Our Town North: July 1, 2026

Time to enjoy life!

Country Meadows Village offers the perfect blend of independence, connection, and peace of mind. Our community is vibrant, social, and designed to support a fulfilling lifestyle.

A lifestyle of ease and convenience. No more worrying about yardwork, repairs, or unexpected household expenses. Our all-day dining with an in-house chef ensures fresh, exceptional meals, and our transportation services, housekeeping, and amenities make daily life smoother and more enjoyable.

Social connection is easy with neighbors close by and a full calendar of activities from brain health classes to fitness sessions, social hours, and special events. You’ll meet new friends and stay engaged.

Safety, security, and peace of mind with 24-hour staffing, emergency response systems, and secure buildings.

Healthy living. Our fitness center, walking paths, brain health programs, and nutritious dining options support a healthy, active lifestyle.

Flexibility for the future. We offer multiple levels of support, from independent living to assisted living, allowing residents to stay in the same community even if their needs change.

S. Evergreen Road, Woodburn 503-982-2221 CountryMeadowsVillage.com

Our Town has been delivering trusted, independent journalism for more than 20 years. Your tax-deductible donation will help us continue this important work. tinyurl.com/supportourtown-news

(Oregon Public Information Partnership). Put “Our Town - Silverton” in the memo line. We’ll mail your receipt. Send to: Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mt. Angel, OR 97362

Something to Do

A bang-up 4th!

By Paula Mabry

Mount Angel is famous for its ability to throw a great celebration.

Now, with a parade featuring an American Legion color guard complete with three-cornered hats and muskets, military vehicles and an U.S. Air Force flyover, decorated floats, tractors and the smiling faces of happy children lining the streets, the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America will be no exception.

In fact, this year’s 4th of July promises to be exceptional.

The Saturday event, organized by the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce, will start with the lining up of the dozens of parade entries in the Kennedy High School parking lot early in the morning.

At 11 a.m. the parade begins winding its way from Marquam Street, through the neighborhood to Garfield Streer and downtown. The culmination -- and announcer’s booth -- is at City Hall.

It gets crowded along the route, and spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for viewing comfort and water and sunscreen for safety and red, whit and blue attire for a show of community spirit.

After the excitement of a vibrant hometown parade the

community relaxes for a bit, building up the energy for the evening festivities that return to high school and middle school sports fields.

At 6:30 p.m. the Marion County Citizens Band will perform patriotic tunes. Gigglebritches the Clown will be out in the crowd entertaining with fantastice balloon art. Food will be available for purchase from the Knights of Columbus and Burger Time. The JFK Track Team will

be on hand to help out.

Once again, lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged.

At dusk a special, extended fireworks celebration begins. Organizers say it promises to be the biggest and best ever.

As you gather up your belongings after the show, make sure to also remove any trash that has been generated. Help preserve the integrity of the sports fields for Mt. Angel’s students.

The Chamber urges the community to join in acknowledging the volunteer efforts of the Mt. Angel Fire District and thanking the fireworks sponsors:

Platinum Sponsors: Mt. Angel Oktoberfest and Roth’s Fresh Market

Gold: Direct Link and Clinkscales

Silver: Mt. Angel 76 gas station and Woodburn Nursery and Azaleas

Bronze: Mary Kohler, Pete Wall, Butsch Insurance, Purdy Enterprises, Annen Bros, Mt. Angel Wellness, Zest Catering, Ann Kraemer, and Greg’s Automotive.

See the Mount Angel Chamber of Commerce website at www.mtangelchamber.com for more information and a complete list of sponsors.

4th of July BBQ HQ!

Double fun America’s 250th, Historical Society’s 50th celebrated July 3rd

By Melissa Wagoner

Tracy Duerst remembers America’s bicentennial 50 years ago.

“I was a teenager at the time…” Duerst recalled. “Silverton had a big celebration... Many community groups and schools had special events to commemorate this historic event.”

So, it came as a surprise when, approaching the 250th anniversary, there didn’t seem to be as many plans. That’s when she decided to get involved. And, because she has been a volunteer with the Silverton Country Historical Society (SCHS) for the past 15 years, she knew just who to contact.

“We were late in planning so [we] tried to think of ideas that wouldn’t take too much effort to implement,” Duerst said. “We’ve been searching through our archives for all the bicentennial items and are excited to show off how our community celebrated.”

The SCHS is also excited to combine this larger celebration with the one the

Anniversary events

July 3. 5 to 8 p.m.

Silverton Country Historical Society Museum, 428 South Water St.

• Heritage Storefront Tour

• Guided tours of the WWII Observation Booth

• Living history tours of the museum

• Music by pianist Finn Yang & Friends

• Free popcorn, lemonade and raffle

Presentations:

Mayor Jason Freilinger, 5 p.m.

Fred Parkinson, 5:30 p.m.

Time capsule ceremony, 6:30 p.m.

organization has already been hosting all year – their own 50-year anniversary.

“We will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the official grand opening and dedication of the museum, July 4, 1976, when the title of the [building]

was turned over to the mayor of the city, Fred Parkinson,” Duerst said. “There was a crowd that gathered in front of the museum back on July 4, 1976, and we hope to have a crowd gathering in 2026 also.”

But this time the festivities are actually scheduled for July 3, beginning with a Heritage Store-front tour of 16 businesses located on Water, Main and First Streets.

“The businesses will be displaying historic photos in their windows of what their building looked like in the early days of Silverton…” Duerst said. Between July 3 and Sept. 7 “... Our goal is to turn downtown Silverton into an open-air museum that residents and visitors can enjoy 24/7. Tour maps will... be available on our website [silvertonmuseum.org], at the participating merchants, and at the Chamber office.”

At the SCHS Museum from 5 to 8 p.m. on July 3 the festivities will include music by jazz pianist Finn Yang and Friends, free popcorn and lemonade, a tour of

the WWII Observation Booth from a volunteer who oversaw it during the Cold War, and tours of the museum itself.

“We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful museum in our community…” Duerst said. “Since people will be in town for First Friday, we thought it would be good to open…for a special night and for people to learn more about the history of Silverton and the museum. We will have displays ... from the Silverton Bicentennial and photos of Fourth of July parades in Silverton from the early 1900s.”

At 6:30 p.m. SCHS will begin compiling items for a time capsule that will be sealed on Aug. 9 (during the Homer Davenport Days) for long-term storage at City Hall.

“We want time for the community to help suggest items to put in it…” Duerst said. “We hope that children and young adults will come to watch and be a part of this historic event that they will then remember as adults in 2076 when it’s opened.”

Bethany bobcats

By James Day

Bethany Charter School is a little quirky. About two miles west of Silverton on Hazelgreen Road, from the outside it is rather nondescript. You need to go inside to discover its charms.

There are huge bobcat prints on the floor, honoring the school mascot. A lengthy stretch of wall contains dozens of muck boots, a donation that helps the students learn their science lessons in the nearby wetlands. Turn a corner and there is a water feature. Small huts tucked into nooks and crannies are used for counseling sessions. A quote from basketball great Magic Johnson adorns one wall. Another wall features the word PRIDE in large capital letters. Bobcats, you see, are members of a pride, and at Bethany it stands for Practice kindness, Respect, Inspiration, Determination and Excellence.

The job of taking care of this pride of bobcats has been Kathy Frank’s for the past 20 years. The school has been around for 21 years. Year one did not go well, Frank said, “so they started over by hiring a principal. That was me.”

When Our Town visited on a warm June morning, Frank was in the process of cleaning out her desk with longtime administrative assistant Amy Buchheit, who is also retiring. Frank got her teaching degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, taught one year in the state and then,

Happy Independence Day!

Wishing you a bright and happy Fourth of July.

Timothy L Yount Financial Advisor

313 N. Water St. Silverton, OR 97381 503-873-2454

Daniel Hailey Financial Advisor

108 N. First St., Suite 101 Silverton, OR 97381 503-874-6162

Principal Kathy Frank spent 20 years shaping a pride

as she put it “headed out on the Oregon Trail for greener pastures in 1989.”

She taught at Central Howell, then in Aumsville, and then back at Central Howell while she worked on her master’s at the University of Portland and her administrator’s license at Portland State.

“My colleagues at the time all thought I was crazy taking on the principalship at Bethany, and I did too at the time,” Frank said. “Through many growing pains, trial and error, it is what it is today.”

A charter school is a different breed of cat (pun intended). Here is how Frank describes its benefits and challenges: “Bethany is a charter school, that being a school of choice for parents wishing their children to attend. Charter world is difficult in that you receive 19percent less funding per student, you have parents choosing to have their children attend the school, and you are limited by professional resources other schools have the opportunity to seek out. The reason Bethany Charter School was a good fit for me is that I was able to put students first in any decision.

“I am a bit of a rebel who grew with confidence throughout my career to use common sense knowledge to know what is good for kids. Buzz words and practices come and go (but) recognizing what works from these education cycles and improving on the positive take from the education philosophy is what I was able to do.”

When asked what she will miss most as she leaves Bethany, she said “the people are who I will miss most. We have built a little red schoolhouse community who cares and looks out for each other all while having fun and laughing.”

Frank will be replaced by Kasshawna Knoll, a Scotts Mills resident who is stepping down from a position on the Silver Falls School District board to take the Bethany post.

“Kathy Frank has been instrumental to the success of Bethany Charter School and her service to future Foxes has been paramount to their success at the next level,” Silver Falls School District Superintendent Kim Kellison said. “Kathy is a passionate, creative educator who has devoted her life to impacting students in the Silver Falls community. We wish her the very best of luck in retirement and will never forget her contributions to education and commitment to her students and the district overall.”

Next for Frank, she says is perhaps “five years of rolling around in a mini camper van and playing disc golf. Loving my grandchildren and hopefully being able to help schools that are having cultural challenges.”

MASD budget status quo amid growing uncertainty

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel School District has proposed a budget with no major changes for the 2026-27 school year, but with an eye toward future reductions amid revenue instability and enrollment declines.

On May 26, the district’s Budget Committee approved a proposal with $13.16 million in general fund expenses, up slightly from $12.51 million this school year.

The MASD Board met June 10 for a budget hearing and approved the proposal.

Enrollment was projected to decline from 691 this year to 682 next school year, and is expected to continue gradually falling in the coming years. Though enrollment was up this year from 658 students the year before, the district is treating this bump as an anomaly and based its budget on recent trends of enrollment decline.

Superintendent Lisa Harlan said while no cuts were made to staff in the proposal, reductions may be required in the coming years if budget forecasts do not improve.

“I believe we will be looking at scenarios where cost will continue to outpace the revenue from the State School Fund, and we will be forced to make some hard choices about staffing and services,” Harlan told Our Town

Districts throughout Oregon are cutting expenses as they budget for next year due to a number of challenges

including rising PERS obligations, increasing staffing costs and stubborn inflation. The North Santiam School District is cutting $1.18 million from next year’s budget–a reduction of 3.5 percent of this year’s general fund–and is looking at eliminating positions and reassigning staff. Salem-Keizer Public Schools is looking at cuts of up to $25 million, roughly 3.6 percent of its general fund.

Harlan said MASD is currently on stable financial footing “because of careful planning and cautious spending” by district officials. She said this was due in no small part to Business Manager Kristi Brackinreed, whom Harlan called “key to our success.”

At the same time the district will closely monitor budget forecasts next school year, said Harlan, and cuts to staff and services may become necessary for the district to spend within its means.

The district was able to avoid staffing cuts for the coming school year in part by diverting funds that would have gone into financial reserves, Harlan explained.

The proposed budget includes $840,000 set aside for potential unexpected expenses and revenue shortfalls, compared to $806,449 this school year. Reserves are still considered healthy at 6.4 percent of general fund revenue, well within the 3-to-8-percent range recommended by the Oregon Association of School Business Officials.

Retired Principal Kathy Frank JAMES DAY

New boutique

Curated clothing, special events ‘girls club’

By Melissa Wagoner

Annelle Friel “hadn’t worked a day of retail in [her] life” before she opened the boutique clothing store, Fox and Fern on May 1. But that didn’t stop her from dreaming of what it would be like.

“This was something I wanted to do for probably 20 years,” Friel said. “But I was single or on my own… with my kids and I was a mortgage broker.”

Then her kids grew up, she got married and her career no longer suited her the way it once did.

“I loved being a mortgage broker – especially the people part,” Friel said. “But I can’t turn it off… it was exhausting for me.”

So, in 2025 Friel began planning in earnest to open the little boutique she’d had in mind.

“I did my research on the demographics of Silverton to [determine] what price point,” she said. And she began observing the style of clothing the women around her were drawn to. “I check out what they’re wearing and keep that in mind…”

She also spent time creating a retail environment she suspected most women would enjoy, one that is small, calm and well-curated, with a logo that is a tribute to both Silverton High School’s mascot and the foliage of Silver Falls.

“I put my heart and soul into Fox and Fern…” she said. “Because I just crave belonging and I think Fox and Fern gives that to me.”

It’s a feeling she’s hoping will spread, not only as women visit the store, but through a series of after-hour events she

Fox and Fern

216 S. Water St.

Monday, Thursday and Friday

11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Petals and Prosecco

July 16, 6 to 9 p.m.

Tickets: atlasbookshopsilverton.com

and neighboring Atlas Bookshop owner Michelle Collazo are planning to host throughout the year.

“It’s like a girls’ club,” she explained. “You sign up and maybe learn something… I want to encourage women – come out with your friends!”

Beginning with, “Petals and Prosecco” on July 16, 6 to 9 p.m. – which will include a flower arranging tutorial, prosecco, a grazing board and 15 percent off purchases at either Fox and Fern or Atlas Bookshop – tickets available at atlasbookshopsilverton.com

“I can’t tell you how in love I am… I keep thinking, this can’t be happening…”

Friel said of the reception the store has received. “It’s been really fun and I feel really fortunate.”

Which is how she wants her customers to feel as well.

“I feel so grateful for everyone who comes in and doesn’t shop on Amazon…” Friel said. “So, I want people to feel loved when they walk in. I tell my girls, I hope you convey that to the clients.”

Annelle Friel, owner of the new boutique Fox and Fern. MELISSA WAGONER

Triumph & turmoil

By James Day

First, some good news. The Oregon Garden is looking splendid these days. Those who enjoyed the free admission on Earth Day can tell you that the facility’s employees and volunteers had groomed it into terrific shape.

Discerning visitors could see how the Garden has grown and developed since opening in 2001, noting the way that certain planted areas had matured.

More good news. The water piece continues to yield dividends for both the Garden and the City of Silverton. One of the foundational aspects of the Garden was the arrangement with the city that called for treated wastewater to be filtered through ponds and wetlands at the Garden and used to irrigate.

“From the city’s perspective, the use of treated effluent water for irrigation has helped reduce treated effluent discharges and temperature impacts to Silver Creek while supporting environmental compliance goals,” said City Manager Cory Misley. “At the same time, it has provided a reliable irrigation source for the Garden, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.”

The water collaboration has reaped awards, too. In 2018, Silverton’s water quality division was honored by the WateReuse Association in recognition of its work advancing water reuse and alternative water supply solutions at the Garden.

Misley added that the city-to-Garden flows reach up to approximately one million gallons per day during peak demand periods, although he added that it is difficult to measure the cost savings.

“Similar outcomes may have been achievable through other methods, such as expanded wetland use, but the partnership with The Oregon Garden created a mutually beneficial solution for both organizations,” Misley said.

Rough spots

Solutions to other problems between the city and the Garden appear more elusive. City officials and Garden representatives have clashed over the city’s plan to construct a trail around Pettit Lake, which is part of the Garden’s 130 acres –although the city owns the property.

The Pettit discussions grew so heated at one point that an Oct. 9, 2025 joint meeting of city officials and the Garden board resulted in “threatening, aggressive and entirely unprofessional behavior” by Misley, according to a June letter distributed by former Garden Foundation Board Chair Mark Gummin, who added that Misley was asked to produce a letter of apology for the conduct.

Misley said that “differing perspectives were expressed during the discussion” but says he was not asked for an apology.

“Following the meeting, I voluntarily sent an email acknowledging that my tone may have been perceived differently than intended and apologizing to anyone who felt offended by it,” Misley said.

“Like many long-standing partners, the city and The Oregon Garden Foundation may not always agree on every

Unfulfilled hopes, differing visions, hamper growth

issue. However, we remain committed to maintaining a constructive working relationship and focusing on solutions that best serve the community.”

Gummin is no longer on the Foundation board. He was ousted on a 4-2 vote in which three of the votes favoring his departure came from current Silverton Councilors April Newton, Eric Hammond and Kyle Palmer (the board consists of a mixture of city appointees and Garden appointees).

Gummin’s June letter, which was addressed to the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, with copies sent to the Marion County Board of Commissioners, the Oregon Secretary of State, the Oregon Department of Justice’s Charitable Division and the office of Governor Tina Kotek, also says that the presence of the three councilors “created substantial institutional conflicts of interest” and constitute “a hostile takeover” by the city.

Misley said that the city consulted with its attorney before moving forward on the appointments.

“Counsel advised that the appointments do not create a conflict of interest under Oregon law because city-appointed Oregon Garden Foundation board members do not have a personal financial interest solely by virtue of their appointment by the city,” Misley said.

Gummin’s letter also says that “the OGF holds a documented financial interest in the Pettit property, including a $98,000 contribution made by the Foundation toward its purchase in 2003.”

Misley counters that “the $98,000 referenced was applied to debt associated with the Oregon Garden Foundation and was not part of the purchase of the Pettit property.”

The debt situation

The Oregon Garden Foundation still owes the city $575,000. It is the largest piece of debt outstanding since the Garden came out of receivership in 2008. Since that time the Garden has worked to clear $7 million in “higherprioritized” debt, with $6 million of that total forgiven by Marion County. Under the terms of the receivership plan, the obligation to the city is to be retired last.

“The foundation and the city are engaging in active discussion around forgiveness of the debt owed.” said Delen Kitchen, Executive Director of the Oregon Garden Foundation. “City leadership has reiterated their support of the Garden and desire to see it thrive, and recognize that the forgiveness of this specific debt will mean the completion of all repayment as outlined in the distribution plan, and finally allow us to close that chapter of our story.”

Misley confirmed that “preliminary conversations have occurred about a potential debt forgiveness but nothing has materialized.”

However, he also noted that the city’s expectation was that the outstanding balance “would be substantially repaid by September 2026” as a result of an agreement that allows the Garden to receive city transient lodging tax funds.

Clearly, the debt is not going away by the end of September.

And looking ahead to the Garden’s future it’s hard to envision much in terms of expansion, upgrades or big projects unfolding without a stronger financial picture.

“The story of The Oregon Garden is one of ups and downs,” Kitchen said, “from the initial enthusiasm for its grand opening, to the heartbreak of receivership just five years later, through a long period of oversight by Moonstone Garden Management and the shared difficulties of a global pandemic. Since resuming daily operation of the Garden in late 2020, the Oregon Garden Foundation has prioritized stability and sustainable growth.

“What that means is that we continue to focus the majority of our resources on the maintenance and improvement of our existing collections and infrastructure. Having said that, we do still find time for projects that are mission aligned and within our means to accomplish. Recent examples include the restoration of our native white oak savanna as well as the installation of a new solar array funded by PGE ratepayers. Future projects include the second phase of the oak savanna restoration and the construction of a new pergola over our visitor center back patio.”

The tourism piece

The original master plan for the Garden indicated that  400,000 visitors per year would be necessary to support the operation. The facility surpassed 200,000 in year one, but since the pandemic, annual attendance has been in the 50,000 range. That’s a decent chunk of participation, particularly given the way the Oregon “weather window” can limit things, but a Garden that is bringing in 100,000 or 200,000 visitors per year would represent a huge boost to the Silverton economy. For context, Silver Falls State Park attracts more than 1.5 million visitors a year, while the famed Butchart Gardens in British Columbia, attract one million people per year.

Garden Foundation board member Andy Ulven said he thinks more promotion of the Garden as a destination for tourists would help the Garden, Silverton businesses and the community at large.

Stacy Palmer, executive director of the Silverton Chamber of Commerce, agrees.

“The Oregon Garden is one of Silverton’s cornerstone attractions and plays a significant role in drawing visitors to our community,” Palmer said.

“It contributes meaningfully to our local tourism economy by bringing in out-of-area guests who support lodging, dining, retail, and other small businesses. It also helps position Silverton as a destination rather than a pass-through, which is incredibly valuable for a community of our size. At the same time, I believe there is still considerable untapped potential. Given the uniqueness of the asset and its scale, there are opportunities to expand its reach and increase its overall economic impact even further.”

Editor’s note: The Oregon Garden stories in this issue conclude Our Town’s past, present and future series on the Garden’s 25th anniversary.

By Melissa Wagoner

There are over 50 demonstration gardens scattered across the state of Oregon (according to the OSU Extension Service) with most either specializing in one specific aspect of gardening or one type of plant. But The Oregon Garden, which houses 29 separate gardens on one 130-acre parcel, offers a vastly different experience.

“We were founded by the Oregon Association of Nurseries to be a storefront almost,” Oregon Garden Executive Director Delen Kitchen said. “That was sort of the thought behind the individual gardens – that everyone can find something that speaks to them.”

And visitors do, gravitating most often to the Conifer Garden and the Children’s Garden –where kids can climb aboard the pirate ship, crawl through the tunnel or dig in the sand.

The gardens within The Oregon Garden

“Families love it and kids love it,” Kitchen said, adding that Boogie Woogie Wednesdays – held in partnership with the Silver Falls Library on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. – is one of the Garden’s most popular events.

“Community is huge for us…” Kitchen said, when asked about no-cost opportunities like this one and the Cultural Pass (also available through the Silver Falls Library) The Oregon Garden extends to the public.

“Because we are in Silverton, we have a special connection [with the community] you don’t have in a large metropolitan area,” Kitchen said. “And we want to give back. That’s important to us.”

Also, these programs allow visitors of all ages and demographics to visit, furthering The Oregon Garden’s mission to “welcome

and inspire all visitors with an appreciation for the extraordinary ecology of the Pacific Northwest, and to provide a meaningful educational experience for gardeners of all skill levels and ages.”

“You can come back just one week later and it’s completely different…” she pointed out. And, because the area is so vast, it’s hard to see everything in one day. “Even I come across things that are new.” A feat since she has worked at the Garden for 11 years.

But it’s that element of surprise that she thinks makes The Oregon Garden unique.

“Because, while there are lots of other gardens that are themed, you can find all of that here, and the kitchen sink.” Only this one is filled with plants.

The 29 Gardens

Visit Monday through Friday

from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. this summer to explore them all.

Fuchsia Display Garden

Conifer Garden

Trial Gardens

Axis Garden

Children’s Garden

Lewis and Clark Garden

Native Garden

Best of the West Garden

Northwest Garden

Drought Tolerant Garden

Fire Safety House

Pet-Friendly Garden

Rose Garden

Honor Garden

Sensory Garden

Home Demonstration Gardens

Medicinal Garden

Secret Garden

Iris Walk

Oak Grove

Rediscovery Forest

Peace Garden

Willamette Way

Cafe Garden

Cottage Garden

Silverton Market Garden

Pollinator Garden

Bosque Garden

A-Mazing Water Garden

For more information about the Garden visit  oregongarden.org.

Joe & Dana Giegerich

Thinking of

$475,000 508 2nd St., Silverton. Craftsman-style home on a large .22acre lot. 3 bd, 2 ba, 1935 sqft. Upgraded kitchen, bathrooms. Tile & vintage wood floors, forced air gas, covered porch, green house, vinyl & wood fencing. Well maintained property. MLS# 840718

$385,000 20446 Abiqua Rd., Scotts Mills. Cottage home on the Creek, 0.71 acre lot. 2 bd, 1 ba, 948 sqft. Newer cabinets, tile floor. Fishing hole nearby. MLS# 837412

$699,000 700 S. Water St., Silverton. ** Investors ** Historic Silverton 4-plex, large shop. Shows pride of ownership, close to park, library and pool. Great investment opportunity! MLS# 839387

$569,000 Upgraded 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1552 sqft home on large 0.830 level lot. Creek flowing through property. 20450 Abiqua Rd. NE, Scotts Mills. MLS# 836419

Under Contract 4 LOTS $300,000 TOTAL Rosemary Way lots: 601, 605 & 611 MLS#810425; 615 MLS#810404 (619 & 623 are SOLD). Builder, developer! Monitor Road Estates. Lots will require wetland remediation. Buyer must have a development plan.

$255,000 Creek frontage on 3.99 acres. Bareland. Ideal for recreational use. Swimming hole. Seller will carry a contract. Off of Crooked Finger Rd., Scotts Mills. MLS#822303

$929,000 10.41 acres in the Silverton Hills on Powers Creek. Custom home with 5 bd, 3 ba, 3218 sq. ft. High ceilings, large kitchen. 4 farm bldgs. Mature timber. 3999 Timber Trail Rd., Silverton. MLS#818488

•

By Melissa Wagoner

For the past 25 years visitors to The Oregon Garden have come away with memories that will last a lifetime. Some are quiet – a day spent walking the paths, admiring the flowers, playing with children, capturing snakes. Some are life-altering – weddings, a solar eclipse, seeing a favorite band. Big or small, each has made an imprint. Which is why, when Our Town asked, readers were eager to share their memories of that incredibly special place.

“When my son was a toddler we spent hours in the Children’s Garden,” Cindy Zapata recalled. “He loved the model train and the hobbit tunnel especially, and would run around and around in circles. I would hide behind the bamboo and jump out at him when he would pass sending him into a squeal of laughter. Those were good times.”

“My mom had a stroke in 2010, and she moved here in 2012,” Lisa Sinclair recalled. “We would go walk the Garden with her walker to strengthen her legs. The Gardens provided beautiful scenery and many benches to stop and rest at.”

“I moved away from Silverton around the time the Garden opened,” Poppy Shell said. “When I’d come back to visit, I enjoyed the concerts that were held on a big grassy field… People enjoyed those concerts with national touring bands. Glad to be back living close…”

“We just spent our six-year anniversary out there,” Kristin Kreitzer said. “Had an amazing time… The Garden is beautiful! Was our first time out there…couldn’t leave without a few plants!”

“I loved the concerts on the green in the summertime,” Jane Jones said.

“August 21, 2017, watching the ‘Great American Eclipse with my wife Annie…” Dan Schacher remembered. “I will always remember that day.”

“Growing up my grandma and I always went for the third of July,” Shane Smith remembered. “We would walk the gardens for hours before the fireworks. Only thing we miss is when Roth’s did the chicken dinner, and the shortcake for dessert!”

“My kids have always loved when spring warmth brought out the garter snakes,” Christine Eubanks said. “They’d catch,

Christy and Lucas Rue on their wedding day at The Oregon Garden. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Four-year-old Kyah and her mom, Della Gerkman. SUBMITTED PHOTO

admire, and release. One year [they] were gathering a bunch of snakes along the gates of the resort and some workers approached us. I was worried we were about to get a scolding, but they gave the kids buckets and asked if they’d collect the snakes to be relocated because they were scaring the guests! My kids were thrilled to help, and so were the workers!”

“I got married at The Oregon Garden (March 18, 2017) and it was pouring rain that morning but cleared up and was a cool beautiful evening with a gorgeous sunset,” Christy Rue said.

“Unforgettable!”

“I have a special memory of my youngest [daughter] and I,” Della Gerkman said. “My husband and my oldest were home sick and I asked her if she wanted to go see pretty flowers. She instantly agreed and we have one of the best times together.”

most mornings with my newborn daughter (often times sleep deprived with a coffee in my hand),” Amber Tovey remembered. “It will always hold a special place in my heart because of those walks. The views of the flowers were nothing short of amazing, but nothing beat my view of her smiley face or often times, her little toes sticking out of my stroller while she napped!”

“[M]any memories of seeing [my brother, Herb Barnes, clearing what used to be a horse ranch] daily as we drove by…” Sibyl Ballard recalled. “Robert Pettit grew up there and… Herb…helped clear the land before it was the Garden. I know we got lots of fencing that used to be around the houses that were up in the tree line.”

“During my maternity leave, I walked there

“Bricks for my husband, Jim, and our son, Michael, are inserted on the walkway…” Eleanor Benner said. “Jim died almost three years ago… we ordered the brick to be placed next to Michael’s.”

Cosette and Eli Eubanks catching (and releasing) garter snakes at the Garden. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Amber Tovey spent her maternity leave exploring the Garden with her newborn daughter. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Eleanor Benner purchased memorial bricks for her husband, Jim, and her son, Michael, that now pave the walkway of The Oregon Garden. SUBMITTED PHOTO

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 Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. Silverton Council Chambers, 410 N Water St. Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St.

Weekly Events

Monday

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

SACA Food Pantry, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., SACA, 1030 N First St., Silverton. Also 46 p.m. Tuesday, 9 a.m. - noon Thursday. silvertonareacommunityaid.org

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

Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Congregate dining. Delivery Monday-Friday. $3 suggested donation. Age 60+. Reserve three days in advance. Congregate dining repeats Tuesday and Thursday. Connie, 503-873-6906

Silverton Recovery AA, noon - 1 p.m., SACA, 1030 N First St., Suite B, Silverton. Seven days a week.

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

Tuesday

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

Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 E Charles St. Congregate dining, delivery available Tuesday, Thursday. Age 60+. $3 donation. Ginger, 503-845-9464 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 Thursday. silvertonmainstay.org

Mission Benedict Food Pantry, 1 - 4 p.m., 870 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Fresh produce, protein options, dry goods. Also 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wednesday, 1 - 3 p.m. Thursday, Friday. 503-385-3231

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

Wednesday

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

Quilters Group, 9:30 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com

Boogie Woogie Wednesdays, 10 - 10:40 a.m., Silver Falls Library. Come dance. Ages 0-4. Free. 503-873-8706

Family Storytime & Indoor Playtime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. 7/15, 7/22, 7/29. Ages 2 - 5 w/adult. Free. 971-370-5040

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. Fresh product, protein options, dry goods. 503-873-7353

Crochet Club, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Learn to crochet. All supplies provided. Free. Repeats 4 - 5:30 p.m. Friday. 503-873-8706

Thursday

All Levels Yoga, 8:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. $10/member. $12/nonmember. Open to public. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org

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

Move and Groove, 10 - 10:40 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Members free. Nonmembers $5. All welcome. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org

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

Baby Birds Storytime, 11 a.m., Silver Falls Library. Stories, music, bubbles. Ages 0-4. Free. Repeats Friday. 503-873-8706

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

Friday

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 ages welcome. Free.

Silverton Sisterhood AKA Chicks Connect, 9 - 10:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Goal-oriented women’s group focused on personal and professional growth. New members welcome. Sue Brown, 925-890-4656, suebrownpremier@ gmail.com

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

Silverton Ukulele Network, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Song circle. Free. All welcome. 503-873-3093

Stand for Democracy, 2 - 4 p.m., Main Street, Silverton. Advocate to protect and strengthen American democracy and call attention to issues that threaten it. Sidewalk just above Silverton Town Square Park. Open to all. Sings welcome. robertjsisk@ yahoo.com, 503-873-5307

Saturday

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

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

Sunshine Fitness, 10 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Light exercising with follow-along videos. Signed waiver required. Adults. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton Country Historical Museum, 1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Repeats Sunday. Open to public. 503-873-7070

Art of Mindfulness Meditation, 2 - 3:30 p.m. Silverton Arts Center. No experience needed. Dave Steinberg, 971-218-6641

Class Reunions

Cascade High Class of 1963 – 4 p.m., July 25, Hickory Spoon, 8274 Golf Club Road, Aumsville. 503-428-6422, roseanngarrett1@gmail.com

St. Boniface High All-School – 1 - 4 p.m., Aug. 9, Early Settlers Park, 245 NW Johnson St., Sublimity. janschott621@ hotmail.com

Regis High Class of 1996 – 5 p.m., Aug. 22, Snow Peak Brewing, 280 E Water St., Stayton. Food truck on-site for dinner. No-host. ‘90s music. Minors welcome. Wednesday, July 1

Abbey Art Exhibit

9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Mt. Angel Abbey, 1 Abbey Dr., St. Benedict. Classical Iconography Institutes’s new exhibition, “Agios: A Communion of Saints.” Explore the lives of historical and sacred figures through original icons created by modern-day iconographers practicing a centuries-old Byzantine tradition. Parking and admission are free. Thru Aug. 2. mountangelabbey.org

Garden Community Day

10 a.m. - 6 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Caesar the No-Drama Llama, guided walking tours. Silverton residents free. All other receive $1 off admission for each non-perishable food item donated. oregongarden.org

Storytime in the Garden

10:30 - 11 a.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Meet by pirate ship in children’s area. Free admission using your CCRLS library card. mtangelpubliclibrary.com

Friends of Silver Falls Library

4 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Friends of Silver Falls Board meeting. Open to public. 503-873-8796

The 4 Seasons

6:30 - 8 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Explore color and composition using watercolor with Ann Altman. Free. Sign-up at the Reference desk or call 503-873-8796.

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 2

Garden Family Day

9 a.m. - 6 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Aerials with Salem Circus, storytime, Una the Mermaid, Caesar the No-Drama Llama, food trucks, guided walking tours, tethered hot air balloon rides (fee). Family Day included with general admission. oregongarden.org

Silverton Kiwanis Club

Noon, Main St. Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. New members welcome. Repeats July 16. silvertonkiwanis.org

Beading Bonanza

1 & 6:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Make bracelets, necklaces and all creatures with the library’s bead collection. Teens and adults. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton Lions Club

7 p.m., Silverton Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St. New members welcome. July 16. Dagmar, 971-720-3811

Friday, July 3

July 3rd Celebration

4 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Live music, food and familyfriendly activities followed by a fireworks display at 10 p.m. Adults $16. Seniors 60+ $14. Teens 12-17 $12. Youth 5-11 $9. Children under 5 and Garden members free. Save $2 on all tickets purchased in advance at oregongarden.org.

LEGO Challenge

3 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. All ages. Make a cookout-themed creation for display. All ages. 971-370-5040

Flywheels First Friday

4 - 8 p.m., downtown Silverton. Hot rods, street rods, trucks and customs. silvertonflywheels@gmail.com or visit “Silverton Flywheels Car Club” on Facebook.

Silverton First Friday

5 - 9 p.m., downtown Silverton. Car show, outdoor dining, shopping, vendors, live music. silvertonchamber.org

Lunaria Opening Reception

6 - 8 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Meet the artists of July exhibits. Main Floor Gallery features “Art in the Garden,” art created by Lunaria Gallery members in The Oregon Garden. Loft Gallery features “Cattywampus,” artwork by Judith Frohreich. Free. Refreshments served. 503-873-7734, lunariagallery.com

Saturday, July 4

Independence Day

United States of America’s 250th Anniversary

Annual Chicken Barbecue

9 a.m. - 2 p.m., St. James Catholic Church, 301 Frances St., Molalla. Chicken dinner $16. ½ chicken dinner to go $9 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Cash, credit or checks OK. 503-260-6470 Mt. Angel Fourth of July 11 a.m., Mt. Angel. Parade starts at 11 a.m. Celebration at 6:30 p.m. at Kennedy High, 890 E Marquam St., featuring the Marion County Citizens Band and Gigglebritches. Food available for purchase from Knights of Columbus and Burger Time. Fireworks at dusk. mtangelchamber.com

Sunday, July 5

Beacons, Stories & Storms

11 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Discover dramatic lighthouse stories, maritime history, legendary storms and the fascinating lives of lighthouse keepers and their families. Presented by Susan Hunt. Free. Open to public. RSVP to 503-873-3093.

Live Music @ Gordon House

5 p.m., Gordon House, 869 W Main St., Silverton. Krzysztof Penderecki “Quartet for Clarinet & String Trio,” Kaija Saariaho “Cloud Trio,” and W.A. Mozart “Quartet No. 21 in D major,” performances. Tickets $45, includes refreshments. Presented by chatter PDX. Tickets at chatterpdx.org.

Monday, July 6

Music Mondays

6:30 - 8 p.m., Old Mill Park, 412 S Water St., Silverton. Free concerts in the park presented by Silverton Friends of Music. Today: DTW Lite featuring Drew Medak. 7/13: Water Street Project. 7/20: Marion County Citizens Band. 7/27: Syco Billy’s String Band and The Crying Omas. 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 7

Emergency Preparedness

11 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Free community presentation with Wes McCune on how to prepare for extreme heat and power outages. Open to public. RSVPs appreciated by calling 503-873-3093

Harvesting Imagination

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Decorate and design a journal. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040

Wednesday, July 8

Fire Department Storytime

10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Join Mrs. Sara for a field trip to the firehouse and a story. Sign ups: 971-370-5040

Thursday, July 9

Free Estate Planning Help

9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Make a private appointment with Austin Willhoft for a 30-minute free estate planning consultation. Austin, 503-213-7015, austin@ willhoftaw.com

Monday, July 13

Mt. Angel School District

6:30 p.m., St. Mary’s Public School, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. Agenda available. Open to public. masd91.org

Silver Falls School District

Marion County Fair

Noon - 10 p.m., 2330 NE 17th St., Salem. Repeats 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. July 10-11, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. July 12. See marioncountyfair.net for tickets pricing and schedule..

Writing Group

6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. A short warm up followed by a fun challenge with a group of fellow writers. Teens and adults. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton Zenith Women’s Club

6:30 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Refreshments and fellowship followed by a meeting at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Becky, 971-600-4713

Friday, July 10

Red Cross Blood Drive

Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton First Baptist Church, 229 Westfield St. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.

The Next Friday

5 - 8 p.m., Mt. Angel. Music, cars, vendors, shopping and more. discovermtangel@gmail.com

Teen Hangout

7:30 p.m., Fisher Park, 110 Spruce Street, Mt. Angel. Water balloon fight. Supplies limited. Bring squirt guns or water balloons. Ages 12-18. Free. 971-370-5040

Movie in the Park

9 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Watch “Hoppers” on the projector screen. Snacks provided or bring your own picnic lunch. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Saturday, July 11

Saint Benedict Festival

Noon - 4 p.m., Mount Angel Abbey, 1 Abbey Dr., Saint Benedict. Festival entry includes a buffet picnic lunch and all activities, including monastic organ recitals, live iconography demonstration, music, lawn games and education exhibits. Benedictine Brewery beer and local wines for purchase. $65/ages 13 and older. $20/ages 2-12. Tickets at mountangelabbey.org.

Sunday, July 12

Scotts Mills Historical Museum

Noon - 4 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave., Scotts Mills. Open for public browsing. Free. Or by appointment: Joe Plas, 503871-9803; ksplonski@aol.com

7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503873-5303, silverfallsschools.org

Tuesday, July 14

Ancestry Detectives

10 a.m., Silver Falls Library. Open work session. Bring your questions and learn alongside a genealogist mentor. Dropins welcome. To book a specific time slot, text Linda Brown at 503-551-9028 with name, topic and preferred time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Bring your own computer. ancestrydetectives.org

Paradise of Samoa

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Celebrate Polynesian culture through dance and music with Paradise of Samoa. Free. All ages. 971-370-5040

Silverton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. Agenda available. silverton.us.or

Book Talk Book Club

7 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. Literary fiction and narrative nonfiction book club. July pick: Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. Free. Adults. atlasbookshopsilverton.com

Wednesday, July 15

CPR/First Aid Certification

10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Learn CPR, how to use an AED and first aid. $40/members. $50/non-members. Payment required to hold your space. Register at the center or by calling 503-873-3093.

Kids Cooking Lab

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Make your own veggie wraps for a healthy summer snack. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040

Silverton City Council

7 p.m., Council Chambers. Work session followed by regular meeting. Open to public. 503-873-5321, silverton.or.us

Thursday, July 16

Women’s Connection Luncheon Noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second St., Silverton. Tanya Little & Linda Steffen present a Living History program celebrating the nation’s birthday. Speaker Shirley Mozena shares secrets of love lost and found. Lunch $12. RSVP to Stacey at 503-680-3786.

Trivia Night

7 p.m., Pub 201 East, 210 E Charles St., Mt. Angel. Play solo or form a team of up to five adults. Prizes. 971-370-5040

Paradise of Samoa

7 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Celebrate Polynesian culture through dance and music with Paradise of Samoa. All ages. Free. 503-873-5173

Mt. Angel Planning Commission

7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-845-9291

Friday, July 17

Weissenfels Blacksmith Foundation

11 a.m., Weissenfels Blacksmith Shop, 110 Sheridan St., Mt. Angel. Annual meeting of Weissenfels Blacksmith Shop Foundation. Open to public. Foundation seeking a resident of Mt. Angel to fill a vacant, threeyear position on the board. If interested, contact Nancy Lehto at 503-999-6315. Red Cross Blood Drive

Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.

Chess Club

3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create a hands-on masterpiece for Father’s Day. All materials provided. Free. All Ages. 971-370-5040

Teen Cooking Club

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Make your own veggie wraps for a healthy summer snack. Ages 12-18. Free. 971-370-5040

Summer Block Party

5:30 - 10 p.m., Paradis Vineyards, 17627 NE Abiqua Road, Silverton. Familyfriendly evening of live music, food, wine and kid-friendly slushes. Bring lawn chairs. $20/adults, includes a glass of wine or wine slush. Kids are free. Tickets at paradisewine.com.

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 18

Canterbury Renaissance Faire

10 a.m. - 6 p.m., 6569 Valley View Road, Silverton. Set in the Elizabethan Era, see history move right before your eyes. Jousting, dancing, shopping and more. Repeats July 19, 25-26. Visit canterburyfaire.com for ticket pricing and schedule.

Community Discussion

3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. The closing of the Declaration of Independence contains a quiet promise, “We mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” What would it mean to “mutually pledge” ourselves to one another today? Is it even possible? Teens and adults. Free. 971-370-5040

More Datebook on page 15

Paid Advertisement

Happy 250th Fourth of July! By Gregg Harris

On July 4, in 1776, 250 years ago this month, the Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, announced their adoption of “The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America,” known to us as The Declaration of Independence. document announcing to the world the reasons why the thirteen English colonies were declaring their political independence from the Crown of Great Britain.

As we celebrate the birth of our nation, there are some among us who seek to distort the facts concerning those events, attempting to erase the Christian worldview our Founding Fathers held. Though the historical record is clear, even in the very documents themselves, many on the liberal side of the political spectrum are desperate to conceal the truth out of fear that our nation’s birthday might spark a revival of interest in Christianity.

soldiers, were well catalogued. These were the liberties the colonists were demanding, not a license to do what is foolish and evil—to murder unborn children, to publish pornographic materials, or to legalize all kinds of sexual deviance. And ironically, they were not demanding the freedom to tax their own citizens at unimaginable rates in order to redistribute their hard-earned wealth to others against their will.

proved to be too weak to provide the central government needed, and so, the Constitution of the United States of America was adopted four years later in 1787. This laid the foundation for the “well ordered liberty” we enjoy to this day.

Is It “Inadequate?”

They Longed for “Liberty”

The Continental Congress had been debating independence for weeks and the main issues were both political and religious. For centuries the Church of England had been inflicting sometimes violent persecution against all of the dissenting Christian denominations in England. Now that torment threatened to follow them across the ocean. In the colonists’ minds, “freedom” meant liberty for dissenting Christians to worship the God of the Bible as they believed was pleasing to Him. There was no thought at that time of offering absolute religious liberty to all the world’s religions, because so many of those religions were in open opposition to Christianity and Judaism.

When we read the text of The Declaration it is clear that the authors believed in and honored the God of the Bible. The Founders wished “to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them.” And again, “We hold these truths to be selfevident, 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.” And finally, “We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States.”

No other faiths but Christianity and Judaism can fill this order. The worldview of our Founding Fathers, whether they were Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Unitarian, or Deist, were appealing to the One True God revealed in the Bible.

But Wait, There’s More!

The demand for “No taxation without representation!” was a demand to require “the consent of the governed” in all areas of civil life, and especially in taxes. The charge against the Crown was Tyranny. The Declaration lists the many instances in which the King and his agents oppressed the rights of the colonists. The issues of taxation, of disregard for the laws enacted by colonial governments, and the abuse of the colonists by British

When Patrick Henry said, “Give me liberty, or give me death!” he was ready to die for his freedom. But what later became enshrined as Freedom of the Freedom of Speech were never intended to protect and promote moral insanity. Our Founding Fathers would be appalled to see what we have allowed to happen to the nation they founded for us.

This Called for Courage

Benjamin Franklin famously quipped as he signed his own name to The Declaration of Independence, “We must indeed all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.” It was no joke. King George would show no mercy to these colonial rebels. Real dangers were ahead.

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

— John Adams, 1798

But on July 2, 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 4 that Congress adopted the final wording of Thomas Jefferson’s finest work But it was only just the beginning.

A War & a Constitution

The War for American Independence ran on for eight long years, ending in 1783. We won. The Articles of Confederation

Years later, 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 any other.” Adams was writing amid growing concern over our nation’s moral decline. Liberty was morphing into a license to sin. But the “religion” Adams had in mind was not some bland civil religion. He meant an authentic faith in the God revealed in the Bible. Not just in The Ten Commandments, but the Gospel as well. Without that robust kind of faith, liberty inevitably collapses into moral chaos. And he was right. Just look around.

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 three 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 “born again” with the power needed to lead a godly life. If we, as a nation, no longer love and fear God enough to restrain our own sinful behavior, our liberty will be lost as tyrants arise to impose order. Think about that on this 250th celebration of the Fourth of July. Got questions? Call 971-370-0967.

Attention Christian Men! Join us every week for our Noble Men’s Prayer Breakfast at Noble Inn 409 S. Water St., Silverton, OR 97381 Thurs. mornings from 7 to 8:30 AM For info go to NobleMenOfOregon.org Join us as we seek to have an impact on our community for Christ.

The views expressed by this advertiser do not necessarily represent the views of Our Town or its staff.

Gregg Harris, Teaching Pastor at GraciousCross.org

Monday, July 20

Vigil for Peace

2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Towne Square Park, Silverton. Silverton People for Peace gather to advocate for peace, social justice issues on all levels of society including a focus on issues of current concern. Open to all. 503-873-5307

Tuesday, July 21

Red Yarn Puppets

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Join Andy Furgeson as he weaves folk rock and puppetry into high energy shows for all ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Thursday, July 23

Decoupage

1 & 6:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Help decorate a tabletop for the library or bring your own object to cover in pictures and Mod Podge. All materials provided. Adults and teens. Free. 971-370-5040

Angel Ocasio Performs

7 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Comedy, music, juggling and music with Angel Ocasio. Free. All ages. 503-873-5173

Romantics Book Club

7 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. A romance and romantasy book club. July pick: Bride by Ali Hazelwood. Free. Adults only. atlasbookshopsilverton.com

Friday, July 24

Tabletop Gaming Club

3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Join a team of heroes to explore the world of magic and mystery using D&D. Pre-made characters available. If you prefer to make a character, use 2024 rules for 3rd level with standard array. No experience required. Free. Teens and adults. 971-370-5040

Saturday, July 25

Headmaster’s Classic

8 a.m., Evergreen Golf Course, 11694 NE West Church Road, Mt. Angel. 18-hold, four-person scramble fundraiser for Chesterton Academy of the Willamette Valley. $100/golfer. Cost includes breakfast, happy hour and appetizers, lunch and awards. Register at chesteronwv.com.

Brent Strohmeyer Car Show

9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Sunrise Park, 542 NE Berry, Sublimity. $15 pre-registration by July 20. $20 day of show. Spectators free. Russ, 503-930-8976, stroscarevents.com

Saalfeld House Open

11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saalfeld House and Museum, 195 E College St., Mt. Angel. Saalfeld House is one of Mt. Angel’s oldest houses and the home of Mt. Angel Historical Society. Open to public. Free. 503-845-9202

Sunday, July 26

Sunset Sunday

6 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Live music, local flavors and private access to The Garden after hours. $20/members. $25 non-members. Tickets, oregongarden. org, includes one free drink ticket.

Tuesday, July 28

DIY Zines

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Make a mini booklet about your favorite topic. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

PFLAG Silverton

7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Everyone welcome. Under 18 must have parent/guardian. Christy, 541-786-1613, silvertonpflag@ gmail.com

Wednesday, July 29

TAB/Book Club

4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch. Afterward, meet for Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meeting. Pizza. Free. Ages 12-18. 971-370-5040

Abbey Bach Festival

6 pm., Mount Angel Abbey, 1 Abbey Dr., Saint Benedict. Two performances and a picnic buffet with beverages each evening. Runs through Aug. 1. For ticket options and performer info., visit mountangelabbey.org.

Page Turners Book Club

7 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. Young adult fiction club for ages 14-19. July pick: The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh. Free. atlasbookshopsilverton.com

Thursday, July 30

Fascination with Flight

11 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Presentation explores humanity’s fascination with flight, from early attempts to personal flight experiences to the evolution of powered flight, modern aviation and space travel. Presented by Sue Hunt. Open to public. 503-873-3093

Creature Teacher

4 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn about reptiles and amphibians with a local expert. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040

Unit Souzou Performs

7 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Taiko and Japanese folk dance with Unit Souzou. Free. All ages. 503-873-5173

Friday, July 31

Family Movie Night

4:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Watch Lyle Lyle Crocodile with popcorn. All ages. Free 971-370-5040

Quality Dental Care in a Friendly Environment

Services

New patients welcome

Matthew B. Chase, D.M.D. Nathan C. Braxmeyer, D.M.D. 303 N. First • Silverton 503-873-8614

Passages

Silverton statesman Ken Hector leaves community an enduring legacy

By James Day

He was the face of Silverton. He was everywhere. He did everything. And he did it with warmth and professionalism.

Ken Hector, who had a 16-year run as mayor of Silverton and served the community in almost uncountable ways, died June 12 after a final battle with cancer.

“I could eulogize the guy forever,” said Kyle Palmer, who was a councilor when Hector was mayor and mayor when Hector was a councilor. “I always wondered if I would ever know as much about Silverton as he did. And there’s just no way that I could. He was an institution and an inspiration in Silverton.”

Silverton Mayor Jason Freilinger, who was a councilor when Hector’s council career ended, called Hector “the finest person I have ever known. He was what I envisioned a mayor would be. He did so much for the city, Chemeketa, the ESD (Willamette Education Service District), Rotary. So much of who we are is because

of Ken Hector.”

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Aug. 21 at The Oregon Garden, a place he loved and labored on.

He was there in 1997 when ground was broken on a Silverton hillside. He was there when the city and the

Garden worked out a deal to use treated wastewater to irrigate the Garden’s gardens. And after his mayoral and council terms he served nearly five years on the Garden Foundation board. Thenmayor Palmer appointed him.

“Ken has played such an important role not only in the Garden’s history but the support and success of so many organizations and events in and around Silverton,” said Delen Kitchen, Oregon Garden Executive Director. “His passing is a loss to the community, but he leaves behind an amazing legacy of civil service, volunteerism and philanthropy.”

Hector attended junior college before graduating from the University of Portland in 1971. He always championed the value of community colleges, serving 12 years on the Chemeketa Community College board. He played a key role in the passage of its facilities bond in May of 2025. Hector received the 2025 M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award presented by the Association of Community College Trustees.  The award is the highest national honor the community college association bestows.

“Ken Hector epitomizes what it means to be a public servant and a community college champion,” Chemeketa President Jessica Howard said at the time.  “His leadership on our board, his commitment to students, and his passionate work to expand educational opportunity in Oregon and beyond have left a lasting impact.”

Hector was named Silverton’s First Citizen in 2003. In 2024 he and Darby, his wife of 48 years, shared the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award for their extraordinary and impactful public service.

For Ken, that service included scooping up poop behind the Silverton Pet Parade, recalled state Rep. Rick Lewis, a former Silverton police chief, city manager and mayor.

“I first met Ken in 1998 when I was interviewed for the police chief position and he was serving as mayor,” Lewis said. “We’ve been friends ever since and our paths crossed regularly, through his tenure as mayor, his work on the Chemeketa board, his involvement for years with The Oregon Garden, working together poop scooping at Homer Days and on and on. I know of no one who has had a greater

KENNETH JAMES HECTOR

May 21, 1946 - June 12, 2026

Born: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Residence: Silverton, Oregon

Education: Graduated from the University of Portland, 1971

Career: Workers’ compensation, risk management and governmental affairs

Public/community service: Mayor of Silverton, Silverton City Councilor, Oregon Garden Foundation board member, Chemeketa Community College trustee, Willamette Education Service District board member, Silverton Rotary, Silverton Elks

Family: wife, Darby; sons, Michael, Josh and John; daughter, Sarah; granddaughters, Kailey, Riley and Samatha; great-grandson Leo; three nieces and nephews

Celebration of Life: 3 p.m., Friday, Aug. 21 at The Oregon Garden J. Frank Schmidt Jr. Pavilion 879 W. Main St., Silverton

Donations: In lieu of flowers the family suggests a memorial donation to Sheltering Silverton

love for the community or had a bigger heart for community service.  Ken will be deeply missed.”

Hector’s political style was marked by a personal approach and a professional demeanor.

“Ken was a gentleman politician,” said Silverton Realtor Mason Branstetter. “He always addressed the issue being discussed in a nonconfrontational manner.”

Community activist and businessman Chuck White remembered Ken as “a good listener (with) a great sense of humor, and he always made you feel like he cared deeply about the projects you worked on together. Ken always looked for ways to collaborate when serving as mayor and city councilor, with a vision of always keeping Silverton a special place to live.” Mission accomplished.

Former Silverton Mayor Ken Hector

Ronna Vaughan Dec. 7, 1941 – May 28, 2026

Ronna Mary Vaughan, 84, passed away peacefully at Davenport Place in Silverton, Oregon. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Ronna was born on Peal Harbor Day, Dec. 7, 1941, in Laramie, Wyoming, to Rolland and Mary Rutledge.

Ronna moved to Carson City, Nevada to be with and eventually marry Jerry Vaughan. Ronna and Jerry had two sons, Robert (Bob) Vaughan and William (Bill) Vaughan in 1970 and 1972. They moved from Carson City to Tonasket, Washington, in 1980. They again moved in 1984 to their final home of Silverton, Oregon.

Ronna was the proud grandparent to grandchildren Wade Vaughan and Riley Newton, Cody Vaughan, Emily Vaughan, and Owen Vaughan. She was a wonderful grandmother who loved spending time with her grandchildren

and supporting each of them in all of their endeavors.

In addition to the love she had for her grandchildren, Ronna spent many of her later years quilting and spending time with friends in Silverton. She attended the First Christian Church in Silverton for more than 40 years and served the church as their bookkeeper for many years.

Ronna was preceded in death by her parents, Roland and Mary Rutledge, her husband Jerry Vaughan, and her son Bob Vaughan.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 11, at 1 p.m. in the sanctuary of Silverton First Christian Church. A reception will follow in the multipurpose room.

Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

In Memory Of

Cooper William Chitty Jr. Oct. 13, 1947 - June 4, 2026

Robert Fred Fessler

Aug. 14, 1940 - June 7, 2026

Raymond John Stoecker Mar. 10, 1957 - June 10, 2026

Kenneth James Hector May 21, 1946 - June 12, 2026

Danette Rae Keith May 16, 1971 - June 13, 2026

Ailene Helen Bernt June 3, 1932 - June 16, 2026

Always honoring your request for traditional, eco-friendly or aqua cremation, celebration of life, and services involving earth burial. We also offer pre-planning alternatives to control costs.

Robert Fred Fessler

Aug. 14, 1940 – June 7, 2026

Born Aug. 14, 1940, in Hubbard, Oregon, Robert Fred Fessler passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born to Raymond and Clara Fessler and graduated from Mt. Angel Prep High School. He grew up on the family farm which created his love of farming. After high school, Bob spent time serving in the National Guard.

In 1958, he met his future wife, Martha “Jean” Coleman from St. Paul, Oregon. They married on Oct. 28, 1961, and together, they raised five children. Shortly after their marriage, Bob and Jean started Fessler Farms raising hazelnuts, cane berries and mink. In 1968, they started Woodburn Nursery growing azaleas and later adding outdoor nursery stock. Bob was involved in the day-to-day operations which showed in his love for farming and plants. He was always looking for the next best innovation in the horticultural industry. He was never shy about getting his hands dirty and was quick to lend a helping hand. He had a very strong work ethic which showed in his businesses. He was very proud of the fact that his family businesses have been carried on to not only to the second generation, but the third generation as well.

Bob had a great sense of humor and always seemed to make others laugh. Bob and Jean enjoyed traveling many parts of the world with friends and family. Many lifetime friendships were made with employees, customers and fellow nurserymen and farmers within the industries.

Faith was very important in Bob’s life and passing this on to his children and grandchildren was a priority for him. Bob was very humble and kind, always giving and expecting nothing in return. He also believed in giving back to the communities and organizations that have supported him. He volunteered for many years and was active in his church, St. Mary Catholic Church. He was also a member of Oregon Association of Nurseries. Many years were spent volunteering for the Oktoberfest. He also served on the following boards: Mt. Angel School, St. Mary’s Church, Mt. Angel Community Foundation and NORPAC. Together, Bob and Jean earned many awards and recognition in their local communities: Mt. Angel 1st Citizen Award, Mt. Angel Business of the Year Award, Woodburn Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Farmer, Silver Spirit Award (Legacy Silverton Hospital), and were inducted into the OAN Hall of Fame in 2019.

Bob loved farming, but he also loved fishing, crabbing, clam digging and hunting. He was also very active in his children’s lives. Bob and Jean took their children on many camping/ fishing trips. He attended many of their school and sporting events. He also loved to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events and was a big fan of the Oregon State Beavers.

Bob was married to Jean for 58 years before her passing in December 2019. He is survived his children: Tom (Debbie) Fessler, Rick (Melanie) Fessler, Karen (Ross) Jaeger, Sandy (Greg) Traeger and Jodi (Lance) Arritola. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind his siblings, Ken Fessler and Donna Wagner. Along with his wife, Jean, he was also preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Clara Fessler and sister Ede Hopkins.

A rosary was held Thursday, June 11, 2026, with mass of Christian burial Friday, June 12, both at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mt. Angel.

A special thank you for all the love and support during his last few months and to the staff at Mt. Angel Towers and Serene Gardens – your support has been a blessing to his family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, Mt. Angel, Oregon. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.

Price cut

By James Day

The Silverton City Council on June 17 received some better news on the downtown park planned for a piece of the former Eugene Field School site.

At a previous council session on June 3, councilors balked at the $10 million price tag for the proposed park, with Mayor Jason Freilinger, noting other city needs, vowing that $7 million should be the ceiling. Well, they are not at $7 million yet, but councilors left the June 17 meeting much happier than they did June 3. Key cost reductions occurred in two of the biggest ticket items, a visitor center building that also will house the Silverton Chamber of Commerce and a splash pad water feature. The visitor center will be downsized, while the splash pad has been reconfigured so that it also will hold the water used for irrigation purposes. New Public Works director Jerry Nelzen came up with the water use idea, city officials said. City staff were reworking the proposal, which is at the 60% design phase, right until

the start of the meeting, resulting in no firm overall budget number. City Manager Cory Misley told Our Town that it is at least a $2 million reduction “with additional refinements still underway before final design and cost estimates are completed.”

No votes were taken, although the councilors clearly were favoring it.

In other city action:

Election: Incumbent Mayor Jason Freilinger has announced plans to seek a third twoyear term as mayor. Freilinger was elected in 2022, replacing Kyle Palmer, and was re-elected in 2024. In a statement, Freilinger said: “I will be running for my third twoyear term. The council and I have done a great deal in the last four years – finished the City Hall, rebuilt North Second Street, constructed the All-Abilities Park, the pickleball courts and the new dog park. We also have multiple projects planned for 2027 and 2028: the Main Street rebuild, Plaza Park, the Petit Lake Trail, a new water treatment plant, and a West Side Storage tank.”

Freilinger noted that a lobbying trip to Salem led to a $5 million appropriation from the Legislature for the water treatment part, which could cost as much as $20 million.

“Cities across the state see Silverton as a model of how to effectively and affordably get things done,” he said. “I love doing this work for Silverton and want to continue to be a part of the significant progress that the city and council have achieved.”

Nomination papers for both the mayoral race and three City Council seats are available at City Hall, with Hilary Dumitrescu the lead contact person for elections information. The seats up are currently held by councilors April Newton, Eric Hammond and Marie Traeger. Councilors serve four-year terms.

Dumitrescu told Our Town that applications will be accepted through Aug. 25. Key qualifications are you must be at least 18, a resident of Silverton for the past 12 months and a registered Oregon voter.

Candidates wishing to file by petition need to collect 20 verified signatures of registered

Silverton voters. Applicants may also file by submitting a fee of $50. Dumistrescu can be reached at 503-874-2221 or  hdumitrescu@silverton.or.us

City Charter: A city task force has made a series of suggestions to update the city charter, which has not been amended since 1985. Most of the changes are intended to put the city’s governing document in line with model provisions established by the League of Oregon Cities.

During the June 17 public comment period, former city councilor Scott Walker suggested that council seats be changed to a ward/precinct system rather than be elected at-large. Walker expressed concerns that it would be possible for all of the council members to live in one neighborhood. A council vote is required to put the charter update on the Nov. 3 ballot.

Budget: The City Council has unanimously approved a pair of spending plans. First, councilors backed a $1.6 million budget for the city’s urban renewal program and later in the meeting signed off on a $116 million budget for the city.

The Forum Park Plaza

Are big city elements right for a small town?

Editor’s note: This column was received prior to the most recent Silverton City Council meeting, however, after the meeting the writer still felt it was relevant and requested publication.

Guest Opinion

Michael L. Wellman, architect, retired

It should come as no surprise the two proposed City projects (Main Street and Park Plaza) are so expensive.

The City started these projects with no publicly stated or shared budget. With no budget it’s a designer’s dream. Let’s look at the Plaza Park project.

The only thing missing on the design is a Ferris wheel. I joke, but what initially started as a fairly simple design concept has become much more than simple, and along the way costs have soared as seen in the budget numbers. I won’t go into detail regarding the curving walks simulating Silver Creek, or mounded landscaping, high maintenance landscapes areas, maybe shade structures and more.

As a retired architect the focus here is the “visitor center.”

If anyone were to review the consultants’ 12 visitor center precedents presented to the City as examples, they’d note that all these centers are for parks or similar venues. None for a city, let alone a small town like Silverton.

Let’s look at the proposed building and renderings. The narrative, sketches, concepts, plans etc. remind me of a design project for an architectural school not the work of professionals.

First of all the “HISTORICAL PRECEDENT” photos of mill and barn buildings have no connection to what’s been proposed other than “wood cladding.” Roof lines, however, do emulate the nearby new City Hall. The 3D renderings appear, in my opinion, to be AI generated but even if they’re not, notice the overhang area on the east end where the “historic”

unsupported glulam beams appear to float in space.

As it turns out, this is only possible by hanging them from a very expensive hidden steel beam structure buried within the roof. It turns out all the beams are structurally FAKE. You can see these beams resting on windows which again is structurally impossible.

This is a bad and expensive design and should not be acceptable to anyone. The floor plan has issues too, but not worth a discussion now.

One example of historic precedent type buildings would be timber frame construction. These structures are true examples of craftsmanship and the use of the wood that made Silverton what it is today. There nothing fake about these structures.

I’d suggest the visitor center be put on hold for now. I’m not sure the current design team is the right team. I’d expect more for the over $2 million in design fees.

A visitor center does not need to be 3000 square feet. How will this structure generate income to pay for itself? Who will manage it? Lots of questions that need answers. Grants are not a reliable source for funds.

One last comment about parking. While adding about 13 parking spaces on Park Street is a good thing, the cost of this street improvement will be expensive as well. The motel and restaurants will be pleased, however.

As another cost savings I’d suggest putting the Park Street savings into developing the City-owned lot to the north for mandatory City staff parking to free up the current parking for the new plaza/park.

City Council needs to take a serious look at all aspects of this project and how to best spend and not waste resources before it’s too late. Are big city designs best for our town?

Silverton $450,000

Charming 1920 bungalow with view over downtown Silverton. Two bedrooms, one bath, hardwood floors and original details. Basement. Korinna Barcroft 503-851-1283 MLS#840171

Silverton $999,000

Beautifully renovated Victorian tri-plex near historic Silverton park and hospital, 3 blocks to downtown. 3717 sqft. Contact Linda Webb for more information 503-508-7387 MLS#835569

Silverton $795,000

55 acres to build your dream home! Pre-existing manufactured home. 15-acre Xmas tree lease, some timber. Picturesque setting in Silverton Hills. Valerie Kofstad 503871-1667 MLS#841127

Mt. Angel $659,000

Saint Mary’s Avenue, solidly built home with remodeled kitchen, 1950’s charm, large backyard and a basement. Sheila Sitzman 303-885-0679 MLS#841363

Silverton $985,000 Farm-to-table style belongs in a magazine! Three acres with a sunset views, large 49x60 shop, level usable ground, turn around drive. Gorgeous! Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667 MLS#840763

Silverton $99,000 55+ community, close to Silverton High School on Pine Street. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, 1344 sqft. Contact Korinna Barcroft 503-851-1283 MLS#839213

Scotts Mills $375,000 What an opportunity! 1.13 acres, 2382 sqft, with a charming fixer upper house. Contact Donna Paradis for more information 503-851-0998 MLS#838382

Silverton $439,000

Crafstman cottage style near Mark Twain school. Two bedrooms, one bathroom, quaint front porch. Sheila Sitzman 303-885-0679 MLS#841017

Silverton $769,900 3398 sqft home with lots of room! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths plus a den/office. Three-car garage, Silverton Heights subdivision. Korinna Barcroft 503-851-1283 MLS#840890

Silverton $1,074,000

Beautifully remodeled home with a view on 9 acres!

Gourmet kitchen, high-end amenities. 2920 sqft. Etta Hess 503-507-5786 and Donna Rash 503-871-0490 MLS#837156

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

Silverton $519,500 Webb Lake neighborhood, stunning upgrades and quality finishes, acacia wood floors, priced to sell! Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779 MLS#840989

Visual prayer

By Melissa Wagoner

When Kati Reyes took her first iconography painting class from the Classical Iconography Institute in Portland, she knew she’d found her niche.

“Marrying my faith and my art made it feel more meaningful than doodling on my own,” Reyes said. She is a lifelong artist and painter who converted to Catholicism when she was 16.

“I’ve heard iconography described as a visual prayer. It tells a story beyond what you see. There is meaning behind the colors… the background, the props tell a story. It can communicate beyond language and beyond centuries… like you’re speaking to a saint through a veil. They speak to you as you create.”

The first saint Reyes chose to paint was Maria Goretti, an Italian virgin martyr born in 1890 who, at the age of 11, died after she was sexually assaulted – but not before she forgave her attacker, a man who later converted and lived a life of penance.

Iconography exhibit in Mt. Angel

Mt. Angel Abbey Library.

“Until recently every saint was in a drawer and I wouldn’t even put them up in my own house,” Reyes said. “Because you want the saint to shine through, you don’t want to elevate yourself above the message.”

But Maria Goretti’s message is one Reyes feels too strongly about to hide her away and it’s one she hopes will inspire other survivors of domestic violence.

“When I found Maria Goretti, I didn’t even bother to look up who she was,” Reyes recalled. “Later I did and [learned] she’s the patron saint of forgiveness and domestic violence. I spent my late teens in two abusive relationships. So, I kind of felt like she picked me.”

Painted using the ancient egg tempera method, Reyes’ depiction of Maria Goretti was recently chosen to be part of the Agios: A Communion of Saints exhibition in the

“I hope [visitors] feel at peace knowing whatever they’re going through in the moment has a reason,” Reyes said.

“Even if they’re in darkness, five years from now they might look back on that and know they have everything they prayed for.”

But that doesn’t mean getting to that place is easy.

“It sucks you in and it feels like there’s never going to be a day that it will get better,” Reyes said, adding that, unlike Maria Goretti, she has struggled to forgive her abusers. “It’s been five years since the last relationship ended and forgiveness is still something I have to pray for every day.”

Painting Maria Goretti for the past nine months has helped her heal in new ways.

Agios: A Communion of Saints

An iconography exhibition presented by the Classical Iconography Institute in Portland Mt. Angel Abbey Library

1 Benedict Dr., St. Benedict, Oregon

Now through Aug. 2

Library hours: Monday through Friday

By Melissa Wagoner

As the owner of the bookstore, Books-N-Time in Silverton, Karolle Hughes gets the same two questions nearly every day: “Have you read all the books in the store?” and “How do you write a book?”

The answer to the first question is an easy one: no. But the second question has kept Hughes puzzling for years.

“That question got asked often enough it planted a seed in my head,” she said. “So, I talked to a couple of local authors about a writer’s workshop.”

The authors Hughes contacted were Silverton history preservationist, Norman English, and William J. Cook, the author of the psychological thriller, Persona

“The reason I invited two authors is one writes non-fiction and the other writes fiction and neither have the same writing style,” Hughes said. “I figured they’d have two

“After nine months of sketching, drafting, changing every little thing and then painting… it’s done…” Reyes said. Speculating, “I think I’ll see her on display in Mt. Angel and feel at peace.”

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Or during the Saint Benedict Festival on Saturday, July 11, noon to 4 p.m. Festival tickets online at  mountangelabbey.org

So, You Want to Write a Book

Books-N-Time, 210 N. Water St., Silverton Saturday, July 18, 2 to 4 p.m.

Free to writers 17 and older

Register by calling 503-874-4311 or respond on Facebook Messenger

perspectives and a different way of answering questions.”

Coined, “So You Want to Write a Book: Beginning your writing journey,” the workshop will take place at Books N Time on July 18, 2 to 4 p.m.

“It’s going to be a fairly informal fireside chat with a lot of give and take,” Hughes said. “It’s not a lecture. The first 30

minutes will be personal journey, then it’s kind of open to people asking questions.”

The goal is to continue these sessions in coming months, hopefully growing to include additional authors writing in other genres.

“We’ll take the questions and build into the next workshop…” Hughes confirmed. “This is for people who are really curious about how you write a book.”

Although the event is free for writers 17 and older, Hughes is requesting attendees preregister by either Facebook Messenger or by calling Books-N-Time at 503-874-4311.

“We want to get a feel for the numbers,” Hughes explained. “But we won’t turn people away. We’re having fun planning it.”

Artist Kati Reyes created the iconography of Saint Maria Goretti, part Angel Abbey Library exhibit. SUBMITTED

The year in review

I have been covering sports for Our Town since 2012. This school year I counted 38 individual events that I covered, everything from boys volleyball to invitational cross country. I think I counted basketball doubleheaders as two games, but I’m not sure. And I’m too tired to resolve this.

I started with an Aug. 29 non-league football game between Stayton and Philomath and ended with Kennedy beating Crosshill Christian for the Class 2A-1A baseball title at Roto-Rooter Park in Keizer.

My first rule of high school sports coverage is that the weather almost always is better for the first football game than it is for the final baseball/softball contest. Sure enough, on June 6, the first game of the tripleheader, the Class 6A final between West Linn and Clackamas, experienced a 20-minute rain delay. There was a glorious summer sunset for Stayton-Philomath.

I say almost always because I experienced a hailstorm during warmups when Silverton opened the 2015 football season at Wilson (now Ida B. Wells) of Portland. A glorious

sunset followed and the school on a hill offered nice views to the west. But I digress.

In terms of this year’s highlights, those are pretty easy. Silverton football and dance and drill and Kennedy baseball all won state titles, with the Foxes dancing to two titles, in both traditional and jazz. Great stories and performances all, but I think I’m going to go in a bit of a different direction here.

What I’d like to focus on is a trend that I have been seeing of high schoolers being involved in multiple and oftentimes conflicting activities. My mantra about both sports and news coverage with Our Town is that it is my job to find people doing good things and then put their names in the paper.

One of my favorites in 2025-26 was Levi Schurter, a now senior-to-be at Silverton. He played football and basketball for the Foxes, was one of two players to speak at an all-school assembly after the football state title, spoke on behalf of the team at post-game joint prayers with opponents, participated in speech and debate and placed second in extemporaneous speaking at the state FFA. Whew!

The Foxes also have Maddy Ehrens, a standout catcher on the softball team and a state champion shot putter. Please note that both sports are conducted in the spring. And when I went to the assembly to honor the Foxes dance and drill team, one of the four team captains, Marissa Schacher, spoke on behalf of the squad and also joined the school choir for the national anthem. She also helped lead that school choir to second place in the OSAA state competition.

Kennedy, for the first time in track and field coach Steve Ritchie’s 30-plus year career, had athletes who competed in both track and field and equestrian, Reaghan Williams and Sabina Nguyen. How cool is that?

Academics: The OSAA’s academic all-state lists are out, with Silverton and Kennedy both fielding 10 teams with a 3.0 grade-point average or better. Rankings are by sport. The top individual team and GPA was turned in by boys swimming at Kennedy, which led the field with a 3.95. Silverton’s highest finishing team was football, where its 3.37 finished fourth. Girls cross country had the best number, 3.88, which was good for ninth.

Other Silverton teams above 3.0 included girls swimming (4th, 3.82), dance/drill (3rd, 3.79), girls volleyball (6th, 3.79), cheerleading (10th, 3.68), boys swimming (5th, 3.62), girls basketball (12th, 3.62), boys cross country (17th, 3.54) and boys basketball (7th, 3.52).

Other Kennedy teams included girls basketball (tie for 3rd, 3.84), girls swimming (6th, 3.77), boys basketball (3rd, 3.72), baseball (2nd, 3.63), girls volleyball (12th, 3.61), boys cross country (12th, 3.48), boys wrestling (4th, 3.23), girls cross country (21st, 3.04) and football (tied for 14th, 3.01 in Class 3A).

Riding into the future

When I was a kid in the 1960s my favorite books were about the future. They featured supersonic airplanes and all sorts of geewhiz gadgets like video screens you wear on your wrist and rocket ships that would take astronauts to the moon.

These books made it seem as though many technological breakthroughs were just around the corner.

As it turns out, they were. My wrist watch has a video screen and even talks to me. The space race is again barreling toward the moon – and beyond. A fleet of satellites allows us to communicate from our seat on an airliner with anyone, anywhere in the world. Supersonic airliners are on the drawing boards. Citizens – very rich citizens – are rocketing into space. How cool is that?

One innovation that has been somewhat elusive is a self-driving car. A year ago I was in Los Angeles and spied a Waymo –a car with a bunch of techno-gear attached that allowed it to drive itself.

I was incredulous.

“I’d like to ‘test-drive’ one of them,” I told a friend at the time, “but I’m not sure I trust it. Too many things can go wrong.”

Here’s an update: The other day I rode in another car – a Tesla – that drove itself to the grocery store and back. Yes, the car’s owner was in the driver’s seat, but he only told the car where he wanted to go, and the car did the rest.

It was a ride into the future.

The car did as it was told. It was quiet –unlike Uber drivers – and it maneuvered through town safely. It even avoided a car piloted by a human when it veered into our lane.

Readers of this column will recall that I am not a fan of “artificial intelligence,” an umbrella term for computers with the capacity to sort through mass quantities of information on the internet and make sense of it. Billionaires around the world are dumping zillions of dollars into their efforts to develop AI that can do things. Their goal appears to be to replace a lot of humans who do those things. This will presumably be cheaper for companies, if not better.

Most AI isn’t yet ready for prime time. It makes mistakes and makes stuff up, which makes me worry about the sanity of those corporate and government bigwigs who are throwing money at AI.

But that car ride gave me a glimpse at the value of AI. In certain circumstances a self-driving car could help a elderly person – me, for example – get to the store or to a doctor appointment. It could also take me to visit a neighbor around the block or a relative across the country.

The possibilities are endless, and they

continue to brighten the future.

I am sure many of the AI initiatives will fail. For example, the cell phone company I use has switched from humans who answered my questions to AI, which set a new world record for annoying claptrap. It didn’t help me and tried to sell me a new phone at the same time.

By the time I hung up I wanted to kick that little SOB right in the computer chips.

I suppose there will always be hits and misses with technology. Rockets occasionally blow up on the launch pad. Even cell phone companies goof up.

Overall, though, technology will continue to add net gains to our lives. I just hope these proponents of AI tap the brakes on some of the “innovations” until they work reliably and well and for the benefit of us all.

So far, that often has not been the case. Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.

GENERAL

MT. ANGEL SENIOR CENTER

is a non-profit consignment store for artisans over 50, a community center, home to Meals on Wheels, and serves as a food bank. Volunteers welcome! 195 E Charles St. 503-845-6998 or mtangelcommunity@gmail.com

Tired of THE AD? Month after month the full page PAID ADVERTISEMENT invades our mailboxes. Visit tiredofgreggharris.com

SERVICES

SOUNDS GOOD STUDIO

BANDS Artists, Personal Karaoke CDs, Books, Restoring Picture Slides & VHS video to DVD. Old Cassettes, Records, Reel to Reel & 8 Track Cassettes restored to CD. Call Harold 503-391-7406. A Magic Carpet Cleaning & More Service

MAGIC CARPET CLEANING & MORE Since 1992. Carpet & upholstery cleaning at its best. Free estimates. Residential & commercial. Located in Silverton. Call Harold at 503-391-7406

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

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

Pride

your ad in Marketplace 503-845-9499

HANDYMAN & HOME

REPAIR SERVICE Installation and repair of fencing, decks, doors, gutter cleaning, moss removal, power washing, yard debris removal. CCB# 206637 Call Ryan 503-881-3802

RENTALS

RENT EVENT SPACE AT THE SILVERTON GRANGE HALL 291 Division St, Silverton. Affordable hourly, half day, full day rates. Family gatherings, classes, yoga, dances, meetings, baptisms, weddings and more! Fully equipped kitchen, plenty of parking. Hall seats up to 70. Call Silverton Grange, 503-516-5722

ROOM FOR RENT 3br/2ba in Lyons. $600/mo 503-409-1810

To advertise call 503-845-9499

SILVERTON 2BR, 1BA two-story home in downtown area. Garbage included. No animals, no smoking. $1750/mo

SILVERTON Built in 2024, 3BR, 2.5BA townhouse. Kitchen appliances, single garage, close to downtown. $2300/mo

BROOKS Completely refurbished, 2+ BR, 2BA country home surrounded by beautiful farmland. Easy access to I5 and Hwy 99E. 2700+sf, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, detached garage. No animals, no smoking. $2750/mo

Caldwell 50 3-873-7069

Integrity • Respect

Since 1974, John's has aimed to embody five core values; pride, integrity, respect, loyalty, and the ability to thrive. This month we would like to highlight local Mount Angel High School Student Emil Gossling Emil is being recognized for exemplifying the value; to Thrive. Emil came to the school as an exchange student, which can be difficult with such a tight-knit school. Even so, one his first day, he charmed people and began to thrive in our

as well.

Kirsten Barnes Broker 873-3545 ext. 326 Whitney Ulven Broker, GRI 503-873-3545 ext. 320

Ulven Broker 503-873-3545 ext. 312 Meredith Wertz Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 324 Ryan Wertz Principal Broker, GRI 873-3545 ext. 322

White Broker 873-3545 ext. 325

#T2936 WELL MAINTAINED HOME $520,000

Beautifully maintained home in the desirable Webb Lake Community. From the inviting covered front porch to the fully fenced backyard, this home has so much to offer. Walk into an open floor plan with an additional flex room on the main floor. Use this space as an office or additional bedroom! A large bonus room upstairs has endless possibilities. Fresh paint, updated water heater, HVAC and appliances. Call Becky at ext. 313 (WVMLS#840048)

#T2945 HAS IT ALL $1,285,000 This two-acre property is on the edge of the Willamette Valley just five minutes east of Salem. Quiet rural setting of acreage homes. Extensive remodeling and upgrades done under this ownership since 2017. All systems have been worked on from well, septic, to shop heating system. Basement remodel created a wonderful indoor entertaining space. Outdoor living space built in 2019 includes a red brick fireplace. Call Michael at ext. 314 (WVMLS#842038)

#T2943 BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED 55+ HOME $165,000

Manufactured home in Silverton Mobile Estates offers comfort, style, and convenience. Recent improvements include a new roof, newer flooring, updated cabinets, modern countertops, and newer appliances. Enjoy the inviting covered front deck, perfect for entertaining yearround. The home features a spacious layout with two large bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Located right at the entrance, a prime location. Truly is unbeatable! Call Becky at ext. 313 (WVMLS#841456)

NEW — #T2936 WELL MAINTAINED SILVERTON HOME 3+ BR, 2.5 BA 1980 sqft Call Becky at ext. 313 $520,000 (WVMLS#840048)

#T2930 CLASSIC SILVERTON HOME 3 BR, 1 BA 1340 sqft. Call Becky at ext. 313 $449,000 (WVMLS#840188)

#T2935 CHARMING 1990’s HOME 3 BR, 2 BA 1540 sqft Call Chuck at ext. 325 $509,900 (WVMLS#839889)

#T2938 SILVERTON PRIVATE OASIS 3 BR, 2.5 BA 2078 sqft, .31 acres. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $689,700 (WVMLS#840466)

#T2939 SILVERTON WONDERFUL DOUBLE WIDE 55+ PARK

3 BR, 2 BA, 1620 sqft. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $148,700 (WVMLS#840467)

#T2933 CHARMING SILVERTON HOME 2+BR, 2 BA 2087 sqft. Call Becky at ext. 313 $499,000 (WVMLS#838925)

#T2941 SILVERTON INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

2 BR, 1 BA 936 sqft. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $297,800 (WVMLS#840963)

#T2943 BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED 55+ HOME 2 BR, 2 BA 1152 sqft. Call Becky at ext. 313 $165,000 (WVMLS#841456)

NEW — #T2945 HAS IT ALL 3 BR, 3 BA 3117 sqft 2.00 Acres Call Michael at ext. 314 $825,000 (WVMLS#842038)

SILVERTON- T2934 CLASSIC 1915 FARMHOUSE 3 BR, 3 BA 2384 sqft., 2.33 acres. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $824,800 (WVMLS#839102)

#T2928 SCOTTS MILLS 5+ PEACEFUL ACRES 3 BR, 2.5 BA 1660 sqft., 5.19 acres. Call Chuck at ext. 325 $699,000 (WVMLS#837712)

#T2917 SILVERTON HOUSE & BUILDABLE LOT 2 BR, 2 BA, 1275 sqft., 3.05 acres. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $944,800 (WVMLS#835689)

#T2910 SCOTTS MILLS ONCE IN A LIFETIME 2 BR, 3.5 BA 4253 sqft., 9.36 acres. Call Chuck at ext. 325 $1,825,000 (WVMLS#834432) PENDING — #T2911 MONMOUTH HORSE LOVERS DREAM 3 BR, 1.5 BA 1832 sqft., 5 acres. Call Becky at