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The Nugget
News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon
Sisters comes to fiddle and dance
Some 200 Sisters folks ranging in age from infants to people in their 80s took to the hardwood at The Belfry on Friday, February 28, to dance to fiddle tunes provided by Scandalous Chutney. The band is a dance-ensemble sub-group of the Outlaw Strings Club, which included kids from Sisters Middle School and Sisters High School.
The “social dancing” event, co-sponsored by Citizens 4 Community (C4C) and SFF Presents (SFFP), hearkened back to community folk and square dances of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Dances included line, square, contra, and traditional folk dances, and included the Virginia Reel and the “broom dance.”
Kay Grady, an ardent fan of local music, described the event as, “The epitome of what makes Sisters Sisters. The intergenerational energy was contagious. I don’t remember the last time I shared so much fun and laughter with kids leading the charge. Thank you C4C, SFFP, and Scandalous Chutney!”
The Sisters Middle School science teacher
Melissa Stolasz is the Outlaw Strings Club leader/ instructor. She said that the Let’s Dance event was the culmination of a vision to form a dance band out of the club’s fiddlers.
Sisters gets good publicity, public safety
By Susan Cobb Correspondent
Sisters is getting good publicity — and the town remains a safe community.
That was the message received by Sisters City Council’ at their February 25 meeting, which included workshop general meetings and Urban Renewal Agency (URA) goal setting. All council members were present for the 4-1/2 hours of meetings.
Executive Director Scott Humpert of Explore Sisters (ES) presented progress in branding, marketing, advertising, and activities in the Visitors Center in the Sisters Makers building. ES is a Destination Management Organization (DMO) which focuses on bringing tourists to Sisters. The ES Board has
oversight of the DMO and has nine-members representing; local businesses, residents, a city staff and a councilor. Humpert, now entering a third year, said all of ES’s work is statistically showing successes.
Humpert noted that the bull named Party Bus, which jumped the fence during Sisters Rodeo 2024, generated positive free advertising nationally and internationally.
ES is funded annually from Sisters Transit Lodging Tax (TLT) at either $350,000 or 30 percent of TLTs, whichever is larger. The remainder of TLTs go to Sisters General fund. Councilors voiced appreciation of Humpert’s work and efficient use of the funds.
“It was four years of dreaming to this day,” she said. “It exceeded all of our expectations. We had so much fun.”
Stolasz’s husband Jeff noted that it was striking to realize that nobody was on their phone the entire night.
Millie Chapen, SHS freshman and an Outlaw Strings Club member who performed at the show, said, “I can’t emphasize enough how important it is for the community to show up
See DANCE on page 20
Sisters seniors face major change
By Sue Stafford Correspondent
The residents at Sisters Senior Living (formerly The Lodge) and their families received distressing news on Monday, February 24, in the form of a letter from SSL management.
The letter was to inform residents and their families that “the difficult decision” was made “to discontinue participation in the licensed Oregon Assisted Living program.” Sisters Senior Living (SSL) will surrender their assisted living license on April 24, exactly two months from release of the letter.
The letter continued, “As of April 24, 2025, we will no longer be providing assisted living services”
See SENIORS on page 19
New police chief promoted from ranks
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Black Butte Ranch has a new police chief — but he is a familiar face.
Chief Todd Rich joined the Black Butte Ranch Police in June of 2021, after a 21-year career at the Scituate, Rhode Island Police Department. While at Scituate Police Department he was involved with the department’s explorer program, honor guard, union executive board, citizens police academy, field training evaluation program, and instructed several topics at his own department, and at the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy.
Within the Scituate Police Department, a force with 17 officers, Rich held the ranks of Patrolman, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and finally, Deputy Chief before retiring and moving to Central Oregon with his family in 2020.
Retirement was short lived, and Rich was back at the work he loves serving as a patrolman with the
six full-time sworn officers’ force. He was named Chief
Todd Rich has been named Black Butte Ranch’s Police Chief after serving as acting chief for six months. PHOTO
Dancers of all ages were tapping on the hardwood floor at The Belfry to the tunes of Scandalous Chutney.
PHOTO BY KELLEN KLEIN
OPINION
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.
Hurting Sisters seniors
To the Editor:
My comments are based on a February 27 residents’ meeting at Sisters Senior Living (SSL). The gathering was in response to a letter to the residents from the ownership group via Artegan Management on February 24, which stated they are dropping assisted living certification/services, and those who don’t opt for continued independent living have 60 days to vacate.
The dining room was filled with residents, their family members, friends, veterans, and
other community members.
Obviously, this was exceptionally confusing and frightening for those who can’t afford to stay; a major undercurrent in the room was distrust — many felt that the decision to drop assisted living services was made months ago when the property was purchased out of bankruptcy; many challenged the short notice/abruptness of the timing. It was a tonedeaf ownership approach to the change, and the lack of empathy to the plight and “transition trauma” of residents being jettisoned.
Sisters Weather Forecast
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Spring or winter?
Imagine how it could be
By Martha Lussenhop Guest Columnist
How can it be that a developer such as McKenzie Meadows Village LLC can submit an application for an amendment that involves changing the zone of 58 acres of healthy trees and habitat from Forest Use 2?
Others have pointed out that the proposed area of urban housing is surrounded on three sides by forest and would be difficult for firefighters to defend from wildfire, compared to defending the existing neighborhoods. Building in a forest area is extremely dangerous given our current climate of extreme weather and fires.
Statewide goals for climate change mitigation includes limiting growth of wildland urban interface due to difficulty in protecting these communities from wildfire. Wildlife is already dealing with loss from wildfires, drought, and dense urban areas. Deer and elk are struggling to survive the loss of habitat. The property has historically been a safe birthing area for does/fawns in the spring.
cobblestones and gravel found in the soil samples are a result of the property having a floodplain. Ponderosas are thriving there with 100-year-old trees, but a flood plain is not suitable for urban development.
How can it be that the developer wants to build on a property that has a unique biological feature that could disappear by the impact of buildings? Trout Creek is a key habitat for Peck’s penstemon, a rare, ecologically sensitive plant that grows only in a small part of Central Oregon, including the subject property. Peck’s penstemon should be protected from extinction. The Trout Creek Conservation Area is used for biological research by students in the Sisters School District. I have mentored students as they do their ecological studies, involving identification and data collection. My late husband was a forest ecologist in the Chicago area and he would be amazed and delighted that students could have such an outdoor classroom.
Trout Creek Conservation Area is preserved through an agreement with the Deschutes Land Trust. Staff there are likely very concerned about increased development near TCCA and the pressure it puts on wildlife and forest habitat. Currently the people living nearby walk the land every day. Building more houses will cause increased use.
How can it be that an open forest of tall ponderosa pines, where many mammals and birds live and find food, be replaced by closely-built houses? Ecologists agree that changing the zoning would fragment the adjacent forest areas that deer and elk migrate through between summer and winter grounds. Expansion of the McKenzie Meadows Village would create more barriers and further stress on an already fragile situation. The subject property provides critical habitat for many birds, including White-headed woodpeckers (a listed sensitive species), flammulated owl (a rare species), pinyon jay, western and mountain bluebirds, three species of nuthatches, mountain chickadees, and northern flickers.
How can it be that a property be considered for development when it has a stream on it? Trout Creek runs directly through the property, and although ephemeral, it can flood annually. The stream sometimes floods areas downstream as far as Highway 20. Its channels should be protected.
How can it be that the applicant is requesting a change to zoning of a forest property so new homes can be built? Others have commented that it could build homes on lands already impacted by development northeast and east of Sisters where the city is looking to extend the Urban Growth Boundary, and new buildings would not infringe on undeveloped forest land.
The subject property should remain zoned Forest-2, not be changed to Urban Reserve/Multi-Use Agricultural.
Imagine how it could be to have land where Deschutes County, the City of Sisters and the Forest Service could collaborate to establish permanent open space with an ephemeral creek, a rare penstemon, wildlife habitat and trails where people can enjoy walking, too.
The City of Sisters requires that properties considered for development be free from natural features such as streams, wetlands, outcroppings and critical wildlife habitat. The rounded
Think about and explore more compatible and inspiring visions!
The weather turned mighty nice, but there’s still plenty of snow around to enjoy.
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
are presented
Sustainable agriculture inspires Sisters students
By T. Lee Brown Correspondent
Arts and adventure on tap at movie house
Continuing an annual tradition of spring special events, Sisters Movie House & Café will host a quartet of arts and adventure films every Wednesday night in March.
Following last week’s highly attended Women’s Adventure Film Tour 2025, the series continues Wednesday night, March 5, with a special showing of
“Becoming Led Zeppelin.” The program starts at 6:45 p.m. and tickets are priced at $17 for the one-nightonly event. That timing and admission price is consistent throughout the month.
“Once again, we are alternating arts films, including fine arts and popular music, with a wide range of
Big Ponderoo releases single-day tickets
SFF Presents has announced the full 2025 Big Ponderoo festival schedule alongside the release of single-day tickets. The third annual music and art festival returns to Sisters on Saturday and Sunday, June 28 and 29, with bluegrass, alt-country, and Americana music on two stages at Village Green Park.
the Ponderoo and Pinecone stages with music from noon to 8:00 p.m.
Weekend passes are available at advance pricing of $205/ticket for adults and $90/ticket for youth ages 17 and under (children five and under attend for free). Saturday-only tickets are $120/adult and $60/ ticket for youth ages 17 and under and Sunday-only tickets are $100/adult and $50/ ticket for youth ages 17 and under. Ticket prices include all taxes and fees. Tickets can be purchased online at www.aftontickets.com/ BigPonderoo.
At Sisters High School, students step out of their classrooms and into a unique environment for Sustainable Agriculture classes. In the high school’s own greenhouse, they immerse themselves in the hands-on experience of growing food, imbued with the fragrance of rich soil as sunlight coaxes their seeds into sprouting. The Sustainable Agriculture program is offered through a partnership with nonprofit Seed to Table. As folks around town have been discussing, SHS doesn’t currently offer a
BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS
Al -Anon
Mon., noon, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-610 -7383. Alcoholics A nonymou s
Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of t he Hills
See AGRICULTURE on page 12
The Saturday lineup includes artists ALO, John Craigie with The Coffis Brothers, Tophouse, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Lindsay Lou, Yarn, Cat Clyde, The Wilder Flower, Quattlebaum, and Skybound Blue with music from noon to 11 p.m.
On Sunday festival artists Shovels & Rope, Sierra Hull, Lindsay Lou, Fireside Collective, Clay Street Unit, The Wilder Flower, Quattlebaum, and Skybound Blue will take to
SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR
Council on Aging of Cent ral O rego n Senior Lunch In- person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Grab -and -go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs 12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters C ommunity Church. 5 41-4 8 0-18 43
Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,G entlemen’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., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration • Fr iday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-5 48 -0 440. Saturday, 8 a.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration
Central Oregon F ly Tye rs G uild
For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelef ly@msn.c om Central Oregon Trail A lliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@cotamtb.com for info. Ci tizens4Communit y C ommunity Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of ever y mont h, 10 to 11:30 a.m. V isit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for loc ation.
East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September- June), Stitchin’ Post . A ll are welcome. 5 41-5 49 -6 061. G o Fish Fishing G roup 3rd Monday 7 p.m., Siste rs C ommunity Church. 541-771-2211
Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Siste rs Communit y Church. M ater ials provided. 541- 408 -8 505.
Hero Q uilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 5 41-6 68 -1755
Living Well W it h D ementia Sisters
Care Par tner suppor t group. 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:3 0 p.m. T he Lodge in Sisters. 5 41-6 47-0 052.
Milita ry Parent s of Sisters M eetings are held quarter ly; please c all for details. 5 41-388 -9 013.
Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:3 0 a.m., Takoda’s Rest aurant. 541- 549- 64 69
Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158
Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:3 0 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church. 5 41-5 49 -6157.
Sisters Area Woodworke rs First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 5 41-231-18 97
Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters C ommunity Church. Email sister sbridge2021@gmail.com.
Sisters Caregi ver Sup por t G roup 3rd Wednesday., 10:30 a.m., Siste rs Episcopal Church. 503 -616 -8712.
Sisters Cribbage C lub M eets 11 a.m. ever y Wed. at S PR D. 5 09 -9 47-574 4.
Sisters Garden C lub For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com.
Sisters Habitat for Humanit y Board of D irectors 4th Tuesday, 4:3 0 p.m.
Location infor mation: 5 41-5 49 -1193.
Sisters Kiwani s 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:3 0 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Lodge in Sisters. 5 41-6 32-3663.
Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons. 917-219-8298
Sisters Red Hat s 1st Friday. For location infor mation, please c all: 541- 8 48 -1970.
Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon, Aspen Lakes. 5 41-760 -5 64 5.
Sisters Veterans no- host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant. All veterans welcome, 5 41-241-6 56 3.
Sisters Trails A lliance Board Meetings take plac e ever y other month, 5 p.m. In- person or zoom. Contact: info@sisterstrails.org
Three Sister s Irrigation Distric t Board of Direc tors M eets 1st Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSI D Of fice. 5 41-9 03 -405 0.
Three Sister s Lions Club 2nd Thursday, 6:3 0 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 5 41-419 -1279. VF W Po st 813 8 and A merican Legion Post 8 6 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:3 0 p.m., Pine Meadow V illage Clubhouse, 596 W Jef ferson Ave. 541-241- 6563
SCHOOLS
Black Bu tt e School Board of Direc tors 2nd Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., Black But te School. 541- 59 5- 6203
Follow @BigPonderoo on Instagram and Facebook for festival updates. The full schedule and lineup information, including links to artist websites and a Big Ponderoo playlist, can be found at www.BigPonderoo.com.
Sisters School District Board of Directors O ne Wednesday m onthly, Sisters School District Administr ation Building. See schedule online at www ssd6.org. 5 41-5
Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:3 0 p.m., Siste rs City Hall. 5 41-5 49 -6 022. Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Dire
PHOTO PROVIDED Students work together, growing food in Sisters High School’s greenhouse-based Sustainable Agriculture classes, which
by Seed to Table.
See MOVIES on page 11
Stars over Sisters
By Madi Varner & Althea Crabtree Columnists
The featured constellation for March is Puppis, a large grouping of stars that resides on the celestial sphere’s southern hemisphere. To be fair, however, only the northern portion of this region of the sky is visible from our latitude. But the treasures found here make the search worthwhile for many stargazers.
Puppis was originally part of a much larger constellation known as Argo Navis that was established by Greek astronomer Claudius Ptolemy in the second century. In Greek Mythology Argo Navis represented the ship sailed by Jason, Hercules, Castor, and Pollux on a quest to Colchis for the Golden Fleece.
Jason was the son of King Aeson of Iolcus, who was unseated from his throne by his treacherous half-brother, Pelias. As Jason grew, he became determined to regain the throne. In an attempt to rid himself of Jason, Pelias promised Jason his rightful inheritance if he brought back the Golden Fleece from Colchis, thinking he would probably perish in the attempt. But when Jason succeeded, Pelias reneged on his promise.
In 1752 French astronomer Nicholas Louis de Lacaille divided Argo Navis into three smaller constellations: Carina (the ship’s
keel), Vela (its sails), and Puppis (its stern).
To find Puppis, pick a clear, dark evening and find a location that has an unobstructed view of the southern horizon. First, locate Sirius in the constellation of Canis Major. This is easy because it’s the brightest star in our night sky. The western boundary of Puppis is about 10 degrees due east from here. With an apparent magnitude of 2.25, Zeta Puppis (Naos) is the constellation’s brightest star.
Puppis contains an impressive assortment of deep sky objects. While most of them are open star clusters (three of which are listed in Messier’s catalog of nebulae and star clusters), globular clusters, planetary nebulae, and galaxies are there too. A favorite target of amateur astronomers is M46, an open cluster that appears to contain a planetary nebula, visible in smallto-medium sized telescopes.
The beautiful barred spiral galaxy NGC 2566 pictured in this article was imaged by the Hubble Space Telescope. It lies at a distance of approximately 76 million light-years.
Spring in the Northern Hemisphere begins on Thursday March 20, at 2:01 a.m. PDT when the sun crosses the celestial equator on its journey northward. The spring equinox is one of two days of the year that have equal hours of day and
night nearly everywhere on Earth.
Look to the west at nightfall to find Mercury and Venus early in the month. By the end of the month, Venus disappears from the evening sky and emerges as a morning planet. Jupiter is still in Taurus, situated just above the “V” (the Hyades cluster). It will set by 1 a.m. as the month ends. Mars in Gemini is visible well into the early morning hours throughout March. Saturn is lost in the sun’s glare all month.
On March 13-14 we will be treated to a total lunar eclipse. At 10:10 p.m. on March 13, the darkest part of Earth’s shadow (the umbra) will begin to move across the moon. Totality will last from 11:26 p.m. to 12:31 a.m. March 14. During this time, the shadow will completely engulf the moon, turning it orange or red in color. The moon will completely exit the umbra by 1:48 a.m.
To ensure the extraordinary sea of stars and other celestial wonders will continue to be visible in our International DarkSky community, we ask that you help reduce light pollution by turning off all outdoor lights when not in use, and by 10 p.m. at the latest.
Be sure to go outside and be on the lookout for stunning wonders embedded in our stars over Sisters!
Outlaws wrestlers compete at State
By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent
A senior finished on a high note, and a freshman produced excitement for the future at the OSAA Wrestling State Championships last weekend.
Kisten Elbek placed fourth in the 155-pound class to cap a tremendous senior campaign, overcoming a quick first round loss to Delilah Jaramillo of Rogue River. Elbek stormed back with three victories in the ensuing matches to land in the third place final.
Her first win came against Peyton Buckley of Pleasant Hill with a pin at the 1:07 mark. She then faced off with Reegan Peterson of Toledo and produced a 16-0 technical fall victory. She continued her march toward a podium finish against Ksenia Zepeda of St. Paul/Gervais and worked her way to an 11-2 major decision to earn a spot in the third-place match. Coming into the tournament Zepeda had been undefeated in 33 matches.
Nicole Buxton of Scappoose, sporting a 28-12 record, gave Elbek all she could handle and, despite a valiant effort by Elbek, scored a fall at the 2:52 mark.
Elbek finished the season with an impressive 36-13 record and a fourth-place state medal.
“The match against Zepeda was so impressive,” said coach David Kemp. “To not only take down, but dominate a wrestler of her caliber was something to see. She plans to continue her wrestling career in college and Treasure Valley Community College, our first girl to go on to compete at that level.”
On the other end of the spectrum came freshman Tanner Gibney in the 100pound class. Like Elbek, Gibney dropped her opening match against Emma Halbleib of Lakeview (1:23). After a bye, Gibney picked up a pair of wins. First she beat Tigerlilly Whitebird of Oakland (2:17) and then Mayte Pacheco of Riverside/ Boardman (2:44).
In the consolation semifinal, Alexis Cruz of Cascade pinned Gibney in just 19 seconds, sending Gibney on to the fifth-place match, which she won over Nora Dame of St. Helens (1:12).
“Tanner impressed us all season long and earned her spot on the podium,” said Kemp.
Brooklyn Cooper and Sierra Jaschke both competed at the state tournament as well. Cooper went 1-2, while Jaschke went 0-2.
“What a treat to take these four girls to state,” said Kemp. “All four are
competitors and fine human beings. Seniors Elbek and Cooper have been instrumental to the success of our program.”
On the boys’ side, Tyson Kemp exhibited a “never say die” attitude on completing his season with a fifth-place finish at 150 pounds. Plagued by a knee injury most of the season, he never gave up on his goal of making it to state and placing, according to his dad and coach David Kemp.
“Tyson beat out some returning state placers on his way to fifth place,” said David Kemp.
Tyson opened with a win over Isaac Talmadge of Harrisburg on a 13-9 decision and then lost to Devin Huston of Willamina on a 19-3 technical fall decision. He went on to a major decision against Redden Lym of Lakeview (12-4) and then beat Ryder Sturgell of Warrenton in a narrow 9-7 decision.
Justin Hoyt battled Kemp in the consolation semis and prevailed with pin at 4:23
setting up the fifth-place match where Kemp once again faced Talmadge of Harrisburg who he pinned in 1:37 to complete a 27-10 season.
Carter Van Meter, a senior in the 126-pound class, got off to a good start with a win over Cameron King of Sutherlin (1:51), but came up on the short end of a 10-4 decision against Lyosha Mitchell of Creswell. In consolation round two Van Meter stayed alive with a 17-6 major decision over Henry Barnes of Burns, but his season came to a close against Kalob Dallas of Yamhill-Carlton who took him down at the 1:24 mark in consolation round three.
“Carter finished with 118 career wins over four years, which is a testament to his will to do what it takes to win,” said Kemp. “He has made his mark on our program for sure.
“It was a super fun weekend for me as a coach having these boys and girls together at state,” said Kemp.
Therapy program seeks zoning adjustment
By Susan Cobb Correspondent
Treehouse Therapies (TT) made a request to be located in Sisters during public comments at the Sisters City Council meeting of February 12. TT noted the Community Center at 520 E. Cascade Ave. would be an ideal location.
The property owner, Sisters School District, is interested to lease space to Treehouse Therapies. TT is a nonprofit currently providing a variety of pediatric and youth therapy services in Sisters and elsewhere in Central Oregon. The property of interest is zoned as Public Facility and Institutional District (PF/I) which includes “community center” as a permitted use but the use codes and definition of “community center” do not include therapy services. Council considered youth services a good fit for Sisters and directed staff to draft amendments to the Sisters Development Code to allow uses which TT provides.
On February 26, in a council workshop, Community Planning Director Scott Woodford summarized staff findings for council to discuss
options to amend the development code to allow the therapy use in PF/I districts. Council preferred use codes be added to PF/I for health and childcare services. Staff will draft the code amendment for a public hearing and later seek review and approval by Council.
Sisters Recycling Center (SRC) is under some scrutiny. Months before the February 26 workshop, staff worked on City Council’s goal 2024-25 to consider the future of the SRC as relates to the Plastic, Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) passed in 2021. RMA requires producers of packaging (any members of the Producers Responsibility Organization (PRO)) to pay fees which will fund recycling efforts in Oregon. The RMA plan includes a statewide list of recyclables, recycling entities, what to take to PRO depots, etc.
Staff previously met with Republic Services (RS), Deschutes County, Department of Environmental Quality and Circular Action Alliance representatives to assess the RMA’s impacts
See CITY COUNCIL on page 10
The Outlaws turned in strong performances at state championships to finish out an inspired season.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Outlaws fall in heartbreaker in second round of state playoffs
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws (No. 14) dismantled St. Mary’s (No. 23) 64-40 at home on Wednesday, February 26, in a first-round State Playoff game. With the win, the Outlaws advanced to the Sweet 16 to take on No. 3 ranked Valley Catholic on Saturday. The contest against the Valiants was a battle from start to finish that ended in a one-point loss for Sisters, 44-43.
In Wednesday’s action the Crusaders struck first, but a driving lay-up from Landen Scott quickly tied it up. Sisters went down 2-4, but then went on a 10-0 scoring spree and took control of the game early. Bodie Schar scored on a baseline out of bounds play, Kale Gardner went one-for-two at the line, and then followed with a coast-to-coast lay-up. Scott made a lay-up and Gardner finished the scoring with another coast-to-coast layup with a foul and converted at the line. At the close of period the Outlaws held a five point lead at 16-11.
Oliver Bernhardt made a shot under the basket early in the second to give the Outlaws a seven point advantage. With just over three minutes left in the quarter the Crusaders had closed the gap to three at 22-19. Gardner widened the lead again when he took a step back and knocked down a three. Sisters final points of the first half came off a baseline jumper from Bernhardt and teams entered the break with the Outlaws on top 29-25.
The Outlaws took complete control in the third, put up 15 points on the scoreboard and held the Crusaders to just five points. A 13-0 run highlighted the period and included a coast-tocoast layup from Gardner, and baseline three and short jumper from Scott, and a bucket from Bernhardt. Eight of the Outlaws 15 points came in transition with uncontested lay-ups at the rim. Coach Chad Rush told The Nugget that the transition points were due to the tenacious Outlaws’ defense, which held the Crusaders to just 18 percent shooting in the period. At the end of three the Outlaws had the game in hand at 44-29.
Sisters started the final period with a 9-0 run. Schar beat the defense down court a an easy lay-up, Gardner hit a pair at the line, Scott scored on a driving lay-up, and Gardner wrapped it up with a contested lay-up and converted free throw at the line which pushed the lead to 53-29.
With over four minutes
left in the quarter Sisters’ second unit took over, did a great job and cemented the win with a steal and lay-up from Bauer Ellis, a three-ball from the corner from Cooper Pronold, a back door lay-up from Kolbi Cotner, and a back-cut lay-up from Charlie Moen.
Scott led the Outlaws with 23 points, eight rebounds and three steals, and Gardner followed with 18 points and four assists. Bernhardt scored eight points and Schar tallied four points and 10 rebounds.
Rush said, “This was a great win for the Outlaws. One of our goals this season was to host a State Playoff game and for that opportunity to come true was a testament to the team’s hard work and commitment this season. We knew that the Crusaders had a big man that we had to worry about, but the team’s dedication to playing team defense and applying pressure all over the court limited the Crusaders’ opportunity to create any flow on offense.
“It was great to play in front of so many fans that came to the game,” added Rush. “We will need another great performance on Saturday when we go up against No. 3 ranked Valley Catholic on their home floor. This team has what it takes to walk in there and get a win, so I am excited to see what happens.”
Several seniors shared their thoughts on the win and their anticipated game against Valley Catholic on Saturday.
— Landen Scott
Schar said, “Our team has put in a lot of hard work and effort the past couple of weeks, especially after losing two of our starters. We stayed strong against St. Mary’s and it felt great coming away with the win.”
Bernhardt stated, “Knowing we’re one game away from going to Coos Bay just inspires our whole team to work as hard as we can on Saturday against Valley Catholic.”
Gardner added, “Valley Catholic is a really good team and it’s going to come down to us playing as a team and as one. And, there’s nobody I’d rather compete with than my teammates.”
Scott noted, “I’m proud of the team playing together against St. Mary’s. A win against Valley Catholic is going to take a team effort and a defensive battle.”
The Outlaws made the full team effort, but fell just short. The Outlaws made the trek to Valley Catholic, where the winner would advance to the big dance held in Coos Bay at Marshfield High School.
The Outlaws knew they’d have to win the war on the defensive side of the floor in the battle against the Valiants, and the game started with a defensive steal by the Outlaws that helped to set the tone early.
Scott scored on the next possession on a shot clock buzzer to give the Outlaws the early 2-0 lead. A couple possessions later, Will McDonnell connected on a three-pointer and Sisters went up 5-2. The Valiants went on a 6-0 run and the Outlaws went down 5-8. With 1:50 left in the period and the score even at 12-12 the Valiants went on a 5-0 run to put the Outlaws down 12-17 at the end of the quarter.
Sisters got the ball first in the second period and Bernhardt scored on a nice back door cut on an assist from Garrett Sager. Midway through the quarter the Outlaws went on a 6-0 run and took a one-point lead at 20-19. A couple of possessions later, Bernhardt hit a long ball to give the Outlaws a 23-21 lead with 2:05 left in the half. The Valiants came back and scored five
consecutive points that culminated in a three-pointer. Sisters trailed 23-26 as teams headed into the break.
The third period was a defensive battle from the start and neither team scored for the first two minutes. Sisters first points came when Gardner converted two technical free-throws. On the ensuring possession, Gardner drove to the basket, found Schar cutting along the baseline for a contested layup that cut the Valiant lead to one, 27-28.
With just under three minutes left in the third, Gardner made a shot to give the Outlaws a 31-30 advantage. The Valiants closed out the quarter on a 5-0 run for a four-point lead as teams headed into the final period.
Sisters quickly cut the Valiant lead with a 3-0 run to start the fourth quarter. The game went back-andforth and with 2:00 left in the game Scott made a lay-up off a Gardner assist to tie the game 41-41.
The clock clicked down and with 26 seconds left
See BASKETBALL on page 7
BASKETBALL:
Outlaws had a season to be proud of
Continued from page 6
the Outlaws trailed by three at 41-44. Gardner grabbed his own rebound and put it back to cut the lead to one, 43-44. Sisters called a time out to stop the clock and on the ensuing play the Valiants fumbled the ball back to the Outlaws with 13.3 seconds left. Sisters drew up an out of bounds play that gave Scott a look at the basket, but the Valiants prevented the score. However, Schar got the rebound and the Outlaws called a time out with 1.7 left in the game.
Rush told The Nugget that they drew up a misdirection play that would eventually send Scott to the basket with just his defender to beat. The team executed the play to perfection and Scott got a contested shot off at the buzzer.
Rush said, “There was controversy on whether the shot was goal-tended or not, but it was not called and we lost the game and the opportunity to go to the final site in Coos Bay.”
Scott put up 20 points in the contest, Gardner scored nine, Schar scored six, Bernhardt contributed five, and McDonnell chipped in with three.
Rush said, “This was such a great basketball game in so many ways. I am so proud of the boys for competing with heart and grit in this game. We knew we would have to make it a low scoring game to have a chance and the team did just that, keeping a team that normally scores 59 points to just 44, while holding them to three consecutive single-digit quarters. This defensive effort gave us a chance at the end and that
is what we wanted. While we didn’t achieve our goal of making it to Coos Bay, this team has nothing to hang their heads about. They competed with heart, grit, and determination and did what very few people thought they could do, have a chance to defeat the Valiants.
They [the seniors] helped create a culture of success, toughness, and family for us.
— Coach Chad Rush
“It was a sad ending to the high school careers of a great group of senior young men,” added Rush. “They came into the program during a time when the program was struggling. They helped create a culture of success, toughness, and family for us. Each year they played, they were a part of teams that made the postseason, twice making it to the Sweet 16 of the state playoffs. They have helped to set the standard of what Outlaw basketball is, and I am truly thankful for their hard work, trust, and commitment to our program. I know they will find continued success as they begin the next chapter of their lives.”
Outlaws name all-league selections
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws had several players named to all-league teams, including seniors Landen Scott, Kale Gardner, and Garrett Sager, as well as sophomores Will McDonnell and Kieren Labhart.
Scott and Gardner were both first-team all-league picks.
Scott averaged 13.7 points per game, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game for the Outlaws, and averaged 31 minutes on the court every game. This marked his second year in a row as a first-team all-league pick.
“Landen has worked very hard over the years, arriving early to practice and staying late to work on his game” said Coach Chad Rush. “I am very proud of Landen and his growth and leadership he has given this team this year.”
Gardner was a second team all-league pick for the past two seasons and this year earned first team all-league recognition. He averaged 12 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game for the Outlaws, and averaged 30 minutes per game.
“Receiving first team honors this year is a great testament to Kale’s work and
growth this past season,” said Rush. “His growth as a team leader and floor captain were instrumental in our team having the success it has had this season.”
McDonnell was a second team selection, and averaged 10.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.
“I am very happy for Will to have received this honor,” said Rush. “Will is an extremely hard worker, almost always staying after, coming early, or working on off days to improve his game. Will is one of the team’s top shooters and he had many games where that was on display. I look forward to seeing Will’s continued growth over the next several years.”
Labhart earned honorable mention, and averaged 7.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.
“This is a great honor for Kieren, who worked very hard this season to achieve this honor,” said Rush. “Kieren is an inside/outside threat that just started playing confident near the end of the season before getting injured. I am excited to see Kieren’s continued growth in the coming seasons.”
Sager was selected to the All Defensive Team for the second season.
Landen has worked very hard over the years, arriving early to practice and staying late to work on his game.
— Coach Chad Rush
“Garrett’s versatility on defense allows us to be able to do what we do when we switch all screens,” said Rush. “He is able to guard multiple positions on the floor, often in the same possession. We will miss his talk and leadership on this end of the floor next season.”
In addition to players being honored, Rush was named Coach of the Year.
Rush said, “I am very honored to have received this award. I am blessed to have a great staff that has been together for the past three seasons that has worked very hard this season to impact and mentor the players on the team. This award does not happen without my staff. I am also blessed to have a great group of players that work hard and have done what we have asked them to do. Without their trust and work, we are not where we are this season.”
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It’s a g
It is with great sadness that Sunny Dian Phillips, has passed away at home on January 30, 2025 after a brief and sudden illness. She was eighty-three years old.
Sunny was born on September 2, 1941 in Bend, Oregon. Her parents were Naomi and William Ray Smith. She grew up in Sisters, Oregon and was the oldest daughter of six siblings. She met Ron Phillips in Sisters, and they were married on July 9, 1960. They raised a daughter and son in Madras. Sunny worked as a secretary for 19 years at Deschutes Valley Water District. She also volunteered to help people in need and made many lifelong friends as a member of the Alpha Omicron Sorority.
Ron and Sunny liked to have fun with family and friends, and they were very involved in the Madras community and school system where Ron was a teacher, coach and counselor. They enjoyed many outings with family friends over the years. Christmas tree cutting, sporting and school events, snow skiing, river rafting, camping, family vacations, special trips around the United States, Hawaii and to Palm Springs.
Ron and Sunny later retired to Oregon City to be near their grandsons. Sunny enjoyed being with family and friends. Sunny was an enthusiastic sports fan, and she went to each grandsons’ sport games and concerts every season to cheer them on. Sunny was also a fantastic cook and baker. She really enjoyed entertaining friends and family at home on any day and on special occasions.
Sunny was a talented artist and poet. She drew and painted pictures and wrote poetry. She was skilled at creating holiday crafts and baking holiday treats! She was famous for her
Christmas butterhorn rolls, and everyone looked forward to being on her special delivery list…
She had a sharp memory and attention to detail. She remembered everyone’s birthdays and anniversaries without fail. She will be remembered as always having a crossword puzzle in hand or nearby. Sunny didn’t care much about material things. She cared deeply about her family and friends, and would always reach out to someone who needed help. Sunny had many special friends from Sisters, Madras and beyond that she kept in touch with all of her life. Most people who knew her said “Sunny was one of the nicest people they have ever known.”
Sunny is survived by her husband Ron, and their children Marcy (husband, Mike Sharpan); Matthew (wife, Michelle Phillips); grandsons; Ryan, Jacob and Brandon. Her two sisters Laurie (husband, John Wright), and Jan (husband, Gene Kroeker). Her brother Jeffrey (wife, Jennette Smith), and many more cherished nieces, nephews and cousins. Sunny was a beloved wife, supportive mother, devoted grandmother, special aunt and caring cousin. Sunny’s family and friends meant the world to her, and she loved them with all her heart… She will be most greatly missed…
There will be a small private celebration of life later this year.
Claude Barnes
July 7, 1941 – February 21, 2025
Claude Barnes of Sisters Oregon passed away February 21, 2025. Claude was born in Burbank, California July 7, 1941. Claude enjoyed hunting, bbqing, riding his Harley, and crossword puzzles.
He served in the Air Force dedicating 4 years of service. He worked for Los Angeles Times as a Pressroom supervisor for 25 years. Claude will be remembered by his friends and loved ones for his soft spoken voice and kind heart.
He is survived by wife of 26 years Joyce Barnes. Son Todd Barnes and two stepchildren Sheri (Chris) Pratt, Bill (Terri) Rice and three Grandsons. Sister Cherly, Brothers Wayne and Roy.
A celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In honor of Claude, a donation may be made to Samaritans Purse, Salvation Army or charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.
Terry Otis Burgess
July 25,1953 – February 20, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Terry Otis Burgess, of Sisters, who left us on February 20, 2025.
Born on July 25,1953, Terry was a beloved member of his community and a part of the Fair Board Committee for Deschutes County Fair and Expo. He is known for his kindness, gentle spirit, and unwavering support for his family and friends.
Terry dedicated his life to his work and was admired for his strong work ethic and commitment to the community.
He had a passion for hunting, fishing, being around his family and friends, volunteering his time to drive golf carts during the County Fair, and let’s not forget his love for the Oregon Ducks football team, and PBR.
Terry had worked at Les Schwab for 25 years, but then bought a little restaurant and became owner of what we all now know as SnoCap Drive-In in Sisters for 30 plus years, this brought him joy and fulfillment, and allowed him to become close to all of the locals in Sisters.
Terry found happiness in the simple pleasures of life, from spending time with loved ones, cooking amazing meals, engaging in thoughtful conversation, watching
the Duck games, and bull riding.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Merrilene; his mother, Carol Ford; his brother Tony (Sherril) Burgess; daughter Lacey (Scott) Weeks; four step-children, Leslie, Aaron, Stephanie, and Stacy; 11 grandkids; and four great-grandkids, who will all cherish his memory and carry on his legacy of love and compassion. Terry’s presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held at a later time, where friends and family are invited to celebrate Terry’s life and share their cherished memories. If you would like to attend, contact Leslie at 458-202-4974.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Terry’s name to any 4-H Club in Central Oregon.
Patricia Jane April
1943
Patricia Jane April (81) of Sisters, died peacefully on February 22, 2025, with her husband, Ray, and family by her side.
Pat was born in Denver, Colorado, in 1943, to Lula and Ralph Lough.
She was raised in Portland, where she met the love of her life, Ray, on a blind date. They were married on March 20, 1965. Their desire to be closer to nature, along with their joy of hiking, fishing, and hunting, led them to Sisters in 1977 to raise their family.
Together, they opened Papandrea’s Pizzeria and ran it until their retirement in 1999. Pat loved serving the locals and greeted everyone at the front counter with a smile.
After retirement, they traveled the world together. For many years, they drove their camper down to Mexico to enjoy the winters with friends in the sunshine. Pat was always up for an adventure. They wore out their passports exploring Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and Central and South America, and Pat especially enjoyed the three months they spent in India.
She is survived by
her husband, Ray, of Sisters; her brother Rod of Wisconsin; and her children: Bob Frack (Sandy) of Sisters; Rocco (Alice) April of Kalaheo, Kauai; Missy (Chris) Klug of Aspen, Colorado; and Hubbell (Terah) April of Lostine, Oregon. Pat cherished her nine grandchildren: Angelo and Sofia Frack, Mitchell Tanselli, and Jaden April, Bali and River Klug, and Cecilia, Tallulah, and Salvatore April.
Pat was Ray’s best friend and beloved partner for 60 years. She taught her children to be kind and to help and love others. She was a friend to all who knew her and a supporter of anyone in need.
Raise a cup of Pat’s favorite chai tea to toast this incredible woman.
A celebration of life will be held this spring in Sisters.
Kay Beverly Nelson
November 25, 1942 – February 21, 2025
Kay Beverly Nelson –mother, wife, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend of all – passed quietly in her sleep on February 21, 2025 at the age of 82.
Kay was born November 25, 1942 and always lived in Oregon, but in many cities.
She married Douglas Nelson in 1965 and raised two sons, Ty and CJ, in Salem. Her dedication and sacrifice to her sons showed when she traded her 60s Porsche two-seater for a Ford Pinto station wagon.
Sorry about that, mom!
Kay’s early days were spent in Portland, Dallas, and Lake Oswego before moving to Eugene.
She graduated from South Eugene High School and then the University of Oregon with a degree in education. She taught at
the old Keizer Elementary School (mostly the 5th grade) and was later the librarian at Pringle and Rosedale Elementary schools in Salem where she developed and ran student chess clubs.
Kay loved the city of Sisters, and after her retirement from the school system she opened a seasonal antique shop there called The Elder Sister. For nearly 20 years she split her summers between Salem and Sisters, enjoying her beloved Whychus Creek and a hearty breakfast at The Gallery Restaurant before running her shop.
Always a cowgirl at heart, her eyes would light up to host her nieces for a week or two in Sisters. In her later years, she gave her family a legendary tale to tell when she stole Doug’s truck to make one more trip to her beloved Sisters and show her outlaw side with a fiery sparkle in her eye.
Showing kids a life of alternatives was always important to her. It took many years for her sons Ty and CJ to learn that it wasn’t usual to grow up at auctions and flea markets, particularly the Salem Flea Market run by the Haleys at the fairgrounds every month.
Kay may have been a mildmannered schoolteacher by day, but her secret identity as antique dealer by night
will have her family sorting out “inventory” for years to come.
Kay was by her husband Doug’s side to create the Northwest Vintage Car and Motorcycle Museum, and pushed them to include a vintage culture and lifestyles section as well, just to make sure the men knew who really made things happen out there!
Our beloved Kay will be remembered for her brilliant mind and adventuresome spirit, powerful qualities that will be shown to those she sees next!
A celebration of her colorful life will be held at the Northwest Vintage Car and Motorcycle Museum later this spring. All friends, colleagues, and former students are welcome to attend. Check the Museum’s events page at www.nwcarandcycle.org to see when the date is set.
A NNOUNCEMENT S
Sisters Garden Club Meeting
Sisters Garden Club invites the public to their monthly meeting on Saturday, March 8. e presentation will be by Benji, owner of Mahonia Farms, who will speak about pests in the garden. e meeting is at Sisters Communit y Church , 130 0 W McKenzie Hwy. e meeting starts at 10 a .m., with doors opening at 9:30.
Sisters Rodeo Parade
Sisters Rodeo Parade applications are now open. Be part of a longtime tradition in Sisters . Limited entries and the deadline is May 15 . Visit www.sistersrodeo.com , click on Events/Par ade and proceed to fill out the application. Line-up will go out around first of June.
Free Lunches for Seniors
For those 60+, the Council on Aging of Central Oregon o ers
a f un, no-cost social lunch every Tuesday, 11 a .m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy. No reservations needed. No-cost Grab-N-Go lunche s take place weekly on Wed . and urs ., f rom 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367
Free Weekly Meal Service
Family Kitchen hosts weekly togo hot meals on Tuesdays , 4:30 to 6 p.m., at Sisters Community Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy Visit www.FamilyKitchen .org
Weekly Food Pantry
Changes
Wellhouse Food Pantr y has a new name: CORE Market . It is still located at 222 N . Trinity Way in Sisters . Market hours are now Mondays , f rom 1 to 2 p.m. Info: 541-588-2332.
STARS Seeks Volunteers to Transpor t Patients
Help Sisters Countr y residents get to nonemergency medical appointments in Sisters , Redmond, and Bend . Attend a f ree two-hour training. Emails f rom STARS dispatchers allow you to accept dates and times that work for your schedule, and a mileage reimbursement is included. Learn more at www starsride.org and volunteer to keep Sisters healthy one ride at a time.
SISTERS LIBRARY COMING EVENTS
Family Planetarium
Exploration
On Friday, March 7, f rom 1:45 to 3 p.m. explore the chaos of the cosmos in an inflatable planetarium! ere will be t wo viewings: 1:45 to 2:15 p.m. and 2:30 to 3 p.m. Space is available on a first-come-first-served basis . Held at Sisters Library Communit y Room. is program is recommended for children ages 6 and up, and all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Contact elsah@ deschuteslibrary.org , 541-31210 62 with questions
THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday, March 8
Sisters Garden Club Meeting
Sisters Community Church
Let’s Get Going!
Indivisible Sisters Civic engagement workshop. ursday, March 13, f rom 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., at the Communit y Hall, SistersCamp Sherman RFPD, 301 S . Elm St. Learn easy ways to be involved & informed . More information: 541-40 0-8312
Habitat rif t Store
Now Open
e new carpet is in and Habitat rif t Store is open for business!
Store hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Donations are accepted Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ank you for your patience during the closure
Monthly Songwriters’ Sharing Circle
Be in a creative community and be inspired while sharing songs , being a great listener, and providing feedback. Second Sunday of the month, 6 -8 p.m., in the Sisters Folk Festival “JA M Studio” upstairs in the Sisters Art Works building , 20 4 W. Adams Ave. Free. Info: 541-977-8494, jessaneene@msn.com
Living Well With Dementia Sisters Suppor t Groups
Living Well now o ers t wo support groups . A support group for the care partners and f amily of those diagnosed with some form of dementia meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month f rom 1 to 2:30 p.m . at Sisters Senior Living, 411 E . Carpenter Ln. A support group for the person diagnosed with some form of dementia in the early stages meets the same days and times , also at e Lodge. Info: 541-6 47-0 052.
Americ an Legion and VFW
VF W Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 meet the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at Pine Meadow Village Clubhouse, 596 W. Je erson Ave
Email SistersVeterans@gmail.com for information
Sisters Garden Journal
Sisters Garden Club has Garden Journals that are availabl e for $15 at Paulina Springs Book s & e Gallimauf r y here in Sisters e multiyear journal includes pages for notes on weather monthly garden activities , plant details , and more. Sale s support the Garden Club and other lo cal nonprofits . Get your copy now ey make great gif ts Plea se call 971-24 6-040 4 to ask questions and find more information
Sisters French Club
For people interested in French culture and language, Sisters French Club meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m . at e Barn, 171 E . Main Ave. All levels are welcome. For more information, visit Facebook @SistersFrenchClub.
Central Oregon Federated Republican Meeting
COFRW (Central Oregon Federated Republican Women) meet s the first ursday of every month f rom 10:45 a.m. (registration) to 1 p.m. at Aspen Lakes Golf Club in Sisters. Come learn f rom guest speakers , and hear and question local and state candidates. Meetings include lunch for $27. RSVP required to attend. Learn more about upcoming meetings and speakers, and RSVP at COFRWBend@gmail.com
STAR S Seeks
Dispatch Volunteers
While working from home, help STAR S transport Sisters Country resident s to nonemergenc y medical appointments . Needed: A computer, the abilit y to use online apps, and a telephone. Call 541-9 04-5545
Your Announcement Here Schools , churches , nonprofit, recreational, and community groups: this is your page to announce your free gatherings and event s! Regularly occur ring Sisters Countr y meetings are listed on the Sisters Area Meeting Calendar on page 3 and special event s or featured meeting s can be listed on this page. All submissions are subject to editing and run only as space allows . Email nug get@ nug getnews .com or drop o at 442 E . Main Ave. Please include a “ for more info” phone number. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays
PET OF
THE WEEK
Humane Societ y of Central Oregon 541-382-3537
CITY
COUNCIL: Future of recycling center back in discussion
Continued from page 5
on SRC. During this City Council workshop, RS General Manager Erica Haitsma and RS Municipal Manager Courtney Voss presented four separate options for council’s consideration:
• Add monthly curbside glass service, at four dollars per month to households (a total revenue to RS of just over $68,000 annually) and close SRC.
• Create a new SRC agreement (RS and Sisters) of just over $68,000 per year not including one time safety improvements.
• Create a new SRC agreement (RS and Sisters) and continue studying SRC for possibly being enhanced to a PRO depot (there are, currently, eight possible PRO depots in Deschutes County, one being the Northwest Transfer Station on Fryrear Road).
CHIC A
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S isters Ve ter inar y Clinic 541-549-6961
SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES
Baha’i Faith
For information, devotions, study groups , etc., contac t Shauna Rocha 541-6 47-9826 • www.bahai.org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteachings .org
Calvar y Church
484 W. Washington St. , Ste. C & D • 541-588-6288
10 a .m. Sunday Worship • www.ccsisters.org
Chapel in the Pines Camp Sherman • 541-815-9153
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
e Church of Jesus Christ of L at ter-Day Saint s
452 Trinit y Way • Branch President, 5 41-977-5559;
10 a .m. Sunday Sac rament Meeting
e Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration
121 N Brook s Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087
www.transfiguration-sisters.org
8:30 a .m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship
10 :15 a .m. Episcopal Sunday Worship
e Resting Place meeting at Sisters Communit y Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy www.restingplace.us • hello@restingplace.us 5 p.m. Sunday Worship
Seventh-Day Adventist Church
541-815-9848
11 a .m. S aturday Worship
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (ELCA) 386 N . Fir Street • 541-549-5831 www.shepherdof thehillsluther anchurch.com
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Church of the N az arene 67130 Har rington Loop Rd. • 541-389-8960 www.sistersnaz .org • info@sistersnaz .org
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Communit y Church (Nondenominational) 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy. • 541-549-1201 www.sisterschurch.com • info@sisterschurch.com
7:30 a .m. Daybreak Ser vice • 9:30 a .m. Sunday Worship
St . Edward the Mar tyr Roman Catholic Churc h 123 Trinit y Way • 541-549-9391
5:3 0 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass • 9 a .m. Sunday Mass
12 p.m. Monday Mass • 8 a .m. Tuesday-Friday Mass Wellhouse Churc h 442 Trinit y Way • 541-549-4184 ht tps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com
10 a .m. Sunday Worship
POLICY: Nonprofits, schools , churches , birth, engagement, wedding , and anniversar y 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 lisa@nug getnews .com or drop o at 4 42 E . Main Ave. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays
• Close SRC and redirect residents to the Transfer Station to recycle glass, oils, etc.
Council had many questions regarding fees for and frequency of a curbside glass service, the expense of a new SRC agreement, the net amount RS expends considering revenues from recycled cardboard, the capacity of SRC to be a PRO recycling depot, the expense to upgrade the SRC to meet new safety standards, adding video cameras and additional staffing. Council wondered about possibilities of reutilizing the SRC property asset and what population (Sisters or unincorporated areas outside Sisters) are the primary users of SRC. RS will return with answers for Council’s numerous questions.
The Urban Renewal Agency (URA) is a separate entity which provides a debt service, established in 2003 with a beginning budget of $10,000,000 which must be expended as of 2030. The URA is comprised of the Chair, Mayor Jennifer Letz and four members, the Councilors. The URA goals were reviewed for those completed or in progress and some were added by Council for consideration – depending on remaining budget. Currently, a $6.4 million budget remains of which $4.7 million is obligated to active projects, leaving about $1.7 million available. URA projects are focused on improving downtown and City Councilors are considering future projects; Adams Street improvements, pedestrian safety upgrades to downtown crosswalks, DarkSky street lighting retrofitting, and fire prevention building hardening.
Corcoran named Player of the Year
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
Sophomore Audrey Corcoran earned the honor of Player of the Year, and was an automatic first-team, allleague pick in basketball.
Coach Paul Patton told The Nugget that earning Player of the Year was quite an honor for a sophomore on the third-place team in a tough basketball conference.
Corcoran had an outstanding season for the Lady Outlaws, and was the leading scorer in the league with a 17.2 game average. She also averaged 3.6 assists and 4.3 steals per game.
“Audrey played point guard for us and was the driving force on the offensive end of the court,” said Patton. “She was also a pesky on-ball defender and an adept stealer of passes on the defensive end. Opposing coaches were often frustrated by their inability to slow her
MOVIE: Films move from Led Zeppelin to climbing
Continued from page 3
movies with an adventure theme to them,” said Drew Kaza, managing partner of quoin media & entertainment, which operates Sisters Movie House & Café. “In a way, it’s the best of both worlds with the passion of super talented and driven individuals in both disciplines of life.”
The weekly program will continue each Wednesday night through the month of March, with “Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025” coming to town on March 12. It will be followed by the latest fascinating art museum documentary from the UK — “Exhibition on Screen: Dawn of Impressionism, Paris
down regardless of which defense they deployed.”
Senior Shae Wyland was also a first team selection. Wyland averaged 11.5 rebounds, and three blocked shots per game. Wyland was also named to the league’s All Defensive team for the second year in a row.
“Shae was a standout in league play for her rebounding and her defense, especially her shot-blocking,” said Patton. “She plays hard, never complains, and leads with a positive attitude.”
Freshmen Maddie Durham and Verbena Brent both earned honorable mention.
Durham started every game for the Lady Outlaws and averaged 8.7 points and 6.6 rebounds per game.
“Maddie filled the role of our perimeter big and got the second most touches of the ball to our point guard,” said Patton. “Maddie has worked really hard on her own to
1874.” It debuts here on March 19.
“This is part of a worldwide premiere of that movie that starts in the UK on March 18,” pointed out Kaza. “All of these movies have been well attended as Sisters clearly loves its arts. It’s a good idea to reserve tickets sooner rather than later for this one.”
The month rounds out with another adventure title as the “Climbing Film Tour 2025” comes to the Movie House on Wednesday, March 26.
“We are grateful to our partners at Adventure Entertainment out of Australia, who produce all three of these great adventure anthologies,” said Kaza of the women’s, fly fishing and climbing events. “And we’ve been working closely with
improve her skills and has a high basketball IQ for such a young player.”
Brent averaged 10.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game for the Outlaws.
“Verbena is a top scoring threat for us and also one of our best defenders,” said Patton. “She loves basketball and has a bright future ahead of her on the court.”
This is part of a worldwide premiere of that movie that starts in the UK on March 18. — Drew Kaza
Seventh Arts out of London for many years now on the museum documentaries. There are less than 100 theaters in the entire US to screen these special movies — and we are proud to be one of them.”
Tickets for all of the events in the series are on sale now at the Sisters Movie House box office or online at www.sisters moviehouse.com. The series concludes in early April with another arts movie still to be confirmed.
SISTERS-AREA EVENTS & Enter tainment
WEDNESDAY • MARCH 5
Sisters Movie House & Café Spring ADVART: "Becoming Led Zeppelin" Part of the Adventure & Art series. 6:45 p.m Tickets $17 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, MARCH 6
Sisters Fire Hall Bluegrass Jam with Sisters Fire District staff and friends, 6 to 9:30 p.m. Come to listen or play along!
FRIDAY • MARCH 7
The Belfr y Live Music: Beth Wood shares an intimate evening of music and poetry reading in celebration of her new book of poetry "My Name Is Another Word." 7 p.m Tickets and information at: www.belfryevents.com. Pine Meadow Ranch Workshop: Fitted Nuno Felted Vest with Flóra Carlile-Kovács. Workshop runs March 7, 8, and 9, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost is $450 (supplies included). For more information or to register: RoundhouseFoundation.org/events. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • MARCH 8
Cedar Studio Open House Come meet Chloe Kohlie Mikee and Molly Learn about the offerings of this new studio and enter to win a complimentary service. 2 to 4 p.m. Located at 272 S. Cedar St., Sisters Info: 541-306-1322.
SUNDAY • MARCH 9
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Come to play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Open to all. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • MARCH 11
Sisters Saloon Bingo Night in Sisters 6 p.m. on the BINGO second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.
WEDNESDAY • MARCH 12
Paulina Springs Books Partners & Pages Community Book Club hosted by Partners in Care "The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot" by Marianne Cronin. 10 to 11 a.m. Free and open to all. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com/events.
Sisters Movie House & Café Spring ADVART: "Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025" Part of the Adventure & Art series. 6:45 p.m Tickets $17 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, MARCH 13
The Barn Dance Party: Lunar Eclipse Dance Party Full Moon After Hours Dance Party with DJ Mooch, 8 to 11 p.m. Tickets and info: www thebarninsisters.com/events.
The Belfr y Live Music: Broken Compass Bluegrass are a fresh force on the bluegrass scene recognized for their tight arrangements, tasteful musicianship, and distinguished songwriting skills. 7 p.m. Presented by 4Peaks Presents. Tickets and info: www.belfryevents.com.
FRIDAY • MARCH 14
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • MARCH 15
Sisters Run: Lucky Leprechaun 5K /10K Costume contest, bag pipes, finisher party at Luckey's Woodsman. Benefits Sisters Rotary/Family Access Network. Register at www.runsistersrun.com.
Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture
To Eat is an Agricultural Act: Starting your own Kitchen “Materia Medica” Bookmaking workshop and learn more about the medicinal benefits of local plants with Mallory Craig 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. $50 Registration and more info: roundhousefoundation.org/events. The Belfr y Live Music: Skillethead and Darin Gentr y's Old Time Machine will bring original, traditional, and modern bluegrass music. 7 p.m Tickets and info: www.belfryevents.com.
Sisters Depot Live Music: Open Mic
Music lovers can enjoy a variety of local talent in a lively atmosphere. 7 to 9 p.m. Info: sistersdepot.com/our-events.
SUNDAY • MARCH 16
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Come to play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Open to all. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SHS sophomore Audrey Corcoran earned Player of the Year.
PHOTO JIM CORNELIUS
full-fledged vocational agriculture Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Do the current Sustainable Agriculture classes provide a springboard toward Voc Ag?
“Oh yes, absolutely,” said educator Heidi Dixon. “They’re learning the basics of producing food. The scale might be different, but they get the basics down. This education opens doors for those kids who want to learn more at that next level.”
Field trips to Seed to Table farm give Sustainable Agriculture students an upclose experience of food production at a larger scale, with about 100,000 pounds of produce grown annually.
Hoop houses, large greenhouses, produce cleaning and storage facilities, farm equipment, irrigation systems and fields full of working farmers provide a window into Central Oregon agriculture. Charming Highland cattle and pretty flowers are a bonus.
Students learn from the differences between the farm’s production processes, its high yields, and the growing process at the school’s greenhouse.
“Spending time at the farm helps them see,” explained Dixon. “They realize,‘I’m growing carrots in my little garden plot in the greenhouse... when I go to Seed to Table there are rows and rows of carrots, and they’re watering and harvesting it in a different way.’”
Landen Scott is a senior at SHS, busy with college applications and basketball. Scott said his learning went beyond the immediate act of growing plants.
“Greenhouse and Seed to Table helped me understand the care, effort, and patience you need to be successful,” he said.
He described learning “what it takes to have healthy soil, how to stabilize your plants, how to water and pro vide nutrients for our plants, and we even learned about the fermentation process.”
Scott plans to study health sciences and sports medicine in college, where his new found understanding of the foods underlying our nutri tional needs may come in handy.
“Seed to Table showed me that food doesn’t just appear in the stores,” Scott said. “There are many differ ent processes in which food is harvested and grown.”
Seed to Table hires and pays the salaries of sustainable agriculture educators at the high school, and provides sup plies, consulting, and infra structure for the greenhouse
and related programming.
The innovative curriculum was created and developed by Seed to Table educators (see article, page 13)
The organization covers 75 percent of program costs through its fundraising and grant writing efforts, according to Seed to Table founder and Executive Director Audrey Tehan.
“Our contract with Sisters schools sees the district covering about a quarter of the total cost for our education program’s expenses within the district. We raise the rest, with support from the Sisters community,” she said.
In addition to high schoolers, Seed to Table offers education for kids of all ages. The
organization also runs Sisters Farmers Market and feeds local people, bringing the farm’s bounty to residents via produce shares, food pantries, and partnering organizations.
The produce share lets people select the veggies of their choice each week, on the farm or at Sisters Farmers Market. Pricing is offered on a sliding scale to suit a variety of income levels. Signups for 2025 produce shares are open at www.seedtotableoregon. org.
Annie Cohen, a graduate of SHS, experienced profound transformation in the Sustainable Agriculture program and on the farm itself.
“Seed to Table quite literally changed my life,” Cohen
said. “When you are surrounded by a group of people that collectively have the same goal, you learn how to work together to achieve that. You learn how your individual actions affect the outcomes.”
A summer internship on the farm helped Cohen connect with the real world.
“As a 17-year-old girl my phone was always in my hand. On the farm, I was never on my phone,” she said. “I was so in awe of the world around me. I’m smiling just thinking about it.”
Cohen decided that advocating for the environment would become her life’s work. Before, she’d planned to go to cosmetology school.
At Washington State
University, Cohen has been studying environmental science, writing, and education. She plans to become a high school teacher, perhaps teaching abroad and then coming home to Sisters.
“It’s a special thing to be out there, practicing sustainable agriculture. Because you’re hands-on, you’re able to grow a relationship with the plants. I loved how the dirt felt on my hands. I felt like I was connected to the earth. I felt like I was doing my part in making this world a better place.
“Seed to Table exemplifies what happens when a community comes together and gets things done,” Cohen concluded.
Hands-on curriculum enlivens greenhouse classes
By T. Lee Brown Correspondent
How do you engage students in the study of plants, farming, and food? At Sisters High School, hands-on learning is key.
Local nonprofit Seed to Table has provided funding, educators, supplies, and support for SHS Sustainable Agriculture education since 2013, when founder Audrey Tehan started the program in the school’s greenhouse, originally backed by the Science Club, school administrators and teachers.
Educator Kaci Rae Christopher is the author of “The School Garden Curriculum: A K–8 Guide to Discovering Science, Ecology, and Whole-Systems Thinking.” She evolved the Seed to Table program’s approach during the challenging years of the Covid pandemic. She was excited to adapt a curriculum previously developed by Seed to Table’s Tehan and Caroline Hager.
Lesson plans are built around projects in the greenhouse. For the Sharing Food, Sharing Stories assignment, students work with memories based on food.
“Then they bring a related recipe to share with the class, and grow the ingredients,” Christopher explained.
This school year, Heidi Dixon was hired to teach Sustainable Agriculture. For the meal project, students are partnering up, she said. “They share, working collaboratively, deciding whether to mesh their two meals or just choose one of them. It’s definitely teamwork.”
Students research which ingredients they can grow.
“We think about what our growing season is like and how much time we have, varieties and crop selection,” Dixon explained.
Getting from recipes to growing actual food is a complex process.
“First we test our soil for NPK and pH, and amend our soil based on that information,” Dixon said.
Adding organic matter helps students understand that “your soil is alive.” They learn to build soil that will be healthy into the future, beyond one crop.
Measuring and math skills come into play as students do their plot planning, laying out their footprint in the greenhouse and deciding what to plant where, using techniques such as companion planting.
One example of companion planting involves basil and tomatoes. Not only are they delicious together; they help each other grow. Basil’s strong scent can repel pests, while tomato leaves provide shade for the heat-sensitive basil.
Conventional, organic, and heirloom seeds are studied. Then students start their seeds, design and mix potting soil, water their sprouts, and learn to transplant. They
research healthy compost and natural pest control, like planting marigolds and calendula.
Weeks later, students harvest their produce, cook their recipes, then share food and stories.
“The kids make amazing stuff,” Christopher said.
Field trips to Seed to Table farm form an important part of the curriculum. For example, students designed a hedgerow of plants supporting the pollinators essential to agriculture, such as butterflies and bees. Farmers helped them plant and establish the pollinator hedgerow.
“We learn from the farmers,” Dixon said.
This fall, the high school students helped in the farm’s carrot harvest, bringing in thousands of pounds from the field, destined for winter storage.
The course is designed to culminate in a community event where students make presentations.
“They talked about
mishaps and successes,” said Dixon. “Overall it was a lot of gratitude, and surprising themselves with how much they ended up liking plants.”
Two students had signed up just to fill a needed credit.
“By the end of it they were wanting to lead the greenhouse club,” she said. “They were so excited to grow food!”
Whether it’s broccoli or cauliflower, lettuce or herbs, “taking their own produce home to cook with their families is a really powerful connection,” Dixon added.
Christopher has a background in special education.
“I started developing the curriculum with inclusivity in mind, then focused on project-based learning,” she said.
Socially as well as academically, her approach has served students well.
“The nurturing side of things is an element, in addition to the know-how,” she explained.
“Taking care of their
plants, collaborating, the social environment... sometimes it’s hard for kids in high school to show vulnerability and caring. In greenhouse class they support each other’s strengths. It’s especially valuable for our SPED kids.”
Former student Annie Cohen described the greenhouse as a safe space, with “a mixture of people that I’d never really talked to before, all different grade levels. It was nice to grow closer with some other students in my community. Everybody’s ideas were shared and talked about.”
Over the years, the greenhouse has been important to additional programs including Transitions and Garden Club. Students have grown food for local groups and school staff.
Teachers Samantha Pasley, Glen Herron, and Heidi Dixon have been integral to the success of Sustainable Agriculture at SHS, according to Tehan. Herron brought experience from his family’s ranch in Eastern Oregon.
Collaborative lessons have engaged high schoolers and kindergarteners together. Students have grown and sold plants at Sisters Farmers Market.
“It goes beyond the greenhouse,” Christopher concluded. “These are transferable skills they can use later in life.”
To learn more, see related article on page 3, or visit www.seedtotableoregon.org.
Educator, author, and curriculum builder Kaci Rae Christopher, right, helped Sisters High School greenhouse students grow and sell plants at Sisters Farmers Market.
Sisters citizens learn about emergency preparedness
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
A small but highly engaged audience gathered Sunday at the Sisters Library to take part in a one-hour presentation by Ed Weiser who considers himself a “professional volunteer,” and serves as a Wilderness EMT with Deschutes County Search And Rescue. He’s a small business mentor and leader with SCORE, an Interpretive Ranger with the Forest Service and a local Meetup hiking group leader.
He shared several interesting accounts of his work in search and rescue and his
own personal experiences of having to evacuate twice from his home.
While wildfire was the most anticipated portion of his offering, he covered a range of emergency possibilities in Sisters Country including earthquakes, flooding, volcanic eruptions, and even tsunamis, knowing how many residents of Central Oregon vacation or visit the Oregon coast.
The session’s design is to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, and unforeseen chaos. Much of the focus was learning how to create
effective emergency plans, assemble essential gear, establish reliable communication contingencies, and provide meaningful assistance to others in times of crisis.
City Councilor Cheryl Pellerin was in attendance. Preparedness is a topic of interest to her individually and in her elected role.
Weiser was peppered with questions which he deftly answered.
The lecture was part of the Deschutes Public Library system’s free monthly programs for the community. The March theme is Chaos for which Weiser’s
“Chaos” reigns at library in March
Stay on the edge of your seat with a live performance of Agatha Christie’s legendary murder mystery, The Mousetrap. Discover our state’s historic natural disasters with author William Sullivan and engage in activities that explore the impact of Rosie the Riveter. Families can explore the cosmos in an inflatable planetarium or attend a yoga workshop.
All of this is on tap at Deschutes Public Library in March as the community seeks to “Know Chaos.”
Some programs require registration.
• Family Planetarium Exploration: Join the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory for a tour of the solar system in their inflatable planetarium. Intended for children ages 6 and up; all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. First-come, first-served.
Friday, March 7, 1:45 and 2:30 p.m., Sisters Library.
Saturday, March 15, 2 and 2:45 p.m., Redmond Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave.
• Wilderness Kit: An Updated Approach to the 10 Essentials: Discover a contemporary take on the classic “10 Essentials” concept for outdoor preparedness. Learn tips for maximizing personal safety, responding effectively in survival situations, and providing assistance to others in need. Wednesday, March 12, 6 p.m., Downtown Bend Library.
• Chaos with the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon: Explore a chaotic collection of museum exhibits through hands-on, open-ended exploration and play. Intended for children ages 0–11; all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Friday, March 14, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Redmond Library.
• Calm the Chaos: Family Yoga Workshop: Connect with your child through songs, sign language, movement, and breath. Bring a yoga mat, blanket, or something soft to play on. Intended for children ages 0–5; all children must be accompanied by a
caregiver. Monday, March 17, 9:30 a.m. East Bend Library; Wednesday, March 19, 10:15 a.m. Downtown Bend Library
• Floods, Fires, and Volcanoes: Oregon’s Great Natural Disasters Oregon author William L. Sullivan presents an armchair lecture about the floods, earthquakes, forest fires, eruptions, and tsunamis that have hit Oregon during the past 13,000 years. Tuesday, March 18, 6:00 p.m., Downtown Bend Library; Wednesday, March 19, 1 p.m. Redmond Library.
• Rosie the Riveter: Empowered by Chaos: Celebrate National Rosie the Riveter Day as we engage in activities that explore the impact of WWII women. Have a little fun and come dressed as Rosie — wear your red and white polka dot bandana. Friday, March 21, 1 p.m., Redmond Library.
• Calm the Chaos: Adult Yoga: Calm the chaos of life through mindful movement. We will breathe, stretch and flow together, seeking
presentation was on point. Of interest was Weiser’s suggestion that while Sisters itself may not be the center of an emergency it could nonetheless be an assembly point for disaster refugees from the coast or the Willamette Valley, which could tax resources.
Weiser urged attendees who seemed knowledgeable about wildfire evacuation — Level 1, 2, 3 – Ready/Set/Go — to share their know how with neighbors.
A printable version can be downloaded at https://udrc.org/wpcontent/uploads/2018/08/ ReadySetGo.pdf.
to ease the mental chatter in our minds and sooth our bodies through movement. Registration required. Friday, March 21, 3 p.m., Redmond Library.
• Guided Forest Bath: Deeply connect to the natural world and feed your soul. Join a series of guided forest bathing invitations led by a local Certified Forest Therapy Guide at beautiful Shevlin Park. Registration required. Monday, March 24, 2 p.m., Shevlin Park. Registered participants will receive meet-up instructions.
• The Mousetrap Preview Night: After a local woman is murdered, the guests and staff at Monkswell Manor find themselves stranded during a snowstorm. Firstcome, first-served. Thursday, March 27, 7:30 p.m., doors open at 7 p.m. Cascades Theatrical Company, 148 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. For more information about these programs, visit the library website at www. deschuteslibrary.org.
Cleaning up a “hot spot”
By Susan Cobb Columnist
What a great way to end February 2025.
Twenty-seven of us — Sisters Community Leadership Initiative (SCLI) members including leaders Therese Kollerer and Danna McNeese, Sisters Forest District Ranger Ian Reid, other U.S. Forest Service (USFS) members, Councilor Michael Preedin, and other volunteers — met at the Forest Ranger parking lot before 10 a.m. to head out on a forest clean-up project.
We were served coffee and pastries donated by Sisters Coffee Co., signed a waiver, and got our marching orders from Jeremy Fields of the USFS. Cars and trucks caravaned a few miles west on Highway 20 and parked not far from exiting
the highway to the north. There was a bit of ice and mud but the sun was bright and we trekked about a tenth of a mile into the forest to the clean-up site. There we saw the huge donated blue 40-foot Republic Services garbage container ready to be filled.
The abandoned campsite had been the home for a few years of an unhoused person, who had constructed a safe place for herself that included some creative fencing, a raised bed area, and a rock garden. They left what they could not carry, which we then worked to clear. It can evoke sadness, realizing a person came to a time in life to be without resources and struggling to survive. On the other hand, working with and seeing the compassion of our foresters and volunteers is an uplifting camaraderie.
We were gloved and ready to work and within the hour had filled the container to the brim and had arranged larger items for later pickup. It was satisfying work removing what did not belong to the natural beauty of that little plot of National Forest land. Kollerer took pictures and volunteers headed
Lucky Leprechaun returns March 15
Local runners and walkers ready to dress up in green, dust off their shillelaghs, gather their four leaf clovers, and join in some shenanigans don’t have long to wait with the fourth annual Lucky Leprechaun 5k and 10k run and walk returning to the streets of Sisters Saturday, March 15, sponsored by Run Sisters Run.
A new feature of this year’s event is the start and finish taking place near Luckey’s Woodsman in downtown Sisters.
The Lucky Leprechaun has become a fixture of a kick-off to spring as a fun-filled happening for all the family. In
addition to the run/walk itself, participants can compete in a costume contest (individual and group/family), enjoy swag and refreshment upon completion, according to race director Kelly Bither.
Finishers will receive liquid refreshment (beer, seltzer, sparkling water), commemorative medal/beads, and live music to practice an Irish jig. Yard games will also be happening.
Rumor has it that bagpipes will also be featured in the festivities.
back to Sisters.
SCLI’s Year-End Report of 2024, notes, “... the foundation continues to be a solid group of volunteers who withstand all kinds of weather to be good stewards of land and community, ensuring both are sustained for future generations.”
SCLI members engage with
the unhoused community, conduct weekly garbage collection and “hot spot” cleanups, as described above. Last year, their accumulated volunteer hours when translated into dollars as in-kind donations was $21,534.07 (643 hours at $33.49 per hour). Learn more about SCLI here, www.sisterscli.org.
Food specials will be offered for purchase at Luckey’s Woodsman. Wellbehaved/leashed dogs are welcome.
Things get underway with a kids dash at 9:45 a.m., followed by the 10k at 9:50, the 5k run at 10 and the 5k walk at 10:05.
Some proceeds of the event will be targeted to Sisters Rotary and Family Access Network.
Online registration ends March 13 at 5 p.m. (www. runsistersrun.com). No day-of-race registration is available.
Those who registered before March 1 are guaranteed a T-shirt as well. Special awards for the top two men and women in the running races.
A father-daughter moment…
Volunteers cleaned up a former long-term camp spot in the Sisters forest.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Josh and his daughter Joy Roth from Sisters enjoyed a moment at the Young Life Daddy Daughter Dance last weekend, featuring Silent Disco.
PHOTO BY KELLI CARTER
The heavy-handedness and abruptness of their implementation reeked; although the decision may have been legal, it seemed generally void of any integrity.
There are still a number of local owners who make Sisters the town we so much appreciate and enjoy. But who hasn’t felt like they were being “gouged” at a few of our local eateries, businesses, and grocery stores because the tourist demand enables it? Call it transactional profiteering! Yes, it is nice that Sisters has a retirement community option with SSL, but I would urge family members of residents at SSL form an overwatch group to monitor the safety, service, and pricing of Artegan. I don’t think SSL needs to be the only game in town for the future; maybe we should start giving thought to forming our own not-for-profit or co-op living center that is based on quality of life, not bottom-line revenue.
Jim Horsley
s s s
Haste makes waste
To the Editor:
I thank Maret Pajutee for her well-credentialed opinion in her ‘Moving fast and breaking glass in your National Forest’ column in The Nugget on February 25. Having worked with Maret and many other Forest Service employees while owning Camp Tamarack, I, too, can vouch for their integrity and desire to serve the public in managing the forests.
There probably are positions that are overstaffed; however, with the importance of managing wildfires while also handling the safety and recreational needs of the public, it is extremely difficult to know the number of hands that will be needed. While President Trump and Elon Musk are right to scope out fraud and corruption as it applies to the national budget, they would be wise to slow down and consider the impact of their actions wisely and prudently. We hear report after report of employees being terminated for no apparent reason, which is “fraud” itself. Everyone deserves a
fair and accurate assessment of the work they have performed.
The motto “haste makes waste” applies here. How they are cutting federal staff is creating problems, instead of solving them. It in no way resembles an intelligent, sensible way of doing business, something both these men would like us to believe they are capable of doing.
Edie Jones
s s s
Do your research
To the Editor:
Trump inherited the most secure border since the 70s. Both Obama and Biden had higher deportation numbers than Trump. Trump made sure the popular bipartisan Border Act of 2024 (S.4361) died in the House because it would have been bad for his campaign.
Of 530,000 athletes in the NCAA, approximately 10 are transgender.
The “heartstring tugging” programs that Musk is cutting substantially affect the most vulnerable in our country: children, elderly, veterans, the poor, and the disabled. Musk has compromised or eliminated agencies that regulate or oversee his interests and financial gain.
USAID represents 1.2 percent of the federal budget and is soft diplomacy. The VA represents 3.5 percent. The National Park Service represents 1/15 of 1 percent.
The recent budget resolution passed by the House cuts Medicaid by $880 billion in order to give the top 1% a four trillion dollar tax cut. In OR2, which went for Trump, 50 percent of the population is on the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid).
The national debt increased during Trump’s first term to the highest any president had accrued, mostly due to tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans. Trickle down didn’t work.
The U.S. Digital Service was implemented by Obama in 2014 in order to help agencies improve their digital capability. Trump rebranded this agency as D.O.G.E. The Orwellian D.O.G.E. did not exist in any other administration “going back to FDR.”
The 90,000 “unelected bureaucrats” at the
IRS go through background checks by the FBI. Unelected Musk and his teenaged Doggies have had no vetting. Their job performance has been dangerous, sloppy and riddled with errors.
Trump has threatened to leave NATO. Article 5 of NATO has only been invoked once since its inception, by the U.S. after 9/11. All 18 NATO allies supported us.
In dangerous times, facts and truth matter. Do your research.
Margaret Wood s s s
Happy now
To the Editor:
President Trump won the Presidency by a big majority of voters across the country. He won every swing state also, and many of us here in Sisters voted for him.
In my opinion, the Biden administration lost our confidence by destroying our republic with open borders, overwhelming illegal aliens scattered throughout the U.S., rampant crime, skyrocketing inflation, the fiasco withdrawal from Afghanistan, weaponizing government against the people, energy dependence, corrupt FBI, CIA, NIA, CDC, FDA, DOJ, and unlawfully requiring the emergency use COVID “vaccine” resulting in many deaths across our country, plus lying constantly to the public.
President Trump promised to Limit the Government, to Strengthen Our Military, to Address all the above Issues including: closing the borders, and weed out fraud. He plans to defend our Constitution, and our Bill of Rights, giving us back our freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to keep and bear arms, and stand with our ally Israel. A few more of President Trump’s plans are, restore: rule of law, renew the sanctity of life in the womb, restore title ix...no men in women’s sports, secure our elections for citizens, and restore the J6ers to their families ending the great injustice that the government did by having at least (fact confirmed by DOJ) 26 FBI influencers at the Capitol January 6, causing havoc and riling up the
See LETTERS on page 18
from page 17
people along with the Capitol Police who were firing dangerous items into the crowd according to the videos released.
You might not know that the riot started when Trump was still speaking and the walk to the Capitol Building was at least 20 minutes away and many of the people were singing praise songs on the way; that the J6 House Commission investigated for a year or more, destroyed all their evidence after the election, and Biden pardoned them all (why?); that no policemen were killed that day, but a J6er was killed by the Capitol Police; that many of the J6ers walked into the capitol while capitol police ushered them in and some stayed only 10 minutes and peacefully walked out; that many J6ers were raided by the FBI at home, were arrested, and that the J6ers’ constitutional liberties were ignored which were the 5th Amendment (due process), the 6th Amendment (speedy and public trial), the 7th Amendment (right to trial by jury), and the 8th Amendment (no excessive bail or cruel and unusual punishments inflicted); that, “A Sheriff Deputy from Tennessee went to Washington DC to hear President Trump speak, when the people walked to the Capitol, he risked everything to help others, shielding a downed officer from harm, and saving a young woman who was brutally beaten, instead of being commended for his heroic actions, he was arrested and sentenced to nearly six years in prison, he endured over three years in solitary confinement, facing unimaginable hardships, the J6ers are now free but they are coming home to lives that have been completely shattered. (Quote from the wife of the Sheriff Deputy from Tennessee.)
Barbara M. Draxler
s s s
Wildfire hazard
To the Editor:
The controversial wildfire hazard map evoked an opinion piece by County Commissioner, Phil Chang, in the February 25 Bulletin, in which he cited the Sisters City Council’s position: “The Sisters City
Fun & Games
Council wants all its residents to implement defensible space and build new homes with wildfire resilient building materials. Their current thought is that it would be more accurate, fair and effective to apply such requirements across the entire city... then when we have genuinely reduced the wildfire risks... we should figure out how to require insurers to give us credit!”
My first question is why all the new Grove apartment buildings behind Takodas have been allowed to use bark for their entire landscaping plan, when our fire department and state experts have declared bark to be one of the worst hazards to remove first and avoid. Embers sit and smolder, then burst into flame right next to buildings. Is the City including such new construction in its “current thought?” And my next query is aimed at the notion that we should all do the defensible work, and then just hope the insurance companies will be fair, when no such guarantees seem imminent. Residents have already lost coverage or had rates raised.
With complete understanding of wildfire dangers, I still wonder if we are merely building a sturdy cart, not knowing if we will have horses, or will we end up pulling the load ourselves anyway?
Wendie Vermillion
s s s
Provide evidence
To the Editor:
Bruce Campbell, in his opinion piece of February 26, has oddly invoked my name and a humorous piece I contributed on February 5, discussing the Super Bowl and today’s politics, to some broader screed he has about the well-trod conspiracy from progressives that Trump is a fascist.
Once again in an opinion piece, a progressive has placed quotation marks around a comment that I did not, in fact, make, which invalidates all the rest of his criticism as far as I am concerned. If you cannot be honest about what I wrote, then the rest of your opinion is hard to take seriously. Likewise, Bruce, how do you know if my opinion was passive-aggressive, and what does that even mean relative to my piece?
The Washington Redskins logo was created by
a Native American and for many years had almost universal support from fellow Native Americans. Yes, perhaps there has been some pushback more recently over the name Redskins, and its historic use as a slur, but that is not how it was used when referring to the NFL team, and we all know that the meaning to words do change over time.
In a 2004 Annenberg Election Survey and a 2016 WAPO poll, 90 percent of self-identified Native Americans said they were not offended by the name as it was used by the NFL team. Bruce stated, and I am paraphrasing here, that most every one agreed that the name was offensive. Can you show your work, Bruce?
I believe it would do well for Bruce, and the other progressives of Central Oregon to write with a bit less emotion, and more of a desire for accuracy and a concise point of view. If Trump is a fascist, there needs to be better examples than the ad hominem attacks laid out in the opinion piece. Cite a few sources rather than blasting out hyperbolic, heavily partisan opinions. Or, at least try to make it funny.
Steve Woodside s s s
Mound of rubble
To the Editor:
The elected Republican Party is too spineless to stand up to Trump and Musk. Vance encourages Trump to break more laws. After Trump and his gang of bullies have destroyed everything that is good in America; after Trump has angered our allies — and the entire world — with his threats of taking over, and his tariffs, will the world bomb us into a pile of rubble?
If Trump, Musk, Vance, and the rest of the elected Republican Party survive, will they stand upon the mound of rubble they have created, proudly giving the Nazi salute, while wielding chainsaws, and say, “We did this”? Or will all American citizens demand the impeachment of Trump and his entire gang of bullies, now — and remove them from office — to prevent the total annihilation of our country and all Americans?
Tricia Stuart
FIND 10 DIFFERENCES WORD SCRAMBLE & MATCHING
(such as medication management, assistance with care, and help with activities of daily living — dressing, eating, bathing, transferring, etc.). Instead, SSL will be converted to a senior independent living community. There will be no care or clinical staff employed by SSL on the premises.
If a current assisted living resident wishes to remain at SSL as an independent senior living resident they will need to contract with an outside independent home care or home health agency for any needed additional services and pay for those services in addition to their room and board charges at SSL.
The 15 SSL residents who are recipients of Oregon State Medicaid will no longer be able to reside at SSL because, as an independent living community, they will no longer accept Medicaid. Those Medicaid recipients must make alternative living arrangements by April 24. Assisted living residents who are relying on long term care policies to cover the cost will no longer be able to use those for independent living accommodations.
SSL says the reason for the change is due to “economic challenges.”
A meeting was held at SSL on Wednesday, February 26, where the management company was to explain the changes. A standing room only crowd filled the facility’s dining room, composed of residents and their families, as well as members of the local veterans’ organizations and concerned local citizens.
“Our priority has always been the well-being of our residents,” said Warren Page, chief executive officer of Artegan, the company that manages SSL. “While we can no longer sustain an assisted living model, we are dedicated to providing a vibrant and supportive independent living environment. We remain deeply committed to serving seniors and look forward to continuing to be a valuable part of this community.”
When challenged on the necessity for a brief twomonth transition period, Page replied several times that April 24 is the deadline. In the world of senior care, two months is a very brief time to try to secure suitable accommodations. Many Central Oregon facilities (and elsewhere) have long waiting lists of up to several years. According to the State Ombudsman Office, a facility wishing to surrender its
assisted living certification needs to allow two months for the application to be reviewed by the State, but that they are not required to surrender it exactly at two months. People asked Page why the deadline couldn’t be extended, and he did not answer the question.
There are a limited number of Medicaid beds available, and some facilities don’t accept Medicaid as payment. Medicaid is currently under threat for significant cuts ($880 billion) by the Federal government which would seriously impact State Medicaid funds.
At the meeting, Page announced that Artegan had been working with home care agency Right at Home to maintain an office at SSL so they could work with residents to determine their needs, sign contracts, and be able to track clients. However, later in the week, Right at Home withdrew from consideration for that set up. As of The Nugget publication date, Home Instead home care has agreed to fill that spot.
Between now and April 24, SSL will continue to offer current services contracted for by the residents. As a senior independent living facility after April 24, SSL will still provide three meals a day, maintenance of the facility, weekly laundry and housekeeping, and a variety of activities at no additional charge. A concierge will coordinate resident needs with outside agencies. Page assured the residents that with the new structure, they would be able to reduce the independent living rates.
Several months ago, monthly rates increased by 10 percent, and charges for assisted living changed from level of service to fees for individual services. By April 24, it will be the responsibility of each assisted living resident and their families to determine if they will be able to receive the services they need from an independent
contractor and be safe. It not, they will have to find other accommodations. Kim Hector of Department of Human Services will work with residents to help those who need to find other living arrangements.
Resident care staff will no longer be employed by SSL but can go to work for the outside agency providing care, so some familiar staff members may remain in the facility. As of April 24, SSL staff will no longer be allowed to provide handson assistance to residents due to the lack of the proper licensure.
If current assisted living residents can safely get their needs met by contracting with an outside agency, they may stay at SSL, although their monthly cost of living will most likely increase due to the additional fees for service. If a resident falls, SSL staff will not be able to assist them. If an independent living resident needs assistance during the night, they will have to hire a private duty sitter.
Since opening in 2017, there have been periods of struggles for the management. According to Artegan’s CEO Page, in August 2024, investors bought SSL out of bankruptcy for $4.7 million. Since that time, the Page states, it has become
apparent that the current model is financially unsustainable, with the owner “providing charity” by putting his own money in every month to pay facility bills. Therefore, they argue, it is necessary to eliminate assisted living and Medicaid residents and come up with a new model — independent senior living.
Page told attendees,“I can only imagine the anger you must be feeling… If we didn’t change, the entire facility would be closed down…I know you are feeling very vulnerable now. We
want to help you through this.”
The Nugget attempted to contact SSL for this article, but no one responded.
This article is the first in a series exploring the history of senior living in Sisters, who are the current SSL owners, profiles on some of the SSL residents who are impacted by the newly announced changes, and a look at what the community might do to address the lack of adequate appropriate housing for the growing number of seniors in Sisters Country.
Sisters Senior Living residents, their families, and concerned citizens gathered at a public meeting to learn of major changes at the facility.
PHOTO BY SUE STAFFORD
and bring the energy. If the dancers bring the enthusiasm, it pumps up the band and everybody has more fun, which everyone had the pleasure of experiencing tonight.”
Alaina, a fourth grader in attendance — who was dressed to the nines in sequined cowboy boots, a matching cowboy hat, and a shiny silver dress — said, “We should do this every week.”
It may not happen every week, but Kellen Klein, Executive Director, C4C, said Sisters should expect more events like this one.
“This event perfectly captured what C4C is all about – community-centered, collaborative, intergenerational, inclusive, good, clean, screen-free fun,” he said. “The community really turned out to support these young musicians, and seemed to have a blast doing so. We will definitely be doing this again.”
Not only was the night an artistic success, it made an important contribution to the
work of the club.
C4C and SFFP covered all event expenses, so that all donations and proceeds from merchandise sales went directly to the Outlaw Strings Club. They raised over $1,900 to support their music education programming.
Wanted: Your dusty old fiddles
Do you have a violin/ fiddle that is pining away sadly in a closet or under a bed? Perhaps your children or grandchildren once took lessons and you haven’t been able to let go of the instrument. If so, your fiddle is not fulfilling its fiddle destiny and Outlaw Strings can help.
The Outlaw Strings program at Sisters School District has outgrown its fiddle inventory and they need your instrument. They will put your violin/fiddle in the hands of a student who will use it to launch their strings journey. Imagine sitting at the Sisters Folk Festival someday, looking at an artist and being able to say “I donated their first instrument!”
They are looking for small sizes too; half, three-quarter, and of course full-sized fiddles would all be great. If you don’t have an instrument but would like to sponsor a
fiddler through a direct contribution to help purchase a refurbished instrument, that works, too. Your donation is
Outlaw Strings is supported in part by SFF Presents, an Oregon 501(c)(3)
BY
nonprofit organization. For more information, email melissa.stolasz@ssd6.org or crista@sffpresents.org.
Ruth Palmer took The Nugget when she and her husband, Tim Toth, went on a 23-day to Portugal and Paris. Pictur behind Ruth is Lisbon, Portugal, full of colorful tiles and cobblestone streets. Ruth, Tim, and The Nugget also visited Notre Dame and the Louvre
Outlaw Strings students make up the dance band Scandalous Chutney.
PHOTO
KELLEN KLEIN
SMS Lip Sync Competition a hit
Olivia Nieto Correspondent
Sisters Middle School hosted their third annual Lip Sync Competition at the SMS gym on Friday, February 28.
The event involved the whole school, teachers and students alike, and prioritized student engagement and collaboration.
Students are organized into four different houses named after Oregon rivers, the McKenzie, Metolius, Deschutes, and Whychus. Each house combines middle school students of different ages and grades.
The houses hold varying contests throughout the year, from academic olympics to regular olympics, all with the goal of increasing school spirit.
“The older students in the houses help a lot with the mentorship of younger students but the guidance of teachers brings it all together,” said Sisters Middle
School Principal Tim Roth. This year’s Lip Sync was filled with students ready to show what they had been working on and excited to see other performances. All teams performed a group cheer before displaying a choreographed lip-sync dance to the judges, each about three minutes long and to a wide range of different songs but each instilled with all-around
enthusiasm from the students and teachers who performed.
Whychus House was voted to have the Best House Cheer and Best Lip Sync at the end of the event and all the students celebrated the work they put in and the fun they had along the way.
The tradition will continue and no doubt keep engaging students and increasing school spirit.
Sisters youth to help those in need
For nearly a decade, a small group of Sisters High School students has dedicated the first half of their spring break to serving and empowering those in need of rehabilitation, help, and a fresh start in life.
It all started in 2015 when Jared Vogt took a small crew of Sisters High School students to Portland to serve at Night Strike and alongside Portland Rescue Mission — now Because People Matter (BPM). Since then, Project Portland has thrived through its connections with nonprofits, a growing student body, and its outreach to those in need within the Portland area.
By partnering with various nonprofit organizations, students encounter situations they may never witness in Sisters. They meet men and women living on the streets, struggling to survive with only the most basic supplies. Due to the fentanyl crisis, students come face-to-face with individuals whose bodies are literally deteriorating.
“I interacted with those experiencing homelessness, addiction, mental illness, etc. As a senior, I believe Project Portland has been a crucial steppingstone in shaping me into a more well-rounded individual as I prepare to go out into the world and face whatever challenges come my way,” said George Roberts, graduating senior.
Through conversations, handing out sandwiches, and working alongside those dedicated to long-term
rehabilitation, students wrestle with the tension between immediate handouts and the need for lasting change.
For some, Project Portland has been a life-altering experience.
“This experience instilled in me a deep understanding that mission work is not about quick fixes but about building relationships by meeting people where they are,” said Hadley Schar, 2023 SHS graduate, and full-time Youth With a Mission (YWAM) student. “I recognize that true impact comes from genuine human connection, not just material aid… Everyone had a deep desire to be known and loved.”
“At its core, Project Portland is about more than just providing sandwiches, water, or a shower — it’s about offering genuine human connection,” said Sisters Community Church Youth
The Power of Mom
ByAlissaCowan
For nine months I ca rry life in my womb
Ever y time I eat, sleep and br eathe, I think of you
The countless trips to the bathr oom ever y time I had to pee
The mor ning sickness, cr amps and cr avings, you and I were meant to be
Contr actions and deep br eathing, giving life is a har d thing to do
Pr essure–then a gr eat Push, life is all br and ne w
Ne w pants size, ne w br a size, str etch mar ks show wher e you’ ve been
Together we lear ned to nur se–sustaining life as you be gin
Clogged milk ducts, sleepless nights, is ba by getting enough to eat?
Car e and wonder e ver y hour, to pr otect this love so sweet
Then came your teeth that lear ned to bite your mama, who was ser ving the meal
Little by little, I taught you to eat GENTLY, adding solids to the deal
I taught you how to go potty in a civilized way
How to w alk, how to talk r espectfully each day
Through constant time and devotion to your actions, wo rds and tr aining
Teac hing, loving, guiding, even when you’ re complaining
Messy “mom bun” mor nings, six dif fer ent gr ades to teac h
Making br eakfast and lunc h, w hile rocking the baby to sleep
Five conver sations at the same time–
A comment, a r equest, a f act,
a question and a stor y–all in line
Relear ning math conc epts to show the value in daily lif e
Pr oblem-solving, meal planning, hear t chec king, mother and wife
Laundr y Of ficer, Dish Detector, ensuring the c hor es will be done
Doctor with Band-Aids and snuggles, kisses for each one
A Mother Bear with the biggest bear hugs in the land
Nur sing a baby in the chec kout line, shopping-car t pushing with my “free hand”
Stor ybook r eader, joke laugher, to eac h an encour aging suppor t
Play on the floor, Daddy walks thr ough the door, time to make a fort!
Dinner is made, singing songs and pr ay blessings for eac h c hild
Toothbrush time, making a line, both wiggly and wild
Pastor Dustin Smith. “This year, Sisters Community Church is once again seeking to transform the lives of both students and those they encounter. Through radical hospitality, care, and exposure to real-world challenges, students will grapple with what it truly means to make a difference.”
Smith recalled, “As a Sisters High alum, I remember walking into the high school every day and reading the words attributed to Abraham Lincoln: ‘Whatever you are, be a good one.’ That’s precisely what we aim to do each year — develop students into who they are called to be in this world.”
The 2025 Project Portland trip takes place March 13-17. Sign-ups are still available and open to all high school students. For more information, contact Smith at dsmith@sisterschurch.com.
Sweet snuggles abound
Stories, lights out, kisses all around
Waking up ever y fe w hour s
Tending to dr eams, a cup of water, or a snac k for them to devour
I could tr avel the wor ld, have all the degr ees
Make lots of money, and focus on Me
Yet life would be empty, with lack of joy
If I didn’t have each girl and boy
T his life is pr ecious, each ne w day
With the gift of my c hildren, for whic h I pr ayed
Imperfect yet beautiful, lear ning as I go
Gr ateful for the giggles that fill my home
Stuf fed animals all over, messes to c lean
It tr uly takes effort fr om the whole team
Life is full, not alw ays calm
I wouldn’t tr ade it for the world,
I love being a Mom
Have an original poem that you’ d like to share?
Email submissions to
The Project Portland trip is set for this month.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Sisters Middle School students demonstrated their lip-syncing skills in a four-way competition last week.
PHOTO BY OLIVIA NIETO
POLICE CHIEF: BBR
Police are part of law enforcement presence
Continued from page 1
on February 6, after serving as acting chief for six months.
Rich is the department’s fifth police chief. He follows Jason Van Meter who moved to Sunriver’s police department in October.
With its six officers, the department is the largest by staff in Sisters Country and regularly assists Deschutes County and Jefferson County Sheriffs departments, the latter who patrol Camp Sherman.
Rich also has the seasonal services of a husband-andwife team who are unarmed volunteer Community Service Officers. The pair cover the Ranch primarily by bicycle enforcing code and assisting visitors unfamiliar with the Ranch and its rules.
“We have a fleet of bikes, and I encourage all our team to be on them often,” Rich said. “It’s both good exercise
SISTERS: Town continues to be a safe community
Continued from page 1
Sisters remains a safe city. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Chad Davis presented the second annual report. Comparing 2023 to 2024, Sisters’ criminal cases declined slightly in: theft, burglary, driving under the influence, and traffic crimes. There were also reductions in written warnings, traffic and violation citations, case reports, and arrests. Any incident increases were primarily deputies administrative or community engagement tasks. Sisters DCSO added a patrol pick-up vehicle, making two in the fleet, and replaced an old with a new Dodge Durango. Council thanked Lt. Davis and his three officers for their community outreach and keeping Sisters safe.
Sisters Trails Alliance Director, Stephanie Presley and Sisters High School student Tegan Welsh requested letters of support from Council to secure funding to create nature paths in nearby areas of the schools to enable greater outdoor accessibility and study of flora and fauna. Near the end of the general meeting, council gave a nod of support and asked Presley to provide specifics to City staff.
Ed Owens, and later Marvin Inman, expressed concerns over the dramatic changes planned at Sisters Senior Living ( see story, page 1 ). Each noted
and a great way to interact with our residents.
“We have a great partnership with Deschutes County, and we support each other often,” Rich told The Nugget. “We have frequent contact.”
During the winter when the Ranch hosts limited numbers of tourists, Rich’s team is readily available to the Sisters Station of DCSO, and in the summer when activity ramps up at the Ranch, Rich is grateful for the backup from DCSO.
Lt. Chad Davis who heads the Sisters office shares in the sentiment.
“We assist the Black Butte Ranch Police Department upon request for cover requests or mutual aid. These calls are typically on traffic stops, alarms and any call for service where a cover officer is needed, and they don’t have an officer available.
BBRPD also covers our deputies upon request in the same scenarios,” Davis said.
“DCSO and BBRPD also respond to agency assist request calls in the Camp Sherman (and surrounding
examples of adverse impacts to elderly residents, their families, and staff layoffs. Owens was asking council to look into it. Council noted later that as Sisters Senior Living is privately owned with the land use and zoning allowing the implemented changes, the Council and City has no recourse. Each councilor, however, voiced dismay over changes.
Progress on past meeting public concerns were reported by City Manager Jordan Wheeler:
• Urban Growth Boundary (UGB): The City fielded several public comments wanting the project to not be delayed by the McKenzie Meadows property’s rezoning request. Staff responded that the planned approach by UGB Steering Committee assures progress regardless of any rezoning efforts.
• Wildfire Risk Maps: Local public concerns are being appealed by Deschutes County and the City will soon submit letters to Oregon Department of Forestry and to Senator Jeff Golden. Meanwhile the legislature is also appealing, and Governor Tina Kotek froze actions based on the risk maps.
• Pedestrian safety: Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will include rapid flashing traffic lights on a proposed crosswalk on Highway 20, as part of Woodlands Phase II. The work will be a test case for possible similar work by ODOT elsewhere on Cascade Avenue. Also, ODOT will handle the re-painting of the faded crosswalks on Cascade.
Jefferson County lands) area upon request for priority calls, where a law enforcement officer is needed immediately when the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or the Oregon State Police aren’t available. Typically, we respond to those calls and remain on scene until we are relieved by JCSO or OSP.”
Camp Sherman has no full or part-time deputy since the retirement of a resident officer last year. Its policing needs are met by one of seven patrol deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in Madras.
“We get about one or two calls a month for support in Camp Sherman,” Rich said.
Working across county lines is not an issue for the BBR department — or for any agency in the state. Oregon law grants all sworn public safety officers the right
We have a fleet of bikes, and I encourage all our team to be on them often. It’s both good exercise and a great way to interact with our residents.
— Chief Todd Rich
to enforce laws, make arrests, and respond to emergencies anywhere in the state. When asked the primary difference in his work since being promoted to chief, he responded, “In addition to leading the team, setting goals and policies, the basic change is in my interaction with owners and guests. I have more time to socialize with residents such as at community roundtables and get to
know their needs better.”
Rich would like to see an increase in the department’s budget.
“We are down one officer from our historical levels,” he said.
Davis with his three deputies and Rich get an assist from the DCSO West Deputy who covers the unincorporated areas outside the city limits when the City of Sisters deputies are engaged.
The West Deputy also will cover City deputies on calls for service and take calls in the city when the city deputy is already on a call or unavailable due to training or court.
The West Deputy is responsible for covering the City of Sisters when city deputies are not on duty, and they also cover the unincorporated areas in the West District such as Cloverdale.
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Sisters swim team wraps up season
By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent
The Sisters High swim team completed the 2025 season with two individuals competing at the state championships at the Tualatin Valley Aquatics Center in Beaverton February 21-22.
Joseph Souza, the district champion in the 50-yard freestyle a week earlier, swam 23.15 in prelims and 23.18 in the final, a season best, for sixth place. Finn Bizzell of Astoria took the crown in 22.01.
In the 100-yard breaststroke, Souza didn’t make it out of the preliminaries in which the top six qualified for the finals. He clocked 1:04.68 in a very tight race in which places fourth through ninth finished within 0.4 seconds of one another. The champion, Lucas Brandt of Philomath, finished in 59.73.
Mae Roth qualified from district as a wildcard in the 100-yard butterfly, and at state ended up the 11th-best time in the prelims 1:13.57. The winner in the final was Tia Chakrapani of Catlin Gabel who blistered the field with a time of 59.95.
At the District Meet, held in Albany on February 14-15, the girls team placed seventh among 12 teams with 94 points.
In addition to her fifthplace finish in the 100-yard butterfly (1:12.84), Roth placed seventh in the 50 yard freestyle (28.17). Haven Heuberger placed 13th in the 50 with a time of 29.94.
Freshman Lola Magner scored in two events by placing sixth in both the 100 yard backstroke (1:14.06) and the 100 yard breaststroke (1:25.90).
Rylie Bick placed seventh in the 200 freestyle (2:31.0) and Kate Singleton scored in the 50 freestyle (28.58) for eighth place and in the 100 freestyle (1:05.71) for seventh.
The 200-yard freestyle relay of Haven Heuberger, Bick, Roth, and Singleton placed fifth in 1:55.10.
In the 200-yard medley relay of Magner, Bick, Roth Singleton, the team placed sixth in 2:11.87.
Souza and Dakota Smithers
represented the Outlaws on the boys side at District. In addition to his first place finish in 50-yard freestyle (23.49), Souza placed third in the 100 breaststroke (1:07.14).
Smithers placed 32nd in 50-yard free (31.02) and 24th in 100-yard freestyle with a time of 1:11.37.
Sisters placed 11th among 11 teams with 28 points. Marist Catholic won with 270.
Coach Alex Bick recapped the season: “Joseph Souza completed his senior year and has been with the team for four years. He qualified for the state meet every year and this year made the finals in the 50 Freestyle. He has been a pleasure to coach and he will be a big loss for Sisters boys swimming.”
He continued, “Our top senior girl, Mae Roth, took on the 100 fly late in the season and swam her fastest at districts, earning a trip to state in an incredible swim in Albany, which was quite an accomplishment in a new event.
“Rylie Bick showed consistency throughout the year and was a true leader on our team showing commitment to workouts and helping other teammates,” he said. “Kate Singleton was our fastest swimmer in the sprint events and we look forward to seeing her swim at districts next year.”
Looking ahead Bick said, “The team added some newcomers that had good first years and we look forward to growing the team even more next year. One newcomer, Lola Magnar, balanced her schedule in swimming both club and high school and had a really good first district meet.”
Bick also acknowledged the contributions of two other girls.
“I need to mention Haven Heuberger for bringing joy to the team and making everyday more fun, and also newcomer Hailey Handley, who embraced new challenges and made the team laugh at times we needed some levity. Lastly, I wanted to say thank you to both Black Butte Ranch and Sisters Athletic Club for the use of their pools. We could not have a season without their willingness to share the facilities.”
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102 Commercial Rentals
Executive Office Space
Very nice executive office space for rent in Sisters light industrial park. 224 sq. ft. private office.
Shared restrooms with shower.
Shared conference/kitchen room. Easy parking. All utilities included. Starting at $750 per month. Call 541-549-9631
STORAGE WITH BENEFITS
• 8 x 20 dry box
• Fenced yard, RV & trailers
• In-town, gated, 24-7 EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com
MINI STORAGE
Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor RV parking. 7-day access.
Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies.
RETAIL/OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE
220 S PINE ST, SISTERS
1st Floor Retail - 582 SQFT
Office Suite 209 - 500 SQFT
Office Suite 210 - 502 SQFT For information call: Lorna Nolte 541-419-8380
Lorna@NolteProperties.com
103 Residential Rentals
PONDEROSA PROPERTIES
–Monthly Rentals Available–Call Debbie at 541-549-2002
Full details, 24 hrs./day, go to: PonderosaProperties.com
Printed list at 178 S. Elm, Sisters Ponderosa Properties LLC
CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS
Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792
Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com
104 Vacation Rentals
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Downtown Vacation Rentals
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202 Firewood
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205 Garage & Estate Sales
Estate Sale On Awbrey ButteBend!
Open Wednesday, March 12 –Saturday, March 15, 9-4. MCM Danish office furniture, designer clothing-handbagsjewelry-shoes, furniture, bedroom sets, dining table, dishes, crystal, silverware, art, books, collectibles, vintage ski equipment/ski suits, raft, 2005 Ford Explorer, patio furniture & more!
View pics on estatesales.net
– Hosted by Happy Trails! –Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions!
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301 Vehicles
Wanted: 1963 Corvette car, split window coupe. Some repairs ok. Numbers need not match. Grandpa Don, 541-232-3748.
We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397
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401 Horses ORCHARD GRASS HAY ALFALFA TRITICALE
New crop. No rain. Barn stored. 3-tie bales. $220-$360/ton. Hwy. 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895
500 Services
GEORGE’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE
“A Well Maintained Septic System Protects the Environment” 541-549-2871
NOTARY PUBLIC - LOCAL
– Call Cheryl 541-420-7875 –
Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul! 541-719-8475
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SMALL Engine REPAIR Lawn Mowers, Chainsaws & Trimmers
Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Authorized service center for Stihl, Honda, Ariens/Gravely, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki Engines
501 Computers & Communications
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502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning GORDON’S LAST TOUCH Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY
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600 Tree Service & Forestry
– All You Need Maintenance –Tree removal, property thinning & clearing, forestry mastication & mulching, stump grinding. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
4 Brothers Tree Service Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! – TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP –Native / Non-Native Tree Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency Storm Damage Cleanup, Craning & Stump Grinding, Debris Removal.
– FOREST MANAGEMENT –Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects!
Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003 ** Free Estimates **
Owner James Hatley & Sons 541-815-2342 4brostrees.com
Licensed, Bonded and Insured CCB-215057
TimberStandImprovement.net
Tree Removal & Pruning
TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825
LOLO TREE WORKS
Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services. ISA Certified Arborist
Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638
Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com CCB #240912
601 Construction
Custom Homes Additions - Remodels
Residential Building Projects Becke William Pierce CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384
Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com
Earthwood Timber
• Recycled fir and pine beams
• Mantels and accent timbers
• Sawmill/woodshop services EWDevCoLLC@gmail.com
New construction, addition, remodel. Large and small projects. Contact for estimate. Excavation: septic system, site prep, demolition, road and driveway construction. 541-325-3020 sales@gardnercontractingllc.com
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
Level: Difficult Answer: Page 26
3 Sisters TeleNetworks, LLC Extend internet to shop, security cameras, Starlink. CCB #191099 541-306-0729
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
CASCADE GARAGE DOORS
Factory Trained Technicians Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
INSPIRED CUSTOM HOMES
www.teeharborconstruction.com
541-213-8736 • CCB#75388
Construction & Renovation
Custom Residential Projects
All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448
602 Plumbing & Electric
Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Remodels • Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas monteselectric@hotmail.com
CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860
Ridgeline Electric, LLC
Serving all of Central Oregon
• Residential • Commercial
• Industrial • Service
541-588-3088 • CCB #234821
SWEENEY
PLUMBING, INC.
“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling
• New Construction
• Water Heaters
541-549-4349
Residential and Commercial
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587 THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER
603 Excavation & Trucking
ROBINSON & OWEN
Heavy Construction, Inc.
All your excavation needs
*General excavation
*Site Preparation
*Sub-Divisions
*Road Building
*Sewer and Water Systems
*Underground Utilities
*Grading
*Sand-Gravel-Rock
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED
CRAFTSMAN BUILT
CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com
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
Custom Homes • Additions
Residential Building Projects
Serving Sisters area since 1976
Strictly Quality
CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 541-280-9764
John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com
SERVICE TO PROVIDE?
BUSINESS TO PROMOTE?
VEHICLE FOR SALE? HOUSE TO RENT?
LOOKING FOR LAND?
GARAGE TOO FULL?
NEED SOME HELP?
Advertise in The Nugget Newspaper's CLASSIFIEDS For no additional cost your classified goes ONLINE! Go to www.NuggetNews.com
DEADLINE: Every Monday by noon. Call 541-549-9941
605 Painting EMPIRE PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
Interior/Exterior Painting
Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
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
CCB #124327
541-549-1848
BANR Enterprises, LLC
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Residential & Commercial
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977
www.BANR.net
Full Service Excavation
Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com
541-549-1472 • CCB #76888
Drainfield
• Minor & Major Septic Repair
• All Septic Needs/Design & Install
General Excavation
• Site Preparation
• Rock & Stump Removal
• Pond & Driveway Construction
Preparation
• Building Demolition
Trucking
• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Whatever You Want!
604 Heating & Cooling
ACTION AIR
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com
CCB #195556 541-549-6464
Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.
CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com 541-515-8462
Lawn Maintenance Service
Sisters Landscape is adding another maintenance crew. We have a limited number of spots available on our schedule, give us a call for a free estimate. 541-549-3001
– All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, mowing, moss removal, edging, raking, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
701 Domestic Services
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC
Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
801 Classes & Training Looking for Bridge/Pitch and Sewing teachers, 503-319-9338, text only. T H E N U
802 Help Wanted
Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District has an opening for a Captain – Shift Commander (Paramedic Required) – Closing March 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. Link to here: https://www.sistersfire.com/ employment/
We are Hiring! Join our summer camp culture at Lake Creek Lodge. We're recruiting for: Housekeeping.
PT/FT. We are proud to offer flexible schedules and excellent compensation. www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW Forest Service Rd. 1419, Camp Sherman
Black Butte School District is hiring an Upper Grades Teacher
More info at blackbutte.k12.or. us/employment or 541-595-6203
803 Work Wanted I AM A CAREGIVER Looking for work in Sisters, Part-Time Please call Lynn 503-274-0214.
Y O U R S O U R C E for up-to-date Sisters news! www.NuggetNews.com
999 Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the City of Sisters Planning Commission will conduct an in-person public hearing at Sisters City Hall, 520 E. Cascade Avenue, Sisters, on March 20, 2025, at 5:30 PM regarding the application listed below. The hearing will be held in accordance with Sisters Development Code (SDC) Chapter 4.1 and the rules of procedure adopted by the Council and available at City Hall. Prior to the public hearing, written comments may be provided to Sisters City Hall at 520 E. Cascade Avenue, Sisters (mailing address PO Box 39, Sisters, OR 97759) or emailed to mmartin@ci.sisters.or.us. Comments should be directed toward the criteria that apply to this request and must reference the file number. For additional information, please contact Matthew Martin, Principal Planner at (541) 323-5208 or mmartin@ci.sisters.or.us.
The staff report and recommendation to the hearings body will be available for review at least seven (7) days before the hearing. All submitted evidence and materials related to the application are available for inspection at City Hall. Copies of all materials will be available on request at a reasonable cost. The Planning Commission meeting is accessible to the public either in person or via Zoom online meeting. Meeting information, including the Zoom link, can be found on https:// www.ci.sisters.or.us/meetings.
PUBLIC HEARING: March 20, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.
FILE #: TA 25-01
APPLICANT: City of Sisters REQUEST: Text Amendments to SDC Chapter 1.3 – Definitions and Chapter 3 – Design Standards. The purpose is to establish defensible space standards for new development to mitigate the impacts of wildfire. APPLICABLE CRITERIA: SDC Chapter 1.3 – Definitions, Chapter 3 – Design Standards, Chapter 4.1 – Types of Applications and Review Procedures, Chapter 4.7 – Land Use District Map and Text Amendments; City of Sisters Urban Area Comprehensive Plan; and Oregon’s Statewide Land Use Goals
SERVICE TO PROVIDE? BUSINESS TO PROMOTE? VEHICLE FOR SALE? HOUSE TO RENT? LOOKING FOR LAND? GARAGE TOO FULL? NEED SOME HELP? Advertise in The Nugget Newspaper's CLASSIFIEDS For no additional cost your classified goes ONLINE! Go to www.NuggetNews.com
DEADLINE: Every Monday by noon. Call 541-549-9941
Luckey’s Woodsman held a benefit spaghetti feed last Friday night to collect funds to help laid off Forest Service employees with their living expenses. Forest Service employees — including one reportedly on the Sisters Ranger District — are affected by recent Trump Administration cuts in the federal government. Owner Jackson Higdon has plans for more benefit events in the future.
Sisters Country birds
By Douglas Beall Correspondent
The Green-tailed Towhee [pipilo chlorurus] with its distinctive rust crest is a somewhat secretive ground nesting bird, which on occasion uses porcupine hair to line its nest, and lays four to six pale blue heavily spotted eggs which hatch in 11-14 days. The chicks will begin foraging in 11-14 days. This Towhee will protect its nest by raising its tail and scittering off mimicking a ground squirrel to distract predators. As a ground forager, it spends most of its time on the ground or in thick cover, scratching about
industriously in the leaf litter, often under Manzanita and it may go unnoticed. But its catlike mewing call, which it often gives from a brushy perch, is one of the quintessential sounds of the shrublands of the east slope of the Cascades.
The Green-tailed Towhee is the only entirely migratory, and is also the smalles,t towhee. Their scientific name roughly translates to “colourful chirper.”
A group of Towhees are known as a “tangle” or a “teapot.” For more Greentailed Towhee images, visit http://abirdsings becauseithasasong.com/ recent-journeys.
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Working together, we spin the threads that connect our community in a rich and colorful tapestry. We appreciate you, Sisters!
PHOTO BY SUE STAFFORD
BBR & CAMP SHERMAN:
• Black Butte Ranch General Store
• Black Butte Ranch Post Off ice
• Black Butte Ranch Welcome Center
• Camp Sherman Post Off ice • Metolius River Lodges
REDMOND & TERREBONNE:
• Bi-Mart • Oliver Lemon’s Terrebonne • M&W Market
The Ranch Market • Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
TUMALO:
• Pisano’s Pizza • Shell Station • T umalo Coffeehouse
T umalo Farmstand • T umalo Feed Co.
SISTERS LOCATIONS:
• Angeline’s Baker y • Bedouin
•Best Western Ponderosa Lodge • Bi-Mart
• Black Butte Realty Group
• Cabin Creek Home & Style • Cascade Fitness
• Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s • Central Oregon Eyecare
•Chevron/McDonald’s • Countr y Coffee
• Dair y Queen • Dixie’s • Eurosports
• Fika Sisters Coffeehouse • First Interstate Bank
• FivePine Lodge • GrandStay Hotel & Suites
• Habitat Thrif t Store • Hardtails Bar & Grill
• High Camp Taphouse • High Desert Chocolates
• Hoyt’s Hardware & Building Supply
• Lef t Coast Lodge • Les Schwab Tire Center
• Luckey’s Woodsman • Makin’ it Local
• Martolli’s of Sisters • Mid Oregon Credit Union
• Oliver Lemon’s • Paulina Springs Books
• Philadelphia’s Steak & Hoagies
• Ponderosa Properties • Rancho Viejo
• Ray’s Food Place • Sinclair Gas Station
• Sisters Ace Hardware • Sisters Apothecar y
• Sisters Art Works • Sisters Athletic Club
• Sisters Baker y • Sisters Bunkhouse • Sisters City Hall
• Sisters Coffee Co.• Sisters Community Church
• Sisters Creekside Campg round
• Sisters Dino Market •Sisters Depot
• Sisters Elementar y School •Sisters Feed & Supply
• Sisters Galler y & Frame Shop • Sisters High School
• Sisters Inn & Suites • Sisters Librar y
• Sisters Liquor Store • Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
• Sisters Middle School • Sisters Moto
• Sisters Movie House & Café • Sisters Nails & Spa
• Sisters Post Off ice •Sisters Pumphouse & Countr y Store
• Sisters Ranger Station • Sisters Rental
• Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill
• Sisters School Administration Building
• Sisters Senior Living • Sisters Veterinar y Clinic
• Ski Inn Taphouse & Motel • Sno Cap Drive In
• Space Age F uel • Spoons Restaurant
• Sisters Park & Recreation District
• St. Charles Family Care • Stellar Realty Northwest
• Suttle Tea • Takoda’s Restaurant & Lounge
• The Barn in Sisters • The Galler y Restaurant
• The Gallimaufr y • The Nugget Front Porch
• The Pony Express • Three Creeks Brew Pub
• Three Sisters Floral
• Western Title & Escrow Company • Your Store