The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLVIII No. 17 // 2025-04-23

The Nugget

Sisters’ love affair with popular Highland cattle

DA: Sheriff gave false testimony on education

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Deschutes County District

Attorney Steve Gunnels has placed Sheriff Kent van der Kamp on a “Brady List,” meaning the DA considers van der Kamp an untrustworthy witness who should not be called to testify in future cases. The listing came

out of an investigation in which the DA found that van der Kamp misrepresented his educational credentials under oath in three DUII cases more than 10 years ago.

On Friday, April 18, Gunnels released a 34-page press release including a report on investigative

See SHERIFF on page 27

High Desert Heroines — Roblay McMullin

By Maret Pajutee Correspondent

Roblay McMullin was a woman who contained multitudes. In her long life she was a secretary, rancher, developer, pioneer of the recreation industry, cook/chef, horsewoman, boss, friend, eloquent

correspondent, and finally, what one guest called, the “hostess with the mostest” in Parisian jewelry and leopard print. Driving into Camp Sherman, on the right as you cross Lake Creek, you’ll see a Cascadian retreat which has

Awbrey Cyrus interacts with one of her Highland cattle. The iconic shaggy cow is growing in popularity in Sisters Country.

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Walk up and down Cascade Avenue and you will find various shops selling Highland cow-themed merchandise. Denelle Martin who owns Open Range Gifts, Furniture and Décor is known for her metal art animals – elk, deer, bear, coyotes, bison, and western rodeo pieces, some nearly life-size. And now in her iron menagerie are the iconic Highland cows.

Her love affair with the shaggy and photogenic beasts began with a customer request years ago and finally Martin has the real thing –five mature cows and one recently born calf with two more on the way in the next few weeks.

Down the street at Your Store where there are dozens of hoodies, T-shirts, and zipups designs, front and center — and some of their biggest sellers — are apparel with screened Highland cows.

The shop owners are also the founders of Rags To Rescue Sanctuary in

CATTLE on page 24

Authors, booksellers lit up bookstore

By T. Lee Brown Correspondent

It’s horror, “it’s lighthearted horror,” an author assured a potential reader at Paulina Springs Books last week.

“It’s a mystery, but it’s about the mystery of the Zinfandel grape,” explained another author, sitting nearby.

Technically, the writers weren’t selling their work. Rather, they were giving it away: copies of their new and upcoming books, with personalized author signatures and a bit of conversation to boot.

The readership, in this case? Not the public, but a subset of the publishing industry. Circulating through the bookstore in a bustling, friendly crowd were members of the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association (PNBA).

Book-adjacent folks may be aware of PNBA’s actionpacked annual trade show, which has been going on for decades and takes place in larger cities. A new series of PNBA pop-ups offers more intimate environments.

“The fact that we were chosen to host booksellers from Alaska, Idaho,

Washington, Montana, and Oregon speaks volumes to what a special place that this community has helped to craft our little shop into,” wrote Paulina Springs Books owner Lane Jacobson in an email.

Pop-ups like the one in

See AUTHORS on page 28

Authors including Sisters writer Catherine Cowles (left) and Portlandbased Evan Leikam (right) signed books for publishers and booksellers at a recent event.

PHOTO BY T. LEE

See

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

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.

Compartmentalizing

Thanks Audry Van Houweling for her excellent article on the art of compartmentalizing.

Yes! The ability to compartmentalize is a necessary coping skill. There are times when we need to set our emotions aside in order to deal with situations that call for a cool head, but we do not want to become detached. We

must acknowledge our emotions when it is safe to do so and deal with them. I whole heartedly agree that we must “connect to meaning” and find a battle “worth fighting” as essential elements of emotional health.

Her column is so timely; I hope many take it to heart.

Terry Hardin

Sisters Weather Forecast

A turning point

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Next Wednesday, April 30, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, South Vietnam, to North Vietnamese forces.

See LETTERS on page 14

The Nugget Newspaper, LLC

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442 E. Main Ave., P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759 Tel: 541-549-9941 | Email: editor@nuggetnews.com

Postmaster: Send address changes to The Nugget Newspaper, P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759. Third Class Postage Paid at Sisters, Oregon.

Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius

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Co-owner: J. Louis Mullen

The Nugget is available to pick up free at The Nugget office and at businesses throughout Sisters and Tumalo; mail subscriptions are available in the 97759, 97756, 97730, and 97703 zip codes for $55/year; subscriptions outside these zip codes: $70/year, $45/six months (or less).

Easter!

A visit with the Easter Bunny is a highlight of the day for many local children.

The days leading up to the fall of Saigon were chaotic, with hordes of desperate South Vietnamese crashing the gates of the American Embassy, seeking berths on the last flights out of the country in fear of reprisals at the hands of North Vietnamese Communists.

They were justified in their fear and panic. The socalled Democratic Republic of Vietnam was ruthless in suppressing its enemies. The Viet Cong and the People’s Army of Vietnam had engaged in summary executions and mass murder of their enemies when they took the city of Hue during the 1968 Tet Offensive, and re-education camps or worse loomed in the future of South Vietnamese government officials as the tanks rolled into Saigon in 1975.

The image that defines the evacuation of Saigon is of a helicopter on the roof of the embassy, with a long queue of people who might or might not be lifted off to the safety of the U.S. Navy stationed off the coast.

Thus ended the Vietnam War, a turning point in American history.

The fissures created in American society by that conflict have never fully closed. Some of them overlap with the fissures that divide American society today. The America of 1965 was an almost unrecognizably different place in 1975. One salient difference was in the willingness of Americans to believe in the truthfulness and good faith of their leaders. Vietnam was the beginning of a tremendous loss of faith in American institutions.

The revelations of “The Pentagon Papers” showed that American political and military leaders knew from the beginning that there was little prospect of victory in Vietnam, even as they continued to send young men off to die there. Their public pronouncements did not match their private assessments.

The same thing happened two generations later in Afghanistan. For 20 years, military and political

leaders told the public that progress was being made in that broken country — while in private interviews they baldly acknowledged that they were locked in a war with no clear definition of victory, much less a strategy to get there.

As Craig Whitlock wrote in the mindfully titled “The Afghanistan Papers”:

“Distracted by the war in Iraq, the U.S. military became mired in an unwinnable guerrilla conflict in a country it did not understand. But no president wanted to admit failure, especially in a war that began as a just cause. Instead, the Bush, Obama, and Trump administrations sent more and more troops to Afghanistan and repeatedly said they were making progress, even though they knew there was no realistic prospect for an outright victory.”

The Biden Administration capped the slow-rolling disaster with a catastrophic and bloody withdrawal. The Muse of History called out the echoes of Saigon with an image of a helicopter hovering over the U.S. Embassy that directly called back to the iconic image of April 30, 1975.

Netflix will drop a new documentary, “Turning Point: The Vietnam War” on April 30. It’s the third in a series, which has covered the Atomic Bomb and the Global War on Terror. The documentaries are outstanding, and the new one on Vietnam will surely be worth the time.

We are vested in a belief that knowing our history has value. I hope that’s true, since I’ve built most of my life around it. But there are times when I despair, and believe that Doña Alfonsa in Cormac McCarthy’s “All the Pretty Horses” has it right:

“In history there are no control groups. There is no one to tell us what might have been. We weep over the might have been, but there is no might have been. There never was. It is supposed to be true that those who do not know history are condemned to repeat it. I don’t believe knowing can save us. What is constant in history is greed and foolishness and a love of blood and this is a thing that even God — who knows all that can be known — seems powerless to change.”

PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT

Outlaws tour Portugal

By Olivia Nieto Correspondent

Teachers Samra Spear and Gail Greaney took a group of 11 Sisters High School students on a tour of Portugal at the end of March.

Trips to other countries and continents have become a near-annual tradition thanks to EF Travels who organizes the trips. A fee is required to participate, but all of the attendees agree it was worth the price.

“I seriously had the time of my life exploring Scandinavia last year with Mrs. Spear and Mrs. Greaney which influenced me to reapply this year,” said junior Conlan Archer who attended the trip to Europe last spring. “I loved the coast of Portugal. The waters were almost tropical looking and we had some really nice sunny days.”

The group varied widely in ages and personalities creating numerous opportunities for new connections between students.

“This year there were a couple kids who didn’t have friends going on the trip. I don’t know if I would have been brave enough to go on an overseas trip as a freshman without one of my friends but it was great seeing kids make new friends in the group,” said Greaney.

“We had a lot of shy kids and it was great to see their growth and increased confidencea through meeting those other kids and spending time with them,” said Spear.

The tour began in Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, before the group traveled to Coimbra, a city located in the center of the country. The students also visited smaller towns such as

Óbidos, Cascais, and Sintra, which they enjoyed just as much if not more than the larger cities.

“I thought it was super interesting to see all the historic buildings and landmarks. I also really enjoyed the people I was on the trip with. Mrs. Greaney and Spear are really such special people that made the trip what it was. We were there with two other groups from Canada and we became close friends with them as well,” said senior Jack Turpen.

The students discuss exploring markets, tasting new foods, viewing new sights, and making new connections as their main sources for enjoyment.

Looking forward, Spear and Greaney are continuing the tradition and hope to release information for the Spring Break trip of 2026 soon.

Memorial fund to support young pilots

By

Sisters High School aviation students have a new source of financial support thanks to a new fund established recently by the Redmond Masonic Lodge #154 and the John T. Turner Family of Sisters.

According to the application information on the SistersGRO website, the John Turner Memorial Aviation Scholarship is designed to honor the enduring legacy of Colonel John T. Turner, a beloved aviator whose passion for flight and commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on the

aviation and Sisters community. This scholarship aims to support and inspire aspiring pilots who share Colonel Turner’s dedication to aviation, integrity, and love for flying.

Turner lived a very full and eventful life, joining the military at age 17, and serving during World War II with the 378th Bombardment Group in England. He was shot down twice over France but survived and transferred to the U.S. Army after the war and remained active until 1975, retiring as a colonel. He lived another 49 years and died in 2024 at age 99.

Science Club event to support school programs

The community is invited to join the Sisters Science Club to learn about existing science programming in the Sisters School District, support the growth of science programming, and connect with other science lovers in town at a fundraising event at FivePine Lodge & Conference Center on Sunday, April 27, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Participants will hear from the science teachers and students who benefit from extracurricular science-based activities and

SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR

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 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.

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 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 ith Dementia Sisters

Care Par tner suppor t group. 2nd & 4th Weds 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Senior Living. 541- 647- 0052

Mili tary Parent s of Sisters Meetings are held quarter ly; please c all 5 41-388 -9 013.

Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 5 41-5 49 -6 469.

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

Sisters School District Board of Directors O ne Wednesday m onthly, Sisters School District Administr ation Building. See schedule at www.ssd 6. org. 5 41-5 49 -8 521 x5 002.

learn how a donation to the Sisters Science Club ensures the ongoing success of these programs.

Funds will be raised for science-related education for all three schools in the Sisters School District focusing on field trips, teacher enrichment, and equipment.

Teachers in the district have presented field trip proposals to the LIGO Hanford Observatory, Fred Hutchison Cancer Research

CIT Y & PARKS

Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters Cit y Hall 541- 549- 6022

Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Dire ctor s 2nd & 4th Tues., 4 p.m., C of f ield Center. 5 41-5 49 -2091. Sisters Pl anning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:3 0 p.m., Siste rs City Hall. 5 41-5 49 -6 022.

FIRE & POLICE

PHOTO BY JACK TURPEN

Charlie Kanzig Correspondent

Sisters celebrates with annual Easter Egg hunt

By Cody Rheault Correspondent

It was a sunny day with a chilling wind when volunteers with the Sisters Camp Sherman Fire and Ambulance Association, the Fire Corps, and Cloverdale Fire Department spent Sunday morning placing 6,000 candy-laden plastic eggs throughout Creekside Park and Campground. Children from birth to 11 years old were invited to participate in the free event.

At the blare of the siren from fire engine 721 and a flurry of children wearing bunny ears toting colorful buckets, the 49th annual Easter Egg Hunt was underway. Hosted by the The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire and Ambulance Association the event draws locals and visitors from all over Central Oregon. An estimated 400 children participated this year.

For a lucky few, tickets to a prize table were hidden in 12 golden eggs laid throughout the area. Prizes ranged from matchbox cars to kites to wiffle ball and bat sets. The flurry lasted mere minutes followed by diligent, yet frantic, cracking and inspection for that magical golden egg.

For Ashley Storns and her

two kids, Aliyah age 5, and Rylan age 10, the Easter Egg hunt is a yearly tradition.

“We come every year and haven’t missed one since the kids were born,” she said. Aliyah, her daughter, wore a shimmering red dress and held a Bluey themed bucket. Her excitement for a photo with the Easter Bunny was only trumped by her glee for the hunt.

From Bend, Bill and

I am deeply honored by all my clients who have trusted me to guide them through multiple real estate transactions over the years. Based on my 20+ years of experience in Sisters and Black Butte Ranch real estate, I offer insight, input, and skills — combined with the outstanding Stellar Realty NW support services. It’s everything you need for successful real estate transactions.

“We come to Sisters often and we love it here,” Megan said. Nora, wearing a colorfully patterned dress and a smile on her face toted her plush basket to their next stop while visiting Sisters, High Camp Taphouse.

“That’s one of our go-tos when we’re up here,” Bill said.

The annual event first started in 1978 at the Creekside Park and Campground. While volunteers come and go, a fixture of the local scene is none other than the Easter Bunny himself. Spurge Cochran first donned the fuzzy garb in 1978 and has remained the go-to mascot ever since. That day in 1978 was one with a first of many for him. His first child was born that day.

“My wife at the time leaned down to take a picture of me in costume, and right then, right here, her water broke,” he says. “My daughter was born that night,

and I’ve been doing this ever since.”

Kids ate candy, stood in line for photos with the Easter Bunny, got tours of fire engines and ambulances, and loved on the droopy ears of Winston, Deputy Chief Tim Craig’s basset hound dog.

“Does he help with the fires?” one kid asked. “No,” Craig said. “He mostly just lays in the hall and waits to be loved on.”

Monica Matthews is the Activity Director for Sisters Camp Sherman Fire and Ambulance Association and led this year’s charge for the event. She coordinated volunteers and overlooked the prize booth. For her, the event is more than just a festivity.

“We do it for the community. We like to show people that we support them, and that we love our kids,” she said. “More than anything, I like to see the kids cheerful and happy.”

Susan Bird, Broker 541-410-5644 Susan@SusanBirdRealEstate.com

Megan brought their young daughter Nora for her first Easter Egg hunt.

Families make an annual tradition of the Sisters Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire and Ambulance Association.

PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT

SAA’s Fourth Friday Artwalk reflects nature

By Helen Schmidling Correspondent

Stroll through the galleries of Sisters this week during the Fourth Friday Artwalk from 4 to 7 p.m., sponsored by Sisters Arts Association. Meet up with family and friends. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening!

Sisters Gallery & Frame welcomes printmaker Denise Kester and ceramic artist Mary Moore. Kester’s “Drawing on the Dream” includes original artwork, books, note cards, reproductions, and figurines. She specializes in monoprint and monotype viscosity printing, as well as mixed media, drawing, and painting. Moore’s new whimsical ceramic sculptures have human or animal heads attached to bodies primly posed on pedestals. On Thursday, April 24, Kester will be featured in a special “Meet the Author” event at 6:30 p.m., joined by singer and songwriter Kathy Marshall. Seating is limited due to the size of the venue, and a suggested donation

of $5 will be given to the Kiwanis Food Bank.

The Flying Horse Gallery features a group exhibit, “Into the Woods,” with more than 10 guest artists showing their love for the forest, the magical world hidden in the trees, and all things made of wood. Works range from oil paintings and watercolors to one-of-a-kind wood-crafted items. Look for twisted pine, walnut weavings, paintings of druid dreams and secret creatures peeking out from a Juniper. As always, there are works by resident artists Brad Earl and Sloane Earl.

The Campbell Gallery continues to display the work of Karen Z. Ellis, a retrospective called “(De) Signs of Spring,” selected early and recent pieces celebrating rhythms and patterns of nature dancing through the seasons, watermedia and soft pastel works, and original hand-pulled prints, including intaglio and monotype.

The Rickards Gallery is “Bursting into Bloom with Colors of the Northwest,” a spring art showcase featuring work by Dan Rickards

and friends. From delicate blossoms to sweeping vistas, each piece captures renewal, energy, and the stunning hues of our region.

Wildflower Studio features oil paintings by John Runnels and ceramics by Hunter Teig. Runnels’ brush, palette knife and rich colorful oils express his aspenfilled landscapes. Teig’s pottery includes mugs, cups, and bowls with dripped and blended glazes.

Hood Avenue Art features landscapes by Anne Gibson and Patricia FreemanMartin. Gibson layers, scrapes, glazes, and adds marks with various media and tools to depict a special place. FreemanMartin shares her impressions of the local landscape using symbolic and emotional colors and pattern.

Makin’ it Local welcomes glass artist Cheryl Chapman of Silly Dog Art Glass and Sisters’ own Outlaw Jazz

Combo for an evening of art and music. Chapman paints glass enamels onto the back of a sheet of clear glass, and then layers another piece of glass behind the enameled piece before fusing the two pieces together. The painting is done in stages, with each stage, including creation of a bowl or other shape, requiring separate firing in a kiln.

Stitchin’ Post hosts the Journeys Art Quilters’ annual exhibit, “Ten Artists, Ten Voices.” Using a variety of design elements, these masterpieces feature hand-dyed fabrics, intricate piecing and innovative techniques that express individual creativity. It is a journey of sharing, learning, and intentional support for each artist among the group that includes Jean Wells Keenan, June Jaeger, Judy Beaver, Jan Tetzlaff, Donna Rice, Helen Brisson, Betty Gientke, Marion Shimoda, Martha Sanders, and Mary Stiewig.

Toriizaka Art owners are away, but the gallery,

featuring contemporary Asian art and works by local artists in two- and threedimensions, can be accessed through Sisters Gallery & Frame.

One more thing, The Barn will be hosting a special meet-and-greet reception for Jacob Norris, a celebrated Central Oregon artist known for captivating works that blend elements of nature with abstract expressionism. Gallery maps are available at each gallery and online at www.sistersarts association.org, where you can find out more about this month’s Artwalk and join the Arts Association as a contributing member, artist, or local business.

Enter our QuickDraw to win one of two $50 gift certificates, good at any participating gallery, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Stellar Realty Northwest. Visitors may sign up once per gallery, and winners will be notified by phone and email, so it is important that all entries be complete.

June Jaeger’s masterful quilt at Stitchin’ Post.

PHOTO PROVIDED

“A Raven’s Dream” by Denise Kester at Sisters Gallery & Frame.

PHOTO PROVIDED

“Lupine in Bloom“ by Dan Rickards at The Rickards Gallery.

PHOTO PROVIDED

“Listen-the Cranes Call” by Anne Gibson at Hood Avenue Art.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Local kids recommend phone and screen limits

By T. Lee Brown Correspondent

Sisters fifth grader Ella Kaden is “kind of glad, actually” that she doesn’t have a smartphone. Twelve-year-old Riley Davis is happy that her parents set up time limits on her iPhone. What’s happening here?

“They instinctually know that it doesn’t feel right to be on a screen all the time,” explained Dr. Wendy Laakmann, a child psychologist from Bend. She was part of a panel discussion at Sisters Elementary School (SES), where a new edition of the movie “Screenagers” was shown last week.

“Screenagers: Elementary School Edition” focuses on younger kids and how phones, tablets, and video games affect them and their families.

A mom herself, Laakmann has been working with kids and families for 25 years.

“I have seen a huge shift in how children talk about technology and what it feels like for them,” she said. “They talk about wanting limits; they’ll admit that to me, but they don’t want me to tell their parents.”

This nugget of wisdom was among many to be gathered at the SES event, where experienced adults who’ve learned about kids and tech graced the stage. Well Wired organization co-founder Ami Formica was among them, bubbling with information and ideas about how families can take action (see related article, page 7)

The kids themselves had plenty to say afterward. “There was a time when I really wished I had a phone,” admitted 11-year-old Kaden. “But now, when I think about it, I’m really thankful that I don’t.”

She’s noticed that while students aren’t allowed to be on phones in class at SES, on the school bus “they’re just

watching YouTube or whatever, and they’re not really interacting with the person next to them.”

As for the movie? It was “really inspiring and really true, and like it shows that phones suck you in,” Kaden assessed.

She observed that when kids are on digital devices, “it’s making other things around them less important. They don’t know what else to do.”

Some kids “even have meltdowns” without constant access to devices.

What might be better?

“You should be outside, playing with friends, reading a good book,” Kaden said.

Kaden’s parents have talked with her over the years about how technology really works. She said this knowledge will help once she’s older and gets a phone.

“I don’t want social media anyway,” she stated.

Panelist Clay Warburton is a fourth-grade teacher at SES who’s spearheaded an annual Screen-Free Week in his class for 20 years. He said, “I get to see kids and families work through these issues on a daily basis, see the choices that they make and how those choices affect kids’ learning in the classroom.

“Mostly the kids are ten years old. Their eyes are wide open as they watch their middle school and high school brothers and sisters absolutely struggle with this.

“A fourth grader might say, ‘My brother used to play with me ’til he got his phone.’” Warburton said, “We hear lots of those stories.”

Panelist Natalie Houston is a licensed professional counselor of 16 years and a mom with children ages 7, 9, 17, and 19. “We kind of have a scientific experiment happening in our house with two groups of kids,” she said with a laugh, “which I’ve learned a lot from.”

In her counseling practice, she’s seen conflict about screens escalate.

“As these devices and these apps, programs, games, have gotten more persuasive and pulled kids in more and more, the strain on family relationships has gotten really intense.”

More Gen Z clients now come to Houston, in their 20s, “reflecting on their tech use in their teen and middle school years.” Some lament the loss of their childhood and wish they had been more protected.

“I had somebody in their early twenties recently who was in my office sobbing about her inability to get off her phone and launch her career,” Houston said.

Compared to most other states, youth in Oregon experience more depression, substance abuse disorder (addiction), emotional disturbance, and serious thoughts of suicide while lacking adequate mental health care. Oregon ranked No. 49 in the nation, according to Mental Health America’s 2024 report.

New research links device use with troubling mental health outcomes for children and teens. Kids who play violent video games show more aggressive behavior at school, for example. Brain scans now show that kids’ physical brains started growing differently once smartphones and similar devices were introduced.

Learning about these issues, Sisters Middle School sixth-grader Davis appreciates limits on her phone.

“I’m really happy because instead of automatically going on a game, I can stop and think, ‘Do I really need this? Do I really want to play a game instead of being outside or something?’”

The movie, she said, “helped make me aware of how much some people spend on their screens. It kind of motivates me to not

spend so much time on my screen.

“I don’t want to be the reason they have to make one of those movies,” she added.

Citizens for Community (C4C) co-presented the event. Executive Director Kellen Klein was the evening’s MC; he formerly worked at a nonprofit that encourages healthier use of technology. Klein joked about overusing his own

phone, like many adults.

“Adults say that they’re ‘texting’ people,’” Kaden said, using air quotes. “My mom sometimes texts people, but then she’ll get on Instagram. And I’ll say, ‘Mom, why are you always on Instagram?’”

“It would help adults to have time limits on their apps,” fellow student Davis advised. “Like they might think, ‘I could be playing with my kids right now.’”

Sisters students Ella Kaden (left) and Riley Davis showed a thoughtful approach to phone and device use at a recent Screenagers event.

PHOTO BY T. LEE BROWN

Families balance phones and screens with real life

By T. Lee Brown Correspondent

Our society has spent over 15 years with smartphone and social media problems. Now, plenty of information and research is flowing (see related article, this issue). More and more parents and educators are taking action to reduce digital distraction, addiction, and mental health issues.

Kids, too, are looking for limits. How to begin? Here are a few options:

Join up with Well Wired Parents, kids, and schools around Central Oregon are collaborating with local organization Well Wired to learn more, meet other concerned families and help their kids thrive.

Founded by Bend parents

Ami Formica and Brooke Mues, the group advocates for healthy tech use. They aim to “change the status quo and foster a new generation of thriving kids who spend more time outside and socializing with their friends (in person!) and less time on addictive devices and apps.” Learn more at wellwired.org.

Rediscover the natural world

Time outdoors in nature reduces stress for people of all ages and helps kids explore, handle their emotions, and grow naturally in terms of brain development. Even a five-minute “sit spot” can be rewarding: sit outside without talking. Listen to birds, notice the sky, touch plants and trees, then talk or write about the experience for a few minutes.

Set aside time for real life

Join in Screen-Free Week, either with Sisters Elementary School or by synching up with the national event (screenfree.org).

“I know the kids in my class that find the biggest levels of success, they get their families to buy in with them,” said SES teacher Clay

Warburton. “Parents can encourage kids, your friends and their friends, to do it. It’s a good reset.”

Taking one day per week without devices can be helpful, too. Search on the terms Digital Shabbat, Digital Day Off, Digital Sabbath, and 24/6 for details.

Sign the Healthy Tech Pledge

Over 600 Central Oregon families have signed the Healthy Tech Pledge at wellwired.org. Pledgers promise: 1) to encourage real-life activities and interactions for their kids; 2) basic phones or watches—no standard smartphones—until high school; and 3) no social media until age 16. The more people sign up, the easier it is for kids and their families to hold off on full smartphone immersion.

Go analog

Phones exert a strong pull partly because we use them for practical things like listening to music and setting alarm clocks. Then we get sucked into an app or texting. Search out physical clocks, kitchen timers, CD players, and turntables. Set out paper and pen for taking notes and listing things you want to take care of next time you get online. Buy an affordable mini-flashlight at Ace or Bi-Mart. Hit the thrift stores, too.

Watch and listen

How do these technologies get us hooked? What are they doing to our brains and our kids?

Learn by viewing the new elementary school edition of “Screenagers,” also appropriate for middle school students, which will be shown two more times in Central Oregon this spring, May 13 and 21 (wellwired.org/events).

Stream “The Social Dilemma” (Netflix). Listen to interviews with Dr. Jonathan Haidt or Tristan Harris, a former Apple and Google employee who realized how messed up tech was getting.

Harris left to found the organization Center for Humane Technology (humanetech. com).

Get other families interested

Natalie Houston, a mom in Bend, listened to a podcast episode about kids living real life instead of being buried in phones, tablets and video games. She sent the link to the parents in her neighborhood, then asked: when their kids are out playing, could there be no screens or devices, no matter whose house the kids visit?

“Every single one said yes and thank you,” Houston declared. The podcast: Dr. Becky’s “Good Inside,” episode 145, released March 25, 2024.

Set limits

Though kids sometimes figure out hacks and workarounds, parents can use insystem tools and third-party apps to set up time limits for apps, cut off phone usage after 8 p.m. and help kids get adequate sleep. Other options include using lock boxes for phones during dinner or other family time, turning off phones while parents and kids are in the car together and

unplugging the household’s modem/wi-fi router every night, stashing the cord away. If a kid throws a fit or hacks around limits, stand firm; avoid giving in to pleas for “five more minutes.”

Carry a bag of tricks

Planning ahead helps parents and caregivers keep kids interested and entertained. Crayons, pencils, paper, books, and small toys can be kept in the car, a purse, or backpack. Houston, who has two younger children, carries a small bag everywhere.

“I’ve got Yahtzee, it’s so old-school,” she said. “I have tiny Farkle, I have travel games — this is for restaurants. We play with them while we’re waiting, so we can teach them how to wait, and how to enjoy our time together.”

Try the Brick

First you set up your Brick, a square magnetic chunk, to block various apps and websites on your iPhone. Stick the magnet on your fridge. To activate it? Walk over to the Brick and tap it with the phone. Now your phone can only access things you’ve chosen to keep using—until you tap the Brick again.

The physicality of this action helps adults with their tech use. It also provides a clear message to kids, who can see that the parent is managing their phone with intention.

“Anything where you’re modeling a limit is so important,” Amy Formica explained. See getbrick.app. Get a fake landline

Some households buy a special VoIP phone that works similarly to a landline phone. Kids can make and receive phone calls just like in the olden days. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol.

Read

Dr. Jonathan Haidt’s book “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” has inspired thousands.

“Dopamine Nation” by Anna Lembke and “Who’s Raising the Kids?” by Susan Linn come highly recommended. For those interested in a weighty sociopolitical doorstop, there’s always “The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power,” by Shoshana Zuboff.

Bestselling author to visit Sisters

Bestselling author of “The Music of Bees,” Eileen Garvin will celebrate the paperback release of her novel, “Crow Talk, ”with a reading and signing at Paulina Springs Books. The event is set for Wednesday, April 30, at 6:30 p.m.

“Crow Talk” is a moving story of hope, healing, and unexpected friendship set amidst the wild natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Frankie O’Neill and Anne Ryan would seem to have nothing in common. Frankie is a lonely ornithologist struggling to salvage her dissertation on the spotted owl following a rift with her advisor. Anne is an Irish musician far from home and family, raising her five-yearold son, Aiden, who refuses to speak.

At Beauty Bay, a community of summer homes nestled on the shores of June Lake, in the remote foothills of Mount Adams, it’s off-season with most houses shuttered for the fall. But Frankie, adrift, returns to the rundown caretaker’s cottage that has been in the hardworking O’Neill family for generations—a beloved place and a constant reminder of the family she has lost. And Anne, in the wake of a tragedy that has disrupted her career and silenced her music, has fled to the neighboring house, a showy summer home owned by her husband’s wealthy family.

When Frankie finds an injured baby crow in the forest, little does she realize that the charming bird will bring all three lost souls — Frankie, Anne, and Aiden — together on a journey toward hope, healing, and rediscovering joy. “Crow Talk” is an achingly beautiful story of love, grief, friendship, and the healing power of nature in the darkest of times.

Born and raised in eastern Washington, Eileen Garvin lives in Hood River, Oregon. Her novels, “The Music of Bees” and “Crow Talk,” are national bestsellers. “The Music of Bees” was named a Good Morning America Buzz Pick, a Good Housekeeping Book club Pick, a People Magazine Best

Eileen

bestselling author.

New Book, an IndieNext Pick, a Library Reads Pick, a Christian Science Monitor Pick, a Washington Post Best Summer Reads, and named a Most Anticipated Book of 2021 by BookRiot, Bookish, Nerd Daily, The Tempest, Midwestness, and others. Eileen’s memoir, “How to be a Sister,” was named an Indie Next by IndieBound, a Target Book of the Month, and a Kindle Book of the Month. Her essays have appeared with Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books, The Oregonian, PsychologyToday.com, and Creative Non-Fiction Magazine.

Garvin shares her backyard with four chickens, wild birds of all kinds, and about 120,000 honeybees.

Drummer tapped for premier arts camp

Frankie Borla, 15, of Sisters, will attend Interlochen Arts Camp, the nation’s premier summer arts program for aspiring artists in grades 3-12, this summer. Borla, the son of Erin and Chris Borla, will study Jazz Improvisation at Interlochen.

Borla, a freshman at Sisters High School has played drums for the past 10 years. He is passionate about jazz music and has performed with the Sisters High School Jazz Band, Outlaw Jazz Combo, and at the University of Oregon Jazz Improvisation Camp.

Artistic students ages 8-18 from around the world convene at Interlochen to expand their capacity in music, theatre, dance, creative writing, visual arts, interdisciplinary arts, and film. Through daily classes and frequent performance opportunities, Interlochen students explore the full breadth of the arts, pursue creative breakthroughs, and forge lifelong cross-cultural friendships. Immersed in a multidisciplinary artistic environment, young creatives find reflection, rejuvenation, and inspiration on Interlochen’s pristine, 1,200-acre wooded campus.

“We are excited to welcome students to the 98th season of Interlochen Arts Camp,” said Trey Devey, president of Interlochen. “It is truly thrilling to witness the remarkable growth that

takes place at Interlochen as students discover their potential, take their talent to the next level, and share what they’ve learned with their family and friends.”

Founded in 1928, Interlochen Arts Camp has been at the forefront of arts education for nearly a century. The Camp’s global alumni community encompasses creative leaders in the arts and many other fields, including singers Norah Jones, Josh Groban, and Rufus Wainwright; Martha Graham Dance Company Artistic Director Janet Eilber; painter Laura Owens; New York Times theatre critic Jesse Green; Google co-founder Larry Page; Pulitzer Prizewinning poet Mary Oliver; Olympic ice dancer Naomi Lang Strong; actor Anthony Rapp; and cartoonist Cathy Guisewite, among many others. Approximately 13 percent of the nation’s professional orchestra musicians have roots at Interlochen, and alumni of Interlochen’s programs have been awarded more than 145 Grammy Awards.

In addition to hundreds of performances and presentations by young artists, Interlochen brings leading artists to its northern Michigan campus each summer as part of the Interlochen Arts Festival. Recent guests

include Reba McEntire, Jewel, Norah Jones, Diana Ross, Chick Corea, The Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Lady Antebellum, Harry Connick Jr., and many more. Interlochen Arts Camp is the nation’s premier multidisciplinary summer arts program, where emerging artists transform passion and potential into purpose. Guided by internationally renowned artists, campers ages 8 to 18 study music, theatre, dance, visual arts, creative writing, interdisciplinary arts, and film in a glorious, natural setting with like-minded peers. Learn more at camp.inter lochen.org. Follow Interlochen on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube at @interlochenarts.

Are you seeking to find a small and welcoming f aith community?

Please join us for our traditional Christ-centered worship service at service 10

Garvin,

Frank Borla will study Jazz Improvisation at a prestigious arts camp this summer.

PHOTO PROVIDED

City to plant trees for Arbor Day

This Arbor Day, Friday, April 25, the City of Sisters will host a community tree planting event from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

The event will kick off at Creekside Park, 504 S. Locust St., with a brief introduction and a tree planting demonstration. Next, city staff and attendees will walk to an area southeast of the new roundabout at Locust and Highway 20 to plant 35 ponderosa seedlings and six larch seedings.

All are welcome to join. Refreshments will be provided.

The City of Sisters has been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a designated Tree City USA for its 18th year.

Since 2007, the City has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to preserving and efficiently managing our urban forest by:

• Maintaining the Urban Forestry Board.

• Having a community tree ordinance.

• The creation and adoption of the Urban Forest Management Plan.

• Spending at least $2 per capita on its urban forestry; and

• Observing Arbor Day with an annual tree planting event and reciting the official Arbor Day proclamation.

For more information, contact Emme Shoup, associate planner, at 541-3235216 or eshoup@ci.sisters. or.us. This Arbor Day project is supported in part with grant funding from Oregon Community Trees, which helped the City purchase seedlings, gloves, shovels, and giveaway tote bags.

Could condominiums increase affordability?

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

Quite a few Oregon developers, nonprofits, and legislators support creating condominiums of five or more units to help reduce the lack of affordable housing –including in Sisters.

Developers and advocates argue that current law disincentivizes condo construction.

Oregon’s Construction Defect Liability (CDL) laws are considered the most restrictive due to a longer claim time frame than in most other states. A bill has been introduced to address this and other related concerns. After the current legislative recess, the bill may soon come to Oregon’s House floor for a vote.

House Bill 3746, will reduce the time frame in which an owner or Home Owner Associations or Community Associations (HOAs or CAs) can file suits against a developer for defects in construction.

HB 3746 modifies Oregon’s CDL law by reducing the current 10-year window to seven years (it was first reduced to six years but now is seven by amendments) and provides several regulations and limitations under which owners may file liability claims against a developer or

builder.

Bill status, testimony, etc., may be found at https:// olis.oregonlegislature.gov; search on HB 3746, click on “Text” then “Introduced” (original bill) or the recent “Amendments” only.

The purpose of HB 3746, per supporters, condominiums provide an entry opportunity for homeownership at a price point affordable to a median family income per the National Association of Realtors. There was a 92 percent decline from 2006 to 2023 in construction of buildings having more than four units for sale after the law had been changed to increase the defect claim time frame to 10 years.

This long time frame is considered a disincentive to developers due to the high expense of maintaining a decade of liability insurance. HB 3746 establishes a means for a developer to remedy a defect for the claimant without going through litigation and requires home owners to regularly conduct inspections for common defects to find problems early.

Supporters of HB 3746 include the League of Oregon Cities (LOC), the Metropolitan Mayor’s Consortium, seven Habitat for Humanity organizations in Oregon including the State’s, Bend-Redmond’s,

and Sisters’, nine cities including locally Bend and Madras, some developers including Hayden Homes of Bend, Bend Chamber of Commerce, and various realtors and individuals.

As of April 19, there were 82 testimonies (48 in support and 34 in opposition). The opposed note the bill requires a super majority approval by an HOA or CA to file a defect claim (a single member can negate the approval) and gives the developer the “right to remedy,” which might result in reducing the window of time the owner(s) have to file a claim. Most construction deficiencies reported in Oregon are due to poor workmanship causing water intrusion, structural cracks, and/or roofing deficiencies which usually take years to identify and occur mostly in multi-family and condo developments (Building Envelope Consultants, info@

evolutionarchitecture.net).

Relative to HB 3746 mitigating the lack of affordable entry level home buying, although condos are about 38 percent less than the cost of a single-family home, the median sale price of a condo unit in Oregon is $380,000. Those in opposition note that affordability requires some form of subsidy to the builder and/or buyer. Some feel the bill reduces accountability for defective construction and would burden revenue challenged owner(s) with added inspection expenses and possible legal fees.

The opposing testimonies came from the Oregon Community Associations Institute (CAI) - Central Oregon Regional Chapter (CORC), and CAI’s Legislative Action Committee (LAC), various HOA management, legal, lending, insuring, and building inspection firms, and individuals.

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/Parade and proceed to fill out the application. Line-up will go out around first of June.

SE S Kindergar ten Roundup

Sisters Elementar y School (SES) will hold their annual Kindergarten Roundup preregistration on Friday, May 2, in the school g ymnasium, for one hour beginning at either 9 or 11 a.m. Students will participate in a teacher-led activit y while parent s are involved in a parent orientation. Sign up by contacting the elementar y school at 541-549-8981. Children who will be five years old on or before September 1 are eligible for the 2025-26 school year. Enrollment forms may be picked up at the SES o ce between 9 a .m. and 2 p.m. Forms need to be completed and returned to the school o ce on May 2 at the time of the scheduled appointment e following documents are required to register : enrollment packet; copy of birth certificate; immunization records; proof of address . Students will not be registered until all forms are in.

Sisters Beekeepers Mee t Plea se join area beekeepers for a monthly social gathering at e Barn on ursday, April 24 at 5 p.m. All beekeepers and wanabees welcome. Contact Clyde for more information at 458-20 6-8470

Arbor Day Celebration

e Cit y of Sisters invites the communit y to a tree planting adjacent to the new sidewalk/ roundabout near Creek side Park on Friday, April 25, f rom 10 to 11:30 a .m. Activities , snack s, and swag for both children and adults . Help plant a tree or come to just learn about trees

Volunteer at Sisters Habitat for Humanity

Help Habit at build hope and homes in Sisters, connect with new people, make f riends, and make a di erence in our communit y. Volunteer today! Learn more at sistershabitat.org/ volunteer or call 541-549-1193.

Announce Celebrations! Sisters community birth, engagement, wedding , and milestone anniversar y notices from May run at no charge on this Announcements page.

THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

Thursday, April 24

Let’s Talk Dementia: Clear & Compassionate Guide Class

Thursday, April 24

100 WWC-Sisters

Membership Meeting

Friday, April 25

Arbor Day Celebration

Saturday, April 26

Star Par ty

Sunday, April 27

Sisters Science Club

Education Fundraiser

Friday, May 2 Kindergarten Roundup

Care & Stewardship: Art & Ecolog y Stewarding the Oregon Coastline

Join the Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts and Agriculture for the first lecture in the 2025 Lecture Series on ursday, April 24, f rom 4 to 6 p.m. Speakers include Jane Bacchieri and Chanel Hason of the Elakha Alliance in conversation with Josie Iselin. is event is f ree and open to the public . e event will be held in Pine Meadow Ranch’s Classroom, 684 67 ree Creek s Rd . Registration is required at https:// roundhousefoundation.org/ events/. For more info call 5419 04- 070 0 or email inquiries@ roundhousefoundation.org

Science Education Fundraiser

e Sisters Science Club will hold a Science Education Fundraiser on Sunday, April 27, f rom 2 to 5 p.m. at FivePine Lodge & Conference Center, 1021 E Desperado Trail. Learn about what’s happening with science in our schools . Funds raised will be for science-related field trips , science teacher conferences, and updated science equipment Hors d’oeuvres & drinks provided. Reser vations at Eventbrite on the SSC website: www.sistersscienceclub.org.

ose unable to attend may donate through the website. For more info, call/text 541-706 -1838.

Weekly Food Pantry

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.

Sisters Museum Opens New Exhibit

e Sisters Museum is proud to announce that their newest exhibit, “Ranching and Farming Around Sisters,” has opened. E arly visitors have called it “informative” and “ fascinating.” It traces properties in the area back to the 180 0s with maps, photos , artif acts , and stories to share. Stop by the Museum at 151 N . Spruce on a Friday or Saturday f rom 10 a .m. to 4 p.m., to view the exhibit.

Let’s Talk Dementia: Clear & Compassionate Guide Class Living Well With Dementia Sisters presents “Let’s Talk Dementia,” a series of sessions for care partners and families of those diagnosed with dementia. Feel f ree to join for all monthly sessions throughout 2025 or just one. On ursday, April 24, f rom 10:30 to 11:30 a .m., at Sisters Librar y, the topic is “Creating a Roadmap: Making Choices With Confidence.” RSVP online at www.LWWDS .com. Questions: call 541-588-0547 or email Debbi@LW WDS.com.

Family Fun Bingo Night

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration Family Fun Bingo Night at 5 p.m. on Friday, April 25 . ree cards for each of 10 games for $20. Food available for purchase. 50/50 Win/Win Ra e Option ticket s are $2 each or 6 for $10 . Ra e proceeds will be split half to the winner and half to Habit at for Humanit y in honor of Jan Baldwin’s 32 years of ser vice! Great Bingo prizes supporting local merchants awarded at the end of each game. Fun for all ages!

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

SHS Class of 2025

Fundraising Online Auc tion

Join a community-wide online auction to raise f unds for the SHS Class of 2025 graduation field trip and festivities! Jump online April 21–24 to bid on some incredible items. If you prefer not to bid, there is also a place to donate on the same site. https://bit.ly/SHS -2025-auction.

Sisters Careg iver Support

A f acilitated support group for caregivers of those with chronic or life-shor tening diseases meets 10 :30 to 11:30 a .m. on the third Wednesday of ever y month at Sisters Episcopal Church of e Transfiguration, 121 Brook s Camp Rd . For more information, please call 503-616 -8712.

10 0 Women Who Care –Sisters Meeting ree local nonprofits — M Per fectly, Council on Aging of Central Oregon (Meals on Wheels), and Heart of Oregon Corps YouthBuild — have been nominated for funding by 100 Women Who Care-Sisters . One will be chosen for funding at the next membership meeting , set for ursday, April 24, at noon. 10 0W WC-Sisters is accepting membership applications , which must be received by Wednesday, April 23 to attend. For more information, email 10 0w wc.Sisters@gmail.com or call/text 541-912-0750.

Star Par ty

Join Sisters A stronomy Club for the first star part y of the 2025 season on Saturday, April 26 , at 8:30 p.m. e event will be held at the west end of the south parking lot of Sisters High School. Club members will be on hand with telescopes to share their knowledge and views of the sky with attendees . is night under the stars is f ree and all are invited . Since this activit y requires clear skies, it will be cancelled if inclement weather interferes. Use your judgement

STARS Seeks Volunteers to Transpor t Patients

Help Sisters Countr y residents get to nonemergency medical appointments in Sisters , Redmond, and Bend . Attend a free t wo-hour training. Emails from STARS dispatchers allow you to accept dates and times that work for your schedule, and a mileage reimbursement is included. More at www.starsride org and volunteer to keep Sisters healthy one ride at a time.

A Celebration of Life for Shawna Mitchell Hoeghs will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 25, at Journey Church, Redmond, Oregon.

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

TURTLE

Turtle prefers a calm and peaceful presence when people come in to say hello. She is a loving little lady once she begins to feel comfor table. She loves to purr and make biscuit s while getting some nice pets!

— SPONSORED BY — PET OF THE WEEK Humane Societ y of Central Oregon 541-382-3537

ALLAN GODSIFF SHEARING 541-549-2202

SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES

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

Photo SHS Pageant shows Outlaw spirit

By Olivia Nieto Correspondent

The SHS Pageant is an annual event and fundraiser for FAN, Family Access Network, involving the dedication of students, teachers, and community members alike. Last Saturday evening the event spanned over three hours, and senior students elected for their involvement and Outlaw spirit throughout the years displayed their hard work and relentless effort to put the performance together.

The night began with a trailer created by students describing the meaning of the pageant.

“The SHS Pageant has always been something where students and the community can come together and feel like they’re part of something big,” said one of four student coordinators, Grace Fendall.

“This work really shows the collaboration between the dance studio, Outlaw Media, leadership, ASG, the art programs, they all help out with the pageant. It’s a really good way to show community spirit,” says student coordinator Conlan Archer.

Following the video, SHS staff coordinator Jami Lyn Weber led the pause.

“Our first pageant coming out of the pandemic we started a tradition we now like to call the pause…I learned this year that it takes two seconds for a negative memory to imprint on your brain. It takes 14 seconds for a good memory to imprint and stay with you. So we want to give you 14 seconds to take this in, smile at the people around you and smile at the special people on stage in front of you.”

The rest of the evening showcased pageant participant dances, videos, talents, and a Q&A session to close

the night off. The auditorium regularly erupted in applause as family and friends showed their support.

As the judges deliberated at the end of the show, each pageant participant was given a rose to give to a person that had shown them support over the years. This year’s participants also wrote letters to accompany the roses which were recorded and played over the speakers as they found family and friends in the audience.

The evening closed off with two awards being given.

The Congeniality Award was given to two pageant participants who showed unwavering support and encouragement throughout the SHS Pageant process, and

presented to Ella Eby and Spencer Tisdel.

Finally,

SISTERS-AREA Events & Entertainment

WEDNESDAY • APRIL 23

Best Western Ponderosa Lodge Explore the Art of Wheat Watch Straw Masters spin straw, make wheat paper, demonstrate straw applique techniques, and showcase their wheat straw work. Learn to plait wheat straw. Drop in 4:30-7 p.m. Free event for all ages. Info: wheatweaver12@gmail.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 • APRIL 24

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Lynne Spriggs O’Connor presents "Elk Love: A Montana Memoir," 6:30 p.m. More info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Flying Horse Gallery Collage Your Story An inclusive night of storytelling and collaging featuring author Joanie Lindenmeyer. Presented by Out Central Oregon. 6-8 p.m. $38. Tickets and info: https://www.flyinghorsegallery.com/events.

Suttle Lodge Fireside Concert Series: Finom

6 to 8 p.m. Doors at 5:30. Inside The Skip Bar & Restaurant. Tickets, $10, at www.bendticket.com.

FRIDAY • APRIL 25

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Joanie Lindenmeyer will read from three recent books and discuss the continual theme of the 3 C’s: Courage, Confidence and Collaboration. 10 a.m. More info: www.PaulinaSpringsBooks.com.

Makin’ it Local "Takin' The Stage" Art Walk & Live Music

4 to 7 p.m. Enjoy Oregon sparkling wine from Sokol Blosser, light hors d'oeuvres, Deschutes Brewery IPA, our “famous” gingersnap cookies, live music from the Outlaw Jazz Combo, plus an artist showcase featuring new creations by Cheryl Chapman (Silly Dog Art Glass). Info: www.makinitlocal.com.

Paulina Springs Books StorySLAM "Fresh" Live storytelling competition. Come to tell a story or to listen. 6:30 p.m. $10. Storyteller sign ups at paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Downtown Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Galleries and shops feature art and demonstrations. For additional information go to www.sistersarts.org.

SATURDAY • APRIL 26

The Belfry Live Music: Uncle Jesse and the Trapper Keepers 90s party band playing your favorite tunes! 7 p.m. Tickets and info: www.belfryevents.com.

Studio 6000 Printmaking Class: Intro to Collagraph with Barbara Kennedy 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 26 and 27, $80 For information and to register, email pbennett3@gmail.com. Classes held at 211 E. Sun Ranch Dr., #103.

Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, "Art & Algae: A Seaweed Cyanotype Workshop" with Josie Iselin. Join us for this unique workshop where participants will experiment with cyanotype printing and natural materials to create their own striking blue-and-white prints. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. $100. Registration and info: www.roundhousefoundation.org/events. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly. Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free. Info: 541-549-2471.

SUNDAY • APRIL 27

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.

WEDNESDAY • APRIL 30

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Eileen Garvin presents "Crow Talk." 6:30 p.m. More info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $50 buy-in, freezeout.

THURSDAY • MAY 1

Luckey's Woodsman Trivia: Megan's Terrific Trivia 5:30 p.m. Info: luckeyswoodsman.com.

SATURDAY • MAY 3

Studio 6000 Printmaking Class: Intro to Monotype with Beale Jones 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. $80 For information and to register: pbennett3@gmail.com. Class at 211 E. Sun Ranch Dr., #103.

The Belfry Live Music: Hillfolk Noir Grooving. Raucous. Genre-bending. And always a ton of fun. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., music at 7. Tickets and information: aftontickets.com/hillfolk. Presented by SFF Presents.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly. Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free. Info: 541-549-2471.

MONDAY • MAY 5

Paulina Springs Books Poetry Gathering "The Pause Button," an informal monthly gathering for poets and poetry enthusiasts. Bring a poem or two to share. Listen, discuss, and write. Free. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. More info at www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

WEDNESDAY • MAY 7

Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

SATURDAY • MAY 10

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: William Sullivan presents "50 Hikes: Central Oregon," 6:30 p.m. More info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show

5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly. Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free. Info: 541-549-2471.

TUESDAY • MAY 13

Studio 6000 Printmaking Class: Basic bookmaking with Diana Phillips 6 to 8 p.m. $45. For information and to register: pbennett3@gmail.com. Class held at 211 E. Sun Ranch Dr., #103.

WEDNESDAY • MAY 14

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 • MAY 15

The Belfry Comedy: The Crazy Happy Silly Funny Nerdy Show: A Comedy Focused Variety Show. 7 p.m. Tickets and info: www.belfryevents.com.

Jack Turpen and

Holly Davis were crowned the winners of the 2025 SHS Pageant.

By the end of the night a total of $12,000 was raised for FAN.

SHS Pageant participants enjoyed a three-hour event on Saturday that raised funds for Sisters FAN.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pageant winners Holly Davis and Jack Turpen.

PHOTO BY MITCH TURPEN

Boys tennis continues to win

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Outlaws posted two more wins this week: a 3-2 victory over Madras on Tuesday, April 15, and two days later they recorded a 4-1 win over The Dalles.

In Tuesday’s match against Madras three of the Outlaws singles matches tallied wins, and showcased their determination and strategic play.

Dominic Pulver (No. 1 singles) posted a 6-1, 7-5, win over Fernando Saldana.

Coach Vince Grace noted that Pulver played an intelligent and composed game, and capitalized on his strategic serves and strong forehand despite having a shoulder issue. He was able to move Saldana around the court, and targeted his weaknesses. His tactical play and mental resilience were crucial in securing the win.

Levi Brigido, at No. 3 singles, defeated Luis Gil 7-5, 6-2.

Grace said, “Levi’s quickness and sharp court awareness were on full display, and allowed him to outmaneuver his opponent. He leveraged angles and speed to dictate the pace, expertly exploiting Luis’ weaknesses. Whether attacking the backcourt or placing well-angled shots closer to the net, Levi demonstrated a strong understanding of the game. With his consistent play and developing serve, Levi continues to be a formidable competitor.”

Weston Dean, No. 4 singles, beat Jovani Hug 6-0, 4-6, 10-6. Dean started the match with great placement, and was very consistent in his play, which earned him the first-set win. He lost the second set, but recovered in the third to post the win.

Grace said, “Weston consistently returned the ball, applied relentless pressure, and allowed his opponent to make errors. His marked improvement over the past year is a testament to his dedication and competitive spirit.”

On Thursday, the Outlaws dominated play in their 4-1 win over The Dalles.

Pulver, No. 1 singles, beat Jonathan Rodriguez 6-3, 6-3. Pulver had an impressive performance on the court and combined deep, powerful forehand shots with strategic net play to keep Rodriguez under pressure.

Grace said, “Dom’s smart game plan involved running his opponent around the court, exploiting weaknesses, and waiting patiently for the perfect opportunity to strike. When that moment came, Dom executed with precision, hitting hard and

well-placed shots. It was a great match between two skilled players.”

Jack Murray, No. 2 singles, posted a 6-3, 6-1, win over Arnoldo Flores. Murray played at his best, was focused and patient, and waited for the right opportunities.

“Jack’s elegant strokes, speed, and strength were on full display as he executed his game plan with confidence,” said Grace. “His hard work and perseverance paid off against a tough opponent, and made this one of his standout matches of the season. His progress and potential are exciting to watch.”

Brigido, No. 3 singles, controlled the match in his 6-1, 6-0, win over Gunderson Emmett. Brigido used deep topspin shots and precise cross-court angles, and forced Emmett into mistakes.

Grace told The Nugget that Brigido’s consistency and strategic play were key to his dominant win.

Dean rounded out the wins at No. 4 singles with a 6-2, 6-2, victory over Christian Santillian.

Grace noted, “Weston’s growth as a player was evident in this match. He’s

playing with newfound confidence, and he effectively used lobs alongside overhead smashes to dominate the game. His coachability and love for the game have fueled his remarkable improvement.”

Grace noted, “Sisters’ tennis team has shown tremendous progress this season, showcasing their potential and unwavering determination. Through relentless effort and remarkable growth, this team has proven their resilience and determination. With their unwavering grit and drive, the future gleams brightly.”

The Outlaws have three home games next week: Tuesday, April 22, against Crook County, Thursday against Sherman, and Saturday they will face Umatilla.

Lady Outlaws lose two

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Lady Outlaws fell 2-5 in a hard-fought match at home against Madras on Tuesday, April 15. Two days later they fell 1-5 on the road at The Dalles.

Tuesday was a beautiful day with warm, sunny skies, and matches that were close and competitive. The Lady Outlaws played three 10-point deciding tie-breaker sets, and won two of the three.

Katie Sullivan (No. 1 singles) played a tie-breaker in the second set and won 7-6, but unfortunately fell short 1-10 in the decisive third set tie-breaker.

Coach Bruce Fenn said, “It’s a great leadership role for sophomore Sullivan to play at No. 1 singles. Her effort and strong ground strokes helped her come close to victory. Her movement is also very smooth and effective.”

Jessica Stahn (No. 2 singles) and Isabella Panozzo (No. 3 singles) earned wins for Sisters. Stahn battled for almost two hours in her 2-6, 7-5, 10-3, victory over

Olyvyah Pacheco. Fenn stated she played with hustle and determination and noted that her conditioning and strong consistent forehands helped her get the win.

Panozzo played her best tennis to date in her 5-7, 6-4, 10-4, win over Ava Leach. Fenn told The Nugget that Panozzo played with determination which she demonstrated by great defense, consistency, and placement of her shots.

The doubles teams played competitive, but just couldn’t pull off any wins.

Fenn said, “The doubles teams are learning how to play together and trust each other. Teamwork and communication and moving together as one is what will wins matches. Doubles takes positive teamwork with consistent serves and returns, and Sisters’ doubles teams are beginning to understand their roles as a team member. I see great improvement in the remaining matches.”

On Thursday, Sophie Rush was the lone winner for Sisters with her 6-2, 6-2, straight two-set victory over Liz Murillo. Rush played consistent throughout her match and had great

See TENNIS on page 25

Outlaws putting up personal records in track

By Charlie Kanzig Correspondent

The track and field season is entering the midpoint and personal records and seasonbests are beginning to flow for members of the Outlaws team, which saw action at the 16-team La Pine Invitational on Saturday, April 19.

For the girls, Nona Smith inched closer to the magical sub-minute mark in the open 400 meters with a win in 1:00.3 seconds. Her time ranks fifth among 3A runners this season. Smith came back with a win in the 200 meters as well (27.13) with teammate Audrey Corcoran next in 27.41. Selah Sanford placed fifth in the race with a time of 28.06.

The 4 x 100-meter relay team of Rylie Bick, Shanitah Few, Kate Singleton, and Sanford placed third in 55.18.

Mae Roth, who set the school record a week ago, took first in the pole vault at 11 feet even as the other individual winner for the Outlaw team. Her mark of 11-feet9-inches has her sitting atop the 3A girls rankings by over two feet. Althea Crabtree finished third at 9 feet and ranks fourth among 3A girls in the event.

The 4x400-meter relay team appears to be getting serious as they destroyed

the rest of the field in a season best time of 4:15.68.

Members included Smith, Brooke Duey, Josie Ryan, and Corcoran. The time ranks third among 3A teams so far this season.

Shae Wyland, a senior in her first year in the sport, established personal bests in the shot put (27-feet-8.25inches), the discus (77-feet11-inches) and the javelin (81-feet-1-inch).

Crabtree picked up a second place in the 100 hurdles with a season best of 16.69 and she and Few both cleared 4-feet-8-inches in the high jump to place second and fifth respectively.

Ryan clocked 5:31.28 in the 1,500 for fourth place, and in the 800 Khloe Kohl set a personal best of 2:47.24 to score for the team in seventh place.

Sisters picked up enough points to win the team title by four points over Madras 126-122.

Leaders on the boys side came in the middle distances as George Roberts dropped over six seconds from his personal best in the 1,500 meters to win in 4:19.23, pulling sophomore Bauer Ellis to second place in 4:26.08. Roberts doubled back to win the 800 meters as well in a personal best of 2:10.40.

Charlie Moen popped a season record of 131-feet-9inches in the javelin for second place and Tabor Garcia tossed a personal best of 125 feet even.

The team was a bit shorthanded due to conflicts with the SHS pageant that took place Saturday evening, but still managed to place third in the team standings with 62

points. Madras amassed 161 points for the team title, followed by Summit junior varsity with 83.

The big meet provided important experience for the team, especially the younger and less experienced athletes who competed, according to coach Jonathan Kelly.

The Outlaws face two meets, and possibly three,

this week including a threeway meet at Summit against the Storm and Redmond on Wednesday. On Saturday, qualifiers for the 1A-4A Meet of Champions will travel to Sweet Home. In addition a handful of Outlaws are likely to take part in the Jesuit Twilight Relays in Portland on Friday, but entries had not been confirmed by press time.

Dear Sisters Country Community:

The Rotary Club of Sisters wishes to thank the following sponsors that donated to make our community MegaRaffle a success with more than $7,000 of value in prizes awarded the winners among our 700 tickets sold:

• Abby’s Legendary Pizza

• Aspen Lakes Golf Course

• Bend Elks Baseball

• Britt Music & Arts Festival

• Central Oregon Adventures

• Central Oregon Daily

• Combined Communications

• Crazy R Running T Ranch Wine Tasting

• Hair Caché

• High Camp Taphouse

• High Desert Museum

• Hoyt’s Hardware & Building Supply

• Iyengar Yoga

• Left Coast Lodge

• Les Schwab Tire

• Moose Sisters

• Mt. Hood Oregon Resort

• Optum Worldwide Travel

• Rancho Viejo

• ROAM Natural Skincare

• Seed to Table

• Shinsei Sushi

• Sisters Apothecary

• Sisters Athletic Club

• Sisters Cascades

• Sisters Delivery and Shuttle

• Sisters Depot

• Sisters Veterinary Clinic

• Sno Cap Drive In

• Sweat PNW

• The SweetEasy Co

• Takoda’s

• Wildlife Safari

Through the money raised, your 40-member Rotary Club of Sisters is able to serve you locally through the following projects and more:

• More than $100,000 in scholarships for Sisters High School seniors over 20 years

• Lead volunteers of Fourth Fest Independence Day and Halloween events

• Books 4 Kids in our elementary school

• Middle School Art Celebration contest

• Glory Daze Car Show

• Little Libraries throughout town

• Lead sponsor and organizer for Living Well With Dementia programs

• Volunteer efforts for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Seed to Table, Neighborlmpact, Family Access Network, and Sisters Park & Recreation District.

In Service and Gratitude to Sisters since 1989

New Farmers Insurance agent ready to serve

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Charles Little is ready to serve the Sisters community as the new Farmers Insurance agent.

Farmers Insurance offers home, life, auto, commercial, renters and condo insurance and more. While focusing on Farmers Insurance policies, “we have the ability to go outside Farmers,” Little emphasizes. (This is known as being a “semi-captive” agency.)

Charles Pemberton Little IV brings an exceptionally varied work background and an entrepreneurial spirit to bear. He’s been a commercial fisherman, a railroad conductor, and a radio personality. He was a fitness coach and trainer for 36 years, and owned a CrossFit gym in Central Oregon for 12. All of those varied experiences contributed to the one thing he believes is most important in any business:

“It just gave me an ability to relate to people,” he said.

Farmers Insurance reached out to him about becoming an

LETTERS

Continued from page 2

s s s

— Charles Little

agent a while ago, but the timing wasn’t right.

“My timing wasn’t one where I could just jump on it,” he said.

But the idea appealed to him, and when transitions in his personal situation created major changes, he took up the opportunity. Becoming a Farmers Insurance agent offered him three major benefits: the flexibility to be present for his children, and the ability to make a good living — all while making a difference for people.

“This was something that could afford me a chance to fast-track myself back into a good position,” he said. “I can actually make a living, and I can help people. My goal here is to make sure everybody is

Limousine liberals

To the Editor:

“Limousine liberals” – really?

I can’t imagine being so unhappy, small, and angry as to write a letter so full of insults, invective, and veiled threats – and then to demand respect at the end of it. I will leave it to others, and legitimate media, to keep supplying the ample facts and information that the writer says he is waiting for; or maybe we just wait for fire season, grocery price spikes, closed national parks, or .…

But it is important to correct one misconception that seems to be making the rounds at the higher levels, as they look to disassemble Social Security, Medicare, and other programs.

The “silver haired protester” types who took to the streets in Sisters, and all across the country, demanding that the safety net remain intact, aren’t victims of a Ponzi scheme. They paid into these programs their entire working lives to support others, and now deserve to be supported in their turn. This is not the sign of a scam, it is an indicator of a civilized society.

I suggest that the writer face the fact that the 800-plus people demonstrating on the streets of Sisters, who “unmasked themselves” as he would have it, is the equivalent of more than a quarter of the town’s population. Take that as a comparison to his cause, take it as a warning, take it how one wishes, but definitely take it as proof that respect should go the other way, too.

Mark Kelley

s s s

Roundabout artwork

To the Editor:

Like many in the community, I opted not to cast my vote for either of the final artwork proposals for our roundabout. This decision isn’t meant to undermine the artists; rather, I

taken care of. That makes me feel good.”

Insurance is a fraught topic in Sisters Country these days, as homeowners insurance is impacted by concerns over losses to wildfire.

Little emphasizes that communication is key to ensuring that you’re appropriately covered. That goes for any type of insurance. He will sit down and walk through the customer’s needs and assess any changes that might need to be made. Costs for everything are increasing, including rebuilding costs, and that can affect insurance premiums. Little is committed to making sure all of his clients have what they really need — no more and no less.

His enthusiasm for his work is evident. Little is reaching out to clients — but he encourages anyone to reach out to him.

“Absolutely,” he said. “Please do.”

Little can be reached at 541-588-6245 or 541-7281181. Farmers Insurance is located at 257 S. Pine St., Ste. 101.

felt that neither piece truly captured the western spirit we aimed to embody. As local artists pointed out, the existing stallion sculpture is not the appropriate scale to be moved to the roundabout.

It would be beneficial for Sisters to keep searching for the perfect artwork that represents our town’s entrance. I believe it’s worth considering another Call to Artists and revisiting proposals that may have been overlooked or were not considered in the first two Call to Artists.

There is no consensus at this time and what we place there is permanent; I believe it should be a captivating, thoughtful installation.

Kathleen Naranjo

s s s

UGB

To the Editor:

Several people have suggested infill instead of UGB expansion. Except for one or two, the majority of available properties are single or oversized lots. Are we willing to fill those empty properties with 3 or 4 stories condos, townhouses, or apartments? The housing analysis shows the overwhelming deficit is low-density residential housing and a surplus of high-density residential housing.

I take objection to the idea of considering property for a UGB expansion on the west side of town just to distribute growth. In the last seven years the west side has added McKenzie Meadows, Sunset Meadows, a new elementary school, Woodland, East Portal, and the future Trinity Project.

There are creative ways to think about future growth. I have researched fire resilient subdivisions, wildlife/natural resource communities, and affordable housing. There are commonalities in these areas. I suggest people read about fire resilient subdivisions and conservation subdivisions. With creative thinking and changing some of our codes we could come up with a compromise that could be beneficial to our community.

Cathy Russell

Charles Little is ready to serve Sisters insurance needs at the Farmers Insurance offices on South Pine Street.

Sisters Rental

Spring is in the air — and that sends all of us off to Sisters Rental to get equipped for our spring and summer home and yard projects.

This year, it’s important to act early if you need to make any equipment purchases. Vendors have informed Sisters Rental that price increases are coming across the board — but all the stock on hand c an be had at current pricing. So if you need a new highqualit y mower, blower, or edger, now’s the time to get one.

It’s also time to get your yard equipment

Central Woof & Groom

When you need to head out of town for work or pleasure, it’s impor ta nt to know that your beloved dog is in good hands. Central Woof is a dog’s dream of a good time — a place where they c an play and socialize with other dogs while their human is off doing… whatever humans do when they don’t have their dog around. It’s a fun, sa fe e nv ironment, where the staff really cares about each and ever y c anine under their c are. When it’s chilly, there is plenty of indoor space. When it’s warm, there are pools and an extensive outdoor play area.

into the small engine shop for ser vicing. Beat the rush and get y our m owe r and other equipment in shape for the hard work of spring and summer, from engine tuneups to blade replacement, etc.

Sisters Re nt al is your g o- to source fo r rental equipment for all your chores, from s anding to staining to building and repairing. They also have lots of know-how to help you get the right tool or equipment for your job

Whether you just need an overnight or need ex t ended boarding, Ce n tral Woof makes it simple for you. Just give them a call and they ’ll make all the arrangements. A simple rule of thumb: When you book your vacation, book your dog’s vacation, too

And you c an book a day time visit, or a “spa day” with professional bathing and massage. Your dog will thank you for it — if he’s not too sleepy from having a high time with his buddies.

Ma ke sur e y our furr y friend is fully vaccinated.

Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy

Therapeutic A ssociates has added two new therapists to the team, which means there are plenty of highly trained physical therapists on staff to help you recover from injur y, enhance per f ormance, and keep going with all the Sisters Countr y activities you love to do

Sarah Co nsiglio comes to Therapeutic A ssocia te s as a gradua te of the O SUCascades Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She is passionate about prov iding innovative, re search-based, patient- cente red ph ysical therapy in te rv entions to

empower people of all ages and abilities to achieve their rehab goals.

Nat alie Zadeh comes to the clinic afte r working with Bend Athletic Club. She has a par ticular interest in injured worker recover y, and working with equestrian injuries — not an uncommon phenomenon in Sisters Countr y.

Therapeutic A ssociates offers a unique ste p-d own program with Sis te rs Athletic Club, and access to the Sisters Athletic Club pool makes working through your program easy and effective.

BANR Enterprises

While BANR Enterprises takes on major commercial projects across Oregon, owner Scott Davis really l oves doing residential work in Sisters Countr y. “ The best part of it for me personally is seeing the faces of the people when it’s done,” he said.

BANR brings three decades of experience to bear on all kinds of jobs — and customer satisfaction means that most of their work comes through referrals. “For me, personally, that means a lot,” Davis said.

BANR does a wide range of work : building rock walls, removing trees, grading,

paving, and concrete w ork Davis no te s that they recently completed a project with the Metolius Meadows HOA, building an underground reser voir holding more than 100,000 gallons of water.

The quality of BANR’s work earns plaudits — but equally important is responsiveness.

“We don’t know any other way,”  Davis s aid. “Your project is significant —  simple as repairing a sidewalk to building a horse arena or (building) a mile of road.”

BANR also offers screened yard products and gravel direct to the consumer

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Alpine land cat astrophe fi r e pr evention, deer and elk winter range r estoration

Or ganic veget able gar den pr ep with 4-year aged or ganic compos t blend

Soil compac tion r educ tion, restoration, and pr event applications

Alpine Land Management

SPECIALIZING IN SIS T ERS PROPERT IE S 541 977 6711

alpineland@aol.com | V er non Stubb s

The landscapes we f orm around our proper ty are a critical par t of our qualit y of life. Vernon Stubbs of Alpine Land Management has a passion for the land that transla te s in to his w ork That w ork demonstrates that planting with native dr yland grasses and managing timber for optimal health and fire resistance (silviculture) is good for the land, and beautiful for people Stubbs’ focus on native grasses means your landscape will have low demand for water and keeps soil erosion down. The use of organic fer tilizers livens the soil and helps

Next Phase Realt y

At Next Phase Realty, Debbi McCune and Meg Anderson specialize in helping their clients transition to a new phase of life — hence the name. Whether it’s a young family growing into a larger home, or an older c ouple looking to “r ight size” t heir h ome when a larger home is more than they want or need, Next Phase Realt y is there fo r them.

One of their major focuses is on helping Sisters people identify how to age in place Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions we make in life, and it’s more

than a simple trans action. We need trustwo rt hy and reliable par tners to navigate what c an sometimes be a challenging market or life circumstances that force our hand. Transitions c an be challenging and emotional, and Debbi and Meg are experienced at helping people through the process, encouraging them to be patient with themselves as they move for ward.

They st ay abreast of global, national, regional, and local dynamics to help their clients make the best-informed decisions they can as they enter their next phase

build a nutrient-rich landscape.

Alpine Land Management also specializes in creating raised garden beds.

Strategic and selective removal of fuels makes your landscape more resilient and biodiverse — and it looks wonderful.

“It’s attractive aesthetically — absolutely!” Stubbs said.

Stubbs cuts custom-length-and-width f ence posts fr om We st ern Juniper an d he is also pr opagating various Sulphur Buckwheats and native Penstemon varieties in one- and three-gallon containers.

M& J Carpet Cleaning

Sisters Countr y is hard on your c arpet and upholster y. It’s especially notable afte r we’ve tracked win te r in for months. It ’s time for a good, deep spring cleaning. M&J Carpet Cleaning offers thorough and environmentally sensitive cleaning that leaves your carpet looking and feeling great.

M& J C arpet & Upholst er y Cleaning’s methods leave no residue, so your carpets st ay cleaner for longer And it’s not just about aesthetics; it makes for a healthier environment, too.

It takes a lot of knowledge and expertise

to safely clean upholstery, and M& J Carpet Cleaning offers just that. It’s a family operation with decades of experience to bring to bear. Water temperatures of 240 degrees and p ower ful vacuum c apabilities mean y our upholster y looks great and doesn’t take much time to dr y.

M& J C arpet & Upholst er y c an clean leather, rugs, and fabric upholster y as well as deep- cleaning your carpet. Whether it’s residential or commercial, your investment in your carpets and upholster y deser ves to be well-maintained.

Par tners In Care

Partners In Care offers vital home health care to people in Sisters. Home health care is available to people who are homebound and h ave a par ticular need that requires the skills of a nurse or therapist. That could be an injur y r equiring w ound ca re fo r post-surger y needs. Needs like physical therapy and speech therapy c an be met Home Health is also available for people who have recently been hospitalized due to chronic conditions like heart disease, COPD, or diabetes and need support with disease management.

All You Need Maintenance

We alwa ys head in to spring with a mix tur e of ex cit ement and tr epidation. Those spring chor es will mak e eve rything so nice — yet there’s a lot of work to be done. That’s e specially true now that a big push is on to make our proper ties more resistant and resilient to wildfire risk You don’t have to take on those daunting chores all by yourself

All You Need Maintenance can give you — well…, all you need — when it comes to fire fuel mitigation — from landscaping and

mastication. They can limb your trees or cut them as required — and they c an handle high-risk tree removal that has to be done carefully and piece-by-piece

They c an a lso handle all y our ro utin e lawn and landscape maintenance

All You Need Maintenance is proud to offer discounts for militar y personnel and people in public ser vice

Co nt act them to get on the schedule now and get your property in shape for fire season — and to fully enjoy it as the warm months arrive.

The loss of independence from illness or injur y c an be one of the most difficult challenges facing a person and their family. The Partners In Care team understands the emotional frustrations that can manifest during rec ove ry and works with patients and families to support the healing journey. Pa r tners In Ca re cust omizes home h ealth ser vices for each patient’s specifi c needs, combining compassionate care with medical and rehabilitation exper tise, offering home visits, education, and referrals to other supportive resources.

Deadline approaches for literary submissions

Writers exploring themes around desert landscapes are invited to enter the 11th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize. The submission window is open now through May 1, at 11:59 p.m.

This prestigious award, a program of the High Desert Museum, celebrates proposals for outstanding literary nonfiction dedicated to the literal and figurative exploration of desert landscapes.

This year’s winner will receive a $3,000 cash award and be recognized with a reception and reading at the Museum in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025. Tickets are available now at www.high desertmuseum.org/waterstonaward-ceremony-2025.

“The Waterston Desert Writing Prize is now in its 11th year of celebrating desert regions and landscapes,” said Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “These works recognize the vital role deserts play and have been engaging, eloquent reads. We look forward to seeing what this year’s submissions tell us.”

Serving as guest judge this year is Beth Piatote (Nez Perce, Colville Confederated Tribes). Writer, professor and language activist, Piatote is the author of two books: the scholarly monograph “Domestic Subjects: Gender, Citizenship, and Law in Native American Literature” (2013) and a mixed-genre collection entitled “The Beadworkers: Stories” (2019). She has written a number of plays, including a Native American retelling of the ancient Greek play, “Antigone.” “Antikoni” premiered at the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles in 2024. Piatote is an associate professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Berkley. She has served as a guest judge on literary award panels including the PEN America and the Poetry Foundation.

Dan Flores, Ph.D., will serve as the 2025 keynote speaker. Originally from Louisiana but now based near Santa Fe, New Mexico, Flores was the A.B. Hammond Professor of the History of the American West at the University of Montana. A prolific writer with 11 books to his name, Flores’ most recent works were 2023 Rachel Carson Book Prize winner “Wild New World: The Epic Story of Animals and People in America” and New York Times bestseller, “Coyote America: A Natural and Supernatural History” (2016). His essays have appeared in newspapers and magazines

across the country including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and Time Magazine. Flores focuses on nature writing and the biographies of animals. His work has earned him honors from Pen America, the Society of Environmental Journalists, the Sigurd Olsen Nature Writing Awards, the Great Plains Distinguished Book Awards, the National Outdoor Book Awards, and Phi Beta Kappa’s Ralph Waldo Emerson Prizes.

The Prize was established in 2014, inspired by author and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston’s love of the High Desert — a region that has been her muse for more than 40 years. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize celebrates writers whose nonfiction book proposal reflects a similar connection to a desert anywhere in the world.

“The tangible encouragement and important literary recognition the Prize provides gives the winner a needed boost on the way to realizing their proposed project,” said Waterston. “The Prize brings to light new perspectives on a wide range of desert-related topics, from the desertification of a reef in the ocean, the adaptability of certain desert flora and fauna, the effect of rising temperatures on particular life forms, or the timeless call of deserts worldwide as the place to meet oneself head on.”

Emerging, mid-career and established nonfiction writers who illustrate artistic excellence, sensitivity to place and desert literacy with the desert as both subject and setting are invited to apply. The award supports literary nonfiction writers who are completing, proposing or considering the creation of a book-length manuscript. It is recommended that the writing sample submitted is part of the proposed project or closely represents it in content and style.

Past winners of the Prize include Leath Tonino (2024), Anna Welch (2023), and Caroline Tracey (2022). A full-time freelance writer, Tonino’s submission “Nooks and Crannies: Mapping the (Unmappable) Waterpocket Fold with Prose Vignettes” is a documentation of his outdoor encounters in Utah’s Waterpocket Fold, the sandstone that forms the spine of Capitol Reef National Park. He was joined by keynote speaker Tucker Malarkey and guest judge Sam Waterston. For information about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and how to submit an entry, visit www.highdesert museum.org/waterston-prize.

First responders get cancer screening

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District personnel took a class on skin cancer awareness, then gathered in front of the Fire Hall for their turn in a mobile screening unit last week.

The event was led by Project Happy Face, a nonprofit that brings mobile dermatology services into rural communities in Oregon. The event was the first in a series screening first responders from Sisters east to the state line.

Neutrogena provided packets with sunscreen to each first responder, and Castle Biosciences sponsored lunch for participants.

Castle Biosciences conducts genetic testing on cancers as part of a “circle of care.”

The American Academy of Dermatology reports that firefighters have a 21 percent greater risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Firefighters have a 62 percent greater risk of melanoma between ages 30-49 compared to the general population of the same age. Firefighters are exposed to carcinogens in the line of duty, especially when fighting fires. Some of the carcinogens they may encounter include asbestos, benzene, formaldehyde, PAHs, and PFAS. These carcinogens can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.

The Nugget N EWS PA PE R WHERE IN THE WORLD IS ?

Project Happy Face’s mobile screening unit stopped at Sisters Fire Hall last week to give free cancer screenings to Sisters first responders. Early detection is important to good outcomes in skin cancer cases.

PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS

Ken Hashagen of Sisters traveled to Vietnam for a bird watching tour — with his Nugget!

It’s lambing season and members of Cloverdale Livestock Club, the Sisters County 4H chapter, pick their market lambs to raise and show. Avery Horton cuddles one of several possibilities with whom she will compete leading up to the annual Deschutes County Fair.

Community rallies for injured cyclist

Friends and colleagues of Andrew Loscutoff are raising funds to help him deal with medical bills and recovery time after a serious cycling accident.

Loscutoff is a physical trainer and an avid cyclist, who formerly wrote a fitness column for The Nugget . He was seriously hurt in a mountain biking accident east of

town, suffering a broken scapula, wrist, multiple broken ribs, and broken transverse process of the vertebra.

Tate Metcalf of Sisters Athletic Club and Casey Meudt of Blazin Saddles have set up a GoFundMe account to support Loscutoff.

“We are fundraising because he has to take extended time off and has

BBR names new food and beverage director

Black Butte Ranch has named David Oliver as its new food and beverage director, the Central Oregon destination resort recently announced. Oliver, who began his new role on Friday, April 11, will work closely with Executive Chef John Scott and the Black Butte Ranch leadership team as he quickly gets up to speed in preparation for the busy season ahead.

extensive medical bills (even though he has insurance),” they wrote. “Multiple nights in the hospital, etc, can quickly add up…

“Andrew is a key player in Central Oregon for wellness and cycling. From working with a large and diverse clientele in personal training, to organizing cycling teams and races, to volunteering with youth for bike skill instruction and being on trail advocacy boards. Cycling and Wellness in Central Oregon are better because of Andrew! Andrew and Kim are expecting their first baby in June!

“Any donation you could contribute would be greatly appreciated.”

The Fundraising page can be accessed at https://www. gofundme.com/f/rally-forandrew-biking-accident-aid.

A hospitality professional with a passion for guest experience and team development, Oliver will oversee Black Butte Ranch’s diverse food and beverage operations, including The Lodge Restaurant — named by People Magazine and OpenTable as one of the most beautiful restaurants in the U.S. — Robert’s Pub, the Lakeside Bistro, and all catering and banquet services.

“David’s deep operational experience and commitment to quality made him the standout candidate, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Black Butte Ranch,” said Kyle Cummings, CEO of Black Butte Ranch. “He brings a thoughtful leadership style and a strong understanding of what it takes to deliver memorable dining experiences. We’re excited to see how he helps elevate our already excellent culinary offerings.”

With more than 15 years of experience in high-end food and beverage operations, Oliver brings an impressive résumé that spans some of the West Coast’s most respected

culinary destinations. Most recently, Oliver served as the food and beverage manager at Juniper Preserve in Bend, where, since 2022, he oversaw all aspects of the destination resort’s food and beverage service.

Before Juniper Preserve, Oliver served as the director of operations for High Desert Hospitality in Bend, overseeing the operations of award-winning restaurants such as Bos Taurus and Miyagi Ramen in Bend. He also worked under legendary Napa-area chef Thomas Keller as bar manager in Yountville, California, and earlier in his career, he held food and beverage leadership roles at The Keating Hotel in San Diego.

“Joining the team at Black Butte Ranch is an incredible opportunity,” Oliver said. “This is a place with such a rich legacy and strong commitment to hospitality. I’m excited to collaborate with Chef John Scott and the rest of the team to continue raising the bar for food and beverage throughout the Ranch.”

David Oliver.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Andrew Loscutoff, a key figure in the Sisters cycling community, suffered serious injuries in a cycling accident. The community is raising funds to help him and his family.

PHOTO PROVIDED

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

The Bunkhouse Chronicle

Craig Rullman Columnist

Sheriff should resign

The Sheriff of Deschutes County, Kent van der Kamp, should resign. There, I said it. I wish it didn’t need to be said, or even considered, but when a pattern of deception is revealed in any member of law enforcement there can be no other outcome. Because the stakes are too high. Because integrity matters. Because it is the right thing to do.

The most important tool on any officer’s belt isn’t his gun, or his taser, or his radio. It’s his integrity, and without it an officer is useless to his community, to his partners, and ultimately to himself. The second most important tool is an officer’s discretion to make decisions. To write a ticket or to issue a warning. To handle complex situations with reason rather than emotion. To let somebody walk, or to put them in bracelets. To resign, or to stick it out.

Despite frequent claims to the contrary, law enforcement doesn’t exist in black and white, and it would be impossible to police a community that rigidly while maintaining the public trust. The letter of the law and the spirit of the law are different things, and sometimes — many times — it’s important to know the difference. But while many aspects of the profession exist deep in the gray, the truth does not. The truth cannot. And when the truth is compromised by a law enforcement officer, for any reason, nobody wins. The public loses, the department loses, and the officer loses.

Witnesses frequently lie. Victims sometimes lie. Crooks almost always lie. And we expect them to lie. But cops can’t do it. Not about investigations, not on their reports, not in court, and preferably nowhere else. The one place left where citizens should realistically, rightly, and vehemently, demand the truth is from their local law enforcement.

We might have already accepted that the FBI is a nest of liars, or that Congress is a giant machine whose sole purpose is to crank out falsehoods, but they are mostly beyond the reach of accountability, and we can

still demand that our local deputies and city cops tell us the truth. Every time. We need them to tell us the truth — in a world where so many layers of government — from city councils to state legislatures — have abandoned any notion of uncompromisable institutional integrity.

I don’t like writing this. In some ways it is heartbreaking, because there is little doubt that the Sheriff, over his long career, has also done tremendous service to his community, and at great personal sacrifice. I have no doubt he was a great partner, and a good leader, and is — by and large — a better version of the human species. All of these things can be true at the same time. But there is no room in law enforcement for those who lie, either directly or by omission, regardless of their motivation.

Lying, even once, even for something as stupid as where he went to school, permanently taints everything else, and everyone around him.

In most places lying, and being thrown on the Brady List, is a termination offense, although I know of one case where the officer ended up as the mayor of a large city. Nevertheless, that is as it should be. Because once you’ve lied under oath you can’t be trusted to handle an investigation. You can’t work alone. And you can’t testify. And if you can’t do those things, you can’t do the job you’ve been hired to do, and you certainly do not deserve the enormous amount of trust and responsibility that the job assumes.

Far worse than cratering the officer’s own reputation, the greater damage is always done to those officers who do a very difficult job without ever compromising their integrity. The exposure of a liar, and at the top of an organization, is crushing for a

department whose members answer the demanding standards, and who are out there every day meeting criminals and victims face to face — because liars undermine trust in the eyes of the public. Which is a reasonable reaction. This kind of damage can take years to overcome, makes policing infinitely harder than it already is, and can put officers in real jeopardy during critical incidents where trust is the only thing between talking a subject down peacefully or a deadly use of force. It can ruin investigations when people don’t want to talk to cops that they don’t trust to tell the truth, or to do the right thing.

Trust matters, and it is always built on integrity.

I had a great supervisor once, in charge of our Major Crimes Bureau, who reminded me that there are two kinds of cops — after one of our own had been caught doing very stupid things. The first kind, he said, is the one who makes mistakes of the head, and the second is the kind who makes mistakes of the heart. The former can be corrected, because everyone makes a dumb decision from time to time. A little more training and experience will usually correct it. But mistakes of the heart are a different animal, and usually evident in a pattern of deliberate behavior — like lying about little things until lying about a big one doesn’t seem like a big deal at all.

It might take a week, it might take a few years, or it might take a career, but eventually the second kind will be exposed. It’s a mistake of the heart because the officer knows better but does it anyway. And it can’t be corrected. The only solution is termination, or resignation, before it spreads like a virus and contaminates everyone, and every case, it touches.

Strong pitching carries Outlaws into league play

The Sisters Outlaws baseball squad is blessed with an arsenal of strong pitching arms, which Coach Matt Hilgers says is the key to success in league play.

The Outlaws kicked off their league schedule on Tuesday, April 15, with a 6-3 victory over La Pine and followed up by winning both frames of a double-header on Friday against Harrisburg with scores of 15-3 and 9-1.

The format of a Tuesday game and a Friday doubleheader runs through the season, and it puts a big demand on the pitching staff.

“If you don’t have pitching, you’re going to struggle,” Hilgers said. Fortunately for the Outlaws, they’ve got a roster full of aces.

Junior Sebastian Storch recently fanned 15 batters to record an “immaculate” nohitter. Trent Gordon, Landen Scott, and Diego Silva all bring accurate and reliable pitches to the mound, mostly bringing a fastball mixed with

a breaking pitch.

“What we’ve really preached is that you’ve got to have two pitches at this level,” Hilgers said. “It’s just throwing strikes.”

The Outlaws bats are not quite at the same level as the pitching, a weakness the coaching staff is working to shore up.

“There’s a big jump at this level from junior varsity to varsity,” Hilgers explained. “That’s been our focus all year — to get a better approach at the plate, then get some hits. We’ll get there.”

Hilgers figures that strong pitching will keep the Outlaws in every game, and help them make a bid for the league title.

“If we play our game, I think we’ll be right there in league,” he said.

The Outlaws were to play against Elmira at home on Tuesday, then face Creswell on the road in the week’s double-header, before hitting the road to Pleasant Hill on Tuesday, April 29.

How nutrition and sleep needs evolve

As we age, our bodies undergo significant changes, impacting everything from our energy levels to our overall health. Two critical aspects of wellbeing that require careful attention as we age are nutri tion and sleep. Understanding how our needs in these areas evolve can help us maintain a vibrant and healthy lifestyle.

Nutrition

Metabolic slowdown: One of the most significant changes during aging is a decrease in metabolic rate. This means we burn fewer calories in our activities of daily living. Because of this, overeating can quickly lead to weight gain. Therefore, portion control and mindful eating become essential to keeping our bodies healthy during the aging process.

Reduced nutrient absorption: The digestive system becomes less efficient at absorbing nutrients. This makes it crucial to focus on nutrient-dense foods to ensure we get the vitamins and minerals we need. Nutrient dense foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, eggs, seafood, beans and nuts.

Changes in appetite and thirst: Older adults may experience a decrease in appetite and a reduced sense of thirst. This can lead to inadequate intake of both food and fluids, potentially causing dehydration and malnutrition.

Specific nutrient needs:

• Protein — maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important. Adequate protein intake is essential to combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia).

• Calcium and Vitamin D — bone health is a major concern. Sufficient calcium

Work zone…

and vitamin D are vital for preventing osteoporosis.

• Vitamin B12 — absorption of vitamin B12 can decrease, leading to deficiency. Fortified foods or supplements may be necessary.

• Fiber — digestive issues like constipation become more common. A high-fiber diet can help maintain digestive health when paired with adequate hydration.

Sleep Patterns

Changes in sleep architecture: As we age, the structure of our sleep changes. We tend to spend less time in deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration. This can result in feeling less rested, even after a full night’s sleep.

Increased sleep fragmentation: Older adults often experience more frequent awakenings during the night. This can be due to various factors, including medical conditions, medications, and changes in the body’s internal clock.

Altered circadian rhythm: The body’s natural sleepwake cycle can shift, leading to earlier bedtimes and wake-up times.

Common sleep problems:

• Insomnia — difficulty falling or staying asleep is a common complaint.

• Sleep apnea. This condition, characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, becomes more prevalent with age.

• Restless legs syndrome — an uncomfortable sensation in the legs that creates an urge to move them, disrupting sleep. Strategies for healthy aging Nutrition. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods. Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Consider supplements. Talk to your doctor about whether you need any vitamin or mineral supplements. Eat regularly. Avoid skipping meals to maintain stable energy levels.

Sleep.

• Establish a routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

• Create a relaxing bedtime ritual. Engage in calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music.

• Optimize your sleep environment. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.

• Limit screen time. Avoid using electronic devices before bed, as the blue light can interfere with sleep.

• Seek professional help. If you’re struggling with chronic sleep problems, consult a doctor or sleep specialist.

As we age, our bodies’ needs evolve, and adapting our nutrition and sleep habits is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. By understanding these changes and implementing appropriate strategies, we can embrace aging gracefully and enjoy a fulfilling life.

Work is underway on the Barclay Drive bypass, which will create periodic road closures between Locust and Larch streets. Work will continue another five to six weeks.

Sisters hosts Tai Chi event

Sisters will mark International Tai Chi and Qigong Day with an event in Sisters on Tuesday, April 29, at 10 a.m. at Creekside Park. Anyone interested in experiencing the movement and calm of these ancient forms is welcome to attend.

International Tai Chi and Qigong Day has been an annual worldwide event since 1999. It starts each year in the Far East and continues for 24 hours around the world. Practitioners/ Instructors help students learn to use mindfulness and movement together to achieve strength in their bodies, a balanced heart, clear mind, and more connection to life.

Qigong is 3,000 years old and has three veins – martial arts, medical, and spirituality. All three use the premise that where the mind goes, the

Qi (vital life force) flows. Practitioners consider the practice helpful to reduce stress and anxiety, support the muscles with increased blood flow and balance the energy in the body, mind, and spirit. Qigong uses the same theories as acupuncture.

The instructors at the Sisters event this year will be:

• Joyce Burk Brown –Certified Soaring Crane Qigong Instructor with 21 years of experience.

• Dawn Song – Qigong instructor; Spring Forrest Qigong.

• Sensei Bill Turner – Founder of SkiGong Training for Performance and Longevity. Certified Holden Qigong Instructor and Energetic Healer with 35 years of experience.

For more information, contact Joyce Burk Brown at 541-420-5875.

Sunday, April 27, 2025, 2-5 p.m.

FivePine Lodge & Conference Center 1021 E. Desperado Trail, Sisters Hors d’oeuvres & drinks provided Learn about existing science programming in Sisters School District, support the growth of science programming, and connect with other science lovers in town! Hear from the science teachers and students who benefit from extracurricular sciencebased activities and learn how your donation ensures the ongoing success of these programs. Funds raised will be for sciencerelated field trips, science teacher conferences and updated science equipment. For those unable to attend, donations may be made through the Sisters Science Club website

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

persisted on this site, in one form or another, since Martin Hanson’s 1921 Resort. Much of the grace and functionality of this getaway owes thanks to the collaborative vision of three people: Mrs. Bertha Ronald, an ex-pat Parisian tobacco heiress, Roblay, and her husband Harmon Hays “Bud” McMullin, the grandson of Captain Jack Hays, famous Texas Ranger.

Roblay landed in a San Francisco firm at the age of 19, and left in the 1920s with a dashing husband, an investment broker, who preferred to be called “Bud.” They ran a horse ranch in Eastern Oregon until their horses were stolen, then came to the Metolius to see Buds sister, a wealthy international socialite named Mrs. Eliza Gallois.

Eliza’s husband John Gallois was a San Franciso financier and like many, they had fallen in love with the

Metolius. They purchased a riverside property in 1925 and built a large summer house, calling it “House on Metolius.”

Tying this story into more international knots, Eliza had a good friend, Mrs. Bertha Ronalds, a recently widowed tobacco heiress, who had lived in Paris for 30 years. When Mrs. Ronalds visited her friend Eliza on the Metolius River she decided a 160-acre property near Lake Creek would be perfect for her new summer house and ranch, but she needed a ranch manager and a secretary.

Eliza played matchmaker and Bud and Roblay were hired. Mrs. Ronalds learned she could not own property in the U.S. for tax reasons, as she was a legal resident of Monaco. She gifted or resold the property to the McMullins for about a dollar according to author Ray Hatton.

Together they set out to build a vision of a retreat with a Cascadian lodge, wood paneled cabins, decks for drinks on summer evenings, a luxurious summer

home with heated pool, guest and staff quarters, and a garage for a fleet of six cars. An equestrian facility with an indoor riding arena and about 70 miles of horse trails completed the setting for a life of rustic luxury. The Bend Bulletin noted that a new lodge and 10 deluxe rustic cabins were to be ready by June 1, 1937. Many pieces of this creative partnership live on in Camp Sherman today.

In the early days, part of Roblay’s duties included accompanying Mrs. Ronalds on her morning horseback rides. Early photos show Roblay in cowgirl gear, posing in the snow, young and vibrant, quietly pensive in a wood-paneled room, or on horseback with Bud.

Things changed suddenly in 1941, when Mrs. Ronalds decided to vacate her summer home. The McMullins sold her ranch and summer home and other buildings on the westside of the road. In 1973 a developer converted it to over a hundred residential lots of the Metolius Meadows subdivision, where most Camp Sherman residents live today.

The McMullins continued to run Lake Creek Lodge for many years as a beloved retreat. Families came back year after year for the simple pleasures of life near water,

pine forests, riding, fishing, tennis, and a break from cooking with a dinner bell and classic meals.

Long-time employees and guests contributed descriptions in a memory book that current owner Gordon Jones keeps in the Lodge library. In her memories, Theresa Farrens notes her family were regulars at the Lodge from the late 1940s to early ’50s. The trip from Portland in their Buick station wagon on red cinder roads took all day. Like many, her family became good friends with Roblay. Guest Sally Follen labeled her the “hostess with the mostest,” adding if she liked you, she would do anything for you. If she didn’t like you, she would let you know.

John Wick was 17 years old in 1953 when Bud taught him how to drive an old pickup in the pastures so he could drive to the dump. He said “Roblay had a bit of an edge,” however they wrote letters back and forth to each other for over 30 years. The Lodge’s family style dinners were included in the price and so written in stone, you could tell what day it was by what was for dinner. Sally Follen described the McMullins’ system of kitchen duties. Bud did meats and vegetables, Roblay did

bread, salads, and desserts, often a spread of pies, two or three cakes, berries, and Lake Creek Chocolate Sauce (more on that later).

Longtime guest and writer, Juli Tantum took a deep dive in the culinary history of Lake Creek Lodge in her book, “Oregon Lodge Cooking.” After reminiscing with friends she said, “We realized that food was the tangible part of our past that made Lake Creek Lodge so magical.” Juli weaves history around the kitchen’s classic recipes, resurrected from yellowed cards, scribbles, and memories.

On the arrival day of Saturday, the menu was led by biscuits and crispy oven fried chicken. Juli researched the special two-step technique used. On Sundays Bud grilled New York steaks by the pond, often in his favorite look, bare chested. A side of polenta made with milk had a generous topping of melted sharp cheddar.

The rest of the week progressed in its steady fashion, Monday to Friday: Pork Loin and Roblay’s Orange Bread, Popovers and Prime Rib, Leg of Lamb with Fresh Mint Sauce, Honey-Glazed Ham and Scalloped Potatoes, ending with Cinnamon Sticky

See MCMULLIN on page 23

MCMULLIN:

Local icon was a complex personality

Continued from page 22

buns, Grilled Salmon, Walla Walla Onion-Rice casserole, and Ice cream Sundaes. On Saturday mornings Buttermilk, Cornmeal, and Sourdough Pancakes marked the goodbyes till next season. Roblay had several salad recipes deemed “famous,” including one with red onion and oranges, and another with homemade mayo and grated egg.

In 1953, newspapers noted the influx of tourists into tiny Camp Sherman, especially Californians. One article remarked that indoor plumbing was no longer a novelty in the area.

But it was a summer place, and on September 15 each year Bud and Roblay would pack up and drive south to Palm Springs where

they managed another small resort. This was the rhythm of their life until on the trip south in 1955, Bud had a heart attack and passed away. Roblay kept the resort going and brought in a series of chefs for the kitchen. She ruled over a staff of “summer girls” and a few guys who cleaned the cabins and helped take care of guests. Roblay wrote beautiful letters, saying to her friend Mary Follen, “Everything is so green and delicate – I’m in a state of euphoria most of the time. This spring I found particularly fascinating, like being born into a new world… The white blossoming wild spirea accenting the stream...Never have we had so great a glory. It must have been the winter flood that spread the darling things.”

Tantum reflected on Roblays complex nature: “I’ve come to appreciate how Roblay encompassed two distinct realms—the resilient nature lover alongside the

petite and elegant connoisseur of fine things. This blend of seemingly opposite qualities underpinned Roblay’s effectiveness in managing Lake Creek Lodge so well. She loved and respected Camp Sherman’s natural beauty — the birds, flowers, forget-me-nots by the creek, horses — and she also loved stylish clothes, Parisian jewelry, hats, and leopard-print leggings (in later years). She had a sharp wit, sense of style, and clear-eyed vision. She had high standards and therefore we all rose to them. Roblay didn’t suffer fools.” When Roblay sold the resort in 1974 to the “Ladies from OSU,” two retired professors, she negotiated a lifetime tenancy in Cabin #11. She continued to serve as the “hostess with the mostess,” greeting guests in heels, hats, and finery until she passed away at the age of 91 in 1998. Lake

Creek Lodge continues today with changes since Roblay’s time but maybe a bit of her lingers on in the heart and soul of the place. For a sweet taste from one of those long-ago summer nights try making a batch of easy and decadent Lake Creek Chocolate Sauce for your next ice cream sundae (thanks to Juli Tantum, “Oregon Lodge Cooking”).

Just melt 4 ounces Baker’s

Unsweetened Chocolate over low heat, stir in 1 cup brown sugar and 1/2-cup heavy cream, cook, whisking until thick. Cool and refrigerate and reheat for serving. (I used a double boiler.)

If you were at Roblay’s table on a warm Sunday night, this bittersweet chocolate sauce would top a layered ice cream cake, on the deck, under the pines, wildflowers in bloom.

CATTLE: Breed is growing in popularity across Sisters

Continued from page 1

Sisters under the direction of Catherine Hayden. One of their iconic animals is George, a Highland, who is the inspiration for their apparel offerings.

George was not rescued as one might think when imagining an animal sanctuary. George was acquired if for no other reason that like all Highlands, he is just downright lovable, the perfect brand ambassador for the sanctuary.

George came from the May Ranch on Indian Ford Road, one of the largest breeders of Highland cows in Sisters Country. Their current herd is 18 but they have had as many as 43 on their property.

According to the American Highland Cattle Association, the Highland breed has lived for centuries in the rugged remote Scottish Highlands. The extremely harsh conditions created a process of natural selection, where only the fittest and most adaptable animals survived to carry on the breed. In addition to red and black, yellow, dun, white, brindle, and silver are also considered traditional colors.

This “Grande Old Breed” can be traced to the first herd book being published in 1885 by the Highland Cattle Society in Scotland. Archaeological evidence of the Highland breed goes back to the sixth century, with written records existing from the twelfth century. The first recorded importation into the United States occurred in the late 1890s when western cattlemen recognized the need to improve the hardiness of their herds.

The double hair, shaggy coat (long, coarse outer layer and soft wooly inner layer) is one of the most notable differences between Highlands and other breeds. The coat reduces the need for expensive barns and shelters.

Due to the double hair coat, this breed does not need a heavy layer of backfat for insulation.

This allows the animal to marble naturally on low input forage while producing lean, low-fat, high-quality cuts of beef.

Highlands, called “Hairy Coos” in Scotland, shed out earlier in the spring and produce less hair in a warmer climate, making them suitable for a variety of environments.

Highlands have a long history of living with humans. They are easy to work with despite their long horns. The horns are used primarily for knocking down

brush to graze, predator control, and scratching.

Awbrey Cyrus splits her time between Junction City and Cloverdale where she has a fledgling Highland breeding operation.

“I was attracted to the Scottish Highland cattle because of their popularity. But the reason why they are so popular is because they are a small stature breed that is very easy going.

“For a small hobby farmer — someone not trying to make a living off the farm alone — they are perfect. You can brush them, work them easily, and be around their calves. Plus, the fuzzy faces are adorable,” Cyrus told The Nugget when we visited her to see her operation and meet a newborn calf.

“I primarily raise beef cattle and range them out all summer. So, I wanted something cute and fuzzy for my kids to be in the pasture

year-round. I have two bonus kids that are 12, as well as a 2 1/2-year-old and 9-monthold. So docile was important. Even though my kiddos do learn animal safety from a very young age,” she added.

Cyrus is a seventh-generation Oregonian and grew up farming. She spent autumns gathering 200 cow/calf pairs off range land on horseback and loved it. She has a flock of 65+ club lamb ewes –lambs bred for 4H and FFA kids to show competitively.

Cyrus might just as well be running a petting zoo with all her goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, geese, donkeys, cats, dogs, and horses. Her horses include minis for the kids, quarter horses to use on cattle, and Belgian draft horses that she employs for her horse and carriage business, North Pine Carriage.

Martin says to expect more sightings in Sisters as the breeds popularity grows.

Nugget Poetry Corner

Movement – Everywhere!

ByEdieJones

Life... it ebbs and flows, with change always present. Or—it stagnates and feels stuck.

The movement that gives life, life, is needed.

The ripples that are there daily create the waves that enrich. Swelling and erupting over the sand of our being, then quietly resting—before it flows back, giving us another day.

Movement is all around us, wherever your mind is carried.

Curves of arches, flutters of leaves.

The melody of words or the music that accompanies.

Movement goes up—down—sideways—angled. It adds form to our daily life, continually propelling us forward.

Movement is in everything around us.

Even the bench that sits straight and still— its lines cause our eyes to travel.

The wind in trees, often subtle with barely a slight swirl, or branches whipped by a tornado into a frenzy.

A hummingbird’s wings move so fast we can’t see them. Momentum suspends this tiny life to drink the nectar of life.

Or a school of fish, swirling in unison, dashing here—there— avoiding the jaws of a shark.

A flower unfolds in minute increments— so slow, undetected by the human eye, until—slow-motion photography reveals its glory.

Movement is all around us.

Even in winter—when grass lies void of color, life is seen—as green slowly creeps upward.

Nature flows through the seasons, the same as life dances— from birth, to the day our soul transcends to the universe above.

When movement stops, death and decaying compact life, causing existence to cease. And yet—there it cannot remain.

Life after death is found in every memory, every recognition of another’s former presence, every influence on history.

Life goes forward and movement continues.

Perspective

ByAlissaCowan

A single item, being one in the same

Can be taken in such different ways

Take a plant, for example, so elegant and refined

The perfect completion to your collection divine

You’ve researched and hunted for that perfect one

And now you’ve found it, your garden is done!

This special plant, all be it the same

To another, can be a great big pain

“it’s so finicky and prickly, the flowers really smell too much water, or not enough? A yellow leaf? Oh well.”

It’s bothersome and burdensome, I can’t just let it die

Should I throw it away- or give it away? What if they ask why?

Now how about a dog? In opinion, you know it’s true

‘A man’s best friend’- in one point of view

He is so fluffy with the sweetest disposition anyone could meet

He’s well mannered and loves on everyone he greets

He keeps me company and knows exactly how I feel

He smiles when he wags his tail and even cleans the floor at the end of each meal

But to the next person, the same big pup

Is rambunctious, slobbery and always interrupts

“He barks and he bites, to ‘greet me’ at the door

Stinky and shedding, four-paws belong on the floor!”

No hugs and kisses from Big ol’ Blue

No one loves him as much as You do!

Now consider how harsh we can be

When we talk of people, both you and me

How big or how small, how talkative or not

All about their money, what they have and haven’t got

“She asks too many questions, her laugh is too loud

She’s unusually tall and sticks out in a crowd”

But the same person, through a different eye we see

Is caring and compassionate, a trusted friend indeed

She is generous and loving, filled with joy and light

She makes an impression, she listens and stands for you with might

Two perspectives, opposing sides about the same person

We worry about their opinions, which makes matters worsen

Be your best self and know who you are

Let them think what they think, although it is hard

Forgive and love often, don’t doubt who you are

Be honest as a person, keep truth in your heart

For what they think is not yours to own, who wants “the latest news”

Stay on track and keep your course, focus on you just being You

Col. John Turner of Sisters. A scholarship to support aspiring pilots has been established in his name.

AVIATOR: Scholarship honors Sisters World War II veteran

Continued from page 3

The scholarship will be awarded to individuals who show “exceptional promise in their pursuit of a career in aviation and will be selected based on their academic achievements, passion for flying and commitment to safety.”

The deadline for the application is May 15.

The award is open to students 16 and older who are current Sisters High School students or graduates from Sisters High. Funds from the award are for financial assistance to cover tuition, flight training, and other related expenses. The award will be a minimum of $1,000 and further donations to enhance the amount awarded are welcomed.

“This fund is unique to SistersGRO and we are pleased to help facilitate this generous gift to our students from Sisters High,” said Executive Director Regan Roberts.

Organizers of the fund wrote, “The donors hope to keep the spirit of John Turner alive by fostering the next generation of pilots who will continue to elevate the field of aviation with the same enthusiasm and commitment that Colonel Turner exemplified throughout his life.”

The applications is available online at https://sisters gro.awardspring.com.

Donations can be mailed to SistersGRO, PO Box 1546, Sisters, OR 97759.

WORD OF THE DAY…

Aplomb

/ə'pläm, ə'pləm/ Self-confidence or assurance, especially when in a demanding situation; implies a manifest selfpossession in trying or challenging situations.

TENNIS: Lady Outlaws are battling hard on

the court

Continued from page 12

aggressive ground strokes.

Fenn said, “Sophie’s forehand had too much pace for her opponent to handle. Her forehand is beautiful to watch. She has power and a competitive drive, and it was fun to watch her play her game.”

Two of the Lady Outlaws’ matches did go into tiebreakers.

Panozzo (No. 3 singles) lost her first set, came back in the second set with a 7-3 tiebreaker, and then turned around for another extended 10 point tie break, that Coach Fenn said was mentally exhausting. Unfortunately, she fell 7-10 in the tiebreaker, in a match that could have gone either way.

Fenn said, “That was like playing two overtime’s in a

row in basketball. Isabella’s game is getting better every match she plays.

The No. 2 doubles team, Hudson Jacobs and Molly Fredman (both first year players) lost in the third set tiebreak 5-10.

“Fredman’s consistent court coverage and Jacobs’ awesome powerful lefty forehand is a winning combination,” stated Fenn. “Both girls have speed around the court which is discouraging for their opponents. I see them getting better as they play more matches and understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Playing with confidence and consistency will result in wins.”

Fenn told The Nugget that everyone is competing and the best is yet to come.

The Lady Outlaws were to play Irrigon Tuesday, April 22 at Crook County. Thursday the 24th at home against Sherman, and Saturday, they play at home against Umatilla.

FUNDRAISER: Science Club is supporting local education

Continued from page 3

Center in Seattle, and Bend Science Station that would be made possible by these additional funds. Teachers have also requested funds to attend Science teacher conferences and purchase updated classroom equipment, as these expenses have recently taken a back seat due to the District’s funding freeze.

“The Science Club raises funds for science activities that are not covered by other grants or the District to enhance science curricula in the schools. The schools have an infusion of funds through the arts, music, and sports….we want science to have an equal part,” said David Duehren, board president.

The Sisters Science Club has provided seed money to projects such as Seed to Table, the Aviation Program, Greenhouse class, and the Fred Hutch field trips. Board Member and STEAM Teacher, Jocelyn Blevins, pointed out that “Science teachers representing each of the schools are excited to collaborate with the Sisters Science Club in determining how monies are allocated and spent.”

The Sisters Science club is a 501(c)(3), tax exempt organization and donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be provided. FivePine is located at 1021 E. Desperado Trail, Sisters.

Register at www.sisters scienceclub.org. For those unable to attend, donations may be made at the bottom of the page.

PARTNERS IN REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION

Publishing May 28, 2025

REAL ESTATE: Finding a realtor that understands an individual’s needs, with a stable of professional resources at the ready is invaluable in making the process of home buying smooth and stress-free...banks, mortgage lenders, title companies, real esta photographers, appraisers, inspectors, property management, insurance agents, and home stagers.

ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS:

CONSTRUCTION: Whether residential or commercial, whatever the size and style of a construction project, building experts can be found in this guide…architects, interior designers, building contractors, excavators, landscaping contractors, log home specialists, heating and plumbing contractors, roofers, painters, fencing, window/door/floor suppliers, lighting designers, hot tubs, and more.

Partners in Real Estate & Construction is a publication of the The Nugget Newspaper

The Nugget Newspaper’s PARTNERS IN REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION

is a pull-out, magazine-style section in The Nugget which is readily available to all residents in the Sisters School District and free on newsstands throughout Sisters and surrounding areas, plus published online for year-round access.

Advertisements are available in four sizes (full-page, half-page, quarter-page, or sixthpage), accompanied by a story written by The Nugget’s professional writers equal to the ad size selected.

Space Reservation & Ad Content Submission Deadline is 5/2/25. Call or email to schedule your advertising 541-549-9941

vicki@nuggetnews.com

The Nugget Newpaper CommunityDonorJournalism Wall

“Love The Nugget.”

— Dana Meyer

“Good reporting and good community. Thanks.”

— David Lytle

“I always look for ward to ‘Nugget Wednesday!’ Thank you for a g reat paper that creates ‘community.’”

— Cher yl Pellerin

“We value The Nugget! Sisters would be a ver y different, far less livable and enjoyable town were it not for The Nugget. It supports community building, social connection, and civic engagement.”

— Mar y Orton & John R ahm

“Susan and I are delighted to support the outstanding work of The Nugget staff and this is a g reat way to keep abreast of latest local events when we are away.”

— Eric & Susan Olson

“In this climate of fake news, social media news, and the loss of local newspapers, I want to see our incredible local Nugget Newspaper continue to thrive. When I moved to Sisters a little over a year ago (as a recent widow), reading The Nugget to see all the activities (and there are MANY) around town, helped me immensely to ‘get out there.’ As a result, I volunteer at the wonderful Habitat Thrif t Store, volunteer at the Sisters Museum, and now find myself on two community boards. I love Sisters and a big part of that is staying abreast of all the goings on by reading The Nugget. Thank you to all the freelancers. My daughter happens to be a freelance editor so supporting this profession is a no brainer.”

— Gayle Todd

“The Nugget was, and remains, one of the prime reasons we moved to and have settled in Sisters — along with the Sisters Folk Festival, Paulina Springs Books, Roundhouse Foundation, The Barn, F unky Fauna Brewing, and Fika Sisters Coffeehouse. The Nugget just completes the community!”

— Scott R Bowler

A supporting contribution for community journalism is a way for readers who appreciate and enjoy The Nugget to directly support our coverage of the news of the Sisters community. The Nugget does not charge for individual copies of the newspaper freely distributed on racks throughout Sisters Countr y at businesses and post offices. (Direct to mailbox deliver y does require a paid subscription that covers the costs of deliver y.) F unds from suppor ting contributions are allocated directly to paying our freelancers for their stories and photog raphy.

You choose the amount of support you wish to provide. Set up an online donation at donorbox.org/nugget-community-jour nalism-suppor t or mail a check to PO Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759, or stop by our office at 442 E. Main Ave. (we love to connect with our readers).

SHERIFF: Van der Kamp placed on Brady List due to allegations

Continued from page 1

findings. The report stated: “After a comprehensive investigation by our office, it was determined that Sheriff Vander Kamp failed to adhere to ethical and legal standards required of law enforcement officers. On Monday, April 7, 2025, Sheriff Vander Kamp was officially placed on the Deschutes County District Attorney Office’s Brady list. A ‘Brady list’ or “Brady index’ [is] a list of law enforcement officers that a prosecutor’s office will not call as witnesses in criminal proceedings due to concerns about those officers’ credibility.”

Van der Kamp’s curriculum vitae (CV) was presented in court to establish his credentials as an expert witness. The CV first provided in 2013 stated that van der Kamp had graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree and received a master’s degree from the University of Arizona. According to Gunnels, a staff member noted that van der Kamp’s Voter’s Pamphlet information from the November 2024 election stated that van der Kamp received his bachelor’s degree from University of Phoenix and a master’s from Trident University. The information in the Voter’s Pamphlet was vetted and verified as accurate.

Gunnels reported that he offered van der Kamp and his attorney an opportunity to explain the discrepancy between the Voter’s Pamphlet information and the CV he had provided in sworn testimony. According the Gunnels report:

“The explanation given during that meeting was that Kent Vander Kamp had not in fact graduated from the University of Southern California or the University of Arizona. The District Attorney was told that Vander Kamp was claiming that the curriculum vitae submitted in the previously mentioned 2013 trial had been prepared by someone other than Vander Kamp and that he had simply failed to read it thoroughly before he submitted that document to the Oregon State Police and before he testified at trial.”

The investigative report also includes transcripts in which van der Kamp verifies that the CV is his and that he prepared it. Gunnels’ investigation found that:

“Deputy Sheriff Vander Kamp testified that his CV was a true and accurate depiction (including his educational background)…

The document that Deputy Sheriff Vander Kamp authenticated under oath listed that he graduated from USC with a Bachelor of Science and a Masters (sic) degree from UA with a degree in Business Management. This is incontrovertibly false based on the records we received from USC and UA. Furthermore, Deputy Sheriff Vander Kamp misled the prosecutor, the court and the jury by knowingly authoring and authenticating the veracity of a fraudulent document.”

In another case, van der Kamp verbally stated his CV including the false information:

Q: And can you tell us a little bit about your general background and education?

A: In 1995, I graduated the University of Southern California with a degree in business management. In 1997, I graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in — or a master’s degree in business management.

In response to the Brady

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listing, van der Kamp released a statement:

“I am deeply disappointed by the recent decision by District Attorney Steve Gunnels to place me on the Brady list. While I respectfully dispute the reasoning behind this action, I understand the seriousness of the situation and the impact it may have on the Sheriff’s Office and the public’s trust.

“Since taking office, I have worked tirelessly to restore transparency, integrity, and fiscal responsibility within our agency. We’ve made significant progress together — but I also recognize that leadership includes facing challenges head-on

I am deeply disappointed by the recent decision by District Attorney Steve Gunnels to place me on the Brady list.

— Kent van der Kamp

and making difficult decisions when they are in the best interest of the community and the Sheriff’s Office.

“At this time, I am working closely with my command team, legal counsel, and county officials to fully understand the implications of this decision and carefully evaluate the best path forward for the Sheriff’s Office and Deschutes County. I remain committed to serving this community and to ensuring that the work we’ve begun continues with strength and stability.

“I ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this moment, and I will provide further updates as decisions are made in the days ahead.”

In the wake of the DA’s action and the release of the report, there have been calls for Sheriff van der Kamp to resign (see opinion column, page 20)

The Nugget reached van der Kamp on Monday morning. Asked if he disputes the findings of the Gunnels

Brady index’ [is] a list of law enforcement officers that a prosecutor’s office will not call as witnesses in criminal proceedings due to concerns about those officers’ credibility. — DA Steve Gunnels

report, he said, “the description of it is inaccurate.”

He said that “nothing has changed,” and that he would be issuing a further statement on Tuesday, April 22.

Editor’s note: This is a developing story and will be updated. Sheriff van der Kamp has spelled his name alternately as Kent van der Kamp and Kent Vander Kamp. His current preference is van der Kamp. This story has retained the Vander Kamp spelling when directly quoting the documents of the Gunnels report.

541-420-8448 dyerconstructionrenovation.com

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AUTHORS: Event was held at Sisters’ book store

Sisters enables PNBA to “take a smaller, lower-pressure event to more areas of our membership region,” said executive director Brian Juenemann. He envisions each pop-up as “a kind of destination, work-vacation event for members who might want to go see another part of the region and visit bookstores.”

Though Juenemann has loved the Sisters area his whole life, many PNBA members were unfamiliar with it.

“There are so many people involved who have never been here, who’ve rolled into town and said, ‘Oh my God why have I not been here before?’”

Portland-based fantasy author Evan Leikam is no stranger to the territory. His debut novel, “Anji Kills a King” (Tor Books), reflects Leikam’s deep relationship with nature.

Growing up in Central Oregon, he said, “I was left to my own devices quite a bit as a kid. I lived on a plot of land with five acres of untended forest and my parents wanted me out of their faces, so I spent a lot of time outside and using my imagination to entertain myself. What better place to do that than a field of lava rock and pine trees? It’s kind of a fantasy world in and of itself.”

Pausing to sign books and answer questions, he returned to our conversation.

“Living in a place with such wide skies and beautiful flora and fauna...maybe I’m a little bit too descriptive of trees, but Tolkien was, too. Trees are so cool! They’re just minding their own business.”

The pop-up gathering struck Leikam as “a really great idea. Having booksellers and people who are involved with the industry coming in and seeing authors face to face is just fantastic.”

Much of the communication around getting a book out into the world takes place in the form of “homogenized texts and terse emails,” he said.

The theme of nature pervaded a number of works. Children’s book “You Make the World” (Scholastic) by Mượn Thị Văn, beautifully illustrated by Phùng Nguyên Quang and Huynh Kim Liên, shows a parent and child kayaking, camping and reveling under vast skies of stars and sunsets.

Justin Hocking, raised in Colorado and living in Portland, brought “A Field

There are so many people involved who have never been here, who’ve rolled into town and said, ‘Oh my God why have I not been here before?

— Brian Juenemann

Guide to the Subterranean: Reclaiming the Deep Earth and Our Deepest Selves” (Counterpoint Press). His memoir engages with personal themes of the American West along with history and ecology.

Local romance novelist Catherine Cowles was on hand to sign copies of “Beautiful Exile” (Sourcebooks).

“I actually started writing my very first book right after moving to Sisters in 2017,” she said. “I think that Sisters is the perfect place for creatives — the nature, the peacefulness, the amazing community.”

She appreciated the event, especially her two-minute commute.

“It’s really fun to meet the people who are selling your books and sharing them with readers. It’s very rarely, unless you’re out on tour, that you get to meet and chat with booksellers face to face.”

As for the first two writers we encountered: Diane Schaffer worked at a winery in the Santa Cruz, California, area; “Mortal Zin” (Sibylline Press) is her first mystery novel.

The lighthearted horror novelist responsible for “Girl in the Creek” (Tor Books) is longtime Portland resident Wendy N. Wagner. She said she used to write in other genres and discovered that the best scenes were “the scary parts.” Her new novel combines mystery with “eco-horror” and takes place around Mt. Hood.

Circling back to Evan Leikam: he planned to attend some PNBA pop-up events in Bend the following day, where he still has family.

“It’s so beautiful,” he sighed. “I wanna come back. I’m spoiled.

“Let’s see how sales go,” he said with a laugh, gesturing at a stack of his books.

Moving to Central Oregon is no easy prospect these days.

“If you want an $800,000 double-wide, you know where to go,” he said.

To learn more about PNBA, the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association, see pnba.org. Its fall trade show will take place in Spokane, Washington, this coming September.

(reg. $249)

through 5/1/25

ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

CLASSIFIED RATES

COST: $3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate.

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PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. VISA & MasterCard accepted. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four (4) weeks and upon approval of account application.

CATEGORIES:

102 Commercial Rentals

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. AVAILABLE NOW

Prime retail space in The Gallery Annex Bld. next to The Hen's Tooth. Approx. 2,000 sq. ft. Contact Jim at 1-208-318-4323

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

~ Sisters Vacation Rentals ~ Private Central OR vac. rentals, Property Management Services 541-977-9898

www.SistersVacation.com

Downtown Vacation Rentals

Popular 1 and 2 Bedroom SistersVacationRentals.net

Great pricing. 503-730-0150

202 Firewood

• SPRING 2025 • NEW DISCOUNT PRICES

SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS

DAVE ELPI – FIREWOOD • SINCE 1976 • Fuel Reduction Forestry Doug Fir – Lodgepole –Hardwood – Juniper – Fir

DRIVE-IN WOOD SALES

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HARDWOOD IN STOCK FOR 2025 - DRY WHITE

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205 Garage & Estate Sales

Moving sale, artist's home. April 26 and 27, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Outdoor furniture, garden tools, ladders, pressure washer, blower, children's books and toys, art & nature books, Ridgeline stock wheels and winter tires, and kevlar canoe (cosmetic damage), etc. 69157 Lariat (Tollgate), Sisters' checks and cash only.

Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions! Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths? Locally owned & operated by... Daiya 541-480-2806

Sharie 541-771-1150

301 Vehicles

We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397

Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com

CLASSIC CAR STORAGE! Oversized, lights/power, $275/m • 541-419-2502 403 Pets

Cavapoo F2B puppies for sale. Please visit www.saunders hideawayhomestead.com or call 541-829-8429 for more information.

Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875

I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Home of Brando's Natural Dog Biscuits • 541-306-7551 • Julie

500 Services

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

GEORGE’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

“A Well Maintained Septic System Protects the Environment” 541-549-2871

CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS

Bend Window Works, LLC is offering a 10% discount on new window coverings. FREE in-home consultation. Same day in-home repair services available. New and repaired blinds make rentals look better! Contact us at 541-383-3455 or andy@bendblinds.com.

• DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279

Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul! 541-719-8475

Caregiver - 15 years experience -- working in Sisters. Great references. 503-274-0214

501 Computers & Communications

3 Sisters TeleNetworks, LLC

Extend internet to shop, security cameras, Starlink. CCB #191099 541-306-0729

502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

GORDON’S LAST TOUCH Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY

Member Better Business Bureau • Bonded & Insured • Serving Central Oregon Since 1980 Call 541-549-3008

M & J CARPET CLEANING Area rugs, upholstery, tile & dryer-vent cleaning. Established & family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090

504 Handyman

3 Sisters Handyman Services 20+ years experience No job too large or small. Snow removal services available.

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Call Nate 907-748-4100 sistershandyman@gmail.com CCB# 253556

600 Tree Service & Forestry

TimberStandImprovement.net

Tree Removal & Pruning TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825

– All You Need Maintenance –Tree removal, property thinning & clearing, forestry mastication & mulching, stump grinding. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122

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

SUDOKU

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

601 Construction INSPIRED CUSTOM HOMES www.teeharborconstruction.com 541-213-8736 • CCB#75388

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

Earthwood Timber

• Recycled fir and pine beams

• Mantels and accent timbers

• Sawmill/woodshop services EWDevCoLLC@gmail.com

Level: Moderate Answer: Page 31

Construction & Renovation

Custom Residential Projects

All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448

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

Custom Homes Additions - Remodels

Residential Building Projects

Becke William Pierce

CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384 Beckewpcontracting@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

602 Plumbing & Electric SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.

“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling

• New Construction

• Water Heaters 541-549-4349

Residential and Commercial

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

CCB #87587

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

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

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

Pat Burke

LOCALLY OWNED

CRAFTSMAN BUILT

CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.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

TOO MUCH STUFF?

Advertise your excess with an ad in The Nugget!

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

Flow State Property Improvements LLC

Spring landscape cleanups & debris removal, pine needle removal, bark and gravel refreshing.

Contact Steve at 541-316-9959 or email flowstatepi@gmail.com.

Meadowlark Views

Mowing & Trimming, Fertilization, Yard Clean Up, Landscape Material Spreading www.meadowlarkviews.com

541-904-5506

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

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

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

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

STEVE'S HAULING

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

607 Irrigation

Home/Commercial/Agriculture

New - Maintenance - Repair — licensed, bonded, insured — CCB#189719 • LCB#100529 LCP#16884 541-316-9259 rockspringsirr@gmail.com

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

802 Help Wanted

We are Hiring!

Join our summer camp culture at Lake Creek Lodge. We're recruiting for: Housekeeping, Barista & Maintenance/ Landscaping. PT/FT. We are proud to offer flexible schedules and excellent compensation. www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW Forest Service Rd. 1419, Camp Sherman Landscapers needed. Dependable, exp. preferred. F/T work, good pay. Call Abel's Landscaping 541-815-6740

DYNAMIC SALES PERSON for print and digital marketing in Sisters and Central Oregon. Work with our team in Sisters, Oregon, to partner with local businesses in marketing their products and services to local and regional audiences in printed publications The Nugget Newspaper, Spirit of Central Oregon magazine, and Sisters Oregon Guide, and on multiple digital properties. Active engagement with the local community a must. Base pay plus commission in growing market, employer-matched 401k, health insurance stipend, and fuel allowance.

Send résumé and cover letter to jess@nuggetnews.com, or stop by The Nugget to introduce yourself! •

SERVICE TO PROVIDE? BUSINESS TO PROMOTE? VEHICLE FOR SALE? HOUSE TO RENT? OFFICE TO LEASE? 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

CITY OF SISTERS – JOB

ANNOUNCEMENT

Public Works Utility Assistant Pay: $19.59-$29.63 Hourly Temporary (seasonal) Full-time; 40 hours per week

Closes: May 8, 2025; Open until Filled; Anticipated Start Date: June 1, 2025 (or sooner)

• 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

Alpine Landscape Maintenance

An All-Electric Landscape Company.

Text/Call Paul 541.485.2837 alpine.landscapes@icloud.com

Eastern Cascade Solutions Landscaping & Construction

www.easterncascadesolutions. com • 541-233-7195

LCB #9958 • CCB #222039

– 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

Join our team at Sundance Shoes. Friday-Monday 11 to 4 No experience necessary. Friendly & happy person. Hourly rate $20. 541-549-4240

– C L A S S I F I E D S –It pays to advertise in The Nugget, your local "Yellow Pages" for Sisters! Deadline to place your ad is Monday before noon... Call 541-549-9941

Seasonal Landscaping labor. Pay based on experience. Contact Alesha or Austin 541-419-5122

Brand 33 at Aspen Lakes Golf Course

We’re hiring for the following positions: Sous chef / lead cook, line cook, prep cook, servers, beverage cart, and dishwasher. Year around Janitor position as well. Competitive wages DOE. Seasonal FT / PT. Email accounting@aspenlakes.com or call 541-549-1882

Position Summary: The City is accepting applications for a full-time Public Works Utility Assistant. This position is responsible for the upkeep and general maintenance of City parks, right of ways, and public facilities. This position performs a variety of tasks including mowing, weeding, landscaping, irrigation system upkeep, streetscaping, and cleaning public restrooms. The role also supports maintenance across various city systems such as transportation, water distribution, wastewater collection, and solid waste and recycling. The ideal candidate will be able to perform duties with general supervision, maintain positive working relationships, and contribute to the overall functionality and appearance of city properties. Position requirements, skills, and qualifications include the following: Possession of, or required to obtain a valid Oregon drivers license within 30 days of hire. Must have a clean driving record. Educational Background/Experience High School diploma or equivalent; General knowledge of irrigation, park maintenance, and

CLASSIFIEDS

equipment and ability to operate small tools and equipment.

A complete position description is available online at www.ci.sisters.or.us.

To Apply

To apply, an applicant must complete and submit the City’s employment application along with the applicant’s resume to the City no later than 12:00 p.m. on May 9, 2025; provided, however, the City may accept applications and resumes after May 9, 2025, if in the City’s best interest. This position will remain open until filled. The City’s application for employment and veteran’s preference form is available online at www.ci.sisters.or.us.

Application and resume must be submitted in any one of the following ways:

Email: joneill@ci.sisters.or.us

Mail: PO Box 39, Sisters, Oregon 97759

In-Person Delivery: 520 E Cascade Ave, Sisters, OR 97759

Please contact Finance Director Joe O’Neill if you have any questions regarding the position or application process. Mr. O’Neill may be contacted via telephone at 541-549-5222 or email at joneill@ci.sisters.or.us

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, and/or any other legally protected status. The City is a drug-free workplace. Individuals who require accommodation relating to the application process should request the accommodation in advance so that necessary arrangements can be made.

– Advertise with The Nugget –541-549-9941

999 Public Notice

Notice to Big Lake Community Big Lake Youth Camp is requesting assistance from the Department of Defense Innovative Readiness Training Program, including various construction, hazard tree removal, mechanical, and electrical projects.

Work will take place in 2025. For questions, please contact office@biglake.org within 30 days after publication of this notice. Failure to file comments within this time frame will be considered a waiver of objections to military assistance for this project.

C L A S S I F I E D S

ACL injury — prevention worth more than cure

By Steve Lundeberg Correspondent

A study by Oregon State University (OSU) researchers, involving an analysis of high school soccer players, suggests that incorporating a lower extremity injury prevention program results in fewer anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and a big reduction in health care expenses.

The study showed that every dollar spent on preventing ACL tears saves more than seven times that much in treatment and rehabilitation costs, which the researchers note could mean a huge return on investment for insurance companies willing to fund lower extremity injury prevention programs (IPP).

The scientists note that

the incident rate of ACL tears continues to rise, as does high school athletes’ risk of sustaining the injury. The ACL, which runs diagonally in the middle of the knee, connects the femur to the tibia, providing rotational stability and keeping the tibia from sliding in front of the femur. ACL injuries are common in sports that involve jumping, sudden stops, and rapid changes of direction.

Led by Tao Li, an associate professor in the OSU College of Health, the study looked at injury data from boys and girls who played high school soccer in the U.S. during the 2018-19 school year. The year was chosen because it was the most recent for which estimates of both participation numbers and ACL tears were available.

According to the 201819 High School Athletics Participation Survey, 853,182 students participated in soccer that year – 459,077 boys and 394,105 girls. A study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine estimated there were 15,000 soccer-related ACL injuries that year, and that more than 70% of such injuries occurred in girls from 2007 to 2019.

Taking both public and private insurers into account, Li and collaborators Collin Peterson and Marc Norcross, also of the College of Health, found a return on investment of $7.51 for every dollar spent on an injury prevention program, suggesting a lower extremity IPP can be a valuable alternative to a conventional warmup routine. Jump squats, lateral hops

PNW fish under multiple threats

By Alex Baumhardt Oregon Capital Chronicle

Some already threatened cold-water fish species in the Northwest will not only face shrinking habitat from climate change but will face growing pressure from invasive fish species fleeing their own warming and dwindling waters, according to modeling from researchers at Oregon State University.

The findings were part of a study published in the journal Global Change Biology by fisheries professor Guillermo Giannico, associate fisheries professor Ivan Arismendi and graduate student Arif Jan.

The three found that climate change is likely to compel all kinds of species migration that could lead to increased predation, competition and some localized extinctions of once native species in the Northwest and globally.

Giannico said their models

can be run on most species in the world. But for their recent study, the three zeroed in on the northern migration of non-native smallmouth bass and northern pike into threatened and endangered native redband and bull trout habitat in the Northwest. All four of the species are likely to lose habitat as climate change accelerates and are likely to seek homes in colder water at higher elevations.

They created maps using ecological data that indicate the breadth of territory where each species lives and then modeled the impact of changing conditions such as higher temperatures and drought projected through 2070 to see how that would influence the range of all four species’ movement and overlap.

“We forecast how these species would respond to those changing conditions by disappearing from certain regions that will be too warm

for them, and appearing in others that maybe today are too cold, but they would be more suitable in the future,” Giannico said. “Because not all shifts are equal, there will be areas where they will be more crowded together, and they would overlap more, and areas where they wouldn’t overlap that much.”

Of great concern is the migration of aggressive and predatory northern pike into redband and bull trout territory, and the increasing likelihood the two will overlap more frequently.

“They all shift, but they end up shifting in a way that the amount of overlap in their distribution is going to be greater,” Giannico explained.

“It’s like you have less room to avoid nasty people at the party, and you end up being cornered in the same part of the room with the same people you don’t enjoy, and you’re all packed in the wrong place

and shuffles, hip abductions, single-leg excursions, and high-knee running drills are among the exercises that help make an athlete less prone to ACL injury.

The study showed that had all of the nation’s high school soccer players during the study period been training under a lower extremity injury prevention plan, the total monetary benefit would have been greater than $60 million. Expenses associated with IPP implementation include teaching materials and the cost of training coaches to instruct their players.

“Our study may incentivize policy makers and stakeholders and facilitate public-private cooperation to increase adoption of injury prevention programs,” Li said.

for puzzle on page 29

with the wrong companion.” Giannico said researchers have long separately studied how climate change will compel the migration of some species and how native species respond to the introduction of invasive species. The modeling done by the Oregon State scientists is an effort to combine the two, and to show how species’ habitats will overlap as climate change compels both native and nonnative species in an area to migrate and cohabitate.

The researchers fear that this increased negative interaction could lead to local extinctions of some native salmonids, similar to those occurring among shrinking populations of bull and rainbow trout from invasive species in southeastern Alaska, Giannico said.

Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 courtesy of https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

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