes call for artists

Sunriver Music Festival invites a Central Oregon artist to create the commemorative 46th season poster.

“For more than four decades we have showcased some of the most accomplished artists in the region and the collaboration is a beautiful experience for all involved,” explains Executive Director Meagan Iverson.

Artist Kenneth Marunowski, 2018 poster artist, agrees. “Signing the gorgeous prints made from my image and attending two of the brilliant festival concerts was an absolute delight. During this exciting moment in my artistic life, I truly felt connected to the Sunriver community and felt like something of a star!”

David Kreitzer, poster artist for 2020-2021: “To have my art be chosen, and to be on the cover of the Sunriver Magazine as well, was a great ‘Welcome to Central Oregon’ gift. Sunriver Music Festival was very supportive and I was pleased to be

a part of it!”

Sally MacAllister, 2022 selected poster artist: “It was such an honor to be selected as the 45th season’s poster artist. Of course, I was very excited when I first heard the news, but I was overwhelmed when I saw my artwork on the poster and the publicity pieces the graphic team designed. And to have my summer filled with the wonderful concerts – such a rewarding experience. I’m so glad I was able to share my talent with this wonderful community.”

Here’s your opportunity to join the ranks of these and other esteemed artists by submitting your artwork to the selection committee, which is comprised of a jury of accomplished artists from the Artists’ Gallery Sunriver.

The only requirement on medium and size is that it is able to be reproduced successfully into an 18x24 poster and for the cover of the summer festival program book. Works

larger than 18x24 are not recommended. You can view past posters at sunrivermusic.org and at the festival office in The Village at Sunriver, building 13.

Artist benefits

• Expert reproduction and printing of the original artwork ensures staying true to the artist’s colors and medium.

• 300 posters are displayed on storefronts all over Bend, Sisters, Redmond and Sunriver.

• Posters are sold at the Sunriver Music Festival office and select galleries and shops in Sunriver and Bend.

• A press release published in multiple local publications (Cascade A&E, Bend Bulletin, Sunriver Scene, and others) with artist’s photo, bio and artwork.

• A full page article about the artist in the Sunriver Music Festival summer program book.

• The selected artwork is featured on the front cover of the Festival’s summer program

book, the annual ticket brochure, notecards, and m ore. The brochure is mailed to more than 5,500 festival patrons and Central Oregon residents and visitors.

• A framed poster is gifted to every festival sponsor, which often end up on office walls all over Central Oregon and beyond.

• The original work of art is custom framed by Eastlake Framing and auctioned at Festival Faire, the festival’s premier fundraiser.

The submission deadline is Feb. 28. Please contact the festival as soon as possible if you are considering submitting art for consideration.

The chosen artwork is considered a donation to the Sunriver

Mourning the loss of a young star; tickets for season debut

By Janet Grant

It is with deep sorrow Sunriver Stars Community Theater mourns the loss of one of its rising young stars, 14-year-old Morgan Thomas. Thomas was

known for her beautiful smile, can-do attitude and willingness to help wherever needed. She was instrumental in the Stars fall production, serving as both director’s assistant and

stagehand, and participated in STARS Kids Drama Camp this past summer.

“She was such a lovely girl and so helpful,” said artistic director Victoria Kristy. “Once she joined the backstage team, she only had to be asked once and from there, did things perfectly.”

Thomas passed on the night of Dec. 27. The Stars would like to thank the community who contributed to the fund in her memory to help support her family during this tragic time.

“Morgan was a sweetheart and I really cherished her,” said SSCT president Michele Hans. “She was so pleased to be my assistant for Kids Camp and ‘Oz!’ – I’m heartbroken.”

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is

available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

Tickets available for Stars opening show

Tickets for the Stars first show of the season, Phil Olson’s “A Nice Family Gathering,” will go on sale Feb. 9. The production, directed by Ron Pugh, will take place at 7 p.m. March 9-11 and March 17, and at 2 p.m. March 18, at The Door Three Rivers.

The comedy tells the story of a man who loved his wife so much, he almost told her. On Thanksgiving, the Lundeen family gathers for the first time since dad died. Dad comes back as a ghost with a mission; to tell his wife of 35 years he loved her, something he neglected to do while he was alive. The problem is, only one son can see and hear dad, and mom decided to invite a date to dinner.

The season will continue in

Music Festival; all other submissions will be available for pick-up in early March.

For more information visit www.sunrivermusic.org, email information@sunrivermusic. org or call 541-593-1084.

June with the broadcast show, “Radio Star’s Old Time Mystery Theater,” directed by Susan Evans Inman, and STARS Kid Drama Camp later that month.

In July, Victoria Kristy will present a psychological thriller, “Trap for a Lonely Man.” The season will conclude in November with an all-ages production of “Anne of Green Gables,” directed by Michele Hans.

The theater group is still seeking creative and business-minded young adults, especially those with organizational skills, to volunteer or join the board. It hopes to fill the role of Marketing Director and recruit more artists, builders, seamstresses, choreographers, vocal coaches and, of course, musicians, actors and directors.

SSCT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization. To donate, participate or for show dates and details, please visit www.sunriverstars.org or follow SSCT on Facebook.

Notice to owners who hire snow removal contractors

If you hire a contractor to remove snow from your Sunriver driveway, walkways, decks, roof or patios, please request (and monitor) the following:

• All removed snow must remain on your property.

• Take special care to make sure snow is not dumped near or around fire hydrants.

• Snow from your property should not be plowed or blown onto neighbors’ driveway or property.

• Snow from your property should not be plowed or blown onto commons, including islands in the cul-de-sacs.

• Your snow should not be pushed into the street for other motorists to navigate through.

• Do-it-yourselfers are also requested to keep snow on their own property

For a list of snow removal contractors who have registered with the SROA, go to www.sunriverowners.org/departments/public-works/snowplowing

Sally MacAllister’s ‘Cascade Sunset’ was chosen as the 2022 poster artwork for Sunriver Music Festival.

The Sunriver Service District Managing Board held its regular meeting on Jan. 19, 2023. Board members present: Jim Fister, Bill Hepburn, John Ralston, Robert Foster, Gerhard Beenen, Tony De Alicante and John Shoemaker.

SSD staff present: Chief Mike Womer, Chief Tim Moor, Lt. Stephen Lopez, administrator Mindy Holliday and public safety building project manager Doug Nelson.

Public input

-None

Consent Agenda

–Approved Dec. 15, 2022 regular SSD board meeting minutes as written.

–Approved Dec. 20, 2022 minutes of the joint meeting with Deschutes County Commissioners as written.

–Approved Dec. 20, 2022 special board meeting minutes as written.

–Approved Jan. 12, 2023 special board meeting minutes as written.

–Approved SROA monthly invoice in the amount of $18,162.89.

–Approved SDIS invoice of $67,459 for 2023 liability insurance coverage.

–Approved Brown & Brown invoice in the amount of $3,268 for 2023 cyber insurance.

Sunriver Service District board monthly meeting summary

safety

–Approved two invoices from Drive Unlimited for a total of $17,550.87 for two new patrol vehicle builds with light bar, running boards, partition, wiring, etc.

Old business

Public Safety Building Update: As estimated costs for the project rolled in the budget also increased. Several meetings were held to decide what could be removed to get constructions costs back down but not interfere with specific requirements and needs of fire/police. Items included switching from a metal roof to composite materials, taking out 3,000 square feet of redundant living space, covered parking, snow melt system and moving the apparatus bay. Some of these items have been placed on a “buy back” list should construction come under budget and be reconsidered. Construction should break ground in the spring (with a groundbreaking ceremony expected in April) with phase 1 construction starting with the new section of the facility.

–Approved the following invoices for December 2022 funding requests:

• Nelson Capital: $9,500

• KMB Architecture: $121,214.29

• Local Government Law Group: $1,073.65

SSD Financial Report

• Bend Mapping: $1,142.15

• SSD reimbursement: $190.59

–Reviewed and discussed the facility’s schematic design. –Reviewed monthly memo of the project to be sent to the Deschutes County Commissioners.

New business

–The Executive Advisory Committee met (board chair, vice chair and fire/police chiefs) to discuss the makeup of the committee and what it should be about, which includes collaboration, sharing ideas, communication, transparency, etc. between the two departments.

–Sunriver 2023 Public Protection Classification Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating: Chief Moor congratulated the community on Sunriver’s new ISO rating at 2 (previously a 3 based on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being the best). The rating is based on three major criteria: reliability of dispatch service, sufficient water supply and the capabilities of the fire department.

–Administrator Holliday provided a status report on the district’s 2021/22 fiscal year audit.

–Viewed the year-end report of the Sunriver Police Department, which included two vehicle pursuits (one inside, one outside Sunriver), 14 use of force incidents (only one inside Sunriver) and no officer involved shootings or com -

plaints. There was one internal investigation resulting in minor discipline.

–Approved the SSD’s public employees retirement system/ retirement rehire policy and to add the policy to the employee handbook.

–Administrator Holliday provided an update on the SSD’s 2022 annual report. It was decided that the previously separate police and fire reports would be rolled into one.

–Reviewed draft RFPs for human resources, payroll and accounting needs for the district. SROA will stop providing these services on June 30.

–Board members were reminded of the SDAO conference in Sunriver in February and board members were encouraged to attend.

–Approved the December 2022 unaudited financials.

Chief reports

Fire –In December, there were 59 calls for the Sunriver Fire Department, which included 31 EMS calls, 11 mutual aid, 5 hazardous materials, 6 motor vehicle crashes and 4 public service assistance calls.

–Continue to participate in public safety facility meetings.

–Firefighter/paramedic hiring process is going well and will have a person on by March 1 with each shift manned by four personnel.

–The department is planning a six month schedule of

CITIZEN

training which will help with acting-in-capacity vacancies.

–Revisiting the reserves program by working with COCC to place three reserves during daylight hours only due to the upcoming construction project.

–Revising the auto-aid response policy with the La Pine Fire District.

–Outreach activities included fire station tours by visiting families.

Police

–In December, the Sunriver Police Department received 664 calls for service, 53 of which were emergencies. Officers conducted 150 traffic stops that resulted in 22 citations, provided 117 community-policing responses, conducted 127 security checks and responded to 16 animal issues, 10 parking and 7 noise complaints.

–Met with SROA to discuss revising Sunriver’s drone rule as the department is purchasing two drones for emergency use.

–Purchased new equipment including ballistic helmets and new body armor plates for officers and replacing patrol rifles.

–Presented the department’s

12-1 Sunriver Police Department provided mutual aid to the Deschutes County Sheri ’s by responding as cover to a report of a domestic disturbance involving a knife in La Pine.

12-2 Responded to a Jacinto Road location for the report of a female acting suspicious in the area. O cer contacted the subject, who was observed driving minutes before the call. Subject was taken into custody for DWS and a parole detainer and was lodged at DCJ.

12-2 Made contact with a subject at the Sunriver Business Park. The subject was arrested and lodged at the DCJ for a warrant.

12-4 Responded to a non-injury motor vehicle accident at the corner of Venture Lane and Enterprise Drive. The driver was taken into custody by the Bend Police Department for DUII.

12-6 While running routing tra c enforcement on Highway 97 ocer stopped a vehicle traveling southbound at 94 mph in a 55 mph zone. Subsequent to the investigation, the driver was taken into custody for DUII, reckless driving and reckless endangerment.

12-8 Responded to a burglary in progress on Red Fir in Sunriver. The suspect was located and arrested for seven criminal charges including attempted burglary, theft and trespassing.

12-9 Sunriver o cers assisted a subject who had locked herself out of her running vehicle. O cer was able to open the vehicle.

12-10 Stopped a subject on Marsh Hawk Road and Killdeer Dr. Subsequent investigation led to the cite and release of subject for driving while suspended misdemeanor. The subject’s vehicle was towed by a DCSO deputy.

12-12 Conducted a tra c stop at South Century and Vandevert Road. Subsequent to the investigation, the driver was cited in lieu of custody for DWS.

The Sunriver Service District (SSD) Board has completed hiring the team to design and construct the new Public Safety Building.

The next step is to continue working with the SROA Design Review Committee for design submittal and approvals. The first stage was to host a Neighborhood Meeting (held Jan. 12) to provide conceptual plans and information, and to receive community input.

Representatives from KMB Architects, Pinnacle Architecture and Kirby Nagelhout Construction Company (KNCC) joined the SSD board, Sunriver Fire and Police staff, and owner’s representative Doug Nelson to host the Neighborhood Meeting.

Winter dangers; sign up for emergency alerts

By Jim Bennett

If all goes as planned, we’ve passed the mid-way point of winter, but that means we still have many more cold days, icy streets and probably snow. As we continue to navigate through the winter months, keeping a fire safety mindset is as important as ever.

Did you know that heating is the number two cause of residential fires in Oregon? Sadly, so much could have been done to prevent these fires.

Do not use heaters in close contact with flammable materials and be sure to turn them off when you leave the room. A spark from a fireplace can be devasting. Be sure to have and use appropriate spark contain-

ment (glass doors, approved screens).

During the summer months the thought of an evacuation from a wildland fire emergency certainly crosses many minds, but not so much during the snowy winter. However, an evacuation could actually occur any time of year. Imagine an emergency up at the railroad tracks, an earthquake or any other human or nature-caused incident.

We are very fortunate to have great systems in place for evacuations should the need ever occur. One important component is our community-wide outdoor siren system.

If you were to hear the sirens blaring, what would you do?

Certainly, it is a signal that something is wrong, and action needs to be taken. Go to www. sunriveremergencyinfo.com which has information on how to be prepared and what to do in an emergency.

We will also push important information through our emergency alert system, as well as the county’s alert system. Combined, these systems send messages through phone, email and text. However, you do need to register for these alerts. If you haven’t done so, now is the perfect time.

With more than 50 people in attendance, community members were able to visit various breakout stations for a more personal experience. Stations included topics such as site design/landscaping/ parking, project schedule/permitting, construction logistics/ disruption mitigation, building services/community resources, and general comments/ questions. Professionals were at each station to present materials and information, and to answer any questions. The event was recorded, as some attended via Zoom, and it is posted at www.sunriversd.org/ public-safety-bldg

Sunriver Police, Fire and administrative staff are working with the architectural team to

Go to sunriveremergency info.com and click on both the signup links for Sunriver Text Alerts and Deschutes County Alerts. While you are on the emergency info page take a few moments to familiarize yourself with our evacuation information and other important safety steps you can take to protect you and your family.

Thinking back a few years ago there was a wonderful “save” our firefighters made on our waterways. A deer had ventured onto a frozen golf course pond and couldn’t make its way off. Our firefighters quickly deployed our ice sled (funded by

finalize the schematic design. Concurrently, KNCC is providing probable construction cost estimates and constructability analysis.

Once the design and budget are finalized, it will go to the SSD Board for approval. An application will then be submitted to the SROA Design Committee, and the project will also be processed publicly through the Deschutes County Planning Department.

The goal is to officially break ground this spring, where the public will be invited to a groundbreaking event.

The district will continue to share updates in the Scene and at www.sunriversd.org. For any questions or concerns, email ssdadmin@sunriversd.org.

Be careful when using space heaters in the home.

a grant from Firehouse Subs… thank you!) and rescued the deer, an awesome save. However, this thought also reminds us of the dangers

Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Concert the best gig around

Blue Skies Big Band, based in Eugene, loves performing the big band dance tunes – those familiar Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman tunes.

“Sunriver is always a really fun concert for us because so many dancers get up on the floor. The interaction between musicians and the audience makes for a fun night,” said Dr. Dan Cathey, the band’s director for the last few years. “I’ve loaded this year’s setlist with beloved swing tunes, cha-chas, waltzes and more, and, of course, a few showcasing our excellent band members, too.”

2023 continues the tradition of Sunriver Music Festival’s crowd-pleasing Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Concert on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Sunriver Resort’s historic Great Hall. Few seats remain, so get your tickets now at sunrivermusic.org or call 541-593-1084. Tickets are $125 per person and include hosted happy hour, multicourse dinner and the full concert.

Blue Skies is a 17-piece big band keeping alive the great tradition of big band swing music of the 1920s-40s. The tight vocal harmonies of the Jewel Tones front the band. This annual Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Concert is an opportunity for a delicious night out in the iconic Great Hall. Kick up your heels on the dance floor or tap your toe from the comfort of your table.

of frozen waters throughout our community. There have certainly been examples here and elsewhere of people falling through what they thought was a solid, thick sheet of ice.

It does happen and falling into frigid waters can be life-threatening and waters with a current under the ice can quickly make it even more dangerous. It is not only the human dangers but a loose dog running on the ice for that fun slide, and seemingly great video opportunity which can turn fun into tragedy.

We are incredibly fortunate to have well-trained emergency responders with the right equipment, but tragedy can occur within moments so be sure to keep all family members well clear of the ice.

The second half of winter may see some of us traveling for a bit of warmth somewhere

south. Likewise, some of our vacation rental homes may be less occupied during certain periods. Without someone at home, it’s important to take extra steps to protect the home during absences.

The “lived in” look is always a great deterrent to thieves who may be looking for the perfect, unoccupied home to burglarize. Leaving a light on, especially with a timer, can help give the illusion you are home. Be sure all doors and windows are secured.

It seems everyone has that door or window that takes that special pull or push to get the lock to engage or door to close. That’s fine if you are familiar with that quirk, but if your home is used by others, they may not know the trick. Fixing any door or lock issue is an worthy investment in your home’s security.

Be sure your home’s heating is also set to accommodate freezing temperatures and don’t forget to turn off those space heaters.

We most likely will have many more days of cold and inclement weather, so be prepared, keep your home safe and secure, drive slowly and watch out for those slippery walkways.

–Jim Bennett is the public information officer for the Sunriver Fire Department.

2022 operations report on use of force, complaints, etc.

–Captured a burglary suspect after tracking the person for three hours through the snow (an instance where a drone would have come in handy).

–Community event participation included Coffee with a Cop, Grand Illumination and Shop with a Cop, a polar plunge and career talk at Three Rivers School.

Administration

–Participated in several meetings with the design team related to the public safety facility to discuss schematics and updated plans. Coordinated the Jan. 12 Neighborhood Meeting open house as required under SROA’s Design Manual.

–The SSD’s Budget Committee met in January to kickoff the 2023/24 budget. A schedule has been provided to department heads to begin their budgeting process. Work is also underway to update the reserve list.

–Attended the Coffee with a Cop and continue to create and disperse announcements to promote this monthly event.

–Created the RFPs to obtain human resources, payroll and accounting services for the district.

Other business

–The next regular meeting of the Sunriver Service District Managing Board is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 16, 3 p.m.

The meeting adjourned at 5:29 p.m.

Approved meeting minutes are posted, as available, to www. sunriversd.org.

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COAR supports Habitat for Humanity with $5,000 grant

By Andrea Hine

Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver recently received a $5,000 grant from Central Oregon Association of Realtors’ (COAR) Oregon Realtors 2022 Home Foundation.

“We so appreciate this grant on behalf of all the communities in Central Oregon that have benefited from the generosity of COAR,” said Vicki Russell, board president of Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver.

Teri Buxton, the president of COAR’s La Pine chapter, presented the check to Russell and Dwane Krumme, the affiliate’s executive director.

“The money will go a long way in helping families build self-reliance, stability and a better future for generations to come,” Russell added.

Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver celebrates its 30th anniversary of serving southern Deschutes County residents in 2023.

In 2022, COAR contributed $40,000 to more than 20 area nonprofits.

Buxton said both COAR and Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver are dedicated to promoting home ownership – which “contributes to building better communities by supporting quality growth and sustainable economies.”

The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce and the La Pine Chamber of Commerce invite you to attend their joint breakfast discussing “Workforce Development – A to Z” on Thursday, Feb. 16 at SHARC in Sunriver. Doors open at 7 a.m., breakfast is served at 7:30 a.m. and the presentation is from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Cost is $25 per person.

Guest speakers include:

• Joshua Lehner, an economist with the state Oregon

• Deschutes County Commissioners Patti Adair, Phil Chang and Tony DeBone

• Jaime Eder, director of workforce development and community engagement for Visit Central Oregon and Visit Bend

• Larry Holeman, Youth CareerConnect Regional Managing Director with EDCO

There are two $150 sponsorships available. Sponsors will get to speak three-minutes about their business and be included in the marketing materials.

Call 541-593-8149 or RSVP to exec@sunriverchamber.com for additional information.

Reserve ad space in Sunriver Magazine

Work has begun on the 202324 Sunriver Magazine, scheduled to be released in late April.

Be sure to reserve your ad for the magazine by March 1. If you are a chamber member,

there are discounts on ad prices.

Some 20,000 magazines are distributed in Sunriver, chamber and visitor centers offices in Central Oregon, the Redmond Airport, High Desert Museum and throughout the Willamette Valley.

Advertising in the Sunriver Magazine means that you will get seen first by people looking to visit Sunriver and/or relocate.

Contact Jeff Martin at jeff@ cascadebusnews.com to reserve your ad space, and Kristine Thomas at exec@sunriver chamber.com to become a chamber member or renew your membership.

cheon for the middle school girls at Three Rivers Elementary School from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, March 16 at SHARC.

The chamber is seeking 75 women to attend the lunch and share information about their careers with the students. This is for women who are currently employed or retired. There is no cost to attend, just a willingness to answer questions and talk about your career with middle school girls.

working event including Lunch & Learn, Sunriver Social Hour and Coffee Klatch

• Participating in the Shop/ Savor Sunriver campaigns to highlight your business

• Being featured in social media posts

• Having a story about your business in the Sunriver Scene.

• Being listed in the Sunriver Magazine’s directory and featured in magazine articles

• All members are listed on the website at www.sunriver chamber.com

• A ribbon cutting and spotlight on your business for new members

Welcome new

member: Wise Buys Ads & More

Wise Buys Ads & More is in its 16th year bringing weekly news and information to Central Oregonians and visitors. Pick up your free copy at more than 170 locations throughout Central Oregon, including several locations in Sunriver. Free classified ads, great rates on display ads, local interest stories and more.

Wise Buys Ads & More is in La Pine at 51435 Huntington Rd. You can read Wise Buys online at www.wisebuysads. com. Call 541-536-2532 for more information.

Women of Wonder: Career exploration for middle school girls

The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lun-

If you are interested in attending, please email Chamber Executive Director Kristine Thomas at exec@sunriver chamber.com with your name and your career title. Sponsorships are also available.

Not a chamber member? Reasons to join or renew

The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce would like to formally invite you to join or renew your membership.

Over the past year, significant changes have been made in an effort to provide increased value to business membership.

Membership benefits include:

• Attending or hosting a net-

In 2023, the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to continuing the primary objective of providing value to its members, so please consider joining or renewing your membership. A Silver Membership is $325 a year or $27 a month to share information about your business and participate in chamber activities.

Please email exec@sunriv erchamber.com for additional information or to meet for coffee to answer your questions about becoming a member or renewing your membership.

Sunriver Mens Golf: winter arrived early; club benefits

By Paul Grieco

Snow struck Central Oregon and much of the West in the first week of November and has relentlessly dropped snow in increments of inches continuously through the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023 (it’s snowing heavily and forecasted as “briefly” as I write). While our skiing, boarding and snowshoeing friends rejoice, we local golf nuts who golf down-mountain have yet been able to get any rounds in as the surrounding lower elevations have also been hit harder with snow than is customary.

As of this writing, no schedule has been set for the opening of the Sunriver courses nor the beginning of the Sunriver Mens Golf Club (SRMGC) official golf season. If history is a guide and local weather follows normal patterns, we very well could see the opening of the Meadows by late March and the start of the SRMGC season in the first week of April.

Rules of Golf modifications for 2023

The R&A and the USGA are continuing their biannual efforts at modifying or updating the Rules of Golf. The modifications which took effect on the first day of this year are meant

to make the game’s guidelines easier to understand and apply, and to be more in sync with the way the game is evolving

These latest tweaks emphasize inclusion and sustainability and include updates to rules for golfers with disabilities. Penalties have been relaxed as well, and language has been clarified to help golfers of all skill levels.

For complete information on the changes and to review the official 2023 Rules of Golf, you can go to the USGA website at www.usga.org.

Benefits of membership in the Sunriver Mens Golf Club

There are lots of good reasons to belong to the SRMGC which include playing in our official weekly golf events on two premier courses, the Meadows and the Woodlands (both stocked with state-of-the-art electric carts) with guaranteed morning tee times and four shotgun events over the season. Other fine area venues are played for special events like the “home & home” at Juniper, the Resort Cup at Widgi Creek, Black Butte and Eagle Crest, and the Sunriver Cup at Crosswater (“Cup” events requiring qualifying). There are weekly prizes awarded in team or individual play, as well

as KPs and skins along with a season long 18-hole challenge. “Pro-style” results are posted within hours of play and tracked cumulatively for end of year awards and recognition. All skill levels are welcome. Perhaps the greatest bonus of all is that most members regularly play in friendly competitions on other days of the week, leading to fun times, camaraderie, and the opportunity to create great friendships. Membership highlights also include free lunch or libations at selected events and a season-opening breakfast followed by a round of golf, and a rewarding season-end banquet in recognition of award winners in numerous categories, with many raffle and auction prizes.

Mink awarded OGA’s Course Rating Volunteer of the Year

The Oregon Golf Association’s Local Knowledge Newsletter reported that SRMGC member Roger Mink, our former handicap director, was awarded the honor of being selected as the OGA Course Rating Volunteer of the Year for 2022. Kelly Neely, OGA’s Senior Director of Handicapping and Course Rating wrote, “Roger has been a stalwart, dedicated member of our rating team for nearly 20 years, while also doing stints as a handicap chair and OGA director. We’ve always appreciated his knowl-

edge, his generosity, and his keen sense of humor (which always comes in handy on Course Rating trips!).” Kudos to Roger.

New members welcome

New members are welcome. Sunriver residency is not a requirement. Find the SRMGC online at www.srmensgolf.com. For more information email SRMGC president Don Nolte at NolteFamily4@msn.com or me at the email address listed below.

–Paul J. Grieco is handicap chair of the SRMC and may be reached at pjg3sr@gmail.com

Police Foundation unveils new logo

A new logo was presented at the December meeting of the formation committee of the upcoming Sunriver Police Foundation. Sunriver’s police chief authorized using a version of their department’s new badge. The officers wear gold-toned badges and the foundation logo is silver and says foundation at the bottom.

During a recent meeting, an initial mission statement was presented by Gary Bigham as

was a discussion of attorney fees to create the proper documentation for the foundation. Guest speaker was David Green of the Central Oregon First Responders Chaplains. Green noted that his chaplains are in Sunriver six to eight times a month. Members felt there could be some synergy with the two groups.

Foundation members present included Mary Ann and Niles Hansen, Bob Hahn, Mary Fister, Gary Bigham, Jeff Groth, Lt. Steve Lopez and Dennis Dishaw.

Future meetings will fall on the second Wednesday of each month. Anyone interested in becoming a member of the foundation T  L,  

Rotary learns that CASA seeks volunteers

By Lee Haroun

Learning about what is going on in our community and how we can best serve is a major benefit of being a member of the Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club. At one of our January breakfast meetings, we heard a presentation given by Heather Dion, executive director of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Central Oregon. She reported some sobering statistics: in our local area, there are currently 281 children who have been placed in foster care, taken from their homes by court order because of profound abuse and or neglect. Many of these children are moved frequently from one foster home to another: three is the average number of moves for each child. This presents many problems, among them the possibility of conflicting care and supervision, lapses in doctor, dental, and therapy appointments, and a lack school progress follow-up. Being moved about can be upsetting and even traumatic as the children don’t know who they can trust to be there for them.

CASA advocates are volunteers who receive training and support from the organization. They are assigned a foster child who they meet with at least monthly and as explained by the organization, “they listen to the child, get to know everyone in the child’s life and then advocate for the best interest of that child in court.” Advocates are “ordinary people” age 21 and over who pass a background check and agree to a two-year commitment. According to Jay Smith, a Sunriver resident who served as a volunteer advocate for 15 years, the foster care system is overburdened and complicated. He explained that the role of the advocate is to get to know their child very well

and to consistently do what is best for them. Advocates write monthly reports for the court as well as attending hearings on behalf of the child. In some cases, their input about the child is the most accurate.

Children who have a CASA volunteer advocate move into a permanent home more quickly, have a better chance of succeeding in school, and are more likely to receive needed services. Fortunately, the majority of children in foster care go back to live with their parents. CASA reports that children who have had an advocate are less likely to re-enter foster care.

Linda Gocke, a Sunriver resident, is a long-time CASA volunteer. In our conversation, Gocke told me a story that helped inspire her commitment to the organization. She was driving home from an evening CASA training session. Finding her way in the dark and inclement weather, she stopped at a coffee shop for a break. In chatting with the young woman who was serving her, Gocke mentioned where she had been to which the woman exclaimed, “CASA saved my life when I was a child!” For the past 11 years, Gocke has been working with children – 17 so far. She currently advocates for a toddler not yet two years old who has been in four homes since birth. She may be the only consistent adult in this young child’s life. Having a connection to the courts sometimes provides advocates with the means to secure needed services for children. In one of her previous cases, a conscientious foster parent was unable to get a dental appointment for a child who had several cavities. Because of Gocke being court-appointed, she was able to get a court order for a dentist to provide care.

The local Rotary Club has

awarded several grants to CASA to help support the organization, made possible by our annual fundraising dinner in May and donations from members of the club and community. In addition to monetary donations, there is an immediate need for 50 more volunteer advocates. The next training session, consisting of 40 hours over a 10-week period, begins the end of January and again in the spring.

For more information, visit the CASA website at www.casa ofcentraloregon.org. Becoming a volunteer advocate is a way to express your love for children and for the community.

12-14 Reported the front door of the residence on Shamrock was open. The RP closed the door and noti ed the police. A security check of the home was conducted and secured the door. Other than the open door, there was no indication the home had been entered.

12-14 RP reported there was a cartop carrier in the snowbank on West Cascade between Circle 4 and Circle 5. Checking the area, o cer located a black canvas bag. The bag was entered into evidence as found property.

12-19 Subject made a telephone report of hit and run damage to his vehicle which was unoccupied and parked in the lot east of the Great Hall. RP said the vehicle was parked there on Dec. 9 between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. and did not notice the damage until he got home. He advised the damage was on the left front side of the vehicle with an estimate of $6,000.

12-20 RP reported that, while she was cleaning a rental property, the renter next door was making loud moaning noises. She stated there have been prior complaints of the noise.

12-22 Police were dispatched to the pond behind the Sunriver Nature Center regarding a juvenile who had fallen through the ice. When units arrive, the juvenile was out of the water, o the ice and was not injured.

call or text Dennis Dishaw at 818-612-0913. The Police Foundation will be a new, nonprofit that is not affiliated with the Sunriver Service District. The foundation will act separately to provide support and services to the Sunriver Police Department officers.

12-29 Conducted a tra c stop on Highway 97 at milepost 153 on a suspected vehicle from a hit and run that occurred in Bend. Subsequent to the investigation, the driver was taken into custody for DUII – alcohol, hit and run and reckless driving.

12-31 Provided mutual aid to the DCSO by responding to a reported domestic disturbance at Caldera Springs.

12-31 Conducted a tra c stop with a vehicle on South Century at milepost 1. Subsequent to the investigation, the driver was cited in lieu of custody for DWS.

By Deon Stonehouse

February is a great month for reading and Book Club discussions. It is still cold outside and dark early, leaving less time to enjoy our beautiful outdoors. Pleasure can be found curled up in a chair with a good book, stepping into other experiences through the pages.

Sunriver Books has both Zoom and in-person Book Clubs. Zoom Book Clubs meet at 6 p.m. Monday and in person discussions meet at 4:30 p.m. Monday.

If you would like to attend a discussion, email sunriver books@sunriverbooks.com and let me know which Book Club meeting you plan to attend.

• On Feb. 6 via Zoom and Feb. 13 in-person, Mystery Book Club discusses “The Bullet That Missed” by Richard Osman, the third in the popular “Thursday Murder Club” series. Join Elizabeth, Ibrahim, Ron and Joyce for another nail-bitting escapade. They are delving into more cold cases, this time picking one that some powerful people would really like to keep firmly in the unsolved files.

Several years ago, a rising star in local TV news, Bethany Waites, was murdered when her car went over a cliff into the

sea. By all accounts, the talented reporter was investigating something big.Mike Waghorn is the lead talent on the local news show, “South End Tonight,” where he and Bethany were close friends. It doesn’t take the Thursday Murder Club long to have him on board helping with their investigation.

Of course, Joyce has a crush on Mike. There is electricity between Ron and Pauline, two strong people who fit together nicely. Good to see Ron enjoying some female companionship. Ibrahim has fallen in love with Joyce’s dog, Allen. Nothing wrong with that, I am besotted with my dog, too. Shows good sense to appreciate canine company, and Ibrahim is a paragon of good sense. Speaking of electricity, PC Donna De Freitas and Bogdan are definitely shooting off sparks. DCI Chris Hudson is a new, much improved, man since he started keeping com-

pany with Patrice. It is grand to see them involved in rewarding relationships.

Not all is sunshine and joy. Connie Johnson’s rage against Ron and Bogdan is smoldering as she awaits her trial for crimes that should put her away for a good long time. She has vowed to kill Ron and Bogdan for their role in her arrest. It is not an idle threat; she seems to be running her criminal enterprises from inside the jail. And Elizabeth is being blackmailed into killing an old acquaintance. She definitely has the skill set to accomplish the task, the threat that motivates her is serious. But will she carry out the execution?

As a side note, Steven Spielberg is making a movie of the “Thursday Murder Club.”

• Feb. 20 via Zoom and Feb. 27 in-person Fiction Book Club discusses “The Storyteller” by Jodi Picoult. The story centers

around a young woman with secrets of her own, who befriends an elderly man and discovers his secrets will have repercussions that reverberate through her own life in unexpected ways.

Sage Singer is an atheist Jew working as a baker at Our Daily Bread, a bakery owned by a former nun Mary DeAngelis, adjoining the Our Lady of Mercy Shrine. The work suits Sage, it allows her to work alone at night and away from people, doing something that has been in her family for generations – baking. Sage doesn’t like to be around people, her face is scarred, and she worries about the reaction of others when they see her. She is secretive about the way she was disfigured.

A staple of Sage’s life is the grief support group she has attended for the past three years, trying to deal with her grief from the death of her mother. Recently an elderly man, Josef Weber, has been attending the sessions. Josef is known as a kind man in the community,

and Mary likes him. He walks his dachshund, Eva, and stops by the bakery frequently. He has secrets, too.

Sage and Josef develop a friendship. He is not concerned about her face, is able to look at it without reaction. In reality Josef has seen worse. They spend time together, going to the grief support group, chatting at the bakery and playing chess. They take comfort in each other’s company. And then one day, Josef tells Sage his secret and requests a significant favor. It changes everything.

It has been just about 80 years since the world said, “never again.” And yet, today tanks roll across the Eastern Front, apartment buildings are shredded by the tools of war, and the world has learned the name of Bucha. This is a timely novel, reminding us of the cost of evil to all concerned.

Sunriver Books & Music is in building 25 in The Village at Sunriver. Call 541-593-2525 or visit www.sunriverbooks.com

By Alan Zalewski

Come Sunday, May 21 at 6 p.m. and enjoy a fun time as you witness the transformation of the Sunriver Resort’s Great Hall into an island paradise just for you with your hosts –the Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club – during their annual gala dinner and auction benefitting numerous charities throughout the Sunriver-La Pine south Deschutes County area.

The auction committee has treats and surprises prepared to make you feel as though you are on a warm tropical beach holiday. Please wear your finest and colorful Hawaiian, tropical, beach dress and sandals are encouraged. Participate in our “Best Island Dress” contest. No entry fee is required (because everyone is automatically entered), and there will be winners for best male and best female dress. Prizes will be awarded, so don’t be bashful.

We are busy now obtaining items for you to bid on. Last month we featured a winter escape to Scottsdale, Arizona. Now we add more adventures:

• Tickets to the Ashland Shakespeare Festival.

• A week-long stay on the Oregon coast at Depot Bay.

• Four lucky people will take a private “flightseeing” flight from Bend to Burns on an Epic turboprop plane, have lunch at Silvies Ranch Resort, get a personal tour and then, at the end of the day, fly back. Check Silvies Resort out on their website: https://silvies.us/.

• A beach house stay in Florida.

• Plus, many more exciting and fun getaways and must haves. We will showcase even more next month, so stay tuned.

Our “Wine Wall” has been such a hit these past few years that we decided to make it bigger and better. You can

expect that several bottles will be premiere wines with their lineage included on a paper in the bag listing their initial price and rating, plus their current greatly increased market value.

All wines are guaranteed to be worth more than your $25 bid,

so you’re a winner no matter what.

And finally, expect world class service at your tropic resort. So, mark your calendars for May 21. We look forward to seeing you. Go to sunriver-lapinero tary.org to RSVP for the event

Art for all in the SCF hall

Sunriver Christian Fellowship (SCF) will open its very own art gallery located in the hallways outside of the beautiful new sanctuary. A grand opening reception will be held on Friday, Feb. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the new SCF building at 18139 Cottonwood Road. Refreshments will be provided, and all are welcome.

The opening show is titled “Reawakening,” in honor of the church’s rebirth in a new space. It features Central Oregon’s High Desert Art League, a group of professional artists offering original paintings and photographs. On display will be works in watercolor, oil, encaustic, pastel and acrylic, along with photography. The 13-members are Helen Brown, Pamela Beaverson, Barbara Cella, Jan Dow, Janet Frost, Liz Haberman, Michelle Lindblom, Jean Lubin, Karen Maier, Jacqueline Newbold, Vivian Olsen, Janice Rhodes and Joren Traveller.

The public can view the show through the end of March. Gallery hours are weekdays, except Thursday, from 2 to 4 p.m. and Sundays, noon to 1 p.m., following the 10 a.m. worship service. Worship services are open to all, and all are welcome to the communion table.

SCF will host various artists and groups of artists, with shows rotating quarterly. An Art Committee has been appointed to maintain a calendar of shows, review and approve the art, and coordinate the installations and receptions. Current members of the committee are Liz Haberman, Chris Hamilton and Linda Porter. If you are an artist (painter, photographer, quilter or other medium), and are interested in participating in the SCF art gallery, please contact the art gallery director, Liz Haberman via email at liz.haberman@gmail.com

The Epic E1000 GX is an all carbon fiber plane that delivers exceptional speed, range, payload, elegance and safety.

Silvies Ranch is rated as one of the Top 50 Golf Resorts in the U.S., and where your caddy is a goat (no kidding).

‘Winter Fire’ by Janet Frost

‘Hideout’ by Liz Haberman

High Desert Museum’s February events

The High Desert Museum is located about 10 minutes north of Sunriver off Highway 97. Current hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For information, visit www.highdesertmuseum. org or call 541-382-4754.

Daily schedule

All daily talks are free with museum admission

• 1904 Miller Ranch and Sawmill, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Meet Central Oregonians of the past as they welcome you into interactive history. Explore how a family lived and supported itself in the High Desert. Help with the chores and play games.

• Natural History Walk , 10:30 a.m. Join a naturalist for a short walk on museum grounds to learn about the diverse habitats that support an abundance of plants and animals in the region.

• Bird of Prey Encounter, 11 a.m. Meet a nonreleasable raptor in the museum’s care. Learn about the unique natural history of different species, their role in the environment and what you can do to ensure their future on the landscape.

• Carnivore Talk, 12 p.m. From wolves and cougars to bobcats and black bears, many predatory mammals call the High Desert home. Learn how to identify them and hear about their role in the ecosystem.

• Living History Encounter, 12:30 p.m. (weekdays only). Meet Central Oregonians of the past as they welcome you into history. Discover how a family lived and supported itself in the High Desert.

• Otter Encounter, 1 p.m. Explore the role this charismatic animal plays in riparian ecosys-

tems of the High Desert. Where are they found? What do they eat? How are they an indicator of a healthy river community?

• High Desert Hooves , 2 p.m. Mammals with hooves, such as mule deer and pronghorn, are some of the most iconic species in the High Desert. Find out how scientists study their migrations and manage challenging issues facing these populations.

• Bird of Prey Encounter, 3 p.m. Meet a nonreleasable raptor in the museum’s care. Learn about the unique natural history of different species, their role in the environment and what you can do to ensure their future on the landscape.

Other events

• Monday, Feb. 6, 7–8 p.m. Doors at 5:30 p.m. Natural History Pub: Refuge Trees: Homestead-Era Oases at Malheur

Old stands of largely cottonwood trees grow within Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Eastern Oregon. Although these trees are not native to the region, many of the more than 340 species of birds that visit Malheur annually depend on these trees to nest, feed and rest.

Join Janelle Wicks, Director of the Friends of Malheur NWR, to learn about the group’s work to ensure a future that supports a wildlife oasis in the High Desert. Free, registration is required. At McMenamins Old St. Francis School, Bend. Register at highdesertmuseum.org/ natural-history-pub-february

• Thursday, Feb. 9, 4–7 p.m. Museum and Me

A quieter time for children and adults who experience

physical, intellectual and/or social disabilities to enjoy the High Desert Museum after hours. Explore the museum’s newest exhibits and revisit your favorites. Free for individuals, friends and family. RSVP at high desertmuseum.org/ museum-and-me-february

• Saturday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Family Saturday – everyone gets free admission.

• Saturday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Family Saturday – everyone gets free admission.

On-going exhibitions

• “Under the Snow” through May 7

In the depth of winter, a deep layer of snow quiets the High Desert’s forests. But just under the surface, a secret world has come to life. In this seasonal refuge, called the subnivium, animals create a matrix of tunnels to survive the winter’s frigid temperatures and hide from the predators that lurk above. Using interactive graphics, visitors will meet some of the species that depend on the snow, including a resilient mammal named pika, an observant owl called great gray, and a fruiting fungus known as Fuzzy Foot. Join the High Desert Museum to explore the hidden world beneath the snow. Free with museum admission. Learn more: highdesertmuseum.org/ under-the-snow • “In the Arena: Photographs from America’s Only Touring Black Rodeo” through June 25

As long as there have been

cowboys, there have been Black cowboys. One of the most enduring symbols of the American West, the cowboy evokes self-reliance, strength and determination – qualities found at the Black rodeos held each year across the United States. Through the lens of San Francisco Bay area photographer Gabriela Hasbun, this exhibit documents the exhilarating atmosphere of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo – the only touring Black rodeo in the country – and the showstopping style and skill of the Black cowboys and cowgirls who attend the event year after year. Free with admission. Learn more: highdesertmuseum.org/ in-the-arena • “ Creations of Spirit ”

through Oct. 1

For many Native communities throughout the High Desert, what constitutes art spans beyond the walls of a gallery or a museum. Objects are alive, tied to purpose and intrinsic to thriving communities. Art is at once utilitarian and ceremonial, as well as part of the continuation of Native traditions. Experience artwork by Indigenous Plateau artists created to gather roots, be worn in ceremonies and teach future generations. It shares the meanings cultural items hold to Plateau people and their purpose and ongoing relationships with contemporary communities. Free with admission. Learn more: highdesertmuseum.org/ creations-of-spirit

Firewood rule too regulatory

By Jeff Callison

I am writing to wholly support the opinions and comments made by the two letters in the December Scene about the proposed firewood rule changes (authors Tom Kelley and David Dittman). I think the entire process just goes too far and is too regulatory in its efforts. I believe the intent may be ok, but the implementation is too much. I am really concerned about why storing firewood between trees is such an issue. It looks nice and orderly. As long as it is done tastefully and not to delineate a “fencing” feature, then why not? If firewood stacks are to be 30’ away from houses, and away from trees, what is this going to look like as I admire the open spaces around my property and around my neighbors? I envision random stacks of firewood, not unlike slash piles from logging operations, placed throughout our forest! Let’s slow this down, take it down a couple of notches, and work on the very few lots which need a bit of fixing.

Scene Opinion Policy

To support a free and open exchange of information and ideas, the Sunriver Scene welcomes letters to the editor up to 200 words, and Chorus of One submissions up to 400 words, on topics of relevance to Sunriver. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the Sunriver Owners Association.

TO SUBMIT: Email: susanb@srowners.org. Submit letter in the body of the email, or attach it as a Word document.

DEADLINE: e 12th of the month. We accept one letter per person per month.

Michael “Mike” Brannan was born to Dr. M K Patrick Brannan and Ruth Denison Brannan on Dec. 14, 1935. He joined his devoted parents and his older sister, Patricia Ruth at their home in Los Angeles, California. Four years later, he gained a second sister, Nora Jean.

At age 8, his parents moved the family to Lakewood, Colorado, near Denver, where Mike spent most of his childhood. The highlights of each summer were his family’s month-long camping trips in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. They hiked, fished, built rafts, bathed in the snow-melt lakes, made friends with sheep herders, other campers, and shared huckleberries with the black bears.

Mike and his family moved a couple of times during his high school years as they moved to Texas then to Emmett, Idaho, where he graduated from high school. He made the wise decision to attend the University of Idaho where he was a Navy ROTC midshipman and earned his degree in mechanical engineering. After graduation he started working for Hyster Company in Portland, Oregon, where he was involved in designing heavy construction and material handling equipment. He became a certified mechan-

ical engineer and then earned his master’s degree in business from the University of Portland. Mike became the service manager for Freightliner Corporation. This company was purchased by Daimler Benz. He enjoyed many friendships, both at work and on the golf courses at Hyster and Freightliner.

During these years Mike served on the board of directors of the Association for Automotive Service Excellence which involved many board meetings all around the country. He served as President of ASE and even brought the ASE annual board meeting to Sunriver.

While in college, he met Doris Elaine Gissel, of Payette, Idaho. They married in 1959 and lived in the Portland area while raising three children: Thomas, Julie and William.

In 1976 the family moved to West Linn where the children attended school. In 1998, Mike and Doris moved to Sunriver. Shortly thereafter, he ran for the SROA Board or Directors. As board vice president (2001-2002) and president (2002-2003), he worked to establish the Sunriver Service District. He served on several SROA committees including Finance, Covenants and Public Works committees and Judicial Council. He also served on the Sunriver Service District Managing Board.

Mike was loyal to his family, home, country, and his Catholic faith. A well-lived life!

A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Feb. 11 at Sunriver Christian Fellowship’s new sanctuary (18139 Cottonwood Road).

vacationrental? Doyouowna

Mike

A Memorial Service will be held: February 11, 11 a.m. Sunriver Christian Fellowship Sanctuary 18139 Cottonwood Road Sunriver, Oregon

classifieds

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

Stop in Wild Poppy Florist for custom arrangements. We also carry locally-made gifts. Delivery available to Sunriver, Three Rivers, Bend and La Pine. Call 541-593-2027 or online at www.bendoregonflorist.com Thank you for your support!

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Residential

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AUTO WELLS

HOME RESTORATION & UPGRADES

Kitchen, bath and living space. Custom railings, gates and metalwork. Affordable, custom craftsmanship. Call Ken Olson Building and Design, LLC. 541-213-8861

Licensed/Insured CCB #205419

AUTO OLSON

SNOW REMOVAL

Driveway snow plowing and snow blowing. No contracts; on call work only. General contracting, licensed, bonded, insured since 1992. CCB #97643, Tubs Alive, Inc. 541-593-5163

AUTO TUBS

HOUSEKEPING

Nancy’s Resort Cleaning. Back-tobacks, deep cleans, live-in cleans, COVID cleans. Call or text 541213-0399. Ask for Nancy. Email: rrs30@netzero.net PD 05/23 KIRKPATRICK