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Recognition
By James Day
Silverton City Manager Cory Misley has received a 10 percent raise and a $6,000 bonus after an evaluation led by Mayor Jason Freilinger and the City Council.
“I am pleased with Cory’s performance, and it has been a pleasure to work with him,” Freilinger told Our Town in an email.
Misley, who passed his two-year anniversary with the city on Oct. 16, has a new annual salary of $175,687. Freilinger said he “pulled comps (comparable salary figures) for city managers in the Willamette Valley, similar in size to Silverton. Based on those comps and Cory’s years of experience and performance, he received a 10 percent pay increase.”
The one-time $6,000 bonus was added to note Misley’s achievement of accreditation with the International City/County Management Association and for taking on extra duties after Public Works Director Travis Sperle left the city on May 30.
The new contract was unanimously approved.
When asked for a comment on the new contract Misley told Our Town via email “I am grateful for the continued support and trust from the Silverton City Council and community. The city of Silverton team is proud of our accomplishments in the last two years, and the positive momentum we have going on with so many other capital projects, planning efforts, and continued improvements to day-to-day operations.”
Silverton city manager gets raise, bonus
In other city updates:
Sheltering Silverton: The City Council at its Nov. 5 meeting approved an appropriation of $40,000 from its affordable housing fund to help pay for a family shelter. Sheltering Silverton hopes to establish a family shelter in a house on church property. The house, whose location has not been made public, would be available for a homeless family for up to a maximum of 30 days with the goal of finding permanent housing.
The nonprofit is working to offset the loss of federal funding which it used to support a hotel-voucher program for families. The main Sheltering Silverton facility in the Public Works compound does not allow families. Executive Director Sarah White said she hopes to open the shelter by the first week of January.
Oregon Garden: The city and the Oregon Garden Foundation teamed up on the removal in late October of the large, wooden-beamed sign at the entrance to the Garden. Delen Kitchen, operations manager of the Garden, said that the process of removal left no doubt that the right decision was made.
“The timbers were nearly rotted through in places, and the wood was so wet that it was smoking from the friction of the chainsaws,” Kitchen told Our Town
A temporary sign will be installed to ensure that the Oregon Garden remains clearly identified while plans for a new sign are developed.
The process it to include opportunities for public input to help guide the design.
Community grants: The council is planning to use $30,000 in city general funds to issue grants to community groups.
The effort is aimed at replacing grant funds that used to be available from the Mayors’ Ball fundraiser as well as tourism promotion. The grants are designed to go to organizations which:
• provide assistance for essential utilities, food, medical needs, clothing or shelter
• provide education or recreational opportunities for community members.
• generate/support economic activity in Silverton.
Misley told Our Town that “we anticipate the Community Grant Program to open in February 2026, and distribution of funds would be in late March or April.”
Silverton Police Department awards: Cristy Berning, the SPD’s support services manager has been given the outstanding achievement award from the Oregon Association of Property and Evidence Officers. Berning was honored for her 2024 work in relocating the property and evidence room from the old City Hall to the new building. Officer Nick Riedel received a life saving and valor award from the Oregon Police Officers Association for his efforts to save a juvenile from Silver Creek during a 2024 rescue. Rob Wood, a long-time SPD volunteer, has received an OPOA public service award for his work as a firearms instructor and trainer as well as his role in developing Silverton’s Citizens Academy.
Labor: Talks continue between the city and its unionized Public Works employees. The current contract expired June 30. Because all negotiations have been conducted in private, no word was available on what issues are dividing the two sides.
Mt. Angel approves 13% raise for police
By Stephen Floyd
The Mt. Angel City Council has approved a 13 percent raise for the Police Department during a contentious meeting that saw four rounds of voting on the issue.
During the council’s regular meeting Nov. 3, officials voted 4-3 to offer the raise to the Mt. Angel Police Association as part of ongoing negotiations with the union.
The offer was above a 9 percent increase previously approved by the union.
During that meeting Mayor Joe Pfau said the increase would not go far enough to solve the city’s ongoing problem of high turnover and difficulty filling officer positions. He asked staff to prepare a proposal that would place Mt. Angel’s police salaries on par with Silverton, which has a fully-staffed police department.
A report shared Nov. 3 said the increase from 9 to 13 percent would cost the city an extra $30,272 this next fiscal year if the department was fully staffed. Currently the department has only five out of seven positions filled, while the position of chief is paid at half-time because Chief Mark Daniel also works as city manager.
Council members were split on whether or not to approve the 9 or 13 percent increase. Councilors Matt Donohue, Ray Eder and Jack Belleque backed 9 percent, while Pfau and councilors David Hoffer and Tony Astorga voted for 13 percent Councilor Shelley Otte opposed both proposals.
During a fourth vote, Otte changed her vote and the 13 percent increase passed 4-3.
The matter now goes before the police union for approval. The contract at issue would also raise police pay by 5 percent each of the following two fiscal years.
Cory Misley JAMES DAY
Knoll appointed
Long-time educator joins Silver Falls School District board
By Stephen Floyd
Local graduate and former Dallas school principal Kasshawna Knoll has been appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Silver Falls School District (SFSD) Board and was officially sworn in Oct. 28.
Knoll was one of seven candidates to apply for the Zone 7 seat, vacated Aug. 31 by longtime board member Tom Buchholz. Zone 7 represents Scotts Mills and other areas east and south of Silverton.
During an interview with applicants Oct. 13 before the board, Knoll said she has a long history in the area, being a graduate of Scotts Mills School and Silverton High School. She also has a long history in education, starting out in 1996 as an educator in Texas.
In 1998 she moved to Hungary to work as an economics teacher for American International School of Budapest. Then in 2008 she returned to Oregon to work as an administrator for the Oregon Trail School District, in Sandy, including as coordinator of their Talented and Gifted Program and as district assistant director.
In 2021 Knoll became principal of La Creole Middle School in Dallas, before joining the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission in 2024 as an investigator. Knoll told the board the district’s “first and foremost need is what’s best for our students” and this is the “true north” of all decisions the board makes. She said decisions also must be based on data and balance both short-term and long-term needs.
“Some people might be unhappy with us,” said Knoll. “As long as we’re transparent and explain the ‘Why’ behind the decision-making is, I think, one of the crucial points of keeping all those needs balanced as much as possible.”
As far as specific issues before the board, Knoll said the district is facing significant funding cuts to special education and rising costs related to public employee pensions. She said they need to act strategically to work around these funding challenges.
When asked what unique perspectives she brings to the board, Knoll said she has the benefit of being deeply rooted in Scotts Mills but also well-traveled in the U.S. and abroad. Her teaching experience has included schools in Indiana and Texas, as well as 10 years in Budapest, Hungary. She has also worked for a variety of institutions including public and charter schools and homeschools.
“I’ve had a chance to see a variety of different ways of approaching education,” said Knoll.
Board Vice-Chair Derrick Foxworth said Knoll stood out as a candidate because of her experience, and Board Chair Phil Wiesner agreed Knoll was his “number-one” candidate. Board Member Sarah Dalisky said the fact that Knoll attended a school in Zone 7 was beneficial and would allow Knoll to “really represent that zone.”
Knoll was appointed in a 5-1 decision, with Board Member Wally Lierman voting for retired SFSD administrator Bryan Starr. Knoll was sworn in during the board’s Oct. 28 regular meeting.
Wiesner said he was grateful to all seven candidates who applied for the seat and desire to serve the district.
“It’s nice to know there’s that many people out there who are willing to share their gifts with us,” said Wiesner.
MASD prioritizing diversity for board seat appointment
The Mt. Angel School District (MASD) is accepting applications for an open seat on the district board, with officials hoping to remove barriers to diverse representation.
The seat for Position 1 became vacant Sept. 15 following the resignation of former Board Member Irene Novichihin, who moved out of the district.
Applications are being accepted through Nov. 24 and may be download at https://www.masd91.org/schoolboard/school-board-vacancy/. The board may make an appointment as soon as its Dec. 8 regular meeting.
During the Oct. 13 regular meeting, board members said they want to make sure people of diverse backgrounds and experiences feel welcome to apply. This includes those for whom English is not their first language. The board plans to bring an interpreter if needed to a special session for interviewing candidates Dec. 1.
“I’m going to be looking for establishing diversity of perspectives,” said Superintendent Lisa Harlan to the board. Depending on the number and quality of applicants, the board may make an appointment Dec. 8 or may choose to extend the selection process. District bylaws give the board broad discretion on how to make an appointment. An appointee would serve the remainder of Novichihin’s term through June of 2027. After this the position would be filled by the winner of the May 2027 Special District Election. Applications may be submitted by email to jill.holland@masd91.org or in person at the district office, 730 E. Marquam St., Mt. Angel.
Appointees must be registered to vote within the district, be eligible to hold public office, and must not be a district employee.
– Stephen Floyd
Kasshawna Knoll SUBMITTED PHOTO
Helping Hands
Season of Giving
By Melissa Wagoner
For many people, the holidays are a time of giving, not just to family and friends, but also to charitable organizations within their community.
“[W]e often hear from people who want to know how they can help,” Roger Fuhrman – Development and Communications Manager for Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA) – said.
And that’s a good thing because the number of people seeking assistance often peaks during the winter months.
“People who work summer seasonal jobs may be seeing reduced hours or may be let go for the season,” Fuhrman explained. “Utility bills are often higher for heat and electricity. We are also expecting to see more need in the community with reductions in benefits and changes in SNAP, WIC, TANF and other programs.”
For those looking to contribute this holiday season, here are some ways you can help this year.
Gift Cards
Purchasing holiday gifts for someone you don’t know can be complicated, especially when that someone is a child.
“People always want to help with toys but it’s tricky,” Sarah White, the director of Sheltering Silverton, said.
That’s partly because donors often don’t know the child’s specific needs or wants but also because a gift from a stranger simply cannot have the same impact or relationship-building effect as a gift given by that child’s caregiver.
“That’s why gift cards, so parents can give their own kids gifts, is helpful,” White said. “Because we want to help families in a long-term, sustainable way.”
Curated Gifts
But that’s not to say that all pre-purchased gifts should be avoided. In fact, there are times when a gift –especially one purchased with forethought – can be meaningful.
“Pajamas are always great,” White pointed out. “And we’re always happy to get food – baked goods, sandwiches…Oak Street Church always makes tons of cookies and brings them to the shelter.”
But it’s important to keep in mind, when donating anything, the limits of the shelter itself.
“We don’t have a real kitchen…” Sheltering Silverton’s program director Elyse McGowan-Kidd explained. “And we ask [residents] to keep their stuff at a minimum so [large gifts] can put them in a hard place.”
Experiences
That’s why another suggested donation is the provision
What local nonprofits really need
of experience gifts.
“Movie passes or gift certificates for things like gelato that create a positive experience for people,” White suggested, adding, “And pool passes are great gifts for kids.”
The experiential gifts don’t have to be expensive, even homemade experiences are wonderful.
“Like if someone brought cookies in and then we could frost them,” McGowan-Kidd suggested. “Because it’s so heavy, we try to promote whimsy wherever we can.”
Food
And, as White mentioned, donations of food are always appreciated – by Sheltering Silverton and area food banks alike. Items like soup and chili, pasta, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, pasta sauce, tuna, cereal, mac and cheese, produce, meat and dairy products.
“These food items focus on the most requested and impactful foods for the hungry that walk through our doors,” Janell Fehlen, Stayton Community Food Bank’s (SCFB) board president, said of the list.
And the majority – along with much needed personal care items and diapers – are shelf-stable enough to be donated at a food drive, one of the paramount ways SCFB not only receives donations during the holidays and promotion as well.
“The hosting of a food drive brings awareness of the hunger that exists in our own community and the needs
of the SCFB,” Fehlen said of the benefits these food drives have beyond the donation of non-perishable items.
“It is not unusual to get new volunteers or a new donation of funds as a result of someone seeing a food collection barrel in a church, store, business, or school.”
Volunteering time
That’s an important side-benefit because charitable organizations like SCFB and SACA are always looking for volunteers to stock shelves, process inventory and – now that SACA has changed locations – assist with community programming and the daily maintenance of a much larger space.
“In the near future, we’ll be recruiting volunteers to help with new programs, like helping with classes and operat[ing] mobile food pantries,” Fuhrman said. “We’re also looking for volunteers to help with landscaping, cleaning, IT and other needs.”
Monetary donations
Keeping a nonprofit afloat takes the work of many hands and contributions of all kinds including monetary donations. Donations are the lifeblood of all charitable organizations, keeping the lights on, the refrigerators cold, the buildings heated, the water flowing and – when food donations dip – the shelves full.
“Monetary gifts give us flexibility when our shelves are low and we must buy food,” Fehlen confirmed. “It allows us to be prepared when disaster strikes in the local area, when food insecurities becomes real for our neighbors that generally do not need our services.”
Monetary donations also provide organizations like SACA with the ability to provide utility or rent assistance, keeping community members in their homes – an accomplishment White considers the best present of all.
“Having a parent that isn’t worried about how to keep the lights on is the best gift you can give a child.”
Holiday meals
If you’re looking for something a little more festive, there’s SACA’s annual holiday meal service, which last year provided over 500 dinners to those eligible for SACA’s service. It hopes to do so again with the help of donated items like ham, turkey, store-bought pies and holiday staples like fresh cranberries and butter.
“We also appreciate having extra volunteers on hand to help distribute the meals,” Fuhrman said.
For those who are looking for a way to be of service, he added, “Donating or volunteering is a great way to bring cheer to local families during the holidays.”
Line outside of SACA this month as people seek food assistance. SUBMITTED PHOTO
SNAP pause Resources to tap
By Melissa Wagoner
While the suspension of the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) didn’t officially take place until Nov. 1, food banks began to see a noticeable increase in the need for assistance long before that.
“With a very real fear of losing SNAP benefits comes an understandable (and yet avoidable) rising sense of food insecurity,” Sarah DeSantis, executive director for Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA), explained.
“Because of that, the past two weeks have been the busiest weeks SACA has ever experienced. We served 236 households last week and 242 households this week (an all-time high) – these are people who live in our community… children, seniors, people with disabilities, and hard-working adults.”
Similarly, the Stayton Community Food Bank (SCFB) also noted an increase, serving 200 families during the last week of October alone – a 30 percent rise from 2024.
“Our focus is on continuing to give adequate amounts of food to all who come to us in need…” SCFB’s board president Janell Fehlen said. Adding, “We expect [that need] to continue to grow.”
Both organizations are calling for a continuation of the community support they are already seeing in the form of additional food donations and the supplementary gifting of free meals and grocery cards.
“All of the ways community members are coming up with to help fill the gap in food resources are amazing,” DeSantis said.
“We love seeing all the creative and caring ways folks want to show up for –and feed – each other.”
A listing of options includes:
Silverton
Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA)
1030 N. First St.
Mondays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.,
Tuesdays, 4. to 6 p.m.
Thursdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Mission of Hope at Silver Creek Fellowship
822 Industrial Way
Wednesdays, 2 to 4 p.m.
We All Dine in Silverton –meal delivery service
For more information contact the Facebook Page
Silverton Winter Market –“Give or Take Table”
Immanuel Lutheran Church,
303 N. Church St.
Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Warren – “Community Chest” pay it forward board and “Take a Can Leave a Can” shelf
218 East Main St.
Sunday – Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Oso – “Pay What You Can Thanksgiving Dinner”
200 E. Main St.
Email ososilverton@gmail.com to preorder for pickup on Nov. 26 or 27
Rustic Melt – free meals for those who lost SNAP benefits
311 N. Water St.
Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Oak Street Church’s Monday Meal
502 Oak St.
Mondays, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Mount Angel
Lou’s Kitchen – “Pay It Forward Wall”
190 E. Charles St.
Wednesday - Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m.
Additional Resources
Lasagna Love – coordinating the delivery of home cooked meals to families in need at https://lasagnalove.org/
Oregon Department of Human Services at http://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/.
Double Up Food Bucks – use any remaining SNAP funds at participating locations (www.doubleuporegon.org) and get double the fruits, vegetables, herbs and dried beans.
Silverton $1,400,000
Experience the good life! Exquisite, elegant home on Abiqua Creek, a canvas for art and wine collections. Full apt. with privacy from the main home. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#831851
Silverton $550,000
Webb Lake Silverton. Must sell, bring all offers! Fresh landscaping, corner lot, loaded with amenities. Angela DeSantis 503- 851-9286 MLS#833135
Silverton $749,000
Freshly updated on Abiqua Creek! 212’ creek frontage, 1920 sqft, shop w/full bath. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998
MLS#834191
Silverton $2,199,000
Refined country living. Stunning 4600 sqft estate on 22+ acres. Mountain views, sauna. Scott Stokley 503-586-8126
Silverton $189,000
Freshly remodeled, move-in ready manufactured home in Silverton Mobile Estates, built in 2000, 3 bedroom, 2 bath. Listed by Curtis Allen 971-701-3352 MLS#834885
Silverton $799,000
Picturesque views of the reservoir. Wall of windows, unique master suite with loft, shop, 2.6 acres. Rosie Wilgus 503-409-8779
MLS#830610
MLS#832444
Mt. Angel $649,000
Big price reduction! European styling, 2968 sqft, 2 blocks from schools. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998
MLS#832203
Silverton $655,000
Elegant Victorian style home on .61-acre lot.
10-foot ceilings, stained glass windows. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998
MLS#833557
Silverton $695,000 Classic beauty near historic Coolidge Park. Single level, entertainers delight. Linda Webb 503-508-7387
MLS#828366
Mt. Angel $659,000
Rich dark flooring, open staircase, classic quality, great room, large granite island. Valerie Kofstad 503-871-1667
Giving in a big way Homer Days presents $10,000 to SACA
By Melissa Wagoner
When most people think of the annual Homer Davenport Community Festival, they might picture the parade, the celebration at Coolidge McClaine Park or the Davenport Races downtown.
Fewer people know is the festival’s philanthropic side, the one that makes possible two yearly scholarships – one service based, the other art based – each in the amount of $1,000. The goal the organization has long been to support the community in other ways, namely through food drives for Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA).
“We had discussed creating a ‘Locals Night’ on the Friday of Homer Davenport Festival and having SACA food barrels available for donations, as well as having SACA barrels at our annual parade,” board member Deanne Feller said.
But the group hadn’t solidified its plans for the coming year when board president Richard Carlson came to the group with a proposal.
“Richard had a family member volunteer at one of the local food banks and they had to turn away many hungry families…” Feller said, referring to the impact one week without the Supplementary Nutritional Aid Program (SNAP) had on local food banks, which served a record breaking number of families. “We knew we needed to act now…”
Providing a $10,000 check to SACA on
Nov. 6, the Homer Davenport Festival board met with DeSantis and learned that, even prior to the pause in SNAP funding, SACA had been experiencing an exceptionally challenging year. Cuts to several federally funded food programs –including the USDA, which provides food directly to area food banks like Marion Polk Food Share from local farmers –meant less food has been available for local pantries like SACA.
“That started earlier this year,” DeSantis confirmed.
Additionally, food banks across the state have been recording a record number of households visiting their sites.
“Last week we saw 240 households in a week…” DeSantis said, comparing that number to the busiest week in 2024 – the week prior to Thanksgiving – which saw 236. “And last year we provided $300,000 in financial support.”
So, even with SNAP benefits in Oregon finally being released on Nov. 7, the Homer Davenport Festival’s contribution couldn’t have come at a better time.
“We can leverage it to buy food,” DeSantis explained. “But we do a lot more than that.… Because the relationship between food insecurity and housing insecurity go hand-in-hand and right now people who rely on [food assistance] are having to make hard decisions.”
Members of the Homer Davenport Community Festival board including Deanne Feller (third from left) and Richard Carlson (third from right) handing a $10,000 check to Sarah DeSantis, Executive Director of SACA. MELISSA WAGONER
Chamber asks neighbors to shop local Pink Friday
Friday, Nov. 21 Silverton businesses are painting the town pink in celebration of Pink Friday, a national movement that encourages shoppers to think local first.
The event, coordinated by the Silverton Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, invites residents and visitors to support independent shops, restaurants and service providers right here at home.
Pink Friday is the small-business answer to Black Friday—an opportunity to celebrate the heart and soul of the community before the holiday rush begins.
“When you shop local, you’re not just checking off a shopping list—you’re investing in your neighbors, your downtown, and the character that makes Silverton such a special place,” said
Stacy Palmer, Executive Director of the Silverton Chamber of Commerce.
Many Silverton businesses will offer special promotions, giveaways, and extended hours to make the day festive and fun. Shoppers are encouraged to wear pink, explore downtown, and share their experiences on social media using #ShopPinkSilverton and #ExploreSilverton to spread the local love.
“Each dollar spent locally creates a ripple effect that strengthens our economy, supports local jobs, and helps our small businesses thrive,” Palmer added.
To learn more or see which businesses are participating, visit www.silvertonchamber. org or contact the Silverton Chamber of Commerce at 503-873-5615.
Mt. Angel coat giveaway set for Nov. 28
The Knights of Columbus, Council 1767 in Mt. Angel is hosting a coat giveaway the day after Thanksgiving at the Mt. Angel Community Festhalle, 500 Wilco Hwy. The event runs 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
The program is available for boys and girls from children through teens, with a one coat per child maximum. Those interested in donating coats can do so at the St. Mary Catholic Church parish office on East College Street. There is no deadline for donations, with organizers noting that coats that arrive too late will be used for next year’s giveaway.
Mt. Angel Fire hosting Nov. 23 breakfast
The Mt. Angel Fire District is hosting a fundraising breakfast from 7 to 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 23, at the station at 300 Monroe St.
On the menu are Oktoberfest sausage, pancakes, scrambled eggs, biscuits & gravy, and coffee, juice and milk.
Adults will be charged $7, seniors
$5 and children $4. A $20 package is available for families.
A special fireman’s smoked sausage made by Mt. Angel Sausage Company will be available for sale for $5 for a one-pound package.
All proceeds from the event go to the Volunteer Fire Association.
Elks invite all the Purple Ball for charity
Dining, dancing, holiday fun and holiday giving come together in the Silverton Elks Lodge annual Purple Ball for charity.
“A Night to Sparkle and Shine” Saturday, Dec. 6 is open to all who want to join in a festive holiday party in semi-formal attire. You need not be an Elk to participate.
$579,000 Location, location! Built in 2000, 4 bd, 2.5 ba, 1920 sq. ft. on .21 size lot. Quiet cul de sac. Open floor plan, master on main, newer laminate floors. Unfinished bonus room, large utility room, 10x16’ storage shed. Close to the park/ pool and downtown. 704 Cliff Ct., Silverton. MLS#834874
$746,000 West Salem home with panoramic views of the Cascades and Willamette Valley! Private location. Built in 2002, 2024 sq. ft. 3bd, 2.5 ba on .88 lot. Open floor plan. 32x15’ bonus room. Stainless steel appliances. Nicely upgraded. Fenced
Under Contract 6 LOTS $600,000 TOTAL Rosemary Way lots: 601, 605 & 611 MLS#810425; 615, 619 & 623 MLS#810404. 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. Campsite. Seller will carry a contract. Off of Crooked Finger Rd., Scotts Mills. MLS#822303
sq. ft. High ceiling, large kitchen. 4 farm bldgs. Mature timber. 3999 Timber Trail Rd., Silverton. MLS#818488
Tickets are $50 with proceeds benefiting area food banks.
Dinner is Tri Tip or Parmesan Halibut. Dancing starts at 7 p.m. The lodge is located at 300 High St., Silverton.
There are no sales at the door, so get tickets early by calling 503-873-4567.
Our tree farm is closed to the public for the 2025 harvest season. Unfortunately, our inventory is not large enough to meet demand this year. We hope to see you at our family farm in the coming years.
Tree delivery & set-up service for your home or business!
Let us do the hard work! We’ll bring you a beautiful, freshly cut Douglas, Nordmann or Grand Fir Christmas tree, up to 8 feet tall, set it up for the holidays, then come take it down and haul it away when the season is done. $75 fee covers everything.
You provide the stand.
Call Chuck White for info or to schedule a delivery.
503-580-1258
Thank you for your contiunued support and loyalty!
Something to Celebrate
National honor Hector wins leadership award
By James Day
Long-time Silverton community activist Ken Hector has received a national honor for his work on the board at Chemeketa Community College.
Hector, a former Silverton mayor and councilor, received the 2025 M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The award is the highest national honor the community college association confers.
Hector was selected from among five regional honorees nationwide and received the award during the ACCT Leadership Congress held Oct. 22-25 in New Orleans. The recognition celebrates his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and enduring commitment to student success and equitable access to higher education.
“Ken Hector epitomizes what it means to be a public servant and a community college champion,” Chemeketa President Jessica Howard told Our Town “Chemeketa is absolutely thrilled that Ken’s longstanding service, tremendous dedication, and impactful contributions as a community college board member at the local, state, and national levels has been recognized through this prestigious award. This is a win for Ken, a win for our college, and a win for Oregon.”
A 12-year member of Chemeketa’s Board of Education, Hector has twice served as chair and vice chair and has played a pivotal role in advancing the college’s mission. The college said his leadership was instrumental in the successful passage of Chemeketa’s $140 million bond measure, as well as in championing state and national legislative initiatives that expand access to applied baccalaureate degrees, improve infrastructure, and support workforce development.
The bond measure was an especially tough challenge for the college. The facilities measure was defeated in the 2024 general election, but college officials regrouped, went back to work, and passed a second vote on May 20.
“Passage was critical for us, particularly in light of the failed attempt last year,” Hector told Our Town
about the bond campaign. “Not only will it enable us to make sorely needed infrastructure improvements, it allows us to timely adjust to the everchanging needs of our workforce partners. In turn, it will help us to meet our top priority, ensuring student success.”
When asked about the national award Hector said, “while obviously an incredible honor, it is also an incredibly humbling recognition. In addition, it was quite the surprise, as I was unaware that I had been nominated, which was done very discreetly. Given there are over 6,000 trustees in ACCT, it is hard to comprehend.”
Hector added that “any success I have realized is due in no small part to the Chemeketa family; our excellent leadership team led by President Dr. Jessica Howard, my fellow trustees, our caring and talented faculty and classified staff, (plus all of those who support Chemeketa with their time, talent and treasure). And of course my wife, Darby, who has supported me throughout my Chemeketa journey.” Looking ahead for Chemeketa, Hector noted that “education is fluid and dynamic. With the impact of AI (artificial intelligence), we need to be nimble in order to serve our students, our area employers, and the communities we serve within the boundaries of our three-county-plus district.”
Before joining the Chemeketa Board, Hector served 14 years as Silverton mayor and he and Darby were honored in January by the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce with the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement award for public service. In addition to his mayoral tenure, Hector served on the City Council both before and after his 1993-2008 run as mayor. He has also contributes as a longtime member of the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) Board, where he currently chairs the Legislative Committee, helping guide advocacy efforts for all 17 of Oregon’s community colleges.
Ken Hector SUBMITTED PHOTO
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Something to Celebrate
Honoring sacrifice
By James Day
In the coming weeks signs will go up at all four major entrances to Silverton noting the town has joined the ranks of Purple Heart cities.
Silverton resident and Oregon Department of Forestry employee Brooke Burgess led the campaign, both as a way to honor her late fiance and as a way to honor others in Silverton who have received the honor.
Norm English, a local writer and historian, says there are more than 100 known Purple Heart recipients who live in Silverton.
Burgess spoke before the Silverton City Council about the campaign on Nov. 5 and organized a short reception Nov. 10 at Magnolia Grill, where a lavish lunch and cake were served.
Mayor Jason Freilinger read a proclamation before the council and also delivered short,
How
introductory remarks at Magnolia Grill. The Marine Reconnaissance Foundation is paying for the signs.
Also on hand for the event were family and friends of Burgess and her fiance, Tommy Hartrick, city councilors Elvi Cuellar Sutton, Kyle Palmer, April Newton and Marie Traeger and Silverton Police Chief Todd Engstrom and several department employees and officers.
“On this day, we will stand united to proudly honor the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of military personnel who were wounded or gave their lives in combat,” Burgess said.
“This ceremony is a tribute not only to our Purple Heart recipients but also to the strength of their families and the communities that support them.
The Oregon Garden is Silverton’s own iconic attraction This locally operated nonprofit brings 100,000 visitors from all 50 states and around the world each year
The Garden has achieved 90% debt reduction from 2005 to today with an attainable goal of zero debt and a thriving future
The Andrew H. Ulven Trust is proud to support the Garden and we congratulate the local Oregon Garden Foundation board for their vision and stewardship
One of the signs to be erected at the four main entrances into Silverton. JAMES DAY
Silverton honors Purple Heart recipients
Let’s come together to show our unwavering gratitude.
“It is a privilege to be honoring my late partner Tommy Hartrick and all Purple Heart recipients in this way.”
Burgess noted during her remarks that the event was occurring on the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps. Hartrick served 13 years in the Marines, including 11 overseas deployments.
He earned his Purple Heart when he was shot in the leg while serving as a tank gunner in the Iraqi town of Fallujah.
“He lived a swift and powerful life,” Burgess said.
Hartrick died July 17, 2024, in the Central African Republic of complications from malaria while serving as a contractor. In addition to Burgess, he is survived by his children, Sadie, Kami and Jonah Hartrick.
Mt. Angel, led by former mayor Pete Wall, an Air Force veteran, received Purple Heart status earlier this year and held a ceremony honoring the placement of the first of its seven signs on May 5.
The Purple Heart
The Purple Heart is a U.S. military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military. The award began in 1917 with American entry into World War I. Along with its 1782 forerunner established by Gen. George Washington, the Badge of Military Merit, it has taken the form of a heart made of purple cloth. The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members.
Purple Heart cities
The purpose of being a Purple Heart city is to express gratitude to the sons and daughters of those who were either wounded or killed in combat defending the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans. There are more than 900 Purple Heart locations in the United States, honoring the 1.6 million Purple Heart recipients.
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Elder theft Woman receives 19 months for taking $100K from senior
By Stephen Floyd
A former Silverton woman has been sentenced to over a year-and-a-half in prison for stealing more than $100,000 from her elderly landlady, while an alleged accomplice remains at large.
Joan Renee Anderson-Varner, 62, of Grants Pass, was convicted at trial Sept. 3 in Marion County Circuit Court of aggravated first-degree theft and initiating a false report.
On Sept. 29 she was sentenced to 19 months in prison and three years of post-prison supervision. She is eligible for early release and credit for time served and her earliest possible release date is December of 2026.
Anderson-Varner stole more than $100,000 in cash, jewelry, certificates of deposit and other items on April 26, 2024, from her landlady’s house on the 300 block of Monson Road. According to court records, the victim was in her nineties and was out of town at the time.
Anderson-Varner then fled with the stolen items to a motel in Wilsonville along with an alleged accomplice, a 53-year-old Silverton man who was known to Anderson-Varner. As of press time the man had not been publicly charged in the case.
Anderson-Varner then called 911 from the motel to falsely report both her home and the victim’s had been burglarized, then returned to Silverton to speak with a responding deputy.
The following day she called police from the motel and confessed to the theft and the false report, and said she was coerced by the alleged accomplice under threat of harm.
According to defense counsel, the man allegedly arrived at Anderson-Varner’s residence with a handgun and implied he would harm her if she did not commit the theft.
Due to the age of the victim and the high value of the stolen items, Anderson-Varner was facing a minimum of 16 months in prison. The defendant also had a prior criminal history of misdemeanor assault in Washington. Weighing the standard minimum and the defendant’s criminal history, Judge Jennifer Gardiner chose 19 months in prison.
Anderson-Varner was also ordered by the judge to pay restitution, and a hearing on this matter is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2026.
Pre-trial motions
New details revealed in 2024 Mount Angel murder case
By Stephen Floyd
New details have emerged in a series of motions filed ahead of the murder trial of Agustin Barocio for allegedly killing Brandon Slack in 2024, including a prior altercation between the men.
The motions were filed Nov. 10 in Marion County Circuit Court by both the prosecution and defense to resolve outstanding disagreements over evidence and testimony.
These included a request by the prosecution to introduce hearsay evidence from Slack’s sister of a fight Slack described between himself and Barocio a week before the killing.
In a separate motion the defense challenged Barocio’s indictment for first-degree murder, arguing there was no eyewitness testimony to support the charge. They also challenged the legitimacy of the alleged murder weapon found by police.
A two-week trial is scheduled to begin April 3, 2026, with Barocio facing charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree burglary, unlawful use of a weapon, first-degree kidnapping, felon in possession of a firearm, stalking and menacing.
A hearing to resolve all outstanding pre-trial motions is scheduled for Jan. 13, 2026.
Barocio is represented by public defender Kobin Patterson and private attorney Tiffany Humphrey, while the state is represented by Deputy District Attorney Braden Wolf. The case is assigned to Judge Amy Queen.
Prior altercation
According to charging documents, Barocio, 44, of Mt. Angel, allegedly shot Slack, 42, of Mt. Angel, on Jan. 1, 2024, at an apartment on Pershing Street where Slack lived with Barocio’s ex wife. The motions filed Oct. 27 added clarity to these alleged events including an altercation between Barocio and Slack at the apartment the week before.
According to a motion filed by prosecutors, Slack told his sister of a fight between himself and Barocio on Dec. 24, 2023.
Slack told his sister Barocio came to the apartment uninvited and began a verbal altercation because he was upset at seeing
his ex-wife and Slack together. This escalated into a physical fight after Barocio refused to leave. Slack’s sister told police Slack had injuries to his face and hands, and said he described beating Barocio.
Prosecutors said this incident helps establish a motive for the killing and would help jurors understand the relationship between the two men.
In a separate motion the defense asked to exclude evidence of prior “bad acts” as irrelevant, and asked that a separate hearing be held for any such evidence the prosecution plans to use.
Day of the shooting
Oct. 27 motions also shed light on the alleged events surrounding the shooting. In a motion challenging Barocio’s indictment, the defense summarized the facts of the case as reported by police, stating this was merely a summary and not an endorsement of such facts.
The motion said that shortly before 5:40 a.m., Barocio allegedly entered the apartment while Slack and Barocio’s ex-wife were still in bed. Ring camera footage from a neighbor allegedly showed Barocio enter through the front door carrying what appeared to be a camping chair bag.
The ex-wife awoke to find Barocio in the hallway allegedly holding a .22 rifle. Barocio allegedly shot Slack in the chest, then pointed the gun at his ex-wife and demanded she leave with him.
The Ring camera showed Barocio leaving the apartment with his ex-wife and a rifle in his hand. Barocio allegedly forced his ex-wife into a car and “drove around…for approximately 10 minutes” before returning her to the apartment, said the motion.
The defense did not describe what occurred in the car or Barocio’s alleged purpose for kidnapping then returning the victim. When the ex-wife returned to the apartment she found Slack unconscious in the bathroom and began performing CPR. Hearing a “commotion,” said the defense, her neighbors came to investigate and called 911 at 5:48 a.m.
Responding deputies took over life-saving efforts. After medics arrived at 6:08 a.m. they declared Slack deceased.
Challenged evidence
The defense argued the facts of the case do not support charges of first-degree murder and first-degree burglary. They said, while the ex-wife claims to have locked the door before going to bed, the Ring camera footage does not specifically show how Barocio gained access to the apartment and is not evidence of a break-in.
The defense also said the ex-wife told investigators the lock on the door was broken and worked intermittently, if it all, and she did not even have a key for it.
They also said the ex-wife declined to testify before the grand jury and instead the deputy who interviewed her testified about their conversation.
The defense argued these alleged deficiencies undermine the charge of first-degree burglary, which is attached to the firstdegree murder charge as a killing during the commission of a felony. The defense argued both charges should be dismissed.
In a separate motion the defense asked for leave to introduce evidence suggesting a firearm recovered by police may not have been the murder weapon.
According to the motion, police recovered a .22 casing from the apartment as well as a Mossburg .22 rifle in the bushes outside Barocio’s parents’ residence. When the rifle was test-fired by Oregon State Police, the markings did not match and OSP concluded there was not sufficient evidence that the casings were fired by the same gun.
This method of analysis was recently found to be scientifically invalid by the Oregon Court of Appeals due to inconsistent results between different analysts. The defense motion asked for permission to introduce this evidence regardless through an expert witness, arguing the appeals court’s ruling was likely to be overturned by the Oregon Supreme Court.
Other motions were more routine, such as requests by the defense to bar the use of terms such as “crime scene” and “victim” before the jury, as these presume an illegal act has been committed. In total 14 motions were filed Monday, one by the prosecution and 13 by the defense.
Trial set for 2026 in suit over Juetten stabbing
A trial has been set for next spring in a lawsuit against Marion County by a Silverton-area woman who was injured – and her husband killed –by a felon under county supervision in 2021.
On Nov. 5, a trial date of May 4, 2026, was chosen in Jamilyn Juetten vs Marion County before Polk County Circuit Court Judge Rafael Caso.
The case is being tried before Caso because all Marion County judges declared conflicts of interest as the suit claims alleged wrongdoing by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
A hearing to resolve any pre-trial motions was set for Feb. 11, 2026.
Juetten seeks $8 million for physical and psychological harm suffered during a home invasion at her residence Aug. 13, 2021, at Howell Prairie Road NE and Hazelgreen Road NE. Juetten and husband Travis Juetten were stabbed multiple times by alleged suspect Cody Michael Ray, 30, of Salem.
Ray died by suicide in an unrelated incident Sept. 28, 2021, before he was identified as a suspect.
Ray was on zero-tolerance probation at the time of the attack and the suit claims he had committed multiple alleged probation violations during the weeks beforehand.
The suit claims the county improperly failed to detain Ray after these violations and was negligently responsible for allowing Ray the opportunity to attack the Juettens.
The county claims it cannot be held legally responsible because any decision to or to not detain Ray was within the legal discretion of his probation officer. The county claims qualified immunity and has asked for the suit to be dismissed.
A more comprehensive version of this article was first published at ourtownlive.com.
– Stephen Floyd
Something to Do
Farm to your table Sourcing holiday meals locally
By Melissa Wagoner
When it comes to purchasing ingredients for a holiday gathering, it’s easy to head straight for the grocery store. But this year the vendors of the Silverton Winter Market are hoping more people will consider purchasing much of that food from growers and producers located close to home.
“It would truly make a huge difference,” Vivienne Frankel – the market’s board president and owner of Fluffy Butt Alpacas – said.
“For many of us, this is our only livelihood. Keeping your dollars local means supporting farms and families at eye level. You know where the products are coming from and that they most likely were picked today or canned, baked, etc. the same week.”
And because the Winter Market boasts a diverse variety of vendors, much of what is required for the creation of the typical holiday spread can be found in one place.
“We do specialized cuts like prime rib and brisket, we have rack of lamb, leg of lamb and shoulder steak,” Melanie Fearnside –owner of Scio Farms – said listing some of the holiday specialties she and her husband, Brian, offer. “These are different cuts… that you don’t see in the store.”
They are also from grass-fed and pastureraised animals that did not encounter
Silverton Winter Market
Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N. Church St.
Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
For a full list of vendors and their contact information visit www. silvertonfarmersmarket.com
pesticides or hormones and can be specially ordered, then picked up at at the farm’s Winter Market table.
“We also do microgreens… 14 different varieties,” Fearnside said. “They’re definitely better quality than if you go to the store.”
Stadelman Family Farm’s offers an enormous variety of squash and pumpkins.
“[W]e have acorn squash, spaghetti squash, butternut squash, baking pumpkins, carving pumpkins, gourds and mini pumpkins for decorating,” Nicole Stadelman listed, along with an array of jams, walnuts and filberts fresh from the tree.
“I love to use fresh local stuff because it tastes better,” Stadelman pointed out. “For instance, [when] making pumpkin pie or bread I love to use baking pumpkins that I grew… they taste so much better.”
It’s a conviction Brenda Sparks – who sells shitake, lion’s mane, oyster and chestnut mushrooms, along with fresh baked sourdough bread, bagels and English muffins under the name Farmzilla – shares.
“It’s all very custom,” she said of her baked good, which stem from her own unique recipes and sell out nearly every week.
“Definitely order ahead if you want to be sure to get stuff – at least one week,” she suggested, confirming that Farmzilla also offers free delivery to customers of the Winter Market.
Because encouraging customers to not only purchase food locally, but at the Winter Market itself, where you never know what you might find or who you might see, is important to every vendor there.
“Buying local supports the community but also encourages community growth,” Stadelman pointed out. “It allows us to build relationships with one another.”
And supports the local economy.
“[W]hen consumers choose to spend their money locally, the money mostly stays in the community where the farm or business is,” Mary Bails – the owner of 3 Strands Farm, purveyors of all things lavender, from culinary sprigs to gifts and home décor – said. “We take the money earned and pour it back into the local community so then everyone is able to grow.”
In other words, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Melanie and Brian Fearnside, owners of Scio Farms. COURTESY OF MELANIE FEARNSIDE
One of the many Silverton Winter Market vendors. COURTESY OF VIVIENNE FRANKEL
SkillsUSA Silverton welders take national title
By James Day
The Silverton High SkillsUSA program came back from the annual conference in Atlanta with a national championship
Matthew Bielenberg, Carter Lanz and Nathan Dettwyler, who qualified for the national welding fabrication event by winning the state contest at LinnBenton Community College in Albany, triumphed again at nationals.
It’s a grueling competition, requiring a written test about safety and welding knowledge and a blueprint drawing submitted before the contest about a predesigned project the team develops like an engineer would design and build, and then the actual welding contest.
Students were allowed six hours of work time to fabricate a small excavator. Also, during that time, they met with judges and discussed their blueprints and fielded about 10 minutes of questions about the project they drew up and designed.
Students were required to use multiple welding processes, including oxyacetylene cutting, as well gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and gas tungsten arc
welding (GTAW). They also had to read and follow a cold abutment (CAD) drawing with steps, procedures and welding symbols.
Bielenberg, Lanz and Dettwyler won $1,000 apiece as well as Miller and Lincoln welders worth a combined $2,600.
Several other Silverton individuals and teams took home awards from the event:
Computer Programming: Junior John St. Clair took ninth.
Health Knowledge Bowl: Seniors Jocelyn CrespoHernandez, Kasiah Hart, Bentley Pack, Natalia Vazquez-Trejo combined to place 11th.
Career Pathways Human Services (three-person team): Junior Addie Fergus, Senior Lillie Peterson and Junior Sophie Sadaka finished 13th.
Crime Scene Investigation (three-person team): Juniors Asucena Arango, Rylee Herron and Sam Posegate were 22nd.
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
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MT. ANGEL SCHOOL BOARD VACANCY There is one position open for the Mt. Angel School District Board of Directors, Positions #1. This position will complete the term ending 6/30/2027. This position became vacant 9/15/2025. Qualified applicants must be an elector of the District and must have resided in the District for at least one year prior to the appointment. Monthly regular Board meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Applicants cannot be employees of the District. The deadline for applying is November 24, 2025. Please visit our website to apply, www. masd91.org or reach out to Jill Holland at 503-845-2345.
Silverton’s SkillsUSA welding fabrication team of, from left, Carter Lanz, Nathan Dettwyler and Matthew Bielenberg, took first place at a national competition at the World Congress Center in Georgia. SUBMITTED PHOTO
New leadership
Marty Limbard takes over as Silver Falls YMCA branch manager
By James Day
Marty Limbird has taken over as the branch manager at the Silver Falls YMCA. He replaces Kristi Horner, who stepped away from the position to spend more time with her family.
Limbird is a long-time Silverton resident and fixture, serving as a youth soccer coach and since 2019 as the boys soccer coach at Silverton High.
He also played a key role on a YMCA advisory board that is planning a new facility in town and presented the Y’s proposal to the Silverton City Council.
Limbird will continue his coaching duties with the Foxes. Working on the new facility will be part of his mission as the branch manager.
He also serves as a physical education instructor at Chemeketa Community College, where he started the men’s
soccer program. Is there too much on his plate, YMCA
board chair
Chuck White was asked?
serve Silverton the best I can and move the ball down the field to see about reaching completion for a community recreation center here in Silverton,” Limbird said.
increasingly limited space for massively growing programs and youth sport demands.
YMCA branch manager
Marty
“It’s always amazing how if people are busy and you give them more work, they find a way to get things done,” White told Our Town.
Limbird SUBMITTED
Limbird characterized the issue this way:
“There are inherent challenges in balancing the demands of those roles,” he said, adding that a “team approach” will lead to success, both for himself and the three organizations.
“The director position opening up seemed like an appropriate time to step up to
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“The community has grown tremendously over the past 25 years, but we haven’t added any gym or field space in this city in that time span since the high school was built.
“We are running out of space for family and youth sports and activities across the age continuum,” he added, noting that a “community recreation center would open doors for community gatherings, partner collaborations, and to grow programs to serve our community.
“This sort of project excites me and definitely gives us a unified focus to pull in the same direction toward something of value for all. “
White said that Limbird “has the communication skills and experience to get our message across and he has a big heart for kids. It seems like a perfect fit.”
White also praised the contributions of Horner, who took the branch manager job on an interim basis more than three years ago.
“She took it on and went full steam ahead,” White said, adding that “she did an amazing job of building the membership without a home base.”
The new home base looms as a major goal for Limbird and the YMCA, which White said needs to construct a new community recreation center to resolve the issue of
“I will continue to champion the mission of new community-centered facilities to meet the needs to serve our community and strengthen families. We will work toward a gathering and recreation hub for Silverton and the surrounding region. We can do this!” Limbird said .
Since Limbird made his presentation before the City Council on July 2, the YMCA has eliminated all sites that it had been considering near the Oregon Garden because of prohibitive infrastructure costs. Also out is the BrucePac site on North First Street, which they have concluded is too large for the Y’s needs and would need extensive remodeling.
The Y is continuing to consider industrial property on Eska Way, but no firm plans have been announced. The Y and the city have a memorandum of agreement in place to work cooperatively on the project.
In the meantime the Y has purchased the Crossfit building on Lewis Street and plans to use it for programs such as pilates as well as a teen center. A donation from the Larry and Jeanette Epping Family Foundation paid for the purchase of the building and the Y received backing on Sept. 9 from the Silverton Planning Commission, which approved the conditional use permit that the YMCA needed to move forward.
Nothing but gratitude Friedrick leaves leadership role at Oak Street
By Melissa Wagoner
For the past 14 years, since John Friedrick was just a teenager, a substantial portion of his life has included Oak Street Church.
“I kind of fell into it,” Friedrick said. “While I was in college, I needed a job and they hired me to work in the church office… my weekly duties gradually expanded to include more pastoral duties.…” Including associate pastor for two and a half years and lead pastor for the past eight.
It’s a role Friedrick has enjoyed both because Oak Street Church was so different from the churches he attended in his youth and because the members of the church were willing to embrace a different way of worshiping – including an “open sharing” element Friedrick introduced in 2020 – that welcomed dialogue, curiosity and even disagreement.
“At Oak Street I encountered folks who were willing to admit they didn’t have everything figured out,” Friedrick described. “They were willing to embrace the mystery we encounter in life and to grow in relationship with other people.”
It’s an experience Friedrick still cherishes and hopes to continue taking part in even as he begins a new chapter in his life, as the executive director of Stone Soup Corvallis – a nonprofit providing hot meals to people in need.
“I’m excited to apply some of my experience with Oak Street’s community meal to their work,” Friedrick said, “and to focus on
Reed Alden Munson, age 69, of Silverton passed away peacefully on Oct. 20, 2025. Reed was born April 7, 1956, to Alden and Adele Munson in Menomonie, Wisconsin. He grew up in West Linn, Oregon, as one of nine children and graduated from West Linn High School in 1974.
Reed started college at Eastern Oregon University and then graduated from Oregon State University in 1978. He worked as a woodshop teacher at Newberg High School and later as a Meter Reader for PGE.
Reed was always very active. He was, according to him, an all-star on his slow pitch softball team, which he played on for many years. He was an avid adventurer who enjoyed white-water kayaking, bungee jumping, and bus hopping through New Zealand. He spent his summers at the lake jet skiing and riding bikes around the lake.
Reed loved golfing and played weekly with his close friends. He also loved camping in the outdoors, fishing, crabbing, smoking cigars, woodworking, yelling at the referees at his children’s sport games, and spending time with his family.
Reed married Sue Kuschnick in 1991 and they moved to Silverton and had four amazing children. Reed and his brother Craig built the house his children were raised in. He loved cooking with his kids and teaching them strong sports fundamentals. He never missed one of his children’s games and even watched most of their practices.
Reed is preceded in death by his parents, Alden and Adele, and brothers Craig and Eric Munson. He is survived by his ex-wife and mother of his children, Sue Munson; his beautiful children Austin and his wife Olivia, Logan, Hannah, and Tanner Munson; his siblings and their spouses
caring for vulnerable people in a time when vulnerable people tend to be vilified.”
“What he’s doing now sounds like such a wonderful opportunity,” Oak Street Church board member Sarah Case said of Friedrick’s departure.
“It’s such a great fit for his skills and passions… And, if you think about it, 14 years on staff… is a really long time to serve in any organization. I think that collectively, as a board and as a community, we feel really lucky to have had John’s kindness and humility and thoughtfulness as a leader helping guide us for all of those years.”
Currently led by members of the board, who have stepped in to fill Friedrick’s role temporarily, Oak Street Church is continuing to hold weekly services and the Monday Community Meal.
“The board is not in a hurry to make any sudden movements,” Case explained.
“We are very purposefully taking some time… to discern together as a board and as a larger community what Oak Street needs… in terms of leadership and where that might take us.”
In the meantime, Friedrick – who still considers the members of Oak Street Church his community – is looking back with nothing but gratitude for the role the church played in his life.
“It was a path for me to connect to the larger community of the city,” he said.
“To anyone who played a role in my life these last years, thank you.”
Brian and Pam Nelson-Munson, Kurt and Julia Munson, Drew and Prudy Munson, Kris and Philip Johnson, Maylee Oddo, and Marylinn Munson; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Celebration of Life will be on Monday, Nov. 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Vanderbeck Family Farm in Silverton, Oregon. All are welcome to join. In lieu of flowers, please bring your favorite stories of Reed. The family would like to thank everyone for all their love and support. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Philip Thomas Kelley July 19, 1946 - Oct. 17, 2025
Reed Alden Munson April 7, 1956 - Oct. 20, 2025
Carol Vee Belinfante June 6, 1942 - Oct. 21, 2025
Robert Lawrence Gould Sept. 3, 1941 - Oct. 23, 2025
Alice Elizabeth Partanen Sept. 14, 1941 - Oct. 23, 2025
George A. Larsen Oct. 15, 1932 - Oct. 31, 2025
Harriette Ramona Resseger June 7, 1937 - Nov. 1, 2025
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.
local funeral chapels serving Mt. Angel since 1919 & Silverton
Mildred Margaret Schmidt Aug. 25, 1929 - Nov. 2, 2025 www.ungerfuneralchapel.com
John Friedrick in front of Oak Street Church marquee. SARAH CASE
Let’s dance
By Melissa Wagoner
Line dancing and square dancing aren’t all that similar in origin or in practice.
Square dancing, which was brought to the U.S. from Europe by settlers who enjoyed dances like the Quadrille, utilizes a caller who gives the dancers instructions.
Line dancing, originating from folk dances like the contra, relies on the dancer to memorize a set of prescribed steps. But what is the same about these two dances is the way they unite people.
“[There’s] nothing like moving your body to music with a community of fellow dancers all learning and growing together,” Loda Bales – who has been line dancing for the past 30 years and teaching professionally for 14 – said.
“It’s social,” Karyn Buchheit – a member of Silver City Squares – echoed. “It’s a good way to meet friends.
And both types of dance are experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
“In my opinion, people are craving face-toface social experiences,” Bales explained.
“We spent too much time forced to stay home during the Covid years…”
Additionally, the integration of new, modern forms of music into both square and line dancing has piqued the interest of a new, younger crowd.
“The music can vary – country, 50s and 60s, even rap,” Buchheit confirmed. She has been dancing since fourth grade.
“When we do a pattern and not a call any music can be used… It’s more fun to add [new music] and goof around…” And there have been other changes as
Social dancing makes a comeback
well, most notably in the strict dress code once associated with both forms of dance.
“Used to be, the guys wore slacks or jeans with a western style shirt and a tie or bolo,” Buchheit recalled. “The girls wore petticoats. But the viewpoint has gotten more: we want you to be there and dance.”
Similarly Bales said line dancing has become popular with a diverse community of dancers, not just those living on farms.
Now, “line dancing is a community of folks from all backgrounds,” she said, “enjoying music and socializing.” No Wranglers or cowboy hats required.”
Similarly, participation in line dancing –even lessons – can be affordable. Those living in the Silverton area can even try them out for free by attending one of Bales’ “DYAO All-Request Dance Party and Line Dance Lessons” at Ollie’s Wine and Whiskey Bar.
“The lessons taught at Ollie’s will include a beginner lesson as well as an improver lesson in an attempt to meet the dancer’s skill range…” Bales said.
And all ages are welcome.
“We have dancers who are in their 90s and still dancing,” Buchheit pointed out. Adding, “Silver City is a family club.”
It’s one where a weekend of activity –there is a Friday and Saturday dance held each month – is an inexpensive way to spend time together in community.
“For years my husband and I would go out with the kids for $20,” Buchheit said.
“It’s one of the cheapest family activities you can do… and most clubs also have a low lesson rate.”
Silver City Squares
Waldo Hills Community Club 1267 Cascade Highway NE, Silverton
For more information about community dances or lessons visit the Silver City Squares Facebook page.
DYAO
(Dance Your A** Off)
All-Request Dance Party and Line Dance Lessons
Ollie’s Wine and Whiskey Bar 207 East Main Street, Silverton
Dec. 19 and, beginning in January, the second and fourth Fridays, from 7 p.m. to close.
Thanksgiving benefit dance workout set for Silverton 50+ Center
For the 35th time Jazzercise instructor Andi Morgan will be holding a Thanksgiving moring benefit workout for Silverton Area Community Aid.
“I try to offer alternate moves to enhance the steps for the skilled dancer and offer options to make the dance easier for the
beginner or those having a tough time. So, lessons are great for absolute beginners, beginners, seniors, those who want to be more social, those wanting some exercise and those who want to be part of a dance community.”
Dancing of any kind is a fantastic way to improve health.
“It can lower blood pressure, help with balance and coordination and burn calories,” Bales said. “Line dancing can boost memory retention and can reduce stress and just makes you feel good…”
But to enjoy the benefits, you must give it a go.
This year’s event will be in the Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St. at 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27. It is a one-hour dance cardio and strength training workout.
Admission is $10 or 5 food items. All proceeds go to SACA. There are donors who have pledged to mtach the cash receipts from the class.
Participants are encouraged to bring a towel and water bottle.
There is no pre-registration required and all ages are welcome. Anyone under 12 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
“This is a way to truly do something for the community while doing something healthy for oneself. Burn some calories before the feast,” Morgan said.
“The energy at the event is always phenomenal.”
Silver City Squares competing. COURTESY OF KARYN BUCCHEIT
Line dancing at Ollie’s Whiskey and Wine Bar. COURTESY OF LODA BALES
Playoff heartbreak
The Silverton High girls and boys squads both advanced to the Class 5A quarterfinals before falling in an unusual doubleheader on Nov. 8 at Summit of Bend. The luck of the bracket placed both matches at Summit.
The Foxes’ girls went through a second consecutive unbeaten Mid-Willamette Conference season at 8-0-1 and blasted Hood River Valley 7-1 in the first round of playoffs, but fell 3-1 to Summit to finish 13-2-2.
The boys clinched a playoff spot on the last day of the regular season via a clutch 3-1 home win against Woodburn and then vanquished Hood River Valley in a dramatic penalty kick shootout in the first round. Summit, however, blanked the Foxes in the quarterfinals, 3-0. Silverton finished 8-3-6 and placed Arye Harrington and Xander Gragert on the all-MWC first team, Aden Bradford, Michael Doyle and goalkeeper Henry Briggs on the second team and Alex Flores and Fynn Fischer on the honorable mention list.
Cross Country: Silverton junior Katelyn
Dan Wilgus Owner
Buchnoff advanced to the Class 5A cross country championships in Eugene and finished 31st in the 5-kilometer race in 19:55.9. Earlier, Buchoff finished fifth in 19:13.49 to lead the Foxes to fourth place in the district meet in Monmouth. The Foxes’ boys squad finished fourth at district, led by Carter Bielemeier, who was 12th in 17:14.41.
Kennedy’s boys finished eighth at the district meet in Lebanon, led by Bohden Sowa (8th, 17:46.39) and Myles Eder (19th, 18:41.1). The Trojans’ girls squad was ninth as a team with Ariana Salazar finishing 25th in 22:56.68 and Kaia Guerroro taking 30th in 23:06.80.
Redistricting: The OSAA committee that reviews classifications and districts is all
but through with its work for the 2026-30 cycle. The panel has decided to stick with the 6-class system that currently exists after considering a 5-class model. The committee still has Nov. 17 and Dec. 1 meetings pending plus the final action by the Executive Board and Delegate Assembly, but here is how things are looking right now:
Silverton will remain in Class 5A’s MidWillamette Conference along with Corvallis, Crescent Valley, Dallas, Lebanon, North Salem, South Albany and West Albany. Central will move to Class 4A.
Kennedy will be in Class 2A’s Tri-River Conference for all sports except football, along with Colton, Delphian, Regis, Santiam, Sheridan, St. Paul and Western Christian. Football districts for the Foxes and Trojans will be determined by a separate committee in January.
Volleyball: Silverton concluded a 9-11 season with a 3-1 loss (16-25, 25-11, 25-18, 25-11) against Summit in the first round of the Class 5A playoffs. The Foxes tied
for fifth in the Mid-Willamette at 7-7 and received an at-large playoff berth because of their No. 12 OSAA rankings. Central, which tied Silverton for fifth, also received an at-large bid as the MWC accounted for six of the 16 playoff teams. South Albany won the 5A title for the second year in a row, with Crescent Valley taking third and West Albany sixth.
Kennedy made a late-season run to earn its way into the 2A playoffs. The Trojans won their final four regular-season games and then bounced Western Christian and Regis in the Tri-River Conference playoffs to advance to the final 16. No. 2 Trinity Lutheran then eliminated No. 15 Kennedy 3-0 in the first round. The Trojans, 14-11 overall, placed Grace Traeger on the TriRiver first team, with Charlee Traeger and Jissel Garza earning second-team slots and Brianna Traeger receiving honorable mention.
Winter Dates: Basketball, swimming and wrestling are gearing up. The first OSAAsanctioned practice can be held Nov. 17, with the first contest Dec. 3.
Over the years I’ve thought of several pieces of advice I would give to my younger self, that young mom, just starting out, doing the best she could with the information she had at the time.
I wouldn’t make any tremendous changes. There are no dire words of warning I would impart, just a few little tweaks, a nudge here and there. Like when it comes to purchasing a diaper bag (inexpensive is fine), clothing (second hand is ideal for someone who grows so fast), or shoes and outerwear (always purchase new because used ones rarely hold up).
But when it comes to purchasing a stroller… that is when I would sit myself down for a talk.
“Spend the money,” I would say. Because, while I walk a lot now, back then, when my first daughter was born and we only had the car my husband took to work, I walked even more. And because I didn’t know inexpensive strollers are inexpensive for a reason, I went through
strollers like some people go through shoes. Granted, I used and abused them. Transporting, not just my daughter, but my groceries and sometimes my dog.
When my second daughter was born, I used it to haul around two children (though I wouldn’t recommend it) by balancing my youngest on the handlebars. Don’t worry, I never let go and they both lived to tell the tale.
So, while I may have originally believed I was saving money by spending so little on that first stroller (which turned into the next stroller and the next…) looking back, I realize I more than made up for it in replacements, parts and tires. In fact, I
purchased so many tires, so often that Jason Franz, the original owner of Fall Line, stocked an extra rugged brand just for me.
“So, spend the money on the front end,” I would tell my frugal, younger self. “Buy top of the line with extra tread because it will save you from throwing out a lot of strollers – and maybe even losing that wheel on the railroad tracks by James Street.”
And you can save money elsewhere. Like by not purchasing that crib you never used for anything but storage. Or not buying those dolls no one wanted but you still thought they should have. Or by never buying anything that needed to be dry
cleaned (because you won’t do it), or washed on delicate (because you hate that), or scrubbed with an extra soft sponge (because you won’t do that either and then you’ll have to get rid of the pan).
It’s taken me years, but I think I’ve finally learned that nothing should enter our house that can’t be cleaned with steel wool, thrown in the washing machine or sprayed with a hose.
While I may not have known it when I was just starting out, we’re a rough and tumble bunch who sometimes use the back of the couch as a balance beam, scarves as leashes for stuffed animals and pots and pans for real, everyday cooking. And while I may still not know everything about life, I have discovered a few things, namely: strollers need to be durable, stuff is meant to be used, and life is meant to be lived.
Santa Cares
Private wooded getaway.
Lovingly updated home amid 4.27 acres of wooded privacy. 20284 El Romar Dr. Call to make this “getaway” your home. Deborah Carr: 503-989-5727
Do you or someone you know need help affording gifts for the holidays? Join us the annual Free Shopping Event! Saturday, Dec.13,12-4 p.m.
1030 N. First St. Silverton In the SACA building
All are welcome!
Pride • Integrity • Respect • Loyalty •
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 Silverton High School Student Marissa Schacher Marissa is being recognized for exemplifying the value; to Thrive.
Marissa is thriving at school, contenuously growing over her years at SHS. She is a dedicated student and has become a wonderful leader both in and out of the classroom. She is caring individual, who lifts those up around her as she betters heself. Marissa represents what it means to be a fox!
3BR, 2BA home offers an open floor plan designed for both comfort and entertaining. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, pantry, and plenty of workspace. The spacious primary suite includes a walk-in closet and full bath, while all bedrooms are generously sized. Enjoy gatherings in the great room with a cozy gas fireplace, hosting dinner in the formal dining or step outside to the pergola-covered patio for relaxing, or side patio around a fire. Call Becky at ext. 313 (WVMLS#834250)
#T2901 COUNTRY LIVING $760,000
Country living in Pratum! 3 bed, 3 bath, 2792 sq ft split-level on 1.09 acres at the end of a dead-end street. Open concept, living room off kitchen plus large family room on lower floor. Large backyard, paved area, garden, fruit & nut trees (cherry, pear, apple, plum, walnut). Deck off of dining area. Spacious shop with multiple bays, RV parking, and living space above—dual living potential. Pratum Elementary and Silverton HS. Room to spread out with convenience to town! Call today! Call Kirsten at ext. 326 (WVMLS#831900)
#T2868 CREEKSIDE GETAWAY 2 BR, 2 BA 2029 sqft, 1.48 acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $1,390,000 (WVMLS#833486)
#T2877 BUILD YOUR OWN 3 BR, 1 BA 1080 sqft, 9.47 acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $400,000 (WVMLS#830242)
#T2894 SILVERTON ACREAGE ESTATE 4 BR, 3.5 BA 3804 sqft, 3.02 acres. Silverton. Call Michael at ext. 314 $895,000 (WVMLS#830085)
#T2895 PRIVATE LOCATION 3 BR, 3.5 BA 2566 sqft 1.52 acres Silverton. Call Meredith at ext. 324, Ryan at ext. 322 $916,700 (WVMLS#829660)
NEW — #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)
NEW — #T2911 MONMOUTH HORSE LOVERS DREAM 3 BR, 1.5 BA 1832 sqft 5 Acres Call Becky at ext. 313 $795,000 (WVMLS#834926)
#T2890 SELLER CONCESSION AVAILABLE $589,000
Use concessions for closing costs, or a rate buy-down for lower payments. Home has open floor plan, recently eplaced upper decking. Lower level has paver patio. Vaulted great room, large BR suite on main. Recent upgrades include: new carpet, LVP flooring, granite & quartz counter tops, sprinkler system, hi-eff. HVAC, whole-home surge protection, solar panels. Located on east side of Silverton on quiet/low traffic street, short distance to downtown. Call Michael at ext. 314 (WVMLS#830000)
$1,825,000
Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, this passive solar 2BR, 1.5BA home with spectacular kitchen separated from living/dining areas by floor to ceiling fireplace, all facing a large spring-fed pond surrounded by trees providing a private, peaceful setting for ducks and geese to gather. The remaining upstairs area has another 2 baths and multiple family/ bedroom areas roughly framed allowing buyer to finish according to their needs. Sellers will carry LSC with monthly payments at no interest. Call Chuck at ext. 325 (WVMLS# 834432)
#T2901 COUNTRY LIVING 3 BR, 3 BA 2792 sqft. Call Kirsten at ext. 326 $760,000 (WVMLS#831900)
#T2905 SCOTTS MILLS 2-ACRE SITE Call Chuck at ext.
