Our Town North: July 1, 2025 by MAP Publications

Above & On the Cover

Jim Toler, owner of GeerCrest Farm just south of Salem, beside one of the original fruit trees planted on the farm by Ralph Geer.

PHOTO BY MELISSA WAGONER

Other destination favorites from readers include the Alvar Aalto-designed library at Mount Angel Abbey, Silver Falls State Park, the Oregon Garden, Trinity Lutheran Church, and Salamander Island.

PHOTOS BY JIM KINGHORN, MELISSA WAGONER AND TOM COVE. DESIGN BY COPPERGLANCE

P.O. Box 927

Mount Angel, OR 97362 401 Oak St. Silverton, OR 97381

503-845-9499

ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com

ourtownlive.com

Our Town mailed free to residents and businesses in the 97362, 97375, 97381 zip codes.

Subscriptions for outside this area are $60 annually. Deadline for ads or submissions for the July 15 issue is July 7.

Paula Mabry

Editor & Publisher

Jim Kinghorn

Advertising Director

DeeDe Williams

Office Manager

Tavis Bettoli-Lotten

Designer & Copy Editor

James Day

Sports Editor & Reporter

Stephen Floyd

Digital Editor & Reporter

Melissa Wagoner Reporter

Sara Morgan

Datebook

Janet Patterson

Distribution

Food insecurity

By Melissa Wagoner

When asked if Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA) has experienced any changes in funding since the current administration in Washington, D.C. began making cuts in January, executive director Sarah Desantis said, “For better or worse, we are fortunate to be well supported by our community and do not receive much government funding for operations.”

However, SACA has historically received one annual federal grant for housing assistance in the amount of $7,500, and that program has been put on hold – DeSantis speculates possibly for good.

And the new facility SACA recently finished renovating is slated to receive a $250,000 federal reimbursement grant –invoiced quarterly – but until the next invoice for $110,000 is submitted, DeSantis won’t know precisely where those funds stand. She is, however, optimistic.

Seen from that vantage point, SACA appears to be untouched by the federal government’s reductions. But outward appearances can be deceiving, especially when the cuts that have thus far been enacted weren’t to the budgets of local food pantries like SACA or the Stayton Community Foodbank or even to regional food banks like Marion Polk Food Share. Instead, they are happening at the top of the chain, to the US Department of Agriculture – which supplies 25 percent of Marion Polk Food Share’s food – and it takes longer for their effect to trickle down.

“The funding for the program that brings food from local farmers has been cut nearly in half,” Rick Gaupo, president and CEO of Marion Polk Food Share, said. “That’s approximately 1.3 million pounds of food in Marion County or 14 percent of our food by pounds.”

While 14 percent may not sound like a lot, last year Marion Polk Food Share provided about 9.2 million pounds of food – or approximately $14 million in value –

to 100 distribution centers (both community pantries like SACA and Stayton Community Food Bank and private programs like The Boys and Girls Club) throughout the state, which means those food cuts – approximately 1.3 million pounds of food – are consequential.

“And it has a higher percentage in quality because it’s eggs, meat, dairy and vegetables,” Gaupo said. “So, for our families it’s going to have a larger impact.”

Also, the need for assistance is on the rise and has been since March 2020. So, cuts will have an even greater impact on a population already living at or below the poverty line.

“Food has gone up about 35 percent since pre-COVID times… local rent has gone up more than 49 percent… What has not gone up 35 to 49 percent is wages,” Gaupo said. “So, when we’re talking about the lowest income families, barely hanging on as expenses have increased, they’re turning to food banks for support... If you need assistance to stay in your house it is very hard to get assistance, but you can turn to a food bank… then that relieves some pressure so you can stay in your home.”

It’s a precarious balance that could get worse if the proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid – both of which were recently passed by the House – also pass in the Senate.

“SNAP is not quite getting the attention and traction it should as an area of concern,” Gaupo said. “It is money that the lowest income families need. And it is a small amount already.”

Currently set at $6.40 per day, per person, the proposed cuts would reduce that amount to $4.80.

“So, what we’re talking about is really people getting just the bare minimum of help to help make sure everyone in our community can have food and not be hungry,” Gaupo

said. “It’s a low bar to say no one should be hungry.” The monetary cuts aren’t the only changes to SNAP set forth in the proposed bill. The plan also advises making it more difficult to qualify for the program.

“So, people will be bumped off of SNAP,” Gaupo said. And then there are the added contingencies that would provide each state with the power to choose whether to continue offering SNAP at all.

“Oregon says we have a homeless crisis,” Gaupo said. “One way you support that crisis is you support the systems that keep people in their homes…”

That means supporting programs like the USDA’s food assistance programs, SNAP and Medicaid, which is also on the federal chopping block.

“Medicaid will specifically hurt our Meals on Wheels program and is scary for a different reason,” Gaupo said. Explaining, “USDA [cuts] is the food supply, SNAP will increase those in need of assistance. Medicaid… supports funding for low-income seniors, making sure they literally have food… What will happen is there will be constraints on how many people are being served?”

It’s a situation that has Gaupo concerned.

“I tell people all the time that there are three ways to help people facing food insecurity,” he said. “They are everything you normally understand about supporting nonprofits. Donate money because it really makes a difference. Volunteer… to support Meals on Wheels and the food banks. Donate food, food helps, it addresses hunger. Those are the three that I’ve always talked about.”

But now there is one more that he feels is just as important.

“Be political,” he stated. “Make your voice heard on what policies matter to you.”

Art and tea A new pairing

By Melissa Wagoner

When Pauli Bailey moved from California to Silverton in 2021, she began looking for an Oregon-based gallery to display her paintings.

“I was in the Elsinore Artists in Action [Gallery],” Bailey said. “But I had to drive to Salem all the time.”

Then in May, she and her husband, Charlie, were having drinks at the newly opened Piknik Vintage Teahouse in Silverton, when inspiration struck.

“I said, they could really use some art,” Bailey recalled. “So, I asked Dini [Schultz] if they would be interested.”

It turns out Dini and her mom Regan – Piknik’s owners – were more than interested, they were ecstatic to have Bailey’s paintings brighten the walls.

“ Regan’s excited, I’m excited,” Bailey said. “It’s such a cute shop.”

A dedicated painter since age ten, when her parents enrolled her in an oil painting class, Bailey has had multiple successes throughout her career including a series in the late ’90s of 534 paintings titled “Votives for Peace,” which she painted as a fundraiser for women in Afghanistan.

“I had an exhibit and I got some publicity,” Bailey recalled. “I sold a lot… I have 15, so they’re all out there in the world.”

Now, working in the solitude of her backyard studio, Bailey paints primarily bees, flowers and old barns – 17 of which are on display at Piknik.

“I hope to make connections and I hope to sell some art,” Bailey said,

Pauli Bailey Open House

Piknik Vintage Teahouse, 106 N. First St., Silverton Wednesday, July 23, 2 to 5 p.m. www.paulibailey.com

when asked about her goals for the partnership. “Art is funny, people either fall in love or they come back because something caught their attention.”

And, according to Piknik’s manager, Giselle, that’s already happening.

“Giselle said now people are attracted to sit [near the art],” Bailey said, “because it’s bright. It’s happy… We’re so lucky to have a teahouse in Silverton. Come by and try something new.”

Editor’s Note

Community support means a lot

Our Town launched a campaign for news team community support in the June 15 issue. To those readers who contributed, or shared words of encouragement, THANK YOU. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

We believe that the work we do to keep the community informed and to help neighbors feel like neighbors is important. The story on what we’re doing and why is here: https://ourtownlive.com/ourtown/?p=17626/. To see and hear that our readers appreciate our efforts buoys spirits and reinforces our commitment.

In the weeks and months to come we hope you’ll share ideas for what you’d like to see in Our Town and thoughts about how you’d like to receive your news. In the meantime, the campaign continues.

The launch was not perfect. An early contributor let us know the initial QR code was flawed. If you attempted to use it and were frustrated or confused, please accept our apologies. We replaced it with a secure link.

We are members of the Oregon Public Information Partnership (OPIP) which is the 501(c)(3) umbrella organization that allows donations to be tax-deductible. The donations page can be reached through this link tinyurl.com/support-ourtown-news, or this vetted QR code...

If you would prefer to make a contribution by check, please make it payable to OPIP and put Our Town – Silverton in the memo line. Mail it to Our Town, PO Box 927, Mt. Angel, OR 97362. We will deliver it to OPIP.

There’s more to come. Thank you for being part of Our Town. – Paula Mabry

Pauli Bailey and her husband, Charlie, in front of Pauli’s paintings at Piknik Vintage Teahouse in Silverton. SUBMITTED PHOTO

By Melissa Wagoner

The Willamette Valley is filled with hidden gems, those places long-time residents are familiar with (an off-the-beaten-path hike, an out of the way restaurant, or an everyday spot with historical significance) that those who are new to the area or who have less of a penchant for trying something new may not have discovered. Here are a few Our Town readers think are worth seeking out.

Silverton

Curbside Italian Kitchen – “It is not often you can go to a small town and get authentic Italian food with great service,” said Martha Artyomenko Hurley.

Wooden Nickel – “Coming up on 45 YEARS of being Silverton’s hometown watering hole, pub and eatery. A true ‘Everybody knows your name’ establishment. Great BBQ, baked breads, desserts and small-town good times,” said Sarah Dygert.

Oso’s Wine Club – “Great themes, educational presentations and amazing food,” according to Taylor Unger.

Fin+Fowl Kitchen – recommended by Pamela Miller.

Magnolia Grill – “Upscale food in a fun environment,” said Kenna First. Oregon Garden – recommended by Barbara Williamson.

Fireside Lounge at the Oregon Garden Resort – “Great atmosphere and regular musical entertainment,” said Cyndi Smith.

Thai Dish – “[F]ood…is amazing,” said Susannah Jacobsen.

Water Mountain Restaurant – “[S]mall gem for excellent food,” said Colette Clarke.

Twirling Bird Rotisserie Food Truck – “The best chicken hands down,” said Franki Steuwer.

MillTown Pub – “Family friendly restaurant with outdoor garden dining…” recommended Pamela Miller.

Silverton Bake Shop – “[F]or the yummiest baked goods,” said Franki Steuwer.

Salamander Island – “[S]pecifically in summer, not when it’s wet. [Take the] trail down the park, you can walk down the slanted hill to a swimming hole,” recommended “Missing Citizen.”

Little Leaf Café – recommended by Alice Griffin.

Silverton Reservoir – “[A] real treasure,” said Ursula Bergamo.

Abiqua Creek Swimming Hole – “Off South Abiqua Road,” said Orion White.

Vitis Ridge and Paradis Vineyards – “Their owners are wonderful people. You can’t beat the wine club deal…,” said Erica Williams.

Trinity Lutheran Church – “[S]tained glass windows and church bell,” said Raymond Kaser.

Coolidge McClaine Park – “My grandkids love to go… when they come,” said Sandy Donovan.

Buena Vista Lavender Farm –recommended by Connie Dominguez.

Brush Creek Playhouse – “[G]o watch a play this year! Or, better yet, why not audition and be IN a play?” suggested Poppy Shell.

Daylight Vintage – “Best vintage in the area,” said Leslie Kuhn.

Los Girasoles – recommended by Susannah Jacobsen.

Mac’s Place – “[M]usic nights…” MariAnne Rush said. “Dancing and fun times… especially when they play the Blues!”

Mount Angel

Mary’s Kitchen – “I think the people of Mount Angel know it well but not the surrounding areas,” said Krystian Davis.

Honey Haus – “If you’re in need of raw local honey…” suggested Artemis Anderson.

Mount Angel Abbey – “Great views, nice walk, awesome museum,” said Nikki VR.

Mount Angel Abbey Library – “The Abbey library by architect Alvar Aalto is an architectural treasure, and the contents are priceless. Anyone can go in and browse. For a nominal fee per year, you can check out too. Plus, the view from the reading room is amazing,” suggested Jackie Jensen Mills.

Benedictine Brewery – “[T]he best brews with the best view in our little neck of the woods,” said Nikki VR.

Markum Inn – “We think the Markum Inn restaurant is fantastic,” said Lynn King. El Caporal – “It’s wonderful, nice, clean, very tasty…,” said Jerry Grulkey.

Scotts Mills

Butte Creek Falls – recommended by Arnie Amsden.

Abiqua Falls – “The ‘Center of the Universe’…” said Gus Frederick.

Camp Dakota – “[B]eautiful place to camp, excellent facilities/staff close to home,” said Walter Magby.

Silver Falls State Park

The Catamount Trail – For “hiking and biking,” according to Dana Smith. South Falls Lodge – “[E]arly in the morning when it’s quiet, stroll around, the sun rising… enhancing the mist from the waterfalls, come back for a hot chocolate and hang out by the big stone fireplace,” suggested Amanda Dahlen.

A Nice Drive Away...

TopWire Hop Project in Woodburn –“What a fun summertime spot,” enthused Anne Harris.

White Rabbit Bakery in Aurora –“[I]f you’re a gluten-free person (and even if you’re not), the White Rabbit…is dreamy. Sandwiches, baked goods, and even doughnuts,” said Christy Davis.

Wilhoit Mineral Springs in Molalla – “Once a destination for those wishing to ‘take the waters...’ Now a Clackamas County Park. I often ‘take the waters’ home for use in my home brewed beer, cider and perry...,” said Gus Frederick.

Ross Kuhn, owner of Daylight Vintage in Silverton. MELISSA WAGONER

GeerCrest Farm in Salem – “Homer Davenport’s mother’s parents’ [home], and current site of one of the only remaining examples of Homer Davenport graffiti...,” said Gus Frederick.

Wavra Farms and Nursery in Salem –recommended by Christy Davis.

Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch –“[G]uided tours, sales by appointment,” said Vivienne Frankel.

Willamette Valley Smokehouse –recommended by Cara Nicole Hage.

Pechuck Lookout via High Ridge Trail near Molalla – “[O]ne of Oregon’s last standing fire lookouts; no longer in use, open to public for overnights, first come first serve, just leave it same or better than when you arrived,” Joe Ryan Bean urged. “It’s a gorgeous hike and a gorgeous spot to overnight. There is a small hard to find spring nearby… Highly recommend.”

Marketplace at the Grove in Stayton –“[W]ith unique shops, something for everyone, you can browse forever,” said Bill and Nancy Selnes.

Spotlight Community Theatre in Stayton – “Fun, family friendly environment and great shows,” said Sheenah Marie Pedersen.

Covered bridges near Stayton and Scio –Ginny Hoffer Stanerson recommended, “The driving tour of all the local covered bridges with a stop at…”

Panezanellie Breadstick Shoppe in Sublimity – “Melt in your mouth oversized breadsticks, best fresh salads, yummy pizza choices and over the top desserts. Cute family business established in a little town with great customer service and welcoming atmosphere…,” said Pamela Miller.

Tom Rock in the Santiam State Forest –“[I]s a cool cliff you can walk on and see the woods…,” said Clifford Howard.

If your favorite is not here, let us know and we’ll do this again sometime! Send your suggestion to: ourtown.life@mtangelpib.com and put Hidden Gems in the subject line.

$1,295,000

Custom home 5 bed, 2 ba. 2562 sq. st. Hardwood floors, black walnut kitchen counters.Open floor plan. Barn, shop, & greenhouse. Timber, nestled on 31.320 acres, Scotts Mills. MLS#825220

$949,000

10.41 acres in the Silverton Hills on Powers Creek. Custom home with 5bd, 3 ba, 3218 sq. ft. High ceiling, large kitchen. 4 farm bldgs. Mature timber. 3999 Timber Trail Rd., Silverton. MLS#818488

$1,200,000 4 acre Silverton estate. 4 bd, 3.5

$878,000

Classic farmhouse in the woods. 40.74 acres. Pasture, timber. Borders BLM. 24x48 shop on slab. 24x36 Equipment Bldg. Seller financing available! 20739 Hazelnut Ridge Rd. NE, Scotts Mills. MLS#823491

PRICE REDUCED! $879,000 24.16 acres. 2 bd. 1 ba. 1228 sq ft. farmhouse. Shop/office. Livestock bldg. 7560 sq. ft. 2 commercial greenhouses. sm. pond. 38591 Gilkey Rd., Scio. MLS#827670

$398,000 0.45 ac. Beautiful Santiam River frontage. Fisherman’s Paradise. 1 bd., 1 ba. 39 ft. trailer and bunk house. 10x12 shop, & 10x10 Bldg on slab. 40474 Shoreline Dr., Lyons. MLS#814406

$325,000 2 acre panoramic view home site. Approved for standard septic. Electrical vault installed. Good water well. Sellers may consider a contract. 7685 Dovich Ln. SE, Salem. MLS#827459

Under Contract SIX LOTS at $600,000 TOTAL Rosemary Way lots: 601, 605 & 611 MLS#810425; 615, 619 & 623 MLS#810404. Builder, Developer! Located in Monitor Road Estates. These lots will require wetland remediation. Buyer must have a development plan.

$299,000 Creek frontage on 3.99 acres. Bareland. Ideal for recreational use. Swimming hole. Campsite. Seller will carry a contract. Off of Crooked Finger Rd., Scotts Mills. MLS#822303

St. Michael’s Taproom of Benedictine Brewery near Mount Angel Abbey. MELISSA WAGONER

Helping Hands

$1,299,000 Forest and River Views, 27.75 Acres, Silverton Country

setting. 2658 sqft, 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, possibility for dual living. Salem. Jackson Sherwood 971-343-2475 MLS#825174

$655,000 Pioneer Village Neighboorhood near the park, soaring ceilings, open staircase, spacious chef’s kitchen with upgraded finishes. Silverton.

Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#830271

$535,000 Webb Lake Location, Upgraded custom cabinetry throughout, thoughtful floor plan, lots of built-ins. Silverton. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#830013

$795,000 One-of-a-kind custom home in Mt. Angel, great location near schools.

2,968 sqft built in 2001 with ammenities galore. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998

MLS#826550

$655,000 Elegant Victorian style house sits on a huge .61 acre lot. Historic home, 10-foot ceilings, stained glass windows. Silverton. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#828366

$499,000 Great Location in Silverton, a few blocks from downtown, renovated kitchens and bathrooms, attached work shop, zoned for multi-family potential. Michael Kemry 503-851-2914 MLS#830545

$509,900 Enjoy the water feature and private backyard, well maintained 1-story home in a quiet cul-d-sac in Keizer. Attractive neighborhood. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667 MLS#828553

$345,000 Private playground within this Silverton Neighborhood just 2 blocks away from your doorstep. Silverton. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667 MLS#826719

$639,000 Custom built New Construction, thoughtful design, open concept floor plan perfect for entertaining, 2426 sqft, 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom. Silverton. Michael Kemry 503-851-2914 MLS#827934

$469,000 Sparkling and updated bathrooms and kitchen, just blocks from downtown Silverton and Silver Creek. Sheila Sitzman 503-885-0679 MLS#829956

$590,000 Beautiful House and a massive 3 bay insulated shop, 220v wiring, lots of parking. Rare Opportunity. Keizer. Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#829599

$409,900 Potential awaits with 2 outbuildings, one is a bonus room or office. 4 bed, 2 bath, 1512 sqft with charming features. Silverton. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667

MLS#824615

$175,000 Commercial Zoned Lot in Aumsville. .25 Acre, corner of Main and 9th Street. Michael Kemry 503-851-2914

MLS#825946

and

By Melissa Wagoner

When the Silverton chapter of PEO International – a philanthropic education organization for women – presented its first scholarship to a Silverton High School senior in 1963 the sum of the award was $50.

“We’ve slowly increased the amount,” Beth Finnson – a PEO member for the past 48 years – said. “And we’ve increased from one [scholarship] to two that are $2,000 each.”

Founded in 1869 by seven female students at Iowa Wesleyan University with the goal of expanding opportunities for women, PEO has since grown to nearly a million members in the United States and Canada.

“We raise money if women want to go to school,” Sharon Rauch, a member for 19 years, said. While in the past the word “school” chiefly referred to a college or university, in recent years that definition has grown to include trade schools as well.

“And it keeps going,” she continued. “There are scholarships that follow the recipient through their education.”

That can mean funding for a master’s or doctoral degree – when gifted at the state or national level – or an undergraduate degree, a description that applies to the Silverton chapter’s two most recent awards.

“Eight applied this year,” Finnson said, of the pool of applicants she and the other members of Silverton’s PEO received from SHS this spring. “It was really fun…I felt like there is hope for the future.”

Ultimately, the organization chose Kasiah Hart, who plans to attend the University of Oregon in the hopes of one day becoming a physician and Logan Gray, who will be attending Oregon State University to begin her journey toward becoming an agricultural teacher and mentor.

“They had clear goals,” Finnson said, when asked what set these two applicants apart.

The women encourage anyone interested in learning more about PEO and the educational support the organization provides, to visit www.peointernational.org for the membership form.

No easy fix

By Stephen Floyd

SFSD unable to restore staff in ‘25-26

When the Silver Falls School District entered the 2024-25 school year, officials had just eliminated roughly 15 percent of positions district-wide to help solve a financial crisis.

The mantra among administrators and employees was, if they could endure a difficult year and use the reduction in staffing to replenish reserves and pay off debt, they could start restoring positions.

When the SFSD Board approved an $83.85 million budget June 9 for the 2025-26 school year, there was not enough room to bring back staffing as the district had hoped.

The district did approve slight increases in areas such as student safety and reading intervention, with 3.5 additional full-time positions for K-5 programs and 1.25 additional fulltime positions for middle school programs. This compares to roughly 90 full-time positions eliminated last year.

Amid declining enrollment, the district could not restore positions without returning to the unsustainable practices that created the crisis, Superintendent Kim Kellison said in a May 13 budget message.

“While there is interest in restoring staffing to previous levels, it is not financially viable in the face of ongoing enrollment decline,” said Kellison. “... right-sizing staff to match enrollment is essential to maintaining fiscal responsibility.”

The cuts were made in May of 2024 after district officials learned their reserves had been depleted due to years of overspending, and significant budgetary changes were required to avoid insolvency.

An April 2024 report by the Oregon Association of School Business Officials showed the district failed to reduce staffing when enrollment fell during the COVID-19 pandemic. The district also failed to follow its own policy of maintaining an ending fund cash balance of at least ten percent of revenue.

Additional factors contributed to the budget crisis such as years of deficit spending in the food services program and drops in state and federal revenue for special ed, according to the report.

The district has since stabilized and is projected to end the 2024-25 school year within targets for revenue and expenses.

During the June 9 meeting, Finance Director Kim Doud reported revenue would be within 0.01% of what was budgeted, and expenses would be 1.1% lower than budget. She said this could change as accounts are closed for the year; expenses could continue to come in under budget.

Doud also reported the 2024-25 school year was projected to end with a $2.36 million ending fund balance. This is lower than the $2.5 million to $3 million goal that had been set, but is also the highest ending fund balance since the 2021-22 school year concluded with $2 million in reserve.

The 2025-26 budget included a projected ending fund balance of $3.1 million, or 3.7% of total projected revenue. This was below the district’s policy of at least 10 percent in reserve. The board voted to suspend the policy for one year before passing the budget.

Doud also reported the district has paid off all unstructured debt that had accumulated in recent years, giving the district a fresh start for the 2025-26 school year. This includes vendor bills, loans from one internal fund to another, and short-term lines of credit.

However, as the district regains financial health, enrollment continues to fall.

According to enrollment figures shared during the June 9 meeting, the district lost 95 students since June of 2024, representing a 2.6 percent drop. Total enrollment remains 9.3 percent below pre-COVID levels during the 2019-20 school year.

The approved 2025-26 budget includes $25,000 to conduct a population study through the Willamette Education Service District to better-project future enrollment. This will be part of broader efforts to develop a three-year budget forecast, said Kellison, so the district can make data-driven decisions about staffing, programming and facilities.

While the future remains uncertain, Kellison said she believes “in creativity, determination and collaboration with our educators, families and community members.”

“With your continued support, we will ensure that Silver Falls remains a district where every student is known, supported and inspired to thrive,” she said.

SFSD parting ways with meal vendor Sodexo

The Silver Falls School District (SFSD) will not be renewing its contract with food vendor Sodexo for the coming school year, in favor of creating an in-house meal program.

According to Superintendent Kim Kellison, the costs associated with delivering meals across the district’s wide geographical area have caused food services to operate in a deficit.

In an email to staff, Kellison said the district has been losing money to the program for nearly a decade. During the 2023-24 school year alone, SFSD spent $400,000 from the general fund to sustain meal services.

Kellison said, even though the district joined a federal free meal program for ‘24-25, the program does not reimburse at a high enough rate to offset all the costs.

Her email said in-house food services “will provide us with more control over the program and enable us to minimize losses, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable budget.”

The new program would be run by an interim director of student wellness and achievement, who would also oversee other duties related to student outcomes, said Kellison. She said the new position will add minimal administrative costs because it would replace the food service administrator employed by Sodexo under the current contract.

SFSD spent nine months exploring solutions, with efforts led by Victor Point Principal Elyse Hansen. The district studied how other districts operate their meal programs and spoke with the Oregon Department of Education, industry professionals and vendors to explore cost-saving strategies.

Kellison said the first year of an in-house meal program could see an initial deficit but that having greater control over the program will minimize losses in the long run.

– Stephen Floyd

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St. Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton. Silver Falls Library, 410 S Water St., Silverton Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. Silverton Council Chambers, 410 N Water St. Weekly Events

Monday

Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St. Seniors 50 and older. Daily, weekly, monthly events. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org

SACA Food Pantry, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. Repeats 3 - 6 p.m. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - noon Thursdays. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tuesday - Saturday. Volunteers needed. 503-845-6998

Meals on Wheels Lunch, 11:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. $3 suggested donation. Make reservations three days in advance by calling 503-873-6906. Repeats Tuesdays and Thursdays. Silverton Recovery AA, noon - 1 p.m., 302 N Water St. Seven days a week. Open Acoustic Jam, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Bring instruments, music. Free.

Free Monday Dinner, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Stay and eat or take to go. All are welcome. 503-873-5446, oakstchurch@gmail.com

Boy Scouts Troop 7485, 7 - 8:30 p.m., St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, 211 W Center St., Silverton. Scoutmaster Dave Tacker, 760-644-3147, dave.tacker@ gmail.com

Tuesday

Bible Study, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. All welcome. 503-873-6620

APPY Hour, noon - 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Drop in for technical assistance for electronic devices. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton Mainstay, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. Community space and activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Repeats Thursdays. silvertonmainstay.org

Cub Scout Pack 485, 6:30 p.m., Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. Boys and girls in kindergarten - fifth grade. Elisha Kirsch, 503-507-6087

Growing Awareness, Nurturing Compassion, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Zoom. Secular presentation promoting mindfulness. No experience needed. Invitation for virtual gathering: compassionatepresence@ yahoo.com. 971-218-6641

Wednesday

Silverton Business Group, 8 a.m., Silver Falls Brewery, 207 Jersey St., Silverton. Networking meeting of Silverton business community hosted by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. Everyone welcome. silvertonchamber.org

Quilters Group, 9 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com

Family Storytime & Indoor Playtime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Ages 25 w/adult. Free. 971-370-5040

Mission Benedict Food Pantry, 1 - 4 p.m., St. Joseph Shelter, 925 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Repeats Friday. 503-873-7645

Silver Chips Woodcarving Sessions, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. All skill levels. 503-873-7645

Mission of Hope Food Pantry, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. 503-873-7353

Thursday

Yoga, 9 a.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Open to all. Sheila, 503-409-4498

Thursday Painters, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton Arts Association. Join other artists for open studio time. All art forms welcome. Free. 503-873-2480

TOPS (Take Pounds Off Sensibly), 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St., Silverton. Weight loss with continued support, encouragement. First meeting free. Monthly dues $4. All welcome. Dave, 503-501-9824

Friday

Toastmaster Club, 7:30 a.m., Zoom. Increase listening skills, speaking, thinking, evaluating. Contact tmcommunicators@ gmail.com for Zoom link.

Mt. Angel Model Railroad, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Depot, 90 W College St., Mt. Angel. Lionel (O-gauge), HO-gauge, N-gauge model layouts on display. All welcome. Free. Silvertones Community Singers, 10:30 a.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 Main St., Silverton. Anyone who loves to sing is welcome. Tomi, 503-873-2033

Saturday

Silverton Farmer’s Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 204 W Main St. Fresh produce, plants, flowers. 503-873-5615

Sunshine Fitness, 10 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Light exercising with “Insanity: Fast and Furious: 20-minute Insane Workout” by Beach Products. Signed waiver required. Teens & adults. Free. 971-370-5040

Saturday Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 10 a.m., Zoom. For families and friends of alcoholics. Zoom link: Janet.h.salem23@ gmail.com

Oregon Crafters Market, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., 215 N Water St., Silverton. Local crafters & artists, live music, food & spirits. Repeats noon - 5 p.m. Saturdays. “First Friday” of each month 6 - 9 p.m. oregoncraftersmarket.com

Silverton Country Historical Society, 1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Museum open for viewing. Repeats Sun. 503-873-7070

The Art of Mindfulness, 2 p.m. Silverton Arts Association. Connecting mind, heart, and body. Listen, meditate, contemplate, share thoughts. 971-218-6641

Creciendo Juntos/Growing Together Storytime, 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. ¡Leamos libros sobre ranas todo el mes! Let’s read books on frogs all month long! 971-370-5040

Just for Today Al-Anon Family Group, 6:30 p.m., Silverton Coffee Club, 302 N Water St. For families and friends of alcoholics.

Notices

MASD Free Summer Meals

Mt. Angel School District offers free breakfast and lunch for youth 1 - 18 Monday - Thursday through Aug. 14. Breakfast is 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. and lunch is 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Mt. Angel Middle School, 460 E Marquam St. Weekend grab and go meals available Thursday at lunch.

SFSD Free Summer Meals

Silver Falls School District offers free grab and go meals for youth 1 - 18 Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Aug. 22. Drive-through pickup is 11 - 11:30 a.m. at Robert Frost Elementary, 201 Westfield St., Silverton, or 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. at Mark Twain Elementary, 425 N Church St., Silverton. Meals will include breakfasts and lunches until the next pickup day. Parent/guardian pickup only; no daycare pickups.

Silverton Summer Reading

“Level Up at Your Library,” Silver Falls Library’s Summer Reading Program, runs through Aug. 10. Read books, attend library programs, and earn Friends of the Library Book Sale coupons and chances to win more fun prizes. Kids, teens, and adults are invited to participate. 503-873-5173, www.silverfallslibrary.org

Silverton City Council

7 p.m., Council Chambers. Work session followed by regular meeting. Open to public. Agenda available. silverton.or.us Scotts Mills City Council

7 p.m., Scotts Mills City Hall, 265 Fourth St. Open to public. 503-873-5435

Thursday, July 3

July 3rd Celebration

4 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Music, food and familyfriendly activities followed by fireworks display at 10 p.m. Entry is included with the purchase of general admission to the garden. Adults $18. Teens 12-17 $10. Youth 5-11 $7. Children 4 and under free. Save $2 on all tickets purchased in advance at oregongarden.org/july-3rd.

Perfect Arrangement on Stage

7 p.m., Brush Creek Playhouse, 11535 NE Silverton Road, Silverton. Brush Creek Players performance. General admission $15. Seniors & active members $12. Children 12 and under $10. Tickets at brushcreekplayhouse.org. Repeats 7 p.m. July 5, 11-12; 2 p.m. July 6, 13.

Friday, July 4

Independence Day

St. James Chicken BBQ

9 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. James Church, 301 Frances St., Molalla. 67th annual event featuring 1/2 chicken, coleslaw, baked potato, roll, dessert. Drive-thru ½ chickenonly pickup 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dine in or take out available. 503-260-6470

Mt. Angel Fourth of July

Tuesday, July 1

Board Game Design

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Explore board game design, join a game of Monopoly Junior or make your own game. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040

Wednesday, July 2

Storytime in the Garden

10:30 a.m., Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Join Stayton and Silver Falls Library for a special storytime at the Oregon Garden. Afterwards, choose a free book to keep and explore the garden. Entrance is free for those with a CCRLS library card. 503-873-5173

11 a.m., Mt. Angel. Parade starts at 11 a.m. Fireworks show at 8 p.m. at Kennedy High, 890 E Marquam St., featuring the Marion County Citizens Band and Gigglebritches providing live entertainment. Food available from Knights of Columbus and Kennedy track team. Fireworks at dusk. mtangelchamber.com LEGO Lab

1 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build a creation to display at the library. All ages. Free. Repeats July 18. 971-370-5040

Silverton First Friday

4 - 8 p.m., downtown Silverton. Live music, car show, outdoor dining, Night Crafters Market and more. silvertonchamber.org

Lunaria Opening Reception

6 - 8 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Meet the artists of July’s showings. Main Floor Gallery is “The New Works of Hollie Newton,” oil paintings by Hollie Newton. Loft Gallery is “Painted and Felted Oregon,” paintings and felted artwork by Jodi Burton. Refreshment served. 503-873-7734, lunariagallery.com

Stayton Fourth of July

6 p.m., Stayton High, 757 W Locust St. Food concessions, live entertainment, kids activities. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. No alcohol, smoking, vaping, weapons, personal fireworks or pets are allowed.

Saturday, July 5

Fireworks Over the Lake

5 - 11 p.m., Detroit City Park, 105 S Patton Road. Enjoy live music from the Never-2Late band and stick around for a fireworks display over the lake. Beer garden, dancing, yard games and food trucks. Bring chairs or blankets. Suggested donation $10. detroitlakefoundation.org

Sunday, July 6

Circle of Security Parenting

6 - 7:30 p.m. Zoom. Free virtual course with Family Building Blocks. Learn to manage parents/child expectations, gain parenting confidence, practice new ways to connect with your child. Optimal for families with children 7 and under. Free activity bag. Registration required by contacting Melodie Week at 503-769-1120, mweeks@ familybuildingblocks.org.

Monday, July 7

Music Mondays

6:30 - 8 p.m., Old Mill Park, 412 S Water St., Silverton. Today: Inner Limits. 7/14: The Crying Omas & Syco Billy’s String Band. 7/21: Marion County Citizens Band. 7/28: DTW Lite featuring Drew Medak. Free; donations encouraged. Presented by Silverton Friends of Music. info@ silvertonfriendsofmusic.org

Mt. Angel City Council

7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-845-9291, ci.mt-angel.or.us

Tuesday, July 8

Vibrant Aging Nutrition

11 a.m. - noon, Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St. Today: What foods to avoid and add. 7/22: Hydration and lemon water. $10/class for Center members. $15/ non-members. Register in-person at the Center or call 503-873-3093. nourishyounw. comVibrant Aging Nutrition

Habiba’s Village

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Habiba Addo from Ghana, West Africa, shares storytelling from her homeland. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-874-2207, silverton.us.or

Wednesday, July 9

Sensory Playtime

2 - 4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Enjoy playtime that engages all the senses and includes slime with frogs. Ages 2-5. Free. 971-370-5040

Friends of the Library

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Planning meeting to prepare for August fundraiser. All ages. 971-370-5040

Thursday, July 10

Women’s Connection Luncheon

Noon, Marquam United Methodist Church, 36971 Highway 213, Mt. Angel. Featured speakers are Janet Smith, volunteer at Salem for Refugees, and Brenda Peterson, artist. For reservations, call Stacey at 503-680-3786

Marion County Fair

Noon - 10 p.m., 2330 NE 17th St., Salem. See the animals. Ride the rides. Watch a show. Eat all the eats. Gate prices: $9 adults, $5 seniors & youth 6 - 11. Kids 5 and under are free. Sunday only: all kids 12 and under are free. Repeats 10 a.m.11 p.m. July 11-12, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. July 13. marioncountyfair.net

Potheads Craft

1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create a zany “pothead” face out of a clay pot and craft supplies. Session 2 at 6:30 p.m. All supplies provided or bring your own unique contributions. Teens & adults. Free. 971-370-5040

Friday, July 11

Owl Pellets

5 - 6:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Dissent an owl pellet, while supplies last. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

The Next Friday

5 - 8 p.m., Mt. Angel. Silverton Flywheels car show. Live music with Lytebyrds Trio. Wine and beer garden on Buttermilk Baking Co.’s patio. discovermtangel@ gmail.com

The Raptor Lady

7 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Perch Wildlife Education and Aid presentation features live falcons, owls and hawks. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Teen Hangout

8 p.m., Humpert Park, 400 Alder St., Mt. Angel. Water balloon fight. Bring your own or use the ones the library provides. Ages 12-18. Free. 971-370-5040

Movie in the Park

9:15 p.m., Humpert Park, 400 Alder St., Mt. Angel. Watch Mufasa (PG). Free snocones. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040

Saturday, July 12

Beers & Gears Ride

6 a.m. - 3 p.m., Mt. Angel Festhalle, 500 NE Wilco Hwy. Beers and Gears is oneday fundraising event designed for biking enthusiasts, regardless of skill level. Riders pay $50 for ride, lunch and two pints. Guests a$30 and people living with ALS are free. There is a fundraising minimum of $150 for participants 11 years or older. Benefits ALS Northwest. Register at alsnorthwest.org.

Emergency Preparedness Fair

10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Silverton City Hall. Get the tools and knowledge you need to protect yourself, property and loved ones in the case of an emergency. Interactive workshops, expert speakers, resource booths. Free. Open to all. silvertonfire.com

Saint Benedict

Festival

Noon - 4 p.m., Mount Angel Abbey, 1 Abbey Dr., Saint Benedict. Festival entry includes a buffet picnic lunch, two servings of local wine or Benedictine Brewery beer and all activities, including monastic organ recitals, live iconography demonstration, rare books presentation, live music, lawn games and education exhibits about monastic life. 21+ event. $65/person. Tickets at mountangelabbey.org.

Garden Concert Series

5:30 - 8 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 897 W Main St., Silverton. Features Reverend Shaky and the Part Time Believers. Bring blankets and chairs. Outside food and drinks are allowed with the exception of alcoholic beverages. Wellbehaved pets on leashes are welcome. Free parking. Ticket price includes afterhours admission to the Garden. $10 ages 13+. $5 Garden members. Ages 12 and under free. oregongarden.org

Mt. Angel Planning Commission

7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-845-9291, ci.mt-angel.or.us

Trivia Night

Sunday, July 13

Scotts Mills Historical Museum

1 - 5 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave. Open for public browsing. Free. Open by appointment by contacting Joe Plas, 503-871-9803; ksplonski@aol.com

Tuesday, July 15

Marble Maze

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create your own marble or ball maze. Ages 5-11. Free. 971-370-5040

Explorers Cooking Lab

5 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to make homemade ice cream. Ages 5-11. Free. 971-370-5040

Silver Falls Book Club

6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Discuss Trust by Hernan Diaz. Everyone welcome. 503-873-8796

Wednesday, July 16

Teen Cooking Lab

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to make homemade ice cream. Ages 12-18. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton City Council

6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Work session followed by regular meeting. Open to public. Agenda available. 503873-5321, silverton.or.us

Thursday, July 17

Silverton Kiwanis Club

Noon, Main St. Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. New members welcome. silvertonkiwanis.org

7 p.m., Pub 201 East, 201 E Charles St., Mt. Angel. Test your knowledge. Play solo or form a team of up to five people. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040

Friday, July 18

Train Storytime

10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. All aboard for a train storytime and then a short walk to visit the Train Station. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Red Cross Blood Drive

Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-3767.

Summer Block Party

5 - 7 p.m., Fr. Bernard Youth Center, 980 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Open house to view new dorm space in the monastery. Free Kona Ice, free hot dog dinner, kids’ activities. Open to all. 503-845-4097

Santiam Canyon Stampede

7 p.m., Sublimity Harvest Festival Grounds, 11880 SE Sublimity Road. Two-day NPRA rodeo. Tickets, prices and event information at scsrodeo.com.

Saturday, July 19

Give-Away Saturday

9 a.m. - noon, Silverton. Fifth annual giveaway. Put items you no longer need in your driveway with a free sign.

Garden and Quilt Tour

10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Stayton/Sublimity. PEO Garden and Quilt Tour includes entrance to four gardens and quilt display around Stayton and Sublimity. $10/person. Gardens are at 1550 and 1563 Eagle St., Stayton; 741 Fox St., Stayton; and 353 Pine St., Sublimity. Tickets available by calling 503-910-3279, from local PEO members or at each garden the day of the event.

Happy 4th of July!

On July 4th, 1776, the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to formally adopt the Declaration of Independence — a document announcing that the thirteen original colonies were formally declaring their political separation from Great Britain.

A Longing for Liberty

The Continental Congress had been debating independence for weeks and the issues were huge. Centuries of violent religious persecution by the Church of England against the dissenting Christian denominations now threatened to follow them across the ocean. In the colonists’ minds, “freedom of religion” was nothing more than the liberty to worship Christ as they believed God required of them in the Bible. There was no thought of offering the same liberty to all religions. The demand for “no taxation without representation” was a plea for the consent of the governed. The liberty the colonists longed for was simply the freedom to do what they believed before God to be right and good, not a license to do evil. That is why Patrick Henry had declared; “Give me liberty, or give me death!”

By Gregg Harris

King George would show no mercy to such rebels.

The Decision Was Made

On July 2nd, 1776, Congress voted in favor of Richard Henry Lee's resolution that “these colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States.” It was on July 4th, that the Congress adopted the ﬁnal wording of Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence and then on August 2nd the document was actually signed.

A War & A Constitution

This Called For Courage

Later on, Benjamin Franklin famously quipped as he signed his own name to the Declaration, “We must, indeed, all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.” That was no joke.

The Declaration of Independence was only the beginning. The War for Independence ran on for 8 long years, ending in 1783. The Articles of Confederation proved too weak to provide the government needed, and so, The Constitution of the United States of America was written four years later in 1787, laying the foundation for the “well ordered liberty” we enjoy today.

Is It Still “Adequate?”

Years later, while serving as our second President, John Adams wrote: “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of

He was writing amid growing concern over our nation’s moral decline. Our liberty was in fact turning into a license to sin. The “religion” Adams had in mind was not some bland kind of civil religion. It was a strong robust faith in the God revealed in the Bible. Its “morality” came not only from the Ten Commandments, but also from the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Without a sincere faith in Christ and in His Gospel, “liberty”

“Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

— John Adams, 1798

would collapse into moral chaos.

So, What is That Gospel?

The Gospel is the good news concerning Who Jesus Christ is, and what He has done for us. Jesus lived the perfect life that we have all failed to live. Then, He died in our place the death that we all deserve. He did this in order to pay for our sins. After 3 days in the grave, Jesus rose again from the dead as proof that His sacriﬁce was sufﬁcient. Now, all who believe

this good news are spiritually born again with the power needed to live for God. It is this faith in God that enables us to govern ourselves so as not to misuse our liberty.

Washington said, “Of all the … habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are the indispensable supports.”

Benjamin Franklin said; “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.” When we no longer fear God enough to restrain our sinful desires, our liberty will be lost and “masters” will appear. Think hard about that as you celebrate the 4th of July. Questions? Call 971-370-0967.

FREE TICKET! Family-Friendly

Movie

The Palace Theater Tues., July 8th, 6:30 PM Lord of the Rings #2 Rated PG-13 First Come, First Served.

Bring Your Family & Friends!

Quality Dental Care in a Friendly Environment

Roger Louis Brown

April 9, 2020 – June 16, 2025

Roger Louis Brown was born at Silverton hospital on April 9, 2020 to Jared and Danielle Brown. After a two year battle bravely facing Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma, Roger spent his final moments at home with both parents by his side on June 16, 2025 at the age of five.

Roger was a wildly intelligent little man who loved hanging out at the Drakes Crossing and Silverton Fire Departments. He loved preschool, “Teacher Meg”, and any day his mom would volunteer in his class. He was a huge fan of all construction equipment and had become an excellent operator of all of Papa’s equipment.

Roger’s time with us was far too short, but his presence lit up every room. Roger’s brilliant blue eyes — framed by his signature blue glasses — revealed a soul far beyond his years: wise, mischievous, and endlessly playful. His baseball hat was rarely off, and his unforgettable grin, often tinged with just a spark of mischief, could disarm anyone.

Roger loved big. He danced with abandon, twirled and spun to music that moved his soul, and found endless joy in excavators, skid steers, playing in Rock Land, fire trucks, and the magic of heavy equipment. He was Paw Patrol’s biggest fan, loved Mr. Chris from Let’sDig18, and watched Bluey with pure delight, often quoting it or acting it out, bringing the stories to life for those around him. But more than anything, he loved being with his friends and family. His love was fierce, unconditional, and unwavering, and in return, he was surrounded by a love that will carry his memory forever.

Roger fought hard, with courage beyond his years through every treatment, every poke, and every scan. He approached his cancer journey with an incredible mix of strength, honesty, and emotion. When it was time, he found the words and the bravery to let his parents know: he had done enough. And even in those moments, he continued to be our teacher by reminding us what it means to truly listen, to love without limits, and to let go with grace.

Roger was preceded in death by his great grandfather, Bill “2Poppy” Steffen, and his grandfather, Roger Bowman. Roger leaves behind his parents, Danielle Brown and Jared Brown; his grandparents, Julie & Paul Brown, and Joyce Bowman; Great Grandma Joani Steffan; aunts and uncles, Randi, Rachel, Clint, and Sierra Bowman, Matthew & Britney Bowman, Brittany & Alex Hibbert, and Elise & Lucas Brown, along with many other relatives and loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger’s honor can be made to either the Children’s Cancer Therapy Development Institute for their Rhabdomyosarcoma Lab in their efforts to find a cure, based in Hillsboro (https://cc-tdi.kindful.com/ honor-pages-2017/roger-louis-brown-in-loving-memory ) or to Silverton Fire Association with the memo line “Roger Brown”.

Though five years is never enough, Roger’s life was full — full of laughter, heavy equipment, music, cuddles, joy, and the kind of beauty that many never find in a lifetime. He had a rare ability to find the good, even on the hardest days. That was his gift to all of us.

We will love you forever, Roger. Thank you for every moment and thank you for being ours.

Passages

David McDonald

David McDonald was a well known muralist in Silverton.

Feb. 5, 1948 – June 9, 2025

His mural works include “The Oregon Trail” (on the former Bethany Market), “The Mammoth” (enlarged oldfashioned camera), the original version of “The Four Freedoms” (now demolished), “Homer Davenport,” “Our Twentieth Century,” “Silver Falls Timber Co.” (with “pond monkey logs”), “Silverton Pet Parade,” “Don Pettit, Silverton’s Astronaut,” the 9/11 Memorial mural, and the portrait of Orville Roth at Roth’s Market. His last mural was for the Mount Angel Festhalle that depicts scenes from Oktoberfest.

He worked at Roth’s in Silverton for 20 years and was known for his poster artwork and humorous depictions in the store.

David was an Army veteran and served as a member of the Old Guard and patrolled

Mary Ellen Cumins

Mary Ellen Cumins, beloved mother and ‘Oma,’ passed away peacefully home on May 29, 2025.

She is survived by her daughter, Ronda, and son-in-law Jeff Varney; granddaughters, Brittney and Autumn; grandson, Eli; great grandchildren, James, Audrina, Trinty, Payson, and Noah.

the Grave of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. He served when required at the White House and did mural work when requested at various sites in Washington, D.C.

He also worked with the Children’s Theater in Sacramento, California by casting, producing and directing their theater productions. Additionally, he created posters for the Pentacle Theatre in Salem.

He had an artist’s soul, a poet’s heart, and a love for history, crossword puzzles, old movies, and most of all, his dog, Bocelli. He passed away due to heart complications.

He is survived by his brother, Roger McDonald in Hawaii, and his son, Steven Armstrong in Keizer, Oregon.

Feb. 11, 1948 – May 29, 2025

Mary is also survived by her step-son, Ron Cumins, and step-grandchildren Zachery, Joseph, Alex, Benjamin, and Bethany.

Mary was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and moved to California as a child.

She married Anthony Microulis and eventually moved to Hemet, California.

Many years later, she married Gerald Steven Cumins and began a real estate appraisal business after retiring from Hemet Federal Savings and Loan. Mary and Steve moved to Silverton, Oregon in 2006. She enjoyed spending time with family, gardening, volunteering at the hospital and Senior Center, reading Scripture, and line dancing.

Mary’s family would like to thank her numerous friends, neighbors, nieces, nephews, nurses, and health aides for all of their kindness and genericity. Your loving spirit has been a blessing and precious gift to them. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

The 9/11 Memorial mural by David McDonald on C Street in Silverton.

Cornelia Biggs

Feb. 17, 1937 – June 5, 2025

Cornelia Biggs was called Connie by everyone she met. She was born in Tennessee in 1937, the youngest of eight children. Her parents were Martin and Martha Erwin who both preceded her in death. Connie’s oldest adult child, Rocky Barstad, preceded her in death in 2015.

She is survived by Denise, Nathaniel and Kyle. She was a loving soul on fire for God, whom she served her whole life. She married Richard Barstad in 1954 and was devoted to and cared for him until his cancer consumed him in 1985.

She met and married Paul Biggs in 1991 and they enjoyed many happy years until his passing in 2015.

She had worked hard all her life always making time for her family and friends. She was quick to help those in need. She handled many struggles in life with calm intelligence.

Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

Submissions Welcomed: Our Town appreciates the opportuity to share life’s Passages with our readers. If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, college graduation or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com or mail it to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mount Angel, OR 97362, or drop it by our office at 401 Oak St., Silverton any weekday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Richard Lewis Pfeifer

Richard (Rich) Lewis Pfeifer passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2025, in Silverton, Oregon, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by love, in the arms of his wife, Karen Pfeifer, and his daughter, Lucille Gray.

March 16, 1928 – June 13, 2025

Rena Lafky passed away peacefully after a long and interesting life on June 13, 2025. She was born in Salem, Oregon on March 16, 1928 to George and Rena Skaggs. She graduated from Salem High School and went on the graduate from Oregon State University with a Home Economics degree.

She was an adventurer and keen observer of diverse cultures, traveling all across the globe, from Antarctica to a trek in the far North of Canada to see the Northern Lights, from Tasmania to Patagonia to Norway and Finland, and many more. She was one of the first few who traveled to the USSR, Antarctica, Cuba, Iran, Jordan, Syria and China in the early years of allowing tourism. She made friends worldwide, observing daily life through her journals. She traveled diversely, always observing along the journey in hostels, hotels and tours.

She was happily married to Ray Lafky, who preceded her in death in 1972. Both her sons, Jay and Stephen Clark also preceded her in death.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Sara Clark and Dan Clark, as well as her daughter-in-law, Eileen Clark.

She was an avid life-long reader of books, and member of Salem Public Library for many years. Donations may be made in her memory to the Salem Friends of the Library. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

July 23, 1963 – June 5, 2025

Rich was a man of humor, kindness, and quiet wisdom. Born to Richard and Lois Pfeifer, who preceded him in death, he grew up alongside his beloved sister, Kathy Pfeifer. Rich dedicated over 30 years of his life working as an RV plumber in Mount Angel, Oregon, and proudly served in the Army National Guard for nine years.

A man of many passions, Rich collected black powder rifles and was an active member of several black powder clubs. His love for classic rock, camping, and

being part of the Eagles Club were some of many interests he had.

Rich’s heart was as generous as his humor was sharp. He never missed a chance to volunteer –whether it was picking kids up in the church van for Sunday school or offering a helping hand to anyone in need. His jokes, Seinfeld references, and playful antics brightened every room.

Rich believed in living fully and loving deeply. His warmth, loyalty, and ability to make people laugh will be missed beyond measure but carried on in the hearts of those he loved.

Rich’s memory and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind will endure in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

Boys volleyball

Silverton took fifth in the Class 5A boys volleyball tournament at Hillsboro’s Olympus Sports Center. The finish follows a second-place result in the Class 5A-4A tournament a year ago, when the Foxes’ program debuted.

The Foxes, who were seeded fifth for 2025, opened with a win against No. 4 Ashland and then fell in the semifinals against No. 1 Parkrose. La Salle Prep then downed the Foxes in the game for third place.

Foxes standout Elisha Short was named the state’s most valuable player for the second consecutive year. On the first all-state team were Siverton’s Tristan Keopadapsy and Trevor Redman-Brown

“We were the only 5A team present without club players on the team that made it to state,” noted Foxes coach Benson Short, “and we were one of the youngest, carrying six sophomores and two freshmen. We were also the least experienced team again, having our veteran players still only in their second year that they had ever played volleyball.

Of the 16 athletes we took to state, we had five varsity returnees, four that were JV last season, and seven that had never played until this season. Pretty amazing.”

Transfers: In April I used this space to write about transferring after watching transfers play a key role in state basketball championships won by the Crater, Salem Academy and Stayton girls. The Silverton and West Albany girls perhaps finished better than they would have because of transfers and the Regis and Cascade girls and Cascade boys clearly were hurt by the loss of key players to other schools.

That’s a lot of impact given I cover just seven schools for Our Town (Silverton, Mount Angel & Scotts Mills), Our Town:

Santiam and The Canyon Weekly. By highlighting the significance of transfers in just one year within the limited pond in which I work… that tells me that either this is an outlier of a season or something more serious is going on.

Apparently the Oregon School Activities Association, which governs high school sports in Oregon, is leaning toward the serious side.

“We know that transfers are seemingly more and more common and have put together a transfer/eligibility task force to examine our current rules and gather input from schools about potential adjustments,” OSAA executive director Peter Weber told Our Town

The 17-member task force, which includes Weber as well as Regis Athletic Director Jeff Chandler, already has met four times. Those with suggestions for the task force to consider can contact OSAA assistant executive director Laura Brownrigg at laurenb@osaa.org

“Such a complicated question. I think high school is a short portion of someone’s life and if they are not having a great experience where they are and feel they may create great memories somewhere else then they need to try that. It is certainly more prevalent than it used to be and some of that is the OSAA is not sure how to monitor it. I know the grass is not always greener on the other side, but sometimes it is.

I also checked in with coach Tal Wold, a state title winner with the Silverton and Stayton girls and one of the sharpest minds in state hoops. Here is what he had to say:

“You have on one side of the coin the ‘persevere and make the best of it where you are approach’ and then I hear the argument ‘I need a fresh start, new friends etc.’ What is going on around here is nothing compared to what takes place in the Portland and Eugene areas. I can see both sides but do not have an answer and cannot say it is totally a negative. I had a transfer this year and more than just basketball she will say her life is so much

better and positive from school, social, attitude, etc., and I know we feel so lucky to have her and her kindness. We added a great friend for life.”

Any other thoughts out there? Happy to publish responses in a future column.

Friday, July 4 • 9am—3pm

Girls Tennis: Shawn Pool, the long-time Silverton coach who has made the Foxes consistent dual meet contenders in the tough Mid-Willamette Conference, has announced his retirement.

Pool and the Foxes just finished one of their better seasons as doubles players Ashlyn Davisson and Maggie Davisson and singles player Audrey Gardner placed at the state 5A tournament, where Silverton finished sixth in the team scoring.

“A great season,” Pool told Our Town “It’s also my last season. After coaching for 18 years, I had to step aside due to health issues. I’m going to miss it. 18 years makes it a big part of my life.”

Got a news tip? Email me at

½ Chicken Drive-Thru: $9

Chicken Dinners: $15 (available 9am—2pm, dinner includes ½ chicken, coleslaw, baked potato, roll, dessert)

CASH/CHECKS/CREDIT

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301 FRANCES ST., MOLALLA

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Summer Pickleball Hours

The Fourth Estate Building blocks

As you celebrate our many freedoms during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, thank newspapers. They were the weapons of choice used by the radicals of the American Revolution. The pen, it turns out, really is mightier than the sword.

I came to learn this during the nation’s Bicentennial, a year-long celebration in 1976 of the 200th year since the Declaration of Independence was issued by folks like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. You’ve probably heard of them.

During the Bicentennial, the nation held many celebrations – fireworks and parades were the order of the day on July 4, of course. But there were also many projects that didn’t make as much noise.

Independence Square in Philadelphia was cleaned up. Even Queen Elizabeth II made a celebratory visit, presenting the U.S. with a replica of the Liberty Bell, thus proving that, a couple of centuries later, Great Britain was a good loser.

But one of the most bizarre Bicentennial projects involved me. As a recent graduate of the University of Alaska, I was made editor of The 1776 Gazette, a weekly newspaper published by the journalism department that printed the news of the week from 200 years ago. The idea was that students would write the historical stories and I would put them in newspaper form. Copies of the newspaper were mailed to hundreds of libraries around the country.

I had to write every story in the entire newspaper every week.

This was not easy. Also, history did not unfold in 52 tidy installments through the year. Nor did it strictly follow the narrative that we had been taught in high school.

History, it turned out, is a bit messier.

I had microfilm copies of a few newspapers that were published in 1776, which made my job a lot easier. I made photographic copies of the more interesting pages and rewrote some of the stories to make them appropriate. Most of the original stories weren’t written in a journalistic style at all. They were usually letters, observations and reports written by various hotheads and cranks who wanted to break away from England.

A few newspapers also opposed breaking away. I had no idea.

One neutral newspaper was The Pennsylvania Evening Post, which was first to publish the Declaration of Independence on July 6, 1776.

That’s right. It took two days to publish the most important document in the history of our country.

As interesting as the “news” were the advertisements that appeared in some of the newspapers. One front-page ad I found involved selling slaves.

So while many newspapers were on the “right” side of history, supporting the rights of men, some were also offering men for sale.

The declaration states that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Unless you happened to be a slave. Or a woman. History is indeed a messy business, even in the context of the American Revolution.

But that history was not played out on the internet or TV. The good, the bad and the ugly appeared in the pages of America’s newspapers.

In every sense, the United States exists today not only because of the heroism of the founders, soldiers and other colonists, but the newspapers that knitted a new nation together.

Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.

ANGEL AMERICAN LEGION POST #89

Thank you to the community members who joined us Memorial Day at Calvary Cemetery honoring our veterans. A special note of thanks to Marion County Citizens Band, Father Caldwell, Mount Angel Abbey, St. Mary Parish Music Ministry, Mt. Angel Fire Department, Mt. Angel Police Department, Mark Wiesner Family, Mayor Pfau, Calvary Cemetery staff, St. Anne’s Altar Society, and Alex Seifer/TAPS for their participation and support.

GENERAL

PORCH SALE July 11 &12, 9-4, 322 Wildflower Dr, Stayton. Household, collectible, vintage items, Craftsman 10-inch table saw model 113.298470, router table. CASH ONLY.

67th ANNUAL ST. JAMES

CHICKEN BBQ Friday, July 4 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 301 Frances St., Molalla 97038. ½ Chicken

‘to-go’: $9. Chicken dinners: $15 dine-in and to-go, available 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (includes ½ chicken, coleslaw, baked potato, roll, dessert). Cash/checks/credit. Call or text 503-260-6470 with any questions.

PASTOR CHUCK BALDWIN

Liberty Fellowship, Kalispell, Montana satellite group Sundays, 1:30 p.m. Call Kristen, 503-990-4584

SERVICES

TODAY IS YOUR LUCKY DAY

This is your lucky number!

All Set Plumbing is standing by at 503-964-4965. Jason is ready to fix your plumbing.

YOUR RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE

Saturdays Age 10-12 at 5:00, ages 13 and up. 6:15, Security and Correctional Officers. 7:30, private lessons available. International Certification Curriculum available upon request. Call Harold 503-391-7406

HANDYMAN & HOME REPAIR

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MAGIC CARPET CLEANING

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SOUNDS GOOD STUDIO

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GOT STUFF YOU WANT GONE? From yard debris to scrap metal. From garage sale left overs to rental clear outs. We repurpose, recycle, reuse, or donate what we can. Call and find out what we can do for you. $20 Minimum. Call Keith 503-502-3462

JESSE’S LAWN SERVICE & HANDYMAN Pruning, edging, trimming, blackberry cleaning, gutter cleaning, arborvitae, moss treatment, yard clean-up, stump grinding, powerwashing, haul-away. 503-871-7869

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#T2890

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#T2886 BLUEBERRY FARM

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NEW! – #T2868 CREEKSIDE GETAWAY 2 BR, 2 BA 2029 sqft 1.48

Acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $1,390,000 (WVMLS#830250)

NEW! – #T2877 BUILD YOUR OWN 3 BR, 1 BA 1080 sqft 9.47 Acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $400,000 (WVMLS#830242)

NEW! – #T2894 SILVERTON ACREAGE ESTATE 4 BR, 3.5 BA 3804 sqft 3.02 Acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $945,000 (WVMLS#830085)

NEW! – #T2879 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION 4 BR, 2.5 BA 3321 sqft 2.07 Acres. Silverton. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $1,765,000 (WVMLS#829418)

#T2866 HOME, ACREAGE & OFFICE SPACE 3 BR, 3 BA 2252 sqft 6.68

Acres Call Chuck at ext. 325. Silverton. $799,000 (WVMLS#826058)

#T2887 DREAM LOCATION 3 BR, 3 BA 3321 sqft 2.92 Acres, Salem. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $975,000 (WVMLS#829336)

#T2891 – ACREAGE PROPERTY 4 BR, 2.5 BA 2558 sqft 3.16 Acres, Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $975,000 (WVMLS#829686)

NEW! – #T2876 COMM-RETAIL-CONDOS 9,500 sqft. Mt. Angel. Call Michael at ext. 314 $850,000 (WVMLS#829897)

#T2864 MULTI-USE BUILDING 3862 sqft. Silverton. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 or Michael at ext. 314 $650,000 (WVMLS#825970)

#T2879 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

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SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

NEW! – #T2893 HASSLER FARMS ESTATES 4 BR, 2 BA 1813 sqft. Sublimity. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $569,700 (WVMLS#829967)

#T2880 WEST SALEM LOCATION 4 BR, 2.5 BA 3055 sqft. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $668,700 (WVMLS#828689)

#T2887 DREAM LOCATION 3 BR, 3 BA 3321 sqft 2.92 Acres. Salem. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $975,000 (WVMLS#829336)

#T2884 WONDERFUL RURAL SETTING 2 BR, 2 BA 1052 sqft. Salem. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $476,800 (WVMLS#828718)

#T2888 SOUTH SALEM GEM 4 BR, 2.5 BA 1652 sqft Salem. Call Michael at ext. 314 $449,900 (WVMLS#829536)

#T2889 MCNARY HEIGHTS ESTATES 3 BR, 2.5 BA 3321 sqft

Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $349,800 (WVMLS#829480)

#T2878 NATURE’S PARADISE 4 BR, 4 BA 3463 sqft. Salem. Call Chuck at ext. 325 $749,000 (WVMLS#828227)

SOLD! – #T2816 2 BUILDABLE

LOTS .45 Acres. Silverton. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $99,900 (WVMLS#814998)

#T2886 BLUEBERRY FARM

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#T2882 CHARMING HOME $477,000

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Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $825,000 (WVMLS#827318) #T2874 PALO PARK MANUFACTURED HOME 3 BR, 2 BA 1428 sqft Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $99,800