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JULY 2020
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THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF NEWBERRY COUNTRY
Volume 19 Issue 7
‘It’s All About the Team’ at the ‘New’ Restore, Where Second-Hand Doesn’t Mean Second-Best 50 % OFF
“Great stuff at a great price for a great cause,” doesn’t begin to describe what people can expect at La Pine’s ReStore since a new leadership team has transformed the operation. “The changes at ReStore are definitely evident, with customers commenting that ‘there’s a new, good vibe here,’” said Mat Wirth, assistant manager.
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“We have a lot of personality, and an awesome team.” The ReStore staff responsible for helping Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver accomplish its mission consists of (left to right) Richard Bowe, Sateara Michael, Mark Goheen, Toni Lewis, manager, and Mat Wirth, assistant manager. ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
“We filled this 30’ x 50’ building behind ReStore in just two weeks,” said Mat Wirth, assistant manager, “and still needed more storage room – which made us wonder how we managed before it was built.”
E L A S Recently organized product categories include windows (as shown in photo), paint, bicycles, automotive, plumbing, appliances, and lawn & garden.
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The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
JULY 2020
REGIONAL NEWS
Dechutes County Sheriff’s Office Adds Blue Line Safety Zone in La Pine The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) has added a Blue Line Safety Zone in the parking lot of its La Pine substation to deter those who would take advantage of -- or do harm to -- people in our community. This clearly marked and well-lit location is designed to be used for common exchanges such as child visitation exchanges and the legal buying and selling of merchandise from various online websites.
Although DCSO will not monitor, or get involved in, any exchanges or transactions, the safety zone is under 24-hour video surveillance, and if the need arises, can be referred to. Community members should call 911 from this location should an emergency arise. This is the third Blue Line Safety Zone in Deschutes County. The first two locations are the parking lots of DCSO’s Public Safety Campus in Bend and its Sisters substation.
United Way Awards $8,000 Grant to St. Vincent de Paul of La Pine Your local Verizon Wireless Retailer! LittledTech.com • 16410 3rd St. • La Pine
How P.O. Box Holders Complete the 2020 Census
If you have a P.O. box, know that the U.S. Census will NOT mail to any post office box in the country, including the Sunriver/La Pine area – which is one of the most undercounted areas in Oregon In just 10 minutes, you can complete your personal census questionnaire by going online to 2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020. No special code is needed.
Allocations of federal funds for important community services such as hospitals, schools and roads are related to the population count of each area. Under-counted communities are under-funded communities. Please go online or call today. Billions of dollars of federal allocations for our area are at stake.
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THE
EAGLE
The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
P.O. Box 329 La Pine, OR 97739 www.NewberryEagle.com (951) 330-6288 Andrea Hine Editor & Staff Writer andreaehine@gmail.com Sandy White Eagle Creative Director sgoldeneagle@NewberryEagle.com Michelle Stover Advertising & Sales Manager sales@NewberryEagle.com Richard McDonnell Distribution Manager mcdonnell2020@outlook.com Volunteer Staff Kathy Matthews, Social Media Board of Directors Terry Mowry, President Kathy Matthews, Secretary Dan Harshbarger, Treasurer April McDaniel, Board Member
Advertising and Sales, Michelle Stover sales@NewberryEagle.com (951) 330-6288 Advertising Policy The Newberry Eagle, a non-profit public benefit entity, will not be held responsible for errors that are discovered after printing unless they substantially damage the message being conveyed, and then, only to the extent of the space involved where the error occurs. See more info: visit www.NewberryEagle.com/About/Policies Article & Advertising Submission Due Dates & Information All submissions, including camera ready ads, articles, Letters to the Editor, photographs and calendar events must be submitted to The Newberry Eagle on or before 21st of each month. Please upload directly to our website at www.NewberryEagle.com. Click button: “Submit articles & ads." See more info: visit our website /About/Policies. Editorial Policy The Newberry Eagle welcomes your articles, letters to the editor, photographs and story ideas. Stories should be 500 words or less, Letters to the Editor should be 250 words or less. Digital photos must be large format (300 dpi at best). Upload to www. NewberryEagle.com. See more info: visit our website /About/Policies. The Newberry Eagle is a nonprofit newspaper which operates under the auspices of the La Pine Community Action Team (LCAT). The Newberry Eagle serves the communities of La Pine, Sunriver, as well as No. Klamath and No. Lake Counties. We strive for accuracy, fairness, truth, independence, honesty, impartiality, transparency, facebook.com/ accountability, respect and excellence in reporting, editing and publishing. This monthly newspaper is available free of charge at numerous locations throughout our area.
Since the local Central Oregon COVID-19 Response Fund’s inception in March of this year, $135,000 has been distributed to 29 local and regional nonprofit programs that are meeting emergency needs and providing essential services for our community’s most vulnerable, deducting no administrative fees. Most recently, United Way has funded three additional nonprofit programs with
$23,000 in grant monies. They are: St. Vincent de Paul of La Pine ($8,000); Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon ($10,000); and J Bar J Youth Services ($5,000). To learn more about United Way’s COVID-19 Recovery & Resilience Fund, or to contribute, contact: https://www. deschutesunitedway.org/central-oregoncovid-19-recovery-resilience/
The Newberry Eagle Welcomes Your Opinions & Ideas The Newberry Eagle takes its role as the community newspaper of southern Deschutes County very seriously. To paraphrase a famous quote, we consider our monthly issues to be “for the people” in the areas we serve, as well as “by the people” with a local editorial/production staff, board of directors, and advertiser base. Now we’d like to make sure we’re also “of the people” by offering our readers the opportunity to share their opinions and ideas with us on an ongoing basis. We welcome your articles (350 words maximum), letters to the editor (no longer than 250 words), digital photographs (large format, ideally 300 dpi), and story suggestions on issues you’d like to see covered. We reserve the right to edit all submissions, which must include the sender’s name, address and phone number, and be received by the 21st of the month. Civility is required, whatever the subject, and no personal attacks on any individual, business or government entity will be considered.
Please send your submissions to Andrea Hine, editor, at andreaehine@gmail.com.
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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La Pine Pays Tribute to Doby Fugate, ‘One of the Best Guys Ever’ By Theresa Hane, Contributing Writer Blustery weather did not deter a crowd of La Pine residents waiting for Doby Fugate and his lovely wife Cindy to arrive at the Senior Center. And when a limousine followed by a full sheriff’s office escort pulled up, cheering and clapping accompanied the man of the hour as he walked past people of all ages who had come to give the couple a hearty send-off to their next adventure in a new home near Roseburg. Anyone who has received Fugate’s hallmark “peppermint handshake” knows it represents his outlook on life -- give with a smile. Fugate told the crowd of well-wishers about growing up poor, but learning early on to be a good citizen by staying out of trouble, helping others and doing the best you can throughout life. Fugate has touched the lives of young and old alike. Jamie Donahue remembers him coaching her foster children in baseball. “He made a lifelong impact on their lives and treated each athlete with respect.” She has also waded through four feet of snow
with him to check on homeless people, which led to creation of the Warming Shelter. Donahue recalls how Fugate – the ‘king of fundraising’ would solicit money for Christmas baskets in La Pine and Gilchrist. “He would go into a business, and the owner would jokingly ask how much it would cost to get him to leave.” Anne Gawith remembers Fugate as “one of the best guys ever, friend, volunteer and he taught us how to be a good person.” “When we think of our community and the people who lead by example, Doby is that guy. If somebody needed a hand up, he was there. Doby believes in the power of people,” shared Terry Mowry. Joby Harmon summed up Fugate’s contributions to the community. “He is a hard-working guy who has been there for everyone, whether in archery, baseball, rodeo, sporting events or leading by example.” Fugate told the crowd that he has lived in La Pine for 25 years, and “a big part of my heart is here.”
New La Pine Fire District Engine Replaces 26-Year-Old Predecessor
By Staff Writer The new Pierce Type III Wildland Fire Engine at La Pine Fire District’s Huntington substation replaces one that it bought in 1994 – and which has been kept in perfectly-maintained order for 26 years. (A new sister fire engine, received in 2017 and purchased with a FEMA grant, is located at the LPFD’s Sunriver area station.) Both older fire engines were donated by LPFD to Walker Range FPA in Gilchrist, and are currently serving the area.
According to Chief Mike Supkis, the primary differences between newer versus older models are sophisticated safety enhancements such as a four-firefighter (versus two-firefighter) cab, and seated seat-belt positioning. “The newest addition to LPFD’s arsenal is also balanced and weighted, and is less likely to roll over, while also handling really well,” he commented. “In terms of actual firefighting, certain basic aspects remain un-
Tribute Paid to Gil & Corinne Martinez ‘In Appreciation for All You Have Done for the Community’ By Staff Writer “In appreciation for all you have done for the community, the La Pine Senior Activity Center dedicates this mural to Gil & Corinne Martinez & Wilderness Garbage,” declared the plaque handed to Corinne Martinez by Roger Kelso of La Pine Signs (as shown in photo). The presentation highlighted a ceremony that unveiled large poster-size murals of historic La Pine photos, appropriately displayed in the Senior Center’s Heritage Room. Attendees included Stu Martinez, who credited the people he met through the Senior Center with his decision to move to La Pine. Martinez and his parents, owners of Wilderness Garbage, have been supporters of the Senior Center since its inception, as speakers including Jamie Donahue (the nonprofit’s manager) detailed. Donahue also recalled that when she first moved here, and was working as a waitress and bartender at La Pine Inn, Gil and Corinne Martinez “would bring in the whole Wilderness Garbage crew every week and buy them breakfast.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Ignoring Fire Regulations in La Pine Can Cost You – Just As It Did 25 Years Ago
As reported in the Bulletin’s “Yesteryear” section for 1995, a blaze that forced residents of 150 homes in La Pine to evacuate was traced to a campfire built by four teenagers in the woods behind a mobile home. Burning 50 acres of lodgepole pine before crews were able to bring it under control, the fire necessitated calling in about 100 firefighters from Klamath, Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties after the governor involved the Conflagration Act. According to a spokesman from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the property owner could be held liable for firefighting costs if an investigation confirmed the cause. This consequence is just as valid today, affirmed Chief Mike Supkis of the La Pine Fire District. He cited three local incidents where “inappropriate” behavior – such as burning debris after the season has been closed, having a campfire without the required permit, and throwing fireplace ashes into brush outside the home occurred. These incidents all resulted in fines
The long-standing respect that Doby Fugate has for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is mutual – as shown by the contingent that escorted Fugate and his wife Cindy to a send-off ceremony at the Senior Center. Lt. Joe DeLuca (second from left) is shown with four of his colleagues, and Fugate (third from right) in front of “his” limousine.
FREE Household Hazardous Waste
FREE Household Hazardous Collection Event Waste Collection in Redmond in Event La Pine Saturday, a.m.-–11p.m. p.m. Saturday,July July18, 11, 2020 2020 || 99 a.m.
La PineCounty High School Deschutes Fair & Expo 51633 Coach Pine, Parking Lot 3800 SW Road, AirportLa Way, LotFront B, Redmond Household items accepted will include:
25 years ago in La Pine, four teenagers built a campfire that turned into a blaze and forced evacuation of 150 homes. Now, as was true then, “inappropriate” behavior can result in fines as well as being charged for fire suppression costs. Campfires can be safe when those igniting them follow all fire permit regulations. (as levied by the state), with some of those responsible even being charged for the fire suppression costs.
• Rechargeable batteries • Fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides • Fluorescent light bulbs/tubes • Cleaning products & poisons
• Fuels & thinners • Aerosols • Oil filters & antifreeze • Automotive chemicals
• Pool & spa chemicals • Mercury items • Paints & stains • Propane tanks
Items NOT accepted: BUSINESS-GENERATED HAZARDOUS WASTE, explosives, fireworks, ammunition, gas cylinders, drums, radioactive and medical waste. Deschutes County encourages persons with disabilities to participate in all programs and activities. This event/location is accessible to people with disabilities. If you need accommodations to make participation possible, or to request this information in an alternative format please contact:
Deschutes County Department of Solid Waste (541) 317-3163 www.deschutes.org/sw
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The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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Breaking Down the Most Ambitious, ‘Everyone Needs the Opportunity to Comprehensive Public Works Project Feel Successful,’ Says Owner of New Athletic Sporting Goods Store in La Pine’s History (The following information was provided by Jake Obrist, manager of public works.)
What Does This Project Entail? The massive $25 million infrastructure project is designed to connect two neighborhoods in northwest La Pine – Cagle and Glenwood -- to the city’s water and wastewater system, while also expanding its overall capacity. If not addressed, it is estimated that the city’s municipal water demand would outstrip its existing supply by 2035 as La Pine continues to grow at its current rate of three percent. On the wastewater side, a total of 275 homes that previously used septic tanks will be impacted, thereby increasing demand by more than a third. How Is It Being Funded? The project cost of $25 million is being funded through grants, low-interest loans and $2.5 million in City of La Pine budget allocations. It is the most ambitious, comprehensive public works undertaking in the town’s history, with the construction of its original sewer and water systems (in the 1980s and late 1990s, respectively) coming in a distant second. What Will the Project Cost Existing & New Customers? Typically, customers are required to pay fees when connecting to city water and wastewater systems that can total as much as $20,000 (factoring in connection of pipes, and installing required infrastructure such as septic tanks, plumbing for water and sewer, water meters and backflow equipment). These costs are being absorbed by the City of La Pine as part of the overall project. (Those with existing wells can retain them for outside use such as irrigation.) Another project goal was to prevent current property owners from experiencing a spike in rates as the system’s capacity is expanded. Instead, it is estimated that they will see only a slight increase – between $5 and $10 per month for an average single-family home. What Is the Project’s Most Visible Aspect? The most visible above-ground part of the project is the new water reservoir, pump station and well (being built next to the original reservoir and its two adjacent wells) on Finley
ry’s colorful and immaculate shop range from yoga mats and sneaker deodorizers to a glow-in-the-dark bowling set; playground and golf balls; swim shorts; football, basCONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Manager of Public Works Jake Obrist is shown with Maxx, a chocolate lab who turned one year old on Cinco de Mayo. “He’s a good boy,” said Obrist, “and has become a muchloved and much-kissed member of our family.” Butte Road, which has a capacity of at least 500,000 gallons – thereby increasing total capacity for La Pine’s growing population by about 40 percent. The new reservoir will also provide “redundancy” (or additional reliability) – like a back-up generator in a home or business – should problems arise with the original one, thereby ensuring a continual water supply for the town’s residents. Improvements to the wastewater treatment system include a new storage lagoon, two pivots that irrigate 210 acres, a new septage receiving station, and other miscellaneous upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant. Current Status & Completion of the Project? The design phase of the project is 99.9 percent completed, with bidding on the final construction phase scheduled to begin this September. It is estimated that construction will take two years, with completion of the project in its entirety by the end of 2022.
FINANCIAL $ Focus by Bob Cox
Nearing Retirement? What Questions Should You Ask?
The recent market volatility has affected just about everybody’s financial and investment situations – so, if you were planning to retire soon, will it still be possible? Of course, with so many people’s jobs being affected by the coronavirus pandemic, your retirement plans may have been thrown into confusion. But assuming your employment is stable, you’ll need to review your retirement goals and the progress you’ve made toward achieving them, so you can determine what moves, if any, you need to make. Then, ask yourself some questions. For starters, are you flexible enough to make some changes to your retirement lifestyle? If you can find ways to make it less costly, you may not need to change your current investment strategy significantly.
By Staff Writer “I want all the kids in town to be able to play outside with affordable athletic sporting goods. Everyone needs the opportunity to get out of the house and feel successful.” With that entrepreneurial motivation, it’s not surprising that the owner of Back on the Rack Sporting Goods, Bryanne Berry, has already attracted a steady mix of customers – this writer (who bought a pair of gently-used dumbbells) among them. The mother of three active kids herself, Berry explained that “I got tired of going to Bend every time their feet grew. I love to see that look of relief on the face of parents when they discover the wide array of new and used sporting equipment and merchandise carried here.” And she isn’t exaggerating. The items in Ber-
Also, if necessary, are you willing to work longer than you had originally projected, so you can you put more money into your IRA and 401(k)? Here’s another question: When should you take Social Security? The longer you wait, the bigger your monthly payments. Even in the midst of uncertainty, you still have choices. Let me help you consider them carefully to make the decisions that work for you. Bob Cox, Financial Advisor Edward Jones Investments 16345 6th St. #101 La Pine, OR 97739
(541) 536-8822 Member SIPC
Message from General Manager Dave Schneider In accordance with recent steps taken by the State of Oregon, Midstate Electric Cooperative will begin a measured and gradual approach as we look to return to normal work and business practices. Our employees have been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in the field, office and remotely to continue providing you with safe and reliable service. We are planning to reopen our lobby to the public on Monday, June 15, 2020. We will resume our normal office hours of 7:00 am - 5:30 pm Monday - Thursday with special measures being taken to protect members and employees. There will be clear barriers installed at the counters, social distancing indicators will be posted in the lobby, and members will be encouraged to adhere to CDC Guidelines. The health and safety of our members and employees remain MEC’s top priority. We will continue to closely monitor the latest developments regarding COVID-19 to ensure we are following the latest recommendations from local and state officials, and CDC. Remember, most services can be handled remotely. We are asking you to continue using these services rather than visiting the MEC office at this time. Accounts can be managed on SmartHub (standard billing) and, MyUsage (prepaid billing) programs located on our website, www.mse. coop. Payments can be made at the payment drop box, payment kiosk or by phone at 541-536-2126 option 2. For questions or concerns about your service, call 541-536-2126. To provide financial assistance to members negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, MEC temporarily suspended service disconnections. MEC will not be discounting, excusing, or in any other method relieving a member of their energy bill amounts owed before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We urge all members to make every effort to keep their accounts current. If you anticipate problems paying your electric bill, please contact our member services representatives at 541-536-2126 option 3 as soon as possible. There are several energy-assistance programs available and they can work with you on a payment plan. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
JULY 2020
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‘The Reserve in the Pines Is Our Legacy Project’
By Andrea Hine, Editor Large lot sizes (up to 10,000 square feet), three parks, hundreds of new trees, and 40,000 square feet of turf just begin to tell the story of The Reserve in the Pines. Also planned for this ambitious 191-home development are places to gather (both inside and outside), 18-foot-wide walking paths going all the way through its 55 acres, a dog park, and interior streets whose width of 36 feet provide additional safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Not to mention two 14,000-square-foot mixed-use buildings featuring condominiums and commercial possibilities such as a bakery, pub (perhaps pet friendly with its own “yappy hour”), coffee shop with frozen yogurt and ice cream, athletic facility, and office space. “We want to build a community within a community,” said Vic Russell, “where people can stroll along walking paths, kids can ride their bikes from their homes to a park, and parents can sit up on a knoll and look down at their children playing. Neighbors will know their neighbors. “Our goal is to ensure that The Reserve in the Pines is livable, sustainable and affordable for all ages and lifestyles,” he continued. “We’re building something to share with everyone in La Pine.” Added his wife Vicki Russell, “we’ve spent a lot of time talking about livability, which has always been important to Vic and me. This emphasis is reflected in both the project’s concept and design – which took 18 months to develop with the really incredible team that Vic put together, including a traffic engineer, land-use attorney, and both a civil and planning engineer. And,” she said, “the community has CC&Rs (to regulate the appearance and maintenance of the properties), ARC Review and a homeowner’s association (HOA).” Emphasized Vic Russell, who counts St. Charles Family Care Clinic (“such an added asset to the community”) and Mid Oregon Credit Union as his other proudest local achievements, “The Reserve in the Pines is our legacy project. It’s my dream and Vicki’s nightmare,” he added with humor. Elaborating on his choice of the word “nightmare,” Russell provided an example. “Naming streets is like naming a kid. We couldn’t repeat any names that are already in use,
Features of Cascadia architecture include inviting entryways and porches, and textures and colors harmonious with the surrounding natural setting. even if the streets are located in a different town and zip code such as Bend. But you need to pick your battles. “The timing for this project is critical,” he continued. “Five years ago, La Pine would not have accepted the plan. Yet now, even with the very ambitious schedule that we had set, both the City Council and Planning Commission came through with flying colors – and helped facilitate our getting through the requisite bureaucracy in half the standard time frame.” Land has already been cleared for Phase I of The Reserve in the Pines -- consisting of 51 home sites, walking trails, and a park with its own covered area. Homesite construction is scheduled to begin this summer, followed by commercial mixed-use in spring 2021. “The uniform reaction to our plans has been positive with a lot of excitement,” noted Russell. “Not only because of features such as parks, underground sprinkler systems to combat fires, and safe streets, but because the customized yet affordable homes will hold their value and be a good investment for people.
Cascadia architecture uses natural materials such as wood and stone to establish a connection with the regional landscape. This style will be reflected in the customized homes at The Reserve in the Pines. “There’s also a lot of interest in the condominiums, which has surprised us,” he admitted. “They’ll be good for people who don’t want to leave the area as they age (but no longer have interest in property maintenance), as well as for those who want a second home that is more affordable than other area options. We’re also on the right track for millennials, where typically both parents are working, but they still want to play.” The Russells noted that “the project will provide needed workforce housing, as well as huge tax revenues for the city – which is a win-win for everybody.” This is not to say that The Reserve in the Pines – initially conceived more than a decade ago – hasn’t taken a toll on the couple. Recently, Vic Russell – known for his hands-on approach despite a disparity in age with his younger work crews – got down in a ditch and lifted a heavy piece of pipe, to the detriment of his back and the chagrin of his wife. “An employee told on you,” Vicki Russell admonished.
Upcoming events July 4th- Open parking for fireworks (Donations appreciated) July 11- CLEAN UP DAY July 19- Buckle Series Play Day August 15- Buckle Series Play Day September 27- Buckle Series Play Day October 11- LAST Buckle Series Play Day October 25- Halloween Play Day Play Day Update - Buckle series to end in October, see lapinerodeo.com for qualification rules Open Rides - See Facebook.com/lapinerodeo
Raffles
We will be doing several raffles. All proceeds will be split with CAN Cancer-- 50/50 drawing; Tack Set; Golf/1 night stay in Sunriver; Tickets are $1 each or 10 for $8. Message lapinerodeo@gmail.com for more information; pictures on lapinerodeo.com and facebook
Thank You We would like to thank the community and all of our sponsors for their support during this time. We plan to continue to host smaller events and rent the arena out for others to host events. We are still accepting sponsors and donations to help keep the rodeo on track for 2021. We are also looking for major sponsors/donors to help with repairing or purchasing new bleachers for the rodeo association. We have a couple of quotes but are a long ways off from being able to afford those at this time.
We would like to thank Queen Desi Hanson for continuing to represent La Pine Rodeo! We appreciate you! We would like to congratulate you on agreeing to extend your reign into 2021!
Contact information: LaPineRodeo.com info@LaPineRodeo.com
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The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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‘ We’ve Got to Feed Our Seniors,’ Vowed Jamie Donahue When Covid-19 Shut Down Senior Center By Andrea Hine, Editor
“I dance for donations,” joked Jamie Donahue er seniors,” noted Donahue, “and we also called La as she twirled in front of a Little Deschutes Lodge Pine Community Health Center and St. Charles to resident about to hand her some cash. Busy deliv- inform them of our plans.” In addition, KTVZ gave ering the day’s lunches, and accompanied by her the effort a boost by covering it on an evening news “right-hand person” Don Laibach, the two masked segment. visitors then moved on to the second building – “When we first started, three people came by,” where they found an eager group awaiting their she recalled, a number that quickly mushroomed. carefully marked bags. Donahue assured them that On a recent Wednesday, to give a sense of how im“we’ve got food,” in a tone of affectionate famil- portant the service has become, a total of 142 meals iarity, as her sidekick added, “these ladies are so were distributed – with 68 deliveries and 74 drivesweet.” throughs. “And we sold out again.” Adept at their task, and obviously enjoying the Lt. Joe DeLuca of the Deschutes County Sherinterchanges, Donahue (manager of the Senior Ac- iff’s Office (and a Senior Activity Center board tivity Center), Laibach (a retired lieutenant from member) was an integral part of the lunch effort the San Diego Sheriff’s Office) and a host of other from the beginning. Accompanied by as many as volunteers joined forces to make sure that those in eight DCSO colleagues on a given day to pick up the community who need them receive nutritious and distribute meals, he said that “I enjoy this – it’s lunches three days a week. a great way to help our seniors, and check to see Although the nonprofit protectively shut down how they’re doing. We’ve been told that our visits even before Oregon’s governor issued Covid-19 ‘made my day’ and are a real highlight. It’s been guidelines, Donahue wasn’t about to abandon a awesome.” critical part of its mission. “We’ve got to feed our Donahue has also received response from reDan Laibach, a former lieutenant and seniors,” she vowed, and began developing an cipients that is understandably and overwhelm32-year veteran with the San Diego ambitious delivery and pick-up program that has ingly positive. “I have so many letters and handSheriff’s Office, first encountered attracted financial support from United Way, the made cards thanking us for providing this service,” Jamie Donahue’s persuasiveness at Sunriver Women’s Club, and Farmers Insurance she said, “and commenting on our ‘wonderful, the Rhubarb Festival two years ago – well-balanced meals.’ I am in awe of how this idea where he found himself selling beer and agent Karen Brannon, among others. A Facebook posting and word of mouth helped took off – it’s a good feeling.” wine soon after being introduced. She inform the community initially – “seniors told othdescribes him now as “my right-hand person.” Jamie Donahue and a volunteer pick up packed bags that are now ready for distribution as far To accomplish this effort requires south as the Klamath County line. “One man, acadre of volunteers (who must pass a background check), and Jamie Donahue a retired veteran who has been homebound for two years, is waiting for back surgery, and can said they “came out of the woodwork to now only walk a few steps,” she said. “He is so help us.” Shown are several preparing a happy that we’re able to help him.” hot meal in the Senior Center’s kitchen.
One of many positive aspects of the lunch initiative has been winning over residents at both Little Deschutes Lodge residences who, according to Jamie Donahue, rarely came over to enjoy the Senior Center’s hospitality. “We’d maybe get eight or nine at meals,” she said, “and we’re now delivering dozens of them three times a week. Some even phone me on a non-lunch day, thinking we’ve forgotten to bring over their food.”
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Senior Center Distributing 1,600+ Lunches Per Month
“We’re serving 1,620 – 1,645 lunches a month,” calculated Jamie Donahue, quantifying the importance of the Senior Center’s drive-by and delivery lunch program, which she initiated after Oregon’s governor issued the first coronavirus guidelines in March. “As restrictions have eased, the number of deliveries has gone down somewhat as people are now able to get out of their homes. But that isn’t the case with those who have been housebound for years – which identified a need we hadn’t realized existed until Covid-19.”
In addition to upholding the law as a lieutenant with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Joe DeLuca (shown here), a member of the Senior Center’s board of directors, helped Jamie Donahue come up with the meal service idea. “We were talking about the ramifications of Covid-19, and trying to decide ‘what is our plan?’ That’s how it all began,” she credited.
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The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
JULY 2020
Page 7
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‘My Customers Want Their Produce’ – And La Pine’s Vegetable Man Plans to Offer It Year Round
Volunteers Tackle Trash Along U.S. 97
By Staff Writer Jody Taylor found his calling early in life – or did it find him? “Starting as a ‘cart kid,’ at the local grocery store, I was always one of the fastest among the boys,” he recalled, Taylor thrived on being asked to “do this and do that” by those who appreciated his abilities and, as a result, was given the nickname “Johnny on the spot.” Moving up to management roles over time, “learning the ins and outs of the grocery business, including scheduling and ordering,” he ended up spending a total of 21 years in this field, most recently with WinCo and Save Mart in the Bay Area. “It was a very successful cleanup,” de- cleanup in 2020, and we plan on doing another After moving to Central Oregon, Tayscribed Colleen Scott, after she and a group of one later in the year.” lor began working with the owner of The friends – along with Lions Club and Ya Ya SisPictured (from left to right) are: Ann Taylor, Vegetable Man stands in Bend and La terhood volunteers – picked up trash along both Mimi Rydell, Colleen Scott, MJ Hare, Noreen Pine, until being offered the opportunity sides of U.S 97 between Wickiup Junction and Doran, Gael Berhow and Clarice Roley. Not to buy the local one last winter. The two 1st Street on a recent Friday. “This is our second shown is Melissa Bethel, who took the photo. men have continued their professional relationship, however, in terms of obtaining the best produce from a variety of area sources. Taylor admits that “there was a little bit of a learning curve” in adIn compliance with Governor Kate Brown’s mandate limiting justing to the different travel and meetings to protect citizens from the COVID-19 environment of a produce virus, Midstate Electric Cooperative held a limited annual stand versus a large gromeeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. cery operation. “For one thing,” he explained, “beMEC’s bylaws require a meeting of the membership in April or cause we only deal in perMay and an election of the Board of Directors. For purposes ishables, I have to touch of the election, MEC held a limited meeting before the reguevery single item – versus lar Board of Director meeting. Board elections took place by stocking shelves with a mailed-in ballot only. No other business matters or actions can of corn, for example were taken at the limited annual meeting other than those nec– to ensure that the fruits essary for the election of the Directors. and vegetables have enough moisture, are • RESIDENTIAL Board of Director election results: Ken Wilson–District 5 and attractively laid out, • COMMERCIAL Alan Parks–District 7 were unopposed and re-elected to serve and remain fresh. • RECYCLE DEPOT the members for another three-year term. Board officers for • DROP BOX SERVICE This attentiveness 2020 are Alan Parks–President, Gordon DeArmond–Vice Prespays off in our low four percent shrink ident and Vic Russell–Secretary/ rate (translation from Treasurer. Other directors on the HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 8am-4pm grocery jargon: how 51420 RUSSELL ROAD Fri. 8am-1pm board include Diana Cox, Bud P.O. BOX 2669 • LA PINE, OR 97739 much you’re losKendall, Robert Reed and Ron SERVING LA PINE, GILCHRIST, Phone (541) 536-1194 ing).” CRESCENT, CRESCENT LAKE JCT. Fax (541) 536-9507 Sommerfeldt. Taylor also conwww.WildernessGarbage.com & CHEMULT fesses that “I’m actually kind of hyper” -- which comes as no surprise to customers who have seen his nonstop momentum. Yet his management style has always been to “keep it light, as nothing is that serious, and to treat employees with respect. “I go like a madman, but don’t expect anyone to emulate my pace,” he said. “’Just try your best, and have fun,’ is all I ask.” And there are other keys to his success. “I love the public, and making jokes with some of my regular customers. I’ll give them a hard time if their favorite football team loses, for example, www.lapinehealth.org and threaten to charge them double. The customers joke right back.” La Pine | Huntington Rd Taylor’s fiancée Kate McCormick is also an Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm; Sat, 9am-1pm integral part of the operation. “She handles proWalk-In: Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm motion on social media, answers all calls and bakes bread so popular that we recently sold 50 La Pine School-Based loaves in just five days,” he pointed out.” (They Health Center | Coach Rd met when she was a customer.) Mon, Wed & Fri, 8am-5pm In addition to keeping his stand open yearround (with heaters and hot chocolate during People of all ages need to have a wellness visit each year to make sure Gilchrist School-Based colder months), Taylor is working on plans to everything is running smoothly and to spot potential medical issues Health Center | Mississippi Dr sell off-season vegetable boxes. As he explains, Tues & Thurs, 8am-5pm that could be looming so that you can be ahead of the curve and stay as “eighty percent of what we sell during the sumhealthy as possible! mer is also available in the winter. My customers Christmas Valley | Bay Rd want their produce, and my goal is to give it to them – even after the snow hits.” Schedule your “tune-up” (Annual Wellness Visit) today! Mon-Thurs, 8am-5pm
Midstate Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting
(541) 536-3435
Your car isn’t the only thing that needs a tune-up...
Fri, 9:30am-4:30pm
Page 8
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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Community Kitchen Now Offers ‘It’s All About the Team,’ Claims Manager of ‘New’ ReStore, Free Showers Once a Month Where Second Hand Doesn’t Mean Second Best
By Andrea Hine, Editor Manager Toni Lewis, “one of those lost babies who lives between La Pine and Gilchrist,” walked into ReStore in 2018 when the previous manager needed volunteer help. “As they didn’t lock the door, I stayed.” She immediately saw room for improvement: “My OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) had a stroke, and I saw that a lot of issues needed addressing, including safety and maintenance.” Tackling these issues required more than her determination, which is considerable. “Communication is huge,” she claimed, “not just in staff meetings, which we have constantly, but in how we deal with each other and with our customers.” According to Wirth, another key factor is that “systems, procedures and policies have been instituted, giving ReStore a structure that had been lacking. One result is that customers comment daily on how clean the store is, and compliment the staff for being so helpful and knowledgeable. Plus, I can’t emphasize the importance of our volunteers enough.” Lewis and Wirth have instituted a clear delineation of responsibilities. Lewis handles the ReStore’s front end, while Wirth is responsible for the back of the store and the outdoor area. “People think that I’m the cashier, which is fine with me, as I prefer to remain behind the scenes,” said Lewis. “She’s very humble,” Wirth noted. Detailing changes in his area of the operation, Wirth said that “we’re working hard to streamline everything, which includes removing clutter, getting merchandise off the ground and out of the dirt, and organizing it according to product category. Not only is this more pleasing to the eye, but it’s safer – both for our staff and our customers. “We’ve also added new housing to further segregate merchandise such as doors, which are now stacked and labeled with their dimensions,” he continued. “Customers really appreciate what’s been done, saying that ‘now I can see what I’m shopping for, rather than having to hunt through a jumble of items to find what
I need.’ Comments like this make you feel great.” ReStore’s financial situation echoes its enhanced multi-community appeal. According to Dwane Krumme, executive director of the Habitat affiliate, “sales have increased by approximately 45 percent on a year-overyear comparison over the past 24 months, and contribute significantly to Habitat’s ability to succeed in its mission. In fact,” he continued, “when ReStore reopened after its 12-week closure due to Covid-19 restrictions, we had one of our biggest days ever.” Lewis, who is justifiably proud of these accolades, nevertheless insisted that “it’s not about me. It’s all about the team. ReStore is definitely blessed in terms of our staff, customers and donations. I love coming to work.” Lewis added that “we’re working more with the community now, including LPHS students enrolled in Career Transitions who are being taught life skills and accountability. They help out by doing various tasks here, and we’ve become like mentors. Frankly, it’s as rewarding for us as it is for the students. “We also welcome people who are working off their community service obligations or who are building up sweat equity as soon-to-be Habitat homeowners.” But, she emphasized, “we expect the same accountability from them as from our other volunteers. ‘That’s what you’re here for,’ I remind them, ‘so let’s get ‘er done.’” “She’s a slave driver,” Wirth characterized. Each added a final comment. “We want ReStore to be a fun place to come to,” Wirth noted.” Said Lewis, “If I can make Phil Northcote (a Habitat board member) smile, it makes my day. And he smiles every time he comes into the store.” As does Wade Watson, board president. “It’s a very attractive place to shop,” he noted. “My compliments to Toni and her team.” (ReStore is located at 52684 US 97 in La Pine. Tel: 541-536-3234.) Hours of operation are Tuesday/Wednesday - 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Friday/Saturday - 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Gordy’s
Restaurant & Truck Stop
• Fuel Station • Convenience Store • Drivers’ Lounge • Banquet Room
541-536-6006
Get a Free Coffee or Soda! With a 10 Gallon Fuel Purchase or more at Gordy’s Truck Stop
Restaurant Now Open 24/7 Truck Stop Open 24/7 Now Serving BBQ
Highway 97 at MP 165 17045 Whitney Rd., La Pine, OR
By Staff Writer A produce truck in its past life, the large vehicle parked next to Community Kitchen every third Wednesday of the month – offering free showers to anyone who wants them -- is configured with features that would make a hotelier envious. As driver/operator Dan Rivers (a volunteer with Community Ministries) points out on a tour of the truck, which was designed and engineered for its current mission, these include: four shower stalls (two at each end, so men and women have their own section), a 400-gallon fresh water tank and propane heater to ensure “hot water on demand,” a supply of clean towels, and bins offering free toiletries (shampoo, sunscreen, toothbrushes and toothpaste, cotton swabs, body lotion) and clothing (underwear, socks and t-shirts in “a variety of sizes”). “Shower users are welcome to take these items, which handle basic needs, when they leave” he said.
Rivers also pointed out that no names are recorded, just a ledger indicating whether those taking showers are male or female. “We can accommodate 10 – 12 people an hour.” The curtained-off shower stalls – complete with shampoo, conditioner and body wash – are sanitized after each use, with an adjacent eye-level mirror and hamper for used towels, and grey tanks for drainage. “The truck is virtually self-contained,” noted Rivers, “and is available year-round, even if the ground is covered with snow.” (Community Ministries, which currently goes to sites in Bend and Redmond on a weekly basis, has offered to include La Pine’s Community Kitchen on its regular schedule – the third Wednesday of every month – should enough people take advantage of the free showers.)
‘This Place Has So Much Potential to Do So Much Good,’ By Staff Writer Exultant about a recent grant from Umpqua Cow Creek Indian Foundation for $8,000 in support of Community Kitchen’s hot meals program, Virginia Gardner relishes her new role as the nonprofit’s grant writer. “This place has so much potential to do so much good,” she said. And she should know. Initially going to Community Kitchen for help, Gardner started volunteering there at last September, while Experience Works (which provides financial support to eligible over-55, low-income individuals in community service assignments at local nonprofits) “helped me earn a little money.” And then, she claims, “they couldn’t get rid of me here.” Not that Sharri Dempsey, general manager, had any such intention. “I just love Virginia,” she says frequently of the woman who is determined to “find new grants and re-explore old ones, as we have to have a constant influx of grant money to support our operations. “I’m persistent in connecting with people at the other end,” elaborated Gardner, describing her approach to obtaining grants – and to life in general. “There’s a reason I’ve been
Virginia Gardner, grant writer for Community Kitchen, is a believer in “exploring new ideas and seeing if they make things better.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Wearing Masks, Common in Asia, Rises in the West Wearing masks, proven effective in curbing the coronavirus pandemic, has had to overcome a deep cultural resistance, with some Western leaders initially describing this practice as “alien.” Yet while those in the West might consider mask-wearing as a matter of simply protecting themselves as individuals, in Asian societies, people think more collectively and wear masks to shield others. The mindset is that if all individuals wear them, the society as a whole will be safeguarded. Yet this difference in mindset wasn’t always so apparent. Masks weren’t widely worn in Japan until it was struck by the SARS pandemic in 2003. After people got used to masks, they continued to wear them against seasonal allergieas or to protect one another from germs – despite the absence of immediate threats. This practice has become such a part of daily life that it now, when people don them, they are showing others that they’re abiding by social etiquette, and so others feel reassured. The current president of France’s National Academy of Science
predicts that wearing masks is likely to become the norm in Western countries after the end of the pandemic, saying that “pretty soon everyone in a family will have their two or three reusable face masks.” (Source: NY Times)
Public Auction July 11, 2020 of the Estate of Melvin Countryman Antique Cars • GMC Pickup • RV Truck Tools • Car Tools • and More Tools This auction is located at 149027 Mid State La Pine, Oregon, 97739
CONTACT: Larry at 503-702-6646 for more information
See Assetmgt.com for actual directions so you do not get lost as well as Pictures and lot items.
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
Page 9
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La Pine Community Health Center, Facing Unprecedented Financial Challenges, Ready to Welcome Patients ‘With Open Arms’ By Andrea Hine, Editor Headlines across the country are posing a critical question: can community health centers, facing financial devastation, survive the coronavirus fight? Right on our doorstep, La Pine Community Health Center (LCHC) is waging this battle – and the outcome is far from certain. Charla DeHate, chief executive officer, is blunt in describing why LCHC has needed to ask for financial support from the communities it serves – which go as far south as Gilchrist and Christmas Valley. “We received $2 million in grants as a result of Covid-19, for which we’re very grateful. But as our monthly expenses are $650,000 - $700,000, that doesn’t go very far. “In March and April, to ensure that we could take care of people who were reluctant to come into our facility, we set up telephone and video call options – which don’t allow us to monitor blood pressure and other vital signs so we can take care of non-emergency patients to our full ability. “Even so,” continued DeHate, “revenues were just 30 percent of what we needed – in part because we can’t even bill for video or phone consultations until July, and won’t be reimbursed until September. But we’re moving in the right direction: May’s revenues increased 15 percent. “Like other community health centers, we receive some federal operating funds,” she noted, “although they cover only about 20 percent of services such as our discounted fee program. There is no reimbursement for our three RN case managers or our outreach workers – who are more important than ever as people lose their jobs and employer-funded insurance.”
Other community health centers have eliminated staff to preserve dwindling financial resources. But for DeHate, that was not an option. “Laying off or furloughing employees was never something we considered, given the challenge of finding people who want to work in this difficult field, and are willing to do so in a rural area such as ours. Equally important, we need our people here – even if their responsibilities have temporarily shifted to take care of phone inquiries, drive-by testing or video consults, for example. “As CEO, I’m trying my best to retain all of our employees. We have a very strong team that has been amazing through all this – pulling together with patience and compassion for each other. It’s the best team I’ve ever had,” she emphasized. So DeHate looked elsewhere. “In order to conserve revenues, we did close our Sunriver site, which never gained traction since being opened five years ago, and only brought in 50-60 percent of what was required to be cost effective,” she said. “And there are other difficult decisions being weighed – if implementing them becomes absolutely necessary in order for LCHC to survive, especially during the next six to eight months as the impact of the coronavirus continues to take a severe toll on the economy.” Despite facing unprecedented financial challenges, the commitment of DeHate and her team to La Pine Community Health Center’s mission is stronger than ever. “We serve everyone – all ages and all income levels – and every patient receives equal quality of care. We need to be here when patients are ready for us – and will welcome them with open arms.”
LCHC set up telephone and video call options several months ago to take care of non-emergency patients reluctant to come into it’s facility – but won’t be reimbursed until September for this added service.
“Our three RN case managers and outreach workers are more important than ever aas people lose their jobs and employer-funded insurance,” emphasizes Charla DeHate, LCHC’s chief executive officer.
Community Health Centers Provide Care to the Medically Underserved
Community Health Centers, or CHCs, are nonprofit health care clinics that provide a range of primary care, behavioral health, dental care and other services to 29 million patients nationwide, primarily those who are low income and uninsured. America’s 1,400 CHCs operate 15,000 clinics in medically underserved communities, and receive varying amounts of government funding. Yet despite facing the same financial challenges as other businesses and nonprofits, CHCs have received significantly
less federal Covid-19 support than most other non-essential, non-healthcare-related industry sectors, including higher education, airlines, and agriculture (where specialty farmers such as “tart cherry growers” received $9.5 billion). Specifically, the CARES Act provided $100 billion in relief funds for hospitals and other health care providers. But much of that went to the hospital system, leaving a smaller amount of community health centers – which on average received $1.3 million.
Support Your Local Community Health Center
La Pine Community Health Center (LCHC) needs your continued financial support during this economic crisis so that it may continue providing medical care and vital resources to the communities in its service area. Please
visit www.lapinehealth.org/support-fund to give your contribution electronically, or mail your contribution to La Pine Community Health Center, Attn: Support Fund, P.O. Box 3300, La Pine, OR 97739.
YOU Are Our Priority! L
a Pine Community Health Center (LCHC) continues to take measures to ensure the safety of our patients, visitors and staff. In addition to requiring masks or face coverings in our health center and increased cleaning standards, we also now have a room at our main site on Huntington Rd in La Pine that is dedicated to the triage and treatment of patients who are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory virus or have been exposed to others who have tested positive for COVID-19. This room has a separate entrance which allows us to treat the patient without them ever entering the main health center. While we still have the ability to complete a telehealth visit with our patients, we strongly encourage IN-PERSON visits with your provider as this is the MOST EFFECTIVE way to receive care.
SERVICES:
All of our primary care providers are currently accepting new patients!
◆Primary Medical Care for Adults and Children
◆Men’s and Women’s Health ◆Pediatric Care ◆Prenatal Care ◆Minor Surgery/Biopsies ◆Disease Management ◆RN Point of Care ◆Lab ◆X-Ray ◆Behavioral Health ◆Diabetes Prevention and Support ◆Smoking Cessation ◆Chronic Pain Management ◆Weight Management Support ◆Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Enrollment ◆Transportation ◆Discounted Fee Program ◆Prescription Assistance ◆Medical Supply Assistance ◆Dental Vouchers ◆Resources for Housing, Food, Veteran and Energy Assistance
(541) 536-3435 www.lapinehealth.org
La Pine | 1 Main office on Huntington Rd 2 School-Based Health Center on Coach Rd 3 Gilchrist | 1 School-Based Health Center on Mississippi Dr Christmas Valley | 1 Office in North Lake Health District building on Bay Rd
Deschutes County Behavioral Health on HWY 97
Page 10
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
VETERANS
A Veteran’s Point of View
By Bob Seidenberg, Contributing Writer
There’s More to July Than the 4th July has historically been the real start of summer in America. While it officially begins with the summer solstice in late June, the celebration of this season usually kicks off on the 4th of July. A day of sun, BBQ and games is capped off by a fireworks show where viewers “OOH and AHH” as rockets shoot into the night sky, bursting into a display of color accompanied by the loud percussions of the explosions. The acrid scent of spent gunpowder fills the air during Offshoots of the original Disneyland in the finale -- reminiscent of the battlefields where Anaheim, California are located in Florida, our independence was won and our freedoms Paris, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong. were earned. In the famous words of the well-known face of infomercials Billy Mays, “but wait, there’s more.” Amelia Earhart, the famous aviation pioneer and the first female to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, went missing in July 1937 and was never to be seen again. The bikini first debuted in 1946, causing men to forevermore wear sunglasses at the beach to hide where their eyes were looking. In July The Apollo 11 moon landing fulfilled 1947, a “flying disc” was reported in Roswell, President Kennedy’s dream of putting a New Mexico, and sparked the first “Alien” man on the moon.
Thank You
is Not Enough. That’s why we donate 5% of all Brew Nation Coffee proceeds to veterans charities.
2nd Annual Blessing of the Bikes Set for July 18 By Staff Writer
speculations. Last year’s first-ever Blessing of the The 1950s had their share of memorable July Bikes was such a successful fundraiser events included President Eisenhower signing for La Pine’s Veterans Outreach that it’s the bill that placed “In God We Trust” on U.S. being staged again on Saturday, July paper currency in 1955. Disneyland also opened 18, according to Frank Hernandez, the to the public that year, and forever changed organization’s president. family vacation destinations. 1959 saw the 49th Although modified due to coronavirus star added to our flag, bringing Alaska into our precautions, the event – which he touts as fold. “a scenic drive for a good cause” – begins Not to be bested by prior history, July in the at the La Pine Christian Center (Mountain 1960s brought us into a “new world.” Hawaii View and Day Road) at 10 a.m. with became the 50th star on our flag in 1960, and the coffee and donuts. five-digit zip code was introduced in 1963. Two The ride-out starts at 10:45 a.m., significant, life-changing pieces of legislation following a blessing by Pastor Norm, and were enacted by President Johnson: The Civil concludes at 12 noon at the American Rights Act was signed into law in 1964, followed Legion with a no-host barbeque. in 1965 by the Social Security Act establishing Highlights include a photo booth, 50/50 Medicare and Medicaid programs. The 60s were drawing and raffle for a handmade quilt capped off by the Apollo 11 moon landing that made and donated by Michele Hoffman. fulfilled President Kennedy’s dream of putting a The event is being sponsored by First man on the moon. Interstate Bank. While July 2020 will not see all of the typical festivities due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, there is still plenty to celebrate in your own way. The independence and A Veteran helping other Veterans to purchase freedom that we a home in Central Oregon are blessed with in America should be celebrated every single day. Men and women died to give us these treasures 244 years ago, and they continue to fight and die to keep William Krajeski us free. Realtor/Broker We are the greatest nation on earth, let’s not spoil it. All lives matter.
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The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
NORTH KLAMATH COUNTY
Gilchrist High School Class of 2020 Shares ‘Remarkable Similarities’ With Graduates in 1940
By John C. Driscoll, Contributing Writer For Gilchrist High School’s Class of 2020, the three months preceding graduation were marked by uncertainty and missed customary senior-year experiences. 2020 is also the 80th anniversary of the school’s first graduating class. Both groups of seniors transitioned into unsettled times. Because the forecast for graduation day called for high winds, rain and snow flurries – and as Klamath County’s Phase II plan was approved the afternoon before – ceremonies were moved from a planned outdoor site back indoors. Dignitaries included Mark Greif, Klamath County School District’s director of human resources, and John Radeamacher, Klamath County School Board member. Principal Steve Prock conducted the ceremony. This year’s presenters included Kevin McDaniel, a retired educator who concluded his career as Gilchrist’s principal. He spoke about the advantages of attending a smaller school, and cited numerous examples of Gilchrist graduates who have gone from success to success.
The second presenter, Darla Brandon, was characterized by Principal Steve Prock as the school’s Swiss army knife because “she does it all.” Brandon described the challenges and disappointments this year’s seniors faced and then overcame, and commended them for their tenacity. Also of note: Larken Ackley was this year’s salutatorian, while Katie McDaniel and Ashley Kelley shared honors as valedictorians. Juniors chose Rayenee Hoover and Cauy Ham as outstanding senior girl and senior boy. Steve Prock and Kevin McDaniels noted the remarkable similarities between the classes of 1940 and 2020 – both of which graduated during unsettled times. The 1940 graduates faced the not-yet-ended Great Depression, and escalating United States involvement in the wars then taking place in Europe and the Far East. The two speakers predicted that just as the 1940 graduates overcame the uncertainty and adversity they faced -- and persevered -- the class of 2020 will do likewise.
By John C. Driscoll, Contributing Writer 2020 marks the 80th anniversary of Gilchrist School’s completion and the graduation of its first high school class. Prior to the arrival of Gilchrist Timber Company, north Klamath County school children were rare. They attended one-room schoolhouses in Chemult, Crescent, and Crescent Lake Townsite, and left the area for high school, Beginning in late 1936, Gilchrist Timber Company argued for construction The Gilchrist School, shown in this 1940 photo, has served of a school building for north Klamath County for 80 years – thanks to the insistence grades 1-12 that was of Gilchrist Timber Company on its construction. large enough to accomthe county’s large taxpayers. Under those modate all the children of its employees as well as children resid- circumstances there is a definite obliing throughout the north end of Klamath gation upon the county school board to provide adequate school facilities...the County. This argument was initially met with Gilchrist Company has in mind a permareluctance, and the scale of the project nent program for the harvesting of timber was not appreciated – even though Che- in its sphere of influence in the northern mult, Crescent and Crescent Lake Town- part of the county, another factor to consite were way-stops that had few pros- sider in providing the community with an adequate school building.” pects for growth. Construction of the Gilchrist School In September 1937, the Klamath Falls commenced in early 1939, and was Evening Herald published an editorial completed in time for the start of the arguing for construction of a school that 1939-1940 school year. Its total cost was would serve Gilchrist and the rest of north $60,000, making it the biggest Klamath Klamath County: County Schools project accomplished that “…The Gilchrist Company is one of year.
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Page 11
Gilchrist School Celebrates 80 Years of Serving North Klamath County
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Page 12
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
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Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
Food & Recipes
Heritage Bakery Purchases Help Support Senior Center
message or email -- is straightforward, as By Staff Writer explained on the Senior Center’s website: Chocolate cheesecake, fruit-filled pastries, lapineseniorcenter.org. Everything is made to salted caramel cookies, raspberry cream order, with 24-hour notice required (48 hours in cheese muffins, and cinnamon rolls taste as good as they sound – and represent only a portion of the fresh baked goods available at Heritage Bakery – the brainchild of Marie Hohnstein, chef at the Senior Activity Center, and her partner Barbara Massey, a La Pine resident since last August. After moving from Chico with her husband, Massey – who is “passionate about serving others, as well as cooking” -- volunteered once at the Senior Center “before everything changed” due to the coronavirus, and the facility shut its doors to the public. She then began bringing in baked goods for the volunteers, as “if I’m not baking, I’m not happy.” Information on ordering items from Hohnstein had the brainstorm of Heritage Bakery, including special orders advertising these delicious homemade such as a birthday cakes, can be found on items for sale – which would help the Senior the Senior Activity Center’s website. Center’s bottom line as its closure had put a stop to rental income, And Massey – who found that she could “bake, serve others, meet people, and feel part of the community” -- readily agreed. “Barb is a gift,” described Hohnstein. “It all fits together.” Naming the fledgling enterprise after the Senior Center’s large dining and event room – Heritage Bakery – the two entrepreneurs began taking sample boxes to tempt local businesses. In addition to an array of popular items that “are selling steadily,” they plan to start offering breads Heritage Bakery features a special item such as sourdough and honey molasses each month, including a 4th of July version --- due to popular demand – as well as a of its popular cheesecake. monthly special. The Heritage Bakery effort, it should be advance for cheesecakes). Special items can noted, is in addition to Hohnstein’s overseeing also be prepared upon request. the preparation of 140 meals three days a “We needed you, Barb, and you’re here – week for the Senior Center’s drive-by and it’s a blessing all the way around,” summed up delivery lunch program – and Massey’s Hohnstein, whose own culinary philosophy for contribution of desserts. “She’s superwoman,” Senior Center diners is that “I like to cook good Hohnstein said of Massey, who charges food that people like to eat.” nothing for her labor. “And now that someone Based on Heritage Bakery’s auspicious generously donated a 20-quart mixer (which first weeks in operation, that philosophy replaced two much smaller machines), she’s has resonated with an appreciative local in heaven.” audience. As Hohnstein put it, “Barbara and I The procedure for purchasing from are a good mix.” Heritage Bakery – initiated via a phone
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Comfort Foods – Apple Pie & Meat Loaf “An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but a few extra apples can keep a fresh pie on the counter.” On a sunny afternoon, I decided to check out my produce before going to the market and found four big granny smiths in the drawer. I also had a box of piecrusts, and thought it would be great to do a small pie to make room in the produce bin for new apples. I love pie. Hot apple pie is always fabulous for the aroma as it bakes and how it feels in your mouth when it is still warm out of the oven. After laying out the bottom crust in a small pie plate, I scrubbed, cut and diced the apples -- skin on -into a bowl. I sprinkled a fair amount of sugar and cinnamon into the apples and stirred them to cover. Then I added about a half-cup of flour into the bowl and stirred again. After dumping the apples into the pie plate, creating a huge pile, I dropped pieces of butter all over the pile so it could melt through as it baked. Next step was to cover the top with the other crust, flute the edges, and oil and sugar the crust. After being put on the lowest oven shelf, at 350 degrees, the pie baked for an hour and a half until the crust on top and bottom was a golden brown. At the same time, I made a nice meatloaf – using one pound of
ground pork and two pounds of ground beef, one egg, ½ cup milk, ½ cup breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic, ½ cup chopped onion, and two tablespoons of fresh herbs such as oregano, basil and parsley. Form a loaf in a bread pan and bake an hour at 350 degrees until the internal temperature reaches 165. Add some garlic toast and steamed broccoli for a complete meal topped off with your apple pie dessert.
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SUNRIVER
Rotary Awards $1,000 Scholarships to Five LPHS Seniors
By Staff Writer “We truly enjoy supporting these deserving high school seniors as they pursue their career dreams,” said Pam Beezley, board secretary for the Rotary Club of Sunriver-La Pine. “The $1,000 scholarships give them a little extra support.” She explained that Rotary has offered a $1,000 scholarship opportunity to La Pine High School (LPHS) seniors “for a long time. In the early years, we might get just one application, this time we received 10 – and all of the applicants were really, really good.” The only requirement of would-be recipients is a commitment to continue their education by going to college – “not necessarily a four-year institution, or with plans to become an electrical engineer. It could be at COCC, for example, to train as a paramedic or go to the culinary academy there,” continued Beezley. “In addition to looking at grades, we ask for three reference letters – say from teachers or sports coaches – and review any community involvement to determine if applicants were volunteers or helping others in some form. “Year after year, in some cases, these young people have had to overcome a lot, such as broken homes and abuse issues,” she said. “Their stories really touch your heartstrings. “Choosing our scholarship winners this year was especially challenging, given coronavirus restrictions, as we could only review and collaboratively discuss the applications via Zoom meetings.” The coronavirus has also affected the scholarship process in another way by creating an uncertain academic climate as seniors look to the future. What institutions will be open? How will classes be conducted? What fees will be charged if the advanced educational process moves
The five La Pine High School seniors who received $1,000 grants from the Rotary Club of Sunriver-La Pine toward their pursuit of higher education are: Johanna Flenner, Laura Ann Lucretia Winford, Josie Rae Wells, Adam Timothy Plant and Tommy Rohde. from in-person to online? When will GED tests – now postponed – be available to determine eligibility? Would it make more sense to wait a year before pursuing a degree? “For all these reasons,” explained Beezley, “many seniors find themselves in a holding pattern: all five of our scholarship winners have the desire to pursue a degree, but they’re surrounded by uncertainty that may not be alleviated for months. This uncertainty also affects Rotary, which normally sends scholarship checks directly to colleges after receiving proof of enrollment. So we’re treating this unprecedented situation on a case-by-case basis in terms of how and when the funds will be dispersed.” On a related note, Beezley said that Rotary Club of Sunriver-La Pine – in addition to providing scholarships – will assist LPHS seniors by paying outstanding fines and fees that have accumulated during their four years in high school – when they are unable to do so. “These range from iPads that didn’t come back to overdue library books and outstanding athletic fines. This year, with such a high level of unemployment, we’re helping out by donating more than $1,000.”
Sunriver Women’s Club Donates $25,000 to Local Nonprofits Through Covid-19 Fund Sharri Dempsey cannot stop singing the praises of the Sunriver Women’s Club, and here’s why. “They have saved our kitchen; I’m going to start with that,” said Dempsey. “They have shared with us about $10,000 through the Covid-19 emergency funds they have raised. Without that, we would not have been able to continue serving meals here.” Dempsey is the manger for the La Pine Community Kitchen, a food bank that serves 190 to 230 lunches per day plus 150 to 180 boxes of food twice a week to families in need. “The La Pine Community Kitchen operates on a shoestring,” said Debbie Baker, president of the 20-yearold club. “It’s an amazing little place.” Club leaders knew that local nonprofits were going to need its support more than ever if they were going to meet the demand for essential services in south Deschutes County during this difficult time. And so the Covid-19 Nonprofit Emergency Fund was born, which had raised $25,000 as of June 1. In addition to La Pine Community Kitchen, which received $6,000 to support a 200% increase in meals served on a to-go basis, other beneficiaries have included:
JULY 2020 Page 13
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
Council on Aging ($2,000) to support two senior food programs –- Meals on Wheels and community meals. La Pine Senior Activity Center ($1,000) to support a 100% increase in meals served on a to-go-basis. La Pine Community Health Center ($1,000) to support prescription medications for under-insured or uninsured clients. Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver ($3,000) to be used to help their families with mortgage assistance. NeighborImpact ($3,000) to support utility assistance for heat, water, sewer, garbage and even cell phones, as phones can be people’s connection to jobs and other needed services. Some nonprofits, such as St. Vincent de Paul that is offering food boxes, told the Women’s Club (which has awarded $712,000 since 1999) they are holding their own and deferred to take the funds so another group could be helped. Those interested in contributing should contact Sunriver Women’s Club at P.O. Box 3334, Sunriver, OR 97707. (Source: Bulletin)
Summer Transit Service Launched Between La Pine and Sunriver
Cascades East Transit (CET) has launched Route 31-- an employee-focused summer transit service between La Pine and Sunriver -- to fill existing transportation gaps and provide greater access to jobs, health care, and other essential services. The service will operate seven days per week through September 7, with bus stops located at 4th and Huntington, St. Charles Family Clinic, and Wickiup Junction in La Pine, and at Sunriver Resort. The La Pine and Sunriver Area Chambers of Commerce, the City of La Pine, community partners, and residents contributed to Route 31 planning efforts. As John Holland, board president of the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce, noted: “This new service will provide a convenient and efficient transportation option for residents
and employees to travel between the communities of Sunriver and La Pine, thus helping to revitalize our economy as we recover during this unprecedented time.” CET continues to follow Oregon Health Authority guidelines by disinfecting high-touch surfaces on buses and at facilities every four hours, requiring face coverings for drivers and passengers, temporarily suspending fare collection, posting maximum occupancy notices, and providing signage and visual cues on buses to encourage passengers to stand and sit at least three feet away from other passengers and six feet away from drivers. More information about the Route 31 schedule and CET’s efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 can be found at www.cascadeseasttransit.com.
Getting Rid of Knapweed – A Persistent & Toxic Pest By T. Myers, Contributing Writer June is busting out all over and so are the toxic weeds we need to learn to recognize and remove. The most common weed we deal with here in La Pine is pink-flowered knapweed. It grows wild everywhere and spreads with a fury second to none. Each small flowering plant can cast thousands of seeds that can live for seven years in a dormant state and grow from barren, rocky unwatered soil for years. Pull these from the roots. Treat the soil with vinegar and salt and wash your hands with bar soap and water after you dispose of the plants separately in their own throw-away bags. Knapweeds are poisonous, and put alkalinity in the soil -- making it difficult to grow plants where they have been flourishing.
! E E R
Knapweed, a perennial, pushes native plants aside and uses precious water and nutrients while doing so. In removing it, be careful not to dislodge seeds – so they can’t lay dormant and later sprout. Owners and renters also need to clean up their fence lines outside their yards by sidewalks and so on. Please pull together and do your part. For more information, contact Deschutes County Forester at 541-388-6581.
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Page 14
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
JULY 2020
HHHHHHHHHH
Twin Lakes Resort at Sunset Amateur photographer Bob Seidenberg, former president of La Pine’s Band of Brothers, captured the end of a spring day at Twin Lake Resort. He and his wife Kathy, along with their constant canine companions Oscar and Brandy, are visiting 10 local sites this year – along with Glacier National Park in Montana – for a total of 72 nights of fifth-wheel camping.
Be On the Lookout for a
Great Shot!
2020 Photo Calendar Contest
One of our members’ favorite yearly events is MEC’s photo calendar contest. For the first time in contest history, digital JPEG photos will be accepted! We invite members to share their most beautiful, engaging, and fun photos for the chance to appear in our 2021 calendar. A total of 13 winners will be selected. Each monthly winner will receive $50 and our cover photo winner will receive a grand prize of $200. 1. Submissions are accepted until Monday, August 10, 2020. 2. The contest is open only to members of MEC.
3. Each person may submit up to five photos. Each photo should include: 4. Photographer’s name and address.
5. A short description of what is shown in the photo. 6. An email address and telephone number where the photographer can be contacted.
7. Printed photo entries must be at least 300 dpi at 10 inches by 8 inches tall. Horizontal or landscape photos only – vertical photos will not be accepted. 8. Digital JPEG photos must be at least 300 dpi at 10 inches wide by 8 inches tall. Horizontal or landscape photos only. Vertical photos and files larger than 20 megabytes will not be accepted. 9. Digital submissions should be submitted online at https://midstateelectric.coop/content/ member-calendar-contest along with supporting information. Please put the words “2020 Calendar Photo Contest” in the subject line.
By entering the Contest, you agree to give MEC one-time rights to publish your photo in the calendar and to use it to promote the calendar contest in the future in print and social media.
Helpful Hints: • Use the highest resolution setting on your digital camera. • Photograph beautiful places and wildlife. Selected photos will have dramatic colors or scenery. • Photos should reflect the beauty of the areas where we live. • Submit photos that suggest a season or holiday. • Just after sunrise and just before sunset are beautiful times to photograph. Printed submissions can be dropped off at our office or mailed to: Midstate Electric Marketing Department PO Box 127, La Pine, OR 97739
_________________________________________ _________________ __________________ Phone
Name
Account #
_______________________________________________________________________________ Address
_________________________________________ __________________ ______ __________ City
State
Zip Code
_______________________________________________________________________________ Title / Date of Photograph
_______________________________________________________________________________ Place Photograph was Taken
___________________________________________ Signature
All entries must be submitted to: MEC Marketing Dept., PO Box 127, La Pine, OR 97739
‘Everyone Needs the Opportunity to Feel Successful,’ Says Owner of New Athletic Sporting Goods Store CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
ketball and baseball cleats; softball bats and gloves; kayaks and swim floats; running shoes; and pickleball rackets. Even sunflower seeds and body jewelry. (Berry may expand into fishing and hunting gear in the future.) “We also have consignment items such as metal signs, all of which are made by local artists,” explained Berry. “Even my contractor was local. I just want to support my people.” This support extends to sponsoring a Tball team, sending two ROTC members to leadership camp this summer, and sponsoring two members of Cub Scout Troop #36 so they could go to summer camp. “It’s important that I put money back into the community,” she said. “The inspiration for opening Back in the Rack came during a parent-teacher conference at my son’s school when the subject veered to athletics,” continued Berry, “which I’ve been doing all my life. A light bulb went off in my head as to what I wanted to do here in La Pine. My biggest hope is to be an affordable, convenient, local option for our community, and to encourage increased youth participation in sports. “Back on the Rack is my baby,” emphasized Berry. “I’m thankful every day I walk in here – customers share my excitement, and can feel the love here. And unlike most businesses, this is a place where kids can go and touch everything in the store.” (Back on the Rack Sporting Goods is located at 51538 US 97, Suite 1 (the former location of Norco medical supplies). Hours of operation are Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tel: 541.536-2258.)
New La Pine Fire District Engine Replaces 26-Year-Old Predecessor CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
changed,” he added. “The engine still pumps water, and carries hoses and a water tank.” (To be specific, the tank holds 500 gallons of water – augmented by 20 gallons of foam concentrate – and the hoses consist of more than 1000 feet of 1.5-inch wildland fire hose and 500 feet of three-inch supply hose.) Chief Supkis, accompanied by Lt. Rigney, traveled (before Covid-19) to the manufacturing plant in Bradenton, Florida, “where Tropicana orange juice is also made,” to inspect the new engine. They found 33 items “that needed to be fixed” so as to adhere to La Pine’s customization requirements. These included the location of a hose drain valve, a missing warning light, door closure adjustments, and installation of a three-way switch that allows firefighters to turn on a flashing yellow warning light when parked by the side of a road. The new engine also has a winterization feature with enclosed pumps and heaters that can be utilized when La Pine – as is typical -- experiences snow and subzero temperatures.
‘This Place Has So Much Potential to Do So Much Good,’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
called ‘let’s try’ by those who know me.” She is also a believer in “exploring new ideas and seeing if they make things better” (such as developing classes for cooking on a budget), which puts her and Dempsey on the same wavelength. “Sharri is so receptive to new ideas, and really good about giving feedback so you can blossom.” Gardner attended Utah State University, where she “researched bugs” in the entomology field, and worked toward a BA in psychology and an MA in art therapy. Moving to La Pine 18 months ago from Salem, where she had lived for five years, Gardner has no regrets about the move. “I love La Pine, and the people of La Pine, and love working with them.”
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
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JULY 2020 Page 15
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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EDUCATION
La Pine’s Brittany Johnson Receives University of Nebraska-Lincoln Degree Brittany Renee Johnson of La Pine was among 3,417 graduates who received degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln during a virtual graduation celebration in May. She earned a Master
of Science from the Office of Graduate Studies. The May graduates are from 54 countries, 45 states and Puerto Rico, and 250 Nebraska communities.
20 LPHS Seniors Are First-Ever AVID Program Graduates
Twenty La Pine High School (LPHS) earned the Ford Foundation Scholarship, seniors are the first-ever graduates from one of just 125 students in the Oregon/ Bend-La Pine School District’s Ad- Northern California region to do so. According to Spring, the AVID stuvancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program -- a national college and dents maintained a higher GPA than the career readiness effort designed to support rest of the school, and 17 are going on to post-secondary education, one into the underrepresented students. “I am hugely proud of this special military and two into the work force. Of group of students and their achieve- those attending college, 14 are first-generments,” commented Lindsey Spring, ation college students. Other highlights include: participation AVID instructor at LPHS. “They believed in this program and helped make each oth- in athletics (11 different sports represented); National Honor Society; Student er stronger.” theater/musicals; “I don’t think I would have made it Council/Leadership; through high school without this program JROTC; Boy Scouts; Multicultural Club; and the ability of the teacher to keep me Superintendent’s Student Advisory Team; on track,” said Dylan Westbrook, one of GSA Club; My Future, My Choice; yearbook; and forestry. the LPHS participants. Next year, AVID will be available at LPHS graduate Autumn Gerard, who began AVID her freshman year, says the La Pine Middle School as well as LPHS. support from her fellow students was crit- Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA, take ical to her success. “That class is like my rigorous courses, maintain citizenship, brothers and sisters. We are there for each have 90 percent attendance and complete projects each year. other.” Gerard will be the first member Senior of community Discount service Day - The 3rd Thursday her family to attend college, and recently of each month, 65+, 10% OFF Gift Shop
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Page 16
The Newberry Eagle - The Community Newspaper of Newberry Country
REAL ESTATE
Upward Trends Seen in Central Oregon’s Real Estate Market
The past several months of coronavirus-related uncertainty resulted in the real estate market experiencing a massive downturn in new inventory and pending transactions. But now signs point to a solid recovery in home sales as prospective buyers jump back into the market. The Mortgage Bankers Association reported that purchase applications have increased for the seventh week in a row with an 18% spike over 2019; likening the increase to “pent up
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demand from home buyers returning to the market.” Windermere Real Estate’s chief economist, Matthew Gardner, stated that mortgage interest rates should continue to remain low and hover around 3% through 2020 and possibly 2021. This too, fuels an active and robust real estate market. In addition, the rate of residential mortgage loans in forbearance is beginning to slow week over week. While it has increased slightly, the overall trend is a dramatic slow state by state, as the states begin to reopen their economies. Again, all signs of the beginning of economic recovery from the COVID-19 shutdown.
JULY 2020
Happy 4th of July from The Newberry Eagle
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Sharon Crites, Broker for All of Central Oregon Cell: 509-881-1898 sharon@gogould.net 52718 Highway 97, La Pine, OR In Central Oregon, while inventory remains low, at a two-month supply, each week the market is seeing more and more new listings. While April had a 33% drop in new listings, May showed a 16% gain on that number. While new inventory is still 16% less than typical for this time of year, the listing inventory is trending upward. A statistic that is particularly notable is the extreme decrease in days on market. In March 2020, the average days on market was 74 days; May showed a drastic de-
crease to 16 days on market. This is a direct correlation with the lack of inventory. With less inventory to choose from, buyers are acting quickly to secure a home in an extremely competitive market. All in all, things are trending upward with the real estate market and economy as a whole. As the summer season officially kicks off in Central Oregon, good news abounds for the real estate markets. (Source: The Source)
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