The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLVIII No. 27 // 2025-07-02

Big Ponderoo delivers great music and good vibes

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

It ended Sunday night just as it began Friday —to thunderous applause. The third Big Ponderoo music festival delivered a musical experience which delighted — thrilled, actually — appreciative crowds with more than 20 hours of emotion-filled music by 41 artists performing in 15 acts.

“I’m worn out,” said Matt Waller from Yakima, Washington. “I’m just flat full to the gills. It’s not just the quantity, it’s the quality. How is it possible to get that much good music in two days?”

Waller’s sentiment was repeated time and time again as The Nugget asked attendees to describe the experience.

The staging was idyllic, set on a soft, verdant lawn in a tree-lined park under clear skies and warm temperatures. Village Green with its accompanying playground

MMV: Hearings officer recommends approval

Deschutes County Hearings Officer Tommy Brooks has recommended the Deschutes County Commissioners approve the Comprehensive Plan amendment and a zone change requested by McKenzie Meadow Village LLC (MMV).

The 58-acre property north of Sisters High School and west of the City of Sisters could be included in an expansion of the City’s urban growth boundary, but the hearings officer’s recommendation and potential

See MMV on page 16

County commissioners to appoint interim Sheriff

Sheriff Kent van der Kamp will resign at the end of July, following revelations that he gave false testimony multiple times under oath regarding his education and credentials.

Van der Kamp is facing a citizen-initiated recall effort.

The Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has

launched a process to appoint an interim Sheriff.

The BOCC is required by state law to appoint an interim Sheriff, who will serve until a new Sheriff is elected. The appointee must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be at least 21 years old.

Barclay bypass traffic pattern adjusted

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Many motorists were stymied by the new traffic flow pattern at North Locust Street where it continues as Camp Polk Road at Barclay Drive. Northbound drivers on Locust found difficulty in navigating the zig-zag onto Camp Polk, with some missing the flow altogether and driving on the bike lane.

The white pylons and road striping appeared to some drivers as a barrier for continuing northbound making them think that their only option was to turn left onto Barclay and then wending their way through Sun Ranch Business Park to get back to Camp Polk.

Within two days of being alerted to the issue, the City’s Public Works Department reconfigured the intersection.

Public Works Director Paul Bertagna, told The Nugget, “Engineering recommended adjusting the dura-curbing to help soften

the north bound radius onto Camp Polk and our contractor made the change this afternoon (Monday, June 23). The Fire Department also ran one of their large engines through it and were happy with the adjustment. We also added a delineator to

each side of the bike lane to try to help people understand to not drive in the bike lane.” The turns now appear much smoother and in observing the flow of traffic it seems more fluid. Drivers are expressing relief for the fast response.

Some modifications to the new Barclay/Locust traffic control scheme made it easier to navigate, including for larger vehicles.

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

See FESTIVAL on page 14 Shovels & Rope closed out Big Ponderoo 2025 on Sunday with a scorching set.

PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT

OPINION

Letters to the Editor…

Protect and serve

To the Editor:

a “young’un” to me.

Heat dome

By Roger Worthington Guest Columnist

A few weeks ago I went for a ride-along in a police car with Lt. Chad Davis, the Sisters substation commanding officer for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office As a retired police officer this was a real treat. I haven’t been in a police car (for any reason) since I retired in 1999. Lt. Davis seemed like

Some things have changed and some not. In all, I felt like I was in the company of a first-class professional, leading a group of the same. When I retired, we had early versions of computers installed in the black-and-whites. The new version is Star Wars vs. a calculator. Communications, police-related information,

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. See LETTERS on page 23

Sisters Weather Forecast

The Nugget Newspaper, LLC

www.nuggetnews.com | 541-549-9941

442 E. Main Ave., P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759

Postmaster: Send address changes to The Nugget Newspaper, PO Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759. 3rd Class Postage Paid at Sisters, OR.

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).

Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius, editor@nuggetnews.com

Community Marketing Partner: Kimberly Young, ads@nuggetnews.com

Classifieds, Circulation, Proofreading: Kema Clark, nugget@nuggetnews.com

Graphic Design, Billing: Leith Easterling, accounting@nuggetnews.com

Creative Director: Jess Draper, jess@nuggetnews.com

Co-owner: J. Louis Mullen

Four years ago, a killer heat dome struck the Pacific Northwest claiming the lives of over 800 people, including 100 Oregonians. For a three-day period, temperatures spiked to 116º F, while “urban heat islands” in Portland sizzled under 124º F heat. Climate experts agree that, but for fossil-fuel induced climate change, accelerated by a sophisticated and effective decades-long disinformation campaign by Big Oil, the heat dome would never have happened.

By now most of us know the numbers — in 2024 the planet breached the 1.5 degree C tipping point; atmospheric carbon and methane pollution reached record levels; the rate of carbon emissions peaked as oil and gas production skyrocketed; and summer temperatures in Portland have cranked up 4º F since 1940. Meanwhile, insurance companies are warning that the economic cost of global warming is already in the trillions of dollars and will get much, much worse. And every year the number of catastrophic climate changerelated heat, smoke, wildfire, and flooding deaths hits a new high.

With all these dire and irrefutable warnings, why do we continue to delay holding Big Oil accountable for their deception that has generated so much life-threatening greenhouse gas pollution? Why do we kick the can down the road?

This morning when you looked up at the azure, blue Oregon sky, you would have no way of knowing that in the last 60 years the amount of atmospheric CO2 has jumped from 315 to 426 PPM. For me, this means the amount of CO2 I’m breathing into my lungs now is 30 percent higher than the day I was born.

in refrigerants and aerosol cans. The Reagan administration swiftly and prudently responded with a solution. And the U.S. and the rest of the world transitioned away from CFCs, a move which saved millions of Earthlings from skin cancer.

How do we know now that CO2 pollution is superheating the planet? Science. How do we know that CO2 pollution is exacerbating the intensity, frequency, and duration of heat waves, wildfires, droughts, and floods? Science. How do we know that emissions from specific fossil fuel producers share responsibility for causing discrete extreme weather events, like 2021 PNW Heat Dome? Again, science.

And who is opposed to science? Our President and his entire administration. Like a madman, he’s been obliterating budgets for scientific research. Everything from curing cancer to purifying water. He even wants to roll back the ban on asbestos, a carcinogen responsible for the death of millions of Americans. What’s next? Abolishing sewage treatment plants? Mandating the use of medieval chamber pots (of course, gold plated with ornate Trump branding)?

In addition to rejecting science, our President deplores jury trials. He recently signed an executive order that aims to deny cities, counties, and states access to the civil court system to seek recovery for climate-related damages under centuries-old common law tort theories. He has ordered his Attorney General to devise ways to interfere with ongoing civil actions, like the case filed by Multnomah County two years ago, which asks carbon polluters to pick up the tab for their misconduct, and not stick taxpayers with the bill.

We don’t think about this because we can’t see CO2 gas. It’s colorless. What if it wasn’t? What if it was purple? The entire sky would then be a deep, foreboding purple, like an eggplant. Or, more sinisterly, like the color of The Joker’s Victorian tailcoat. Global warming would then be a whole lot harder to ignore.

In the 1980s, the public was shown images of huge holes in the ozone layer above the polar ice caps. Scientists proved that the holes were caused by Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were used

Multnomah County’s Commissioners, unlike the Trump Administration, respect both science and the U.S. Constitution, which clearly allows states to use its police powers to protect the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens.

For their courage and fidelity to the rule of law, as well as their commitment to protecting the public health and property, we owe them a debt of gratitude. Thanks for marshalling the scientific evidence to prove Big Oil is culpable. And let’s let a jury in Portland, Oregon, decide. Roger Worthington owns Worthy Brewing in Bend, and Indie Hops in Portland.

Art and music filled Sisters Friday

By

It wasn’t just Village Green that was oozing with music and good vibes last weekend.

Nine art galleries combined the Sisters Art Association’s regular 4th Friday Art Walk with a fusion of art and music to open the Big Ponderoo weekend.

Art lovers were treated to the usual banquet of wine, appetizers, and a cornucopia of paintings, sculpture, lithographs, ceramics and metal and wearable art. In partnership with Big Ponderoo, gallery regulars and hundreds of first timers got the bonus of live music.

“Not sure which I like more — the art or the music,” said Riley Post from

Black Butte Ranch. His wife Cindi agreed. “We’d be drawn to an artwork and then find ourselves drifting away to the really nice sounds.”

“I wish the galleries had stayed open longer,” sighed Tess Erlich from Sunriver. “The combination of music and art was mesmerizing. We just lingered and lost track of time.”

With so much art and music spread over a dozen plus blocks, attendees found themselves rushing between galleries so as not to miss anything. Or just as often settling into one or two galleries soaking it all in.

The afternoon sun was a natural spotlight for the nearly 1,000 pieces of art on exhibit by Association members, some of which was displayed outdoors.

It was an eclectic range of music, something for everybody, but in keeping with the mood, nothing frenetic. “The art forms complemented each other, neither distracted from the other,” said Miles Orton from Bend.

Thompson Guitars and Nechville Banjos West joined the galleries with music by the Thompson Pickin’ Band and music by Tom and Linda Nechville.

Speaking of Nechville, Joe Larson of TopHouse, one of Big Ponderoo’s best loved bands, purchased one of their banjos while in town.

“Don’t think for a moment that a Thompson Guitar or Nechville Banjo isn’t a piece of art,” said Tina Hawke from Denver. “They don’t let me near the instruments” she joked, “as I tend to drool.”

City snapshot: councilors, commissioners confer

Sisters City Councilors and the Deschutes County Commissioners met in joint session on June 25.

Community Development Director Scott Woodford provided a status update on the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion project. He noted that since last December there had been “extensive public outreach,” various public meetings of the UGB Steering Committee (UGB-SC), Planning Commission, and City Councilors.

Woodford said with City Councilor’s approval

in early spring this year, the UGB-SC are currently working on finalizing the land parameters of Concept A which includes the priority-one lands northeast of Sisters. Concept B would include some of those lands and also consider the McKenzie Meadow Village LLC (MMV) property. Work on concept B is pending the application before the county to have a favorable decision in making it a priority two land which the UGB-SC could then legally consider. See, related article, page 1, on the Hearing Officer’s recommendation to the County

Sisters to celebrate Independence Day

The members of the Second Continental Congress declared independence from Great Britain in Philadelphia on July 2, 1776.

Delegate and future U.S. President John Adams wrote that July 2 “will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival… It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade with shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires 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. Siste rs Library Communit y Room. 5 41-588 -0547.

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 S PR D in Sisters 541- 632- 3663

Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons. 917-219-8298

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 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSI D Of fice 541- 903- 4050

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, 9 a.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.

Illuminations from one End of this continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” Adams turned out to be off by a couple of days. America’s celebration of independence has traditionally landed on the 4th of July — the date when the Continental Congress adopted the document that was the Declaration of Independence — a document Adams helped to craft. For 249 years, the date

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

Black Bu tt e Ranch Polic e Dept. Board of Dire ctor s M eets monthly 541- 59 5-2191 for time & date

Black Bu tt e Ranch R FPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BB R Fire Station. 5 41-595 -2 28 8 Cloverdale R FPD Board of Dire ctor s 3rd Wed., 5:3 0 p.m., 6743 3 Cloverdale Rd. 5 41-5 48 -4 815. c loverdalef ire.com.

Sister s- Camp She rman R FPD Board of Dire ctor s 3rd Tuesday, 5 p.m., Siste rs Fire Hall, 5 41-5 49 -0771. Sister s- Camp She rman R FPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Siste rs Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 5 41-5 49 -0771.

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

Art and music filled Sisters as the traditional 4th Friday Art Stroll worked in tandem with Big Ponderoo.

Bill Bartlett Correspondent

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

Public engages on actions for unhoused

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

A large and lively group of Sisters citizens gathered at the Sisters Park and Recreation District Community Center on June 24 for a second public meeting to address unhoused issues.

There were 115 people in attendance, including“partners” comprised of representatives from 13 entities: Sisters Community Leadership Initiative (SCLI), Community Outreach, Resources & Emergency (CORE), Deschutes County Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST), Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), Deschutes Public Library, Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD), Sisters School District (SSD6), Sisters Community Church, Sisters Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service, Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District, Citizens for Community (C4C), Economic Development Central Oregon (EDCO), and the City of Sisters.

The partners meet monthly to make progress on issues and concerns relative to the unhoused.

The partners reviewed

four priorities or focus areas including actions. The actions were built from public suggestions in a previous public meeting. The partners had two questions for those in attendance: What are we missing? What concerns or questions do you have?

The four priorities are: support and services for the unhoused, safety (manage concerns and mitigate risks), housing (transitional to affordable), and coordination of information and community education. More information can be found at www.ci.sisters.or.us/admin istration/page/communityconversation-about-house lessness.

In the community meeting one of the partners was present at each of 10 tables. They reviewed the first priority and its associated actions. Then folks responded to the two questions while a notetaker captured their ideas or concerns. The representatives of the partners then moved to another table to similarly address the next priority. The room was lively with conversations. The meeting was closed with a brief wrap-up thanking all and noting that their input is valued and will be assessed and applied to make progress in all areas of

concern.

The following are a few participant ideas and concerns (paraphrased):

• How do authorities respond to an emergency call from an unhoused person?

A partner replied,” because of collaboration of the entities comprising the partners, our ability to quickly coordinate responses to locate and help an unhoused person has become very efficient.”

• Those employed in

Sisters and living in recreational vehicles should have other options than parking in the forest. A proposed solution: The City should purchase land or lease acreage for 25 or 99 years, that could be developed to support “safe parking.”

• The Sisters Community Facebook page has users posting mis- or disinformation about the unhoused and there should be someone in the City that fact-checks and

replies with the facts.

• Why can’t we get some developers to create some ‘tiny home’ solutions? The reply was that “our land use codes would need to be updated first — that is a slow process but needs to begin. It is one of the action items under consideration.”

• How do we help the unhoused feel part of our community or how do we create the community that includes them?

Citizens and agency partners hashed out ideas for addressing issues around homelessness in Sisters.

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

Homeless, houseless, hopeless…

By Melody Carlson Columnist

It might be too soon for me to write an opinion piece about this very complicated and conflicted issue, but here goes. Just days ago, I had to “encourage” a homeless woman (and her little dog too) to exit the ADU I’d offered for very low rent in freezing February, after learning this woman was living in her car in the woods. I gave her a twoweek contract and since she had a job in town, asked for a very token payment of rent that she paid after a week or so. We were down to very low temps at the time and the way our shelter works is that the forecast temperature must be 20 or below for overnighters. Well, if you’ve lived here long you know that a prediction can be for 30 degrees and you wake up to 12. This is a restriction put on shelters by the county and, if you ask me, deserves some attention.

But back to my story. Although some well-meaning friends questioned my decision to take in this woman, it had seemed right at the time. It was cold outside, I had a warm furnished vacant unit, and the woman had employment. But perhaps since I was only one month into widowhood, it’s possible I was not thinking clearly. However, the good folks at the houseless shelter promised to help and to have my back. And they kept their promises.

But it wasn’t easy. And it wasn’t simple. And soon the “short stay” of two weeks grew into months, and time revealed to me there were reasons for this woman’s

houseless troubles. Sad and complex reasons — reasons I couldn’t help her with — and added stress to my life.

And I began to realize and respect there are reasons for other souls living in our woods. These reasons, I believe, are as unique as each person struggling to survive. Whether it’s plain old hard knocks, family troubles, mental illness, addiction… there are reasons. And not always resolvable reasons either.

During the time this woman remained in my ADU, we actually witnessed real progress. The folks running the shelter, Lou and Lori, assisted by a few others, were able to locate all kinds of help. Really impressive help. Again it was neither simple nor easy. But healthy changes were made. To be honest it sometimes felt like one step forward and two steps back, but in retrospect, I know it was a worthwhile investment in a human life.

But it became increasingly stressful and winter was past… it was clearly time to go. But when I nudged and hinted, I was met with

resistance and more stress, until I had to spell it out and wondered if I’d ever get her moved on.

And okay I get it. Affordable housing, if it even exists, is darn hard to find these days. But still, every time an exit plan was suggested, the woman refused.

In fact, if she hadn’t accidentally flooded my ADU, she would probably still be here. Although stressful at the time, her late night catastrophe made it easier to send her on her way since the waterlogged ADU suddenly became uninhabitable. And thankfully, Lou and Lori came to the rescue and performed a remarkable exodus. These heroes even showed up the next day (after church) and miraculously emptied and cleaned my ADU.

There are so many caring people in our community, ones who volunteer at the shelter, take people to appointments, donate food and clothing, go into the woods to cleanup messes or deliver goods or a kind word. Yes, I know some people feel this is dangerous, or

enablement, or creating the potential for a wildfire. I don’t even disagree on some levels. We do have a houseless/homeless problem… a growing problem. But complaining about it does not make it go away, and it does not make it better.

Clearly, I’ve learned, it takes a lot of effort to help a homeless person. If it’s even possible. Does that make the mission hopeless? After all, it’s just one person—and there are many with growing numbers. I remember the story of the guy who saw all those living starfish on the beach after a storm and began, one by one, tossing them back into the ocean… and when someone laughingly asked: “What difference will it make?” the guy

held up one starfish and said: “It makes a difference to him,” as he tossed it into the waves.

Will my meager efforts, or even this opinion piece, resolve the enormous issue of homeless/houselessnes? Of course not! But it did remind me it takes a village to help someone in those dire straits. Will I invite another houseless person to live with me? Probably not in the near future. My spirits are in need of some peace and quiet now. But I’m not done. I will continue to do what I can to help with this issue. We are all different with varying gifts, abilities, time, and resource to help, but if we all pitched in… it might get better. One starfish at a time.

Scottie Love and Courage WisdomScottie &Faith

Jean Russell Nave

“… in all these things we are more than conquerors”

— Romans 8:37

A mere 48 hours changed everything. The world was upside down and all life had transformed.

Earlier, my husband lay comfortably in his hospital bed which had been installed in our bedroom. Hospice nurses had given him pain medication that finally gave him peace after more than a year of constant pain.

“I love you,” Claude said, while squeezing my hand.

“I love you too, precious,” I responded with another squeeze.

Claude closed his eyes, and those words were our last exchange.

Soon after he slipped into a coma. Rasping breathing followed and the death process began.

My son, the Scotties, and I were not prepared for the awful two days that followed. No one had told us how miserably tenacious is the body’s work to hang on to life after the soul has, in effect, passed on.

The sounds of death terrified the Scotties. The man they loved so much seemed to be in some kind of trouble, and all they could do was run back and forth trying to tell me that he needed help.

With added love and

attention, they finally seemed to accept that everything was now different. But that was only the beginning.

Once those hours were over, with the help of my son, I gathered my thoughts and started planning the future.

One of the nurses who helped Claude had fallen in love with Ernie, the smaller of the two Scotties. I soon realized, with advice from my vet, that the two Scottie boys would be better off separate.

Bernie, the dominant one of the pair, had grown to the point of completely controlling his little brother. The vet felt that Ernie needed to get out from under Bernie in order to bloom and become the awesome little Scottie that he could be.

Once Nurse Deb adopted him, Ernie transformed, just as the vet said he would. And Bernie became calmer and much easier to train.

The loving courage of these two Scotties amazed me. In less than two years, the Scotties had gone through a tough first home life, been adopted to our home — complete with the turmoil of Claude’s sickness and death — to then being separated, having one going to a new home. But they quickly adjusted and now they both are thriving. As Paul put it, they are more than conquerors.

And then, what about my progress? As a reader of this column, you know that I believe deeply in a greater power than myself. I daily felt the hand of that power helping me through each challenge, including never having enough sleep. For nearly two years, I got four hours of sleep, or less. Yet I always had the necessary strength to do all the things that had to be done to take care of Claude and keep him at home, as I had promised.

There was only one source of that energy, the perfect good strength of God. Unforeseen problems

arose, but other than pain management, God always showed me a way to deal with them. When I was nearly pulling out my hair for the need of help, help always came from some place.

The Old Testament tells us that, “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil.” Death was our shadow yet support always seemed to arrive in one form or another.

Pain management was a different issue. Twelve years ago when I was given a prognosis of stage four cancer, my primary care doctor told me that, “today we have so many new pain management remedies that you do not need to worry about ever being in bad pain.”

Well that may have been true then, but it is not true today. Because most of those “new remedies” have synthetic opioids as their base, the U.S. government, sometime in the past five years made the new pain drugs very difficult or impossible for the average doctor to prescribe in quantities high enough to deal with severe pain. It was not until Claude was in the care of hospice that he was given enough medication to be comfortable.

Yes, there is a drug crisis, but that now means that

easy, and it didn’t work if I was distracted by fear or concerns. In other words, it isn’t for everyone.

We live in a challenging and unpredictable world. Our ability to adapt and cope with the challenges requires some kind of faith, either in ourselves or in a higher power. When we trust that higher power, we can have even greater faith in ourselves, because we know that power works through us.

The Scotties showed me that they could be adaptable,

and they placed their faith in me and other people. They now thrive. I am thriving again. I know that God is with me, and I know that there are still many ways I can contribute to those around me. My husband is alive as spirit, and he lives in my heart. Life is good when we love and always look for the good in others, and in the world around us.

My grace is all you need, for my power is the greatest when you are weak.

— 2 Corinthians 12:9

Please

Obituaries

Edith Loretta Lavers

March 1, 1929 - June 18, 2025

Edith Loretta Lavers, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, at the age of 96 in Sisters.

She was born on March 1, 1929, in Lowell, Massachusetts. On July 26, 1947, she married the love of her life, Rupert James Lavers. The couple made their home in Westford, Massachusetts, before relocating to Westminster, California, in 1955, where they raised their four children.

A devoted caregiver by nature, she worked as a back office nurse in a dermatology practice for 10 years, followed by another 10 years with a general practitioner — a role she truly loved.

In 2000, she and Rupert moved to Madras to be closer to family. After 61 years of marriage, Rupert passed away in 2008. She remained in Madras until 2020, when she moved to Sisters to live with her daughter and son-in-law.

She is survived by her four children: Rupert James Lavers, Jr. of Prescott, Arizona; Debbie Lehman of Klamath Falls, OR; Karen Koolhaas of Madras, Oregon; and Lorri Melton of Sisters. She also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 28 greatgrandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She is lovingly remembered by her lifelong best friend of over 90 years, Helen Pevey of Hudson, New Hampshire, with whom she maintained a close bond since kindergarten. Her life was marked by love, dedication, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

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

4TH:

Fireworks are banned across Sisters Country

Continued from page 3

has marked a national celebration. In Sisters, the main event will be the Sisters 4th Fest. The event runs from 7:30 a.m. to noon on Friday, July 4, at Sisters Village Green Park. The fest includes a pancake breakfast,

a classic car show, a fun run, a “Kids On Wheels” parade, a slate to veterans, live music and line dancing, and more. The event, created by Sisters Rotary and Citizens4Community, is designed to end at lunchtime so people can filter through town and support local merchants before dispersing to their backyard barbecues and whatever other fun they have planned for the holiday. For more information visit

https://sisters4thfest.com.

Pomp and Parade and shews, Games and Sports are a welcome diversion — but Central Oregonians have to skip the Bonfires and Illuminations, since we’re in wildfire season. All fireworks are prohibited in the City of Sisters and all through the National Forest. Traffic is expected to be heavy through Sisters throughout the three-day weekend.

Voting in 2026 might get complicated

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

There are currently three Deschutes County Commissioner seats and each commissioner has a four-year term. Every two years, one seat or the other two seats, become open for election.

In the last November election, a citizens’ initiative petition to expand the number of commissioner seats by two was passed by a supermajority of the voting public. As a result, in 2026, there will be several Deschutes County Commissioner candidates running for specific seats among the open four.

Both County Commissioners Patti Adair and Tony DeBone will finish their four-year terms as of January 2027. They may or may not run for office again and other candidates will likely run to win those seats. The two added county commissioner seats will initially be two-year terms, only because these seats will thereafter have elections during presidential election cycles.

Said another way, after 2027, two county commissioner seats will be open in mid-term election years and three seats will be open in presidential election years. As of 2028, voters will be alternatively voting to fill either two or three county commissioner seats every two years.

All candidates running for a county commissioner seat will need to register no later than March 10, 2026, for the May 19, 2026, mid-term election. If any candidate wins more than 50 percent of the vote for a seat, they will begin their term of four or two years in January 2027. However, if there is a tie at 50 percent, or no candidate gets more than 50 percent

of votes for a particular seat, then the tying candidates or top two at under 50 percent of the votes, will have a run-off for those seats in the November 3, 2026, election.

In the June 25 workshop of the City of Sisters Council and the Deschutes County Commissioners, both Commissioners Tony DeBone and Patti Adair reported having recently voted to create a committee to map out five districts within Deschutes County. This district defining committee (DDC, herein) will be comprised of seven Deschutes County residents. Both DeBone and Adair will each select two people to serve on the DDC and County Commissioner Phil Chang will select three. They are working to have the DDC in place before fall. The hope is that the DDC will have determined the map of the five Deschutes County districts to be placed in a legislative initiative on the ballot for the May 2026 or November 2026 election.

Commissioner Phil Chang expressed concerns in the timing of creating districts. Should voters approve the five-districts initiative in either May or November of 2026 it will impact those candidates who win their elections to be County Commissioners as of January 2027 — unless the initiative states the districts will not take effect until the May 2028 election. Even then, the candidates who win the added commissioner seats in 2026 and have two-year terms, may find they cannot run for re-election because they do not live in the district for that seat.

Such concerns will require resolution before submitting five county districts to a vote on the ballot in 2026 or in 2027.

Dear Property Guy

By Mike Zoormajian

Conventional wisdom holds that home ownership is the ticket to wealth. And that it’s dumb to “pay someone else’s mortgage” by renting. That was fine when interest rates were 3% and housing was appreciating at 10% annually. Let’s see what is true with today’s higher interest rates and a flatter housing market.

Let’s shop in Redmond, where you can have a cute 3bed/2bath for $450k. This house would rent for $2,400 a month. Keep that number in your head.

If we were to buy that same house and put 10% ($45k) down, which is the average for first time home buyers, this gives us a payment of about $2,650 at current rates. Close-ish to our rental price. But wait! Let’s add property taxes ($250), insurance ($100), and mortgage insurance ($150) to that and all of a sudden our $2,650 is now $3,150. Hmmm….

But wait! Our interest is tax deductible, which lowers our payment by about $650 for people in the 25% tax rate bracket, bringing our payment back to $2,500. This is the mortgage interest deduction, and it’s the government’s gift to homebuyers.

To keep things equal for

renters, let’s put that $45k that we didn’t put down on the house in a CD. This earns us more like $150 a month, or perhaps double that if we’re having a good run on the stock market. So it’s: renting - $2,250 per month, buying - $2,500 per month. Close, but not so simple as we dig a little deeper.

This is looking at a moment in time. As we look ahead; one year, two years, twenty years, the buyer will have the same mortgage payment. Higher insurance and tax bills, but same mortgage payment. The renter will likely have a higher rent bill as time goes on.

Increasing home value over time is the reason home ownership is considered magic. The average annual price increase for a home over the past 30-years has been five percent. So that $450,000 house is all of a sudden a $470,000 house, which is all of a sudden a $500,000 house. A good deal, but not a guaranteed one. Housing prices vary. They can be flat or even go down. This is where every individual must check their own risk tolerance and assumptions

Building & Renovating w ith Innovative Design and

Our team believes quality, creativity, and sustainability matter We want your home to be a work of art worthy of containing your life

for the future; and make their own decisions.

A less glamorous, but very real, element of home ownership is maintenance, especially the unscheduled kind. A homeowner must always be ready for their house to ask for a $15,000 roof, a $10,000 plumbing or electrical repair, or a new $1,000 appliance. These are all things that are just not part of a renter’s experience.

So what’s the answer? No answer. Rent or buy is a personal decision based on individual needs and priorities. A few years ago, when home and rent prices were skyrocketing, and interest rates were low; this was an easier answer. Now with more stable home prices, flattening rents, and higher interest rates, this becomes more complex.

We’re just scratching the surface of a big question. But for now, I give all renters permission to not feel like you are wasting money… for now.

Mike Zoormajian is principal at WetDog Properties in Sisters. Providing local property management services. Questions and comments to mikez@ wetdogpnw.com.

541-420-8448 dyerconstructionrenovation.com

Stars over Sisters

By Finn Benton Columnist

Of the 12 zodiacal constellations, only one of them represents an inanimate object while the other eleven depict living entities. It is also the star pattern we are highlighting for the month of July.

Called MUL Zibanu (meaning “scales” or “balance”) by ancient Babylonian astronomers, the constellation of Libra was sacred to their sun god Shamash, who also served as a divine judge. The Ancient Egyptians, by contrast, thought that the three brightest stars in Libra (Alpha Librae, Beta Librae, and Sigma Librae) formed a boat.

In Arabic, the constellation’s two main stars are named Zubenelgenubi and Zubeneschamali, meaning the “southern claw” and the “northern claw” respectively, of the neighboring constellation of Scorpius the Scorpion. The Ancient Greeks also described the constellation as the Claw of the Scorpion, while the Romans favored Libra as the constellation of scales held by Virgo because they valued fair and equal trade. They also associated Libra with the goddess of justice, Justitia, who is represented by the constellation Virgo.

To find Libra, look to the southern sky for a quadrangle-shaped figure located approximately halfway between Spica in Virgo and Antares in Scorpius.

Shining with a magnitude of 2.61, Zubeneschamali is Libra’s brightest star. It is a blue-white star that is 3.5 times more massive and 10 times larger than our sun and lies at a distance of 185 light-years.

Libra has very few bright deep sky objects that can be easily observed in binoculars and small telescopes. Still, a couple of them are worthy of mention. The brightest of these, glowing at a magnitude of 8.5, is NGC 5897, a globular cluster that is within range of many amateur telescopes. It has a diameter of 170 lightyears and is located 41,000 light-years away.

NGC 5728 is an attractive barred spiral galaxy that has a supermassive black hole at its center. It is only slightly smaller than our own Milky Way galaxy and is located about 146 million light-years from our solar system.

The sun spends approximately 23 days within the constellation of Libra, from roughly October 31 to November 22.

The earth will reach aphelion (greatest distance from the sun) at 1 p.m. PDT on July 3 when the two bodies will be separated by 94.5 million miles. At first this may sound counter intuitive since many locations in the Northern Hemisphere

experience near maximum temperatures throughout the year in July. The mystery is explained by understanding that the change of seasons doesn’t occur by how near or far earth gets to the sun but instead is caused by the hemispheres being tilted towards or away from the sun.

Both Mars and Mercury are evening objects this month. The Red Planet will travel eastward through Leo, standing 22 degrees above the western horizon after sunset on July 1, but only 12 degrees by the end of the month. Meanwhile, Mercury reaches its greatest eastern elongation on July 4 and will linger just above the western horizon through mid-month before sinking out of sight by month’s end.

month until July 10 when the full Buck Moon arrives. Thereafter, our only natural satellite begins to wane before going dark on new moon July 24.

This month’s Dark Sky tip: Unshielded outdoor string lights can significantly contribute to light pollution. Please turn them off when they’re not needed.

Rising by 3 a.m. local time in the constellation of Taurus, Venus is a bright beacon in the morning sky. Saturn comes up by midnight in the constellation of Pisces. Jupiter will reappear as a morning object toward the end of July.

A brightening moon will be in play early in the

NGC 5728 is a beautiful barred spiral galaxy located 146 million light-years away in the constellation of Libra. PHOTO

Sisters Library

Family Story Time

Stories , songs , and rhymes designed to support early literacy skill development, social emotional awareness , and f amily engagement. You and your child will hear great stories while also becoming more f amiliar with letter sounds , rhyming , vocabulary, and print. Plus, there will be directions to follow, which will help prepare for kindergarten. is 30 -minute program is on Wednesdays , at 10:30 a .m. in the Community Room.

Online for Kids

Find dozens of story times and other fun programs for kids available 24/7 on the librar y YouTube channel: dpl.pub/stor ytime.

Nonfic tion Library

Book Club at Suttle Tea

Discuss “ e Wager ” by David Grann. Tuesday, July 7, at 1 p.m., 450 E . Cascade Ave., Sisters

Sisters Garden Club

Annual Garden Par t y e public is invited to the annual Garden Part y on ursday, July 10 , f rom 10 a .m. to 3 p.m. e location is at 69331 Deer Ridge L ane, Sisters is four-acre propert y has gorgeous gardens & mountain views . Local artisan vendors will be selling their special creations. Free admission. Donations welcome.

Sisters Downtown Walking Tours are back!

ree Sisters Historical Societ y is happy to announce the return of these f ree, family-friendly, and docent-led tours. Set for 22, tickets are required and available exclusively on the Eventbrite website. Go to Eventbrite.com, for location choose “Sisters”, for event choose “ ree Sisters Historical Society ” Scroll down, and click on July 6 to view options for any of the other dates as well. Donations are always welcome. Learn about the histor y of the buildings , and the businesses and people that inhabited them.

Free Lunches for Seniors

For those 60+, the Council on Aging of Central Oregon o ers a f un, no-cost social lunch every Tuesday, 11 a .m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy. No reservations needed. No-cost Grab-N-Go lunche s take place weekly on Wed . and urs ., from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367

Volunteer at Sisters Habitat for Humanity

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

A NNOUNCEMENT S

Mobile Employment Resource Van (MERV) coming to Sisters COIC - WorkSource Oregon is providing job and career ser vices in Sisters to any job-seeking individual (help with a résumé, interview skills, connecting with employers). e MERV will be stationed at Sisters Parks & Recreation District Communit y Center parking lot, 611 E . Cascade Ave., July 2. Info: contact Matt Olsen, mobile employment counselor, molsen@coic.org.

Camp Polk Pioneer Cemeter y Tour

One-hour tour begins with a brief histor y and focuses on key ancestors who helped bridge pioneer travel bet ween the Willamet te Valley and Prineville, settling in the Sisters area . Join a tour online at www.Eventbrite. com , Camp Polk Cemeter y Tour, leave phone number in case of cancellation, ursdays , July 17, August 21, 10:30 a .m. Free.

Pancake Breakfast Benefit for Historic Camp Sherman Community Hall

Sunday, July 6, 8 to 11 a .m. at Camp Sherman Community Hall. Adult s $12; ages 6 -12, $8; 5 & under, f ree. For more information call 541-595-6 458.

Living Well With Dementia Sisters Suppor t Groups

Living Well now o ers t wo support groups . A support group for the care partners and f amily of those diagnosed with some form of dementia meet s on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month f rom 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Sisters Library Communit y Room. A support group for the person diagnosed with some form of dementia in the early stages meets the same days and times , also at Sisters Librar y. For more information call 541-588-0547.

Weekly Food Pantry

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

Free Weekly Meal Service

Family Kitchen hosts weekly togo hot meals on Tuesdays , 4:30 to 6 p.m., at Sisters Community Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy Visit www.FamilyKitchen .org

10 0+ Women Who Care-Sisters

10 0+ Women Who CareSisters is delighte d to announce that it has added a “+” to its name! Having topped 100 memberships , the group is actively recruiting women to join and support that beautif ul “+ ” 100WWC pools donations to f und local nonprofits nominated by its members

More than $51 00 0 has been donated since the group’s founding in March 2024. ere is no membership fee, but one must be a member to attend the quarterly meetings. For more information or a membership application, email 100wwc. Sisters@gmail. com or call/text 541-912-0750.

Friends of the Metolius Interpretive Walks: In-Depth Fish Walk

On Saturday, July 5, 9 to 11 a.m. retired fish biologist Mike Riehle will share his many years of experience studying and managing the native fish that depend on this river for spawning and sur vival. While walking f rom the Camp Sherman bridge to the Allingham bridge and back, Mike will discuss the diverse aquatic life, the unique fish habit at, and the variet y of native fish. Leader: Mike Riehle. For information call 541-318-8389. Children are more than welcome, but dogs are not appropriate. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water Camp Sherman Bridge to Allingham Bridge and back

On Saturday, July 12, 9 to 11 a.m., learn about the unique riparian habitat of the Metolius ecosystem, explore early Camp Sherman history, and obser ve changes to the river to enhance fish habit at. Leader: Scott Blau. For information call 503-7308034 or 541-595-6 439. Children are more than welcome, but dogs are not appropriate. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water

Sisters French Club

For people interested in French culture and language, Sisters French Club meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m . at e Barn, 171 E . Main Ave. All levels are welcome. For more information, visit Facebook @SistersFrenchClub.

Community Grants Prog ram Accepting Applications e Cit y of Sisters is seeking to award grants to non-profit communit y groups and other entities that meet the grant criteria for the 2025/26 fiscal year. e cit y will award up to $30, 00 0 in grants for Sisters community project s. Interested organiz ations should submit a Communit y Grant application and letter of interest by July 31, 2025 , attention Rebecca Green, Cit y Recorder. Applications are available on our website: https://www ci.sisters .or.us/administration/ page/community-grants. For information contact Rebecca Green at 541-323-520 6 or recorder@ci.sisters.or.us.

Central Oregon Federated Republican Meeting COFRW (Central Oregon Federated Republican Women) meet s the first ursday of ever y month f rom 10:45 a .m. (registration) to 1 p.m. at A spen Lakes Golf Club in Sisters . Come learn f rom guest speakers , and hear and question local and state candidates . Meetings include lunch for $27. R SVP required to attend . Learn more about upcoming meetings and speakers , and RSVP at COFRWBend@gmail.com

.Join Maggie and f riends for a bir thday par t y to celebrate her 97th bir thday! July 6 , f rom 4 to 6 p.m. on the deck at Takoda’s Restaurant.

Announce Your Celebr ations!

Birth, engagement, wedding , and milestone anniversary notices f rom the Sisters communit y may run at no charge on this Announcements page. All submissions are subject to editing for space. Email nug get@nug getnews .com or drop o at 4 42 E . Main Ave Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays

MEECHEE

Meechee is looking for ward to finding a new family to call her own. Meechee is not a fan of dog friends and prefers a cat-oriented home. Here at the shelter, Meechee has been our resident biscuit maker. She loves to look prett y while she gets some pets and even takes a nibble of food while you hang out with her. If you are interested in Meechee, stop by the shelter!

SISTER S- ARE A C HURCH ES

Baha’i Faith

For information, devotions, study groups , etc., cont ac t Shauna Rocha 541-6 47-9826 • www.bahai org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteaching s.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, 541-977-5559; 10 a .m. Sunday Sac rament Meeting

e Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration 121 N Brook s Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087

www.transfiguration-sisters.org

8:30 a .m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship

10 :15 a .m. Episcopal Sunday Worship

e Resting Place meeting at Sisters Communit y Church, 130 0 W. McKenzie Hwy www.restingplace.us • hello@restingplace.us

5 p.m. Sunday Worship

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 541-815-98 48

11 a .m. S aturday Worship

POLICY:

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 ring ton Loop Rd . • 541-389-8960 www.sistersna z.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

Healing Reins announces expansion

Healing Reins Equine Assisted Services is breaking ground on an expansion to its clinical services program, in response to the rapidly growing demand for pediatric physical and occupational therapy in Central Oregon. Construction begins July 5.

This project includes the addition of two new clinic rooms, and a therapy gym— improvements that will allow Healing Reins to serve more individuals year-round in an inclusive and innovative environment.

“For years, we’ve provided therapeutic services for people of all ages, blending traditional clinical care with nature and equineassisted activities,” said Darrion Cotroneo, Director of Development. “Now we’re expanding our capacity to reach more families who are waiting for support.”

Healing Reins’ evidencebased approach enhances outcomes by incorporating outdoor and equine elements that help engage clients more fully, especially children and those with complex needs.

The expansion also allows the organization to increase access to mental health and Adaptive Horsemanship programs, including more afterschool options for working families.

“With construction costs favorable and community need at an all-time high, we felt compelled to act now,” says Executive Director Polly Cohen. “This is a bold step toward a healthier future for Central Oregon—and we’re inviting the community to grow with us.”

Healing Reins welcomes donations of all sizes to support construction, equipment, and therapeutic tools. To learn more or contribute, visit www.healingreins.org.

SISTERS-AREA Events & Enter tainment

WEDNESDAY • JULY 2

The Barn Live Music: Skillethead 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.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 • JULY 3

The Barn Live Music: In the Rounds 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 12th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Sign up at 5:30 For information call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • JULY 4

Village Green Park Sisters 4th Fest Second annual community festival presented by Rotary Club of Sisters and Citizens4Community. Pancake breakfast, car show, fun run, presentation of colors, mini-parade and music 7:30 a.m. to noon. Free For schedule, car show and run registration, and more information see www.sisters4thfest.com.

Sisters Coffee Co Live Music on the patio 3 to 5 p.m. Info: instagram.com/sisterscoffee/.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Summit Jazz Band 6 to 9 p.m. Advanced tickets required: www faithhopeandcharityevents.com/event-center

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Five Pint Mar y 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

SATURDAY • JULY 5

Sisters Depot Live Music: Bob Baker & Haute Melange playing “Gypsy Swing Jazz” 6 to 8 p.m. Call 541-904-4660 for reservations.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: The Substitutes 6 to 9 p.m. Advanced tickets required: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com/event-center

The Barn Live Music: Jackrat 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

The Yard at Hardtails Live Music: Status Fear 7 to 10 p .m. No cover. Info: hardtailsoregon.com/events.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show

FRIDAY • JULY 11

Black Butte Ranch Art at the Ranch 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the Lodge event space. Featuring plein air painters, silent auction, and appetizers. Presented by Black Butte Ranch Art Guild. Purchase tickets, $20 at bbr-or.com/aatr Sisters High School Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show fundraiser "A Town Covered in Quilts" a 50-year retrospective with Jean and Valori Wells, presented by Betty Gientke, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets: www.soqs.org.

Makin’ It Local Artist Reception: Kathy Deggendorfer the 2025 Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show poster artist. See her new fine art prints. 3 to 6 p.m. Refreshments served. 281 W. Cascade Ave. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: The Junebugs 6 to 9 p.m. Advanced tickets required: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com/event-center

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Bob Baker and Mark Barringer 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

SATURDAY • JULY 12

Downtown Sisters Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 49th annual outdoor quilt showcase. 1000+ quilts hanging all over town. Free Info: www.soqs.org.

Sisters High School Sports Field Starshine Stargazing Tour 9:30 to 10:30 p.m. Enjoy the brilliance of Central Oregon's incredible night sky together with a local naturalist and educator. You'll hear an ancient story about the stars, locate constellations, and see visible planets, the moon, and other astronomical objects through a 6" telescope Tickets and info: starshine-theater.com/sisters-stargazing

SUNDAY

• JULY 13

FivePine Lodge campus Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show "Save it for Sunday!" 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Display of quilts by quilter and designer Karen Stone Free Info: www.soqs.org.

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Thomas T and The Blue Chips 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio Free and open to all ages

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.

Display ads in

The Nugget start at

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 • JULY 6

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music, community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Silvertone Devils 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio Free and open to all ages

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.

MONDAY • JULY 7

Paulina Springs Books Poetr y 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 • JULY 9

Sisters Fire Hall Frontiers in Science Lecture Series: “Whispers Across the Mountains — Probing the Cosmos in Gravitational Waves" with Dr Shane Larson presented by Sisters Science Club Doors open at 6:30 p.m., lecture at 7 p.m.

Adults $5 at the door; teachers and students free Info: sistersscienceclub.org Sisters Fire Hall is located at 301 S. Elm St.

Makin’ It Local Artist Reception: Susan Porteous of Green Bird Press. Susan creates quilt-inspired letterpress prints, maps, and Central Oregon themed art. 3 to 6 p.m. Refreshments served. 281 W. Cascade Ave.

The Barn Live Music: Leadbetter Band 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.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 • JULY 10

Makin’ It Local Artist Reception: Cher yl Chapman of Silly Dog Art Glass. Cheryl creates whimsical reverse enamel painted fused glass in assorted designs. 3 to 6 p.m. Refreshments served. 281 W. Cascade Ave.

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

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 12th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Sign up at 5:30 For information call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Paul Iarrobino presents "Defiant Moments: Unyielding Voices, Unstoppable Change," 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Sisters Community Church Live Music: Jeff Miller and the Congregation Summer Concert Series on the lawn. 6 p.m. Free (donation to local nonprofits who provide assistance for those in need in our community, is appreciated). Bring chairs or blanket. More info at www.sisterschurch.com.

WEDNESDAY • JULY 16

The Barn Live Music: Robot Mushroom 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.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 • JULY 17

The Barn Live Music: In the Rounds 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Kurt Silva 5 to 8 p.m. Advanced tickets required: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com/event-center Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 12th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30 For information call Eurosports at 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Cindy Scharkey presents "Permission For Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden," 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

FRIDAY • JULY 18

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Moral Soulstice 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

SATURDAY • JULY 19

The Yard at Hardtails Live Music: Pendleton Hwy 7 to 10 p .m. No cover. Info: hardtailsoregon.com/events.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Precious Byrd 6 to 9 p.m. Advanced tickets required: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com/event-center

The Barn Live Music: Harju Hootenanny 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

SUNDAY • JULY 20

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Saturday, July 12, 2025 •

Gary Nicholson took this photo of one of four juvenile great horn owls on his property off Holmes Road.

Kris Kristovich captured an exceptional sunset over the Three Sisters as the late twilight of early summer brings its special light to the northern hemisphere.

Endurance riders run in Sisters

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Three dozen competitive equestrians from multiple states met at Sisters Cow Camp last weekend for the 61st Santiam Cascade Endurance Ride.

The gathering was held about four miles south of town off Pole Creek Road, the start and finish point for one of two rides – a 30 miler and a more arduous 50-mile run.

The camp got its name decades ago when local ranchers used this site to gather their cows from their summer grazing range. Today, Sisters Cow Camp is a popular horse camping area and equestrian trailhead, but you can still see evidence of its prior use—a historic shed, large pole corrals, and cattle loading chutes.

Sisters Cow Camp offers a variety of fun equestrian trails. The 150-mile MetoliusWindigo Trail runs right past the camp, and other nearby trails connect with it to create loop rides that feature mountain views, running creeks, and open ponderosa pine forest.

Riders often take the trail to Graham Corral, passing through an interesting grotto formed by lava pressure ridges.

The 30-mile loop was a mix of single-track, two-track and cinder roads riding 16 miles to Whispering Pines via Trout Creek Butte for the first of two vet checks, and then the return to Cow Camp.

The 50 started with the 30-mile loop with an out check at Whispering Pines. Once off the 30-mile loop, riders had another mandatory hold in camp for horses to cool down. Then the 11-mile Marquis Loop went to Pole Creek and back to camp for the final hold followed by the nine-mile Jimerson Loop which crosses Trout Creek twice where horses and riders

Equestrians rode

or 50-mile endurance course out of Sisters Cow Camp last weekend.

can cool.

Endurance is a long-distance sport covering variations in altitude, terrain, and weather that tests the fitness and stamina of the horse as well as the athlete’s discipline and horsemanship skills.

Periodic checkpoints occur throughout the competition to ensure the health and fitness of the horse and athlete. Given their ability to meet and master physical challenges, Arabians and their close kin dominate in this discipline.

In 1955, the late Wendell T. Robie with five horsemen rode the Western States Trail from the post office in Tahoe City to Auburn, proving that horses could cover 100 miles in one day. Through the energy and vision of Robie, the Western States Trail Foundation was established, along with the Western States Trail Ride, also known as the Tevis Cup.

Today there are more than 1,000 recognized endurance rides held in all 50 states. With its 61-year history, the

Santiam Cascade run is the longest running endurance ride in the Pacific Northwest.

Little Donnie Gilmore, age eight, who was tagging along to watch his aunt ride, didn’t think 30 or 50 miles on a horse was a big deal until Uncle Ted explained that “30 miles is like riding your horse from Sisters to Redmond and back and 50 was like riding to Powell Butte and back — on the back of a moving animal.”

First place for the 30-mile run went to Michaela Andrews of Woodburn, riding an Arabian, SVR Teeka. Sara Anderson from Bend finished first in the 50-mile run on an Appendix Quarter Horse named Granito D Oro.

Officials urge sober boating this summer

The Marine Board, Sheriff’s Offices across the state, and the Oregon State Police will be participating in Operation Dry Water, July 4-6, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities related to boating under the influence of intoxicants (BUII).

Boating under the influence of intoxicants means prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any other substance that impairs a person’s ability to operate a boat safely. The effects of drugs and alcohol are amplified on the water, due to the combined impacts of environmental stressors like sun glare, wind, wave motion, and other factors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, making sudden immersion into cold water an even greater risk of drowning.

Impaired boaters face serious penalties. The

consequences of a BUII conviction include possible jail time, a $6,250 fine, and loss of boating privileges. Marine officers can legally obtain blood, breath, or urine if a boater fails field sobriety tests.

“Recreational boating is a relatively safe activity when boating sober, wearing life jackets, and staying aware of the surroundings,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. So far this year, the common denominators for boating fatalities are not wearing a life jacket and hazardous water.

If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, call 911 to report it.

For more information about Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdry

a 30-mile

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

was a festival wonderland. It was at once intimate and expansive. Friends — many instantly formed — and family grouped together in cozy packs absorbing world-class music.

Shoes were kicked off and barefoot dancing was spontaneous and constant. Straw hats were the order of the day to shade the glare. Sunscreen flowed like honey. Lawn chairs, blankets, camp chairs puzzled together.

Folks settled in for a musical journey that began Friday night with free entry for a community performance served up by the umbrella organization SFF Presents. It was mostly locals that night, many with children or grandchildren. Music Friday was as much background as entertainment with conversations centered around the joy of living in Sisters. The gratitude for small-town living with big, occasional happenings.

Darrell (Doc) Cosden, living in Sisters, captured the community mood this way: “The Big Ponderoo has truly come of age. It’s challenging to gain traction with a new festival, but SFF Presents has succeeded brilliantly.

“From emerging artists like the Wilder Flower workshopping with our student fiddle club and bringing them on stage, to renowned headliners like Sierra Hull, and beloved regulars like John Craigie and Lindsay Lou, this festival stands out as the best small festival anyone could hope for. I love living here and being a part of this incredible musical community.”

Sandy Reilly and wife Rose were in a group of 13, thoroughly immersed in the celebratory music.

“Amazing music from all corners of the country from extremely talented musicians. Driving rhythms and lyrics that at times are soulful and memory driven and other times filled with stories of laughter,” Reilly said.

“Dancing, so much dancing. Talking with people from Alaska to Massachusetts who seem to know every performer and group. This is one of the events that brings praise of a friendly community bringing the best of people together in celebration,” he continued.

Outside Village Green the town seemed eerily quiet. Festivalgoers didn’t need to leave the park as food and libations were aplenty. And eclectic. Like po’ boys, alligator, and other Cajun dishes. Barrio food. Loaded hot dogs, even vegan ones. Wraps and wontons. Plus, gelato and

smoothies.

More than 100 came by bicycle where they were parked in the Blazin Saddles bike valet pad. Hundreds more walked to the event. Surprisingly, parking appeared not to be an issue.

There was nothing hurried about Big Ponderoo. It was a laid back affair from start to finish and every minute in between. That’s not to say it wasn’t rhythmic or lacked energy. To the contrary audience engagement at times was pulsating.

As usual for a Sisters summer weekend, visitors unaware of the event were captivated by the mood and sounds. Backroads, an international adventure tour operator, was running one of their 10 six-day cycling tours that includes an overnight in Sisters.

The 20-plus riders made an unscheduled stop on their way up the 242 and stood outside the Green swaying to the music and marveling at the depth of talent.

“What a sweet surprise, a little bonus of sorts,” said rider Marcie Clayburn from North Carolina. “Y’all got some real magic going on here.”

Erin Pihl, SFF Presents communication manager, summed up the event this way: “Big Ponderoo year three was a triumphant

success! As a team we feel like we’ve really hit our stride and understand exactly what it is we’re going for with this event. The music this year touched many corners of the musical spectrum with epic bluegrass picking, rocking Americana, lively zydeco, and quirky songwriting, offering a little something for everyone. We’re so grateful to see another year of growth in such an uncertain festival market, all while maintaining

the intimate, personal feel that’s so important to us.

“We saw 2,000 people attend our free Friday night community celebration and gathered with people from all over country throughout the weekend to enjoy world-class music in our tiny little town. It feels great, and we’re already psyched for next year.”

“Oh, yeah! We’ll be back. You can take that to the bank,” said Lilibet Robinson from Boise.

Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience filled Village Green with a joyful sound on Saturday at Big Ponderoo.

PHOTO BY JACK TURPEN

Big Ponderoo left hearts full last weekend — and everybody is already looking forward to next year.

PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT

Tax on nicotine products to fund wildfire mitigation

By Mia Maldonado Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon House in a 37-8 vote passed a bill to create a new tax on oral nicotine products and use those funds to combat wildfires.

House Bill 3940 would impose a 65-cent tax on nicotine pouches with 20 units or less, with an additional 3.25-cent tax for each additional unit, rounded to the nearest whole cent beginning January 1.

A third of the funds raised from the tax would go to the Landscape Resiliency Fund for landscape restoration projects, and fuel reduction projects on public and private lands. The remaining funds would go to the Community Risk Reduction Fund, which is managed by the Oregon State Fire Marshal to provide funds to local governments to reduce fire risk.

Legislative records show the oral nicotine tax would raise approximately $14.3 million for these funds over the next two years.

Chief bill sponsor Rep. Bobby Levy, R-Echo, said the bill represents over a year of diligent work, collaboration, and commitment to finding a sustainable path forward for wildfire prevention and response.

“(The bill) recognizes that the cost of wildfires is too great to ignore — and that we cannot continue to fund our response efforts with onetime dollars and last-minute band-aids,” Levy said. “Our goal was simple, but vital: create a sustainable, longterm funding mechanism for wildfire prevention and suppression that protects both the environment and the people who call Oregon home.”

Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, said the bill is a 21st-century solution to wildfire mitigation.

“This bill is about prioritizing wildfire mitigation, making our communities safer, and building a funding system that is more sustainable,” Marsh said. “We’re investing in resilience and

taking real steps to reduce the long-term human and economic toll of wildfire.”

The bill also creates a grant program called the Wildfire Prepared Structure Program, which would help homeowners update their homes to meet fire safety standards. It would prioritize low-income home owners and those in fire-prone areas.

The bill headed to the Senate for consideration. The bill must receive a Senate vote before taking effect.

The Oregon Legislature adjourned on June 29.

“In Central Oregon, wildfire smoke is a leading cause of public health risk during the summer months,” Sen. Anthony Broadman, D-Bend, said in a press release. “Oregon has a long history of taxing nicotine products to support public health initiatives, and it just makes sense to use revenue associated with these products to help keep Oregonians safe and healthy.”

Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, courtesy https://oregoncapital chronicle.com.

Authors share stories of self-discovery

Five authors will share stories from “Defiant Moments: Unyielding queer voices. Unstoppable change” at Paulina Springs Books on Sunday, July 13, at 2 p.m. This 90-minute session will include authors Alex Dean, Heidi Bruins Green, Jamison Green, Stacey Rice, and editor Paul Iarrobino reading story excerpts followed by Q&A and book signings.

Many people immediately think of the Stonewall riots when they talk about acts of defiance in the queer community, as it is a well-known event in modern American history. However, the reality is much more nuanced and complex. Stonewall was not the only moment of rebellion; it was part of a long history of struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

and community.

“Defiant Moments” shines a light on the lives and stories of LGBTQ+ people across the United States and Canada. It brings together a collection of stories that explore intersectional identities during times when

LGBTQ+ people lacked role models or words to fully express identities. These stories celebrate resilience, bravery, and acceptance across generations. Each story shares the strength and resilience of individuals who embrace their true selves. By highlighting these experiences, “Defiant Moments” encourages readers to stand together and support one another, a reminder of the power of kindness

Paul Iarrobino is the founding director of Our Bold Voices. Iarrobino has spent over three decades raising awareness about the intersections of aging, historical oppression, and lived experience of LGBTQ+ older adults as an advocate for equity and inclusion. He combines his storytelling background, field experience, latest research, and sense of curiosity to engage audiences across the country and inspire policy shifts to meet the unique needs of the older LGBTQ+ community. He is one of the founding members of Elder Pride Services and received their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 for providing leadership during their formative years. Iarrobino is the proud recipient of Gay & Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest’s 2021 Queer Hero Award for his groundbreaking work engaging and inspiring community dialogues during the pandemic.

Paulina Springs Books is located at 252 W. Hood Ave.

. Shane Larson Clarkson University Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Gravitational wave observations have revealed black holes dancing a death spiral billions of lightyears from Earth, and neutron stars ripping themselves apart in a titanic burst of light and gravitational energy. This talk xplore what gravitational waves are and how they are measured, and what we are learning from them.

’ll talk about the twin LIGO facilities (one is located in the PNW) searching for gravitational waves using pulsars, and upcoming LISA Observatory in space

July 9 • 7 PM

Paul Iarrobino.

PHOTO PROVIDED

county approval do not address that question.

“The Applicant’s stated long-term goal understandably prompted a wide variety of comments relating to whether and how the Subject Properties should be brought into the City’s UGB or otherwise be developed with urban uses” Brooks wrote in his decision. “I agree with the Applicant, however, that these comments are largely not relevant to the Application. The decision to include the Subject Properties in the City’s UGB is not part of the request in the Application. That decision belongs to the City and will be governed by other standards and criteria.

“The Applicant is not requesting, through this Application, that the Subject Properties actually be included in the City’s UGB, nor is the Applicant requesting approval of any specific type of development if the Zone Change is approved. The findings … therefore address only the specific requests in the Application as a stand-alone application made to the County, regardless of what impact the outcome may or may not have on the City’s UGB process.”

The City’s UGB Steering Committee has recommended that the City move forward with its UGB amendment plans without the McKenzie Meadows property to avoid delay due to expected appeals regarding the property.

On December 24, 2024, MMV requested a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to change from

Forest to Rural Residential Exception Area (RREA) and a corresponding zone change from Forest Use 2 (F2) to Multiple-Use Agricultural (MUA-10). The hearing was April 7, written testimony remained open for new evidence and testimony by April 21, rebuttal evidence and testimony was accepted by May 5, and MMV owner’s final legal argument was submitted on May 12.

As reported in a previous article (The Nugget of April 16, 2025) , “...170 written testimonies on file ... [most] were not germane to the requests before the county... those in opposition sited adverse impacts to wildlife, sensitive plant species, and the Trout Creek corridor, and various other adverse impacts, if developed. Although the ultimate goal might be to have the MMV property considered during the UGB expansion process, that was not what was under the consideration by the Hearings Officer.” As then reported, this was also the case for the vast majority of the public testimonies in the April 7 hearing.

Brook’s recommendation shares three difficulties with the application. The first is that MMV does not address a criterion in OAR 660-004-0022(1) and instead asserts that this rule does not apply at all. Brooks adds, “That is not detrimental to the Application, however, as the plain text of OAR

660-004-0022(1) states that ‘the reasons shall justify why the state policy embodied in the applicable goals should not apply,’ which is simply a restatement of ORS 197.732(2)(c)(A), a criterion, the Applicant does address.” Under the same criterion Brooks finds that the legal language causes the next difficulty in not being clear if covering all or some of the criterion in the section are required.

The third difficulty for the hearings officer, had to do with the vagueness of the legal language in the Deschutes Comprehensive Plan, Goal 4. Please note, from our April 16 report, “Oregon Land Watch, the Rural Lands Program Director & Staff Attorney Rory Isbell, asserted that a ‘market demand’ is not an allowed exception to Goal 4 and that the property has ‘scenic views and riparian resources’ and thus the Deschutes Comprehensive Plan should not be amended.”

Brooks concludes, “Most of the opposing comments in the record do not address Goal 4 Exception criteria. Those that do simply express the opinion that the Applicant’s stated reasons for the Goal Exception are ‘not sufficient.’ They do not, however, dispute with any particularity the Applicant’s assessment of the capability of the Subject Properties to support forest uses, or the Applicant’s assertion that

other Goal 4 policies, like natural resource protections, can actually be enhanced by the MUA-10 zoning.”

Brooks’ recommendation to the county to approve the MMV land use application was submitted to Deschutes County Commissioners for a decision.

The public notice period begins after the County Commissioner’s decision is announced (expected to occur before August 6). That is followed by a 21-day appeals period. The Urban Growth Boundary Steering Committee will meet July 29 to further articulate the boundaries of its Concept A for UGB expansion (see related article) . Depending on the status of the appeals, two meetings are tentatively planned: the city’s planning commission on August 21 and City Council on September 10. To track UGB efforts, go here, https://www. ci.sisters.or.us and enter ‘spotlight’ in the search field.

Van der Kamp to retire at end of month

from page 1

• Must be a resident of Deschutes County.

• Must provide proof of certification or eligibility for certification by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training. Individuals who are qualified and interested in serving as the interim Sheriff will need to submit application materials to the Board by Friday, July 11 at 5 p.m. Candidates can visit www. deschutes.org/interimsheriff for additional information and application instructions. The Board of Commissioners has indicated it intends to identify the appointee before July 31.

Commissioners on the MMV property.

Woodford added that the 58 acres of the MMV property scored well on the list of qualifying criteria for UGB expansions.

The UGB-SC’s goal is to determine which concept to recommend to the planning commission by August 21 and to have recommendations to City Council for their September 10 meeting, Woodford reported. After that City Council’s decision, UGB-SC will begin fleshing out a “preferred alternative.” That will eventually require a mapping out the of the 250 acres identified as needed and within which, the possible locations for 134 residential acres, 53 acres for employment opportunities (commercial/ industrial), 19 acres of park(s), and 15 acres for another school.

Assistant City Manager Kerry Prosser provided a report on the community event on houselessness held June 24 (see related story, page 4). Commissioner Phil Chang had attended the event and was impressed by the civility of and engagement by the public. He also

complimented both the City and the 13 members of the partner groups for their work on this complicated and difficult issue. Chang also noted that, as best as those involved could determine, the unhoused removed from China Hat in Bend, did not relocate to Sisters.

Wildfire resilience was discussed with city council expressing pride with the achievement by the City of Sisters in taking the initiative to put public safety first. Sisters is now the second of only two cities in Oregon with development code in place to address defensible space, and Sisters also has the most stringent code.

Mayor Jennifer Letz shared that “home hardening” development code updates are in progress. She added that City staff are near completion of defensible space work on all City-owned properties, and those improvements will be used as examples in forthcoming public educational events.

Commissioner Patti Adair shared that the county’s transfer station reported, “the City of Sisters was outstanding in the spring cleanup effort.” She also advised to mitigate the fire risk of wood fencing by treating wood fences with Quick Coat, adding it has a proven record of reducing fire ignition.

Chang again expressed how impressed he was with the City of Sisters, its councilors and staff, this time for moving forward on defensible space code because, in the future, this work will save lives and properties in Sisters.

The two groups discussed the soon to be five-member board of commissioners in Deschutes County. Commissioner Tony DeBone talked about the prospect of five new districts in the county. Commissioner Chang voiced his concerns about the next election (see related story, page 8).

A Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council update was presented by Councilor Cheryl Pellerin and Commissioner DeBone. They shared that the new Cascade East Transits (CETs) ‘dark grey’ busses are coming online showing the new logo, that there will be bus fares through a purchase of a CET card, and soon Sisters will see scheduled stops at the newly completed Sisters Gateway Park and Mobility Hub.

The workshop ended on Adair’s question as to the status of the Locust Roundabout art. She was advised the next steps for that project will be up to City Council, likely in their August 13 meeting and that no art has been selected, as yet.

In the regular council meeting:

• Resolution 2025-10 was approved for two current fiscal year supplemental budget adjustments. One for underestimation of tourism income and thus additional budget due to Explore Sisters. The other adjusted the budget to show funds moved to cover unanticipated repairs made on the sewer system. Councilor Gary Ross complimented the responsible work by Budget Director Joe O’Neill, noting the two adjustments were minor to the overall budget plan. City Manager Jordan Wheeler advised that major problems can occur for any city that would require major financial adjustments no matter how well the accounts are managed.

• Resolution 2025-11 was approved to implement the July 1 rate increases.

The Water and Waste rate increases were communicated to the public for several months. The average household of four in Sisters, will see an average of less than a five-dollar increase in their monthly bill. That bill will fluctuate based on water usage. The related system development charges also increased. The resolution included a seven-dollar water dispensing fee at a new station located at the Sisters Gateway Park and Mobility Hub, to dispense approximately 35 gallons of potable water. Lastly, 2025-11 included the negotiated monthly rate increase of 4.8 percent for Republic Services (they had requested a six percent increase). Watch June 25 meetings here www.ci.sisters.or.us, Agenda and Meetings tab, Recent Meetings tab and scroll down.

In Congress, July 4, 1776

teen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separ ate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the L aws for Naturalization of Fo reigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting la rge Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive o n the h igh Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount a nd payment o f thei r salaries.

He has erected a m ultitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Pe titioned f or Redre ss in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Ty ra nt, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We h ave reminded them of the circumstances of our emigra tion and settlement here. We h ave appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the fr ee Sy stem of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves i nvested w it h po wer to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the go od Pe ople of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declar e, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent St ates, they have full Power to l ev y Wa r, conclude Peace, contract A l liances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our L ives, our Fortunes a nd ou r sacred Honor

T Thhe unnaaniimmou o s D Decllaarat a i ion n f of thhe thi h rr th them into o co c mppllian a ce e wiith h hi his s me m asurreses.

People behind The Nugget — Kimberly Young

The Nugget Newspaper welcomes Kimberly Young as the newspaper’s new Community Marketing Partner.

Young will work with local and regional businesses to assist them with their marketing and advertising — across all of The Nugget Newspaper’s platforms: print, digital, and social media — through the weekly Nugget Newspaper, and publications including Spirit of Central Oregon Magazine and Sisters Oregon Guide.

“ The Nugget is committed to helping our local business community to thrive, and we’re working to expand our capabilities and offerings to help them do that,” said Editor in Chief Jim Cornelius. “I knew Kimberly through some Western connections, and I thought of her immediately when this position opened up. I knew she’d be a perfect fit. The stars aligned; she was looking to take on something new, and here she is. We are very pleased to have her on board.”

Successful marketing is all about storytelling — and Young genuinely enjoys getting at the core of the story her clients are trying to tell.

She recognizes that operating a small business is full of challenges.

“I want to learn what obstacles they are trying to overcome, and how we can help them overcome that,” she said.

Young’s own story started

in the Philippines, as a daughter of a military family. She was living in San Diego with her then-husband when they visited Bend over a 4th of July weekend in 2002. Like so many visitors, they were taken with the place and decided to move here.

“I cried my first winter,” Kimberly confessed. But the place got to her.

“I fell in love with Bend,” she said.

She sees in Sisters the qualities that she values — a sense of community where people know and care about each other.

“Sisters is what Bend was when I first moved here to Central Oregon — and it has what Bend has lost,” she said.

Young has an adventurous spirit, which pushes her to learn and to try new things.

“I have a personal pact with myself that I try something new every month, that I haven’t done before,” she said.

That has led her to try blacksmithing, welding, dance — just to “see what sticks.”

What has stuck is the Western way of life.

“In 2022, I went out to Eastern Oregon to Diamond and pushed cattle for a week, and that’s when I fell in love with the Western thing,” she said.

That has led to her involvement in cowboying, rodeo, and an officer’s role in Tri-County Cattlewomen,

which held a conference with participants from across Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana last weekend at Black Butte Ranch.

The organization is dedicated to advocating for livestock producers — and educating people on agriculture. Getting ag into the classroom is particularly appealing to Young.

“I was an urban kid, too, that was never exposed to lifestyle and what it takes,” she said.

The mother of a 16-yearold, she likes “hanging out with my kid as much as possible.” She’s a CrossFit athlete of 13 years.

“I love going to concerts, listening to good music,” she said with a smile. “I love to eat and bake.”

In a matter of weeks, she has come to appreciate the role she and the newspaper play in the community.

“I’m falling in love with it more and more, because we are having an impact,” she said.

She is enjoying meeting the people with whom The Nugget works in the community, and she is excited about working in partnership with them to help everyone thrive and prosper.

“I genuinely care,” she said. “I want everyone to succeed. It’s the American Dream, to work for yourself and be successful at it.”

Contact Kimberly Young at 541-549-9941 or ads@ nuggetnews.com.

Kimberly Young.

High Desert Rendezvous Returns on August 23

Signature fundraiser supports Museum exhibitions and programs.

Tickets are now available for the High Desert Museum’s signature fundraiser, High Desert Rendezvous — one of the longest-running galas in Central Oregon. Rendezvous returns for its 36th year on Saturday, August 23, from 5 to 9 p.m.

“We are excited to come together with our friends and supporters during what is always an engaging and inspiring evening,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We will celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and share our gratitude for a generous community.”

In 2024, the Rendezvous set a new fundraising record, grossing over $620,000 for the Museum’s exhibitions and programs. The Museum features up to nine temporary, rotating exhibitions annually, cares for more than 100 animals and welcomes more than 10,000 schoolage children per year for educational field trips and programs. Rendezvous provides vital support for these efforts.

The Rendezvous experience starts as guests stroll up the Museum’s entryway and are greeted by animal ambassadors such as hawks, beavers and desert tortoises. Inside, a hosted bar and passed appetizers await, as well as games and greetings from living history interpreters.

Dinner takes place outside beneath a tent. In addition to a live auction and entertainment, Rendezvous is also a chance to bid on art in the juried exhibition and silent auction Art in the West, which opens at the

Museum on Saturday, July 5. A gallery guide of the artwork in the exhibition is available on the Museum’s website, www.highdesert museum.org/aiw.

An individual ticket for Rendezvous is $200 for members and $250 for nonmembers. Sponsorship tables are available for parties of eight or 10. Tickets are available at www. highdesertmuseum.org/hdr.

The 2025 Rendezvous Honoree is the Tykeson Family Foundation, recognizing their profound impact in Central Oregon through their steadfast dedication to education, health care, and the arts. A cornerstone in the community, the foundation continues to contribute to a range of initiatives including improving health care facilities and expanding educational opportunities. Led by Amy Tykeson, the former CEO of BendBroadband, the Tykeson Family Foundation supports the Museum’s many programs and initiatives.

“The Tykeson Family Foundation embodies the true spirit of philanthropy,” said Museum Chief Philanthropy Officer Kia Sullivan. “Their impact is felt not just in what they give but in how they give, with thoughtfulness and a deep commitment to our community. We’re honored by their partnership and the meaningful role they play in advancing the Museum’s mission.”

The 36th annual High Desert Rendezvous is presented by Bonta Gelato and Ferguson Wellman Wealth Management, with support from Vista Capital Partners. Learn more about and register for the High Desert Rendezvous at www.high desertmuseum.org/hdr.

This Week’s Crossword Sponsors

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

CLASSIFIED RATES

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

DEADLINE: MONDAY, noon preceding WED. publication.

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.

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

CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS

Unique upstairs 3 bedroom, 2 bath with all appliances. Private entrance. Move-in special: 1st month free with 18-month lease. $2,600 monthly. — 541-549-0792 —

3 bedroom, 2 bath house with attached garage. Near old grade school. Refrigerator, stove/oven, washer/dryer, A/C. Fenced yard. Small pets allowed. Owner pays all utilities including internet. $2,500 first/last month's rent plus $300 cleaning deposit ($500 with pets). No smoking. Call 541-639-2875.

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

201 For Sale

GAMMILL LONGARM

Classic Plus 2005 Machine 12' Table & Light Bar

Call for details 541-815-6853

Exercise bike - $20: back rest, folds to 22"X19".

Heated massage chair - $45: reclines, folds to 12"X26". Marianne 541-904-4683

REI Wilderness kayaks

Pungo 120 and Tsunami 120 excellent condition, straps and gear included. $450 each, less than half of cost.

John: 503-522-6636

CHRISTIAN BOOKS

inside "A Touch of Faith" 141 W Main Ave, Sisters

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 – 18155 Hwy. 126 East –SistersForestProducts.com Order Online! 541-410-4509 541-699-7740

205 Garage & Estate Sales

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

401 Horses ORCHARD GRASS HAY

ALFALFA TRITICALE

New 2025 crop. Barn stored. 3-tie bales. $240-$340/ton. Hwy. 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895

403 Pets

I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Home of Brando's Natural Dog Biscuits • 541-306-7551 • Julie Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875

SISTERS WHISKERS

Your purr-fect friend is waiting for you at our local nonprofit cat rescue! Apply to adopt at: sisterswhiskers.org

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

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

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

I am Dan the Mobile Barber and I will come to you with 35 years experience barbering. I serve Sisters, Redmond, and Terrebonne. Give me a call at 541-233-6395.

I AM A CAREGIVER Looking for work in Sisters, Part-Time Please call Lynn 503-274-0214.

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.

501 Computers & Communications

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

502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

M & J CARPET CLEANING

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

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

Tree Service & Forestry

Wildfire Fuels reduction

Debris Chipping/Mastication

Forest Health Thinning • Land & Lot Clearing

• Tree Removal Will Moore, 541-409-5404

ISA Certified Arborist We are the experts you’ve been looking for! LCB# 100129 & Oregon Professional Logger 71395048 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

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

Construction & Renovation

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

– Sisters Oregon Guide –Pick one up throughout town!

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

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

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

Earthwood Timber

• Recycled fir and pine beams

• Mantels and accent timbers

• Sawmill/woodshop services EWDevCoLLC@gmail.com

Custom Homes

Additions - Remodels

Residential Building Projects

Becke William Pierce

CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384

Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com — Serving Sisters Since 2010 — Pat Burke

LOCALLY OWNED

CRAFTSMAN BUILT

CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062

www.sistersfencecompany.com

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

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

CASCADE GARAGE DOORS

Factory Trained Technicians

Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553

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

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

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

Ridgeline Electric, LLC

Serving all of Central Oregon

• Residential • Commercial

• Industrial • Service

541-588-3088 • CCB #234821

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Remodels • Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas

monteselectric@hotmail.com

CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860

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

Full Service Excavation

Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com

541-549-1472 • CCB #76888

Drainfield

• Minor & Major Septic Repair

• All Septic Needs/Design & Install

General Excavation

• Site Preparation

• Rock & Stump Removal

• Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation

• Building Demolition Trucking

• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water

• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly

• The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Whatever You Want!

BANR Enterprises, LLC

Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls

Residential & Commercial

CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977

www.BANR.net

604 Heating & Cooling

Sisters, Oregon's

Exclusive HVAC Service

Residential & Commercial

Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair

541-588-5667

SistersHeatingAir.com

ACTION AIR

Heating & Cooling, LLC

Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com

CCB #195556

541-549-6464

605 Painting

EMPIRE PAINTING

Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining

CCB#180042

541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk Interior/Exterior Painting

Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327

peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491

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

606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance

– All 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

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

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

STEVE'S HAULING

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

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

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

701 Domestic Services

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

T H E N U G G E T N E W S P A P E R 442 E. Main Avenue POB 698, Sisters, OR 97759 541-549-9941

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

802 Help Wanted

Part Time Sales Associate

We are looking for a friendly, reliable, team player who enjoys working with the public in a retail environment. You must be willing to work some weekend days. Applications available at Stitchin' Post, 311 W. Cascade Ave. in Sisters or by email diane.j@stitchinpost.com. Questions? Contact diane.j@stitchinpost.com

Work with Vacasa this summer in Sisters and Black Butte as a Piecework Housekeeper cleaning vacation homes. Employment dates 5/11-9/26. Piece rate pay ranging $40-$225 per unit with average $110 per unit. $22/hour for paid training, required meetings, and non-post reservation cleans. $1,000 sign-on bonus paid $500 after 30 days and $500 after 90 days of employment. Apply online at www.vacasa.com/careers.

Now Hiring Housekeeping Team Member Join the crew at our cozy camp-style retreat nestled in the forest!

We're looking for friendly, dependable individuals to join our housekeeping team at Lake Creek Lodge. PT/FT. We offer flexible schedules & excellent compensation. www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW FS Rd. 1419 Camp Sherman SERVICE TO PROVIDE? BUSINESS TO PROMOTE? VEHICLE FOR SALE? HOUSE TO RENT? LOOKING FOR LAND? GARAGE TOO FULL? NEED SOME HELP? Advertise in The Nugget Newspaper's CLASSIFIEDS For no additional cost your classified goes ONLINE! Go to www.NuggetNews.com DEADLINE: Every Monday by noon. Call 541-549-9941

PHOTO BY KELLI CARTER

Senate sends gun control bill to Kotek

By Shaanth Nanguneri Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon Senate on Friday morning, June 27, sent a bill to Gov. Tina Kotek’s desk that outlaws rapid-fire devices and empowers local cities and counties to restrict the use of concealed handguns in public buildings.

In an 18-11 vote, Senate Bill 243 sailed through the Senate along straight party lines. The bill already passed the Senate, but the chamber had to concur on an amendment from the House earlier this week to include an implementation date of March 15, 2026.

That will give lawmakers time to pass and create any necessary tweaks in the wake of further legal challenges, particularly regarding Measure 114, a ballot proposal approved by voters in 2022 that would mandate anyone who buys a gun in Oregon receive firearms safety training and a permit. The state’s Court of Appeals allowed the law to go into effect in March, but the Oregon Supreme Court agreed to hear further constitutional challenges earlier this month.

“We are empowering local governments, cities and counties who are under their own pressures, under their own hazards these days, to make the difficult decision one way or another,” said Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, on the Senate floor.

Reprinted courtesy Oregon Capital Chronicle.

LETTERS

Continued from page 2

GPS, and first-run movies. The in-car computer took up so much space I could hardly squish in the passenger seat.

We cruised around, yakked and solved the world’s problems, and responded to a few calls for service and officer-initiated activity. Old war stories occupied most of the conversation; nothing beats exaggerated tales of derring-do. I was appropriately told to stand back when the deputies interacted with the public; tactics and privacy taking precedence.

We talked at length about the changes in police work over the last few decades and the current American environment of distrust, contention, and apprehension. Still and all, time for law enforcement to stay true “To Protect and Serve.” Many law enforcement agencies both state and local abide by that motto. What goes with that is doing the right thing no matter what. The path, although sometimes difficult, is usually quite easy to identify. All it takes is knowledge, integrity, belief in the mission and the law, and steadfastness. Like Lt. Davis et al.

Residents of Sisters: You are in good hands.

Addendum: The motto “To Protect and Serve” was first coined and adopted by the Los Angeles Police Department in 1955. It was a result of a contest to create some words to live by in the police world. The winner was a police officer named Joseph Dorobek. He was awarded a $100 prize for his insight.

Chris West

To the Editor:

s s s

Roundabout art

I’d like to say amen to Tom Clasen’s letter in the last Nugget issue. I’ve been feeling the same but couldn’t express it adequately.

I appreciate so much how the roundabout at the other end of town has been a perfect representation of our area year round; it quietly blends in magnificently. That’s what is needed for the new roundabout.

Rather than highlighting an isolated event, even an annual one, how about typical ordinary pleasures of Sisters? Living closely with our wildlife comes quickly to mind, but since that is already represented, let’s see… there are activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking. Myself, I would be content with a continuation of the scenario at the other roundabout, but I suppose that would be an unpopular preference. It’s going to be there for a long time, we can reasonably expect. So we do want to decide carefully.

Cindy Erickson

Dear Editor,

s s s

Having read the letter to the editor by Tom Clasen, I have changed my mind about the bull riding artwork for the center of the roundabout at Locust and Cascade and would like to return to my original suggestion of the statue of the stallion that is off to the side of Cascade. However, I am told that this statue is too small for the space, so perhaps the City could find or commission an artist to design a horse of correct size

for the space, or several horses standing/grazing in the space? I still think that something western themed is appropriate for our western town!

Terry Hardi

s s s

Political opinions

To the Editor: In the June 11 edition of The Nugget , Jeff Mackey expressed his feelings of being troubled by Jean Sage’s reaction to John Miller’s reference to “the enemy within” at the veterans celebration.

I find it the height of irony, Jeff, that you claim to understand Jean’s position “if taken from the viewpoint of being political,” and then proceed to express your political positions. And might I add, the tone of your letter was so condescending as to be quite off-putting, which I hope, Jeff, was not your intention.

It is possible for citizens in a democracy to have differing opinions on a myriad of subjects, including a wish not to live under a religious theocracy; in other words, Jeff, your “One Nation Under God,” which raises the question, whose God?

I remain optimistic, Jeff, that we can love our neighbors without having to agree on every position you outline in your letter, and remind you that there are a multitude of “law-abiding and common-sense patriotic Americans” who deserve our respect and who do not share your political opinions.

Renee Soasey s s s

Mad at The Nugget

To the Editor:

Regarding “No kings, no peasants” (June 18, 2025): That The Nugget would select this disoriented and incoherent diatribe for publication is more revealing of its chief editor than the author of the screed — all in the name of “freedom of the press,” I suppose.

Very well, but in future I suggest The Nugget post such opinions on the wall of a restroom stall at the Sister’s Greens (sic), for those who seek reading material at that venue.

Randall Raeder

Editor’s reply:

It’s tempting to circular-file a letter to the editor like Mr. Raeder’s that reads more like a temper tantrum than a substantive response to an 800-word column. But — all in the name of freedom of the press and welcoming a range of opinions — there it is. We attempted to contact Mr. Raeder to see if he was willing to expound on what he found “revealing” in the publication of Steve Woodside’s opinion column. He did not respond.

We’ll take this opportunity to note once more that a diverse community means a diversity of viewpoints. Readers are bound to find some of them challenging, frustrating, or even distasteful. By all means, challenge opinions you disagree with or simply don’t like. But a little more effort than Mr. Raeder’s attempt to be insulting is welcome.

Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief

Allen and Allison Schmuck travelled to many places in Italy — including a cheese farm in Tuscany and Cinque Terre — where they enjoyed great food and wine while reading The Nugget!