The MC Lamb & Wool Show comes to Turner on Saturday, June 6. Baby lamb @ filedimage / 123RF.COM
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By Stephen Floyd
Staff reduction, shifting roles to cover $1.2 million funding gap
The North Santiam School District (NSSD) is cutting back on staffing and reassigning other roles to reduce next year’s budget by $1.18 million amid rising costs and decreased enrollment.
According to a May 14 budget proposal for the 2026-27 school year, the district is combating rising PERS costs and increased operational expenses, while enrollment has yet to recover post-COVID.
The budget projects general fund revenue of $34.8 million, up slightly from $33.9 million this school year. This includes a projected $1.43 million in financial reserves at the end of next school year.
The proposal would reduce expenses by cutting all three assistant director positions at the district office, two fulltime teachers at Stayton High School, and a part-time middle school teacher at Mari-Linn School. The district would also reassign 10 different positions between various schools and grade levels to further balance expenses.
The district is also cutting back on new curriculum, professional development and discretionary spending, among other budget-reducing measures.
The proposed budget was approved May 14 by the district Budget Committee. The NSSD Board will hold a hearing June 11 at 5:30 p.m., prior to its regular meeting
at 6 p.m., to gather input and then potentially vote on the budget.
In a statement to Our Town, district spokesperson Emily Pelletier said the district’s goal is to “minimize the impact on staff and students while ensuring the long-term financial stability of the school district.
“We know that news of budget reductions and adjustments can cause concern. We are striving to make adjustments that honor the needs of our K-12 students and staff now and in the years to come,” said Pelletier.
NSSD is among several districts throughout Oregon bracing for cuts next school year due to a variety of challenges, not the least of which include rising PERS contributions.
In 2024, investment accounts related to PERS underperformed, and districts depending on those accounts had to absorb the difference. While the average increase was 1.5% statewide, NSSD will see its PERS obligations rise from from 4.9% to 22% by 2028.
Total PERS obligations in 2026-27 are projected at $5.16 million.
At the same time, the district expects a decline in enrollment, with 2015 students projected for the start of the school year, compared to 2,070 students in October of 2025.
Election roundup
Stayton Charter amendment passing
Voters have approved a series of amendments to the Stayton City Charter that would make the mayor a voting member of the City Council and transfer certain mayoral duties to the council.
Measure 24-519 was passing with 52.73% approval according to the latest May 19 election results published by Marion County.
The changes would allow the mayor to vote with the rest of the council, and would remove their power to veto council actions. The council would also assume the hiring and management of the City Manager, and would directly fill council vacancies, among other amendments.
Primary results will be certified by June 25. The changes take effect July 1.
Stayton Fire levy fails
An operations levy to support staffing at the Stayton Fire District received 52.06% opposition in the May 19 election, according to the latest results from Linn and Marion counties.
The levy would have raised property taxes by $0.18 per
Enrollment has fluctuated since the COVID-19 pandemic, falling from 2,283 in 2019 to 2,068 by 2021, a decrease of 9.4 percent. Enrollment recovered to 2,099 in 2022 then fell to 2,004 in 2023, an overall loss of 12.2 percent since before the pandemic.
Pelletier said the district will keep a close eye on enrollment going forward, “adjusting [the budget] responsibly” as needed. The district said the loss of even a few students can equate to an entire teacher’s salary, which becomes difficult to adjust for in smaller schools with just one teacher per grade level.
While the district is reconciling a tight budget, officials are looking at a possible facilities bond proposal in the next couple of years.
In December of 2025, a district-wide facility assessment was conducted, and a citizen committee has been formed to update the district’s Long-Range Facilities Master Plan. Based on the outcome of this process, the board may propose a general obligation bond to update and repair certain buildings.
A current bond of roughly $1.24 per $1,000 of assessed property value was passed by voters in 2012 is set to expire in 2033. The bond raised $22.85 million to address deferred maintenance, safety and security upgrades, and expansion of class space.
Mixed results for local bonds and levies
$1,000 of assessed value to account for increased costs related to salaries, healthcare and retirement. An existing levy supports nine full-time firefighters/EMTs and will expire in June of 2027.
Fire Chief Jay Alley said the district board will review options during its June 8 regular meeting including a potential follow-up measure for November. He thanked those who supported the measure and those who voted in the election, and said community input on the matter is welcome.
Without the levy funding, the district may no longer be able to employ its full-time staff and would depend more heavily on volunteers. This could result in longer response times and an inability to respond to all calls for service.
Sublimity passes fire levy
An equipment levy for the Sublimity Rural Fire Protection District has passed with 59.72% support, according to the latest May 19 election results published by Marion County. The bond will raise roughly $2.2 million through a tax rate of roughly $0.30 per $1,000 of assessed property value over 15 years to replace aging emergency response vehicles.
Fire Chief Alan Hume said the district is “grateful for the support of the community,” and that newer vehicles will help provide “reliable emergency response and protection for our community for years to come.”
The new bond replaces a bond of $0.28 per $1,000 expiring this year.
Cascade facility bond passing
A $30 million facilities bond for the Cascade School District was passing with 51.72% approval, according to the latest May 19 election results published by Marion County.
The bond would improve aging and outdated buildings, including renovation of the 3-5 grade building at Aumsville Elementary School.
Superintendent Darin Drill said, while the vote was “still very close,” the district was “cautiously optimistic” and grateful for voter support.
“In this difficult economic climate, we are so grateful for voters who support our amazing students at Cascade,” said Drill.
If the bond passes, the district would also receive a $10.2 million state grant for building improvements, bringing total project funds to $40.2 million.
Something to Think About AI in schools
By Melissa Wagoner
Teachers and students are learning to navigate a new world
There is little doubt artificial intelligence (AI) is having an impact on education, but because the technology is relatively new and changing all the time, exactly what that impact is and how educators can best navigate it is still uncertain.
“In many ways, AI can be a helpful tool for both students and teachers,” Jamie McCarty, principal at Stayton High School, said.
“It can give students quicker feedback, help them practice skills they may be struggling with, and provide extra support when they need it. For teachers, AI can help with things like creating lessons, reviewing data, or generating ideas for classroom activities. When used the right way, AI can help teachers spend more time doing what they do best – working directly with students and creating meaningful learning experiences.”
It’s an opinion Megan Clark, the English Language Arts teacher at John F Kennedy High School in Mt. Angel agrees with – at least in part.
“I find value in it when I have unit plans and need to modify them for the different learning needs of students,” she said. “Because I have to make four different versions of my learning plans and when you have an immense workload it can be helpful, like having an assistant.”
But when it comes to her students’ use of AI, she views it as more hindrance than help.
“For me, the developmental stuff is the most concerning,” Clark said. “Reliance on technology can have hidden dangers.”
The most obvious, according to McCarty – who is also aware of AI’s darker side – “is making sure students are still doing their own work and truly learning the material, rather than relying on technology to complete assignments for them.”
It’s an issue Clark deals with on an almost daily basis and one she – in her fifth year of teaching – was not prepared for when she left college.
“It’s like a whole new world out here,” she admitted. “For me it started to be concerning when I realized it could produce long-form content and adjust its voice to become more human.”
That happened about 18 months ago, according to Clark, who noted that, since then, she has had to make changes to her lesson plans and syllabus that ensure students are not only authoring their own papers but learning the required material as well.
“The terrain is constantly changing under my feet,” she said. “But I want students to produce their own work and think independently.”
That means utilizing tools she has never used before, namely software that allows teachers to not only check their students’ work for AI generated content, but watch them work as well.
“I can see every key stroke from start to finish,” she shared. “But it feels like I’m encroaching on the writing process and I don’t like that.”
Instead, she has chosen to assign more in-class, long-
hand writing projects.
“Once it becomes the norm, they get used to it,” she said patting the enormous stack of papers on her desk. It’s not a perfect solution, but it has helped.
“I still have students who panic generate with AI,” she said. But she speculates that reaction is less a symptom of AI and more a reaction to the pressure students feel to get perfect grades.
“Students are… in this space that learning is scary,” she pointed out. “That’s not how we want it to be but that’s inherent. So, AI [becomes] a security blanket.”
And the lessons her students would have gained from failure are avoided, which Clark says is a real disservice.
“Because that’s how we learn,” she explained. “Students turn something in and say, ‘It’s a pile of garbage.’ But I can see them and that they tried. And it’s good to sit with that discomfort. That’s important.”
As is creativity, which Clark says is another victim of AI dependence.
“Every year I do Macbeth with my sophomores,” Clark said. “I have them take it and make it something new… the goal is to be creative and have fun… But last year I noticed there was a big jump in AI generated scripts… It was really disappointing. I put it on my syllabus now – no AI.”
Even so, Clark knows she will need to continue developing ways to encourage her students to learn independently, a mission McCarty shares.
“Our goal at Stayton High School will always be to help students learn how to use tools like this responsibly while continuing to build the work ethic, problem-solving skills, and creativity they will need for their future,” he said.
The question will continue to be, how?
RAHMA ABDELRAHMAN, CC0, VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Merger delay Hospital officials fear comment period may slow process
By James Day
State officials have announced that they plan to seek public comment on the proposed merger of Santiam Hospital & Clinics and Salem Health.
Santiam Hospital & Clinics officials were sharply critical of the move, telling Our Town that it could affect how quickly the deal is approved amid significant operational changes that the merger requires.
“Moving into comprehensive review was not the outcome Santiam Hospital & Clinics was seeking,” Melissa Baurer, the hospital’s executive director for community development told Our Town “It significantly extends an already urgent timeline for our organization and the community we serve.”
The two non-profit health care entities announced plans to merge on Jan. 20. Under the terms of the agreement Salem Health will assume responsibility for all of Santiam Hospital’s debt and add an infusion of $35 million. Santiam Hospital officials say the deal will help the hospital and its clinics expand.
The Oregon Health Authority, the agency charged with reviewing the proposed merger, announced May 11 that it is broadening its analysis of the proposal by seeking public comment.
THE OHA’s Health Care Market Oversight (HCMO) program is conducting a comprehensive review of the merger plan to determine how it might impact health care in Oregon, OHA officials said. Per state law, the OHA must approve the transaction for it to move forward.
OHA officials said in a press release that they completed an initial, preliminary review on May 5, and concluded that a more detailed, comprehensive review was needed. Comprehensive reviews can take up to 180 days,although the exact date that OHA will complete this review is uncertain. The two hospitals have been working under a projected deadline of Sept. 30 to complete the regulatory process.
The OHA said it is especially interested in hearing from patients, providers and employers and health plan purchasers that have experience with either health system. To comment, email hcmo.info@oha.oregon.gov, call 503-945-6161, or use the transaction’s online comment form at tinyurl. com/2vk3x8ys.
Franny White, a public affairs specialist with the OHA, told Our Town that the public comment is necessary because the merger “could have substantial impacts on health care in Marion County. Per state law, OHA’s Health Care Market Oversight program reviews proposed transactions to make sure they don’t hinder Oregonians’ ability to obtain quality,
affordable and equitable health care.”
During the comprehensive review, White added, “the OHA will conduct more detailed analyses of how the transaction will affect where people receive health care, the type of health care that is available, how much people and insurers pay for care, and whether the transaction will have different impacts for different groups of people. OHA expects to request more information from Salem Health and Santiam to support those analyses.”
White said there is no firm deadline for the public comment but noted that the sooner public feedback is received the quicker it can be taken into consideration for the review.
Santiam Hospital & Clinics officials have said throughout the merger process that they hope the OHA can render its final approval by Sept. 30. The decision to seek public comment jeopardizes that target deadline, Baurer said.
“This added delay creates real challenges for a small, independent rural hospital that must move forward quickly to sustain and strengthen services and protect long-term access to care,” she said.
“Santiam Hospital & Clinics has been proactive and transparent throughout this process, engaging the community through more than 40 forums, including town halls, staff discussions, and partner meetings, to ensure voices were heard and concerns were addressed. This extended timeline introduces real risk for our patients and community. Santiam must transition its electronic health record system and there is no viable path to continue operating that system independently.”
Bauer added that “delays in approval directly compress the time needed for planning, implementation, and training, raising the risk of disruption to care delivery.”
She said that the hospital will continue to work toward that Sept. 30 completion date. “We remain committed to working collaboratively through the comprehensive review process, and we strongly encourage an efficient review timeline from Oregon Health Authority (and the) HCMO that reflects the urgency and potential impact to patient care in our community.”
Fire funding Agencies get grants for seasonal firefighters
By Stephen Floyd
Fire districts in the Santiam area will have extra support this wildfire season after receiving state grants for additional staffing.
On May 1, the Oregon State Fire Marshal announced $6 million in grants statewide to 180 agencies, each receiving up to $35,000.
Local awardees included Aumsville, IdanhaDetroit, Lyons, Scio, Stayton and Sublimity.
The grants can be used for a variety of purposes with the goal of increasing the availability of firefighters during wildfire season. This can include seasonal firefighting positions, increased hours for existing staff, resources to support additional volunteers, and expenses related to the administration of a larger workforce.
The grants cannot be used to hire permanent personnel or support existing staffing expenses, and cannot be used for equipment purchases and maintenance, among other restrictions.
The funds can be applied until Oct. 31.
Stayton and Sublimity, as they have in years past, will “team up” with regard to using the grant. The two positions that each agency will hire will be part of a “staffing pool” that can be tapped by either agency, Stayton Fire Chief Jay Alley told Our Town
Alley said the primary responsibility of those hired for the $20 per hour positions will be to staff brush rigs for wildland operations, but “we can use them for other responses.”
Alley said that most agencies try to hire local people for the summer jobs, often from volunteer lists. The closer the new hires live or work to the stations, the quicker the
response times.
Alley also noted that the state-funded program is not connected with Measure 24-521, the continuation and expansion of the district’s local option property tax levy which failed on the May 19 ballot.
Stayton Fire includes stations in Stayton, Maroon, Mehama and Elkhorn.
Scio Fire Chief Kyle White told Our Town that some additional general funds will allow the agency to stretch its state grant a bit. The district’s board is spending general funds that will allow Scio to start the new hires early and keep them later. The grant funds two positions from July 1 through Sept. 23, but the board action means Scio will have folks on hand starting in June and ending in October.
State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said the grant program has been “a gamechanger” since being established in 2022. She said extra staffing in local agencies has helped reduce response times and kept many wildfires from growing into more widespread disasters.
“The Oregon fire service has been able to prevent fires from escalating to much larger, more costly regional or statewide responses,” said Ruiz-Temple.
This year’s wildfire season is expected to be challenging due to a dry winter, and the fire marshal’s office said “wildfire seasons are longer and more intense than ever.” They encouraged residents to do what they can to help such as creating defensible spaces around homes and observing fire bans when in effect.
– James Day contributed to this report.
Something to Celebrate
80th annual event
Full house for chamber awards luncheon
Santiam Ballet Academy was the small business winner.
By James Day
The Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce honored a series of individuals, businesses and organizations on April 30 at its 80th awards program.
A full house of approximately 170 people filled the Foothills Church for the luncheon, which was catered by The Hickory Spoon.
“Wow!” said Denise Busch after winning the Distinguished Service Award. “Thank you for this incredible honor. It is a moment I will always cherish.”
Busch was honored because she “shows up and she shows up again and again,” said presenter Melissa Baurer of Santiam Hospital & Clinics. Baurer cited Busch’s work on COVID-19, the service integration program, the hospital foundation, the Santiam Teen Center and Stayton Rotary.
Auto & Repair and North Santiam Funeral Service.
Large Business Award: Roth’s Fresh Markets. Longtime employee Barb Nobles accepted the honor for the regional grocery outlet. Also nominated were KeyBank and Les Schwab Tire Center.
New Business: 505 The Men’s Collective for its eclectic mix of apparel, sports and hobby items that has changed
“Her impact is felt across the community,” Baurer said. Also nominated for distinguished service were Matt Spenner and Paula Taylor.
Here is a look at the other winners:
Small Business Award: Santiam Ballet Academy. “Thank you for trusting us with your kids,” said Academy Director Charlene Vogel, whose hip hop/jazz instructor Carl Massey broke out in a few lively steps as the Academy team left the stage. Also nominated were Jet
and Owen Mitzel of Stayton were honored.
Searles was involved in a wide range of activities, including volleyball and theater and advanced placement and dual enrollment academic work. She will be the valedictorian of the Class of 2026.
Searles cited the importance of “service above self,” the Rotary motto, and also talked about how her faith helped her grow and mature during high school.
the vibe of Third Avenue. Also nominated were The Hickory Spoon and Alpaca Soft and Naturals.
Non-profit Award: Stayton Volunteer Protection Co. No. 1. Five firefighters in uniform stepped up to receive the award. “We’re proud to be a member of this community,” said Chief Jay Alley. “Thank you all for supporting us.”
Also nominated were Spotlight Community Theatre and the Ty Hart Memorial Foundation.
Future First Citizens: Seniors Abigail Searles of Regis
“I didn’t understand who I was and where I was going, and I still haven’t figured it out,” she said.
Searles plans to further her education at LinnBenton Community College and Oregon State University and hopes to work in marketing or business.
Mitzel was introduced by Stayton assistant vice principal Brad Emmert, who called him “a student who has left his mark and made a difference. Owen is the best of the best, an amazing mix of academic drive and social commitment.”
During a poignant acceptance speech Mitzel discussed how much he had learned from working with the Unified group of special needs students on campus. His comment that “leadership is not about being in charge” was driven home so effectively that Marion County Commissioner Kevin Cameron asked him for a copy of the speech afterward.
PHOTOS BY JANET PATTERSON
Stayton Volunteer Protection Co. No. 1, led by Chief Jay Alley, earned the non-profit honor.
Denise Busch, above, right, accepts the distinguished service award and receives a congratulatory hug from Melissa Baurer; Abigail Searles, center, was named Future First Citizen from Regis St. Mary; and Owen Mitzel was named Future First Citizen from Stayton High.
Graduation ceremonies
Honoring the class of 2026
Stayton High School
Stayton High School’s graduation ceremony will be Friday, June 5, at 7 p.m. at Salem Armory, 2310 17th St. NE, Salem, with 193 students in the Class of 2026.
Principal Jamie McCarty said this year’s graduating class became leaders of school culture, demonstrating “resilience, positivity, and pride in Stayton High School.”
“As a first-year principal at Stayton High School, this class will always hold a special place in my heart because of the example they set and the legacy they leave behind,” said McCarty.
Valedictorians include Karly Brown, Zachary Flett, Esther Gorelik, Ashley Heuberger, Oliver Hunt, Mareli Mercado Puga, Makenzie Schacher, Mason Silbernagel and Evelyn Welch. No tickets are required to attend the ceremony. Doors open at 5 p.m.
Cascade High School
Cascade High School’s graduation ceremony will be Wednesday, June 3, at 7 p.m. at the school’s Federico Field. There are 225 students in the class of 2026.
This year’s seniors are “superb scholars, citizens and members of our community,” said Principal Pete Rasmussen, “with a commitment to excellence and character.
“The Cascade community is proud of these students because of what they have accomplished and the examples they have set for our schools,” he added.
Valedictorians include Eleanor Butler, Kenzie Clausen, Cade Coresen, Phoenix Cuarteros, Arianna Infante, Eliza Kuenzi, Sophia Ly, Alexzander Medlock, Landon Miller, Amyah Miranda, Gretchen Moll, James Murphy, Kaelei Sanders, Andrew Suelzle, Isabelle Tonkin, Arely TorresSalazar and Kate Withers.
Those requiring mobility accommodations may email tchristensen@cascade k12.or us
Regis High School class of 2026 graduation ceremony will be Friday, June 5, at 6 p.m. in the school’s gym.
There will be 29 graduates, including Valedictorian Abigail Searles and Salutatorian Sophia Wagner.
Head of Schools Aaron Persons said this year’s seniors excelled in sports, academics and the arts, claiming state and league championships, earning multiple college credits and delivering memorable performances.
“They have used their gifts to help our community,” said Persons. “Now, we pray that they continue to walk closely with Christ using their gifts in service to others wherever they may go.”
Prior to graduation, a Baccalaureate service is scheduled for June 4 at 6 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, in Stayton, followed by senior awards.
Submissions welcome
Our Town appreciates the opportuity to share life’s Passages with our readers. If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, college graduation or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown.life@mtangelpub. com or mail it to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 6, Stayton, OR 97383, or drop it by our office at 2340 Martin Dr. #104, Stayton any weekday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
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Something to Do
1927 film
Brown House Ag Ed screening June 20
By James Day
A talk on the history of agricultural education in Silverton is set for 3 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at the Brown House in Stayton, 425 N. First Ave.
The Silverton Country Historical Society is organizing the talk, which is based on a 1927 film developed by Warren E. Crabtree. The Silverton High vocational agriculture teacher took it upon himself to document the activities of Silverton High’s ag program, which was funded by the federal government as part of the Smith-Hughes program that paid for secondary vocational education.
The film and its accompanying presentation offers a unique view of common agricultural techniques in the 1920s. Most of the work still relied on horse-powered equipment.
The talk, the fifth in a Brown House series of eight scheduled as part of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, is free. Refreshments will be served.
The series is free due to the support of grants from the Oregon Historical Society and the Marion Cultural Development Corporation. Docentguided tours of the Brown House also will be offered.
The next program, on the experience of the Basque population in Oregon, is set for 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15. It will be presented by the Santiam Historical Society.
For more information on the programs email cmbrownhouse@ gmail.com or call 503-769-8860.
Passages
Marie
Frances Barnts
Marian Frances Barnts was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing on March 14, 2026.
She was born on April 3, 1927, in Sodaville, Oregon, to Francis and Reha (Baker) Kau. Her life was filled with love for family.
Marian owned and operated the Koffee Kup in Crescent City for over 30 years, serving her community with dedication. She was an active member of local organizations, serving as president of the Crescent City Emblem Club and president of Crescent Bowl.
April 3, 1927 – March 14, 2026
After retiring, Marian moved to Stayton, Oregon, in 2002.
She enjoyed a variety of hobbies throughout her life. She had passion for crafts, baking, and traveling. Bowling
was one of her favorite activities, which she continued to enjoy until the age of 90.
Marian is preceded in death by her son, her parents, two brothers, and one sister.
She is survived by her children: Myrlene (Gale) Holfert, Dixie (Guy) Barth, and Vicky (Jerry) Berquist; her sister Janet Bevens; and her brother Ace Kau.
Marian leaves behind a large family, including seven grandchildren, 17 greatgrandchildren, and eight great-greatgrandchildren. Services will be held in Crescent City, California.
Serving the family, North Santiam Funeral Service, Stayton.
Submissions welcomed: Send to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com or mail it to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mount Angel, OR 97362.
Pride • Integrity • Respect • Loyalty • Thrive
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 Ava Traeger. Ava is being recognized for exemplifying the value; Integrity.
Ava is considered a light in the classroom. She arrives to each day full of energy and kindness. She enjoys learning and actively participates in class. She is respectful to those around her and classmates know they can trust her. She will do the right thing without debate.
PacifiCorp pause
Judge puts 2020 wildfire trials on hold
By Stephen Floyd
A series of trials against PacifiCorp over the 2020 wildfires have been put on hold as fire survivors ask the Oregon Supreme Court to overturn an appellate ruling invalidating their claims.
On May 22, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Steffan Alexander signed an order partially granting PacifiCorp’s request to pause all trial proceedings in James et al vs. PacifiCorp.
This impacts roughly 150 trials scheduled through March of 2028 for around 1,500 plaintiffs with claims over the Santiam, 242, Echo Mountain Complex and South Obenchain fires.
PacifiCorp was found liable for these fires in 2023 by failing to de-energize its system during a red flag event over Labor Day 2020. Since then 200 claims have been tried with more than $1.2 billion awarded and the potential for billions more in damages.
While new trials are paused, related activities may resume starting Aug. 10 including the filing of new claims, exchanges of evidence, settlement negotiations and post-trial motions in already-tried cases.
Alexander also made an exception for 23 Echo Mountain survivors with properties on Deerlane Loop who are not formally members of the class. He set a trial for these claims starting September of 2027.
Alexander’s order will remain in effect until the supreme court petition is resolved, at which point the case would proceed based on the high court’s decision.
Appeals court reversal
The future of the case was called into question April 3 when the Oregon Court of Appeals issued an opinion overturning the 2023 verdict. The opinion said jurors were improperly told that they “may assume that the evidence at the trial applies to all class members.”
The opinion reversed the verdict and remanded the matter back to the trial court for further action, including a possible new liability trial. The opinion does not take effect until plaintiffs have had an opportunity to challenge the matter.
PacifiCorp filed a motion the same day asking the lower court to pause all further trial proceedings. It argued, if the decision is upheld, no class member would have a valid claim and further damages trials would be a waste of court resources.
Supreme court petition
Plaintiffs filed a petition May 13 with the supreme court asking that the appellate decision be overturned. They said the opinion showed a misunderstanding of both class action procedures and the evidence.
Plaintiffs said the jury instruction at issue was standard legal language and would not have been prejudicial to PacifiCorp in the broader context of other juror instructions. They also said the appeals court did not invalidate evidence and the verdict should not be thrown out when plaintiffs clearly demonstrated liability. PacifiCorp was given until May 27 to file a response to plaintiffs’ petition.
DUII wreck causes Stayton bridge closure
A Woodburn man has been charged with DUII and felony assault after allegedly causing a collision.
Christian Manuel Ramon-Carbajal, 31, was arrested May 17 after a two-vehicle collision that morning on a bridge south of Stayton on Stayton-Scio Road.
According to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Ramon-Carbajal was traveling south in a Hummer H3 when he struck a curb, veered into the oncoming lane and struck a Chrysler sedan head-on. Ramon-Carbajal sustained minor injuries.
Court roundup
Summer trial set in alleged sex abuse case
An August trial has been set for a former vice principal at Regis St. Mary’s School for the alleged sexual abuse of a female student.
A two-day trial is scheduled to begin Aug. 3 for Christopher Wayne Seibert, 57, of Salem, in Marion County Circuit Court before Judge Thomas Hart.
Seibert is charged with second-degree unlawful sexual penetration and four counts of first-degree sexual abuse. He is accused of sexually groping the alleged victim multiple times between 2021 and 2023, beginning when she was younger than 14.
The alleged victim came forward after Seibert left Regis in 2023 to become principal at St. Joseph Catholic School, in Salem. He is no longer employed at St. Joseph and his Oregon teaching license is not currently active.
Seibert has been released on $250,000 bail with orders to have no contact with minors while the case is pending or frequent places where minors congregate. He has been allowed to travel to California for work, where he is licensed as a school administrator in Sacramento County.
If convicted, Seibert faces at least 75 months in prison.
preliminary hearing since the charges were filed Jan. 20, and said prosecutors cannot show good cause for the delay.
Judge Thomas McHill dismissed the charges without prejudice, meaning prosecutors reserve the right to re-file in the future.
Castro and Duran Castro were accused of helping Castro’s son, Alexzander Israel Bentley-Lopez, 23, of Stayton, flee authorities following the death of Kyrie Anthony Glisan, 2, of Albany.
Glisan died Oct. 20, 2025, after being hospitalized in Albany with suspicious injuries. At the time Bentley-Lopez was dating the child’s mother.
During investigation, police learned Bentley-Lopez allegedly brutalized Glisan’s mother and abused his 3-yearold brother. Charges have been filed related to these allegations. No charges were filed as of press time related to Bentley-Lopez’s death.
Castro was accused of allegedly helping her son try to flee the state. BentleyLopez was arrested in Medford Nov. 5, 2025. He is held in the Linn County Jail without bail.
Man charged with assault, kidnapping
A Stayton man is facing serious charges after allegedly assaulting a woman and holding her captive.
The other driver, a 77-year-old Stayton man, suffered serious injuries.
On May 18, Ramon-Carbajal appeared in Linn County Circuit Court on charges including second-degree assault, DUII, and reckless driving. If convicted, he faces at least 70 months in prison. Ramon-Carbajal was released on $40,000 bail with orders to consume no alcohol while the case is pending. He was convicted of DUII in 2023. He pled guilty and after a year of probation and an alcohol treatment program, the charge was dismissed.
Hindering investigation charges dismissed
A local couple accused of helping the wife’s son evade an investigation into the death of a toddler have had their charges dropped for lack of prosecution.
On May 8, charges of hindering prosecution against Aleasha Lorraine Castro, 47, and Rommel Angel Duran Castro, 40, both of Stayton, were dismissed in Linn County Circuit Court.
A defense motion filed that day said there has been no indictment and no
Clemente Bonilla, 40, was arrested May 5 following an incident that day on the 200 block of N. Third Avenue.
According to charges filed in Marion County Circuit Court, Bonilla allegedly entered the premises with the intent to assault the victim. He allegedly strangled her, causing minor injuries, damaged her phone and restrained her against her will.
Bonilla is charged with second-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary, strangulation and fourth-degree assault. If convicted he faces at least 70 months in prison. As of press time Bonilla was held in the Marion County Jail on $100,000 bail.
Here’s How to Be a Great Dad
Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday, June 21. It’s a holiday set aside to remember and honor fathers of all ages for the important part they play in the lives of their children. As with all properly celebrated holidays, “What we honor we increase.” And so, if we want more fathers to do the right thing, we need to define what the right thing is, and then encourage fathers to do that.
The fact that many fathers fall short is not a valid reason to ignore the holiday. Our moral culture, as a family, as a community, and even as a nation, depends on the majority of us renewing our commitment to high ideals.
So, let’s look at the relationship God intends for fathers to have with their children. We find two clear statements concerning this in the Apostle Paul’s letters to two different churches, one in Ephesus, and the other in Colossae, both located in what is now Turkey.
Gregg Harris, www.GraciousCross.org
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), that it may be well with you and that you may live long upon the earth. And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:1-4).
The second passage offers additional light:
“Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not exasperate your children, that they may not lose heart.” (Col. 3:20-21)
Paul’s purpose is first to call those under dad’s authority (i.e. his children) to honor and obey him as the authority God has set over them. But then, to also charge fathers to be kind, servant- hearted and loving toward the children under his protection and care. Parents are not to misuse their authority.
“Children, Obey Your Parents.”
Why obey your parents? Three reasons.
First, because “it is pleasing to the Lord.” Anything that is pleasing to the Lord should be our top priority. That is because whatever is pleasing to the Lord will be both good and wise. It will always be in our own best interest because God wants what is best for us.
Second, because “it is right.” “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” When something is right it means it is fitting for its purpose. It is appropriate. Children are not required to obey anything that is displeasing to the Lord. That would be wrong. Even the request to do something that is wrong should be reported to other family members, to the local church authorities, or
even
to the police. God does not trap children in abusive relationships. Children are only to obey “in the Lord.”
Third, “that you may live long upon the earth.” Obedience to parents is the primary means by which children are protected from harm. Of all people on earth, parents are most likely to have their child’s well-being at heart. “Honor your father and mother,” is a commandment with a promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” What did Paul have in mind when he wrote this?
God’s Talking to You, Dad!
Having addressed children and the reasons why they should obey their parents, Paul then turns his attention specifically to fathers.
“And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Eph. 6:4).
And “Fathers, do not exasperate your children, that they may not lose heart.” (Col. 3:21). Paul’s commandments here are aimed, not only at getting dads to be kinder and more patient with their children, but also to preserve each father’s influence in the lives of his children. Don’t lose your child’s respect by exasperating and discouraging them.
God knows that children, even in their earliest years, are sensitive to injustice. They can spot hypocrisy in their dad. When children see their father saying one thing, but then
“There are five basic ways that we see God discipline and instruct His children in the Bible, and we are able to follow His example with our own children.”
doing another, using his authority in a convenient-for-him, self-serving way, there is a legitimate anger that wells up within them. The rebellion feels justified, though it is no less dangerous. Children need their dad.
By Gregg Harris
2. God communicates clearly what is pleasing and displeasing to Him. God does not leave us guessing. He tells us plainly how we should live. Dads can do the same.
3. God establishes good routines in our lives that support us in doing what is good and wise. All of the feasts of the Old Testament, and the Church gatherings in the New Testament, create good routines that help keep us on the right path. Have meals together. Read books aloud. Attend church.
4. God uses the momentary pain of harmless discipline to correct us when we disobey Him. Defiance requires discipline by parents. “…God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline” (Heb. 12:7)? If we truly love our children, we have to discipline them.
5. God grants and withholds liberty on the basis of how well we are handling the liberty we already have. When we show God we are faithful with what we have, He delights in giving us more to be faithful with. “No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly” (Psa. 84:11).
Is God Your Heavenly Father?
He’s quoting from the Ten Commandments in Exodus. There we read: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you” (Ex. 20:12). We obey to survive.
Children face many dangers in this world. Throughout history, and around the world, the foolishness of youth comes with potentially deadly consequences. Even just running out into the street when one’s father has yelled “Stop!” often ends badly. Much more so sneaking out at night, joining up with kids in a neighborhood gang, experimenting with drugs and alcohol, and having premarital sex. This is how trafficking often begins. The foolishness and sin of immaturity can and do lead to an early demise. Hanging out with the wrong crowd can get you shot. It happens. So, on the child’s side of the relationship comes obedience and respect for dad (and mom). Listen to their instruction. On mom and dad’s side comes the responsibility to consistently provide that instruction.
But a frustrated child will often stop trying to please his or her father. They may instead try to avoid him. In light of this Paul tells fathers, “…do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” For Christians, God is “our Father who is in heaven.” And so, a dad is to train and instruct his children in the same way God trains and instructs him as His child. But how does God train and instruct His children?
God the Father is a Great Dad!
There are five basic ways that we see God discipline and instruct His children in the Bible, and dads are able to follow God’s example with their own children.
1. God includes us in what He is doing. Even though He does not need our help, God gives us things to do that draw us closer to Him. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me” (Matt. 11:29). Rather than entertaining your children, include them in what you have to do. Take them with you, and talk with them.
So, God is a great dad. First, He is the Father of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. But through Jesus, God has made the way open for any of us to become sons and daughters in His eternal family. He did so by sending Jesus into this world to live the perfect life we have all failed to live, but then dying in our place on the cross as payment for our sins. God then proved that it worked by raising Jesus from the dead. So, Jesus is alive!
Now God welcomes us to repent of our sins and put our faith in Jesus. In John 14:6 Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Jesus is the only way we can be saved from the punishment we deserve. We can be forgiven of our sins, but only by faith in Jesus. So, this Father’s Day, come to God as your Heavenly Father. Just ask Him to save you. Questions? Call 971-370-0967. Let’s talk.
Attention All Dads! Join us every Thursday morning for our Noble Men’s Breakfast at The Noble Inn.
409 S. Water Street, Silverton, OR 97381 Thurs. mornings from 7 to 8:30 AM For more 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.
Young champion
Vivian Jones, a 15-year-old freshman at Stayton High, is developing into a top amateur boxer.
Jones is a two-time state and regional champion and early this year she captured the national Silver Gloves championship in her 119-pound weight class at a prestigious competition in Independence, Missouri.
Jones, who has been boxing for approximately 2.5 years, is ranked No. 4 nationally at 119 pounds and No.9 at 114. She trains three to four days per week at Fisticuffs Boxing in Vancouver, Washington, where she works with boxing coach Leonard Gabriel and mixed martial arts coach Glenna Gabriel. When she is not at Fisticuffs she trains at home.
Vivian told Our Town that “I first started boxing when my parents decided they wanted to put me and my brother into some kind of gym classes because we didn’t play sports. And I was attracted to (boxing) because of its competition and the bonds you make with other people through it.”
Next up for Jones is the national Junior Olympics in Wichita, Kansas, at the end of June.
When asked about her future in the sport, Jones said “I am not completely sure how far I want to go with my boxing career yet, but I do know that I want to try to win a couple more national championships.”
Track and field: The Cascade girls took second and the boys finished third in the Oregon West Conference district meet. Host Stayton, meanwhile, finished third among girls and fifth in the boys. Regis hosted the Class 2A Special District II meet and took third among the boys and fifth among the girls. Qualified athletes moved on to the state meet in Eugene, which took place after Our Town’s presstime.
Stayton boxer proving tough to beat
Cascade’s Josiah Hawkins won the 100 and the 200, took third in the long jump and ran the anchor league on the 4x100 relay squad that finished second. Blake Baker also was an event winner for the Cascade boys, taking the tape in the 300 hurdles.
Livia Free and Makenna Fraser finished 1-2 in the 200 for the Cascade girls. Makenna Burns won the 100 hurdles and teamed up with Fraser, Free and Peyton Freeborn to win the 4x100 relay. Emelia Altabef won the high jump for the Cougars.
Evelyn Welch won the 300 hurdles and took second in the 100 hurdles, while teammate Madelyn Olson captured the long jump and the triple jump for the Stayton girls. Other event winners included Molli Emmert (shot put) and Mila Morley (javelin). Miguel Ceballos was second in the 800 for the Stayton, with teammates Jonathan Davis and Daniel Young taking fourth and sixth, respectively.
At the 2A district meet at Regis, Stuart McLaughlin led the boys with wins in the 1,500 and the 3,000. Teammate Harper Stoops finished second in the 1,500. Clara Persons took second in the 800 and third in the 400 for the Rams’ girls squad.
Silver Falls closing in on having all trails open
By James Day
The work to clear out downed trees and hazards from Silver Falls State Park is almost concluded and just one trail segment remains closed.
The late December windstorm wreaked havoc throughout the Cascades, with damage at popular spots such as Shellburg Falls in addition to Silver Falls.
State parks officials told Our Town that the lone trail piece that is NOT open is the one on the Canyon Trail that runs
from Twin Falls to the Rim Trail near the North Falls Trailhead.
The trailhead and parking lot at North Falls are open and visitors can use the Rim Trail to venture toward the South Falls day-use area, but hikers currently cannot pass under North Falls.
The North Canyon Trailhead also is open and hikers can travel from the new parking lot there to the new North Falls lookout and beyond to North Falls.
No word was available regarding when
Golf: Grant Hemelstrand of Cascade finished fourth in the Class 4A tournament at Emerald Valley in Creswell. Hemelstrand shot 155 for the 36 holes and finished five strokes behind champion Xanh Guang of Seaside. Garrett Wells of Cascade was 14th at 169 for the Cougars, who finished third in the team race behind Marist Catholic and Pendleton/Griswold.
Tennis: Rachel Suelzle and Kate Withers of Cascade finished third in the Class 4A-3A-2A-1A doubles competition at the state tournament at Oregon State University. The Cougars finished with seven points, good for sixth place in the team competition. Cascade’s boys scored four points and tied for fifth, with the doubles team of Benjamin Hedges and James Murphy and singles players William Clausen and Andrew Suelzle participating.
Stayton’s boys also tied for fifth with four points, led by the doubles team of Caleb Larsen and Devin Hatfield.
Boys volleyball: Cascade turned in a 14-3 overall record and finished a perfect 12-0 in Class 4A-3A-2A-1A’s Special District III in the first year of OSAA-sanctioned play. The Cougars were the No. 2 seed in the state playoffs, but fell in the quarterfinals to No. 7 Central Christian of Redmond in five sets, losing the final set by a 16-14 margin.
Equestrian: Cascade scored 100 points in the Oregon High School Equestrian Teams state championships in Redmond. The Cougars finished 10th among large schools. Lainey Sell finished third in in-hand trial and sixth in trail equitation, while also finishing in the top 10 in two team events. Sell, Makaylee Lung, Hannah Bielenberg and Hailey Shewey were third in the in-hand obstacle relay. Sell and Lung, meanwhile, tied for 10th in working pairs.
Stayton scored 37 points to nail down 19th place among large schools, Lanhden Curtis was fifth in driving and Naomi Curtis was seventh in steer daubing for the Eagles.
Got a news tip? Email me at james.d@mtangelpub.com. Follow me on X (Twitter) @jameshday and Our Town on Facebook.
the final segment will reopen and thus allow visitors to embark on the popular Trail of 10 Falls loop.
All other amenities at Silver Falls, including trails, picnic shelters and other day-use and overnight facilities, remain open and ready for visitors. Park officials caution hikers on the back country trails such as the Perimeter, the Catamount, Buck Mountain and Racket Ridge that there is always a chance of downed trees, limbs, or water on those trails but they are open.
Vivian Jones with the championship belt she won at the national Silver Gloves competition in Missouri. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Crews work on downed trees that have caused problems at Silver Falls State Park since late December. SILVER FALLS STATE PARK
The Garden at 25
How it’s grown into an important Oregon attraction
It took vision to see what was possible on the once-barren site of the Oregon Garden . FILE PHOTO, 2006
By James Day
On June 27, 1997 U.S. Sen. Mark Hatfield gave a speech on a blustery hillside south of Silverton. U.S. Rep. Darlene Hooley fired up a huge earth-moving machine. Silverton Mayor Ken Hector, always self-effacing, was content to turn the soil with a shovel.
And the Oregon Garden was launched.
The dream of a showcase for the state’s plants, flowers and its highly regarded nursery industry, however, goes back to the 1930s, according to history notes compiled by Clayton Hannon, former Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN) executive director.
“We wanted a display project for the industry,” Hannon wrote in the chronology. “And the idea floated around for years until it took on new life in 1990.”
The OAN originally was all but locked into placing the facility in Wilsonville on land next to Interstate-5. It was a done deal. “We are going to Wilsonville,” Hannon noted in the chronology.
That is until Ted Hughes, a prominent Salem lobbyist, got involved. Hughes, in one of those mysterious bits of chance
that change history, represented both the OAN … and the city of Silverton. Hughes encouraged the OAN organizers to look at Silverton and after a breakfast meeting that included City Manager Mike Scott, the tide turned toward Silverton.
Scott, whose nickname during the Garden’s formative years among the OAN folks was “no problem,” because he always seemed to find an answer, offered several million dollars worth of land on the hillside as well as an endless water supply.
Irrigating with wastewater
Ah, the water. It’s one of the key drivers of the whole shebang.
Hector, who served as mayor from 1993 to 2008 and later was a member of the Oregon Garden Foundation Board, picks up the story.
“The city could not discharge (treated wastewater) into Silver Creek between May and October,” Hector told Our Town in an interview at The Warren.
“Fines were threatened and the state gave us a timeline. You can’t just take 1 million gallons of effluent and do whatever
you want with it,” Hector said. “So we started scrambling. Where are you going to take it?”
“No problem” Scott offered the OAN what Hannon’s chronology refers to as an “endless water supply from sanitation plants and what seemed to be unlimited infrastructure support.”
A few days later Silverton and OAN officials met on a hillside horse ranch at the south end of town. Hannon’s notes say “it was a clear blue sky day where you could see all of the valley, the Coast Range and even Marys Peak.”
And the momentum began to build. The newly formed Oregon Garden board said yes to Silverton while Hannon notes that there were some “tense” moments when they said no to Wilsonville.
Starting the engine
Another key figure enters the picture here, Rick Gustafson, who was hired to be the OGF’s executive director. Gustafson’s first task was to begin the process of designing the Oregon Garden on the 130 acres of city property. He brought in a dream team of stakeholders and civic leaders who from 1996 until the Garden opened in 2001, distilled the ideas, planned and brainstormed, and brought the facility to life.
Big players in the state’s nursery industry were involved, including J. Frank Schmidt & Sons, Jackson and Perkins, Bob Fessler of Woodburn Nursery & Azaleas, Don Powell of Garland Nursery in Corvallis and Jack Bigej of Al’s Garden & Home. Others involved included long-time Salem and Oregon booster Jerry Frank and Silverton grocer Orville Roth. Miles McCoy, on loan from the OAN, helped keep everyone on task.
And so it begins
And the individual gardens began to grow and to bloom. The Oak Grove and the Wetlands in 1999. The Conifer Garden, Rose Garden Children’s Garden, A-Mazing Water Garden, Northwest Garden, Bosque, and Café Garden followed in 2000.
In March of 2001 the Gordon House, the only Frank Lloyd
1035 N. 6th Ave, Stayton 503-769-2656
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No matter how long you have been away, we invite you to renew your relationship with Christ through the Church He founded. Our doors are open and Christ’s mercy is waiting for you in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is never too late to come home.
Wright-designed home in Oregon, moved to the Oregon Garden. The opening celebration took place from June 29 through July 3. Heady days, as more than 200,000 people visited that first year.
“There were some pretty lofty opinions on how successful it would be,” Hector said, noting that many in Silverton hoped it would match the success of Butchart Gardens in British Columbia. That didn’t happen, with post-pandemic crowds averaging around 50,000 visitors per year. Butchart, while significantly smaller than the Oregon Garden at just 54 acres, attracts 1 million annual visitors. For another frame of reference: Silver Falls State Park brings in about 1.5 million visitors per year.
“It never came close to those expectations,” Hector said, “and it never met the financial expectations.”
Ups and downs
But it wasn’t for lack of trying. The Garden brought in a brew festival in 2005 and it ran in a series of iterations through 2018. Big-name entertainment came to town for concerts at the Garden’s Teufel Amphitheater from 2006 through 2011.
Delen Kitchen, the Oregon Garden Foundation’s current executive director and an 11-year Garden employee, noted the challenge that came with adding large-scale activities.
“While these events were incredibly popular and wellattended, large-scale festivals carry inherent financial risk and require an immense amount of time and labor to put on,” Kitchen told Our Town in an email exchange. “The concert series, in particular, struggled due to the limited capacity of the Teufel Amphitheater and the high cost of security, production and booking national talent. This reality, along with evolving priorities, led Garden management to downsize to smaller, more intimate musical acts featuring regional artists and to focus resources on other, smaller events with greater community benefit, such as Earth Day and our July 3rd fireworks celebration.”
The Garden went into receivership in 2006. A $6 million loan from Marion County ultimately was forgiven, although the Garden still owes the city of Silverton $570,000. Moonstone Garden Management began running the Garden in 2006 and opened its hotel in 2008. Management of the
attraction returned to a newly constituted Oregon Garden Foundation board in 2020.
“That’s when COVID hit and the government shut everything down,” Hector said. “We couldn’t have events. There was no revenue and the maintenance went to hell.”
More chapters of the story remain to unfold. Hector said the Garden “is looking pretty good these days. And if it can take care of the city’s wastewater and can stay in the black financially, then that’s OK.”
Editor’s note: This story begins a three-part Our Town look at the past, present and future of The Oregon Garden, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Look for further stories in our July 1 and Aug. 1 editions. The Garden itself will be noting the milestone with events from June 29 through July 3.
Oregon Garden Timeline
1600 (circa): The Signature Oak takes root in a hillside overlooking the Willamette Valley.
1940s: The Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN) explores the idea of developing a botanical garden.
1995: A site is selected in Silverton and an agreement is reached, including the development of a wetland system to cool the city’s treated wastewater and irrigate ornamental plantings.
1996: The master plan for the garden is developed.
1997: The Oregon Garden’s groundbreaking takes place on June 27. U.S. Sen. Mark Hatfield gives the keynote address. U.S. Rep Darlene Hooley and Silverton Mayor Ken Hector turn the soil.
1999: The J. Frank Schmidt Jr. Pavilion (April 17), Oak Grove (Oct. 1), and Wetlands (Oct. 13) are dedicated. The city of Silverton begins using treated wastewater to irrigate the Garden.
2000: The Conifer Garden (April 27), Rose Garden (June 25), Children’s Garden (July 1), A-Mazing Water Garden (July 15), Northwest Garden (Aug. 12), Bosque (Sept. 10), and Café Garden (Oct. 25) are completed.
2001: The Gordon House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, moves to the Garden in March. The Garden welcomes more than 230,000 visitors that year.
2002: The Gordon House is dedicated on March 2, and the Rediscovery Forest, and Natural Resource Education Center open on June 7.
2003: Pet-friendly Garden is completed.
2004: Visitor Center, Sensory Garden, and Honor Garden are completed.
2005: Inaugural “Blooms and Brews” event was held. Beer-oriented events ran through 2018. Lewis and Clark Garden completed.
2006: High-profile concerts begin at Teufel Amphitheater and run through 2011. Moonstone Garden Management begins managing The Garden.
2007: Groundbreaking ceremony for the Oregon Garden Resort is held May 1.
2008: The Oregon Garden Resort opens in October.
2011: The Oregon Garden celebrates its 10-year anniversary.
2012: Fire Safety House is renovated.
2014: Discovery Pavilion opening takes place on Oct. 2 in the Rediscovery Forest.
2016: The Garden celebrates its 15-year anniversary.
2018: Marion County forgives $6 million debt. .
2020: The Oregon Garden Foundation resumes management of the Garden. Moonstone retains ownership of the resort. The COVID-19 pandemic forces the Garden to curtail operations.
2022: Pirate Ship play structure is dedicated.
2026: The Garden celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Gardeners and gardening volunteers have turned the site into a world-famous botanical garden. FILE PHOTO, 2011
My, how the Garden has grown! FILE PHOTO, 2008
Frequent Address
Santiam Senior Center 41818 Kingston-Jordan Road, Stayton Stayton Community Center, 400 W Virginia St.
Stayton Public Library, 515 N First Ave. Weekly Events
Monday
Stayton Community Food Bank, 9 a.m. - noon, 1210 Wilco Road. Repeats Monday - Friday. 503-769-4088
Baby & Me – 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., Doris’s Place, 955 E Santiam St., Stayton. Parents/caregivers and their babies under 1 year of age. Light refreshments. Drop-in. 503-769-9200
Santiam Senior Center, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Seniors 50 and older. Daily, weekly, monthly events. 503-767-2009, santiamseniorcenter.com
Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m., Stayton Community Center. Congregate dining or delivery. Age 60 and older. Serves Stayton, Sublimity, Aumsville, Lyons, Marion, Mehama. Repeats Wednesday and Friday. $3 donation suggested. For delivery, call Ginger, 503-769-7995. Bingo, 1 - 3:30 p.m., Santiam Senior Center. $.05-.10 per game. Bring can/ box of non-perishable food for Stayton Food Bank, get free card. Seniors 50+. Free. Repeats Thurs. 503-767-2009 Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., New Life Foursquare Church, 1090 N First Ave., Stayton. Also Thursday and Friday. Santiam Canyon Community Chorus, 7 - 8:30 p.m., Stewart’s Hall, 158 SW Broadway St., Mill City. 503-859-2502
Tuesday
Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Stayton Public Library. Explore early literacy through songs, rhythms, stories, rhyme. All ages welcome. Free. 503-769-3313 English, Citizenship, GED Classes, 6:30 - 8 p.m., United Methodist Church, 1450 Fern Ridge Road, Stayton. Classes free; $20 workbook. Repeats Thursday. Join class anytime. Mary, 503-779-7029
Wednesday
Stayton/Sublimity Chamber Business Network, 8:15 a.m. Network-building event for local businesses, non-profit professionals. Location varies. For location, call 503-769-3464. St. Boniface Archives and Museum, 9 a.m. - noon, 370 Main St., Sublimity. Free. 503-508-0312
Toddler Time: Stay & Play, 10:30 a.m., Stayton Public Library. Explore early learning and literacy with your infant or toddler, then stay for different activities and stations for play. Older siblings welcome. Free. 503-769-3313
Lyons Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Lyons Public Library, 279 Eighth St. Read, play, sing, rhyme. Free. 503-859-2366
Alcoholics Anonymous, 6 p.m., New Life Foursquare Church, 1090 N First Ave., Stayton.
Thursday
Sublimity Quilters, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. Boniface Catholic Church, 375 SE Church St., Sublimity. Make quilts for local community donations and charities. Everything provided. New members welcome.
Point Man Ministries, 6 p.m., Canyon Bible Fellowship, 446 Cedar St., Lyons. Veterans support organization. 503-859-2627.
Friday
Cars & Coffee, 7:30 a.m., Covered Bridge Cafe, 510 N Third Ave., Stayton. Open to all. 503-767-3945
Community Lampstand, 5 -7 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. Learn how the bible inspired the works of the Founding Fathers in the creation of the United States and its founding documents. Free. Diannah, 503-881-6147
Free Summer BBQ – 5:30 p.m., Bethel Baptist Church, 645 Cleveland St., Aumsville. Food, fellowship and community all summer long. Feel free to bring a side dish, salad or dessert to share, but not necessary. All welcome. 503-749-2128, bethelaumsville.org
Cascade High – 7 p.m., June 3, Cascade High, 10226 SE Marion Road, Turner.
Stayton High – 7 p.m., June 5, Salem Armory, 2310 NE 17th St. Regis High – 6 p.m. June 5, Regis High, 550 W Regis St., Stayton. Monday, June 1
Stayton City Council
6:30 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-769-3425, staytonoregon.gov
VFW Post 5638
7 - 8:30 p.m., Stayton Fire Department, 1988 W Ida St. Veterans of Foreign Wars monthly meeting. New members welcome. Jim Bennett, 503-983-9110
Tuesday, June 2
Stayton Lions Club
Noon, Covered Bridge Cafe, 510 N Third Ave., Stayton. Club and new members are welcome. Also June 16. staytonlionsclub.org
Stayton Parks and Rec Board
6 p.m., Stayton Planning Building, 311 N Third Ave. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-769-3425
Wednesday, June 3
Aumsville Senior Social Circle
10 a.m. - noon, Riverview Bank, 112 Main St., Aumsville. Join Aumsville’s senior community for a morning of cards, dice and conversation. Feel free to bring your own games. Free. Sponsored by Aumsville Exchange Club. Repeats June 17.. CPR/AED Training
4:30 - 9 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Trains citizens in CPR/AED, care of choking for all ages, Narcan for opioid overdose, epinephrine for allergic reactions, Stop-The-Bleed and understanding the Oregon Good Samaritan Law. The $15 class is only available to people that live, work or do business within the Stayton 97383 zip code. Ages 12 and older. Register at medproed.com/course-2/savinglives-in-stayton-e5dcy. Repeats 4:30 - 9 p.m. 6/8, 6/10, 6/24, 6/30 and 1 - 5:30 p.m. 6/10.
Thursday, June 4
Lunch & Learn
1 p.m., Weddle Funeral Service, 1777 N Third Ave., Stayton. Learn about veteran benefits including burial benefits with Marion County Veteran Service Office. Lunch provided. RSVP to 503-769-2423.
Saturday, June 6
Free Fishing Day
You do not need a license to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon. Area closures, bag limits and all other regulations still apply. Repeats June 7.
Silverton Free Fishing Day
8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Silverton Reservoir. Free poles and bait, or bring your own. Free shuttle route every half hour from new Silverton City Hall, Robert Frost School, old City Hall, Nazarene Church. Free hot dogs, beverages. Vehicle access available for special needs individuals. Children under 12 must be accompanied by adult. Ron, 503-931-1346, skyhut@gmail.com Fun Run & Health Walk
8:30 a.m., Santiam Hospital, 1401 N 10th Ave., Stayton. 10K, 5K and 3K runs, 5K walk and kid-friendly options for ages 12 and under. Registration is $15/ adults, $10/kids, with family pricing available for groups of four. Music, food, beverages, beer garden, prizes. Registration ends June 4. Register at https://shorturl.at/eriKY.
MC Lamb & Wool Show
9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., Turner. Lamb show, silent auction, vendors, food booth, fireman’s breakfast, parade. For complete list of events and times, visit marioncountylambandwoolshow. yolasite.com.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Birthday
11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Gordon House, 869 W Main St., Silverton. Visitors of all ages can tour the home, hear stories about its history and preservation, enjoy refreshments and participate in handson educational activities for youth. $5 adults. Children 18 and under are free. 503-874-6006, thegordonhouse.org Monday, June 8
Sublimity City Council
6 p.m., Sublimity City Hall, 245 NW Johnson. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-769-5475, cityofsublimity.org
Lyons Fire District Board
6 p.m., Lyons Fire Station, 1114 Main St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-859-2410, lyonsrfd.org
Stayton Fire District Board
6 p.m., Stayton Fire Station, 1988 W Ida St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-769-2601, staytonfire.org
Aumsville City Council
7 p.m., Chester Bridges Memorial Community Center, 555 Main St., Aumsville. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-749-2030, aumsville.us
Cascade School Board
7 p.m., Cascade District Office, 10226 SE Marion Road, Turner. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-749-8010, cascade.k12.or.us
Tuesday, June 9
Dementia-Related Behaviors
10 a.m., Santiam Hospital, 1401 N 10th Ave., Stayton. Alzheimer’s Association program responding to dementiarelated behaviors. Free. Open to public. Register: 800-272-3900 or alz.org/CRF.
Ancestry Detectives
10 a.m. - noon, Silver Falls Library. Family Lore – Fact or Fiction? Beginners, intermediates and seasoned genealogists welcome. Free. ancestrydetectives.org
Santiam Historical Society
6 p.m., Stayton United Methodist Church, 1450 SE Fern Ridge Road. Presentation and discussion of Stayton’s history. Free. Open to public. santiamhistoricalsociety@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 10
RDS Board Meeting
6 p.m., Beauchamp Building, 278 E High St., Stayton. Revitalize Downtown Stayton monthly meeting. Open to public. 503-767-2317
Thursday, June 11
Red Cross Blood Drive
10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Santiam Hospital, 1401 N 10th Ave., Stayton. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
Aumsville Food Pantry
Noon - 4 p.m., Bethel Baptist Church, 645 Cleveland St., Aumsville. Open to people in need of food items. Repeats June 25. 503-749-2128
Santiam Heritage Foundation
6 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. Board of trustees meeting. Open to public. 503-769-8860
NSSD Board
6 p.m., District Office, 1155 N First Ave., Stayton. Board meeting for North Santiam School District. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-769-6924, nsantiam.k12.or.us
Aumsville Fire District
6:30 p.m., Aumsville Fire Station, 490 Church St. Agenda available. Open to public. 503-749-2894, aumsvillefire.org
Friday, June 12
Community Play Group
10 - 11:30 a.m., Doris’s Place, 955 E Santiam St., Stayton. Free opportunity to spend time with your children, socialize with other families and build support with the community. For families with children 0-5 years of age. 503-769-1120
Saturday, June 13
Flea Market
9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Santiam Valley Grange, 1140 Fifth St., Lyons. Free admission. Burger lunch with potato salad, deviled eggs, desserts, coffee, pop available for purchase. 503-859-2161
Corn Fest Coronation
Noon, Porter Boone Park, 1105 Main St., Aumsville. Coronation of Aumsville Corn Festival’s 2026 royalty. Past princesses will join. Free. 503-749-2030, aumsville.us
Sunday, June 14
Flag Day
Brown House Tour
Noon - 2 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. Tour historic Charles and Martha Brown House. $5/ person. Children under 18 free. Special reserved guided tour: 503-769-8860
Monday, June 15
Stayton City Council
6:30 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to public. 503-769-3425
Santiam Masonic Meeting
7 p.m., Santiam Lodge #25, 122 N Third Ave., Stayton. All Masons welcome. New members encouraged to drop by. “Santiam Lodge #25” on Facebook.
Tuesday, June 16
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 centuriesold Byzantine tradition. Parking and admission are free. Runs through Aug. 2. mountangelabbey.org
Red Cross Blood Drive
10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Aumsville Fire Department, 490 Church St. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
Summer Reading Kickoff
11 a.m. - noon, Stayton Public Library. Celebrate start of the Summer Reading Program for all ages. Free. 503-769-3313
North Santiam Watershed Council
6 p.m., Old Mehama School, 22057 SE Emma St., Lyons. Open to public. For Zoom link information, call 503-930-8202 or email council@northsantiam.org.
American Legion Post #58
6 - 7:30 p.m., Weddle Funeral Service, 1777 N Third Ave., Stayton. All veterans and service branches welcome. Post #58 pays first year’s dues for all who join. 503-508-2827
Wednesday, June 17
Stayton Book Club
4 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Read It & Eat It Book Club is a unique book club experience with food, fun and conversation. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
Thursday, June 18
Homegrown Goodness
1:30 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Gardening with Marion County Master Gardeners. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
Stayton Public Arts Commission
6 p.m., Stayton Public Works Building, 311 N Third Ave. Help plan and organize local art events. Open to public. Jennifer Siciliano, 503-769-2998, JSiciliano@ staytonoregon.gov.
Friday, June 19
Juneteenth
Community Play Group
10 - 11:30 a.m., Santiam Chapel Assembly of God, 440 Fifth St., Lyons. Free opportunity to spend time with your children, socialize with other families and build support with the community. For families with children 0-5 years of age. 503-769-1120
Saturday, June 20
Bethel Clothing Closet
9 a.m. - noon, Bethel Baptist Church, 645 Cleveland St., Aumsville. Clothing from newborn to 2x. Free. 503-749-2128
3 - 4:30 p.m., Brown House Event Center, 425 N First Ave., Stayton. “Voc-Ag at Silverton High School.” In 1927, Silverton High vocational agriculture teacher Warren E Crabtree documented the activities of the school’s ag program. View the film and listen to its accompanying presentation. Presented by Silverton Country Historical Society. Light refreshments. Free. 503-769-8860, brownhouse.org
11 a.m. - 5 p.m., CoolidgeMcClaine Park, Silverton. 75th annual event featuring a strawberry delight with biscuits and ice cream. $8/ each, 2/$15. Shortcake is free for children 2 and under and seniors 80 and older. Live music by Elyce Tyler. homerdavenport.com
Monday, June 22
Red Cross Blood Drive
Tuesday, June 23
Full Circle Farming
11 a.m., Stayton Public Library. Explore farming from the chicken to the egg. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
Lyons City Council
6:30 p.m., Lyons City Hall, 449 Fifth St. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-859-2167, cityoflyons.org
Wednesday, June 24
Foodies-in-the-Park
10:30 a.m., Stayton Public Library. Storytime with reading, writing, singing and playing. Afterward, find your inner foodie and explore different culinary experiences together. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
DIY Floral Candles
3 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Make or decorate candles with a bit of floral flair. Involves hot wax and real tools. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
Thursday, June 25
Paradise of Samoa
4 p.m., Stayton Public Library. Tour the Pacific Islands through dance, traditional costumes and narration with the Paradise of Samoa Polynesian Dance Troupe. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313, paradiseofsamoa.com
Saturday, June 27
Silverton Pride 2026
11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Coolidge McClaine Park, Silverton. Celebrate the local queer community and its allies. Vendors, live music. 21+ Drag Show after party at Main St. Bistro at 8 p.m. Open to public. Free. facebook.com/silvertonpride
Superhero Carnival
Noon - 3 p.m., Porter Boone Park, 1105 Main St., Aumsville. Play old-fashioned carnival games. Dress like a Superhero. All ages. Free entry and games.
Noon - 5 p.m., Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1077 N Sixth Ave., Stayton. For appt., visit redcrossblood. org or call 800-733-2767.
Aumsville City Council
7 p.m., Chester Bridges Memorial Community Center, 555 Main St., Aumsville. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-749-2030, aumsville.us
Aumsville Saturday Market
10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Porter Boone Park, 1105 Main St., Aumsville. Free entry. $20 per vendor space. To submit an applications, email market@ aumsville.us.
Monday, June 29
Stayton Planning Commission
7 p.m., Stayton Community Center. Open to the public. Agenda available. 503-769-3425, staytonoregon.gov
Tuesday, June 30
Full Circle Farming
11 a.m., Stayton Public Library. Explore different ways dogs work, both on and off the farm. All ages. Free. 503-769-3313
A Grin at the End
Still going strong Happy birthday to me... and all of us
It’s that time of year again – time for my annual birthday joke.
First, the joke.
Me: Did you know it’s my birthday?
You: Why no, I didn’t know that. How old are you?
Me: I’m 37, and other than a slight case of dyslexia, I feel pretty good.
When you’re as old as I am, birthdays are bittersweet. On the one hand, I’m just happy to be here. My wife and kids are still a kick in the pants. They’re always up to something, and most of it tickles me. I’m glad to see them all making their way in life. Sure, they’ve hit some bumps in the road along the way, but overall they’re doing fine.
But this summer is a special birthday for all of us, not just old dudes like me. The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. If you want to impress your friends with your
astonishing vocabulary you can say this year is the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Interestingly, the average lifespan for all of the previous nations and empires around the world is about 250 years, according to the World Population Review. That, however, doesn’t necessarily mean the good old U.S. will soon run out of gas. Far from it.
Actually, many countries have lasted far longer than 250 years.
For example, Japan is the longest-lived nation currently on the planet. It’s been around 2,673 years.
That means Japan was rocking along
We may owe you money. If you were a member of Stayton Cooperative Telephone Company receiving our services during the years 2005 and/or 2006, SCTC may owe you money. The Board of Directors of SCTC has authorized the forfeiture of all patronage distributions that have remained unclaimed for more than four years after approval of distribution. The date of forfeiture is March 10, 2027. Members must respond prior to that date to receive monies owed. Notices were mailed to the last known addresses on August 21, 2023, to all members entitled to a distribution. SCTC is making every possible effort to find those members that did not respond to previous notifications. SCTC has posted a complete list of members, as they appear on our records, on our website at https://www.sctcweb.com/unclaimed-checks/ . You can also visit our office at 502 N 2nd Ave in Stayton. Our business hours are M-F from 9:00 am until 5:00pm. If your name, or someone you know, appears on the list and payment has not been received, contact us immediately. You can email patronage@sctcweb.com, leave a message on our patronage hotline at 503 769-2724, or send a letter to SCTC, Attention: Patronage, PO Box 477, Stayton OR 97383.
hundreds of years before Christ was born. And Greece had its democracy about the time Japan was founded.
Anyone who made it through high school history knows that nations don’t last forever. In Egypt, the pharaohs had a pretty good run. They were in charge of northeast Africa for about 3,000 years, until the Romans showed up.
So what’s it all mean, for us and for the rest of the world? It means that our experiment, which was cooked up by folks like Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and the 54 others who signed the Declaration of Independence, is going pretty well.
It’s not perfect and never will be. When citizens are put in charge of the government, instead of vice versa, things can get a little wobbly every now and then.
When Abraham Lincoln said that ours is a government of the people, by the people
Kathleen’s Pet Grooming
and for the people, he was talking about a unique nation that will continue to embrace freedom above all else.
Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence that “We hold these truths to be self-evident, 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.”
The three branches of government that were created in the U.S. Constitution provide a system of checks and balances that keep our nation on course.
For old dudes and for great nations, birthdays are a time for celebration, and to reflect on all of the tribulations we have weathered in the past and the future that lies ahead.
Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.
GENERAL
Tired of THE
after month the full page PAID ADVERTISEMENT invades our mailboxes. Visit tiredofgreggharris.com
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
HELP WANTED
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ASSISTANT: Part time, flexible hours. We are willing to train someone willing to learn. Customer service and computer skills helpful. Familiarity with Our Town a real plus. For more information see our ad on page 3. To apply email paula.m@ mtangelpub.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. 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. Find out what we can do for you. $20 min. Keithm 503-502-3462
RENTALS
ROOM FOR RENT: $650/Month in Lyons. Lawn mowing needed. Please call 503-383-4398
Place your ad in Marketplace 503-845-9499
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
SERVICES
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. Call Harold 503-391-7406
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
Saturday, June 6th, 2026
Registration: 7:00am - 8:00am
• Run Start: 8:30am
• Starting Line: Santiam Hospital & Clinics • 1401 N. 10th Ave. • Stayton, OR
• Course Closes: 10:00am
Registration Cost
$10 Children 12 and Under ($15 with T-Shirt)
$15 Adult Pre-Registration Entry ($20 with T-Shirt)
$20 Day of Event Entry ($25 with T-Shirt while supplies last)
$40 Pre-Registration Group Rate (up to 4 people, includes T-Shirts)
$50 Day of Event Group Entry (up to 4 people, includes T-Shirts while supplies last)
Special Thanks to our Sponsors: OMAC Advertising, Stayton Road Runners Club & Ticos Coffee Roasting Additional sponsors & vendors: Anytime Fitness, Mckenzie Sewon, Our Town, Pacific Perks, Race Northwest, Saalfeld Griggs, Snow Peak Brewing, Star Entertainment DJs, Stayton Sports
Register
• Two $150 Stayton Sports Gift Cards (MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN)
• Prizes awarded to first place male & female runners in all age divisions.
Awarded Prizes & Raffle: Food, Beverages & Fun!
• Enjoy Coffee, Smoothies, Fresh Fruit & Delicious Scones
• Kids Court
• Get warmed up with energizing music
• Keepsake Prizes to all finishers
Register by May 22nd for guaranteed t-shirt
Baskets of blooms
Fessler Nursery beautifies cities with flowers
baskets into the world, decorating homes, businesses and even entire towns with 10-gallon pots overflowing in petunias, verbena, calibrachoa, sweet potato vines and creeping Charlie.
“Our shipping season runs April through July, and we deliver our plants throughout the Willamette Valley and Southwest Washington,” the nursery’s website states.
That includes an annual delivery to the city of Mount Angel, which has purchased baskets for at least 25 years, according to Katy Fessler, whose in-laws – Ken and Marie Fessler – founded the nursery in 1960.
“We started with one greenhouse,” Katy said.
Now the operation utilizes over 850,000 square feet of greenhouse space, growing an assortment of bedding plants, baskets, fuchsia and poinsettias from the tiny, patented plant plugs they receive in large boxes from as far away as Nicaragua.
them on heated benches with grow lights and a fertilizer mist before finally transplanting them in baskets planted according to each customer’s wishes.
“Mount Angel has always done a mix,” Katy said. Adding, “With a 10-gallon pot we start with 11 starts.”
And a whole lot of Fessler Nursery’s specially formulated potting soil, which gives each basket a good foundation. Then, upon delivery, it’s up to the purchaser to maintain the flowers’ health.
“It doesn’t matter what good quality basket we provide you with, if you don’t have a good system, it’ll die,” Katy confirmed.
That means watering – twice a day on hot days – applying a fertilizer twice a week and spraying for pests.
“There’s a bud worm that affects petunias,” Katy explained. “It’s that white or brown moth you see in your yard. So, you should routinely spray… you can get a nontoxic spray… starting in June.”
Baskets of flowers brighten the streets of Mount Angel every spring and summer. JIM KINGHORN
When properly cared for, the flower baskets will last until October when the temperature begins to drop. That’s when most municipal baskets make their way back to Fessler Nursery to be reused the next year.
“The pots and the iron rings are a one-time expense,” Katy said. “It’s part of what [municipalities] buy.”
But cities and wholesale accounts aren’t the only entities Fessler Nursery caters to, home gardeners are also welcome to visit the seasonal retail nursery, open April through June (and sometimes into July).
“It’s grower direct,” Katy said. “So, you’ll have good quality, and the pricing is a good value.”
Flower Basket Maintenance Tips
Determine whether you need full shade or full- un prior to purchasing plants.
Water daily – teice on hot days.
Fertilize weekly.
Routinely apply pesticides for tobacco budworm. Deadhead flowers as needed to promote growth.
A classic mixed flower basket. KEDSIRIN/ 123RF.COM
Oregon officials continue to caution residents, cities and counties about the dangers of the Mediterranean oak borer, a dangerous pest from Europe, that has been discovered in a series of Oregon counties.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture has set up a series of resources offering more information on the pest: –If you have questions or need more information go to ODA.direct/IPPM.
–To report a possible infestation of the Mediterranean oak borer call 1-800-INVADER or 1-800-468-2337 or visit oregoninvasiveshotline.org
At least six counties – Marion, Clackamas, Multnomah, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill – have experienced infestations of the beetle, said a report from the Oregon Department of Forestry.
MOB is a concern because it has infested Oregon white
Officials continue to warn about Mediterranean oak borers
oaks, sometimes with fatal consequences. The tiny beetles carry fungi that can infect a tree with a vascular wilt, which can lead to the death of the tree.
Before now, state and federal officials did not know how extensive Mediterranean oak borer’s presence in Oregon might be. Individual borers had shown up occasionally in the Willamette Valley even before the first infested Oregon white oaks were found in Troutdale and Wilsonville. During the summer of 2025 officials set up traps all over the Willamette Valley and beyond to try and determine where MOB had reached.
They found that more than 500 of the tiny borers turned up in more than 30 traps on both sides of the Willamette River from the Portland area south to Salem. Catch rates varied from a single borer at a number of traps to 160 at a trap east of Oregon City. The borers were even caught in locations where no Oregon white oak trees had been reported declining.
“The results show us that, unfortunately, Mediterranean oak borer is firmly and widely established in the northern Willamette Valley,” said Cody Holthouse, current chair of the state’s Interagency MOB Task Force.
“It is bad but we just don’t know how bad,” said Eric Hammond, a Silverton-based certified arborist. “Science is slow sometimes and we need to be OK with that. It’s bad a new pest is attacking our oaks, many standing from the Kalapuya epoch. Maybe it will be a profound tragedy like emerald ash borer is, or maybe it will just be another tick in the column of bad stuff we have done that slowly decreases the overall resilience of species. Right now we just don’t know which.”
One key bit of advice from the state, which also is in place for the emerald ash borer that is affecting ash trees, is to only use firewood that has been cut locally. Oak wood or trees that are infested should be burned, finely chipped or heat treated. Report infested oak trees to the ODA.
About the tree
Oregon white oak is an important native tree growing from British Columbia into California. Numerous species of birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles rely on the long-lived tree for food and shelter. A number of Native American people have traditionally leached out bitter tannins from the tree’s acorns, then processed their kernels into an acorn flour used in various dishes. Source: Oregon Department of Forestry
About the critter
MOB is an ambrosia beetle native to Europe, West Asia, and North Africa. It was first collected in California in 2017 and confirmed in the Napa area in 2019. It was found due to damage seen on multiple species of oak. MOB injures oak trees by boring tunnels into the sapwood and introducing fungi. These fungi cause oak wilt. It is unlikely that the beetles will be seen. It is much more likely that their damage to a tree will be found first. The most apparent symptom is black stained galleries about 1/25 of an inch wide, that branch through the wood. Source: Oregon Dept. of Agriculture
What to do
Plant an Oregon white oak, and care for those you have. Oregon white oaks need full sun, grow slowly, are 100% adapted to our climate and summer drought, and are incredibly long-lived (350+ years). Care means 1) if you have an old or ancient white oak, pay for an inspection to keep the tree and yourself safe. 2) Once a tree is established (2-3 years after planting) never irrigate because it slowly kills their roots; 100% of those toppled in the Silverton ice storm had root disease. ; Irrigation slowly - sometimes too slowly for us to recognize what is happening - kills Oregon white oaks. Source: Eric Hammond, ISA certified arborist
Your June Garden Chores
OSU’s checklist for the Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
Fruit Crops
First week: Spray cherry trees for cherry fruit fly, as necessary, if fruit is ripening. Spray for codling moth in apple and pear trees as necessary.
Continue use of pheromone traps for insect pest detection. After normal fruit drop in June, consider thinning the remainder to produce a larger crop of fruit. Pick ripe strawberries regularly to avoid fruitrotting diseases. If indicated, spray cherries at weekly intervals for fruit fly. Last week: second spray for codling moth and scab in apple and pear trees.
Flowers, Shrubs & Trees
Plant dahlias and gladioli. Learn to identify beneficial insects and plant some insectory plants (alyssum, phacelia, coriander, candytuft, sunflower, yarrow,
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dill) to attract them to your garden. Check with local nurseries for best selections. Spray with Orthene to control adult root weevils in rhododendrons, azaleas, primroses, and other ornamentals. Or, use beneficial nematodes if soil temperature is above 55 degrees F. Birch trees dripping means aphids are present. Control as needed. Remove seed pods after blooms have dropped from rhododendrons, azaleas. Prune lilacs, forsythia, rhododendrons and azaleas after blooming.
Lawn Care
If green lawns are being maintained through the summer, fertilize near the end of the month. Set mower blade at .75 to 1 inch for bentgrass lawns; 1.5 to 2.5 inches for bluegrasses, fine fescues, and ryegrasses.
Fresh Vegetables
Fertilize vegetable garden one month after plants emerge by side dressing alongside the rows.
Harvest thinnings from new plantings of lettuce, onion and chard. Construct trellises for tomatoes, cucumbers, pole beans and vining ornamentals. Use organic mulches to conserve soil moisture. An inch or two of sawdust, barkdust or composted leaves will minimize loss of water through evaporation. Blossoms on squash and cucumbers begin to drop: nothing to worry about. Control garden weeds by pulling, hoeing or mulching.
Control aphids on vegetables as needed by hosing off with water or by using insecticidal soap or a registered insecticide. Watch for cabbage worms, 12-spotted beetles on beans and lettuce, flea beetles in lettuce. Remove the insect pests or treat with labeled pesticides. Spray peas as first pods form, if necessary, to control weevils. Late this month, begin to monitor for late blight on tomatoes.
Late June
Move houseplants outside for cleaning, grooming, repotting and summer growth. Make sure raised beds receive enough water for plants to stay free of drought stress. Plant sweet corn, other tender vegetables.
Sowing Seeds
Winter’s slumber has melted away. It is time once again to kick off our warm, fuzzy slippers and step outside and feel the earth’s soil between our toes. The garden gates await to be opened and our pots warm with the sun as if they are begging us to fill them with rich soil so their work can begin.
No matter the size of garden, from a collection of pots, old barrels on a patio or perhaps a small simple patch in the yard, a garden is a garden and the time has arrived to embrace the weeds and ready the soil. Seed packets are bursting with eagerness to jump into place. The days of dreaming of fresh blooms is over, let the blooms come alive.
No need to dig or till up the ground. Gardens grow successfully with simple methods. Layering cardboard on top of the ground and adding rich garden soil in mounds or in rows over the cardboard, is a sufficient no dig method. This method of growing has proven to be quite a success and allows for growing healthy produce without disturbing the earth.
With YouTube and the internet easily accessible, research “no dig garden” methods or check with your local nursery for advice. Another helpful resource is visiting with your local community gardens. Community gardens may still have a free or low cost garden plot for you to rent for the growing season. It’s great if you desire to grow healthy produce using your own hands or want to garden beside others and share in the garden experience.
No matter the method of learning or space to build a garden, it all begins with one small seed and one handful of soil at a time. Just remember to breathe and enjoy the process. Growing a garden has no judgment. The plants are overjoyed just to have you help them along. After all, gardeners grow with the plants. Learning as the vegetables ripen even when weeds and bugs cause havoc, we trudge on and learn with each new garden season.
So, embrace the sunshine and sprinkle the seeds into the soil. Carrots, peas, kale, and radish, to name a few, love and require the last of the crisp weather in order to germinate properly. Make sure to read your seed packets. Every seed has its own special dance and we are the seeds partner in learning the right steps to help them grow.
Amongst the flowers and in the grass is a great place to rekindle a budding romance. Let the garden games begin.
