e fungi is coming! Save the date for the Fungi Fest at the Sunriver Nature Center
Page 12
SROA Board of Directors election results
Here are the results of the 2024 candidate election for three seats on the SROA Board of Directors.
The new directors will serve a three-year term starting in September.
The candidates receiving the most votes are:
• Brad Banta
• Roni Jacknow
• Randy Schneider
Sunriver Library reopens; celebration planned in September
After six years of planning and nearly 10 months of construction, the Sunriver Library is turning the page on a new era. The newly remodeled library officially reopened on Aug. 20, with a grand opening celebration slated for Saturday, Sept. 14, from noon to 2 p.m.
“We are so excited to welcome customers back into the library,” said Sunriver Library Operations Supervisor Heidi Powers. “So much is new – from the children’s space to the community room – but things like the high-beamed ceiling and fireplace area will be familiar. It’s the perfect blend of beloved elements and new enhancements that really bring us into the 21st century.”
Updates to the Sunriver Library include an all-new children’s discovery space designed to engage young learners and spark their imagination. A new study room provides a place for the public to meet, something that was repeatedly requested during the planning phase. The all-new community room, now located on southwest corner of the building, features state-of-the art technology as well as a retractable glass wall to allow for flexibility of use, including after-hours access. An electric fireplace
Tunnel replacement, road work to take place in the coming weeks
SROA NEWS – The replacement of another tunnel will soon begin on Abbot Drive just south of Circle 2 and adjacent to the Wildflower Condos
Construction is expected to start in mid-September with the tunnel completed in November, weather permitting. This will be fourth replacement of Sunriver’s 13 aging tunnels. During construction there will be no through traffic on Abbot Drive between Circle 2 and Circle 1. Detours will be in
Sunriver Police Chief Lopez talks about department goals, challenges and more
Page 24
place and route traffic via Theater Drive off Circle 2.
Island Road will remain open during construction with local access off Circle 2 to the following:
• North end Wildflower Condos off Brassie & Mashie lanes
• Meadow House Condos 1-65
• Salishan
• Oakmont
Woodlands course leaking golf lake to undergo repairs
What’s worse than a sand trap and a water trap? Maybe the mud trap formerly known as “Lake 9” on the Woodlands golf course. In recent seasons, this water feature has struggled to maintain adequate water levels, due in large part to a series of leaks that cause the pond to lose up to 1 million gallons of water weekly.
In September, Sunriver Utilities will begin work to fully drain and excavate the pond in order to install a new liner. The goal of the project is to restore Lake 9 back to its traditional conditions while providing a long-term and sustainable solution that limits leakage and conserves water for other uses. The project is expected to be complete by the end of November.
During the construction period, the bike path will be closed from the entrance off of Winners Circle to the south at the path intersection located between Lake 9 and the tennis courts in order to give crews access to the site. Construction will be limited to days and work hours as defined by the Sunriver Owners Association.
The pond relies on treated water, or effluent, from the Sunriver Wastewater Treatment Plant. This non-potable water also is used for irrigation of the courses and for watering hay fields at the treatment plant’s compost site. Limited supplies and competing uses, coupled with the pond’s leakage, meant that constantly refilling it was not a sustainable solution.
“We know Lake 9 is an important amenity to owners and guests, and we appreciate your patience as we implement a permanent fix to the drainage problem,” said Spencer Mitchell, Sunriver Utilities general manager. Sunriver Utilities provides water and wastewater services to the communities of Sunriver, Caldera Springs, Crosswater and Vandevert Ranch. For information and updates on this project, visit www. sunriverutilties.com.
SUSAN BERGER PHOTO
Effluent 'Lake 9' on the Woodlands golf course will be worked on this fall/winter.
The inside of Sunriver Library following a 10-month remodel.
Sunriver, Caldera Springs & Crosswater
In partnership with Sunriver Resort and Sunriver Resort Vacation Properties, we leverage our unique access and knowledge to serve clients in ways no other brokerage can.
From our roots in Sunriver to being the exclusive brokerage for new development sales at Caldera Springs and our access to Crosswater, Sunriver Realty has become the go-to for real estate, vacation home rentals, and property management in our community. Whether you’re looking to purchase a primary residence, a vacation home, or invest in a rental property, Sunriver Realty has the expertise and resources to support you every step of the way, redefining the brokerage model in our hometown market.
We are ready to listen to your needs, answer your questions, and be your trusted advisor.
Ladder Fuel pick up season to end in October
SCENE
September 2024
Volume XLVII, No. 9
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.
All 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 Specialist
Shae Callewaert | 541.593.6068 shaec@srowners.org
Communications Specialist
Kristine Thomas | 541.585.2939 kristinet@srowners.org
SROA NEWS – Haven’t rid your yard yet of ladder fuels for this spring and summer? It’s time to get to work as the annual ladder fuels pickup program, offered by the Sunriver Owners Association Public Works Department, will soon end for the year with the last pickup in October.
This service is provided only to individual Sunriver property owners for reduction of ladder fuels. Owners who use a contractor or any contractors doing work on private property are responsible for disposal of all debris they create. Vegetative materials generated for building construction is also the responsibility of the owner (and their contractor) and will not be removed by SROA.
How long it crews takes to reach your lane will depend on the amount of materials to be collected and other projects crews might be working on.
Please observe the following:
• Ladder fuel materials must be at roadside by the first of
the month.
• There is no need to call. All Sunriver roads will be checked.
• Cut tree branches to eightfoot maximum lengths.
• Stack brush next to and parallel with the road edge so equipment can reach it without going off road.
• Be careful to not stack near or on top of electric/telephone/ cable boxes, water/sewer valves
and meters, big rocks or sprinklers.
• Bagged materials will NOT be collected.
• SROA does not pick up pine needles, grass, leaves or small branches. If you try to include this material the pile will be left.
Grass clippings, pine needles, or other organic materials, can be taken to the following
facilities. Hours may vary, so call first.
• Sunriver Utilities composting site off Cottonwood Road (541-593-4197)
• La Pine Transfer Station (541-317-3163)
• Knott Landfill, Bend (541388-1910)
For more information about the SROA ladder fuels pickup program, visit www. sunriverowners.org/lfrpickup
provides a focal point and cozy space to read, and all-new public computers and updated Wi-Fi give customers essential access to high-speed internet.
“There is definitely a sense of anticipation to the opening of the remodeled library,” said Deschutes Public Library Board member Anne Ness.
“The community will have
the opportunity to explore the new children’s discovery area, take advantage of the expanded meeting and tutoring spaces and computer workstations, and so much more. We look forward to welcoming our users to this newly energized library.”
While the Sunriver Library resumed normal operations on Aug. 20, a public grand opening celebration is slated for Saturday, Sept. 14, from noon to 2 p.m. Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the
public will be welcomed into the brand-new space, where they’ll find live music, a balloon artist, fun with the GlinWood Fae and more.
In November 2020, Deschutes County voters supported the library’s bond measure to expand and improve libraries across the county. In addition to updating existing libraries in Downtown Bend, East Bend, La Pine, Sisters and Sunriver, the bond is funding the design and construction
of a new Central Library at Stevens Ranch to serve all Deschutes County residents, with construction now well underway and doors opening to the public in 2026. Bond funds are also being used to build a new Redmond Library that doubles the square footage of the previous building. It’s expected to open December. For more information about building and remodeling projects, visit https://dpl.pub/ futurelibraries.
Limbs that are properly stacked at roadside edge for pickup by SROA Public Works.
sroa president’s message OWNERS ASSOCIATION
September is a month of transitions.
The SROA Board welcomes three new members: Brad Banta, Veronica Jacknow and Randy Schneider. These board members will officially join the board at our September meeting. In parallel, the board voted at our August meeting to fill the vacancy left by Scott Gillies, who resigned when he sold his Sunriver home, to Keith Mobley. We are extremely fortunate that Mr. Mobley has volunteered to serve for an additional two years. As I noted in my column last month, Mr. Mobley has served the Sunriver community in a variety of capacities over the past six years. His wealth of knowledge of Sunriver and his experience on other nonprofit boards has benefited SROA and the Sunriver community.
Simultaneously, a transition is taking place on the Sunriver Service District (SSD) Board. Tony De Alicante and I have served on this board for the past three and five years, respectively. In addition to our terms ending, the SSD Board and Deschutes County have
agreed to an updated management agreement under which the SSD Board operates. While there are simple clarifications in the new agreement, the most significant changes are to reduce the board membership from seven to five. The two positions eliminated are the ones that have historically been assigned to two SROA Board members. In lieu of these two positions, the new agreement provides SROA with one ex-officio (non-voting) position. This ex-officio board member will be able to participate in all SSD Board meetings, except for executive sessions. Randy Schneider has volunteered to serve as the SROA ex-officio member on the SSD Board.
As SSD board members, Tony and I were not in favor of these changes. The SROA Board voiced its concern with the SSD Board and the County Commissioners. However, concern about potential conflicts of interest and a desire for a bit more independence from SROA, the SSD board and the
County Commissioners voted to approve the changes. While SSD Board members have been clear that they are in favor of maintaining the relationship and interaction between the two boards, it will take additional effort under the new arrangement. The SSD remains a critical partner in the Sunriver community and SROA and the SROA Board will do whatever we can to maintain open communications on those issues that are critical to Sunriver owners.
Speaking of the future, now is the time for you to have your voice heard with respect to the proposed strategic plan that is currently out for owner review. This strategic plan is the product of the creativity and effort of a group of 32 individuals, representing all aspects of our community, who invested multiple hours of their time over the past year. Let me first express my deepest appreciation to all who contributed to this important document, and more importantly, their ideas expressed within.
Sunriver is a unique community which has maintained its desirability over the past 56 years, as the home for nearly 2,000 residents, as well as
continuing to be the premier vacation spot in the Pacific Northwest. This has only been possible through the dedication of owners, investors, community businesses, and professional service organizations like Sunriver Service District and SROA. Working together, these Sunriver stakeholders have kept our community economically vibrant, attractive, and safe. Sunriver is a place where a firsttime visitor introduces their family and friends to the magic of Sunriver, which is then passed on to subsequent generations. Those of us who live and recreate in Sunriver today, owe a deep sense of gratitude to those who developed and maintained the unique beauty, tranquility, and recreational opportunity that is Sunriver today.
This strategic plan is our opportunity to pass on to future owners, visitors and residents, our vision for Sunriver. The owners, staff, businesses, and service providers who wrote this strategic plan have created a roadmap for current and future decision makers as a guide for keeping Sunriver as the premier residential community and destination resort in the Northwest. Let us know if you agree or see opportunities for improvement.
Highlights of the SROA Board of Directors monthly meeting
The Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Board of Directors meeting was held Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024.
Board members present: Gerhard Beenen, Bill Burke, Mark Murray, Keith Mobley, Clark Pederson, Tony De Alicante, Julianna Hayes and Linda Beard.
Staff present: James Lewis, Jesus Mendoza.
Owners forums (summarized)
From Aug. 16 work session
• Kathleen Turner Meyer spoke on behalf of the Sunriver Women’s Club. The club is more than 50 years old and has approximately 400 members. The club has numerous fundraising avenues, including a legacy brick program at SHARC with professional installation by SROA Public Works. The club gratefully thanks the public works crews for their work on this project.
• Randy Schneider initially felt an SROA election audit was a waste of money but now feels it was money well spent. He also shared thoughts on filling the vacant seat with the fourth
highest vote getter.
• Bruce Bischof is against creating any sort of task force to evaluate incorporating Sunriver. Bischof was involved in the last incorporation attempt, and it created a great division within the community. He made an appeal that the board not commit any association funds to create another form of government and that incorporation will never work for Sunriver.
• Ray Johnson has concerns on the lack of headlights and reflectors on bicycles. He wants SROA to work proactively to put headlights on all rental bikes. The Johnsons will contribute matching funds and work with the rental companies to install the lights and be a part of the solution.
• Read letters into record from five owners:
–Paul Conte regarding fencing standards and plant protections.
–Josh Lawson regarding the Recreation Plus Program, rising costs and smoke closures.
–Tom Lorence regarding the proposed Strategic Plan and pathway safety concerns.
SROA Financial Report
Year to date through July 31, 2024 (unaudited)
Total Operating Revenue...................................$8,212,813
Total Operating Expenses*................................$8,094,644
–Aaron Coldiron regarding the recycling center and sideyard recycling and the need to keep the recycling center.
–Laura Green regarding Sunriver Resort’s golf membership and the increase in cost.
From Aug. 17 regular meeting
• Bill Hepburn wants to improve safety in Sunriver following two recent incidents in which people barricaded themself inside a home and fired and or threatened the use of weapons. Hepburn said his family has been directly affected by the resident who fired a gun in the home and that he no longer feels safe in the community. He believes rules need to be improved and aggressively enforced. He noted there is a need to keep Sunriver owners safe from other Sunriver owners.
By Clark Pederson
How do SROA finances look at mid-year 2024 versus our budget? I am pleased to report our finances are in good shape. In our day-to-day operating account, revenues yearto-date are ahead of budget by $18,000. This is due to increases in the Sunriver Scene advertising revenue, SHARC event revenue, SHARC gate admissions, ladder fuel compliance fines, and additional revenue from property transfer fees as the number of properties changing hands has been higher than expected.
Sales of Membership Preference Program (MPP) and Recreation Plus Program (RPP), are 80.6% and 92.3% of our budget forecast. Experience suggests that MMP percentages will continue to climb as owners renew in July and August as they come to enjoy Sunriver. RPP revenue will not meet our projections this year as one of the local property management companies decided not to buy RPP passes for 40 of its homes. Instead, they are reimbursing renters up to a dollar amount for their purchase of SHARC entry fees or several other recreational opportunities. We expect gate revenue will be above budget for the year as some of those renters pay cash at the gate.
Board actions
• Approved minutes of the June 26, 2024 SROA special board meeting.
• Approved minutes of the July 19, 2024 SROA work session meeting.
• Approved minutes of the July 20, 2024 SROA regular board meeting.
• Approved July 2024 unaudited financial report.
• Approved the Finance Committee’s recommendation to authorize SROA controller to purchase up to $2.5 million in U.S. Treasuries with maturities of two to five years.
• Approved recommendation from the Finance Committee to allocate $575,000 total project cost for the SROA administrative building remodel in 2025.
Expenses in our operating account are under budget by $95,600. Most of this is due to unfilled staff positions during the first half of the year. The accumulated savings we have in staff will likely hold through the year, continuing to be a positive contributor to our performance versus budget. While expenses on the operating side were under budget, several costs were over budget. Legal fees were over budget by $58,000. SROA has been subject to two lawsuits and threats of lawsuits which have increased our legal expenses. We have also filed legal proceedings against several owners for collection of fines. While those are reimbursable expenses upon collection of the fines, we pay the costs upfront.
A second expense where we are over budget is materials and services, $42,500, due to January sanding cinder/deicer costs, pool chemical costs, fuel and building supplies.
On the non-operating side, revenues were ahead of budget
Gerhard Beenen
SROA Compliance Corner: Help to keep Sunriver in the dark
To quote Gizmo from the 1984 cult classic film Gremlins, “Bright light! Bright light!”
Sunriver has long been known as a magnificent place to live and vacation, having numerous natural amenities to enjoy. One of the largest natural amenities is its view of the night sky. In 2020, Sunriver received the distinction of being the first International Dark Sky Place recognized in the state of Oregon. A large part
Highlights
• Certified the 2024 election results with Brad Banta, Roni Jacknow and Randy Schneider elected for a three-year term to the SROA Board of Directors.
• Approved OFLA policy changes to the SROA Employee Handbook to be compliant with state law.
• Approved addition of BOLI respectful workplace policy to the SROA Employee Handbook as a best practice.
• Tabled acknowledgement of the SROA/SSD/Deschutes County Management Agreement to the September meeting.
• Recommended Randy Schneider as ex-officio (nonvoting) position to the Sunriver Service District Managing Board per the SSD/SROA/ Deschutes County Management Agreement.
• Approved Keith Mobley to fill the remaining two-year seat on the SROA Board of Directors vacated by Scott Gillies, who sold his home and moved out of the Sunriver community.
• Approved addition of language to Section 6.08 of the Design Manual of Rules & Procedures. This language, regarding appeals to the Appeals Board and the scope of its review authority, was accidentally omitted during the revision process of the new manual.
• Approved recommendations from the Design Committee amending Sections 4.03, 5.02 and 5.03 of the Design Manual of Rules & Procedures to add fencing requirements for multi-residential, commercial, resort, village and private nonresidential properties.
Committee action requests
• Approved appointment of Doris Brannan to the Covenants Committee.
Other business
• Keith Mobley and Mark Murray were thanked for their contributions and service to the Finance Committee.
• Thanked exiting board
of that distinction comes from the fact that the Sunriver design rules and the community as a whole work to prevent light polluting the night sky. According to DarkSky.org, “light pollution is the humanmade alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. When we over light, fail to use timers and sensors, or use the wrong color of light, we can negatively affect many parts of our world…”.
members Tony De Alicante and Julianna Hayes for their service to the SROA board.
Association operations
• Administration: Met with landscape architects regarding Winners Circle park design, landscaping for new Public Works building and a conceptual Fort Rock Park master plan. Follow up review with staff on the designs for future remodeling at SROA’s admin building and SHARC. Multiple meetings for wage analysis. This included internal staff meetings with some department heads for response to consultant. Met with Sunriver Utilities, Sunriver Resort and owners regarding Pond 9 to better hold water. Ongoing meetings with TDS on fiber infrastructure installation. Coordinated with Sunriver Police regarding an enforcement/ criminal issue.
• Accounting: Continue billing process for fiber-tothe-home accounts as they are hooked up. Invoiced annual RV/storage space. Processing recreation receipts.
• Communications: Designing various marketing pieces for Uncorked. Designed new rack cards for SHARC and event space brochure for Benham Hall. Created signage and banner for Oct. 31 closure of the recycling center. Also posted closure information to the website, NextDoor, social media platforms and notified property managers and other businesses. Created signage of rules related to use of SHARC’s floating “cookie” logs and shark in the leisure pool (too much rough housing going on). Designed noxious weed postcards for Natural Resources to mail to non-compliant properties.
• Community Development: There are 124 active building projects. Continue to modify new application forms and handouts. There are 99 homes identified as needing painting with a third letter sent to those property owners. The Design Committee drafted a rule relative to fencing on non-single residential properties. Proposed
As a means of combating light pollution in the community, the Sunriver Owners Association Design Committee Manual of Rules and Procedures specifically speaks on how to minimize the impact of exterior lights on one’s property. Rules outlined in Section 3.19 of the manual are intended to eliminate glare and annoyance to adjacent property owners, passersby and to maintain night sky views in Sunriver.
rule change of magistrate procedures/citation form has been given to the Covenants Committee for review.
• Natural Resources: Continue to inspect private property for noxious weeds. Prepared and mailed noxious week deficiency letters and courtesy letters. Sprayed noxious weeds on commons. Planned 24th annual War on Weeds scheduled for Aug. 1-14.
• IT: Intermittent hardware issues with POS devices at SHARC with temporary fixes applied. Database engineer Gabe Rice has left for another job and interviews have begun to find a replacement. In the interim we are using a third party for database support. Met with TetraTech to discuss GIS mapping and data input via an iPad. Continued training to learn how to migrate SROA’s on-premises database to a cloud-based solution.
• Public Works: Dog park drinking fountain has been installed. Wood chips were also spread at the dog park to help alleviate dust. New pathway kiosk installations continue while still waiting on the maps themselves. All sport courts cleaned weekly with extra care for tournaments. Fort Rock Park ballfield graded, and new bases installed. Circle 2-3 pathway evaluations in process. Received bids for full-depth road project this fall, including Circle 7, Sun Eagle and drive lanes for Public Works. Outdoor pool heater at SHARC replaced. UV unit maintenance and repairs completed at Members Pool.
• Recreation/SHARC: Record temperatures required extra heat precautions for staff. Heat and smoke caused complicated operations with eight modified days (delayed open/ early close) and one full closure day in July. SHARC slides will close for the season and refinishing to start Sept. 3. Plans in full swing for upcoming pickleball tournament and Uncorked events in September. Trying to fill an open aquatic supervisor position.
The meeting adjourned at 11:05 a.m.
The Community Development Department is charged with assisting owners in keeping their properties compliant with the rules, with exterior lighting being one of the top owner concerns and compliance issues reported. As a property owner you can combat light pollution by doing the following:
• Ensure all approved exterior lights are shielded and that the light rays are directed downward.
The next SROA board work session will take place at 9 a.m. Sept. 20 followed by the regular board meeting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21. To watch the meeting live via YouTube, or at a later time,
• Remove string lights, as they are prohibited.
• Remove landscape lights that face up.
• Put timers on exterior lights.
• Ensure exterior light bulb temperatures and lumens are within an appropriate range. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to SROA’s Community Development Department at designinfo@ srowners.org
Happy star gazing!
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
Local poet, author named Oregon's 11th Poet Laureate
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has named Ellen Waterston of Bend, a celebrated poet, writer, teacher and speaker who founded the Writing Ranch and the Waterston Desert Writing Prize, to a two-year appointment as Oregon Poet Laureate. Waterston will be Oregon’s 11th Poet Laureate and succeeds Anis Mojgani, who has held the post since 2020.
"Ellen Waterston stands out for her commitment to community engagement, her focus on bringing different ways of living and different parts of the state together, and her notable ability to describe the moments, places and people that make Oregon, Oregon,” Gov. Kotek said. “I am eager to see how she applies her talents in the literary arts to serving the state as Oregon’s eleventh poet laureate."
Much of Waterston’s awardwinning poetry and prose is inspired by the remote reaches of southeastern Oregon’s Outback. She has published four poetry titles: “I Am Madagascar,” “Between Desert Seasons,” “Vía Lactéa,” and “Hotel Domilocos.”
Poet and author John Calderazzo described Waterson’s work by saying, “In a world of both staggering beauty and loss, from the tropics to the high desert, Ellen Waterston offers us intimate conversations among heart, mind and place, stories that speak to hope, re-
covery and joy.”
Lawson Fusao Inada, Oregon’s fifth Poet Laureate, wrote, “The truth is: Ellen Waterston’s poems arrive. They situate themselves naturally, to proceed in compelling, telling ways. Each poem leaves something behind.”
Waterston’s poems have ap-
peared in anthologies and journals, been featured on Writer’s Almanac and landed her numerous fellowships, grants and residencies. Her poetry awards include the WILLA Award for two of her collections and the Obsidian Prize for Poetry. Waterston is currently completing a fifth collection featuring a
series of commissioned poems celebrating remote locations across the West.
“Inspired by the example of the Poets Laureate who have preceded me, I am eager to share my love of poetry, place and the power of the written word with Oregon’s diverse audiences,” Waterston said,
“and to kindling creativity and community as I go.”
Poetry has always been at the center of Waterston’s writing, but she is also the published author of three award-winning literary nonfiction titles: “Walking the High Desert,” “Where the Crooked River Rises,” and “Then There Was No Mountain.” “We Could Die Doing This,” a collection of essays, will be published fall 2024.
In addition to her work as an author, Waterston founded the for-profit Writing Ranch, offering retreats and workshops for established and emerging writers, and the Bend-based literary arts nonprofit, The Nature of Words, which she directed for over a decade. She subsequently founded the Waterston Desert Writing Prize, annually recognizing a nonfiction book proposal that examines the role of deserts in the human narrative, now a program of The High Desert Museum. She has instructed creative writing at high school and undergraduate levels and authored the original feasibility study for OSU Cascades Low Residency MFA in Creative Writing, where she now teaches.
Her work as an author and literary arts advocate was earlier recognized with an honorary Ph.D. in Humane Letters from OSU-Cascades and, in 2024, with both the Literary Arts of Oregon’s Stewart H. Holbrook Award and Soapstone’s Bread and Roses Award.
“We celebrate Ellen Waterston for her work creating a vibrant literary life east of the Cascades,” Soapstone
said. “She created unique and important events, focused attention on the
and mentored numerous writers while writing poetry and nonfiction works that have become an essential part of the literature of Oregon and the West.”
Waterston received a bachelor of arts from Harvard University and a master of arts in archaeology from the University of Madagascar. She has three children and three grandchildren and lives in Central Oregon.
A 20-person committee of writers, poets and cultural leaders reviewed Poet Laureate nominations earlier this year; the committee’s top candidates were submitted to the Governor for her consideration.
The Oregon Poet Laureate fosters the art of poetry, encourages literacy and learning, addresses central issues relating to humanities and heritage, and reflects on public life in Oregon. Waterston will provide at least 10 public readings per year in settings across the state to inform community, business and state leaders about the value and importance of poetry and creative expression. The program is funded by the Oregon Cultural Trust and administered by Oregon Humanities.
Past Oregon Poets Laureate are: Edwin Charles Markham (1921–1940); Ben Hur Lampman (1951–1954); Ethel Romig Fuller (1957–1965); William Stafford (1974–1989); Lawson Inada (2006–2010); Paulann Petersen (2010-2014); Peter Sears (2014-2016); Elizabeth Woody (2016-2018); Kim Stafford (2018-2020); and Anis Mojgani (2020-2024).
WOW volunteers help to protect Sunriver’s natural environment
SROA NEWS – Sunriver residents and visitors will experience a more beautiful and healthier community next summer thanks to the tremendous efforts volunteers made here last month. Between Aug. 1-14, 2024, more than 35 dedicated owners participated in SROA’s 24th Annual War on Weeds (WOW).
Spreading across hundreds of acres of Sunriver common areas, these volunteers located, pulled, and bagged tens of thousands of Spotted knapweed plants, the most common and pervasive noxious weed in Sunriver. Considering that an average spotted knapweed plant produces 1,000 seeds –with a large plant producing up to 25,000 seeds – every one
year's
of these unwanted invaders eliminated by our volunteers significantly reduces its future presence in Sunriver.
Noxious weeds displace na-
tive vegetation and are disruptive to wildlife habitat. By controlling spotted knapweed and removing the plants before they go to seed, volunteers are ensur-
ing that penstemon, lupine, aster, spirea, and other wildflowers have the opportunity to flourish in our landscapes, and that the birds, insects and small mammals that depend on these plants for nutrition and shelter can thrive.
SROA’s War on Weeds program enables volunteers to participate as their schedule and interests allow. Online registration forms and identification guides, digital maps, supplies such as bags provided by SROA’s partner SOLVE, and bag pick-up services add convenience and flexibility to the program. New volunteers
are always welcome.
“WOW volunteers are absolutely critical in our fight to control noxious weeds in Sunriver’s common areas,” SROA Director of Natural Resources Patti Gentiluomo said, “and their contribution is so appreciated. We couldn’t do this without them.”
Thank you and congratulations to all of our generous volunteers for a job well done. For more information or to get involved in the War on Weeds next year, contact SROA’s Natural Resources Department at 541-593-1522 or email natural resources@srowners.org.
With most high school and college-age lifeguards returning to school in September, SHARC’s aquatic offerings will change to its fall/winter schedule after Labor Day. Here are the aquatic offerings between Sept. 3 and Sept. 22 for SHARC and SROA’s Member Pool. Outdoor aquatic access is weather dependent. SHARC Recreation Swim (The slides and lazy river closed for the season for maintenance)
• Monday-Thursday 2 to
5:30 p.m. indoor/outdoor pools
• Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. indoor/outdoor pools
SHARC Lap Swim
• Monday-Sunday 7 to 9 a.m. indoor and outdoor
• Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. indoor and outdoor Member Pool Lap Swim
• Daily 7 to 9 a.m.
Recreation swim is not available. Members must use SHARC for recreation swim.
This
pile of noxious weeds collected by volunteers.
Sunriver rules regarding golf carts on roadways
SROA NEWS – Under Sunriver Rules & Regulations
Section 2.04, golf carts shall be operated only on golf courses and roadways or as specifically designated and permitted by the SROA board:
• Only during daylight hours;
• As close to the right side of the roadway as practical; and
• With a slow-moving vehicle emblem conforming to the requirements of the Oregon Mo-
• Augusta
• Doral
• Colonial
• Makaha
• Olympic
• Spyglass
Access to south end Wildflower Condos located on Wild Lily Lane and Sunriver Resort’s human resources offices will be from the south end of Abbot
tor Vehicles Division, displayed without obstruction on the rear of the golf cart.
The rules also stipulate that whenever a golf cart is impeding a vehicle, the golf cart operator shall turn right into the first available road or lane and allow the motor vehicle to pass.
Violation of Section 2.04 constitutes a Class F ($20) offense and/or revocation of recreation access privileges.
Drive from Circle 1 only.
The original corrugated tunnels have been in place since the original build of Sunriver between the late 1960s through the 1980s. The tunnels are narrow and only allowed one way traffic at any given time. The new, concrete tunnels are wider and will accommodate two-way bicycle and pedestrian traffic.
You can view a larger road/ pathway closure map on the website at www.sunriver
Missed attending the SROA’s annual membership meeting? No worries as it was video recorded and is available for viewing on the SROA website at www.sunriverowners.org/annualmeeting.
owners.org/tunnel
Fall road and overlay work
Sun Eagle Lane and Circle 7 to Pro Staff will receive full depth reclamation and paving starting in September. All work is weather dependent.
Flaggers will be in place to direct traffic for those who need to reach the Aquila Condos via Sun Eagle, the recycling center or Public Works office. During paving the road will be closed
and alternative parking will be available.
Traffic on Circle 7 to Pro Staff will be limited during full depth and closed during paving.
Overlay work will affect roads Mugho, Beech, West Warbler, Yankee Mountain and Fir Cone.
The details of road closures can be found on the website at www.sunriverowners.org/ roadwork
by $46,600. A major portion is from interest earned on our reserve balance with interest rates staying higher for longer than expected. Another positive contribution was better than expected payoffs of the original SHARC building assessments as more than a few properties that choose the 15-year payment schedule changed ownership and the assessments were paid off in transferring the property to new owners.
Expenses on the nonoperating side were very close to budget.
Our combined operating/ non-operating surplus ended June 30th at $1,180,985, which was $167,837 better than the budget. It was a good first half for Sunriver finances.
Many large expenses are still coming up in the fall as we spend large amounts of funds for paving and asphalt repair, ladder fuel reduction, our upcoming pathway tunnel replacement and completion of our public works building. These expenses could have an impact on our final budget.
–Clark Pederson is treasurer of the SROA Board of Directors and chair of the Finance Committee. pederson@srowners.org
owner enrichment activities
Sunriver You upcoming classes
Is your computer acting up or no longer meeting your needs?
Do you wonder if it’s time to get a new computer or would you like to be prepared for when the time comes?
If so, September's tech forum, “So, You Need a New PC”, is the ideal class for you.
Have you been considering establishing or increasing your philanthropic plan?
Note October’s “Beyond Checkbook Philanthropy: Creative and Tax-Wise Ways to Give” class.
The ever-popular Travel Forum series resumes in November with noteworthy Oregon travel experiences. A SROA Board Forum is being planned for late October, the date and
All Sunriver You classes require registration, which closes 24 hours before the class start time. Please visit sunriveryou.com to register.
topic are pending.
The Sunriver You committee members are continuing to plan fall classes. Do you suffer from FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)? Visit www.sunriveryou. com and read future Sunriver You articles in the Sunriver Scene to discover other opportunities to learn something new.
Yoga at Fort Rock Park
The Sunriver Owner Enrichment Committee is hosting weekly yoga classes at 9 a.m. Wednesday in Fort Rock Park through September. Classes will be held on the grass in a section of the park behind the playground area – just look for the signs.
Jen Nooteboom, a professional yoga instructor, will be conducting the classes. Bring your own mat and a $10 donation for each class you attend. The classes are open to all residents and visitors to Sunriver. No previous yoga experience is necessary, so come stretch those muscles before your hike, bike ride or other activities for the day.
Continue reading for class descriptions and presenter information and to get a preview of classes that are still being planned. All classes require registration through www. sunriveryou.com.
NOTE: Registration closes 24 hours prior to the class start time except for SROA forums, for which registration doesn’t close until well after the forum has begun.
Tech Forum: So, You Need a New PC
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 4 p.m. at SHARC. Presenters: Current SROA Board President and SSD Treasurer Gerhard Beenen and SROA IT Director Gary Seifert.
A Windows or MAC personal computer has a finite lifetime. Whether it’s aging hardware or the product of too many drops and spills, PCs wear out or reach the end of their useful life. Purchasing a new PC is both a significant investment and a complex purchase for those without a computer engineering degree. In this forum the presenters will break down key computer features based on how you use your PC to include how much processing power is sufficient for the applications you use, memory needed for current operating systems and applications, which interfaces (USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Eth-
ernet, etc.) are needed for applications use, plus how much and what type of storage (HD, SSD, M.2) you need. Whether you are a novice or an expert, they will provide you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed purchase choice. Participants who have a laptop are encouraged to bring it to the forum.
Gerhard Beenen, with more than 30 years of experience in the technology industry, has personally managed IT professionals and maintained IT networks. As a hobbyist, he has developed both web-based and iPhone applications that access public and private databases. He has read extensively about network security, spam/scams approaches and the financial impact of electronic communication scams on senior citizens.
Gary Seifert is a Navy veteran specializing in communications and electronics. He was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal for resolving IT Systems issues at the U.S. Embassy in Mombasa, Kenya. He has spent more than 30 years in technology, specifically IT Infrastructure at companies such as Tektronix, FICO, and Les Schwab. He and his wife, Kate, have resided in Bend since 2016 and are now empty nesters as their children have relocated to OSU and OHSU for degrees in computer science and nursing.
Beyond Checkbook
Philanthropy: Creative and Tax-Wise Ways to Give Tuesday Oct. 8, 4 p.m. at SHARC. Presenter: Julie Gregory
Join Julie Gregory, Oregon Community Foundation (OCF)’s Senior Philanthropic Advisor, to learn about creative opportunities to make a difference both now and through your estate plan, including how to turn assets into charitable dollars, how to create gifts that pay you income, how to take advantage of the tax benefits of giving, and ways to engage your family.
Julie Gregory works with individuals, families, organizations and businesses to establish charitable funds to support causes they care about. She also leads the coordination of OCF’s regional activities and strategies within Central and Eastern Oregon. She graduated from Washington and Lee University School of Law in Virginia and pursued a career in litigation and business representation in private practice and with the US Department of Justice before joining OCF 17 years ago. She has lived in Bend for 20 years and in addition to enjoying all the outdoor pursuits Central Oregon has to offer, she is passionate about the arts and has served as a Bend Cultural Tourism
bulb fall sale
Get ready for the 2024 daffodil bulb sale.
For the past two years, the Sunriver Owner Enrichment Committee (OEC) has sponsored daffodil bulb sales and distributed more than 5,600 bulbs to bring early spring color and joy to Sunriver. Why daffodils?
Because daffodils are beautiful harbingers of spring, and deer do not eat them.
This year, the OEC has ordered 3,000 daffodil bulbs from the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn. All the varieties this year feature large blooms and most are repeats from last year. Wooden Shoe is a family-run Oregon flower farm which grows 80 varieties of tulips along with daffodils
and perennials on its 40 acres.
Interested owners can preorder in the range of 20 (minimum) to 100 (maximum) at $1/bulb. Don’t want 20 – split the cost with a friend or a neighbor.
The bulbs are being sold at cost to the OEC.
Send an email to Sun -
riverDaffodils@gmail.com with the number of bulbs you want, your name and physical Sunriver address. Payment will be due by cash or check at the time of pick up. We will send final instructions in early October.
The current expectation is for owners to pick up their bulbs
from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at the SROA Administration parking lot. You cannot pre-select the bulbs you want since they are distributed on a first come, first served ba-
sis. Labeled bags are provided. You will simply show up, select your bulbs and fill your own order allotment.
It’s never too early to think flowers blooming next spring.
Fund Commissioner, a board member for Cascade Festival of Music and Arts Central, and an Advisory Committee member of the Tower Theatre, BendFilm, Caldera and the Waterston Writing Prize.
Travel Forum: LesserKnown ings to Do in Oregon Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 4 p.m. at SHARC. Presenter(s): TBD
The fall offering of the travel series will be noteworthy Oregon travel experiences that many others may not know about. If you or someone local you know has a place or
experience to share, photos that showcase it, and a willingness to be part of the panel of presenters, we’d love to
hear from you. Contact the travel forum group via email to lucyhilburn@gmail.com or johnvogel@mac.com.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Sunriver: Asbestos & FUDS
An environmental assessment performed in 2009 found small amounts of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) present in the soil at limited locations in Sunriver. The ACM are associated with Camp Abbot, a World War II U.S. Army camp located on the property that became Sunriver. Air testing has demonstrated that the ACM poses extremely low risk to people. Nevertheless, if ACM is encountered it must be properly managed and disposed of as required by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
What is ACM? Asbestos-containing material consists of building materials or other substances that contain one percent or more asbestos bers. Historically, ACM included oor tile, building siding, roo ng materials, automobile brake pads, insulation, wall texture, and many more materials.
What does the ACM in Sunriver look like? ACM encountered in Sunriver soil generally consists of shards of building siding and oor tile, commonly between 1 and 6 inches in diameter. Materials may be greenish gray, light gray or other colors, and commonly exhibit ribbed or grid patterns. Samples of ACM are available for viewing at the Sunriver Owners Association.
Where are the asbestos-containing materials? ACM has been encountered in discrete locations on common property in Sunriver. It typically has been found on the surface or within 12 inches of the surface. ACM has also been detected on a small number of private properties. It is possible that ACM are present in soil in other areas.
What should I do if I see it? Do not disturb suspected materials. Contact the Air Quality Program of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality at 541-633-2019 if suspect material is encountered on private property. Contact the Sunriver Owners Association at 541-593-1522 if suspect material is encountered on common areas.
Where can I find additional information? The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality can provide additional information about asbestos and ACM. Information also can be obtained from the DEQ Asbestos Program website www.deq.state.or.us/aq/asbestos/index.htm. The Sunriver Owners Association can provide additional information.
Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS)
If you ever receive a letter from the Department of the Army it is a periodic government advisement noti cation that your Sunriver property may have been part of a Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS), also known as Camp Abbot, and that munitions may be present on or near your property.
Camp Abbot was in operation as a military training site between 1943 and 1944 and included gas chambers, ri e/machine gun, grenade, mortar and anti-tank ranges. Should you nd possible munitions, you are advised not to touch it and call 911.
If you need further information, call toll-free 1-855-765-3837. For general information about the FUDS Program, visit www.fuds.mil
Camp Abbot/FUDS information is also available on the
at
Discover the enigmatic world of fungi at Fungi Fest 2024
By Kelli Neumann, SNCO Community Education & Conservation Manager
An ancient and mysterious kingdom flourishes around us, weaving a hidden web of life that connects, sustains, nurtures and transforms.
These diverse life forms, which habitat forests and grasslands to deep-sea vents and arctic tundras, play vital roles as decomposers, mutualists, pathogens and predators. This ever-expanding realm of fungi offers endless opportunities for discovery.
The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory in partnership with the Central Oregon Mushroom Club invites community members to delve into the fascinating fungi world at the annual Fungi Fest and Mushroom Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12.
The event features a day of educational lectures, demonstrations, mushroom-themed vendors, and a stunning display of hundreds of mushroom species native to Central Oregon.
Before the festival, SNCO
year's Fungi Fest poster illustration features a morchella fungi, commonly refered to as a morel.
will host a variety of fungithemed events, including a headline lecture, mushroom-
centric culinary experiences, and guided field trips. This year, Sunriver Nature Center is pleased to welcome Jeremy Collision, founder of Salish Sea Mushrooms.
An avid presence in Pacific Northwest forests since 2008, Collision is a key contributor to iNaturalist and organizes Seattle meetups for mushroom enthusiasts. Salish Sea Mushrooms offers ground classes, guided tours, and identification
guides, and Collision has developed expertise in cultivating gourmet mushroom species.
His lecture will cover the basics of mushroom identification and foraging, as well as insights into mushroom cultivation and culture libraries. Attendees also will have access to Salish Sea’s visualization and identification tools to help locate specific mushrooms.
The mushroom is the centerpiece of Fungi Fest. The mushroom is the visible fruiting body of fungi, primarily from the phylum Basidiomycota. These fascinating structures, which include a stem, cap, and gills, emerge above a substrate containing mycelium. The gills release spores that develop into new fungal mycelium.
Mushrooms are prized for their culinary value and health benefits, including high protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Some mushrooms have medicinal properties that boost immunity or lower cholesterol. Each year, with the help of the Central Oregon Mushroom Club, the staff at the Sunriver Nature Center gathers a diverse array of mushrooms from Pacific Northwest forests. Experts then identify and display them at Fungi Fest. You can contribute to this incredible showcase by joining one of our collection tours on Friday, Oct. 11. These guided tours, available in limited spots, will explore vari-
ous ecosystems around Central Oregon.
After a day of foraging and attending Collision's headline lecture, treat yourself to a gourmet mushroom-themed dining experience. Hosted by Sunriver Resort's Chef Joshua Hendricks, this exclusive fivecourse meal, paired with fine wines, promises a delicious exploration of nature’s culinary delights. Tickets and registration for events at Fungi Fest can be found at snco.org.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is located at 57245 River Road, Sunriver, off Circle 3, on the way to the airport and marina. For more information, volunteer opportunities, current hours, other programs, or questions: 541-593-4394 or www.snco.org
SNCO director positions finalized
Shannon Ries and Fish Williams, hired in July as interim executive director and interim finance director, respectively, quickly proved to be accomplished, engaged and enthusiastic additions to the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory staff, and they have both been hired as permanent directors for the organization. Brief bios on Ries and Williams was printed in the August Scene.
Astronomers
By Paul Poncy, Observatory Manager
Astronomers, both professional and amateur, are eagerly observing a small constellation in the night sky, anticipating a rare phenomenon known as a recurring nova.
This constellation is Corona Borealis or the Northern Crown.
The “new star” in question isn't new at all but rather a faint binary star system called T Coronae Borealis (T CrB for short), located about 3,000 light-years from Earth. Typically, too dim to be seen without a telescope, this star system may briefly shine as brightly as the North Star for about a week in September.
T Coronae Borealis, also known as the “Blaze Star,” consists of an older red giant and a small companion star, a white dwarf. This white dwarf, which could have the mass of our Sun but only the size of Earth, is a dense remnant of a dead star. It siphons hydrogen from its larger companion until the pressure and temperature become so intense that a thermonuclear reaction ignites.
This burst of energy may last only a few hours, but the afterglow can linger for about a week. On average, this buildup occurs over about 80 years. The last recorded eruption was in 1946, and recent observations suggest signs similar to those leading up to the 1946 event. Researchers estimate a September 2024 eruption, though, given the vast distance of 3,000 light-years and the event's infrequency, precise predictions are challenging. Thus, the erup-
tion might not occur exactly in September.
The recurring nova was likely first observed and documented in 1217 by a German abbot named Burchard. More recent observations from 1946 and 1866 provide the basis for current predictions regarding a T CrB eruption.
Corona Borealis is situated on a direct line between the two brightest stars visible in the early to late evenings of September: Arcturus and Vega. You can find Corona Borealis, a small half-circle about onethird of the way from Arcturus to Vega, using simple and free software like Stellarium.
Project Ponderosa fall sale is coming
Fall is the perfect time to plant a legacy that will last a lifetime… and beyond.
Come to the Sunriver Nature Center between Oct. 13-19 to pick out that perfect ponderosa tree and get expert planting advice to ensure its survival.
Tree sales will take place between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the beautiful Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory.
Trees are available on a first
come, first served basis, so early attendance is encouraged for the best selection.
Information: www.snco.org
Meet gallery artists at Second Saturday September reception
By Deni Porter
Celebrate autumn’s vibrant colors and textures by attending the Artists’ Gallery Second Saturday reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at the gallery in The Village at Sunriver.
Guests can enjoy a beverage and snacks while meeting the artists and discussing their artwork.
September’s featured artists are Becky Henson, Bill Hamilton, Lori Orlando and Jesse Pemberton.
Becky Henson, glass artist
Becky Henson said that selecting the colors and textures of the glass, making the scores, snapping the breaks, and even the smell of soldering is all what she loves about making stain glass art. Most admirers are simply taken with the beauty of each piece, but Henson takes into consideration the specific qualities of the glass, especially the way light highlights and changes the properties of the glass. In the past 30 years, the
artist has created many commissioned pieces that include sliding and stationary windows, lamps, doors, sidelights, boxes, suncatchers and many other projects both large and small.
Bill Hamilton, painter
Bill Hamilton has a passion for art that he said is a “precious gift from God.” His colorful painting subjects include local
Tam Sauter
landscapes, people, animals, birds, flowers and, well, just about anything. Hamilton paints commissions that will fit into just the perfect spot in your home or business. Lucky for collectors, Hamilton’s work comes in all sizes and price ranges. Particularly clever are his small realistic animal representations painted directly on to rock material. Also popular are his mounted prints of local mountains and scenery.
Lori Orlando, painter
Lori Orlando is not content to stay with only one media. She uses pastel, colored pencil and oils to achieve the colorful, crisply lined and detail that makes her work special. Orlando’s realistic style of painting focuses on wildlife, landscapes and still life. Her subject matter can include anything from food or birds to buoys, but mostly she prefers nature. The play of color, light and shadow
as it develops in a painting gives a sense of excitement and anticipation. Orlando said, “If something calls me to paint, then it must be!”
Jesse Pemberton, metal artist Jesse Pemberton’s earliest works include life-size ceramic self-portraits,
melting ice, found objects, bronze castings, and audio/ video composites (unfortunately, the gallery doesn’t have any of those on display). Pemberton makes drawings and expands his growing catalog of collaborative public art
Becky Henson
Jesse Pemberton
Lori Orlando
Bill Hamilton
meetings & gatherings
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
Richard Look, chair designinfo@srowners.org
Election
Patty Smith, chair election@srowners.org
Finance
Clark Pederson, chair finance@srowners.org
Nominating
Ron Angell, chair nominating@srowners.org
Owner Enrichment
Mark Fisler, chair ownerenrichment@srowners.org
Interested in joining a committee, special project or task force?
Contact Becki Sylvester at SROA by calling 541-593-2411.
SEPTEMBER MEETINGS & GATHERINGS
ALL subject to change. Visit online calendars for more details
Opportunity often reveals itself where you least expect it. Across Central Oregon, inventories in certain markets are growing, granting Buyers newfound options. With these choices, Buyers may wield greater negotiating power. Whether this signals a sustained shift or a temporary pause remains uncertain. Sellers, however, continue to reap rewards when pricing wisely. Our observation suggests that interest in Central Oregon living continues to climb. While demand might not reach previous peaks, it remains robust. If Central Oregon has piqued your interest, seize the moment. At the Jones Group, we remain vigilant, adapting to market dynamics. Experience guides us as we assist Buyers and Sellers in navigating the question, “What’s Next?”
Group Gatherings
These groups meet regularly, same time, same place
Monday
Ladies Lunch and Bridge 11:30 a.m. Village Bar & Grill Sign up: 593-5906 or 536-1533
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
Sunriver Republicans
5:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month. 20 Maury Mtn. Lane
The Door at Three Rivers 10am Sunday 86885 Enterprise Drive (Bus. Park) 541-550-3088 www.thedoor3r.org
Pastor: Brent Maxwell
Discover fine art treasures at Second Tern Thrift Store
One volunteer at the Second Tern is responsible for sorting through the framed artwork that arrives every weekend, then cleaning and pricing the pieces, displaying the artwork throughout the store, and organizing and reorganizing whatever is left in several carts and bins that move outside, weather permitting.
On average, three dozen pieces of artwork are donated each week, with the current record set this June with 55 new pieces of artwork.
The artwork’s style, medium, size and quality varies widely but Tern customers have a wide range of tastes, so there is always something for everyone. New pieces are out every Friday. If you are looking for a particular style (oil, watercolor, pastel, colored pencil) a specific subject (wine bottles, map of the world, dogs, tulips), or even a favorite artist, stop by the Tern and take a look. There’s sure to be something to purchase to decorate your home or office.
For example, a total of 35
'Of Time & Ages' by Michael McCollough is one of many art pieces to come through the Tern.
pieces of framed art were donated the weekend of Aug. 9-10. Highlighted below are just four of the artists represented in those donations.
Sunriver Raft & Float
DOORSTEP SHUTTLE
Note: Information about these artists was taken from various websites.
• Michael McCollough: Michael and Stephen McCullough, twin brothers, are well known throughout the Southwest over the past 30 years for their strong, vibrant paintings. As Native American artists, members of the Choctaw Nation, they specialize in original paintings of authentic images reflecting the culture and history of the Southwest. One of the prints received at the Tern is titled “Of Time &
Ages.”
• Paul A. Lanquist: Through the years, Lanquist has gravitated to the work of illustrators from the 20s, 30s, and 40s who use color and design to communicate their ideas in a straightforward way. The natural beauty of America and Canada is another important influence in Lanquist's work. By combining the nostalgic look and feel of the past with the spectacular scenery of this country, Lanquist has created destination and travel posters that capture the beauty and
lifestyle of these unique areas. The Tern received a Sunriver poster print.
• Dolores Egger: Egger was born and raised in Portland and now resides in the adjacent town of Milwaukie. She is fourth generation of the pioneers coming west by wagon train in the 1850s who settled in the Willamette Valley. With brush, she creates landscapes, seascapes and florals unique and realistic in style that exemplifies the changing moods and seasons. Egger’s piece depicts a serene mountain lake.
• Terry Maddox: When Maddox is not touring, he spends time at his studio in Eugene, where inspiration continues to flow from his fingers, creating new images of landscapes and nature, so real that you have to blink again to see that it is indeed not a photograph. Maddox created a drawing of two pintails in flight.
If you are interested in volunteering to work with art, lamps, clothing, furniture, jewelry, electronics, linens, bikes or a number of other items, contact the Second Tern at 541-593-3367. Join a great group of people who are committed to supporting the environment, the community and the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory.
The Second Tern is located at 17377 Spring River Road, just west of Harper Bridge, and is open Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. year-round; donations accepted 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on open days. The Second Tern benefits Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory.
&
&
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is located at 57245 River Road, off Circle 3, on the way to the airport and marina. Check www.snco. org for current hours and programs. For volunteering, more information, or questions: 541-593-3367 (Tern), 541593-4394 (Nature Center) or www.snco.org.
Sunriver Women’s Club welcomes current, new members with tea and dessert
The annual Sunriver Women’s Club’s Welcome Back Event is 3:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17 in Pringle Hall at SHARC.
This casual event, serving tea and dessert, is a great way for prospective members to learn about the club’s many social activities and volunteer opportunities. The club welcomes women of all ages from Sunriver and the surrounding communities. Part-time residents and full-time residents are both encouraged to join.
“All of us were new members once,” SRWC President Brigitte Bourret said. “We joined to make new friends and to connect to our community. We stay involved because of the benefits of being part of such a dynamic group and the good feelings from our philanthropic impact. Our community is truly stronger because of the women’s club.”
Bourret encourages people to contact her at president@
sunriverwomensclub.org if you have questions or concerns about the club.
Members can choose to be as involved as they like depending on their time and interests. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, dinner clubs, book clubs, local service projects, major fundraising events and
more. Leadership roles also are open. The club values the fresh ideas and perspectives of new members which bring new energy to what it does.
The SRWC has given more than $1 million to improve the quality of life for residents in south Deschutes County since 1999. The club focuses
on education, hunger prevention, housing security, physical and mental health, and child safety. All grants require the funding and programs to stay in the south Deschutes County community.
There are currently about 400 members. Current members can renew their member-
ship and new members can join at the event. Annual membership is $60. If you can’t make the event, have questions or would like to meet one-onone to learn more about the Sunriver Women’s Club, please email membership@ sunriverwomensclub.org.
Live, Play, Explore
Callibaetis Pullover Cripple Materials List
Hook: Firehole 419 (barbless) or Daiichi 1180 size 1416 or similar
Thread: Tobacco brown, 70 denier
Tailing Shuck: Zelon in mayfly brown
Wing: Zelon in dark dun
Abdomen: Natural turkey biot in dark brown
Thorax: Light olive dubbing (75%), UV dubbing tan (25%)
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 https://youtu.be/YIdajWnzTSo
Fly Tying Corner: Callibaetis pullover cripple
By Phil Fischer
For September’s pattern, I have chosen a favorite fly for imitating callibaetis during the hatch, called the Callibaetis Pullover Cripple. This fly is an adaptation of both a Pablo’s Cripple and a Quigly Cripple, choosing the best components of each pattern.
Because cripples occur throughout the hatch, I will fish this pattern in tandem with dun or spinner imitations to give myself a better chance of success. It is an effective fly on East Lake, Hosmer, Lava and local lakes. On a recent Sunriver Anglers outing to Lake of the Dunes, it was responsible for many hookups.
Callibaetis mayfly hatches start on local lakes in June and will last through the summer and into early fall. The callibaetis hatch is unquestionably the most important mayfly hatch on the Cascade Lakes in Central Oregon.
Trout key on the nymph stage prior to the hatch, the emerger stage during the hatch,
the dun stage on the surface, and spinners returning to lay eggs to begin the cycle anew.
Fishing techniques for this insect vary, from nymphs fished beneath an indicator, to wind drifted or stripped, and to fishing dun and spinner patters on the surface. Hatches usually occur in the later morning and extend into the afternoon on many days. To extend your fishing day, stock up on various stages of this insect to cover the hatch thoroughly.
Callibaetis mayflies hatch in the late morning to early afternoon and as they emerge, many have difficulty passing through the surface tension on the water and fail to fully emerge as an adult. These unfortunate insects often become trout food, as the fish key on insects that won’t fly away. That is one of the main reasons I focus on
fishing cripple patterns. Trout key on this stage as cripples are the easiest to intercept during a hatch of mayflies. Trout will swim along the surface and slurp down the cripples opportunistically. Time the rise with your cast and bingo, fish on! But often it can be a challenging time to fish due to the large number of flies on the water. Experiment with this pattern during the callibaetis emergence at East Lake, Lava, Hosmer or other favorite lake where callibaetis thrive.
Give it a try. I think you will like the results.
If you have questions or would like additional information about the callibaetis pattern, please 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.
By Rynie Miyashiro
Euro nymphing is a type of fly fishing that uses longer, lightweight rods, heavy nymphs with or without a split shot, a “sighter” to detect strikes, and a tight line technique that keeps the fly or flies near the bottom of the river or stream.
Can you cast while Euro nymphing? Do you have to have specialized equipment? Will you catch more fish Euro nymphing? Where can you Euro nymph in Central Oregon?
All these questions and more will be answered at the Sunriver Anglers’ September meeting.
Special guest Tim Quinton,
a former flyfishing guide and local fly fisher, will give a presentation on Euro nymphing and answer your questions. He also may share some examples of Euro Nymphing set ups and flies. If you have been curious about this style of fly fish -
Tim Quinton
Political signage in Sunriver
With the upcoming presidential election, this is a friendly reminder to residents that signage, banners, flags, etc. tied to any sort of political campaign are not permitted under Sunriver Rules & Regulations Section 4.02 Maintenance & Appearance.
ing that the U.S. Fly Fishing Team uses, plan to attend the Wednesday, Sept. 4 meeting.
Members and the public are invited to attend this free presentation in the Crescent Room of the SHARC. (Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center). The presentation is from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. for fish stories and coffee.
For additional information about the September meeting or the Sunriver Anglers, visit sunriveranglers.org
projects in California and Oregon. The artist is most known for his spectrum of abstract metal compositions. He works predominantly in sculpture derived from steel with an emphasis of post-industrial materials. Most pieces are three dimensional, but many can be hung for viewing.
The Artists’ Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and hopes to see you on Saturday, Sept. 14.
The Artists’ Gallery is in building 19 in the Sunriver Village next door to the Mexican restaurant. Visit www. ArtistsGallerySunriver.com or call 541-593-4382.
Lindsay Kuzara / Linda Dorr
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon seeks mentors
The need for mentors in Central Oregon is urgent. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon (BBBSCO), a program of J Bar J Youth Services, is currently facing a critical shortage of volunteers. With 109 children currently on the waiting list, the organization is reaching out to community members to step up and become mentors, known as “Bigs,” to these waiting “Littles.”
e need for mentors
BBBSCO’s mentoring program creates one-on-one relationships between adult volunteers and children to help children reach their full potential. These relationships are designed to build self-confidence, provide guidance, and teach life skills. However, the demand for such mentorship far exceeds the current supply of volunteers, leaving many children waiting – sometimes for years – for a match.
The need is particularly acute in south Deschutes County, where many children are on the waiting list for a Big Brother or Big Sister. These children would greatly benefit from the positive influence of an adult mentor, someone who can offer them the support,
encouragement, and friendship they need.
Why mentoring matters
Research consistently shows that mentoring has a profound impact on young people. Children with mentors are more likely to succeed in school, have higher self-esteem, and avoid risky behaviors. They also are more likely to form healthy relationships and have a clearer vision of their future.
For the 109 children currently waiting for mentors through BBBSCO, the absence of a Big Brother or Big Sister means missing out on these critical benefits. Many of these kids face challenges such as family instability, academic struggles, or social isolation. A mentor
can be the key to helping them overcome these obstacles and thrive.
Who can be a mentor?
One of the strengths of the BBBSCO program is its accessibility. Anyone with a little time and a big heart can be a mentor. You don’t need special skills or training – just the desire to make a difference in a child’s life. Mentors come from all backgrounds, bringing diverse experiences to their relationships with the child. The program is designed to fit into the busy lives of volunteers. Meetings with your Little can take place a couple of times a month, and activities can be as simple as hiking, playing a sport, or chatting over ice
cream. What matters most is the quality time spent together, building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
e impact of mentoring in south Deschutes County
In south Deschutes County, the call for mentors is especially pressing. Many children in this area face significant challenges, from economic hardship to social isolation. By becoming a mentor, you have the power to change the course of a child’s life.
Imagine the difference you could make by being there for a child who needs you. For a Little in south Deschutes County, having a Big Brother or Big Sister could mean everything – someone to look
up to, confide in, and dream with. Your support could help them succeed in school, make healthier choices, and ultimately build a brighter future. How to get involved
If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference, BBBSCO is eager to welcome you. Becoming a mentor involves a straightforward process that includes a background check, an interview, and an orientation. Once you’re matched with a Little, you’ll receive ongoing support from the BBBSCO team to ensure a positive and rewarding mentoring experience.
The children of Central Oregon – and especially those in south Deschutes County –are counting on us. With 109 kids on the waitlist, the need for mentors is urgent. By stepping up as a Big Brother or Big Sister, you can help transform a child’s life for the better. This is your opportunity to give back to your community, forge a meaningful connection, and make a lasting impact.
To learn more about how you can become a Big Brother or Big Sister, visit www.bbbsco. org or contact the BBBSCO office directly at 541-312-6047.
WHEN IT COMES TO SAVING MONEY, YOUR HOME HAS A LOT TO SAY.
When you take the free Online Home Energy Assessment, you’re allowing your home to speak up about ways to save energy and money. Plus, we have lots of incentives that can save you even more - including smart thermostats, insulation and even air purifiers.
It’s here – the great reimagination of the Lake House at Caldera Springs. Discover a dedicated space to gather and create lasting memories against the backdrop of breathtaking natural surroundings. Now open to the public, guests are invited to lounge with the whole family in the dining room, warm up by the fireplace in the bar or roast s’mores under the starlit sky on the outdoor patio. Here, every meal and moment become a story.
Sunriver Mens Golf: Lyndon Blackwell, Michael Kelly 2024 club champions
By Paul J. Grieco
Lyndon Blackwell coolly w on his third overall club championship on a warm and sultry August day with a combined gross score of 156 over two rounds.
The first round one week earlier was at the Meadows course, with the second and final round at the Woodlands. Blackwell’s closest competitors in the gross division were Jeff Corey at 163, and Peter Alexander, last year’s champion, at 165.
Blackwell also won the club championships in 2015 and 2020. Topping the field in net play for the overall net title was SRMGC newcomer Michael Kelly, who shot a nifty net combined score of 134 over two rounds.
Net score winners by flight were as follows: in Flight One, Kevin Baker at 146 followed by Peter Alexander just one stroke back. In Flight Two, net winners were Scott Rigby at 144, Geoff Wood at 145 and in third place was Gary Orzell at 145. Flight 3 net champs were Mike Kelly who was overall net champ, followed by Mike Stamler at 138, and Bruce Fraser at 148, who placed third in a scorecard playoff over Don
Larson.
Winners were announced shortly after the shotgun round was finished with the group enjoying an SRMGC sponsored post-round burger barbecue lunch at McDivot’s Cafe.
Kudos to competition chair Jim Montroy and his able volunteers for analyzing the results so quickly.
Leading money winners through early August; other competitions
With the official SRMGC
golf season nearing its close, the leading money winners through the first 60% of the season are as follows: overall money leaders in games won, KPs, skins and finishing at or near the top in weekly games in team play or solo are:
Jeff Cory, Lyndon Blackwell, Don Gillet, Scott Rigby, Mike Stamler, Scott Brown, Joe DeStefano, Mike Kelly, Paul Gardner and John Volkober. Ringerboard leaders through early August: 0-15 Gross HCP: Jeff Cory, Lyndon Blackwell,
“The
Scott Brown, Kevin Baker and Paul Gardner; 0-15 Net: Don Gillet, Joe DeStefano, Jeff Johnson, Scott Rigby, Paul Gardner, and John Shoemaker.
16-36 Gross: Mike Stamler, John Volkober, Jim Remensperger, Dan Burkhalter; 16-36 Net:
Robert Kufeld, John Volkober, Mike Stamler, Don Larson, Dan Burkhalter and Jim Remensperger.
Match Play was completed after this writing, so the results will be in the next issue of the Scene. Resort Cup results also will be reported next issue, with Sunriver currently in third place within shouting distance of the leaders with two rounds yet to play. The annual
and perhaps final, two-round Sunriver Cup competition between the SRMGC and the Crosswater Club will be held in early September with both teams tied at seven wins.
Annual awards banquet Oct. 1 at Caldera Springs
The last awards banquet as the Sunriver Mens Golf Club will be held at the newly renovated Lake House at Caldera on Oct. 1 with a cocktail hour followed by dinner (your choice of steak or salmon or vegetarian entrée), an awards ceremony and door prizes and raffles.
Look for an email announcement to sign up in early September.
2024 gross champion Lyndon Blackwell, left, and net champion Michael Kelly.
An interview with Sunriver Police Chief Stephen Lopez; department goals, challenges
Sunriver Police Chief Stephen Lopez was interviewed by Jill Stephens with the Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation to share with community members about his law enforcement career and his plans for the Sunriver Police Department.
From premed to police chief Lopez didn’t always want to be a police officer.
“In fact, I went to UC Davis for premed and graduated with a degree in neurobiology, physiology and behavior. But an internship at UC Davis Medical Center showed me that being a medical doctor wasn’t what I thought. Wanting to stay in the medical field, I pursued a degree in fire science with the intention of becoming a paramedic/firefighter. Although I did well at the fire academy, my work as a student firefighter with Oakland Fire showed me that wasn't right the right career either.
“I reached out to a mentor, my former wrestling coach who was a sergeant with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office. He suggested I consider law enforcement and after one ride-along I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I graduated number one from the academy,
Mission Statement of the Sunriver Police Department
The Sunriver Police Department works in partnership with our community stakeholders to control crime, maintain order, and provide needed services to the public we both serve and protect legitimately, transparently, and with accountability.
and that's how I found my calling in law enforcement.”
During the more than 15 years Lopez spent at the Santa Clara Sheriff’s Office, he worked in many different positions including the courts, several patrol divisions and the rewarding role of field training officer.
He was a range deputy, then sergeant and range master, running the range at Santa Clara’s full-time firearm facility for several years.
After a stint working internal affairs, he was promoted to lieutenant and became a watch commander, essentially in charge of Santa Clara County during the evening. Following that, he oversaw the entire sheriff’s academy and training division.
Why Central Oregon and Sunriver?
“My family had been vaca-
tioning in the area since Bend was a lumber town, so I had been up here many times. By 2021, my wife and I were looking for a better quality of life for our family, and she had an opportunity to work remotely. We have a very close friend who works for Bend PD who let me know about Sunriver PD, and it was the community-oriented department I was looking for. I joined in 2021 as a sergeant working for then Chief Cory Darling and was promoted to lieutenant in 2022. I took over as chief in December 2023.”
During his tenure in Sunriver, Lopez has continued to broaden his education, attending an executive leadership program at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and earning a master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia.
He gives back by training others, teaching three classes at
Central Oregon Community College (Intro to Law-Enforcement, Intro to Criminal Investigation, and a course in women’s self-defense).
He’s also active in professional and community organizations such as the Oregon Association of the Chiefs of Police, Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club, and Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce.
In his spare time, Lopez is head coach of the Summit High School girls rugby team and enjoys spending time with his wife and five children.
How is your department organized?
“We have six police officers, two sergeants, two corporals, one captain, an executive assistant and as of Aug. 1, a community service officer. Our patrols are split into two teams to provide 24-hour coverage. Our sergeants are the primary patrol supervisors, and our corporals are considered patrol leads, performing both training and patrol. The captain and I are usually here during the weekdays and on call. Our team of 14 people has expertise in different specialties that rivals many other departments in Oregon, allowing this small
team to provide outstanding service.”
What is the role of the new community service officer?
“I’ve seen a need for more year-round community engagement and events and to enhance our ability to educate our community about rules and regulations within Sunriver. In many ways, our CSO will be the face of the department to the community. Citizens Patrol and Bike Patrol will also report to our CSO. Officer Steinbrecher stepped into this role on Aug. 1.”
What goals do you have for your department?
“One of the benefits of coming in as a sergeant was that I learned about Sunriver and the people who live and visit here from daily patrols. Sunriver is unique from a policing aspect in that the many different community stakeholders need and expect different things from the department.
Our officers need to understand and handle the public safety needs of the 5,000 residents in February, the challenges that come when the
population swells to 30,000 in August, as well as the needs of local businesses.
“My focus is to hire, train and retain the best personnel –those who can navigate diverse community needs – while creating an intentional culture of professionalism, engagement and relationship-building with the community.
My vision is for the department to be recognized and respected as the premier department throughout Central Oregon and the state.
“I’ve restructured some department ranks and responsibilities to achieve these goals.
We’re using the corporal rank and its veterans as a key element of patrol leadership and institutional knowledge. We've replaced the lieutenant rank with captain to more accurately reflect the executive type of leadership that's required.
“We’re also leveraging technology such as our drone program plus new software and services, which act as a force multiplier for the department. We continue to upgrade our
OLD TOWN ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION
“Where Quality Counts”
personal protective equipment and our vehicles to increase safety and responsiveness. Our new facility will be an important asset for the team and the community, and the envy of many departments.
“We have developed comprehensive training of mandated topics and regularly send our personnel to external training which they bring back to train the rest of the team. We plan to refresh and expand to include areas such as de-escalation, driving, warrants, electronic evidence and so on. Having made training a key department strength, we are at the point where we can offer training to other agencies.”
What are the biggest challenges for the department?
“Recruitment is an on-going effort with several issues. The very high cost of living in this area relative to compensation is a concern, as is competing with larger departments directly adjacent to us. Choosing the right people who can do the job correctly and fit within the department narrows the pool further. However, we make every effort to widen the pool
MICHAEL BENNETT
541-598-7455
of potential candidates, and I’m happy with the team now in place.
“A second big challenge is regional population pressure, and we are already seeing problems from that which are likely to get worse. We are preparing by analyzing risks and opportunities of the next 5 to 10 years. The good news is that we have the infrastructure, trained personnel, and effective partnerships with other agencies. It’s a matter of taking those assets and deploying them correctly to prevent and address crime throughout the community.”
What makes Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation special?
Lopez was asked about the benefits of having a police and fire foundation.
He explained that traditionally, first responder foundations ask for donations and do fundraising for the departments, since police and fire cannot accept donations directly.
He said that he’s pleased that the Sunriver Police and
Fire Foundation has evolved beyond that to being more of a supplement to the departments – one that creates more community involvement and support for first responders, funded in areas for which the departments might not have the budget.
“A good example of this is the Women’s Safety Class we held in May. My department did not have the budget for the class, but with foundation funding through business sponsorships we were able to provide a valuable class. Another example is a planned wellness seminar this fall for first responders and their families to which the foundation is bringing experts on topics such as handling stresses unique to these roles. Programs of this kind help employees enjoy working here and even help with the recruitment process.
Anything else you would like to add?
When asked for parting thoughts, Lopez answered, “I would like the community to know that that their police department is made up of qualified, well-trained and professional people who understand and are responsive to their community. And I think it's going to be exciting times with many opportunities in the years to come.”
ank yous
Thanks to the many people who attended or volunteered at the bingo fundraisers and the generous support of our sponsors, the foundation is looking forward to sponsoring more community and first responder events this year.
Looking for more information about an event? Please email your questions to events@ srpolicefirefoundation.org.
This goes beyond how other foundations are being utilized, but I think we have an opportunity in Sunriver to collaborate so both the community and department personnel benefit.”
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Discover Oregon wineries at Uncorked: Sunriver Style, Sept. 13 &14
Celebrate autumn’s splendor in Sunriver by inviting your friends and family members to attend the 8th annual Uncorked: Sunriver Style.
The event is 3 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 and 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at SHARC.
The cost is $25 per person, and tickets can be purchased at the door. Admission includes two tasting tokens, an Uncorked stemless wineglass and live music. Guests must be 21 years old and older to attend.
Beth Herron, events manager at SHARC, shared Uncorked: Sunriver Style is a great chance for locals and visitors to explore the wines from a dozen different wineries throughout Oregon.
“SHARC is hosting the 8th annual Uncorked event to keep the tradition going and provide an opportunity to
Taste dozens of wines in one place during Uncorked.
bring the wine community together in Sunriver,” Herron said. “With the summer being a busy time for the community, it's important to continue providing a space to bring homeowners
together and also the broader community for some food, fun and wine.”
The wineries participating at Uncorked are Willamette Valley Vineyards, Garibaldi Cellars, J. Scott Cellars, Catman Cellars, J Wrigley Winery, Merrill Cellars, Laurel Ridge Winery, Darque Wines, Elixir Wine Group, Faith Hope and Charity Vineyards, Lava Terrace Cellars and Maragas Winery.
Curbside Bistro will have food available for purchase and there will be vendors selling food items including Lidia’s
Launch of a new edition, map of the High Desert Food Trail
The High Desert Food Trail, created by High Desert Food and Farm Alliance announced a new edition and map, complete with new foodie-focused
events, delicious culinary businesses, and self-guided itineraries. The High Desert Food Trail is a collaboration with Travel Oregon and Visit Central Or-
egon as a part of the Oregon Food Trails Program. The trail features 48 businesses including farms, ranches, restaurants, farmers markets, craft food and beverage makers, and lodging. Trail visitors can choose their own path, or follow one of the three highlighted themes and itineraries –Stunning Land -
Chocolates.
Enjoy dancing to the music of Heller Highwater Band from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 13 and Derek Michael Mark & Crossfire from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14.
There will be a raffle for chances to win prizes including wine, a wine bag and other items.
“If you are looking for a perfect way to wind down summer in the crisp cool air amongst some of your favorite wineries alongside live music in beautiful Sunriver, this is the ideal event to attend,” Herron said. “It will be a great chance to explore offerings from various wineries and mingle with your friends or family.”
If you are interested in volunteering for Uncorked or other SHARC events, email sharcevents@srowners.org.
scapes, Artisan Offerings, and Resilient Agriculture.
While the trail is accessible year-round, some businesses are only seasonally open to the public. The summer season is a great time to look into one of these itineraries and explore these self-guided journeys at your own pace.
Visit hdffa.org/hdft to download the trail map in both English and Spanish, and explore an interactive map of trail businesses at hdffa.org/ hdft-businesses.
Brochures are at visitor centers, participating businesses, and at HDFFA booths at farmers markets this summer.
September Sunriver Saturday Market
Whether you are looking for gifts for the upcoming holidays, something for your home or ingredients for a meal, you are bound to find it at the Sunriver Saturday Market, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7 at SHARC, by the basketball court.
The September vendors are: Ready to eat items: Curmuffin, Slurp Soup Co., Laotian Arts & Crafts: Blue Birds Boutique, Crimson & Clover Permanent Jewelry, Jan Ferguson Photography, Cooks Pottery, Mara Crochet Minis, Guy Sheeter Woodworking, Wyld Terra, Lil Mama Megs Candles, Gretchen Bass Blankets, Rachel Elise Art, Jax Hats, Houser House Creations, Almanilly Soap, Monstera Boutique and AKA Jewelry Designs
Food and beverage: Badlands Artisan Distillery, Windy Acres Dairy, Broadus Bees, The Soapy Dough, Crumb Sourdough, BRL Micro Greens, The Vegetable Man, Bonta of Bend, Hello Darling Sweets, Royal Juice Co., The Crows Croft and Compassion Kombucha
Pets: Peaceful Pet Supplements
The market is hosted by the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce as part of its mission to support local businesses. Event sponsors are Visit Central Oregon, The Fold Pizza Kitchen, Exit Realty Bend and Village Bar & Grill.
Sponsorships available for the Sunriver Saturday Holiday Market
The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its first Sunriver Saturday Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 30 at SHARC. There will be more than 45 Central Oregon vendors selling gifts, crafts, food and beverages. There will be a canned food drive to benefit Care & Share, a nonprofit food bank serving local residents.
Sponsorships are available:
Three Gold at $400 each: Business logo on all marketing materials including posters, postcards and banner; promoted on website, social media and Sunriver Scene – from Sept.8 to Nov. 30; banner and marketing materials at the holiday market.
Five Silver at $200 each: Business logo promoted on website, social media and Sunriver Scene from Sept. 8 to Nov. 30, banner and marketing materials at holiday market.
Six Bronze at $100 each: Business can share banner and marketing materials at the event. Thank you in the Sunriver Scene, chamber newsletters and social media.
Nonprofit organizations can share their information at the chamber’s booth by contacting Kristine Thomas at exec@ sunriverchamber.com.
Counting Christmas Trees & Wreaths: Plans are underway to sell Christmas trees and wreathes at the market. If you
are interested in purchasing a tree or wreath, please email exec@sunriverchamber.com in order to get an estimate on how many to order. Please put Trees & Wreathes in the subject line.
Searching for Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus: If you have intel on how to reach Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, please share their email address so they can be invited to attend the market. Email exec@ sunriverchamber.com.
Sign up for upcoming chamber events
Plans are underway for a mini-golf tournament in September, the second annual canned food drive and pumpkin decorating contest in October and the third annual Ornament Quest in December. If your business is interested in participating in any of the event, please email exec@ sunriverchamber.com or subscribe to the newsletter to learn more about the events.
Become a member of the chamber
There are many benefits to
becoming a member of the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce.
If you are interested in learning more about the chamber, there will be a coffee meet and greet at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Café Sintra. Please RVSP to exec@sunriverchamber.com if you plan to attend.
SSD seeking executive ssistant
The Sunriver Service District is looking for a part-time executive assistant.
Visit www.sunriversd.org for full job description and to submit resume.
Left to right: The Soapy Dough, Curmuffin, Mystic Roots Organic Skin Care and Royal Juice Co.
vendors at the Sunriver Saturday Market held the first Saturday of the month at SHARC.
Sunriver Service District public safety building update
As summer fades into fall, Kirby Nagelhout Construction Co., and its trade partners continue to make progress on the public safety building.
New trusses, sheathing, and roofing over the old fire station living quarters and apparatus bay additions are underway and will be completed in Septem-
ber. Interior wall framing of the north apparatus bay has begun. Framing of the second-floor walls and mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) rough-in has been completed. Finishes, paint, and MEP top-out on the east apparatus bay are ongoing and will be completed by the end of September. Crews have a
installed new HVAC ductwork in the apparatus bay.
Continuing through September, MEP rough-ins will begin on the north apparatus bay addition and second floor of the fire station. Lockers for the lockers rooms are set to arrive and be installed and exterior siding and painting will
SNCO to host wine event, free day
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is home to Central Oregon’s only botanic garden, showcasing the diversity of plant life in the Great Basin ecosystem.
On Sept. 7, 3-7 p.m., come wander the garden in the cool of the evening and explore local artists who use nature as their inspiration while enjoying wine, appetizers and the sweet sounds of the Obsidian Jazz group.
Featured artists include Copper Moon’s sculpture, Betti Butler’s digital art, Jim Gilmore’s steel sculpture, and Michelle Adam’s photography.
Itinerary as follows:
you to our Fall Free Day, taking place Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This complimentary event provides an excellent opportunity to explore our 8-acre facility, located amidst serene Lake Aspen and the Great Meadow. Home to a variety of local wildlife and plants, our dedicated naturalists will guide you through exhibits with hourly presentations emphasizing the many different aspects of our center. Come prepared to learn and fall even more in love with the world around you.
begin on east apparatus bay. A major milestone for this month is the arrival and installation of the electrical switchgear.
A 24/7 construction camera is posted to show live images of the construction, which is accessible on the Sunriver Service District website at www. sunriversd.org. During construction, the fire department and Sunriver Service District
administration offices are relocated to the Sunriver Police Department. If the offices are closed, pick up the red phone for assistance. The district has firefighters, EMS staff and police officers on shift 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to serve the Sunriver community.
For any questions or concerns, please email ssdadmin@ sunriversd.org.
This event is in memory of Harry Hamilton, a longtime supporter of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory’s mission to inspire present and future generations to cherish and understand our natural world.
Admission is free to this event.
Fall free day
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory invites
• 10 a.m. Owls: Come see Luna spread her wings
• 11 a.m. Meteorites: Rocks from Space.
• 12 p.m. Waterfowl: Come meet some of our cutest residents up close.
• 1 p.m. Rockets: Watch the power that propels us to the stars.
• 2 p.m. Falcons: Meet North America’s largest and smallest falcon.
Sunriver Police Department appoints community service o cer
The Sunriver Police Department welcomes the department’s new community service officer Ashley Steinbrecher. Steinbrecher comes to Sunriver from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office where she worked as an evidence technician. Prior to that, Steinbrecher worked at the Sunriver Police Department as a records assistant as well as a bike patrol officer. The department is happy to have her back.
Chief Lopez presents a badge to Ashley Steinbrecher, the department’s new community service officer.
Luna the Eurasian owl
Fall into great reading in September with the Sunriver Book Clubs
By Deon Stonehouse
September is a wonderful time to join a book club where you can meet other readers for fun chats about great books. Everyone is welcome to join the Sunriver Books’ Book Clubs, that meet at 6 p.m. via Zoom and at 4:30 p.m. in person on Mondays.
If you would like to attend a discussion, send an email to sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks. com, and I will send you the discussion notes the Sunday before the book club meeting.
Mystery Book Club
The Mystery Book Club members will discuss “The River We Remember” by William Kent Kruege at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9 via Zoom, and 4:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16 at Sunriver Books in The Village at Sunriver.
The story take places in Jewell, Minn., during the 1950s when the memories of World War II and the Korean War are still raw.
Sheriff Brody Dern is avoiding the town’s Memorial Day celebrations, or trying to by spending time with his golden retriever and doing his job, when he is alerted to the brutal murder of Jimmy Quinn, whose body was found in a lonely stretch of river.
A truly rotten man, Quinn was a major landowner in the area. Few will mourn him. Nonetheless, the murder has the quiet community in a lather demanding justice for the dead man.
Suspicion is quickly falling on Noah Bluestone, a Native American war hero who returned to Jewell with his Japanese wife to settle down on his small farm.
Krueger’s brilliantly written novel delivers interesting characters in a complex mystery that exposes the attitudes and pain of small town America.
Fiction Book
Club
“Lawn Boy” by Jonathan Evison will be discussed by the Fiction Book Club at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23 via Zoom and at 4:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30 at the Sunriver Books in The Village at Sunriver.
Every year, the book club commemorates “Banned Book Week” by reading a book from the “Banned Book Section.”
“Lawn Boy” is this year’s selection. Books should not be banned.
Evison has an interest in exploring the lives of people stuck on society’s lower rungs and the disabled.
This talented author is able to craft beautifully written stories that illustrate the plights of their characters, and the stories also are hilarious and treat those characters with respect.
Northern Washington is a place of great beauty, but for the poor it can be a struggle to get by regardless of the lovely setting.
Mike Munoz works on a yard maintenance crew and still lives at home with his mom and brother. He never thought about moving on in search of his own future once he graduated from high school.
His younger brother is developmentally disabled, a child in a man’s body, needing constant supervision.
His father left when his brother was a baby. Mike’s mom waits tables and Mike mows grass, pooling their funds to rent a rundown home, pay the utilities, and maybe have a cheap night out once in a while.
Being Latino in an era that values pale white people doesn’t make things any easier for Mike.
He just wants to grab a piece of the American Dream and a bit of happiness.
Is that too much to ask? Well, maybe. But Mike has a lot of heart and determination so don’t give up on him and his dreams.
Somehow he just might find a way to move forward while
embracing his heritage, finding self-knowledge, and being true to those he loves.
A lot to ask of a book?
Well, maybe, but Evison can deliver. This is an author with major talent, willing to take chances, and able to tell a good story.
Book club members receive a discount on book club books. Sunriver Books & Music is in building 25 in The Village at Sunriver. Call 541-593-2525 or visit www.sunriverbooks. com for information.
Sunriver Service District board monthly meeting summary
public safety
The Sunriver Service District Managing Board held its regular meeting on Aug. 15, 2024.
Board members present: Jim Fister, John Shoemaker, Bill Hepburn, John Ralston, Gerhard Beenen, Tony De Alicante and Denney Kelley.
SSD staff present: Police Chief Steve Lopez, Fire Chief Bill Boos, administrator Mindy Holliday.
Public input
-Barbara Siudy shared her concerns about an incident in which a resident at a neighboring property discharged a firearm inside their home. Siudy said she no longer feels safe in her own home and that Sunriver should increase safety measures and fines to avoid this happening again.
–Dan Byrne spoke in support of Siudy’s concerns and also believes that rules about
SSD Board Monthly Meetings
SSD board meetings are held the third Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. Meetings are currently held in the SROA administration board room.
discharging a firearm in the community should be beefed up.
–The board thanked outgoing board members Gerhard Beenen and Tony De Alicante.
–The board thanked Bette Butler and Mike Gocke for their service on the SSD’s budget committee.
–The board acknowledged the passing of long-time district supporter Harry Hamilton and sent condolences to his family.
Consent Agenda
–Approved July 18, 2024 regular SSD board meeting minutes.
–Approved SROA monthly invoice in the amount of $10,771.02.
–Approved annual Lexipol LLC invoice in the amount of $9,027.77.
–Approved Deschutes County legal invoice in the amount of $6,000 for retainer services between July and December.
Old business
Public safety building update
–Trusses have been replaced and the roof is dried-in. Electrical switch gear has been shipped and Midstate has been scheduled for hookup. East bay trusses are coming.
Second floor interior of the fire station is down to stud walls. Everything remains on time and on budget.
–Approved July construction funding requests in the amount of $568,042.53.
–Reviewed public safety building monthly memo to Deschutes County Commissioners.
–Still waiting to do a reserve study until the public safety building is completed.
–Strategic Plan update is also waiting for building completion and the reserve study.
–Executive leadership annual performance reviews were sent to the board for feedback.
–Reviewed draft letter to be sent to elected officials regarding public land safety related to houseless camping wildfire risks to the Sunriver community.
New business
–Approved July 2024 unaudited financials.
–Director Hepburn shared a proposed draft of a Neighborhood Emergency Operations Plan for significant incidents that may affect others in the neighborhood. The board is cautious about the use of such a plan as the fire/police departments already have emergency plans they follow. It was suggested the draft be further vetted before coming to the board.
–Preparations are being made for the FY 23-24 SSD financial audit. Administrator Holliday is providing materials requested by the auditors, who will be on-site Sept. 5.
–Approved appointment of Denney Kelley as SSD interim
treasurer for September and October. Former treasurer Gerhard Beenen’s term on the SSD board is complete.
–Approved Resolution 2024009 clarifying overtime exclusion for exempt employees during emergency deployments.
Chief reports Fire
–In July, there were 85 calls for the Sunriver Fire Department, which included 47 EMS calls, 3 hazardous conditions, 4 motor vehicle crashes, 5 wildland fires, 18 mutual aid and 28 public service assistance calls.
–Met with Sen. Golden about fire insurance concerns.
–WHA was here to discuss property and casualty insurance.
–The association donated $400 to the chaplains program and $700 to a Deschutes County 911 dispatcher who was diagnosed with cancer.
–The department has been upstaffing during extreme fire weather conditions.
–Outreach activities included attending the bingo night
Don’t let your guard down on wild re safety
By Jim Bennett
September signals we are on summer’s home stretch.
It has been another wonderful summer in Sunriver, and we will now begin to see the population shrink as school starts and, sadly, vacations end.
However, the weather in past years has not called it quits for summer in September and warm to hot and dry conditions have persisted well into October.
Nationally, and in Oregon, we have seen some of our most devastating wildfires in the waning days of summer.
No one can forget the 2020 Labor Day fires, which destroyed more than 5,000 structures and charred more than 1.2 million acres.
Simply put, we cannot let our guard down in the fourth quarter of the game.
We must continue to monitor our properties for fire safety concerns.
This includes the removal of dead vegetation, keeping pine needles and forest debris completely off our roofs and out of our gutters and removing excess ground forest debris such as pine needles, branches as well as firewood stacks near our homes.
Diligence is needed to follow the rules that safeguard our community.
Charcoal and wood barbecues, and fire pits and open
flame pits are all prohibited in Sunriver. Propane and pellet barbecues can be used.
While it might be a little tough to find this late in the season, be on the lookout for end-of-season deals on fire resistant patio furniture.
While that may seem overthe-top, think of the large surface area all our patio furniture covers from lounges, padded chairs, comfy outdoor sofas and more.
All those pieces create a large, open surface for a hot ember to land on and ignite.
Wooden tables and chairs, couch cushions and pillows, as well as canvas chairs and umbrellas – if not rated as fire resistant – pose a significant risk when there are winds blowing even the smallest hot ember.
Be Ready
Re-reading the stories of the 2020 Labor Day fires brings up so many tragic examples of lives impacted by fast moving, catastrophic fires.
While it has been said many times through the summer, it can’t be said enough - prepare to evacuate. If there were a serious incident you would receive detailed instructions of either Level 1 “Be ready,” Level 2 “Be set” or Level 3 “Go,” evacuation measures.
The details of evacuation plans, information during an incident and registration for
the Sunriver and Deschutes County Emergency Alerts can be found at sunriveremergencyinfo.com
In terms of “prepare to evacuate,” this is all about thinking it through and preparedness long before you even receive a “Level 1” or more urgent alert.
Ask yourself these questions and take today to make sure your answers across the board are “I’m prepared.”
1. Do I know how my family will communicate during an emergency or if unable to, do we have a meeting place outside of Sunriver and a designated family member or friend located out of Oregon that we can all call to share our status?
2. Are my medications, important papers and other life-sustaining items organized and easily able to collect and load if I have a short window to evacuate.
3. Is my vehicle ready to go with at least a ½ tank of gas at all times and emergency supplies?
4. Do I have a plan for loading pets and taking support materials they will need?
5. Am I signed up for emergency alerts?
7-1 Contacted RP about their lost chairs. They stated that they likely lost them on the afternoon of June 13 following a picnic at Mary McCallum Park. The chairs were described as patio chairs with a black metal frame and red seats.
7-2 Received two found debit cards from SHARC.
7-3 Responded to a shoplifting call at Sunriver Sports in The Village at Sunriver. The RP stated a juvenile female had entered her store at approximately 11 a.m. and stole a purple swim skirt valued at $68.
7-4 While o cers were participating in the 4th of July activities in The Village at Sunriver, a found credit card was turned over to the o cers.
7-4 Parents were having issues with their 14-year-old son who has mental health and behavioral health issues. The family is from Beaverton and o cers discussed resources in their area with them.
7-5 O cer issued a citation to a car parked roadside near Cardinal Landing bridge. They were unable to locate the owners, so the citation was left under the front windshield wiper.
7-7 Arrested a male subject for DUII-alcohol in the Sunriver Business Park.
7-7 O cer contacted RP in regard to a missing wallet. They described the wallet as a brown, torn up Levi’s wallet containing various cards, driver’s license and about $25 cash. They stated the last time they used the wallet was Friday afternoon and noticed it missing the next morning, and likely lost it at SHARC. The RP requested, should the wallet be found, that it is mailed back to them, if possible.
7-7 O cers responded to a single rollover motor vehicle crash on South Century and Lazy River Road. Subsequently, the crash investigation led to the driver’s arrest for DUII.
7-8 Responded to a found juvenile at SHARC. The juvenile had been sep -
arated from their family on the bike path and was later reunited.
7-8 Police contacted a RP in regard to their missing wallet. They described it as a brown leather wallet with a horse or a bull on the front. They reported they lost it either in the Village or at the home on Whistler Lane.
7-8 Police responded to a parking complaint on Gold nch Lane for various cars parked roadside. The owners for three of the four vehicles were asked to move, however the owner of the fourth vehicle was UTL. A citation was issued and left under the front windshield wiper.
7-9 RP contacted the Sunriver Police Department regarding a box containing several deceased puppies at the entry gate to the Sunriver Utilities compost site on Cottonwood Road. The box was removed and delivered to the Humane Society for proper disposal.
7-10 O cers were called to Sunriver Resort Lodge when a large amount of blood was found by housekeeping sta in one of the rooms. It was determined the renter had fallen and injured themself during their stay.
7-10 O cer responded to SHARC to retrieve a found Ziploc bag with money.
7-10 Two male subjects were contacted after being spotted walking on River Road. One of the subjects was taken into custody after it was discovered he had two warrants. He was later lodged at the DCJ without incident.
7-11 The department received two found credit cards at SHARC.
7-12 An unknown guest at SHARC had accidentally placed a combo cable lock around a second bike that did not belong to them. The cable lock was cut, and a replacement gun lock was used to secure the bike. The lock’s keys and cable lock was left with front desk sta .
7-12 An “Intense 29er” brand mountain bike was stolen outside of room 275 at Sunriver Lodge. The bike was not locked at the time.
7-13 A male was arrested for DUII at a Beaver Drive location.
7-14 RP reports vehicles are driving on pathway between their o ce located at 17728 Center Street and the Sunriver Lodge Village condos. RP said worst time is between 4 and 6 p.m.
7-17 Sunriver Police contacted two subjects in the north Marketplace park-
ing lot. Subsequent to the investigation, one of the subjects were taken into custody on two outstanding warrants
7-17 O cer issued an SROA citation for a white Ford truck parked on the side of the road at Cardinal Landing Bridge.
7-20 Police were dispatched to a medic assist at the Besson Day Use Area located on Forest Service Road FS410-220. A subject was transported to the hospital for dehydration.
7-24 Police received found property from Alpine Entertainment in the Village.
7-25 O cers conducted a tra c stop on Venture Lane. Subsequent to the investigation, the driver was taken into custody for violating a “no contact order” and the passenger was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant
7-25 Responded to a parking complaint on Gold nch Lane involving two vehicles. Both vehicles issued SROA citations for violating Sunriver rules about roadside parking.
7-29 A wallet was found on the pathway at the Woodlands golf course. O cers found a phone number and were able to return the wallet to the individual.
7-29 Sunriver Utilities Water had a large hole in the ground about three feet deep near the roadway on White Elm. It is marked with two cones and a thin piece of tape. Neighbors were concerned about children falling in the hole. O cer spoke with the utilities department, and they placed additional barriers around the hole and advised it will be left open until work concludes on Aug. 1.
7-29 A hit and run was reported at the Sunriver Lodge on July 29. A female was later contacted and arrested for “failure to perform the duties of a driver.”
7-30 The police received found jewelry from a Balsam Lane rental property in Sunriver. The jewelry was placed into safekeeping.
7-30 Police issued a SROA citation to a grey Toyota 4Runner parked roadside on Gold nch Lane.
7-31 Sunriver Police Department issued an SROA citation to a black Nissan Rogue parked on the side of the Meadow Road.
Serving Central Oregon for more than 25 years
ONDA to host lm festival
Oregon Natural Desert Association invites community members for a night of inspiration and discovery at the Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Friday, Oct. 4.
This unforgettable evening of captivating short films showcases awe-inspiring landscapes and emphasizes the urgency of protecting the wild places.
This year the festival returns to the Tower Theatre in Bend, and also offers a virtual, streamin-HD version for those who can’t join the in-person screenings.
Don’t miss the year’s best conservation and adventure films.
The festival’s film lineup:
• The Beauty Between
• Toxic Art
• I Am the Nature
• Healing (Tranquil Creek)
• African Voices for Africa’s Forests
• Mussel Grubbing
• Birds on the Brink
• Owyhee Canyonlands
Postcard
• Mount St. Helens: A Fire Within
• JoJo – A Toad Musical
• Paddle Tribal Waters
• Nanoscapes
For more information or tickets, visit https://onda.org/ filmfest/
THE REAL ESTATE EXPERT YOUR FRIENDS RECOMMEND!
fundraisers and National Night Out event in the Village.
Police
–In July, the Sunriver Police Department received 807 calls for service, 68 of which were emergencies. Officers investigated 72 cases, responded to 37 suspicious persons or prowlers, conducted 216 traffic stops, provided 66 community-policing responses, conducted 72 security checks, responded to 21 animal issues,
Fire Safety
Continue to be safe when floating the river
The river is almost empty… of people, that is.
By mid-September, the summer river craze is almost over, and you may find yourself with wide open waters and not another river user to be seen.
Beautiful, serene and simply relaxing.
However, it is a river, it is fast
12 noise complaints, 54 parking issues and made 22 arrests.
–Introduced Ashley Steinbrecher as the department’s new Community Service Officer.
–The license plate reader cameras have been installed on Cottonwood Road. Still waiting on county permits for the cameras on South Century Drive.
–Receiving applications for open corporal, lateral and entry level officer positions.
–Officers attended various trainings, including search warrants, digital forensics,
moving in some areas, deep in some, cool (some may say cold) and littered with underwater obstructions such a boulders, massive logs and more.
Throughout the summer, Sunriver Fire and other emergency providers up and down the river have been out helping people in distress.
Be prepared and be careful. Make sure to have a personal flotation device for everyone on board, don’t dive into unknown pools of water and don’t expect
LADDER FUELS
Debris Pickup in Sunriver
defensive tactics and biased based training.
–A recruitment video has been completed.
–Citizen Patrol has signed a policy acknowledgement and will have oversight by the new Community Service Officer.
Administration –Met with NowCFO and Mahr Accounting for SSD accounting transition.
–Continue to manage Quickbooks online transactions, reconcile payroll liability accounts and district cash flow management between First
to easily “swim” through fast currents.
Visit the Oregon State Marine Board’s webpage for your River Recreation Toolkit to best prepare for your safety on our beautiful river www.oregon. gov/osmb/info/pages/river-recreation-toolkit.aspx.
Enjoy your September, truly one of the best months to enjoy our incredible outdoors.
–Jim Bennett is the public information officer for the Sunriver Fire Department.
Interstate Bank accounts and Oregon State Treasury LGIP funds.
–Continuing in the Public Sector HR Association SCP certification course through Oct. 20. There is a final exam at the end of the course.
–Drafting new edition of the SSD employee handbook to account for various updates.
–Met with WHA Insurance representative for a discussion on property insurance needs and updates.
–Attended various meetings regarding the management agreement with Deschutes
County.
–The SSD executive assistant position opening has been posted. Dana will assist in the role until she retires in October.
Other business
–The next regular meeting of the Sunriver Service District Managing Board will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19.
The meeting adjourned at 3:14 p.m.
Approved meeting minutes are posted, as available, to www.sunriversd.org.
Please observe the following for pickup:
•There is no need to call for pickup. All roads will be checked. Have piles at roadside BEFORE the rst Monday of each month through October
•WE DO NOT PICK UP PINE NEEDLES, GRASS, LEAVES OR SMALL BRANCHES. If you include this material, the pile will be left
•If you want to dispose of grass clippings, pine needles or other organic material, it can be taken to the compost site at Lake Penhollow (for a fee)
•Cut tree branches to 8-foot maximum length
•Stack brush/branches parallel with road edge so equipment can reach it without going o road
•Do not stack materials on top of or near electrical, phone, cable boxes, water/sewer valves/meters, large rocks or sprinklers
54580 Highway 97, La Pine
Located approximately 8 miles south of Sunriver Hours: 8am-4pm Mon-Sat KNOTT
61050 SE 27th Street, Bend
Located approximately 16 miles northeast of Sunriver Hours: 7am-4:30pm daily
This service is provided free to property owners for reduction of ladder fuels. Vegetative material generated for building construction or by a ladder fuels contractor is the responsibility of the contractor and will not be removed by SROA.
Sunriver Stars Community Theater o ering Mexican cruise fundraiser
By Janet Grant
In continued efforts to build its own theater, Sunriver Stars Community Theater (SSCT) is launching a new fundraising opportunity to the public in partnership with Legacy 3 Travel.
Friends and supporters are invited to “Sail with the Stars” in 2025 down the Pacific Coast, from California to Mexico.
Guests may choose from two routes, Mexican Riviera (April 5-12) or Pacific Coastal (April 12-19) or, go on back-to-back trips for maximum fun and adventure.
Each cruise sails round trip from Los Angeles for seven nights aboard the Discovery Princess and includes exclusive Sunriver Stars activities on
board.
Rates start at $838 per person and for every reservation, Legacy will donate to the Stars Building Fund ($50 for balcony reservations and $25 for interior rooms).
The standard package includes accommodations, entertainment, basic meals and beverages.
Various upgrades are available to enhance the experience with options such as Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities, juice bar, premium drinks and desserts, fitness classes and more. A refundable deposit of $100 per person is required to confirm your reservation.
Those interested may email Michele Hans at MicheleHansTravel@gmail.com for a
customized quote, with group prices negotiated for your preferred cabin and amenities. Save the date
The Stars' will close out the 2024 season with its annual fall youth and adult production, “Huckleberry Finn,” Nov. 1416.
The play is a musical version of Mark Twain's classic story of the adventures of Huck and Tom. Based on the book by Joseph George Caruso, with music and lyrics from Edward C. Redding, the story captures the humor, heroism and hope of the original tale, without the controversial language and themes.
For tickets, show and audition info or to donate, please visit www.sunriverstars.org
If you’re thinking of remodeling and not sure where to start, now is a great time to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Neil Kelly designer. We’ll discuss your inspiration, vision, and goals for your project, answer all your questions, share ideas, and discuss schedule and budget ranges. Whether you’re in the early planning stage or ready to remodel, this is a great way to get started!
Doyouowna
Sunriver Stars is hosting a fundraising cruise to the Mexican Riviera in April.
PHOTO COURTESY PRINCESS CRUISES
Nature becomes the stage during classical piano concerts
In A Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild is an outdoor concert series where America’s most stunning landscapes replace the traditional concert hall. Guests explore the surrounding environment while listening to the music through wireless headphones, creating an immersive experience that fosters a connection with the music, nature and with each other.
Featuring classical pianist Hunter Noack, a late afternoon concert at Fort Rock State Natural Area at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22 features a stunning volcanic caldera backdrop. Noack’s piano will be set in the open area on the eastern side of the caldera’s bowl.
Ellen Waterston, Oregon’s newly appointed Poet Laureate will join Noack and present an
original poem commissioned by In A Landscape during the concert. In collaboration with Noack, Waterston created poems for several In A Landscape concerts in its nine-year history, inspired by the desert locales.
Included with a ticket purchase is a visit at the Fort Rock Valley Historical Homestead Museum to explore original homestead buildings. After the concert, come to the pie social and “barn” dance at the Fort Rock Grange.
Concert tickets are $45 at EventBrite (search for In A Landscape). Explore the 2024 concert series schedule at www. inalandscape.org.
Fort Rock State Natural Area is one of the “wildest” locations in the series. Parking at this site is extremely limited and carpooling is encouraged. Guests
may have to park up to 1/2 mile from the parking lot, depending on roadside parking availability
so please plan ahead. There will be a drop-off area in the parking lot for guests, chairs and picnics.
Hunter Noack returns for another ‘In a Landscape’ piano concert at Fort Rock on Sept. 22.
36th annual Sunriver Quilt Show a success
The 36th Annual Sunriver Quilt Show was a great success with 138 quilts displayed throughout The Village at Sunriver.
The vibrant and beautiful quilts were created by members of Mountain Meadow Quilters.
Thank you to the wonderful volunteers from Mountain Meadow Quilters, J Bar J Youth Services, and Webfoot Home Improvements.
Webfoot supplied three employees to hang quilts in the morning and to return that afternoon to take the quilts down.
This is part of Webfoot’s community support program.
Central Oregon Daily News interviewed Nancy Fischer, president of Mountain Meadow Quilters and Quilt Show director, and show-
Sunriver Music Festival: A year-round organization
Sunriver Music Festival’s 47th season concluded with expanded and engaged audiences at six Festival Orchestra concerts, a solo violin concert, piano masterclass, instrument petting zoo, and 12 open rehearsals – all packed into two weeks.
Concertgoers came to the Tower Theatre in Bend and the Sunriver Resort Great Hall to experience professional musicians who traveled from around the world to perform in Central Oregon.
“We here at Sunriver Mu-
sic Festival year-round are so grateful to the Central Oregon community each summer,”
Executive Director Meagan Iverson said.
“Residents in Sunriver and Bend open their guest rooms to musicians, and others care for musicians by providing refreshments at rehearsals, transportation, and more. There are so many ways the community is part of making the music happen!”
Now that the summer festival is over, stay tuned for Sunriver Music Festival’s eclectic yearround events.
Here’s a sneak peek at fea-
cased many of the beautiful quilts, the potholder sales, service projects, thrifty quilter and mercantile with wonderful photos that can be seen on the Central Oregon Daily News website.
The Sunriver Quilt Show is always held on the first Saturday in August and will be back again on Aug. 2, 2025.
The quilters meet at 1:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Community Bible Church of Sunriver and the fourth Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Quilt Basket in Bend.
If you are interested in learning more about the Mountain Meadows Quilters, visit moun tainmeadowquilters.org or email president@ mountainmeadowsquilter.org.
tured concerts and events for 2024-25:
• Saturday, Dec. 7: “Rock the Holidays” with Concert Rock Violinist Aaron Meyer at Sunriver SHARC Benham Hall.
GUTTER CLEANING
• Friday, Feb. 14, 2025: Valentine’s Dinner and Dance Concert at Sunriver Resort Great Hall.
• March 2025: Piano Showcase at the Tower Theatre in Bend.
• June 2025: Play On! Pickleball Tournament, Young Artists Scholarship auditions/recital and Swings Fore Strings Golf Tournament
• July 2025: Raise the Baton fundraising party.
The Sunriver Music Festival looks forward to the 48th season in August 2025. Visit www.sunrivermusic.org for information.
Volunteers from Webfoot Home Improvements assisted in hanging the quilts throughout The Village at Sunriver.
SRMF Valentine’s Day concert.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship honors member Joe Huseonica with stained glass window
By Cindy McConnell
Sunriver Christian Fellowship completed the installation of a stained glass window upstairs in the Fellowship Hall of its new building to honor Joe Huseonica.
The window, reflecting Sunriver’s natural beauty and landscape, was created by Bradley Logan of High Desert Stained Glass.
A committee, guided by Bob and Barbie Sessler, and comprised of Linda Smith, Monica Mack, Vicki Udlock, Dorothy Theodorson, Roy and Nancy Green, and Gina Tjaden worked with Logan to create a design that show’s God’s handiwork.
“Our gratitude for the true beauty of nature is revealed by the light from within the
stained glass. It expresses the essence of our souls,” Barbie Sessler said.
Joe Huseonica, a long-time member who passed away in December of 2023, spearheaded the successful capital campaign to purchase part of the old Mavericks to create a new space for the church.
Susan Huseonica, his wife, supported the process and remains an active member of SCF.
The window is a memorial to Joe and his love for God, and to his efforts for the church to have its own home. It took more than a year for the design and completion of the window. A dedication will be forthcoming, and the public will be invited.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship is located at 18139 Cottonwood Road, and services are at 10 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome.
Services are also available online at www.sunriverchristianfellowship.org, where you will find a link for past services and for “live” broadcasts.
Sunriver Antique & Classic Car Show
Flash back to the past at the annual Sunriver Antique & Classic Car Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7 in The Village at Sunriver.
The Village will be filled with antique and classic cars from the 1920s and 1930s, hot rods and who can resist the muscle cars of the 1970s and 1980s.
A number of crowd favorites will be back again this year, as well as new entrants. If you are a proud owner of car built before 1990 and would like to enter your car in the show, go towww.villageatsunriver.com/ events/sunriver-classic-car-show to sign up today.Prizes will be awarded in a variety of classes.
The Newberry Family Band will provide entertainment throughout the day.
All funds raised from car entries benefit Sunriver’s local nonprofit food bank, Care & Share. Nonperishable food item donations also are welcome.
Emailevents@alpine-enter tainment.com
The stained glass window at Sunriver Christian Fellowship honors Joe Huseonica.
Classic cars and more can be seen at the upcoming car show.
Letters from readers
By Dick and Jan Lindsay
We were disappointed to hear that the recycling center, after using it for the past 24 years, has suddenly become a nuisance, a safety issue and will be closed at the end of October.
This board decision has largely disenfranchised part-time residents who appreciate the convenience of a close-at-hand recycling facility… and we will miss it!
This leaves the inconvenient options of driving a 32-mile round-trip north to the Knott Landfill in Bend, a 16-mile round-trip south to the Southwest Transfer Station or packing recyclables in the car for the drive home.
Not every part-time owner
subscribes to Cascade Disposal side-yard pick up service.
The picture shown in the August Sunriver Scene article can be interpreted other than the complete mess as shown.
This picture was from one of the busiest holidays in Sunriver.
It offers a distorted view and hardly represents the norm.
Those who manage the facility should have anticipated the additional holiday need and made arrangements to accommodate the heavy usage.
The article claims a 35% reduction in the tonnage of recyclables coming to the depot which means 65% of the tonnage remains.
This picture illustrates a clear and obvious need for recycling
other than the services currently being offered.
At least twice this summer the facility has been filled to capacity. It seems the service needs to be expanded rather than brought to an abrupt end.
The recycling center is being used by many of us – likely the 15% not using Cascade Disposal.
Perhaps the Board could be challenged to consider a move to a less controversial site within Sunriver, or install card-entry access, or a controlled use system, (as provided at Mary McCallum Park and the boat landing), or a system to keep convenient recycling an option to ALL homeowners in Sunriver.
Scene Opinion Policy
To support a free and open exchange of information and ideas, the Sunriver Scene welcomes letters to the editor up to 250 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.
SWGA wraps up their season
The 2024 Sunriver Womens Golf Association had a busy season including 12 new members. From April to September the group enjoyed weekly Wednesday morning golf on both Woodlands and Meadows courses. Thursday afternoons there were fun nine hole rounds with beverages after at the Meadows course.
From new golfers to low-handicappers they enjoyed
SWGA club champions
Debbie Wightman (net) and Cathy Tucker (gross).
the Member Guest and Partnership Tournaments. Our Team Players had a great season. Both nine hole or 18 hole visitations at Eaglecrest, Juniper, Crooked River, Awbrey, Woodlands and Quail Run were well attended. Great way to play other courses and meet golfers. Our Club Championship two-day tournament had 18 golfers competing in two flights.
A special thank you to Debbie Ferguson for creating the SWGA website and organizing days of play with weekly emails.
VACATION RENTAL
CLEANING
I have owned a cleaning business on Maui from 2006 to 9/21. After living on Maui for 16yrs we are relocating full time to our home in La Pine. I am taking new clients for vacation rentals and family & friends homes. I am licensed/bonded and have excellent references!
DiAnna 808-268-5496 mamascleaningmaui@yahoo.com
CLEANING SERVICES
K2 Business Services, LLC has been cleaning inside Sunriver and the outlying areas since 1989. We specialize in cleaning of residential private homes for year-round residents and in privately owned family vacation homes that are used by family and extended family. Licensed and insured. Email KKBendOregon@yahoo.com or text/call Kathy at 541-419-9248
Repair, Service and Sales. Excellent customer service at affordable rates.
Your local Cal Spas dealer. Three Rivers Pool & Spa. www.threeriverspoolandspa.com
541-410-2494
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
ARE YOU HAVING INTERNET PROBLEMS?
Need help with TVs, Audio, Internet and Smart Devices? Loud & Clear
A/V Systems has 20+ years of experience. 541-241-6262
CCB#231436
DEPENDABLE 5 STAR
QUALITY VACATION
RENTAL CLEANING
Specializing in owner-operated vacation rentals. I will be your eyes and ears for everything your rental needs. Convenient monthly invoicing. I have excellent references, long-time employees, quality products too. www.vacationrentalcleans.com
Donna James 541-410-1770
Girl Friday Cleaning
JILL OF ALL TRADES
We clean private and rental homes. Also vacation and RVs in Sunriver and La Pine area. We’re celebrating our 39th year! Better business accredited and insured. 541-815-1701
NEED DECK WORK?
Deck refinishing, Deck rebuilding, Enclosures, General contracting, licensed, bonded, insured since 1992 Tubs Alive, Inc. CCB #97643, 541-593-5163
PAINT, STAIN & PRESSURE WASH
10% off Interior paint or stain if you mention this ad. Call Earth & Sky Construction and Paint today 541-815-7469
SR BLIND LADY
Bend Window Works/Bend Blinds has a special just for Sunriver area homeowners for new or replacement window treatments! Free laser measure, free take down/disposal of old blinds, free installation! And remember, fresh new blinds help rental homes rent faster! BendWindowWorks.com
541-593-8372
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!
NEED A RELIABLE PERSON FOR:
• Security home checks
• Take care of mail and plants
• Sewing projects
Serving the Sunriver area for over 45 years. Call me, Grace Phillips. It’s a matter of trust!
541-788-0199
PET SITTING
In your home while you are away, or will walk/feed daily, etc. For information, call Bonnie Rogers at 541-419-4647
Sunriver references available.
CLASSIFIED AD RATES
$17/month for 25 words
.50 cents/word after 25 Deadline: 12th of the month Email text to: sunriverscene@srowners.org
BRIDGEPORT CONSTRUCTION
Honest, reliable small remodeling contractor. 40 years experience. Call Will at 503-309-0790 Many references available. Licensed/Bonded/Insured.
ccb#76152
HOUSEKEEPING
Alison’s Resort Housekeeping is now accepting new clients. Specializing in VRBO, Air B&B, and family vacation rentals. Over 10-years experience, references. Call for free quote 541-213-5288
REMODEL & ADDITIONS
Decks, windows, tile, miscellaneous carpentry and roof repair. Ryan Carroll 541-420-0675 ryancarrollconstruction.com
Kitchen, bath and living space. Custom railings, gates and metalwork. Affordable, custom craftsmanship. Call Ken Olson Building and Design, LLC. Licensed/Insured CCB #205419 541-213-8861
TUBS ALIVE
Hot tub, deck repair and refinishing, sales, installation, inspections and maintenance in Sunriver since1992! 541-593-5163 www.tubsalive.com
License #97643, bonded, insured.
PROJECT ORGANIZATION
In business in SR since 1989, offering professional organizing for pantries, closets, garages and more. Licensed and insured. $45/hr with a 4 hour minimum. Call Kathy at 541-419-9248
Top quality construction specialists in remodels, additions and new homes. Offering consultation, design, kitchens, bathrooms, finish-work, foundations, excavation, decks and more. (541) 419-7309
Haines THOMAS FITCH CONSTRUCTION LLC
New client slots recently came available. Residential and Commercial. Bonded and Insured. Call for a free onsite estimate. M. K. Haines Services 541-977-3051
LOLO TREE WORKS Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Fire Fuel Reduction, & Emergency Tree Services. ISA-Certified Arborist Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638 Email: erin@ lolotreeworks.com CCB # 240912 Carpenter-April
