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The Nugget Vol. XLIX No. 42

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News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026

SCSFD delivers on staffing commitments Salvaging Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District is well on its way to fulfilling the staffing commitments made to the community as part of the local option levy approved by voters in May 2026. These investments include the hiring of three additional career firefighter/paramedics and a full-time mechanic, as well as continued funding for a dedicated Wildfire and Community Risk Specialist. Voters overwhelmingly supported the levy as an investment in strengthening emergency response capabilities, improving apparatus reliability, expanding wildfire preparedness efforts, and maintaining the quality of fire and emergency medical services (EMS) provided to the Sisters-Camp Sherman community. On Monday, September 21, four newly hired firefighter/paramedics began an intensive 10-week training academy. Three of these positions were funded through the voter-approved local option levy, while the fourth was hired to fill an existing vacancy. For the first time in its

burned timber is a race against the clock By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

PHOTO COURTESY SCSFD

Newly hired firefighters are training to be prepared to protect Sisters. Voters approved local option funding for new positions in the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District. history, the District is con- a full-time, dedicated train- the recruits for the unique ducting its own in-house ing officer, a position estab- operational demands of career firefighter training lished in February 2025. serving the Sisters-Camp academy. This milestone The academy provides S h e r m a n c o m m u n i t y. was made possible through comprehensive, hands-on See TRAINING on page 23 the District’s investment in training designed to prepare

After a wildfire, a landowner looking at scorched trees often feels pressure to act. Dead timber can still hold value, but that value can fade as the wood dries, cracks, and becomes vulnerable to insects and decay. The good news is that Oregon does not require a special state “salvage logging” permit for private landowners to harvest fire-damaged timber just because it burned. A Small Tract Forestland (STF) is privately owned forestland in Oregon enrolled in a special property tax program. Qualifying owners receive a reduced annual property tax in exchange for See SALVAGE on page 18

Laing earns AARP’s highest honor UGB expansion amendment moves forward By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

Sisters City Council voted unanimously last Wednesday, October 14, to approve Ordinance 547 to amend the Sisters Comprehensive plan with a City map detailing the expanded Urban Growth Boundary (UGB). The room erupted with applause. The City of Sisters Councilors conducted a public hearing October 14 on Ordinance 547 to adopt the Sisters UGB expansion application. During the public hearing, seven people gave testimony in favor of the application which included representatives from Sisters Habitat for Humanity and Central Oregon Land Watch. No one spoke in opposition.

Inside...

Although unanimous approval is required to approve an ordinance on a first vote in a public hearing, Councilor Gary Ross noted he is approving, “reluctantly.” Councilor Ross was concerned the housing and employment needs would not be satisfied by the proposed application, but he did not want to force Council to come back for a second hearing where a majority vote would suffice. The UGB expansion application was one of a pair. The other Sisters UGB expansion application requires approval by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). The BOCC’s public hearing is scheduled for October 22 See UGB on page 22

The community room at The Lodge Retirement Community in Sisters was packed on Tuesday, October 13, as one of the strongest advocates for the needs of seniors in Sisters was honored for her work. AARP Oregon has named Chris Laing of Sisters the recipient of the 2026 AARP Oregon Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s highest volunteer honor. Named for AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the award recognizes Oregonians age 50 and older who use their experience, talent, and leadership to enrich lives and inspire community service. Kris Bergstrom of Citizens4Community (C4C) welcomed the community, saying, “It’s so nice to be together (to) do what Sisters

PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS

Bandana Shrestha, AARP Oregon state director, presented Sisters volunteer Chris Laing with the organization’s highest volunteer honor on October 13, recognizing her work helping seniors in Sisters. does so well: Shine a light on what makes a difference.” Judy Smith, who has worked closely with Laing on many initiatives, and nominated her for the award, praised her friend

for devoting herself to projects that help people stay in Sisters, bringing people of diverse backgrounds together to come up with practical See LAING on page 22

Opinion/Letters ................ 2 Weather ............................ 4 Entertainment ................. 11 Student of the Month . 20-21 Crossword .......................27 Meetings .......................... 3 Announcements...............10 At Your Service............ 16-17 Obituaries .......................27 Classifieds..................28-31

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

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Letters to the Editor… The Nugget welcomes contributions from its readers, which must include the writer’s name, address, and phone number. Letters to the Editor is an open forum for the community and contains unsolicited opinions not necessarily shared by the Editor. The Nugget reserves the right to edit, omit, respond, or ask for a response to letters submitted to the Editor. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. Unpublished items are not acknowledged or returned. The deadline for all letters is 10 a.m. Monday.

For Silver Rail

To the Editor: To families in Bend and all of us mourning the loss of life and innocence on October 15: We stand with you and hold you in our hearts. We will honor you with acts of compassion for others as we all process this unspeakable tragedy. Therese Kollerer

Reject county districting

To the Editor: I read with alarm the arguments offered by Carey Tosello in a recent Nugget column supporting county districts. A “yes” vote, the argument goes, means you’ll have a local commissioner to speak with at the post office or grocery store — a voice for Sisters Country to protect our “rural values.” And to enjoy this opportunity, all you have to do is abandon your right to vote for the other four commissioners. In the 1990s I was an elected member of the Anchorage Assembly in Alaska, where I represented the South Anchorage district. In Anchorage I learned firsthand the jeopardy

of district representation and urge Deschutes County voters to reject it in the coming election. I have two principal concerns: First, the so-called “Sisters District” is not nearly as compact as the argument suggests. It will have perhaps 40,000 people and extend from Black Butte to west Redmond to Costco. Yes, our single commissioner will live in the district, but it’s likely they’ll live far away from Sisters. Even worse, if you supported their opponent in the election, your only commissioner will not be interested in your point of view. So instead of five commissioners, you might have no one in your corner. Second, even if your district commissioner is from Sisters and a friend, consider the difficulty getting majority support for your issue. I faced this problem in Anchorage frequently. While your commissioner may be a supporter, the others probably won’t care because Sisters is not in their district! We see this problem all the time in Washington and Salem, why bring this dysfunction to Deschutes County? In my experience, I found politicians pay little attention to issues that arise in other See LETTERS on page 19

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Activists rally... A “No Kings”rally in Sisters on Saturday focused on voting, with a march past the ballot drop box at Sisters City Hall.

The unaccounted costs of logging By George Wuerthner Guest Columnist

One of the many unaccounted “costs” of logging is the loss of carbon from forest soils. Soils hold more than three times the carbon the atmosphere does. Forest soils store an estimated 40 percent of the world’s terrestrial carbon, but estimates suggest that around 15 percent to 30 percent of that soil carbon is lost when a forest is logged. Across the West, the federal and some state agencies are logging our forests, suggesting that “fuel reductions” will preclude large blazes and create “healthy” forests. But like so much propaganda from the timber industry and its lackeys (including far too many so-called conservation groups like The Nature Conservancy), they ignore how logging harms forest ecosystems. Logging is a major source of carbon emissions in some states. For instance, in Oregon, logging emits more carbon than all the transportation sources in the state. According to researcher Bevely Law: “The wood products sector generated about one and a half times more emissions than the transportation or energy sector emissions.” While forest fires also emit carbon, they were less than a quarter of all forest sector emissions studied between 2001 and 2015. Although some atmospheric carbon is recaptured when logged forests regrow, that carbon capture takes decades to hundreds of years to offset the losses from tree cutting. We need to reduce all sources of carbon emissions today. Disturbance and compaction of forest soils associated with logging sustains long-term carbon losses. One study in British Columbia found dramatic carbon loss when trees and the forest floor were disturbed. Total soil carbon dropped 52 percent within five years and remained below prelogging levels

for the study’s 20 years. The researchers estimated it could take up to 86 years for soil carbon to return to prelogging levels. A second study recently completed in Nova Scotia, Canada, found that logging dissolved the chemical bonds that keep deep soil carbon out of the atmosphere. The study design examined carbon in forest soils at one year, 15 years, 45 years, and 80 years, and in a reference stand of old-growth forest more than 125 years old, where individual trees exceed two centuries in age. They also examined soil carbon at different depths, in part because deeper soil carbon tends to be more stable. However, the study’s main finding is that logging reduced deep soil carbon. Carbon was significantly lower at the 15-, 45-, and 80-year sites than at the oldgrowth reference. The loss of more than 60 percent of the soil carbon after logging had not fully recovered to prelogging levels even eight decades after harvest. Economic and environmental analyses usually ignore soil carbon loss. The best way to preserve forest carbon is to reduce logging and promote proforestation. According to Dr. Susan Masino, in many areas, proforestation is a faster, more powerful, and more practical option for sequestering carbon than afforestation (planting trees) or reforestation (replacing logged forests). Old-growth forests continue to accumulate carbon for well over 150 years. Only 2 percent of wood products are produced off of public lands. Proposed legislation like the Fix Our Forests Act, rescinding the Roadless Rule, and other recent proposals will only enhance carbon emissions, leading to greater climate warming, one of the primary factors that is contributing to wildfires. George Wuerthner is an ecologist who has studied wildfires for decades and published several books on the topic.

Views expressed in this column are solely those of the writer and are not necessarily shared by the Editor or The Nugget Newspaper.

PHOTO BY LINDA HANSON

Got a great photo of life in Sisters Country? Send to editor@nuggetnews.com.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

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STARS hires executive director

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

Piles of pine needles are as much a symbol of the season as pumpkins are.

Those pesky pine needles By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Anyone who lives among ponderosa pines — that would be all of us in Sisters — knows the routine. The needles fall, the needles pile up, and the rake comes out. In Sisters Country, fallen needles are usually treated as yard waste or a wildfire worry. But this brown carpet has some interesting possibilities. Start with the garden. Dry needles make a loose mulch for ornamental shrubs, trees, and acid-tolerant plants. They reduce evaporation from the soil surface, soften temperature swings, and suppress some weeds. They are lightweight, easy to spread, and,

handily, already in your yard. The catch is that they break down slowly and may blow away in exposed spots. Compost is another option, with a small asterisk, OSU Extension Service says. Needles are rich in carbon, so they need a partner. Mix them with grass clippings, vegetable scraps, or other nitrogen-rich material and you are in business. Needles alone are a slow, lopsided ingredient. Or let them decompose where they lie, returning nutrients and organic matter to the soil. There is real science behind the compost idea. A Washington State University Extension project tested composting ponderosa pine needles. Researchers found that shredding and aging the

needles, along with suitable moisture and nitrogen-rich materials, could produce garden-ready compost. Paths and slopes can use a little needle power, too. Needles can provide temporary cover on garden paths and cushion the soil against rainfall. Just watch your step, because loose needles can be slippery on paved or steep surfaces, and they are no substitute for engineered erosion control on vulnerable slopes. Craft folk might try basket making. Long pine needles can be coiled and stitched into baskets, ornaments, and decorative items. Ponderosa needles work for some projects, though See PINE NEEDLE on page 24

Mike Deal has stepped into his role as the first hired Executive Director of Sisters Transportation and Ride Share (STARS), marking a new chapter for the community nonprofit that provides free, door-to-door rides to nonemergency medical appointments. Deal’s appointment builds on seven years of volunteer leadership and is an investment in keeping STARS reliable and successful for years to come. Deal succeeds Rennie Morrell, who helped build STARS and served as its program manager under Age Friendly Sisters Country. When STARS became an

independent nonprofit in July 2024, Morrell became its volunteer executive director. Her leadership helped establish the service and guide its growth and the transition to new leadership builds on that foundation. “This is a needed and welcomed transition for STARS and I cannot believe our good fortune to have Mike to lead us into the future,” said Morrell, who will continue serving STARS on its board of directors. STARS began organizing in September 2019 and provided its first ride in March 2020, just as COVID19 disrupted everyday life. See STARS on page 26

Book festival underway ‘Under Western Skies’ Sisters Country readers are camping out under western skies this week as the Sisters Festival of Books is underway. This week’s events with the theme of “Under Western Skies” continues through Sunday, October 25, bringing together readers, writers, and community members for a week of literature, storytelling, and conversation rooted in the American West. The programming includes author conversations, readings, workshops, poetry, a multi-course chef’s dinner, and community

storytelling events — all featuring acclaimed writers and regional voices across genres and generations. Among the authors featured is Gabriel Urza, author of “An Incomplete History of the American West,” a collection of 12 interconnected short stories that span 150 years across the stark, haunting landscape of the Great Basin. Moving chronologically through time, each story acts like a literary historical marker — pausing along the See BOOK FEST on page 24

SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS Al-Anon Mon., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 541-610-7383. Alcoholics Anonymous Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,Gentlemen’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Thursday, noon, Sober Sisters Women’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church Thursday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration • Friday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 541-548-0440. Saturday, 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration • Sunday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration. Adult Child of Alcoholics (ACoA) Saturdays, 10 a.m. at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. acahubinsistersor@gmail.com Bible Study for All Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. at The Lodge. 541-233-6189. Central Oregon Fly Tyers Guild For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelefly@msn.com. Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@cotamtb.com for info.

Citizens4Community Community Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Visit citizens4community.com for location. Council on Aging of Central Oregon Senior Lunch In-person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grab-and-go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs. 12:30 to 1 p.m. Sisters Community Church. 541-480-1843. East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September-June), Stitchin’ Post. All are welcome. 541-549-6061. Go Fish Fishing Group 3rd Monday, 4:30 p.m., Sisters Community Church. 541-771-2211. Heartwarmers (fleece blanketmakers) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Sisters Community Church. Materials provided. 541-408-8505. Living Well With Dementia Sisters Care Partner Support Group. 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Community Recreation Center. 541-588-0547. Military Parents of Sisters Meetings are held quarterly; please call 541-388-9013. Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 541-549-6469. Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503-930-6158.

Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church. 541-549-6157. Sisters Area Woodworkers First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 541-231-1897. Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters Community Church. Email sistersbridge2021@gmail.com. Sisters Caregiver Support Group 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Rec. Community Center. 541-588-0547. (Meets with Living Well With Dementia Sisters). Sisters Cribbage Club Wednesdays, 11 a.m. at The Lodge, 411 E. Carpenter Lane. 509-947-5744. Sisters Garden Club For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com. Sisters Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors 4th Tuesday, 4:30 p.m. Location information: 541-549-1193. Sisters Kiwanis 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at SPRD in Sisters. 541-632-3663. Sisters Parent Teacher Community 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons. 917-219-8298. Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon to 1 p.m., at SPRD. 541-760-5645.

Sisters Veterans no-host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Restaurant. All veterans welcome, 541-241-6563. Sisters Trails Alliance Board Meetings take place every other month, 5 p.m. In-person or zoom. Contact: info@ sisterstrails.org. Songwriters Sharing Circle All ages welcome. 2nd Wednesday, 6 p.m., at The Hub, 541-977-8494. Three Sisters Irrigation District Board of Directors Meets 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSID Office. 541-903-4050. Three Sisters Lions Club 3rd Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Spoons Restaurant. 541-410-7390. VFW Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., The Hub, 291 E. Main Ave. sistersveterans@gmail.com.

SCHOOLS Black Butte School Board of Directors 2nd Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. at Black Butte School. See schedule www.blackbutte. k12.or.us/. 541-595-6203. Sisters School District Board of Directors One Wednesday monthly, Sisters School District Administration Building. See schedule at www.ssd6.org. 541-549-8521 x5002.

This listing is for regular Sisters Country meetings; email information to nugget@nuggetnews.com.

CITY & PARKS

Sisters City Council 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022.

Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Directors 2nd Tues., 4 p.m., Sisters Community Recreation Center. 541-549-2091. Sisters Planning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022.

FIRE & POLICE Black Butte Ranch Police Dept. Board of Directors Meets monthly. 541-595-2191 for time & date. Black Butte Ranch RFPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BBR Fire Station. 541-595-2288. Cloverdale RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Wed., 5:30 p.m., 67433 Cloverdale Rd. 541-548-4815. cloverdalefire.com. Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Tuesday, 9 a.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 541-549-0771. Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 541-549-0771.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Sisters Weather

FORECAST

Evening of storytelling launches ‘change’ tour Storyteller Leah Lamb and Sisters artist Mark Smith will launch their illustrated book, “The Little Book of Change,” and the community-hosted Gatherings of Change Tour with a free evening of storytelling at Paulina Springs Books on Thursday, October 29, at 6 p.m. The authors will share stories from “The Little Book of Change,” while also calling for stories from the community. This gathering will also feature song from Beth Wood and a story from Kellen Klein of Citizens4Community as co-hosts. Change rarely arrives on schedule. It shows up as a move, a loss, an ending or a calling that will not stay quiet. Born in the aftermath of the Los Angeles fires, “The Little Book of Change: A Storied Guide to Navigating Transitions, Loss, and New Beginnings” is Lamb and Smith’s illustrated companion for the moments when

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October 21• Partly Cloudy

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October 22 • Partly Cloudy

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October 23 • Sunny

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Saturday

October 24 • Partly Cloudy

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Sunday

October 25 • Mostly Cloudy

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Monday

October 26 • Mostly Cloudy

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Tuesday

October 27 • Partly Cloudy

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THE RIGHT MOVE STARTS WITH A CALL

Jen McCrystal successfully represents buyers and sellers with residential, commercial, bare land, and farm properties.

Jen McCrystal, Brokerr

541-420-4347 jennifermccrystal@ stellarnw.com

• CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST • FACILITY SPECIALIST • PRESCHOOL LEAD TEACHER See website for details h ps://sistersrecreation.com/connect/jobs - -

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life asks us to begin again. The 246-page book brings together short stories, reflective practices and rituals that readers can open to at any point in their own process of change. Its chapters follow the arc of a transition, from Courting Change, and Know Thyself through Threshold, Loss and Crisis to Rituals for Transition, Integration and Arrival. Smith’s illustrations weave throughout the book, offering a visual language that accompanies readers through the many stages of change. At a time when people are navigating climate disruption, displacement, loss, changing relationships, and profound shifts in how we live and work, Lamb offers another way to think about change: not simply as something to survive, but as a practice we can learn. Lamb is a storyteller, e d u c a t o r, a n d f o u n d e r of the School for Sacred Storytelling, where she teaches story as a living, relational practice that connects us to land, the unseen world, each other and ourselves. Her work draws on years as a wilderness guide, a master ’s degree in social work, and a lifelong exploration of how story shapes identity and creates change. She grew up in Vermont, lived in California for 20 years, and now lives on Maui. Learn more

at www.leahlamb. com. Sisters resident Mark Smith is an artist whose work spans multiple media, and explores the threads that connect people, stories, and the world around them. After meeting Lamb, Smith came to understand his archetype as “the thread,” inspired by the mythological clew — the ball of thread Ariadne gave Theseus to find his way through the labyrinth — and the origin of the word “clue.” His illustrations for “The Little Book of Change” serve as visual clues, inviting readers to

discover and weave their own lives of meaningful change. Smith writes at eleprocon. substack.com.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

October Fourth Friday Artwalk this week By Helen Schmidling Correspondent

Sisters Arts Association’s October 23 Fourth Friday Artwalk arrives this week with autumn’s colors, scents, and flavors. Galleries welcome visitors all day, with featured events starting around 4 p.m. Here’s what to look for. The Campbell Gallery features Melanie Whedon, a selftaught watercolor artist whose nature scenes capture movement, often balancing abstract texture with crisp detail. She restores vintage frames and creates artwork tailored to each find. A full-time architect, Melanie enjoys life with her one-year-old, her husband, and 12-year-old pup. Hood Avenue Art features four artists. Printmaker Carolyn Platt uses monotype printing to express shapes, shadows, and designs in unique, unrepeatable originals, unlike traditional prints. Central Oregon woodturner Bill Lind creates one-of-akind bowls and vessels from downed Oregon forest trees and recycled wood fragments from arborists, reimagining

PHOTO PROVIDED

A monoprint by Carolyn Platt at Hood Avenue Art.

the wood’s former glory. Sharyl Parker McCulloch brings patience and attention to detail to knitted, woven ,and designed wearable fiber art, taking collectors beyond clothing’s utility into selfexpression. Plein air artist Barbara Cella paints Central Oregon’s diverse geography on canvas, using bold, expressive strokes to capture shifting light and shadow, enliven her landscapes, and reconnect viewers with the world around them. Stitchin’ Post’s new exhibit, “The Stitching Showcase,” brings together embroidery, collage, contemporary quilts, garments, and fiber sculpture. This varied collection reflects an eclectic group whose regular gatherings blend social time with creative stitching, sharing, and learning from one another. Featured artists are Marion Shimoda, Mary Noble, Kit Stafford, Ginn Staines, Linda Weick, Karen Brock, Sheryl Rudolph, Belinda Batchelder, Leotie Richards, Tonye Phillips, and Jean Wells. Toriizaka Art invites you to slow down, explore, and discover something unexpected. This month, instead of a single exhibition, the gallery brings together works by artists central to its collection. Since opening in Tokyo in 2006, Toriizaka has looked beyond individual exhibitions, seeking art that speaks across cultures and fosters deeper connections. Today, its collection pairs contemporary Vietnamese and Japanese artists with accomplished PNW artists. Paintings include dreamlike Vietnamese landscapes by Vu Cong Dien and Dao Hai Phong and deeply human figurative works by

Linda Wolff’s tissue paper collages in vintage frames. In early November, that show makes way for Kimry J e l e n ’s 2 0 2 7 Calendar Images. The Rickards Gallery features “Between the Lines,” original figurative oil and charcoal works by Dan PHOTO PROVIDED Rickards. Rather PHOTO PROVIDED “Decisions, Decisions” from the “Between the Fiber art by Kit Stafford at Stitchin’ than individual por- Lines” show at The Rickards Gallery. traits or narratives, Post. these pieces explore shared distinct from his landscapes, Lim Khim Katy and Nguyen emotional experience through this work continues Dan’s Thanh Binh. Abstract works, light, gesture, color, and paint- lifelong exploration of the sculpture, kinetic art, glass, erly marks. The figures are quiet dialogue between light ceramics, textiles, and more both specific and anonymous, and shadow, presence and complete the collection, inviting recognition while absence, observation and feelincluding works by Henriette leaving room for viewers to ing. Whether figure or horiHeiny, Donald MacLane, find themselves. Some paint- zon, the subject changes, but Lawrence Stoller, Karen ings convey quiet restraint; the search remains the same. others use expressive color Ehart, and Don Zylius. Sisters Clay Collective Wildflower Studio features and bold brushwork to reveal is open during Artwalk and small original oil paintings greater emotional intensity it’s a great time to stop by to by local artist Chris Nelson, beneath the surface. Though visit, explore opportunities with new works added for classes and membermonthly. The latest ships, and fellowship paintings depict landwith others who like to scapes, still life, and “play in the mud.” local birds. Diffusers, As you venture out, room sprays, and canlook for the ArtWalls, dles are newly restocked the nongallery busifor fall. nesses that feature work Sisters Gallery & by local artists. The Hub Frame welcomes fall will have an open house with new and favorfeaturing two new artite images by Randall ists: beadwork by Heidi Tillery, showcasing Brickhouse and painting, the Oregon Cascades fiber and sculpture by amid the golden glow Nicole Penoncello. The of aspens before their Barn showcases Raina leaves fade. The images Verhey’s impressionist invite viewers to follow paintings. Sisters Bakery a path into autumn’s displays the Halloween color or meet its brilinspired work by Gloria liance head-on. The galEnchanted and Fika has lery also continues “The new watercolors, linoPHOTO PROVIDED Many Faces of Paper,” leum prints and skatefeaturing Debra Fisher’s “Autumn Leaves” by Randall Tillery at Sisters boards by Sisters artist paper art masks and Gallery & Frame. Andrew Loomis.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Outlaws volleyball squad earns win on senior night By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Lady Outlaws notched a marathon five-set win at home against Pleasant Hill (PH) on Thursday, October 15, with scores of 25-13, 18-25, 17-25, 25-21, 15-9. Prior to the match the squad’s six seniors were honored. Two days earlier they posted a home win against Trinity Lutheran with scores of 25-16, 25-21, 21-25, and 26-24. All six seniors took the floor in the opening set against the Billies on Thursday and the team started out strong with two kills from Maici Cotner and three side-out kills from Josta Fuentes. After an ace from Viv Benson, Sisters went on a four-point run with kills from Brooke Lindsay and Cotner which took them to a 16-8 lead. Cotner served two aces, and Fuentes and Jess Stahn added a kill each to move the score to 22-11. The winning point came off a block-kill from Fuentes. In the second set the Outlaws pushed to a 13-13 tie with kills from Stahn, Fuentes, and Shanitah Few. The Billies’ defense tightened up, their offense went on an eight-point run, and posted the win. The third set was very similar with several ties until midway though when the Billies again took the lead and held on for the win. The Outlaws started fast with a 10-5 lead in the fourth, which included three kills

from M. Cotner, two from Fuentes, and an ace from Stahn. The Billies responded with a three point run to narrow the gap to 10-8, but Sisters extended the lead with two kills from M. Cotner. From there Sisters got three kills from Fuentes, two each from Lindsay and Cotner, and a rare kill from libero Alli Fogarty. Sisters earned the win with an ace from Lindsay and a block-kill from Few. For the first time all season, the Outlaws were forced to a fifth set. Sisters jumped to a 5-1 lead with kills from Lindsay, M. Cotner, and Fuentes. Later, sisters Paityn and Maici Cotner both tallied kills to move the Outlaws to a 9-3 advantage. With the score 13-9, Lindsay put down a kill for the side-out and Maici served up an ace for the win. Seniors P. Cotner, Fogarty, and Lindsay were thrilled with the win. Cotner said, “It was a super-emotional hard-fought win, and I couldn’t be more proud of this team.” “Our team has the grit to push through these long tiring sets,” added Fogarty. “We fight back with energy and as a whole on the court, not individually.” Lindsay commented, “Winning this game was so overwhelming, gratifying, and satisfying. I’m forever grateful to be part of this team.” Coach Monaghan shared his thoughts on senior night and the win. “We felt it important to

New Exhibit Opening

THE STITCHING SHOWCASE

Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk October 23 • 44–66 pp.m. .m.

LAST DAY –

OCT. 31

STOCK UP ON

THE YARN BAR

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first set against the Saints, Fogarty had a serving run that included kills from M. Cotner, Brooke Lindsay and setter P. Cotner that took the Outlaws to a 12-7 lead. The Saints narrowed the gap to 18-16, and then Few put down a kill for a side-out to make it 19-16. Fuentes served the final six points which included back-to-back kills from M. Cotner and a kill from Few. In the second set, Sisters pulled to an early 10-5 lead with good serving runs that included back-to-back aces from M. Cotner, and a serving run from Lindsay that included an ace and kills from Fuentes and Few. Late in the set, P. Cotner put up a block and Fuentes followed with a kill to make it 23-20. The Saints would only score one more point and M. Cotner put down the final kill for the win. At the start of the third set, the Outlaws found themselves down 1-7. After a kill from Fuentes for the sideout, Lindsay served the next five points that included three kills from Kate Mock and tied it up 7-7. Unforced Outlaws errors let the Saints back in and post the win. At the start of the fourth, Mock had three kills that tied it up 4-4. Fogarty served four from the line with two kills from Lindsay and one from M. Cotner to make it 11-7. M. Cotner served four consecutive aces to put the Outlaws on top 18-13, but unforced errors again let the Saints back in and take a two-point

lead. Sisters dug deep, worked together, and made it a nail-biter to the end. Backto-back kills from M. Cotner, a kill from setter P. Cotner, and a final kill from Lindsay gave the Outlaws the win. M. Cotner led the offense with 18 kills and seven aces. Fuentes put down 12 kills and Lindsay and Mock added seven each. Fogarty led the defense with 18 digs, followed by Fuentes with 17, and M. Cotner with 15. P. Cotner recorded 32 assists and Fogarty added six. Few put up two blocks. M. Cotner and Fuentes commented on the win. “Our team chemistry really came together down the stretch and it was a great team win,” said Cotner. “Our serving was some of the best we’ve had all season.” Fuentes added, “Our team camaraderie pulled us through. A big part of our win was how close we are as a team and it really showed.” Coach Monaghan said, “We looked very impressive in the first set. If we can harness that energy we will be tough to beat. Josta and Maici both had double-doubles and Paityn showed some good offensive skills. Our middles played strong adapting to the Trinity Block. We always need to show appreciation to our back row and their ability to start the offense. We are getting there. We just need to peak at the right time.” Sisters was scheduled to wrap up league play on the road at Sweet Home, on Tuesday, October 20.

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have our entire senior class get to start today, as well as Maici getting to start with her sister on senior night,” said Monaghan. “Tonight we executed our offense, our receiving was good, and we looked loose. PH figured out our offense in the second and third, and we just could not put the ball away. In the fourth we came out strong, were running some new offense we’ve been working on, and executed it perfectly. By the fifth set we had the momentum, came out strong, and did not let up. We needed a win like that fivesetter where you are down. It shows what you are made of. The coaches are really proud of this group.” Fogarty and P. Cotner were relentless on defense throughout the entire match, diving to the floor for balls, and continually sacrificing their bodies to keep the ball in the air. Paityn finished the night with a double-double, 48 assists and 20 digs. Fogarty led the, defense with 40 digs, and also had eight assists. M. Cotner and Fuentes also finished with a double-double. Cotner tallied 22 kills, 18 digs, and also served up five aces. Fuentes recorded 15 kills and 13 digs, and Lindsay tallied 13 kills in the match. Benson finished the night with 13 digs and two aces, and Stahn recorded 12 digs and two aces. Few and Fuentes combined for five blocks. Two days earlier in their

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Lady Outlaws Volleyball program honors seniors battle to draw against Crosshill Christian By Rongi Yost Correspondent

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Lady Outlaws soccer squad faced Crosshill Christian (CC) on an artificial turf field at a neutral site in Salem on Thursday, October 15. They battled the Eagles to a 3-3 draw. Nona Smith scored the first goal of the contest in the 27th minute on a clean shot from inside the 18-yard box on a beautiful pass from Devon Stevens. Crosshill Christian responded just one minute later when they capitalized on a deflected pass which created an open shot on the far side of the keeper and evened the score. Teams entered the half tied at 1-1. Sisters came out strong in the second half. Caroline Dean capitalized on an outstanding deflection off a corner kick delivered by Stevens, and Sisters regained the lead. But once again, the Eagles answered with a goal of their own two minutes later and knotted it up 2-2. Later, Echo Wilkie delivered a tremendous set piece from approximately 45 yards out, and found Tanner Gibney with a well-placed ball. Gibney connected with an incredible inside-foot volley following her own header, and sent the ball into the net to give Sisters a 3-2 edge. With 11 minutes left on the clock, the Outlaws relaxed defensively, and gave CC the opportunity to find the equalizer, and bring the match to a final 3-3 score. Coach Ken Polachek told The Nugget that the team continues to make strides in their communication, movement, and overall teamwork week after week. “As the team prepares for the playoffs, and tightens up defensively, especially on the weak side, will be a key focus moving forward,” Polachek said. “Morale remains high, and the Lady Outlaws are looking forward to continuing to compete at a high level as they head into the postseason. With their progress, determination, and team spirit continuing to grow, Sisters is ready for the challenge ahead.” Sisters was scheduled to play at home against C r e s w e l l o n M o n d a y, October 19. They will wrap up league play three days later with a match at Sweet Home.

The Lady Outlaws honored their six seniors prior to their match at home against Pleasant Hill on Thursday, October 15. Seniors included Alli Fogarty, Paityn Cotner, Brooke Lindsay, Shanitah Few, Jessica Stahn, and Vivienne Benson. Fogarty who plays at libero (a defensive specialist), has been a part of the Outlaws varsity squad for three seasons. She has recorded 256 digs, 64 assists, 24 aces, and two kills so far this season. “Alli is the anchor of our defense and is heavily relied on to start the offense,” said Coach Jason Monaghan. “During a game you can see how hard she works and that does not change during practice. She is a stoic leader that expects the best out of herself, and works to achieve it.” Cotner has also been on the varsity squad the past three seasons. She is the Outlaws’ primary setter, and so far this season has dished out 445 assists. She’s also tallied 155 digs, 16 aces, 11 kills, and three blocks. “Paityn is always looking to improve whether it

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sisters Outlaws Volleyball paid tribute to their strong cadre of seniors is adding two inches to the height of a set, to getting to the correct spot on defense,” said Monaghan. “As her confidence has grown she has blossomed as a setter. We asked her to really get out of her comfort zone by running a lot of new sets, and she took the challenge, and we see the results every day.” Lindsay plays at middle and has been part of the varsity team for three years. Brooke has recorded 102 kills, 38 aces, 51 digs, 25 blocks, and 16 assists. “Brooke is a student,” stated Monaghan. “She is another one that has grown this season becoming a top middle in our league. Most importantly she is the energy

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of the team, always positive and enjoying the moment.” Few also plays at middle and has been on varsity the past three years. She’s tallied 54 kills, 29 blocks, 18 digs, and one assist. “Shanitah has raw, athletic ability,” said Monaghan. “The improvement this season has been fun to watch. For an undersized middle she causes a lot of problems for the opposition with her ability to jump out of the gym. She’s also a ton of fun to watch during passing drills at practice.” Stahn, first-year varsity player, has played at outside, opposite, and libero this season. She’s posted 29 digs, 17 kills, nine assists, one ace,

and one block. “Jessica is the Swiss Army Knife of the team as she can play at numerous positions,” said Monaghan. “She’s a very coachable player that implements the instruction given, even if it is uncomfortable at first. She is a team-first player that works hard every day and gives her all when she is called upon.” Benson, also a first-year varsity player, rounds out the six senior players. Viv has eight digs, two assists, and an ace on the season. “Viv brings positive energy and a smile every day,” said Monaghan. “As a defensive specialist she is often in the line of fire during practice. She works extremely hard in practice giving it everything she has. She’s a great teammate and a positive influence on the team.”

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Join The Nugget in Cowboy Country The Nugget is launching an inaugural travel program available to folks in Sisters Country. Working in alliance with Collette, an award-winning guided tour operator, The Nugget is inviting community members to experience an expertly curated tour that connects travelers to iconic sights, unique cultures, and local people of a destination. In this case, that destination is “America’s Cowboy Country.” Next October (2027), Editor-in-Chief Jim Cornelius and those who decide to throw in with this outfit will trek out to explore the American West, making our way through Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park, and more. We’ll overnight in the cowboy towns of Jackson Hole and Cody. Experience the Wild West as it once was with a visit to Deadwood, a town built on gold and gunpowder. We ’ l l e x p e r i e n c e Yellowstone National Park, home to an incredible array of wildlife, and search for free-ranging herds of buffalo in Custer State Park. We’ll marvel at Grand Teton National Park’s towering peaks, marked with mountain glaciers, and soak in views of Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorials. You’re cordially invited to attend a special tour presentation of “America’s Cowboy Country” on Wednesday, November 4, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at The Nugget Newspaper office, 442 E. Main Ave. Please RSVP to nugget@nuggetnews.com or 541-549-9941.

Art, biking and skiing featured in film series

USFS headquarters wins building award

An encore showing of one of the most popular arts documentaries from the past few years, plus new film collections of mountain bikers and skiing will close out the 2026 edition of the “Autumn Arts & Adventure” series at Sisters Movie House & Cafe. S t a r t i n g We d n e s d a y October 28, the local cinema and eatery is featuring the return of “Exhibition on Screen – Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers.” “It played to a couple of packed houses back in 2024,” said Drew Kaza, managing partner of quoin media & entertainment, which owns and operates Sisters Movie House & Café. “So we figured it was high time we bring it back to give folks one more opportunity to see it on the big screen.” The ever popular “gallery on screen” documentary from the UK’s Seventh Arts Productions will screen at 6:15 p.m. on October 28, for one night only. Tickets are $17 for general admission, with reduced price tickets of $14.50 available to Sisters Movie Club members. Continuing in November, the next movie in the series is the Ritual Mountain Bike Film Tour 2026, coming to town on Wednesday November 4. It is a followup to the highly successful 2025 edition, featuring

The Sisters Ranger District office headquarters facility on Pine Street has received the Building a Better Oregon award as the Outstanding Community Enhancement in Sisters award. Representatives from the Sisters Ranger District, DSL Builders, and Steele Associates Architects were on hand for the awards ceremony. “The Building a Better Oregon Awards were created over 50 years ago by the Cascades East Association of Realtors to recognize those who have positively impacted our communities with outstanding new or renovated commercial or industrial buildings/structures or innovative residential developments,” explained Patti LeBlanc of Homestead

extraordinary mountain bike riders from across the globe. The series wraps up on Wednesday November 11, just as winter recreation enthusiasts’ thoughts turn to snow, in hopes of a white Thanksgiving. “The Way Out,” a new ski movie from winter film specialists Matchstick Productions, will help usher in the transition of seasons. This action-packed tribute to the culture and lifestyle of freestyle skiing features locations from Whistler in British Columbia up to Alaska, and across to Japan. “We know our skiing and boarding crowd will be stoked for this one,” continued Kaza. “It’s the 34th annual ski movie from the preeminent winter sports producers Matchstick, in conjunction with their partners at the North Face. Both the settings and skiers are world class.” According to Kaza, “this is the perfect way to finish our autumn season, and after the success of ‘Heart of the Beast’ with Brad Pitt in September and October, it is only fitting to feature the Alaska wilderness once again.” Tickets for all of the events in the series through mid-November are on sale now at the Movie House box office or online at www. sistersmoviehouse.com.

Realty. “Projects are considered for community or neighborhood improvement, innovative design and construction, economic contribution, and environmental sustainability. The new ranger station is a beautiful example of Building a Better Oregon and a well-deserved winner of the award.” Sisters District Ranger Ian Reid stated, “The Deschutes National Forest Sisters Ranger District is honored to be recognized, along with the designer and builders, for a Building a Better Oregon award as the Outstanding Community Enhancement in Sisters for the completion of the new Sisters Ranger Station and administrative site. This project will serve the public for generations to come.”

PHOTO PROVIDED

Representatives from the Sisters Ranger District, DSL Builders and Steele Associates Architects accepted a Building a Better Oregon award for the new district headquarters facility on Pine Street.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Outlaws boys soccer dominates in league play this fall By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Outlaws continued their league dominance with a 8-0 shutout on the road at La Pine October 13. Sisters wasted little time getting their scoring spree started against the Hawks. Just four minutes into the match, Jasper Jensen found Alex Nieto for the opening goal. Jensen scored four minutes later off a pass from Tyler Hamlington, and then assisted Mac Maloney in the ninth minute to give Sisters a 3-0 lead. JB Greenwood added a goal in the 21st minute off a perfectly placed corner kick from Michael Clayton. Clayton was told to put the ball right on Greenwood’s head, and he did it to perfection. Coach Ryley Newport said, “After that, Michael just casually looked over at the coaches like, ‘Like that?’ He makes some really difficult things look effortless.” Tw o m i n u t e s l a t e r, Greenwood assisted Cooper Jacobs for the fifth goal. Ezra Oncken found Maloney for his second goal in the 31st minute. Maloney assisted Jensen twice more in the 35th and 42nd minutes to complete

Jensen’s hat trick. Five different players contributed in the scoring effort. Jensen finished the contest with three goals and two assists. Maloney added two goals and two assists, and Nieto, Greenwood, and Jacobs each scored once. Coach Ryley Newport told The Nugget he was especially pleased with how quickly the Outlaws established their attack and how well they shared the ball. “We came out with a lot of energy, but what impressed me most was the quality of our passing and the way guys were finding each other,” said Newport. “All eight goals were assisted, and several came from really good combinations. We’re starting to see the game develop instead of just reacting to what’s in front of us.” Jensen now leads the states’ 3A boys soccer with 13 goals this season, but Newport told The Nugget his two assists in this contest were just as impressive as his scoring. “Jasper is getting a lot more attention from defenders, and teams are starting to double-team him,” said Newport. “Instead of forcing things, he’s recognizing when his teammates are open and making the right pass. That’s the kind of selfless play that

makes everybody around him better.” Newport also singled out Jacobs, and stated his contributions in the midfield don’t always show up on the stat sheet. He currently has two goals and three assists on the season. Newport stated that Jacob’s ability to control possession and connect the defense to the attack has been one of the Outlaws’ strengths. “Cooper is one of those players who might make the pass before the assist, win a ball that starts an attack, or create space for someone else,” said Newport. “Those things don’t always get recorded, but they’re incredibly important to how we play. It was great so see him get a goal in this contest, because he does so much for this team.” Hamlington was also noted for his passing and movement along the wing, Grayson Humpert for his strong minutes off the bench, and Gryff Dyer for returning to the lineup and helping provide additional depth. Newport said, “We’re learning how to play in different formations without losing our identity. Our ability to use the width of the field, move the ball quickly, and recognize where the space is will become increasingly important as we get closer to the

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playoffs. “We know the competition will get tougher,” added Newport. “But the speed we started with today, the quality of our passing, and the way we’re playing together are things that can translate against anybody. The important thing is that we stay humble and keep getting better.” The Outlaws also celebrated that Nieto was selected to the 2026 Oregon High School Soccer Boys Team of the Week for week six. He was the only Class 3A player among the 11 selected statewide. “Alex has worked hard to get back on the field, and it’s great to see him recognized alongside some of the best players in Oregon,” said Newport. “He’s a big part of what we’re building here.” Jensen and Jacobs shared with The Nugget their thoughts on their team’s

progress this season and hopes for what lies ahead. Jensen said, “I’m really proud of our ability to work as a team in our most recent games. Our passing and overall trust in each other will be fundamental, especially as we enter playoffs. We will see how far we can go.” Jacobs stated, “Everyone has helped us grow as a team, from our goal keepers all the way up to our strikers. We’re learning how we can help each other out and become a better team all around, but more than that, it’s building trust and supporting one another and growing both on and off the field. It almost that we’re becoming a family more than just a high school soccer team.” Sisters was scheduled to play at home against defending league champion Creswell on senior night, Monday, October 19.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS PET OF THE WEEK

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Pick up a grocery bag at Makin’ it Local , 281 W. Cascade Ave., then return it with nonperishable groceries in October, or make a monetary donation to Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank. Goal: Donate 5,000 pounds of nonperishable food to Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank! Learn more at www.feedsisters.com.

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Meet Hobbes! He is an adventurous, playful pup who loves exploring the world around him. Hobbes is already working on important skills like “sit” and “come,” and he’s learning the ropes of walking on a leash. He’s very treat-motivated, which makes training both fun and rewarding!

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FOOD RESOURCES Free Lunches for Seniors

COACO offers no-cost social lunch every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. No reservations needed. No-cost Grab-N-Go lunches weekly on Wednesday and Thursday, from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367.

Weekly Food Pantry

CORE Market, located at 222 N. Trinity Way in Sisters. Mondays, 1 to 2 p.m. Info: 541-588-2332.

Free Weekly Meal Service

Family Kitchen hosts a weekly to-go hot meal on Tuesdays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. Info: www. FamilyKitchen.org.

Free Pet Food

Need pet food for your dog or cat? Call the Furry Friends pet food bank at 541-797-4023 to schedule your pickup. Located at 412 E. Main Ave., Ste. 4, behind The Nugget.

Kiwanis Food Bank

Located at 382 W. Main Ave. Weekly distribution is Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: 541-632-3663.

Thursday, October 22. Th ree local nonprofits will present information about their work. Recent recipients of the group’s combined donations include $10,800 for CORE Market, $10,500 for Living Well with Dementia-Sisters, and $11,900 for the Sisters Community Leadership Initiative. New members are welcome; there is no membership fee. For more information on how to attend a meeting, join the group, or nominate a nonprofit, email 100wwc.Sisters@gmail.com or call/text 541-912-0750.

The 50th Snowflake Boutique

Friday, November 6, 1 to 8 p.m. & Saturday, November 7, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Deschutes County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Cascade Lakes South Building. Admission $4, kids under 12 free. Local artists, crafters, and food specialties. Santa will visit on Friday 1 to 4 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Post-expense proceeds donated to Central Oregon charities.

Outlaw Theater Club Presents: The Poe Plays

Friday, October 30, 7 p.m. at Sisters Middle School Commons. Th is is a horror comedy adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories written by Quinn Baldwin. Free for the whole family; suggested $10 donation to Starshine’s scholarship fund.

Voter P V Pamphlet hl M Missing i i Pages

Some Deschutes County Voters’ Pamphlets are missing pages. Affected pamphlets skip from page 16 to 41 due to a reported printing mishap. The missing pages include some arguments for and all the arguments against Measure 9-185, which will determine whether the county adopts a district map for county commissioner races. If your pamphlet is missing pages, you may ask for a replacement at the post office, or access the information online at https:// www.deschutescounty.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/8747/ November-3-2026-GeneralElection-Voters-Pamphlet.

First Friday Bingo Night – Honoring Our Veterans

Friday, November 6. Locals and visitors of all ages welcome! All Veterans receive a free meal and half-off the game fee. Th is is a cash event. Meal options for purchase, featuring crowd favorites, begins at 5 p.m. Games begin at 5:30 p.m. $20 packet includes three cards for each of 10 games with a local merchant gift card awarded as a prize, plus an additional card for the 11th game featuring $100 cash prize. 50/50 Raffle option: tickets are $2 each or 6 for $10. Half of raffle pot will benefit Band of Brothers. The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 121 Brooks Camp Rd., Sisters. Info: 541-549-7087.

Free Dinner

The community is invited to a free dinner at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 121 Brooks Camp Road, on Sunday, October 25, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Announce Your Celebrations!

Faith, F i h Hope H & Charity Ch i Vineyards Harvest Fest

Saturday, October 24, 12 to 5 p.m. Free entry, kid friendly, wine & pizza. Pumpkins in the Vineyard. 541-526-5075.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Haunted Maze & Open House

Friday, October 30, 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, October 31, 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Sisters Fire Station, 301 S. Elm St. Families can stop by for carnival games, refreshments, prizes, candy, and plenty of spooky fun.

Sisters Downtown Trickor-Treating

Saturday, October 31, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. Take a self-guided tour of local businesses throughout downtown and enjoy special Halloween treats.

Join STARS – Provide Medical Rides.

You choose when you drive. Training and mileage reimbursement provided. Learn more and apply: www. starsride.org/drive-for-us.

Honey Bees & Brews

Monthly social gathering at Lazy Z Ranch every 4th Thursday at 5 p.m. All beekeepers and wanna-bees welcome. For more info: Clyde, 458-206-8470.

Living Well With Dementia Sisters Support Groups

Support groups meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Sisters Community Recreation Center. The Early Stage Support Group meets in the Whychus Room. The Care Partner Group meets in the Metolius Room. For information call 541-5880547.

Rubberbands in Demand

Sisters community notices may run at no charge. Email nugget@nuggetnews.com.

Please help us save the large rubberbands that bundle our newspapers and bring them by our office for reuse.

SISTERS-AR EA CHURCHES Baha’i Faith For information, devotions, study groups, etc., contact Shauna Rocha 541-647-9826 • www.bahai.org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteachings.org

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (ELCA) 386 N. Fir St. • 541-549-5831 www.shepherdoft hehillslutheranchurch.com 10 a.m. Sunday Worship

Chapel in the Pines Camp Sherman • 541-815-9153 10 a.m. Sunday Worship

Sisters Church of the Nazarene 67130 Harrington Loop Rd. • 541-588-3065 www.sistersnaz.org • info@sistersnaz.org 10 a.m. Sunday Worship

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 452 Trinity Way • Branch President, 541-977-5559 10 a.m. Sunday Sacrament Meeting The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration 121 N Brooks Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087 www.transfiguration-sisters.org 9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Episcopal Eucharist Worship Gospel Church of Sisters meeting at The Belfry, 302 E. Main Avenue. 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship, childcare 0-5th grade 11 a.m. Lunch every 2nd Sunday of the month. www.gospelchurchofsisters.org • info@gcsisters.org

Sisters Community Church (nondenominational) 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. • 541-549-1201 www.sisterschurch.com • info@sisterschurch.com 8 a.m. Daybreak Service • 10 a.m. Sunday Worship St. Edward the Martyr Roman Catholic Church 123 Trinity Way • 541-549-9391 5:30 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass • 7 and 9 a.m. Sunday Mass 5:30 p.m. Tuesday Mass • 8 a.m. Wednesday-Friday Mass Wellhouse Church 442 Trinity Way • 541-549-4184 htt ps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com 10 a.m. Sunday Worshipp

The Resting Place meeting at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. www.restingplace.us • hello@restingplace.us 5 p.m. Sunday Worship

POLICY: Nonprofits, schools, churches, birth, engagement, wedding, and anniversary notices may run at no charge. Business items do not run on this page. All submissions subject to editing and run as space allows. Email nugget@nuggetnews.com or drop off at 442 E. Main Ave. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays.

Trunk-or-Treat T k T & Village Vil illl Green Park Bash

Saturday, October 31, 2 to 4 p.m. at 305 S. Fir St. Families can enjoy Halloween activities, eerie music, decorated trunks, and a costume contest. The event is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Sisters. Admission is a canned food donation to support the community.

Wood Stacking Party at Rimrock Ranch

Wednesday, October 28, 12 to 2 p.m. Roll up your sleeves and help the Deschutes Land Trust stack wood at Rimrock Ranch. A wood delivery coming in for Rimrock Ranch needs to be moved and stacked and ready for winter. Register at www. deschuteslandtrust.org/ volunteer.

Volunteer Day at Seed to Table

Thursday, October 29, 3 to 5 p.m. at Seed to Table, corner of N. Dee Wright and E. Black Butte Ave. Weed, plant, harvest, and learn alongside their Farm Team. No experience needed. Kids are welcome with adult guardian. www. seedtotableoregon.org/ volunteer-with-us.

SISTERS LIBRA RY

EVENTS

Family Story Time

Wednesday, October 21 and 28, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Community Room. 0-5 yrs. Interactive story time with books, songs, and rhymes!

Story Time Craft

Wednesday,October 21 and 28, 11 to 11:40 a.m. Community Room. Paint, draw, color, and glue, let’s try something new!

We’re Here! Wednesdays

Wednesday, October 21, 2 to 4 p.m. Community Room. Drop in Costume workshop.

B.U.R.S.T. - Fall on the Farm!

Thursday, October 22, 3 to 4 p.m. Community Room. Sensory development and early literacy skill development through play.

Scales & Tales

Friday, October 23, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Community Room. Beginner tabletop role-playing game for 8-12 year olds.

Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations

Friday, October 23, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Study Room. Drop-in social services assistance.

Youth Media Literacy: Two Truths and AI

Friday, October 23, 2 to 3 p.m. Community Room. Test your knowledge of real vs. AI in this fun game.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Snowflake Boutique marks 50 years A Central Oregon Boutique moved to holiday institution is Westminster Chapel marking a half-century and began opening to of operation as the the public on Saturday, Snowflake Boutique while Friday remained runs Friday-Saturday, invitation-only. Over November 6-7 at the the next four years, Deschutes County the event was held at Fairgrounds Cascade Westminster Chapel, Lakes South Building. Juniper Chapel, and The boutique features the Redmond Hotel. artists an artisans from In 1988, it moved to across the region, the Howard Mayfield including several from building at the “old” Sisters: Roger and Pat Redmond Fairgrounds. Lamoreux, Tana Steers, In 1995, Friday admisAngie Gardinier, and sion was opened to Sue Kingman. the public. Since Snowflake Boutique 1999, Snowflake is a consignment show Boutique has been rather than a booth held at the Deschutes PHOTO PROVIDED show. Members’ and Snowflake Boutique started as an invitation-only holiday bazaar 50 years ago, and has County Fair and Expo consignors’ items are grown to become a treasured Central Oregon holiday event for the public. Center. displayed like they The boutique supwould be in a boutique ports local nonprofits Riggs brought the idea with a portion of proceeds. or store, allowing shoppers weaver Diane Dorsch. The first show, held at Riggs’s from Seattle, where she knew to browse at their own pace The Snowflake Boutique home on Canyon Drive in of a long-running home- opens Friday, November 6, and make a single payment Redmond, featured work based holiday bazaar. After 1 to 8 p.m., and continues before leaving. S n o w f l a k e B o u t i q u e from 25 crafters and was a seven years in Riggs’ home, Saturday, November 7, 9 began in 1975, founded by private event for family and the crafters formed a co-op. a.m. to 5 p.m. In 1 9 8 3 , S n o wflak e quilter Virginia Riggs and friends.

SISTERS-AREA MON – SUN • OCT 19 – 25

ORDER ONLINE for takeout:

SistersSaloon.net

Classic 1912 Saloon & Family-Friendly Dining OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sun-Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

541-549-RIBS • 190 E. Cascade Ave.

Th./Fri. • Oct. 22 & 23 Glitterfox

7 p.m. • BendTicket.com $20 A formidable indie-rock powerhouse.

Sat., Oct. 24 • 7 p.m. Abby Webster and her Imaginary Band BendTicket.com $20

Uniquely woven alt-country, indie folk, bedroom pop, and honky-tonk.

Fri., Oct. 30 • 8 p.m. HAllOweEn CosTumE

dAncE PArtY!

David Jacobs-Strain & the Crunk Mt. Boys with Christopher Worth BendTicket.com $25

Pub opens 30 minutes prior to shows.

302 E. Main Ave. • Sisters www.BelfryEvents.com

Events & Entertainment

Paulina Springs Books, Sisters Movie House, Lazy Z Ranch, Pine Meadow Ranch Under Western Skies presented by Sisters Festival of Books brings together fiction, nonfiction, and poetry rooted in the landscapes and communities of the broader American West. This gathering highlights work where place is central. Explore how Western environments shape identity, history, and imagination. Schedule and tickets: sistersfob.org.

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 21

Sisters Movie House Autumn Arts & Adventure: "Ashima" follows elite rock climber Ashima Shiraishi as she travels to South Africa to attempt to become the youngest climber to master one of the world’s most challenging climbs. 6:30 p.m. Tickets at www.sistersmoviehouse.com. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 22

Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Lecture – Adaptation: Language and Fashion” 6 to 7:30 p.m. This lecture explores how Indigenous language revitalization and fashion can serve as powerful tools for cultural expression, storytelling, entrepreneurship, and community connection. This event is free to attend, registration is required at https:// roundhousefoundation.org/events/. For more info call 541-9040700 or email arts@roundhousefoundation.org. The Belfry Live Music: Glitterfox 7 p.m. $20. Tickets: bendticket.com. Paulina Springs Books Author Event: Marina Richie presents "Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees" at 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 23

The Belfry Live Music: Glitterfox 7 p.m. $20. Tickets: bendticket.com. Downtown Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk 4 to 7 p.m. Galleries and shops feature art and demonstrations. Information: www.sistersarts.org. Makin' it Local 4th Friday Canned Wine Night with Live Ukulele Music from Tristan 4 to 6 p.m., music starts at 4:30. Bring nonperishable food for "Feed Sisters 2026" to 281 W. Cascade Ave. and enter drawing for prizes. More info: www.feedsisters.com. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 24

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 30 (cont.)

The Belfry Live Music: Abby Webster and her Imaginary Band Singer/songwriter/musician Abby Webster uniquely weaves alt-country, indie folk, bedroom pop, and honky-tonk. 7 p.m. Tickets: bendticket.com. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Clay and Texture: Impressions from Nature Workshop" October 24 & 31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us for a ceramics workshop where participants learn the fundamentals of hand-building with clay while drawing inspiration directly from the landscape of Pine Meadow Ranch. Using natural materials such as leaves, bark, rocks, and other organic textures, students create unique surface designs through press-molding and imprinting techniques. All skill levels are welcome. $180. Registration is required at https://roundhousefoundation.org/ events/. Info: 541-904-0700 or arts@roundhousefoundation.org.

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tony Lompa 6 to 8 p.m. No cover! Courtyard at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Paulina Springs Books Author Event: Literary Arts Presents Oregon Book Award Author Tour, slightly spooky edition with four authors. at 6:30 p.m. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Wine & Watercolor Workshop 12 to 2 p.m. $35. Sisters Art Station hosts painting on canvas. Register at www.sistersartstation.com. Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music, community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

MONDAY • NOVEMBER 2

SUNDAY • OCTOBER 25

TUESDAY • OCTOBER 27

Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 28

Sisters Movie House Autumn Arts & Adventure: "Exhibition on Screen: Van Gogh Poets & Lovers" 6:15 p.m. Tickets at www.sistersmoviehouse.com. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 29

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt "Handpicked Series," 6 to 8 p.m. No cover. Info: www.frankiesinsisters.com. Paulina Springs Books Author Event: An Evening of Storytelling and Change with Leah Lamb and Mark Smith at 6 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 30

The Belfry Live Music + Halloween Costume Dance Party with David Jacobs-Strain and The Crunk Mountain Boys with Christopher Worth 8 p.m. $25. Tickets: bendticket.com. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

Event listings are $40. Submit items by 5 p.m. Fridays to jess@nuggetnews.com.

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 31

Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Halloween Blowout Bash 8 p.m. DJ Chris Ossig. Costume contest, and silent auction. $10 admission at the door to benefit Ronald McDonald House. lnfo: 541-549-6114.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 1

Paulina Springs Books Women's Writing Group Womb Writers with Cat Tadlock. A monthly women’s writing group seeking to gather a sacred community supporting each other’s creative passions. Creative writing tips, tools, and prompts. 3:30 to 5 p.m. Suggested donation: $25; text Cat at 541-690-9545 to RSVP. Paulina Springs Books Poetry Gathering "The Pause Button," an informal monthly gathering for poets and poetry enthusiasts. Bring a poem or two to share. Listen, discuss, and write. Free. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. More info at www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

TUESDAY • NOVEMBER 3

Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Pool Tournament 5:30 p.m. Info: 541-549-6114.

WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 4

Sisters Movie House Autumn Arts & Adventure: "Ritual Mountain Bike Tour 2026" 6:15 p.m. Tickets at www.sistersmoviehouse.com. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

FRIDAY • NOVEMBER 6

The Belfy Let’s Dance! A Community Social Dance with Outlaw Strings 6:30 p.m. Tickets: www. citizens4community.com/events/. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. Frankie's in Sisters Singer-Songwriter Series: Sue Moore, Rachelle Otasu, & Jim Cornelius 6 to 8 p.m. $10. Tickets: www.frankiesinsisters.com.

SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 7

Frankie's in Sisters Open Mic Music lovers can enjoy a variety of local talent, 6 to 8 p.m. Sign ups, 5:30. No cover; upstairs. Info: www.frankiesinsisters.com.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Author takes on perils and possibilities of AI By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

When Howard Jameson digs into a topic, he really digs in. “I have a tendency to overdo,” he told The Nugget with a grin. “When I dig into things, I tend to really dig deep.” With a background in tech, and a serious concern for what the future holds, Jameson dug into the potentials and perils of artificial intelligence (AI). The result is “Bot Tales,” described as “a series of vignettes looking at robots, sentient androids and AI from the viewpoint of humans as we learn to interact with them.” According to Jameson, “the book started by accident.” He grew interested in the direction of military technology and warfare, and the implications of the accelerated speed at which military tech must operate to stay ahead of adversaries. “Because of their speeds, humans will have little control over them,” he said. His initial concerns centered around the impacts on society of work being replaced by robots, and then AI. What happens if there is massive loss of jobs due to these trends. And what does

it mean for the moral foundations of society. “If you build service robots, you are saying philosophically that you prefer slavery over freedom,” he said. If robots become integrated into our lives, conflicts are inevitable. “Humans are not rational,” he says. “Humans are not consistent. And it will drive [a robot] crazy.” The stories engage with these themes. One story deals with the potentials of military systems that make very technical, very fast shoot/don’t shoot decisions that outpace humans’ ability to make moral and ethical decisions. “In my book, one of the stories is basically exactly how that happens,” he said. The stories “always bring it back to the human side,” Jameson said. “Because if you can’t feel it, you can’t know it.” The human side — and the ornithological one — brought Jameson to Sisters. Howard and his wife Lynn moved to Sisters in 2007 from Silicon Valley where they both worked. They had spent 2000 through 2005 filming the birds on the east side of the Cascades. When it was time to retire, there was

no question as they “already knew this was God’s special area,” Jameson said. Like all newcomers to Eastern Oregon they loved the green, the quiet, the abundance of nature, and the friendly people. Birding remains a major passion for the Jamesons. Jameson’s interests in robotics and AI have suddenly become acutely relevant, as even the creators of AI have expressed profound concerns about the controlabilty of their creations — and the potential for actual human extinction. “They’re not lying,” Jameson told The Nugget. He later expounded on his concerns: “You ask if I believed we would be extinct in ten years,” he said. “The answer is simple but the reasons are complex like everything with AI. My answer is, it is likely at the current speed of AI agent creations, if we don’t do something about AI very soon. “I was forced to look into it deeply for the book ‘Bot Tales,’” he said. “I do not believe humans will be totally made extinct by AI agents nor do I think humans will be totally extinct if we have a nuclear war. But both of these events are likely to be massive killers of humans. Both for the same reasons.” Systems that deliver our

communications, food, and water are extremely complex — and extremely vulnerable, Jameson notes. “If due to warfare caused by a GSI AI bot agent that caused either a EMP (electromagnetic pulse) nuclear device to be used on us, or the bot agents were able to overload our electrical systems causing destruction of the transformers that feed electricity to our homes and pump stations, it would take years to replace the transformers assuming we could with only hand labor and the correct materials. Before we rebuild the transformers, we would have to rebuild the generators if a EMP device was used. Again, no electricity means no water flow and no communications. “Therefore I would predict that in the event of either scenario above it is highly likely that between 70 percent and 90 percent of humans would be dead within 90 days of either scenario. Most would die of lack of water and food, but many will die in the fight for survival to take and keep water and food from those who have it and can’t defend themselves. But some humans will be close to streams or lakes and will have water. If they can they find seeds, learn to hunt, and manage the cold,

they might survive.” It’s not a cheerful scenario, Jameson acknowledges — but he is not without hope. He hopes that his book can contribute to a conversation that must happen to push leaders into taking action. “If enough people take the time to learn and start talking to each other about what’s going on, Congress will be forced to do something,” he said. “First, tell your government representatives at every level from city, county, state and federal to not just study this, but to stop this now. Second, demand a stop to hyperscaler memory factory building and demand license controls on who, and the type of tokens they sell.” “Bot Tales” is available at Paulina Springs Books and in other online venues.

SUDOKU SOLUTION for puzzle on page 19

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Your Store celebrates 40 years in Sisters By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent

Back in 1986, Bonnie Halosek had a little clothing store in Redmond that she describes as “scratching out a little bit of a living for me.” Recently married to Neal Halosek, who was working as a teacher in Madras, she found a better location for her shop, but didn’t want to pay double rent with just one business. “So Neal and I brainstormed and remembered that there were a lot of successful $10 Stores in California, and decided to open one there in Redmond,” said Bonnie. The store succeeded beyond their expectations. “It was absolutely insane,” said Bonnie. “We basically went through our entire inventory in 10 days and had to head back to LA for more.” The couple realized they had stumbled on a very good thing, and soon people were asking them about opening another store and the couple brainstormed once again and decided to try a second store in Sisters. “We started the store using our two credit cards, which each had a $3,000 limit because we didn’t have funds from any other sources,” she explained. “So it all got going for $6,000.” In ensuing years, they opened stores in Bend and Sunriver as well. Ultimately, they operated over 25 stores all over Oregon. “Over time, however, we realized that the stores that were doing the best were those in resort locations, so we cut back to Sisters, Seaside, and Sunriver,” she said. The Haloseks worked full time until three years ago when they turned 79 and handed over the day-to-day operations to family members, many of whom had worked with them for years. Neal remembers a lot of 16-hour days, but he loved it. He said, “Having the business was like having a baby…the work wasn’t work.” “It’s always been a family business,” said Bonnie. “In fact my dad worked for us for

What I remember most when we started was how many of the businesses were run by women and I was intrigued. Nearly every business in town was operated by women. — Bonnie Halosek a while because running the businesses was like having a tiger by the tail with deliveries all over Oregon. He came out of retirement at age 70 and worked with us until he was 87 or 88.” Looking back to the late 1980s when they first came to Sisters, Bonnie recalls the population being around 700. “What I remember most when we started was how many of the businesses were run by women and I was intrigued,” she said. “Nearly every business in town was operated by women.” Since the original franchise was a $10 Store Bonnie said the merchandise they were focused on had to be inexpensive to fit the concept behind the store. “We were always chasing fashion items that were name brands that we could sell for $10,” she said. Over time they realized that they needed to focus more on what tourists wanted, which included clothing with designs reflecting the town and nearby place names and resorts that people wanted as memories of their trip. At first they contracted out for printed clothing, but soon came to realize it would be much better to do all the printing themselves so that they would have the materials they needed at the time they needed them, rather than waiting for shipments to come in. “At first we just did transfers, but that was not efficient,” she said. “We had to have six employees working full time to keep up with the inventory using the transfer machines.

! S R O O D T OU

“Our grandson, Jake Turpin, was in college and told us he planned to take a class in screen printing and wondered if that would be something the business could benefit from. As it turned out, when he finished school he approached us and said he would like to do screen printing and work for the family business, and that is what he did.” They now own four screen printers and do all their own creations for the three stores, as well as selling wholesale. In recent years, they have added machine embroidered items to their inventory. “Our merchandise includes T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, sweatpants, and any unique garments that would look good with a screen print or embroidery,” she said. The Haloseks, now 82, attribute their success to hard work, long hours, and flexing with the times. Other family members contributing the success over the years include daughters Cara Hudson (comptroller) and Catherine Hayden (manager in Sisters and Sunriver), grandchildren Jake Turpin (warehouse manager, screen printer, buyer), Haylie Bokowy-Wojcik (manager of Seaside stores), and James Roach (screen printer and maintenance at the warehouse, stores, farm). “Of course we have also had amazing employees, several long-time, who have made it all work,” said Bonnie. She added, “You know I have always said no one is successful on their own and I think of our landlords, Bill and Mike Reed, who were instrumental in helping us get started, as is true for many other businesses, since they built so many of the structures that still house downtown businesses to this day.” The future looks good according to Bonnie despite the past year being what she

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calls “a challenge.” “Everything is just so much more expensive that we have to look back to before the pandemic to see a year

with business figures similar to this year,” she said. “But we’ve seen a lot of ups and downs over 40 years, and will continue adapting.”

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Commentary...

The story of Three Creek By Scott Bowler Columnist

Several years back, I spent a lovely weekend camping at Three Creek Meadows, first hiking up and along Tam McArthur Rim, looking down at the lay of the land. Next day I hiked up Little Three Creek Trail, around Little Three Creek Lake, and back around Three Creek Lake down to the campground. I fished a bit, bird-watched, swam, photographed copious wildflowers, and reveled in the spectacular views. As I walked around the campground meadow each evening though, I got curious about where the eponymous three creeks actually were, and where Three Creek and its water went. Apparently Three Creek gets its name in one of two different ways: either is it named for the three tiny creeks that flow into the larger lake, or it takes its name from the three smaller creek branches that converge around the big meadow a mile or so below the two lakes. Three Creek Meadow is where the Horse Campground is today, and Three Creek, coming together there as one stream, flows out of there to the northeast via a culvert under Forest Road 16. It’s easy to see the small, old earthen dams at the northern ends of both Three Creek and Little Three Creek Lakes, and not hard to imagine the thinking behind building them many years ago: raise the water level to retain more water for summer use. When they were built, someone obviously claimed water rights, likely having it in mind to sell the water to farmers in the flat lands three thousand feet below. Over time, the dams began to degrade, and the larger one at Three Creek Lake was partially breached to lower the water level in the name of safety. This is partly why the lake today has those lovely

wide white sandy beaches near the campgrounds. The dam at Little Three Creek Lake is slowly eroding, but so far is still retaining much of the impounded water. Interestingly, you can still see the remnants of the drowned trees in Little Three Creek Lake, and when looking down on it from above one can easily make out the original, deeper central part of the lake, surrounded now by shallows which are slowly giving way to advancing meadows and groves of willow. I had heard from several people in town over the years that Three Creek was a tributary to Whychus Creek, thus eventually the Deschutes River. Since I’ve hiked and followed virtually all of Whychus Creek, from its headwaters springing out of several alpine meadows and tarns east of South Sister, to its confluence with the Deschutes River below Alder Springs, this didn’t make sense. This took several years, via many different hikes, walking both trails and cross country rambles, plus exploring several back roads, to get the gist of Whychus Creek. From all of these explorations, it became clear that there basically weren’t any tributaries coming into Whychus Creek from the east. There were a few remnants of old irrigation ditches running to the east from Whychus, however, but no surface streams coming into it from the east. I did find, however, several old water diversions noted here and there on maps, the southernmost being Snow Creek Ditch, which joins Three Creek down in the meadow. Snow Creek is the eastern most tributary to Whychus Creek, and I’ve seen where the old ditch takes off near the Pole Creek Meadows trail. But the ditch itself, dropping a few hundred feet as it runs eastward, thereby crossing around the dividing ridge, is long dry.

PHOTO BY SCOTT BOWLER

Anyway, the idea that Three Creek joined Whychus Creek just didn’t make sense to me. It’s true that Elm Street/Road 16 does follow a southerly route above the east side of Whychus Creek, but it’s pretty clear that just after the pavement ends, and gravel starts, the road crosses over a small ridge and drops into a different watershed, that of Three Creek, right at the meadows. Hmm…so where does Three Creek actually go? Since I hadn’t ever noticed Three Creek on the lowlands below Three Creek Meadows, I decided to track it — which turns out to be far

easier said than done. My first try was to follow Three Creek out of the campground in the meadow as it crosses under the road and flows off to the northeast. I packed my tenkara fly gear, a map, and a big lunch, and dog and I set off downstream. After several difficult, hot, and very scratchy hours, although not very many miles, crashing through thick brush, wading through swampy bit and pools, and climbing over rocks and logs, dog and I sensibly gave up. Forest Road 1628 runs above the north side of Three Creek, a few hundred feet above the

course of the stream, so eventually we bushwhacked up to it and walked the long way around back to the truck. Apparently we had bailed out a little too early, as the same forest road later crosses Three Creek further downstream, just above a diversion near Three Creek Butte, here named as a continuation of the Snow Creek Ditch from higher up. This got me thinking and I decided to investigate further, sending me into a very deep, convoluted, and confusing rabbit hole that exemplifies the craziness of Oregon irrigation and water rights. But that’s another story.

Trail work…

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

Sisters Trails Alliance (STA) broke ground on a Sisters Tie reroute on Friday, October 16, as part of a volunteer day. The reroute is one of 19 trail actions planned in the Sisters Trail Additions & Realignment (STAR) project. The STAR plan calls for nearly 17 miles of new trail, the formalization of 30 miles of existing routes, and the realignment of about 12 miles of trail to improve wildlife habitat and the user experience.

Supporting the most vulnerable children in the world.

You can help change a child’s life forever when you sponsor a child, provide education, or fund a project. Learn more at www.worldschildren.org. PO Box 2345, Sisters • 541-904-0789 • info@worldschildren.org THIS AD SPONSORED BY THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

In the

PINES By T. Lee Brown

A better ballot It’s time to vote. What of Measure 9-185? It’s the County Commission districting map, important for all of us who live in Deschutes County. We the People already voted to change our Commission from three people to five. We voted to change the candidacies from party-oriented to nonpartisan. We v o t e d o u t o n e longtime Commissioner. Another didn’t run for office. So, we’re getting new blood in the leadership. That’s all good. We didn’t vote to slice Deschutes County into districts. Today, unfortunately, we aren’t getting to vote Yes or No on whether creating districts is the right thing to do. Instead, we’re being presented with one measly district map to choose from. Measure 9-185 proposes a map for how our next batches of new, five-member County Commissioners should be elected. But the map was put forward by the old, smaller Commission and their handpicked committee. Hello! We’ve already made it clear that we don’t want a tiny group of Commissioners running the County. Doesn’t take a big

leap to determine that we don’t want them forcing a new electoral district map on us. Well, not even the whole three-member Commission cooked this up. It was just two Commissioners. Two people determining our collective, long-term fate. Whatever comes next, all of Deschutes County needs to be represented, from Wilt Road to Hood Avenue, from La Pine to Prineville. The motto “Don’t Bend Sisters” resonates with me. But this map stinks. The process of getting it to us, the voters, was crummy. You can read about that in newspapers throughout Central Oregon over the last couple years. The County Commission has been dominated for years by people with connections to special interests, Commissioners who approved water-sucking resorts like Thornburgh rather than pay attention to water issues and the natural beauty and resources of the region, not to mention the desires of most local residents. It’s time to move on from the Patti Adair and Tony DeBone model of running Deschutes County. The proposed districting map is an instrument to keep their pals in power and their tired ideas going. Sorry, guys, it’s just not 2017 anymore, or 2002. Things are changing and we have to adapt. Wildfires happen every year now. The local economy continues to evolve and change. Climate change is real. Glaciers shrink and snowfall can be pitiful; just look up at the mountains over Pole Creek Ranch—you don’t need a degree in science to see what’s going on up there. In years like this one, we barely get to ski at Hoodoo. We visit our favorite springs

and streams only to find them dried up. What do you think replenishes our allegedly bottomless aquifer? Does the Water Fairy visit in the night with her magical Water Wand? Or do glaciers and snow have something to do with it? A zillion people have moved here. Do we promote housing for them and their kids, who will grow up here, or do we prioritize second homes in those water-careless resorts? Do we carve up agriculture landscapes to make that happen? I’m voting no on 9-185 — not because I want the higher population of Bend to rule over our small towns and rural areas. I’m voting no because we should have more choices for how we get represented, not just this one map. The new County Commissioners we’ve already voted for, and the ones we will vote for soon... once they’re all in office and paying attention, they should take this thing back to the drawing board. D o n ’t g e r r y m a n d e r. Don’t pander to special interests. Be realistic. Give us something better to vote on next time. Maybe even let the voters choose from more than one map or concept! Maybe we could have three or four pre-drawn, geographic districts plus one or two floating positions. Those floaters would be Commissioners we’d all vote for together, regardless of where we live. Heck, the new Commission should have new ideas. They can come up with one that’s better than mine. So, my friends, I hope you’ll consider voting no on Measure 9-185. Your no vote will tell the new Commission to put something better on a future ballot.

Fall brings glorious colors to Sisters...

PHOTO BY JESS DRAPER

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

LOCAL BUSINESSES ARE

AT YOUR

BestVue Blinds BestVue Blinds is always on the lookout for products and services that enhance their customers’ quality of life. The family-owned and operated company in Sisters now offers Sarasota, Florida-based MagnaTrack outdoor screens. They wanted a screen and shade product that would meet their customers’ needs — and one that could stand up to tough high desert outdoor conditions. “We have really high winds here,” said Mike Hernandez, who handles residential sales, installation, and service for the company. “Most outdoor shades don’t last that

long, but these are built for hurricane-rated winds,” Hernandez said. The continued determination to offer customers the best in both product and services is a characteristic ethic of the company: “We want people to be happy when we’re done. We’re down to take the extra steps. We care about the work we do,” Hernandez said. The company was built on a tight-knit group that operates like family. Gilbert Porraz, a longtime employee, is now a partner in the business.

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NAPA Auto Parts Customers who walk into NAPA Auto Parts at 303 E. Hood Ave. in Sisters will find the shelves fully stocked — with more on the way — and a staff that’s ready to help them with their needs. Owner Chris Hylland and General Manager Mike Chaput opened the store, newly acquired from Baxters last month, and immediately began getting the store stocked up. Whether you need a windshield wiper replaced, or a battery, or a jug of coolant, they’ll have what you need. Any orders have a very quick turnaround.

Alpine Land Management The landscapes we form around our property are a critical part of our quality of life. Vernon Stubbs of Alpine Land Management has a passion for the land that translates into his work. That work is demonstrated with planting native dryland grasses and managing timber for optimal health and fire resistance (silviculture). Stubbs’ focus on native grasses means your landscape will have low demand for water and keeps soil erosion down. Organic fertilizers liven the soil and help build a nutrient-rich landscape. He will work with

a landowner on a comprehensive plan to manage Alpine land restoration — from small lots to large designated forests. His approach is to promote biodiversity through thinning, especially of juniper, and controlled “jackpot” burning of concentrated fuels. His work improves forest health and makes land more resilient in the face of the kind of wildfires that swept across Sisters Country the last two summers. Alpine Land Management offers firewood from Stubbs’ restoration work on his property at $250/cord. Call 541-977-6711.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Kimberly Henderson Massage You work hard; your body pays a price for it. From a sore back to aching tech neck, massage is an option you should consider. Massage Therapist Kimberly Henderson wants to help you: “Massage is for every body and everybody.” Bodywork may seem like an indulgence, but it is actually a vital way to take care of yourself so that you can keep going, both at work and in meeting the demands of life. “I’m a blue collar girl. I grew up surrounded by the trades. My dad is lineman. My brother is a trucker. I drove a forklift in a

warehouse for a bit. I’ve been a hairdresser for 25 years... I want to help those people. “People in the trades rely on their bodies as their primary tool. Those same people get on my table, thinking they feel ‘fine’ but then as we work, they feel how much relief massage offers. Relaxation to deep tissue, all have benefit to improve our bodies. Accessibility and affordability are important to me as a caregiver in our community, so I make that a priority in my practice.” Pink collar, blue collar, athletes, and moms... you probably need a massage.

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BANR Enterprises While BANR Enterprises takes on major commercial projects across Oregon, owner Scott Davis really loves doing residential work in Sisters Country. “The best part of it for me personally is seeing the faces of the people when it’s done,” he said. BANR brings three decades of experience to bear on all kinds of jobs — and customer satisfaction means that most of their work comes through referrals. “For me, personally, that means a lot,” Davis said. BANR does a wide range of work: building rock walls, removing trees, grading,

paving, and concrete work. They do a lot of maintenance and rehabilitation for local road districts. Davis emphasizes that addressing any road issues as early as possible helps keep costs down. The quality of BANR’s work earns plaudits — but equally important is responsiveness. “We don’t know any other way,” Davis said. “Your project is significant — simple as repairing a sidewalk to building a horse arena or (building) a mile of road.” BANR also offers screened yard products and gravel direct to the consumer.

Sisters Fence & Deck Sisters may be entering the fall and win- can deliver. ter season — but that doesn’t mean the It’s the relationship with those customend of project season. ers that lies at the foundation of Sisters Sisters Fence & Deck builds fences Fence & Deck. throughout the winter months. We’re all “We appreciate the continued support, keeping our fingers crossed that the crew year after year,” said founder Pat Burke. will be busy doing snow removal, but “We pride ourselves on our service, taking whenever they’re not engaged in that, care of our customers.” they’re out building fences for every type The Sisters Fence & Deck crew is highly of application — commercial fencing, resi- skilled, they show up on time with the dential backyard fences, ranch fencing, right equipment and get the work done dog runs. Just about anything a client in a clean, efficient fashion that represents can come up with, Sisters Fence & Deck them and the company well.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

SALVAGE: Much tree mortality was on private timber lands

is cut. over the preceding three The law still applies. years and paired with a forThe main framework is the ward-looking certification. Oregon Forest Practices Act, Owners who qualify may carried out through adminis- gain access to alternative trative rules and administered streamside retention requireContinued from page 1 by the Oregon Department of ments, but the number is not paying a severance tax when Forestry (ODF). Fire damage a maximum. timber is harvested. The pro- does not exempt a landowner The number of 5,000 gram is generally intended from the rules on timber board feet — roughly one for owners of smaller forest harvest, road construction, truckload of logs — shows properties who manage their stream protection, or refor- up in Oregon’s timber-tax land for long-term timber estation. Water-quality pro- notification enforcement proproduction. tections, and local land-use visions. It is neither a miniThere are about 700 such requirements also remain in mum nor a maximum salvage properties, divided almost force. volume. equally between Deschutes In practice, a burned hillThe takeaway is that the and Jefferson counties cov- side above a creek is still a state does not limit how ering around 150,000 acres. hillside above a creek. Burned much you can salvage, but it No exact figures have been soils can be more vulnerable does expect you to follow the assessed as to timber loss to erosion, so the streamside rules, notify the state when following the Akawa Butte and road rules arguably mat- required, and report your harwildfire, which burned ter more after a fire, not less. vest for tax purposes. approximately 27,491 acres After years of timber lost Owners with land in the near Sisters, but it is widely from wildfire in the state, STF Program face a differbelieved to be heavy with Oregon has made it easier to ent question. The STF sevmuch of the loss on private salvage. The most significant erance tax applies to timber lands. recent change is a new set of harvested from enrolled land, For most of us it’s a bit of rules effective March 1, 2026, and is separate from the ordiminutiae but for Sisters land- adopted under 2022’s Senate nary Forest Products Harvest owners like Vernon Stubbs Bill 1501. Tax. Wildfire damage does and a number of his neighThere’s no cap on vol- not generally erase it. The tax bors, it’s critical. They are ume, but numbers still mat- is meant to recapture part of wading through the myriad ter. Oregon does not set a the property tax benefit the rules and regulations to make general ceiling on how much owner received while the land sure that they don’t make a fire-damaged timber a private was enrolled, and the trigger bad situation worse. owner may salvage. Several Stubbs is deeply commit- volume figures do appear in ted to stewardship of his land state law, though, and they north of Sisters. are easy to misread. The first “We put a lot of invest- is 25,000 board feet per year. ment into our properties – That amount is excluded planting, thinning, mitigation, when calculating the Forest restoration,” Stubbs said. Products Harvest Tax, which “It’s hard, labor-intensive makes it a tax exclusion work. The payoff is years rather than a harvest limit. out. There’s very little time to Even when no tax is owed, salvage it before it’s lost for- harvest returns may still be ever. So much is at stake and required. getting through the maze is A second figure, two miltough.” lion board feet per year, is an The caution is that a fire eligibility threshold for cerdoes not suspend the rules tain small forestland owner Areas anch lack BItuttise Raveraged B & n a m er that govern how teany timber protections. h S p m a C rs,

PHOTO COURTESY OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY

Much of the burned timber from the Akawa Butte Fire is on private land. is the harvest itself. That the trees burned does not change this. A practical reading says that, taken together, these rules suggest a simple sequence for landowners. Before cutting, it makes sense to contact an ODF stewardship forester to confirm notification and operational requirements, and to ask the county planning office whether local land-use rules apply to the parcel. Owners with land in Sisters Country enrolled in the STF Program should also talk with the county assessor or a tax professional before

harvesting, so the severance tax does not arrive as a surprise. Reforestation belongs in the plan from the start, not as an afterthought once the logging trucks leave. The overall picture is encouraging for owners who want to recover some value from a bad situation. The state is not standing in the way of salvage. It is asking that fire recovery be done with the same care for streams, soils, and future forests as any other harvest. With thanks to ODF, Oregon Department of R e v e n u e , a n d O re g o n Legislative Assembly.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Tracking your ballot By Shaanth Nanguneri Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregonians can keep track of their ballot’s whereabouts and know when election officials accept it for counting with a new statewide digital tool. Voters in Clackamas, Marion, Multnomah, Yamhill, and Washington counties have long had access to BallotTrax, a tool that provides text, email, or phone updates when ballots are mailed to voters, received at their county elections office, and accepted for counting. This election, the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office is expanding the program statewide with $150,000 in new state funding. To sign up for the service, Oregonians can go to O r e g o n Vo t e s . g o v / Tr a c k . They’ll need to provide their ZIP code, date of birth, and first and last name. “Every voter in Oregon, no matter where they live, deserves the same access to their ballot and the same confidence that their vote counts,” Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read said in a statement. “This tool gives voters a quick, easy, and secure way to track their ballot through the process and get alerted if there are any issues with their signature on their ballot. This is a great upgrade for voters and for Oregon’s gold standard vote-by-mail elections.” Read has also encouraged Oregonians to go to a drop box to turn in their ballots rather than relying upon the mail. That’s because of changes to Postal Service procedures that mean mail will be sent to a hub in Portland and postmarked, then sent to its destination. In recent elections, Oregon voters have been able to trust that a ballot dropped in a mailbox before mail carriers pick up mail on Election Day would be postmarked that day and therefore counted, but that’s no longer the case. Along with funding for BallotTrax, the Legislature approved more than $1 million to add 20 new drop boxes across the state, support county election offices, and pay for mailing notices to inactive voters who don’t receive ballots unless and until they update their addresses or other incorrect information. Election Day is Nov. 3, and ballots must be postmarked or returned to a ballot box or county elections office by 8 p.m. Voters mailing should return their ballots by Oct. 27 or go in person to their post office to ask for a manual postmark. Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, courtesy of https://oregoncapitalchronicle. com/.

LETTERS

Continued from page 2

districts. It’s an “us” vs. “them” philosophy that is hard to break. So if you want to protect Sisters, protect our right to vote for all five commissioners. Please vote “NO” on 9-185. Jim Barnett

Don’t leave rural Deschutes County voiceless; vote “Yes” on Measure 9–185. For a thorough understanding of Measure 9–185, login to www.deschutesforall.com. Rodney Cooper

Restrictions hurt property owners

Stronger county

To the Editor: I’m promoting a “Yes” vote on Measure 9–185, which would give each of five districts representation at the county level. Deschutes County is a large county with different needs, concerns, and perspectives in various regions. It makes sense to have commissioners living in the five separate districts bringing local concerns to the table where the commission can put their heads together to make the best decisions for the county. Regional representation is what our country was founded on. The American Revolution was based on lack of representation for the colonies. As a federal government began to form in America, the smaller colonies realized that representation by majority rule only would lead to larger populated areas dominating the vote and leaving them voiceless. Several Oregon counties to the east have demonstrated their desire to become part of Idaho because they don’t feel like they have a voice in Salem. A no vote on measure 9–185 would have everybody on the county voting for every commissioner position. I think that’s absurd. I will exaggerate to make my point. What if every voting citizen in the United States were allowed to vote for all the congressional districts throughout the United States and the candidates were not required to live in the congressional districts that they represent? I doubt the voters in California and New York would have any idea of what the people in Oregon congressional districts desire. Nor would they care, because they would cater to their voting base that elected them in the first place. The current at-large system where everyone in the county votes for every commissioner position will almost certainly eventually lead to the city of Bend electing all county commissioners, leaving a large geographic area of the county unrepresented and voiceless.

PUMPKIN SPICE & CLEAR PIPES...

To the Editor: I own a condominium in Pine Meadow Village in Sisters, and I am unable to rent it short-term under the City’s current restrictions. Pine Meadow Village is a master-planned community where vacation rentals were anticipated. The homeowners association permitted them, and the community includes properties that have operated as short-term rentals. Ordinance 540, effective October 25, 2024, expanded the separation requirement from 250 feet to 500 feet and extended it to condominium units. There are at least 48 condominium units across several Sisters developments that could be affected. At Fourth Sister Lodge, a 28-unit development, City records indicate that only one unit could qualify for a new permit under the revised rules. The exact citywide number of affected units has not been established. These restrictions may eliminate rental income, diminish marketability, and potentially reduce property values, harming owners who purchased in communities where vacation rentals were anticipated. Owners’ investments and reasonable expectations deserve serious consideration. Sisters depends on tourism. Visitors spend money in our restaurants, shops, galleries, and other local businesses. As a former small-business retail owner, I understand how important those customers are to our economy. This issue deserves intelligent, informed discussion — not a one-size-fits-all rule. The City should listen to affected owners, consider the economic consequences, and explore fair solutions that address neighborhood concerns without unnecessarily harming property owners and local businesses. We can protect neighborhood quality while respecting owners’ investments, and supporting Sisters’ tourism-based economy. Jill Neal

s See LETTERS on page 21

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

LETTERS

Continued from page 19

Sisters UGB

To the Editor: I’ll vote yes for the Sisters UGB expansion. Last year I voted to rezone 58 acres of forest zoned property on the northwest edge of Sisters so that the City could consider the property during its Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion process. Now, many are asking whether I will support the City’s proposed UGB expansion for 318 acres on the east side of the City. The proposed UGB expansion is the product of extensive community input, work by the Sisters UGB Steering Committee, and review by the City and County Planning Commissions. The City Council approved it on October 14 and I will vote to approve it on Thursday. The City has worked hard to assess how much land it needs for housing, commercial, industrial, and open space purposes in the next 20 years; how much of that will need to come from outside the current UGB; and which lands are most suitable. Among the lands that the City is legally allowed to consider for its UGB expansion right now, I think they have chosen well. If the City does not advance a City and County approved UGB proposal to the State by January 1, much of the analysis work to date will need to be redone. This would be a huge setback for a city that needs more housing now. After this UGB is adopted, the City should work to ensure that it grows well into those new lands. Sisters will need to grapple with expanding the Wildland Urban Interface into a hazardous area while protecting its citizens; protecting both people and habitat around the Whychus Creek floodplain; and getting sorely needed affordable housing built. Lands that weren’t eligible for inclusion in the UGB this year could be added through one-time legislative actions later if they become eligible. Phil Chang Phil Chang is a member of the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners. The commissioners will vote this week on whether to accept the City of Sisters’ proposed UGB expansion concept.

Deschutes County Judge

To the Editor: Most of us never imagine the day when one of our biggest problems lands us in a courtroom. But if that day comes, we will want the person behind the bench to be fair, consistent and thoughtful — someone willing to follow the law rather than be swayed by emotion. I have the privilege of knowing that kind of man personally. His name is Keith Leitz. Keith has experienced enough of life to learn lessons many of us would never ask to learn. He served his country and has since lived with injury and pain, yet I have never known him to use hardship as an excuse. He simply keeps showing up. I have watched that same steadfastness in the way he loves his family. Through loss, heartache, and challenges, Keith remains fiercely devoted. It’s simply who he is. Keith has also mentored my now-adult son, who followed in his footsteps of military service and is now an Air Force staff sergeant. As a mom, you don’t forget someone who invests in your child that way. For over a dozen years, I’ve had the privilege of knowing Keith beyond the résumé, the campaign, and the name on the ballot. I’ve watched him serve, endure, love his See LETTERS on page 25

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

UGB: Next step is county commissioner approval Continued from page 1

at Sisters City Hall at 4 p.m. The public is welcomed to send emails in support or against to kyle.collins@ deschutes.org no later than 4 p.m. the day before, or provide testimony during the public hearing. If the BOCC unanimously approves, then both Sisters UGB applications are sent to Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) for acknowledgement. If DLCD acknowledges the applications, that phase of Sisters UGB project ends and lands within the UGB become the Sisters Urban Area Reserve (UAR). The final phase of Sisters UGB project is “area planning” of the UAR which can take six to eight months to complete including public engagements. Once the area planning is completed, property owners of said lands which also adjoin Sisters’ municipal border may submit annexation applications. All UAR properties remain unchanged under County land codes and uses until annexed via property owner initiative. The need to expand the Sisters urban growth boundary was first identified during the 2018 City and community effort to create the Sisters Country Vision which forecasts population doubling, “2,691 in 2018 to 5,169 in 2043.” Then, as now, the City’s municipal boundary and UGB are equivalent. Oregon UGB laws, established about 50 years ago, include statutes, administrative regulations, and criteria for public hearings to ensure that growth is managed, the public included, and to preserve agriculture, forests,

natural resources, and open spaces. Before a UGB project can begin, a city must first assess its housing and business needs, update master plans, conduct various studies, modify development code to increase housing density or building heights, and ensure the public has several to be heard or read. The City’s planning and public works departments completed various code and master plan updates taking months of work with expert consultants, council reviews, etc. In the fall of 2023, Council approved initiation of a Sisters UGB project. The UGB project was officially started in May of 2024, is overseen by Sisters Community Planning department with extensive support from Moore, Iacofano, and Goltsman for UGB project management, and critical legal advice from Bateman Seidel. The project included eight months of work by 11 appointed pubic volunteers comprising the Sisters UGB steering committee. Council was involved and informed and public review and input events occurred resulting in a preferred alternative UGB map, Concept Aa. Resolution 2025-14 was approved by Council in a public hearing November 5, 2025. Both Sisters UGB steering committee and Sisters planning commission recommended to Council approval of Concept Aa. The resolution also directed staff to create two land-use applications to amend the City and County comprehensive plans with expanded UGB maps. The Sisters UGB expansion applications were ready for submittal by mid-2026 and the County planning commission ended their hearing to recommend approval of the Sisters UGB expansion application on September 10.

LAING: Activist has had big impact on senior life in Sisters Continued from page 1

solutions to challenges facing seniors as they seek to age in place in Sisters. In accepting the award, Laing said, “All of you are to be credited with this award as well... Sisters is known for coming up with solutions for difficult problems.” A founder of AgeFriendly Sisters Country and a longtime advocate for older adults, Laing is being recognized for leading a community-wide effort to help older residents remain safe, connected, and independent. Through the volunteer-driven Serving Our Seniors (SOS) initiative, she has united residents, nonprofit leaders, local experts, and community organizations around a shared goal: helping people stay in the place they call home as they age. What began as a grassroots effort to understand older adults’ needs grew into a community-wide initiative. Under Laing’s leadership, volunteers conducted surveys and listening sessions, consulted health and aging experts, and studied successful models across Oregon. The work culminated in a Senior Resource Fair and community forum that identified practical ways to support aging in place and improve quality of life.

SOS has formed volunteer-led teams focused on services, social connection, transportation, health care, caregiver support, and neighbor-to-neighbor assistance. Working with nonprofits, public agencies, businesses, and community leaders, the initiative is turning local input into coordinated action on rural challenges such as isolation, caregiving demands, home maintenance, and limited access to nearby services. “Chris Laing exemplifies the spirit and purpose of the Andrus Award,” said Bandana Shrestha, AARP Oregon state director. “She identified a critical need in her community and brought people together to create meaningful solutions. Her leadership, vision, and ability to inspire others have helped build a stronger support network for older adults in Central Oregon and demonstrated the tremendous impact volunteers can have when they work together to improve their communities.” Beyond SOS, Laing serves as a state-licensed long-term care ombudsman and advances age-friendly policies and practices. Colleagues describe her as an exceptional organizer, collaborator, and mentor who inspires others to serve. Her ability to engage volunteers across generations has strengthened civic involvement and community care in Sisters. Laing recounted discovering Sisters when her

long-time friend Kathy Deggendorfer invited her to visit for the Sisters Folk Festival. She thought, “Oh, I could live here.” The natural beauty of the place was, of course, an important draw. But Laing has particular values that Sisters seemed to exemplify. “Having a sense of community — that was important to me,” she said. Her approach to organizing volunteer efforts is to identify the issue that needs to be solved, identify the players who are involved or should be involved in taking an issue on, then deciding what to do. Several people attested to her effectiveness in rallying people to take on difficult challenges effectively. She said she finds her sense of community in such work. “I find my people in community-building activities,” she said. “I also think that volunteerism is part of being an American. I mean, barn raisings were of getting together to solve a problem.... So many people have said yes when they’ve been approached, because they know they’re needed. They know they’re valued.” AARP Oregon is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works to strengthen communities and improve quality of life for Oregonians age 50 and older and their families. For more information visit aarp.org/or.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

TRAINING: Firefighters take on ongoing training in many skills Continued from page 1

Training begins with District orientation and foundational skills, including radio communications, hose operations, ladders, search and rescue, fire dynamics, ventilation, and forcible entry. As the academy progresses, recruits participate in increasingly complex training scenarios, including engine company evolutions, live-fire exercises, incident command, target hazard familiarization, traffic incident management, passenger vehicle extrication, and water and rope rescue. EMS training is also a significant component of the academy, including ambulance driving, EMS equipment familiarization, advanced cardiac life support, pediatric advanced life support, advanced life support medications, and a comprehensive review of the District’s EMS protocols. By conducting the academy internally, the District can provide consistent, standardized training tailored to its equipment, operational procedures, and service area while building teamwork and strengthening relationships among its newest firefighters and existing personnel. The academy will conclude on November 24, 2026, with a final examination and a celebratory barbecue recognizing the recruits’ hard work and accomplishments. Another key commitment of the voter-approved levy was the addition of a full-time mechanic, a position filled on July 1. The District’s mechanic brings valuable familiarity with its apparatus and operations, having previously provided mechanical services to the District one day per week since December 15, 2023. Since transitioning to fulltime, the mechanic has hit the ground running, taking on several significant projects. These include preparing the District’s new ambulance and fire engine, both delivered this summer, for placement into service; completing annual fire apparatus pump testing; and developing a comprehensive preventative maintenance program for the District’s fleet. One of the primary goals of establishing a full-time mechanic position was to reduce vehicle downtime and minimize costly repairs performed by outside vendors. The District reports that it is already seeing positive results from this investment. As of October 15, the mechanic reports that the District has experienced no vehicle downtime since July.

PHOTO COURTESY SCSFD

Having a full-time mechanic allows the District to be more proactive with routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs, helping ensure emergency vehicles remain ready to respond when the community needs them. The voter-approved levy also provides full funding for the District’s dedicated Wildfire and Community Risk Specialist Steven Lord, effective July 1. Lord was originally hired through a grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, with his time divided equally between emergency operations and community risk reduction activities. As the grant period approached its end, the District recognized the ongoing need for a dedicated position focused on wildfire preparedness and community risk reduction and included funding for the position in the May 2026 levy proposal. Lord has been actively involved in several initiatives aimed at improving community safety and resilience. He has collaborated with the City of Sisters on the development of defensible space requirements for existing homes, providing input on potential implementation strategies and researching grant opportunities that could help property owners complete necessary improvements. Following the Akawa Butte Fire, Lord has also worked to identify resources and assist District residents impacted by the wildfire, including researching potential assistance programs and supporting property cleanup

and recovery efforts. In addition to his community risk reduction responsibilities, Lord continues to support the District’s operational readiness. He has assisted with portions of the District’s inaugural career firefighter training academy and is coordinating training for District personnel on a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) placed into service in late summer. Purchased through an Oregon State Parks grant, the ATV provides an additional resource that may be utilized for rescue operations in areas where access by traditional emergency vehicles is limited. The continuation of this dedicated position allows the District to build upon

PHOTO COURTESY SCSFD

work initiated through the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s grant while expanding its focus on proactive wildfire risk reduction, community partnerships, and emergency preparedness. “When our community supported the local option levy in May, we made a commitment to put those resources to work strengthening emergency services,” said Fire Chief Tony Prior. “We’re proud to be delivering on that promise. Whether it’s training our newest firefighter/paramedics, keeping our emergency vehicles ready to respond, or helping residents reduce wildfire risks around their homes, these investments are already making a meaningful

difference. We’re grateful to our community for the trust they’ve placed in us and remain committed to making the most of that investment.”

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! What matters most to you about fire and emergency services in our community? Scan the QR code to take the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District community survey and share your perspective.

SPECIAL EVENTS WEDNESDAYS AT 6:15 PM

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

BOOK FEST: Events run through next weekend

PINE NEEDLE: Burning is illegal in Sisters city limits

Continued from page 3

timeline to reveal a moment, a voice, a reckoning. Urza will talk about the work on Saturday, October 24, at 1 p.m. at Sisters Movie House. The author has deep roots in Nevada, where some of the stories take place. “I grew up there,” he said. “My family’s been there forever.” Urza told The Nugget that the collection of stories developed over time. “The stories were written over, really, a 15-year period,” he told The Nugget. As he collected them, he realized that they represented a continuum, and the concept of “An Incomplete History of the American West” was born. The second story in the collection, “The Findings of the Grand Jury of Lassen County: A Love Story (1872)” is a “found-document” story built on a fictional grand jury transcript regarding some uncanny and murderous doings in a frontier town. That work was informed by time spent as a public defender in Reno. “I understood Reno and I understood Nevada in a whole different way after doing that job,” he said. “The Findings” represents his take on how a collective group would come together to try to make sense of a strange incident. Urza said he grew up on classic Western stories, and his work is both a continuation of the themes found in those classics and an effort to understand the West “in a complicated way.” The author is a frequent visitor to Sisters Country, has read at Paulina Springs Books before, and is looking forward to his session at Sisters Festival of Books. Kathleen Boland, author of “Scavengers” will be in conversation with Nancy Foley (“I Am Agatha”) at 2:30 p.m. at Sisters Movie House on Saturday, October 24. “Scavengers” is described as “a rollicking debut novel about a cautious daughter and her eccentric, estranged mother venturing west in search of buried treasure— and a way back to each other—before they run out of patience, money, and options.” Boland, who grew up in New England and lived in New Orleans, migrated west and found her home in the wide landscape of mountain, river, and high desert. “I find that environment inspiring,” she said. “I also

length, flexibility and condition affect the result, and basketmakers usually prefer other pines with longer needles. Be warned that gathering, cleaning, and sorting needles takes a lot of labor compared with what the finished piece might sell for. Then there is the fragrant frontier of essential oils. Pine needles contain volatile compounds that can be extracted experimentally through steam distillation, with possible uses in fragrances, cleaning products, and research. Probably not very practical for the average Sisters homeowner. Yields vary with species, season, and condition, and a commercial effort would need testing, specialized equipment, quality control, and a reliable buyer. A pleasant pine scent also does not prove an extract is safe for skin or ingestion, cautions Washington State Native Plant Society. Now for the serious part. Dry ponderosa needles are highly combustible, especially when they build up in a continuous layer. Their

PHOTO PROVIDED

Kathleen Boland will present her debut novel “Scavengers” at the Sisters Festival of Books. find it weird, in an exciting way.” She longed for a certain kind of novel that would engage with that landscape and couldn’t find enough of them. So she wrote one. It took her eight years, with work, motherhood, and the many vagaries of life requiring navigation. “I had to figure out how to write a novel, not jut a pile of words,” she said. Boland is eager to engage with readers at Sisters Festival of Books. She noted that writing is largely a solitary process. “For so long you’re alone, wondering if anybody will read it and laugh at your jokes,” she said. She is looking forward to reader feedback — and she hopes readers get something from engaging with her.

“I hope it rounds out their reading experience in some way,” she said. You need not have read the authors’ books to enjoy their presentations, however. Many festivalgoers discover new favorites from their engagement with the authors at their events. As a registered nonprofit, Sisters Festival of Books directs funds raised through “Under Western Skies” toward literacy work throughout Central Oregon. Proceeds help bring visiting authors into local schools, provide grants to school libraries, support book access for students, and sustain other initiatives that connect young people with books, writers, and the pleasure of reading. Tickets and the complete festival schedule are available at www.sistersfob.org.

fine structure, large surface area for their weight and the air spaces between them let them heat up and ignite readily. The U.S. Forest Service classifies dry ponderosa needle litter as highly flammable. Needles are what fire scientists call onehour fuels, meaning their moisture content can shift substantially within hours as humidity and weather change. Once lit, they can carry a fast-moving surface fire into twigs, grasses, and shrubs. So where does that leave the average Sisters homeowner – beside with a sore back? Remove loose needles right next to buildings (the five-foot rule), and make clearing roofs, gutters, decks, and other vulnerable spots the priority. Whatever you do with the needles, do not burn them! While outdoor yard debris burning in Deschutes County officially opened on Thursday, October 1, remember: needles are highly combustible. Find another way to get rid of them. The City of Sisters does not allow yard debris burning at any time during the year within their jurisdictions and certain homeowners’ associations may have further restrictions in place.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

LETTERS

Continued from page 21

family, invest in others and remain grounded in his faith and love of country. I know the man. And I am proud to lend my voice in support of Keith Leitz for Deschutes County Judge. Sara Miller

Liveable future

To the Editor: I applaud the unanimous vote from the Sisters City Council to move the UGB forward, and hope the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners will follow suit on October 22. Through a robust, community-driven process, the City has developed a proposed expansion making room for housing, jobs, parks, and a school while protecting the farmland, forests, and wildlife habitat that define the area. This UGB creates an opportunity to deliver urgently needed housing today while accommodating Sisters’ steady growth over the next 20 years. What drew you to Sisters? For me it was the mountains, the ponderosas, and trails. It was the appeal of living in a small town and close-knit community surrounded by forests and farmlands. Pretty close to heaven. Oregon’s land use system preserves these qualities while welcoming new generations with vision, care, and the future in mind. It helps communities make room for our children, grandchildren, and new neighbors while protecting the landscapes, natural resources, and sense of place that make Oregon home. It connects the needs of today—from affordable housing to thriving local businesses—with the responsibility to leave healthy, livable communities for those who come after us. To make this successful, we need a diverse set of perspectives. Through public process and

thoughtful analysis, Oregonians are invited to help decide how their communities grow. When rapid growth presents challenges, the answer is to make our planning work better — not to bypass the process or set aside the long-term public values it protects. Sisters shows what this can look like. Planning for growth is about more than where to build. It is about what we choose to preserve, what we make possible for our neighbors, and what we leave to future generations. Oregon’s land use system gives us a way to hold those responsibilities together. Let’s keep it strong. Lisa Cohen, Interim Executive Director of Central Oregon Landwatch

Sisters School District

To the Editor: As we settle into another school year, there is much to celebrate across Sisters School District. At our October School Board meeting, we heard encouraging reports about student achievement, academic growth, and the dedicated staff who support our students every day. At Sisters Elementary School, teachers are implementing targeted small-group instruction in reading and math to help students strengthen foundational skills while providing enrichment opportunities. With regular progress monitoring and a focus on individual student needs, the school is working toward reducing the number of students performing below grade level. Sisters Middle School continues to demonstrate impressive academic achievement. On last year’s Smarter Balance state assessments, our eighth graders exceeded Oregon averages by 25 percentage points in English Language Arts, 26 points in math, and 30 points in science. These results reflect the hard work of our students and educators. At Sisters High School, we have more reasons to celebrate. Of the 100 students in the Class of

2026, 97 graduated on time! Our younger students are also making strong progress toward graduation, with all 106 sophomores earning the credits needed to remain on track. These accomplishments reflect the commitment of our students, families, and staff. We also recognize the extraordinary work of our district nursing team. Last year, nearly one-third of our students had documented health conditions, and our nurses provided essential care, developed individualized health plans, trained staff, and supported students with complex medical needs. Their work helps ensure students can safely participate, learn, and thrive in our schools. Beyond the classroom, we continue to care for our district’s facilities and natural spaces. Restoration and wildfire mitigation efforts are moving forward at Wild Haven and the Trout Creek Conservation Area, with opportunities for students to participate in environmental stewardship. Thank you to our teachers, staff, families, volunteers, and community partners for all you do to make Sisters School District a place where students can grow and succeed. To stay connected with what’s happening across Sisters School District, community members are encouraged to visit our district website at ssd6.org and subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Curt Scholl, Superintendent

Resource

To the Editor: I highly recommend that parents visit the OPB’s webpage to read the interview about how parents can talk with their children about the shooting in Bend. It offers excellent guidance on how to handle any tragedy and is valuable even if they don’t think their child is aware of the situation. Thank you. Edie Jones

ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS: TARGETING MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER...

Holiday Gift Cards Directory – 11-11 through 12-16 (deadline 11-6)

Thanksgiving Greetings – 11-18

Your opportunity to share your Thanksgiving message with Nugget readers and provide financial support to the Sisters Community Thanksgiving Dinner! (deadline 11-13)

Holidays in Sisters Country – 11-25 /12-2/12-9

In collaboration with “Sisters Hometown Holidays” this three-week special section is expanded in 2026 to include map and more holiday events, plus holiday content and advertiser mini stories. (deadline 11-13)

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

STARS: Executive director has deep experience Continued from page 3

Nugget Poetry Corner

Volunteers adopted health protocols that kept the service growing through the pandemic. At the end of September 2026, STARS had completed 3,518 roundtrip rides and driven 154,119 miles. Today, volunteers contribute more than 8,000 hours annually to help neighbors access healthcare. Drivers, dispatchers, and other volunteers help neighbors reach care while supporting independence and providing access to important medical care. They provide connection to the community and proudly perpetuate a sense of belonging. They have always been and will always be the backbone of STARS. In announcing Deal’s hiring, the organization noted that, “STARS is not just a ride service here in Sisters, it is our ride service built by our community, for our community. The volunteers that created STARS are extraordinary community leaders who have received statewide recognition for the model organization and are frequently consulted for help and advice by other communities.” Co-founder and Operations Director Tom Gonsiewski has been with STARS since the beginning and believes Deal’s intergenerational outreach is important to making STARS sustainable for the long run. STARS Board of Directors led by Christy Corzine is confident Deal will bring a new era of professionalism and success to a worthy cause. Deal brings experience in organizational leadership, strategic planning, financial oversight, and community partnerships. He is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and previously served as deputy district ranger for the U.S.

Forest Service’s Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, helping lead a 160-person workforce in a district that works with more than 100 community partners and volunteer groups. His career also includes strategy and operations consulting at Deloitte and co-founding two ventures: Common Ground Advisers, a veteran affairs consultancy, and Human Layer Collaborative, a startup focused on strengthening the human capacity inside organizations. His connection to Sisters Country is personal as well as professional. Since moving to Central Oregon in 2021, Deal has served on the board of the Sisters Community Leadership Initiative and volunteered on the ground with forest cleanups. He has also helped build homes with Sisters Habitat for Humanity. With aging parents of his own, Deal sees a unique opportunity to keep serving locally by helping older neighbors reach the care they need to remain connected and independent. “STARS connects two things I care about deeply: service and the Central Oregon community my family has chosen as home. I’m looking forward to working

with a team that has driven and guided STARS’ growth over the past seven years, and I’m honored to join them in continuing it,” said Deal. The organization stated that, “STARS feels fortunate to welcome Deal, whose approach emphasizes listening, supporting volunteers, and building practical systems that help organizations thrive. Working with the board and volunteer team, he will strengthen community partnerships, support fundraising, and guide long-term planning. He is eager to get to know community leaders and learn how STARS can work alongside them to help neighbors reach essential care. “Volunteers and community support remain at the heart of STARS. This new chapter adds dedicated leadership to sustain the service they have built together.” STARS provides free nonemergency medical transportation for Sisters Country residents who are unable to drive themselves. Volunteer drivers use their own vehicles to help neighbors reach appointments in Sisters, Bend, and Redmond. To learn about rides, volunteering, or supporting STARS, visit www.starsride.org.

Open house to address wildfire insurance impacts Wildfires have affected communities across Oregon with increasing frequency, leaving many homeowners facing not only property damage, but also challenges in securing or keeping homeowners insurance. Nonrenewals and limited market options have become real and growing concerns for Oregonians living in high-risk areas. To support consumers navigating these difficulties, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is hosting a series of open houses in wildfire-impacted regions throughout the state. These events are designed to help homeowners understand their insurance options, learn how to shop for coverage, and receive one-on-one guidance from DFR. Each open house will provide resources on how to find homeowners insurance, what to do if you’ve been

nonrenewed, and how to work effectively with insurance agents and companies. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions specific to their situation. The open house for Sisters Country is set for November 19, 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Sisters Public Library Community Room, 110 N. Cedar St. DFR encourages all homeowners in wildfireprone areas — whether they have questions, concerns, or have already experienced a nonrenewal — to attend an event near them. For more information, visit DFR’s wildfire resources webpage. If you have questions or need help, please contact one of our consumer advocates at 888877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs. oregon.gov. A complaint can be filed online at dfr.oregon. gov.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

The Nugget Newspaper Crossword

Obituary David Allen “Dave” Prock December 13, 1951 – October 13, 2026

David Allen “Dave” Prock, 74, passed away on October 13, 2026. B o r n i n Ya k i m a , Washington, Dave was adopted at birth by Jean and Inez Prock. Raised as an only child in the Seattle area, he graduated from high school in Lacey, Washington, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Washington State University. Dave enjoyed an accomplished career as a civil engineer and project manager. His experience included work at a Texaco refinery in California and with the cities of Salem and Lake Oswego, Oregon. Throughout his career, he played significant roles in numerous projects, contributing from conception through completion in engineering, construction, and operations. While his professional accomplishments were considerable, his character was even greater. Dave was known for his patience, kindness, warm smile, and positive outlook. He treated others with genuine respect and brought encouragement to those around him. Earlier in life, Dave was married to Linnea, and together they welcomed two children, Kelli and Matt. In 2007 Dave married Sandy, welcoming her daughter, Michelle Olds, into his life as his stepdaughter. Dave and Sandy shared 19 and a half years of love, companionship, faith, and adventure. Together they enjoyed traveling with their camp trailer and exploring the mountains and coast. Their rescue dog, Schel, held a particularly special place in Dave’s heart. Dave enjoyed amateur radio and was a member of HiDARG (High Desert Amateur Radio Group). Through the club, he volunteered at numerous events, providing communications in support of emergency preparedness and potential emergency situations. Dave was a devoted member of Sisters Community Church, where his strong Christian faith was reflected in his friendships and kindness to others.

Before moving to Sisters, he participated in an AGROS church mission project in El Salvador, supporting a community built around achieving property and home ownership. He and Sandy also helped ensure that young people in their congregation had opportunities to attend church outings. Dave’s faith remained steadfast throughout his illness, and he held firmly to the promise of eternal life and the hope of joining his Savior, Jesus Christ. During his final three and a half years, Dave faced cancer treatments and tremendous physical challenges with patience, courage, and quiet strength. Sandy remained by his side, offering love, compassion, and support. Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy Prock; his daughter, Kelli Palotay (Joshua), of Stafford, Virginia; his son, Matt Cao (Brian), of Dallas, Texas; his stepdaughter, Michelle Olds, of Bend, Oregon; and five grandchildren through Kelli and Joshua: Luke, Joseph, Grace, Nicholas, and Henry. Arrangements are being handled by NiswongerReynolds Funeral Home. Dave will be laid to rest at Terrebonne Pioneer Cemetery at 2 p.m. on October 23, with a Celebration of Life to be held at Sisters Community Church at 3 p.m. on October 24. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Dave’s honor to CORE (Community Outreach, Resources, and Emergency Shelter) in Sisters, Oregon, or STARS (Sisters Transportation and Ride Share).

Obituaries Policy: The Nugget Newspaper does not charge a fee to publish obituaries. Obituaries may be up to 400 words and include one photo. Obituary submissions must be received by 10 a.m. on Monday to editor@nuggetnews.com or hand delivered to 442 E. Main Ave., Sisters.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. CLASSIFIED RATES COST: $3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate. DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 5 PM preceding Wednesday publication. PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. Major credit cards accepted with a 3% processing fee. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four weeks. CATEGORIES: 101 Real Estate 102 Commercial Rentals 103 Residential Rentals 104 Vacation Rentals 106 Real Estate Wanted 107 Rentals Wanted 200 Business Opportunities 201 For Sale 202 Firewood 203 Recreation Equipment 204 Arts & Antiques 205 Garage & Estate Sales 206 Lost & Found 207 The Holidays 301 Vehicles 302 Recreational Vehicles 401 Horses 402 Livestock 403 Pets 500 Services 501 Computer Services 502 Carpet Upholstery Cleaning 503 Appliance Repair & Refinish 504 Handyman 505 Auto Repair 600 Tree Service & Forestry 601 Construction 602 Plumbing & Electric 603 Excavations & Trucking 604 Heating & Cooling 605 Painting 606 Landscaping & Yard Maint. 607 Irrigation 701 Domestic Services 702 Sewing 703 Child Care 704 Events & Event Services 801 Classes & Training 802 Help Wanted 803 Work Wanted 901 Wanted 902 Personals 999 Public Notice

C L A S S I F I E D S

102 Commercial Rentals

DRY SPLIT CORDS $250

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502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

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103 Residential Rentals

CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792 Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com

Cowboy Court Apartments 2 bedroom 2 bath. $1,650/month, RSD $1,650. 1 year lease. Some pets considered with add'l $350 RSD per pet. Includes W/S/ Garbage/landscaping. Approx. 1,000 sq. ft. NO SMOKING. 154 W Adams Ave. #106 1st floor unit in front building. Vacant 9/30/26. Dishwasher, microwave, washer & dryer, deck, garbage disposal, granite countertops, energyefficient windows, storage, plank flooring throughout, electric heat w/air conditioning, off-street parking - one reserved space (covered space $20/Month). Contact: 541-754-1213.

PET SITTING & PET CARE BLACK BUTTE - SISTERS Licensed, Bonded, Insured CALL ANDY 458-281-6234 I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Julie 541-306-7551 Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875

500 Services

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601 Construction

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Do You Provide a Service? Advertise in The Nugget!

Custom Homes • Additions 4 Brothers Tree Service Residential Building Projects Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! Serving Sisters area since 1976 – TREE REMOVAL & Strictly Quality CLEANUP – CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 Native / Non-Native Tree 541-280-9764 Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk John Pierce Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency jpierce@bendbroadband.com Storm Damage Cleanup, Earthwood Timber Craning & Stump Grinding, • Recycled fir and pine beams Debris Removal. • Mantels and accent timbers – FOREST MANAGEMENT – • Sawmill/woodshop services Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects! Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003 Home Hardening Services / ** Free Estimates ** Assessments / Ember Defense Owner James Hatley & Sons Retrofits / Vulcan Vent Certified 541-815-2342 / Gain Defensible Space 4brostrees.com CCB# 218954 Licensed, Bonded and Insured www.cascadiadesignbuildllc.com CCB-215057 Call Adam 541-974-2282

• Commercial & Light Industrial • Wildfire Fuels reduction • Custom homes • Debris Chipping/Mastication 200 Business • Residential Remodels • Forest Health Thinning Opportunities • Tenant Improvements • Wildfire Cleanup & Restoration WHY CHOOSE US? SMALL LANDSCAPING & • Tree Removal • No job too big or small CUSTOM WINDOW SNOW REMOVAL Will Moore, 541-409-5404 • Driven by quality, skill & COVERINGS BUSINESS FOR SALE ISA Certified Arborist craftsmanship Bend Window Works, LLC 8 clients (Sisters, Eagle Crest, We are the experts you’ve • Friendly, neighborly is offering a 10% discount on Bend). Must have own equipment been looking for! professionalism new window coverings. FREE and minor irrigation experience. LCB# 100129 & Oregon • Reliable, dedicated & trustful Asking $35K, Contact: BTLLC in-home consultation. Same day Professional Logger 71395048 • Licensed, Bonded, Insured in-home repair services available. at 541-588-0109 (leave msg). TimberStandImprovement.net Contact us today! New and repaired blinds make Tree Removal & Pruning 202 Firewood Curt: 541-480-7494 rentals look better! Contact us at TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 Brandon: 541-647-0586 541-383-2455 or 16 ft. firewood log loads, 541-771-4825 kallbergconstruction.com andy@bendblinds.com. Lodgepole. Guaranteed cords. Call for quote • 541-306-8675 Junk Removal, Dumpster Rentals & Demolition Services – Done Right. Remove-Junk.com 541-719-8475

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

C L A S S I F I E D S 603 Excavation & Trucking Full Service Excavation

STEVE'S HAULING Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370

All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740

Uncompromising quality. Local and personal. You can trust me. All projects: From new construction to those little projects you don't seem to get to. My team of local subcontractors and I will get it done right, fair, and pain-free so you can make your spouse happy. Call Jared 503-949-9719

LOCAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES & HOME MAINT. Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail Remodels • Landscaping .com Firewise Maintenance 541-549-1472 • CCB #76888 Decks & Much More! Complete landscape construction, Drainfield Pease Co. Contracting fencing, irrigation installation & • Minor & Major Septic Repair Call Tanner at 541-588-0136. design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, • All Septic Needs/Design Big and small jobs! debris cleanups, fertility & water & Install CCB# 256258 conservation management, General Excavation excavation. • Site Preparation CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 • Rock & Stump Removal Landscape & Construction LLC www.vohslandscaping.com • Pond & Driveway Construction LCB#8874 CCB#224224 541-515-8462 Preparation Serving Oregon since 1991 • Building Demolition 503-849-6090 Residential Construction Services Trucking Creating beautiful outdoor living Licensed since 2015 • Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, spaces • custom patios & decks CCB# 208020 541-668-0883 Boulders, Water Arne Pierce- call, text, or email • water & fire features • barns • Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, • outdoor kitchens • pavilions arnepierce@gmail.com Belly Eastern Cascade Solutions everythingoutdoors@ymail.com Quality is never an accident. • The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Landscaping & Construction Rooted in family, Built with pride Whatever You Want! www.easterncascadesolutions. 602 Plumbing & Electric com • 541-233-7195 LCB #9958 • CCB #222039

Lara’s Construction LLC. CCB#223701 Offering masonry work, fireplaces, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build barbecues, and all types of masonry. Give us a call for a free estimate 541-350-3218 SPURGE COCHRAN BUILDER, INC. General Contractor Building Distinctive, Handcrafted Custom Homes, Additions, Remodels, Cabin Renovations Since ’74 A “Hands-On” Builder Keeping Your Project on Time & On Budget • CCB #96016 To speak to Spurge personally, call 541-815-0523.

Construction & Renovation Custom Residential Projects All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448

• Foundations: All sizes & types • Slabs & Flatwork: SOG's, Driveways, patios & walkways • Custom Finishes: Tailored to Your style and vision. Contact us today! Brandon: 541-647-0586 Jeff: 541-419-7199 kallbergconstruction.com

Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED CRAFTSMAN BUILT CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com

Sisters Owned and Operated Serving all of Central Oregon • Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Service Hot tubs/Saunas • Generators Car Chargers • Panel Upgrades Light upgrades 541-588-3088 • CCB #234821

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Remodels • Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas monteselectric@hotmail.com CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860 SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC. “Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling • New Construction • Water Heaters 541-549-4349 Residential and Commercial Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587

Advertise with The Nugget! Classifieds & Display ads Online & Social Media Regional magazines 541-549-9941

Top Shelf Service. Straightforward Pricing. • Lighting Design • EV Chargers • Expert Troubleshooting Serving Central OR since 2008 Travis Wirth 541-647-9246

— GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE 541-419-3148

A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com

Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls Residential & Commercial CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977 www.BANR.net

– All You Need Maintenance – Pine needle removal, hauling, snow removal, moss removal, lawn care, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122

604 Heating & Cooling

ACTION AIR Heating & Cooling, LLC Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com CCB #195556 541-549-6464

Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service Residential & Commercial Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair 541-588-5667 SistersHeatingAir.com

605 Painting

~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com

Interior/Exterior Painting Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327 peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491

606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance

Alpine Landscape Maintenance An All-Electric Landscape Company. Text/Call Paul 541.485.2837 alpine.landscapes@icloud.com

Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345

J&E Landscaping Maintenance LLC Clean-ups, irrigation, aerating, raking, mowing, thatching, hauling debris. Edgar Cortez 541-610-8982 jandelspcing15@gmail.com

701 Domestic Services

I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051

BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897

802 Help Wanted

THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER

NOW HIRING Housekeeping Team Members Join the crew at our cozy campstyle retreat nestled in the forest! We're looking for friendly, dependable individuals to join our team at Lake Creek Lodge. $22/hr.+ flexible schedule, FT/PT k.stoffer@lakecreeklodge.com www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW FS Rd. 1419, Camp Sherman

THE GARDEN ANGEL LANDSCAPING is filling crew lead and crew member positions. We want YOU to join us for an awesome season this year! thegardenangel@gmail.com 541 549 2882

999 Public Notice Premium Title Agency, Inc. DBA PTS Foreclosure Services 114 Mesa Park Drive Suite 100 El Paso, TX 79912 TS No.: 2026-00023-OR-REV ACCOUNT NO. 138248 AND MAP NO. 201105AC01900 TRUSTEE'S NOTICE OF SALE T.S. Number: 2026-00023-OR-REV Reference is made to that certain trust deed made by WILLIAM W DAY was grantor, UNISOURCE NATIONAL LENDER SERVICES was trustee, and PEOPLES BANK, AS LENDER MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., MERS is a separate corporation that is acting solely as a nominee for Lender and Lender`s successors and assigns was beneficiary under that certain deed of trust dated, 03/12/2015, recorded on 03/18/2015 in File No. 2015-009237, Book---, page--- of the records of Deschutes county, State of Oregon covering the following described real property situated in the above-mentioned county and state: ACCOUNT NO. 138248 AND MAP NO. 201105AC01900 LOT 6 IN BLOCK 6, FOREST PARK II, DESCHUTES COUNTY, OREGON. 57073 FOX LANE, SUNRIVER, OR 97707, Deschutes COUNTY Both the beneficiary Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity but solely in its capacity as owner trustee for Cascade Funding Mortgage Trust AB2 and the trustee Premium Title Agency, Inc. DBA PTS Foreclosure Services have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said trust deed and a Notice of Default has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). The default for which the foreclosure is made is the grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sums: TOTAL REQUIRED TO REINSTATE AS OF 06/23/2026: $5,646.50 TOTAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF AS OF 06/23/2026: $ 396,854.61 Because of interest, late charges, and other charges that may vary from day-to-day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. It will be necessary for you to contact the Trustee before the time you tender reinstatement or the payoff amount so that you may be advised of the exact amount you will be required to pay.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by said trust deed immediately due and payable, said default being the following: Failure to pay the advance of $ 5,646.50 for property taxes and/or insurance or other property charges pursuant to that formal demand dated 12/15/2025. The foregoing constitutes an uncured event of default of your obligations under the Deed of Trust pursuant to Section 10(c)(iii) of the Deed of Trust, thereby entitling the Beneficiary to accelerate the debt, which it has done, pursuant to Section 21 of the Deed of Trust. As a result, you are also in default for attorneys’ fees and other expenses and costs of collection; and other amounts collectable under the Note and Deed of Trust; and trustees and foreclosure fees and expenses. Therefore, notice hereby is given that Premium Title Agency, Inc. DBA PTS Foreclosure Services the undersigned trustee will on 12/04/2026 at the hour of 10:00 AM, Standard of Time, INSIDE THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF THE DESCHUTES COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 1100 NW BOND STREET, BEND, OR 97703 as established by ORS187.110, in the County of Deschutes, State of Oregon, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by grantor of the said trust deed, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said trust deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right, at any time prior to five (5) days before the date last set for sale, to have this foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the trust deed reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred) and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or trust deed, and in addition to paying the sums or tendering the performance necessary to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and trust deed, together with trustee’s and attorney fees not exceeding the amounts provided by ORS 86.778.In construing this notice the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes the plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to this

C L A S S I F I E D S

grantor as well as any other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the trust deed, and the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Pursuant to Oregon Law, this sale will not be deemed final until the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale has been issued by the Trustee. If any irregularities are discovered within 10 days of the date of this sale, the Trustee will rescind the sale, return the buyer’s money and take further action as necessary. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Trustor, the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holder’s rights against the real property only. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit reporting agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligation. Please be advised that the trustee may require entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to provide information, documentation and/or certification of the vesting instructions and the data required to be reported pursuant to FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of residential real property to covered transferees on or after March 1, 2026. The required information must be provided to the trustee before a trustee’s deed upon sale will be issued for covered transfers. Additional information regarding these regulations and the required transferee information and certifications can be found at https://www.federalregister.gov/d ocuments/2024/08/29/2024-1919 8/anti-money-laundering-regulati ons-for-residential-real-estate-tra nsfers and https://www.fincen.gov/rre-faqs# d_5 Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representation or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential properties sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential properties should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the

Trustee’s sale. NOTICE TO TENANTS: TENANTS OF THE SUBJECT REAL PROPERTY HAVE CERTAIN PROTECTIONS AFFORDED TO THEM UNDER ORS 86.782 AND POSSIBLY UNDER FEDERAL LAW. ATTACHED TO THIS NOTICE OF SALE, AND INCORPORATED HEREIN, IS A NOTICE TO TENANTS OF THE SUBJECT REAL PROPERTY AND WHICH SETS FORTH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS THAT MUST BE COMPLIED WITH BY ANY TENANT IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE AFFORDED PROTECTION, AS REQUIRED UNDER ORS 86.771. Premium Title Agency, Inc. DBA PTS Foreclosure Services Dated: Premium Title Agency, Inc. DBA PTS Foreclosure Services 114 Mesa Park Drive Suite 100 El Paso, TX 79912 Trustee Phone number: (866) 960-8299 Dated: STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF EL PASO On ______________ before me, _________________ Personally appeared_____________who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument. WITNESS my hand and official seal. ___________________________ Notary Name (Seal) FOR TRUSTEES SALE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL (866) 960-8299 NOTICE TO RESIDENTIAL TENANTS The property in which you are living is in foreclosure. A foreclosure sale is scheduled for 12/04/2026. The date of this sale may be postponed. Unless the lender that is foreclosing on this property is paid before the sale date, the foreclosure will go through and someone new will own this property. After the sale, the new owner is required to provide you with contact information and notice that the sale took place. The following information applies to you only if you are a bona fide tenant occupying and renting this property as a residential dwelling under legitimate rental agreement. The information does not apply to you in you own this property of if you are not a bona fide residential tenant. If the foreclosure sale goes through, the new owner will have the right to require you to move out. Before the new

owner can require you to move, the new owner must provide you with written notice that specifies the date by which you must move out. If you do not leave before the move-out date, the new owner can have the sheriff remove you from the property after a court hearing. You will receive notice of the court hearing. PROTECTION FROM EVICTION IF YOU ARE A BONA FIDE TENANT OCCUPYING AND RENTING THIS PROPERTY AS A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO CONTINUE LIVING IN THE PROPERTY AFTER THE FORECLOSURE SALE FOR: 60 DAYS FROM THE DATE YOU ARE GIVEN A WRITTEN TERMINATION NOTICE, IF YOU HAVE A FIXED TERM LEASE: OR AT LEAST 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE YOU ARE GIVEN A WRITTEN TERMINATION NOTICE, IF YOU HAVE A MONTH-TO-MONTH OR WEEK-TO-WEEK RENTAL AGREEMENT. If the new owner wants to move in and use this property as a primary residence, the new owner can give you written notice and require you to move out after 30 days, even though you have fixed term lease with more than 30 days left. You must be provided with at least 30 days written notice after the foreclosure sale before you can be required to move. A bona fide tenant is a residential tenant who is not the borrower (property owner) or a child, spouse or parent of the borrower, and whose rental agreement: Is the result of an arm’s-length transaction; Requires the payment of rent that is not substantially less than fair market rent for the property, unless the rent is reduced or subsidized due to a federal, state or local subsidy; and Was entered into prior to the date of the foreclosure sale. ABOUT YOUR TENANCY BETWEEN NOW AND THE FORECLOSURE SALE: RENT - YOU SHOULD CONTINUE TO PAY RENT TO YOUR LANDLORD UNTIL THE PROPERTY IS SOLD OR UNTIL A COURT TELLS YOU OTHERWISE. IF YOU DO NOT PAY RENT, YOU CAN BE EVICTED. BE SURE TO KEEP PROOF OF ANY PAYMENTS YOU MAKE. SECURITY DEPOSIT You may apply your security deposit and any rent you paid in advance against the current rent you owe your landlord as provided in ORS 90.367. To do this, you must notify your landlord in writing that you want to subtract the amount of your security deposit or

prepaid rent from your rent payment. You may do this only for the rent you owe your current landlord. If you do this, you must do so before the foreclosure sale. The business or individual who buys this property at the foreclosure sale is not responsible to you for any deposit or prepaid rent you paid to your landlord. ABOUT YOUR TENANCY AFTER THE FORECLOSURE SALE The new owner that buys this property at the foreclosure sale may be willing to allow you to stay as a tenant instead of requiring you to move out after 30 or 60 days. After the sale, you should receive a written notice informing you that sale took place and giving you the new owner’s name and contact information. You should contact the new owner if you would like to stay. If the new owner accepts rent from you, signs a new residential rental agreement with you or does not notify you in writing within 30 days after the date of the foreclosure sale that you must move out, the new owner becomes your new landlord and must maintain the property. Otherwise: You do not owe rent; The new owner is not your landlord and is not responsible for maintaining the property on your behalf; and You must move out by the date the new owner specifies in a notice to you. The new owner may offer to pay your moving expenses and any other costs or amounts you and the new owner agree on in exchange for your agreement to leave the premises in less than 30 or 60 days. You should speak to a lawyer to fully understand your rights before making any decisions regarding your tenancy. IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO TRY TO FORCE YOU TO LEAVE YOUR DWELLING UNIT WITHOUT FIRST GIVING YOU WRITTEN NOTICE AND GOING TO COURT TO EVICT YOU. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR RIGHTS, YOU SHOULD CONSULT A LAWYER. If you believe you need legal assistance, contact the Oregon State Bar and ask for the lawyer referral service. Contact information for the Oregon State Bar is included with this notice. If you do not have enough money to pay a lawyer and are otherwise eligible, you may be able to receive legal assistance for free. Information about whom to contact for free legal assistance is included with this notice. Oregon State Bar: (503) 684-3763; (800) 452-7636. Legal assistance: http://oregonlawhelp.org/

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

C L A S S I F I CE DL SA SOutlaws S Ion Fthe run… I E D S

eed to sellNOTICE something inOF yourPETITION FOR Need to sell something in your age? Advertise in the Nugget! OF LANDS garage? Advertise in the Nugget! INCLUSION THREE SISTERS IRRIGATION DISTRICT Notice is given that Bijayandra Joshi has filed with the Board of Directors of Three Sisters Irrigation District a petition requesting that the following described lands be included within the boundaries of the District: Township 14 South, Range 11 East, Willamette Meridian, Section 28, Tax Lot 501, Deschutes County, Oregon, comprising approximately 80 acres. All interested persons may appear at the office of the Disitrct, 68000 Hwy 20, Bend, Oregon 97703, at 10:00 a.m. on November 10, 2026, and show cause why the petition should not 541-549-9941 541-549-9941 be granted. Nugget@nuggetnews.com Nugget@nuggetnews.com

EveryBody’s

HEALTH Tracy Erfling ND Columnist

If you know someone affected by Dementia/ Alzheimers, Parkinsons, ALS, MS (to name a few), you are not alone. Sadly, these diseases are on the rise and we are only scratching the surface of why, when, and how we are at risk of developing, diagnosing, and preventing them. Consequently, research into neurodegeneration is escalating as these conditions continue to increase. Our brains deeply define who we are, how we present ourselves to those around us, as well as the basic human connection of relating to others what lies within. Sleep wake cycles via hormone and neurotransmitter reception and stimulation, memory recall, emotional well-being, and the basic integration of seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching are just a few key examples of the multitude of brain functions we rely upon every moment of every day. Deep breath... our brains are up to the task...let’s look at ways to support brain power! Our big beautiful brains are housed in thick skulls beneath layers of connective tissue, fed with miles of blood vessels and bathed in lots and lots of fat. Fats, in fact, are the preferred fuel of the brain. Sorry, not fish n chips/deep fried fats, but good quality fats from nuts, seeds, olives, coconut,

fish, and many other nutritious plants. These fats keep things moving, allowing for the free flow of messages between cells as well as nutrient transport and waste disposal. While there is some research showing that high fat diets like Keto can benefit brain disease, other studies support the plant and fish based fats in mediterranean diets or plant only vegan diets...what I take from this is, what you eat matters and don’t skimp on good quality fats!! Rest also matters. Sleep is an essential human function...we do it every day for a reason. And it won’t surprise you to hear that our brains have a whole cleansing process that relies on sleep: the glymphatic system (think brain plumbing and detox). While we sleep, this system is activated, increasing the space within our brains, allowing for the drainage of unneeded/ unwanted stuff. While we don’t have all the answers for cause and effect, studies are identifying our increasingly toxic environment as a contributing factor in some, if not all, of the aforementioned brain diseases. Therefore, supporting the function of the glymphatic system is yet another element to better brain power. Sleep apnea is a very common condition that can affect the quality of our glymphatic function. If you have been diagnosed (or suspect you or your bedpartner is affected) with sleep apnea, this is your official reminder to research your options and/ or talk with your healthcare provider. Lastly, sleep position can prompt better glymphatic flow... specifically side sleeping is best and the right side ideal! Depression is also a very common condition that has an impact on the overall, long-term health

PHOTO BY GARY BREEDLOVE

Friday night’s game was a tough one against the Pleasant Hill Billies, with the Outlaws falling 51-7. of our brains. Brain scans show that those who have or have had a history of a major depressive disorder have notable shrinking in brain size. We all know how depression can dull our senses and affect; yet it also increases our risk of a degenerative brain disease. There are many ways to treat depression from counseling to substances, both pharmaceutical and natural. Asking for help is the first step and the resources are plentiful, both in person and virtually. Many well-known online counseling services now include the option for medication prescriptions too, which is potentially life saving for those who are self-isolating. There is always hope! Variety is the spice of life and challenging our brains to learn and do new things is worth the effort. Taking different routes to familiar places by foot, bike, or in the car, playing games, fixing new recipes, shopping at different grocery stores, learning new creative mediums, or really doing or learning anything new is great exercise for the brain. As is, of course, actual physical exercise! Having a supportive social circle and spending time with others enriches connections in our brain. Or in times when we’re appreciating solitude: practice meditating, praying, deep breathing, and foster relaxation. Any list for prevention of degenerative brain disease would list these as important lifestyle considerations to ensure our brains stay powerful as we age. Dr. Tracy Erfling is a naturopathic physician specializing in hormonal health and menopause care and the owner of Sisters Womens Health. You can find her at www.sisters womenshealth.com.

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:

On a recent Tuesday evening as I was loading up The Nugget for delivery, a woman came up on the porch and grabbed a handful of papers. She told me it is a weekly ritual for her to pick up papers for her neighbors, who all enjoy reading the paper “cover-to-cover.” She’s been doing this for years, and she said:

“I hope you keep going forever.” We hear from readers like that on a regular basis, and it’s the most gratifying aspect of our work. Our goal is to keep going forever — and to do that, support from our readers has become vital. It’s no secret that print media is in trouble across the nation. Costs continue to rise, and can’t simply be passed on to advertisers who are already stressed by their own higher costs of doing business. Readership declines as people’s habits change, and in many places, people don’t read at all, to a point where many think we’re entering a ‘post-literate’ society. That’s the bad news. The good news is that Sisters is still home to readers — and writers, too. We know that the community values their newspaper, because you tell us so — and many want to support their newspaper so that it does stay vital for years to come. And we continue to seek to find new ways to provide value for their support. There are now multiple ways that readers can directly support The Nugget that are easy and aren’t expensive but have a big impact: Supporting Contributions: Direct contributions to The Nugget are allocated to support our outstanding stable of freelance reporters, columnists, and photographers. You can make a supporting contribution online at www.nuggetnews.com (hit the “Donate” button); or you can mail a check to P.O. Box 698, Sisters OR 97759; or (best of all) stop by the office at 442 E. Main Ave. We love to talk with our readers. Subscribe to the “Nuggets From A Small Town” Substack: Substack is an online subscription platform for creators. “Nuggets From A Small Town” offers longer-form essays from Editor in Chief Jim Cornelius, for readers who like to engage with thoughtful writing on topics ranging from identity to the power of empathy, what we learn — or don’t — from history. This week’s essay looks at the importance of reading what it might mean to be a “post-literate society.” You can access “Nuggets From A Small Town” at https://jimcornelius609. substack.com. All subscriptions directly support The Nugget Newspaper. Online subscription: The content published on Substack and other subscriber-only content is available with an online subscription to nuggetnews.com. Click the subscribe button to sign up or call the office and we can assist you. Print subscriptions cover only the cost of delivery; the paper continues to be “free.” Directly paying for our content is the best way readers can help us continue to provide it. It’s also vital to shop local and support the businesses that advertise in The Nugget — and provide Sisters with so much of its character. Change is inevitable, and more rapid than ever — but, with your help, we can preserve good things that “make Sisters Sisters.” With your support, we can ensure that The Nugget is there for you each week to read “cover-to cover,” with more content for readers online. And maybe we will just go on forever. Thank you, Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief

The Nugget Newspaper Since 1978 | www.nuggetnews.com | 541-549-9941

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon