The Nugget
Sisters, Oregon
A festive Fourth...
Sisters dug into a pieeating contest — with pies provided by Sisters Bakery — at the annual Sisters 4th Fest. The pie-eating event was just one of many family activities that filled Sisters Village Green on Friday, July 4. Seephotoessay,page16.
Man killed in Hwy. 20 wreck
A 63-year-old St. Helens man died in a single-vehicle crash on Highway 20 west of Sisters on Monday, June 30. Oregon State Police responded to the wreck at approximately 8:59 a.m. According to OSP, a preliminary investigation indicated that a blue Subaru Outback, operated by Randolf Lee Burghart was traveling eastbound on Highway 20 near milepost 95 when, for unknown reasons, it left the roadway. The vehicle struck a guardrail, bounced off, crossed into the oncoming
lane, and collided with a tree.
The operator and sole occupant (Burghart) was pronounced dead at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the onscene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Black Butte Fire Department, Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department, Black Butte Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
City restructuring public works
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Looking both at continued growth in Sisters and a laundry list of public works projects close to $30 million, the job of public works director, held for 14 years by Paul Bertagna, is being vacated. Management of streets, water, sewer and
infrastructure will be split between Bertagna and Jackson Dumanch who has served as project coordinator the past five years.
Bertagna’s new job title is capital projects manager and Dumanch now serves as public works operations manager. The latter position
Citizens seek camping enforcement
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
A citizens group has formed in Sisters to bring pressure to bear on authorities to address security and safety issues generated by people living in the forest. With the name “Concerned Citizens Coalition National Forest Land Near Sisters, OR” the group has 104 members. Patty Schild of Tollgate is the ad hoc head.
Schild has systematically recorded comments and accounts of incidents in the Deschutes National Forest around Sisters. They are kept
See CAMPING on page 13
Sisters set to wrap itself in quilts
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
When Sisters wakes up on Saturday, July 12, to find itself cozily wrapped in more than a thousand colorful quilts, it will be marking a significant milestone: 50 years of hosting the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show (SOQS).
The event, which started in 1975 with just a handful of family quilts hung on a local shop, is now an internationally renowned event that brings thousands of fiber arts enthusiasts to town each summer.
Hood Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic on Saturday, so that attendees can stroll among the quilts, which will also adorn storefronts on other streets through town.
Over a half-century, SOQS has been an immense economic boon to Sisters. Visitors to the Quilt Show seem to love to explore the downtown shops. Many downtown merchants consistently report that Quilt Show Saturday is their biggest single day of the year.
Over time, the influx of quilters has spread out from a single day to a week or two.
Many fiber artists are already in town this week, as
Stitchin’ Post hosts the annual Quilter’s Affair, a days-long immersion in quilting and other art forms taught by some of the most prominent quilt artists in the world at Sisters High School.
On Friday, Jean and Valori Wells will reminisce about the origins and evolution of the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show in a ticketed fundraising event at Sisters High School, titled “A Town Covered In Quilts.”
Jean Wells was a young single mother running a small quilt shop in Sisters in the summer of 1975. She had been teaching junior high
school home economics, and had expanded her teaching to include adults and quilts.
“When I opened the store, it was because I needed a classroom,” she recalled in an interview with The Nugget’s Spirit of Central Oregon magazine.
That was May, 1975. In June, fellow shopkeeper Cathi Howell approached her about hanging up some quilts for a summer festival.
“I went to Mom’s house and just loaded up the car with family quilts,”
Jean Wells launched the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show 50 years ago, with a handful of quilts hung on her shop.
PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT
PHOTO BY JAROD GATLEY
OPINION
Letters to the Editor…
The Nugget welcomes contributions from its readers, which must include the writer’s name, address, and phone number. Letters to the Editor is an open forum for the community and contains unsolicited opinions not necessarily shared by the Editor. The Nugget reserves the right to edit, omit, respond, or ask for a response to letters submitted to the Editor. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. Unpublished items are not acknowledged or returned. The deadline for all letters is 10 a.m. Monday.
A happy ending
To the Editor:
On Saturday we were fortunate to witness something not uncommon at this time of year. We spotted two adult killdeer birds and their teeny hatchlings near our Sisters home. We were enjoying the sights and sounds of the parents showing the littles how to navigate when an unfortunate accident occurred. One of the hatchlings was running along the curb and fell through the grate on the storm drain. Lots of commotion followed with the adults circling and calling, the hatchling deep in the storm drain returning their calls. They were panicked. We were distraught but didn’t know what to do. It was Saturday evening, 4th of July weekend.
This morning, my husband went out and heard a weak and distressed call from the storm drain. We called Think Wild who didn’t have anyone to come out. They recommended that we call non-emergency sheriff phone line. An officer was available and came out. He was young and strong enough to pull the storm drain grate off. Attempts were made to scoop the little bird out with
no success. Finally, the officer, with full gear on, got down into the hole and scooped up the hatchling with a gloved hand. We carried it to the area close to the nest and hid it in the shade under a tree. The whole mission took under a half hour. Several hours later, when my husband and I went to check, the hatchling was gone. No sign of struggle and no tiny bird corpse anywhere to be seen.
A tiny life was saved today, right here in Sisters.
We are grateful for the happy ending. Our world could use more of them (happy endings and killdeer).
Candace
Brey s s s
Kindness
To the Editor:
In response to a column written by Steve Woodside June 17 in The Nugget…
Your column presented to me a level of sarcasm and derogation that makes one
See LETTERS on page 8
Sisters Weather Forecast
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Response to ‘heat dome’
and bureaucratic priorities often siphon off much of the award.
Last week, The Nugget published an opinion piece by Roger Worthington, owner of Worthy Brewing and Indie Hops, advocating for Multnomah County’s lawsuit against major oil companies to recover damages from the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat dome, which claimed Oregonian lives. Mr. Worthington passionately argued that “Big Oil” should be held accountable for climate-related harms, citing scientific evidence linking fossil fuel emissions to extreme weather.
While his call for accountability resonates with those alarmed by rising temperatures, his piece omitted a critical fact: Mr. Worthington is the founder of a law firm representing Multnomah County in this lawsuit, poised to gain significant financial benefits if it succeeds. This nondisclosure raises serious ethical concerns about misleading readers and eroding trust in the public discourse.
According to a 2023 KATU News report, Multnomah County’s contingency fee agreement with its legal teams allocates 33 percent of any settlement up to $100 million, 26 percent up to $200 million, and 19 percent for amounts above that. A $200 million settlement, for example, could yield over $50 million in attorney fees, a substantial portion of which would go to Mr. Worthington’s firm. As a capitalist, I respect his right to earn a living through legal work, but transparency is a cornerstone of ethical advocacy.
The Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics urges disclosing conflicts of interest to allow audiences to evaluate arguments critically. By failing to mention his financial stake, Mr. Worthington deprives readers of context needed to assess his motives, undermining the credibility of his advocacy. Transparency is vital because it fosters trust. Without it, public debate risks becoming a platform for hidden agendas rather than a search for solutions.
If the county wins, oil companies are unlikely to absorb the costs. A 2024 American Petroleum Institute study estimated that litigation-driven cost increases could raise gasoline prices by 10–15 cents per gallon in affected regions. These costs would hit hardest for lowincome households. Higher fuel prices ripple through the economy, raising costs for groceries, heating, and small businesses reliant on delivery. Thus, the lawsuit may inadvertently burden the very communities it claims to protect, while attorneys walk away with millions.
Finally, the lawsuit’s focus on U.S. oil companies ignores the global nature of climate change. The International Energy Agency’s 2024 data shows China and India contributed 35 percent and 7 percent of global CO2 emissions, respectively, compared to 14 percent from the U.S. China’s coal consumption, which rose 5 percent in 2024, offsets Western emission reductions. Climate change is transnational— emissions from one region affect the entire planet. Suing U.S. firms may yield local payouts but does little to curb global emissions, especially when developing nations face fewer regulatory constraints.
Effective climate action requires international cooperation, and investment in technologies like carbon capture or renewables, which a 2025 National Renewable Energy Laboratory report projects could cut U.S. emissions by 50 percent by 2035 if scaled.
Litigation that enriches attorneys, while raising consumer costs, is not the answer. Mr. Worthington’s omission of his financial interest undermines trust in the climate debate. Shouldn’t we demand transparency from those shaping public opinion?
The lawsuit’s economic implications also warrant scrutiny. Supporters argue that settlements could fund climate resilience, such as upgrading infrastructure or bolstering disaster relief. Yet, Multnomah County has not specified how funds would be used, and historical examples—like tobacco or opioid settlements—show that legal fees
The problem many of us on the conservative side of the debate have around climate change is that those advocates with the largest platforms, including John Kerry, Al Gore, and hundreds of celebrities, are the biggest hypocrites when it comes to private airplane travel, yacht ownership, and mega mansions where they call home. All animals are equal but climate activists are more equal. As the saying goes, “I’ll believe it’s a crisis when the people who are telling me it’s a crisis start to act like it’s a crisis themselves.”
Steve Woodside Guest Columnist
Presents has stepped up its efforts to enhance environmental sustainability by managing waste and requiring the use of reusable cups for drinks.
SFF Presents expanded zero-waste initiative at Big Ponderoo
While everyone’s attention was on the music at Big Ponderoo, a team of staff and volunteers was working to make sure that the event kept its environmental impact small.
After receiving considerable grants from The Environmental Center in Bend and Can’d Aid’s Crush-It Campaign, as well as support from Republic Services, SFF Presents (SFFP) has extended its waste management initiative.
In 2024, SFFP purchased tailored bins and other sustainability-focused infrastructure in addition to hiring a new “Zero Waste Lead” at Big Ponderoo and Sisters Folk Festival. Under the guidance of the lead, SFFP volunteers are assigned to supervise the
zero waste stations during events to ensure waste is being properly sorted by festival attendees.
For 2025, the Community Innovation Fund grant from The Environment Center in Bend, enabled SFFP to add commercial-level composting, a wider recycling stream, and further dedicated staff at events. Through this aid, the organization was able to donate excess food from the artists’ greenroom to local nonprofit agencies and purchase highly efficient electric coolers for event purposes.
At the third annual Big Ponderoo Music + Art Festival on June 28-29, festival goers diverted 74 percent of refuse away from landfill.
The average for festivals across the country is just eight percent. The diverted
items included recyclables, redeemable cans and bottles, and compostable materials.
“With over 5,152 attendees over the three days of the festival weekend, we’re ecstatic to have been able to increase our waste diversion by over 20 percent from last year,” said SFFP Logistics Coordinator Ruth Williams, who has been leading the effort along with Ty King, SFFP’s logistics and facilities manager.
Since 2024, SFFP has completely eliminated single-use plastic cups at their events and requested attendees bring Silipints and Steelys from previous SFFP events for beverage service. At the 2025 Big Ponderoo, 468 festivalgoers brought existing Silipints
E-bikes on the move in Sisters
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
According to Grandview Research and others, the U.S. electric bike market size was valued at $1.98 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 15.6 percent from 2023 to 2030. Rising demand for e-bikes not only for recreational activities but also for daily commute purposes, growing environmental concern for reducing carbon emissions, and enabling older riders and noticeable health benefits are key driving factors of growth.
In addition, the growing number of imported e-bikes
along with the rising number of local manufacturers have enabled key players to reduce the market price for their products. This trend is making e-bikes affordable to local consumers thereby contributing to the growth in sales of e-bikes in the country.
Sisters is no exception. Anecdotally, it is often said that Sisters has more bikes than people, as so many in town have multiple bikes for differing uses. Given the availability of so many riding options at Sisters’ doorstep –miles of paved bike paths, street friendly motorists,
County to consider dark skies measures
As part of its commitment to enhancing dark skies in the community, the Deschutes County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 10, to consider proposed amendments to county outdoor lighting regulations.
The Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners have expressed support for amending the county outdoor lighting ordinance. After receiving feedback from two panels convened on the topic, Community Development
SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR
BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS
Al -Anon
Mon., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 541- 610-73 83
Alcoholics Anonymous
Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,G entlemen’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Thursday, noon, Sober Sisters Women’s meet ing, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
Thursday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transf iguration • Fr iday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 541- 54 8- 04 40
Saturday, 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transf iguration
Central Oregon Fly Tyer s Guild
For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelef ly@msn.c om Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@c otamtb.c om for info
Ci tizens4Communit y Communit y Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of ever y mont h, 10 to 11:3 0 a.m. Visit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for location
Council on Aging of Central Oregon Senior Lunch In -person communit y dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Grab -and -go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs. 12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters Communit y Church 541- 48 0-18 43
East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September-June), Stitchin’
Post All are welc ome. 541- 549- 60 61
Go Fi sh Fishing Group 3rd Monday 7 p.m., Sisters Communit y Church 541-771-2211
Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s)
2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Sisters Communit y Church Materials provided 541- 40 8- 8505
Hero Quilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 541- 668 -1755
Living Well With Dementia Sister s Care Partner Suppor t Group. 2nd & 4th Weds 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Librar y Communit y Room. 541- 58 8- 05 47
Mili tary Parent s of Sister s Meetings are held quarterly; please call 541-38 8- 9013
Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:3 0 a.m., Takoda’s Rest aurant. 541- 549- 6469
Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4t h Saturday, 10 a.m., meet ing by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158
Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church 541- 549- 6157
Sisters Area Woodworker s First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 541-231-18 97
Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:3 0 p.m. at Sisters Communit y Church Email sister sbridge2021@gmail.com.
Sisters Caregi ver Support Group 3rd Wednesday., 10:3 0 a.m., Sisters Episcopal Church. 503- 616- 8712
Sisters Cribbage Club Meets 11 a.m. ever y Wed. at SPRD 50 9- 947- 5744
Sisters Garden Club For mont hly meetings visit: SistersGardenClu b.com.
Sisters Habitat for Humani ty Board of Director s 4t h Tuesday, 4:30 p.m. Location information: 541- 549-1193
Sisters Kiwani s 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:3 0 a.m. to 1 p.m., at SPRD in Sisters. 541- 632- 3663
Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sister s Elementary School Commons. 917-219- 8298
Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon, Aspen Lakes. 541-76 0- 5645
Sisters Veterans no -host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant. All veterans welc ome, 541-241- 6563
Sisters Trails Alliance Board Meetings take place ever y other month, 5 p.m. In -person or zoom. Cont act: info@sisterstrails.org
Three Sister s Irrigation District Board of Director s Meets 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSID Of fice 541- 903- 4050
Three Sister s Lions Club 2nd Thursday 6:30 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 541- 419-1279
VF W Post 8138 and American Legion Po st 86 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., Pine Meadow Village Clubhouse, 59 6 W Jefferson Ave. 541-241- 6563
SCHOOLS
Black Bu tt e School
Board of Director s 2nd Tuesday, 9 a.m. Black Butte School. 541- 59 5- 6203
Sisters School District Board of Directors One Wednesday mont hly, Sisters School District Administration Building. See schedule at www.ssd 6. org. 541- 549- 8521 x5 002.
staff have proposed changes to the ordinance that address public concerns about light pollution. The proposed amendments include:
• Simplifying the code to support responsible lighting practices.
• Updating terminology to better reflect current lighting fixtures.
• Utilizing Dark Sky International’s guiding principles which offer best practices for responsible lighting.
CITY & PARKS
Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall 541- 549- 6022
Sisters Park & Recreation District
Board of Director s 2nd & 4t h Tues., 4 p.m., Coff ield Center 541- 549-20 91
Sisters Planning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall 541- 549- 6022
FIRE & POLICE
Black Bu tt e Ranch Po lice Dept Board of Director s Meets mont hly. 541- 59 5-2191 for time & date
Black Bu tt e Ranch RFPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BB R Fire Station. 541- 59 5-2288 Cloverdale RFPD
Board of Director s 3rd Wed. 5:30 p.m., 6743 3 Cloverdale Rd. 541- 54 8- 4815 cloverdalefire.c om
Sister s- Camp Sherman RFPD
Board of Director s 3rd Tuesday, 5 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 541- 549- 0771
Sister s- Camp Sherman RFPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 541- 549- 0771
PHOTO BY ROB KERR
SFF
Thriving Sisters business expands
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
Sisters Meat and Smokehouse has been in business since 2016 — and in that relatively short timespan it has become a thriving cornerstone of Sisters’ business community.
The artisanal butcher shop and eatery has just expanded, opening a mercantile in the log building next door to its Spruce Street location. The mercantile offers an array of products to support the outdoor cooking lifestyle — from spices and rubs to grilling aprons and cookbooks. There is also a selection of wine, and some seating for folks enjoying a Smokehouse lunch.
The fact that they’re offering lunch reflects a critical element in the business’ success. When the store opened, co-founders Jeff Johnson and Brody Waller envisioned serving sandwiches as a minor ancillary to commerce at the meat counter. It became immediately apparent that customers loved the sandwiches — and the demand exceeded capacity.
“We envisioned it as a much smaller part of our business than it is,” Johnson told The Nugget . “We struggled with it being such a big part of the business.”
So, the crew pivoted immediately and created the capacity to meet the demand.
“You’d better pay attention to what’s working and what
isn’t and make adjustments,” Johnson said.
That means constantly assessing the business and changing products according to customer desires.
Waller said there have been several surprises in addition to the success of lunch service: the popularity of their marinated tri-tip and their selection of smoked cheese.
On a recent visit, a customer bypassed the meats and proclaimed, “I’m here for the cheese!”
Waller says that the staff meets every week to make assessments and adjustments.
From the beginning, Waller and Johnson “had a very clear vision of what it needed to be,” Johnson said. They wanted to create an “essential business,” offering stable hours, high-quality products, and strong customer service.
While they appreciate the enthusiasm of visitors — and Sisters Meat and Smokehouse has become a destination for many tourists — the founders knew that they would depend on a reliable, local customer base.
“When we started, that was a very intentional thing,” Johnson said. “We didn’t think it would be wise to start a business that was focused on tourists.”
Waller said that keys to success are nurturing the internal culture of the business and having a genuine
high-quality products, sourced locally whenever possible.
“One thing that makes us unique is that we make everything here,” Johnson said.
Johnson praises what he describes as a “robust business community” in Sisters. He has very strong views on how businesses can succeed here.
“I like doing what people need, not what people want,” he said. “I think it’s more durable.”
Sisters businesses can’t compete on price — and shouldn’t try, he believes.
“I don’t think you can win at the low-price game,” he said.
Offer a high-quality product that people know is high quality.
“People ought to know the difference,” he said. “You can win at the worth-it game.”
Waller cited Sisters Meat & Smokehouse’s hamburger meat. It’s different from the tube grind you might find in many stores.
“We use whole muscle meat,” he said. “We grind our meat every day.”
“We buy meat specifically for that grind,” Johnson said.
The result is ground beef that is safer and better than the general run. People are willing to seek it out.
In addition to the mercantile expansion, Sisters Meat and Smokehouse has an additional location in
Redmond — a different market from Sisters, yet equally successful.
Johnson said that “nothing beats word of mouth” for marketing, and that small businesses “can’t play the digital marketing game at scale.”
Waller and Johnson’s approach and values have manifestly proved successful and serve as an example of how a small business can thrive in Sisters with a local focus and products that folks here just can’t seem to do without.
Sisters Meat and Smokehouse is located at 110 S. Spruce St.
Brody Waller and Jeff Johnson, co-founders of Sisters Meat and Smokehouse, attribute its success to focusing on its local customer base and a high-quality product.
PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS
By Edie Jones Columnist
As we move past Fourth of July celebrations, with kids out of classrooms for the summer, many parents will begin to recognize that the keeping of young minds engaged falls to them.
What needs to be happening during this two-month recess from formal learning? Of course, lots of robust outdoor play as that’s important for any good recess. In addition to their physical needs, there are those young minds, still growing and developing. What can parents and caregivers do to ensure new scholars don’t slide backwards?
Sliding backward is often most evident in reading skills, especially for those who are just learning to read. We usually think learning to read begins when a child can recite the alphabet and understand that putting letters together in certain patterns forms words. True, this is an important milestone,
however, learning to read actually starts much earlier.
When parents read to their children and discuss what is happening in the story, the listeners learn to equate the words they hear come from a page or a book, even as early as the first year of life. Continuing this practice gives assurance that the summer slide will be far less severe.
Tips that come from the Smart Reading program to keep the summer slide away begin with “take advantage of your library.” Make sure your kids have their own library card (if it is allowed) and help them recognize it as an important document that needs to be cherished and carefully guarded. Check out books, go to story time, and see if they have summer reading challenges. Prizes are always an important incen tive for kids.
Set goals that they can reach, yet still be stretched by them. Perhaps a minimum number to read per week, month, or the summer, with motivating awards at the end. Depending on your child’s age, this could be choosing to purchase a book of their own or an amount of money they will earn to start their own library.
to build a larger vocabulary and, besides, it’s a lot of fun. Encourage them to read signs and billboards to you; cereal boxes, and advertisements with discussion about the purpose of the ad.
Set a good example. Make sure they see you reading; books, magazines, letters. It doesn’t matter what. Take their books with you to have on hand while you wait for something to happen.
When you’re in the middle of a story that goes on for several days, take advantage of time in the car. While you are driving, ask questions about the plot, what they think will happen next, or suggest they make up their own ending to the story.
When in a group setting,
like around the dinner table, start a pro gressive story. When you say the word “and,” the person next to you (no matter how young) says what happens next. When they say “and,” their turn ends and it moves to the next in line.
Don’t forget to have them write — postcards, notes, journals, author a story, poetry. This is not a time to correct for grammar and spelling (although sometime during the summer needs to be devoted to those skills). It’s just a time to write, to be creative, to put that growing mind to work.
Engage them, ask questions, encourage them, and applaud them when any reading happens. Then, hopefully, the only slide they will be on this summer will be the one at the playground.
With your child’s help, devise a reading adventure. Learn everything possible about the place you are going for your vacation. Or, find a new author and read everything they’ve written.
Let your kids read for fun, with no pressure to finish a book. Reading is reading, and the more they do it the better.
Play rhyming games. This is one of the best ways
Songwriters to teach and perform in Sisters
Longtime friends and frequent collaborators, Avery Hill and Jaspar Lepak bring their PNW Wonderland Tour to Sisters on Monday, July 28, for a day of music, creativity, and connection. They begin with an afternoon songwriting workshop, “The Intersection of Women and Nature in Songwriting,” 2 to 4 p.m. in a private residence, followed by an intimate evening Bookstore House Concert at 7 p.m. at Paulina Springs Books, located at 252 W. Hood Ave.
The afternoon workshop explores the deep links between women’s experiences and the natural world, then guides participants through prompts and writing exercises to help unlock their own voice and vision. Both experienced songwriters and those just starting out will have the opportunity to reflect, create, and connect through music. While the workshop centers women’s voices, all genders are welcome to attend. Register at bit.ly/ hill-lepak-workshop-sisters.
In the evening, the two songwriters will each perform a heartfelt set of original folk music in the welcoming setting of Paulina
Springs Books. Their songs rooted in the landscapes of their lives and the natural world—invite reflection, connection, and honest expression. With poetic fire and melodic grace, Hill and Lepak craft songs that stir the soul and linger long after the final note. Full show details are available at www. paulinaspringsbooks.com/ events/.
Jaspar Lepak (www.jaspar lepak.com) crafts feminist folk songs that are poetic, resonant, and “always evocative” (Mostly Minnesota). Her 2024 release “So Strong” — inspired by love, loss, motherhood, and the fight for reproductive justice — debuted at No. 6 on the Folk Radio Chart. With a voice often compared to Kate Wolf and Nanci Griffith, her music is bravely honest, tender, and sometimes playfully defiant.
Avery Hill (see www. averyhill.studio) is a singersongwriter, storyteller, and teaching artist known for her thoughtful lyrics, intricate melodies, and warm, engaging presence. Her 2024 album “The One Who Remembers” explores memory as a portal through time—linking past, present, and future.
Local author promotes wellness
Sisters author, nurse, and health educator Cindy Scharkey will present her book, “Permission For Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden” at Paulina Springs Books on Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Scharkey will offer a short reading, a Q&A session, and a fun environment to explore, discuss, and learn about women’s sexuality.
Scharkey, RN, BSN, has been consistently exposed to the taboo and silence surrounding women’s sexuality over nearly four decades in healthcare as a Certified Childbirth Educator, OB/ GYN nurse, and speaker. She is passionate about providing women with the education and self-confidence they need to find freedom on their own sexual wellness journey. As a podcast host and producer, workshop facilitator and speaker, she aims to open the door to healthy conversations about expressing, experiencing, and enjoying sexuality.
aimed at equipping women with knowledge and confidence in their sex lives. This guided exploration goes deep into the core questions and education women must consider to embrace and enjoy
their sexuality for themselves.
Learn more about Scharkey and her work at www.cindy scharkey.com.
Paulina Springs Books is located at 252 W. Hood Ave.
“Permission For
Sisters author, nurse, and health educator Cindy Scharkey.
PHOTO PROVIDED
wonder “how is this helping our community?”
I do not know if going through each item specifically is helpful but maybe some comparison and contrast may offer a different view to be pondered.
I think I may safely say that this is a time of worry, insecurity, and fear concerning what is happening in the USA.
To belittle all the challenges we are facing in supporting Democracy to a level of sarcastic “humor” does not promote open dialogue nor respect toward our neighbors and other citizens in Sisters.
Interesting you use the term “hoi polloi.” Have not heard that term since watching old movies from decades ago. It is often used in a derogatory manner in relation to the common people.
I am of the opinion that we should strive to understand the Constitution better and understand how the three branches of government are designed to work and how the laws are written to support these goals.
At that time I believe we will be able to have rational discussions in a caring , respectful manner. It would be helpful to work toward solutions with understanding and maybe a bit of kindness.
I like to believe that all or at least most people care about their children, care about their communities, care about the planet on which we all live.
I believe most people do work with diligence and goals toward helping others. Is it so hard to be respectful and try to be kind? Are we able to tone down the chaos and add some calm to the narrative?
Vicki Hickmann
s s s
History repeating
To the Editor:
I wrote a letter to the editor awhile back about cuts to USAID. In it I pointed out that the cuts, that Musk and Trump were responsible for, would cause hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths. I heard from people that this was not true because much of the funding was going to be restored by transferring it to the State Department.
In March, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that 83 percent of programs administered by USAID were being eliminated and not restored, in which he celebrated what he called an “overdue and historic reform.” Now a study published in the prestigious peer-reviewed medical journal The Lancet estimated that more than 14 million preventable deaths could occur by 2030, including 4.5 million deaths among children under five, because of the cuts of USAID programs. That is more than twice the number of Jews estimated killed by Nazi Germany.
How much difference is there between rounding up people to be put to death and knowingly causing millions agonizing deaths by cutting off lifesaving aid? Now in addition to this tragedy right here in the USA, as you are
reading this, ICE is setting up detention centers throughout the country. I’m sure you heard the term for one of them “Alligator Alcatraz.” Presently ICE has over 59,000 individuals in custody with a goal of rounding up, arresting, and detaining upwards of 3,000 a day. It seems the intent of this administration is to steadily march toward trying to emulate some of history’s most cruel and evil regimes, yet somehow a substantial segment of people in this country support this. The common saying about history repeating itself has never seemed more appropriate.
Bruce Hess
s s s
Roundabout art
To the Editor:
We have the world’s greatest master carver of wood in Sisters Country. There should be no question as to what art to place at the Locust St. Roundabout:
Example: Think Redmond Airport’s amazing carving of eagles cast in bronze (or ?) by Chester Armstrong. Symbolic not only of Sisters but our country and nature.
Kathy L. Miller
s s s
Immigration
To the Editor:
I’m responding to part of a column from a few issues back that advocated putting our own “native-born” young folks to work in factories, farms, nursing homes, childcare, construction, etc. In other words, the lowerpaid, and often low-to-non-existent-benefits jobs that immigrants from all countries have traditionally taken.
I believe we need those immigrants and are grateful to the people who do those necessary jobs, whether they were born here or came here from elsewhere. It’s a fantasy to think we have the number of young people born here to take those jobs. A lot of us, whose families have been here for several generations, can recall our forbears who came here and worked hard and made a life for themselves and their children. In my own family I see the very next generation (for the most part) get more education, better-paid trades and careers, and move on up. It’s the way of the world.
Another thought, looking at the longerterm future: With declining birth rates worldwide our labor force is going to be very much stretched in the future. I’ve read of a study (Brookings Institute 2023) that says that without immigration we would lose up to a third of our population by 2100. And that population will be older. We already have more people over 65 than children in 11 states. Yikes!
We need immigrants who are educated and have special skills as well. Unless AI can do everything that we can do, and really soon. Let’s welcome immigrants and insist on a strong and well-run immigration policy and enforcement. Let’s remember our past and look ahead!
Laura West
Cookies for Furry Friends…
Seven-year-old Eve Sopke presented Furry Friends Foundation with $132 she made selling cookies at the High Desert Corvette Club/ Lithia Chevrolet car show last month. Eve and her grandmother Sandi Burgess, spent the greater part of a week making the cookies, which were well-received by guests at the car show. Eve decided that she had enough toys and wanted to help others with her earnings. She has two dogs and a cat, so she thought it appropriate to help others with their animals. For information about Furry Friends Foundation’s pet food bank and other services, visit www.furryfriendsfoundation.org.
PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS
Governor orders ban on school cellphone use
By Alex Baumhardt Oregon Capital Chronicle
By the middle of the upcoming school year, Oregon students will not be allowed to use their cellphones in school.
Governor Tina Kotek on Wednesday, July 2, issued an executive order to Oregon’s 197 school districts, requiring they adopt a policy for banning student cellphone use by October 31. Those policies must be fully implemented by January 1, 2026, the order reads.
The move follows the Legislature’s failure to pass a similar, bipartisan bill — House Bill 2251 — during the recent legislative session.
That bill would have, with some exceptions, required districts to ban cellphones for all grades, and enforce penalties on students who violate cellphone policies. But it failed to clear a key Senate committee vote. It faced opposition from powerful school board and school administrator groups, which expressed concerns
See CELLPHONES on page 14
New agency to fast-track home construction
By Alex Baumhardt Oregon Capital Chronicle
The “doors are open” on a new state office charged with meeting Governor Tina Kotek’s goal of getting 36,000 new homes built in Oregon each year.
Kotek announced on Tuesday, July 1, the official launch of the Housing Accountability and Production Office, or HAPO.
Lawmakers laid the groundwork for the agency in 2024 when they passed Senate Bill 1537, meant to give cities more leeway to add land for housing to their urban growth boundaries — the state-approved line around a city that dictates where and how it can expand.
In a news release, Kotek said agency staff would act as a liaison between developers, local governments, and state agencies to find and
streamline funding. It must provide to the Legislature by September 2026 research and policy options to boost housing and housing affordability statewide. She said the office will also be enforcing building laws and codes, investigating complaints of noncompliance in housing production, and will create a “more predictable regulatory environment for builders.”
She called the lack of housing in parts of Oregon, and many cities across the U.S., a “generational crisis.”
“I believe that we can get this done. And, it is still a monumental task,” she said in the news release.
It’s all aimed at addressing a housing shortage caused by years of underbuilding that led to more than half of Oregon tenants spending more than they can afford on rent, median home prices topping $500,000 statewide, and
more than 20,000 Oregonians living in tents, cars, or homeless shelters.
Construction on houses, apartments, and multifamily buildings in Oregon rose in the 1970s then plunged in the 1980s and never recovered, according to the Seattlebased, nonprofit research and policy organization Sightline Institute. By the 2010s, the share of new homes built in Oregon that were in apartments and multifamily buildings hit its lowest average in 60 years and homebuilding never fully recovered.
Kotek set a goal of building 36,000 homes per year when she ran for governor in 2022, but the state is still far from reaching that goal. Local governments in Oregon issued just fewer than 17,700 building permits in 2023, according to a federal database. They’re further behind this year — by September,
builders had pulled just more than 10,800 permits.
The Housing Accountability and Production Office will be a joint office of the state Department of Land Conservation and Development, and the state Building Codes Division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. It will be run by longtime affordable housing leader Joel Madsen and longtime construction industry tradesman Tony Rocco.
“We have the tools to support collaboration on the foundational goal we all share of building more safe, efficient, and cost-effective housing for all Oregonians,” Rocco said in the news release.
Sisters Library Children’s Museum of Central Oregon Pop Up Exhibits. Wednesday, July 9, 1-2 p.m. Check out some favorite exhibits during this open playtime. E xperiment, create, collaborate, and explore! For children ages 0 -11, all must be accompanied by a caregiver In the Communit y Room.
Accordionista Robin Werdal. Enjoy polkas, waltzes , folk songs , and more -learn about accordions.
Tuesday, July 15, 3-4:0 0 p.m.
Bookends: e Bad Guys
Wednesday, July 16 , 1-2p.m.
Celebrate the baddest good guys in town! Based on e Bad Guys graphic novel series by Aaron Blabey, dive into the hilarious world of Mr. Wolf, Mr. Shark, Mr. Snake, and Mr. Piranha as they tr y to become heroes. Sneaky games and missions, cool craf ts , and a dramatic Bad Guys read-aloud . is program is for children grades 3rd - 6th.
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
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 w ww.Eventbrite. com , Camp Polk Cemeter y Tour, leave phone number in case of cancellation, ursdays , July 17, August 21, 10:30 a .m. Free.
A NNOUNCEMENT S
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 quar terly 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: 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 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 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 Program 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://w ww ci.sisters .or.us/administration/ page/community-grants. For information contact Rebecca Green at 541-323-520 6 or recorder@ci.sisters.or.us.
Monthly Songwriters’ Sharing Circle
Be in a creative community and be inspired while sharing songs , being a great listener, and providing feedback. Second Sunday of the month, 6-8 p.m., in the Sisters Folk Festival “JA M Studio” upstairs in the Sisters Art Work s building, 20 4 W. Adams Ave. Free. Info: 541-977-8494, jessaneene@msn.com
Sisters Careg iver Support
A f acilitated support group for caregivers of those with chronic or life-shor tening diseases meets 10 :30 to 11:30 a .m. on the third Wednesday of ever y month at Sisters Episcopal Church of e Transfiguration, 121 Brook s Camp Rd . For more information, please call 503-616 -8712.
Monthly Songwriters’ Sharing Circle
Be in a creative community and be inspired while sharing songs , being a great listener, and providing feedback. Second Sunday of the month, 6 -8 p.m., in the Sisters Folk Festival “JA M Studio” upstairs in the Sisters Art Works building , 20 4 W. Adams Ave. Free. Info: 541-977-8494, jessaneene@msn.com
Sisters Garden Journal
Sisters Garden Club has Garden Journals that are availabl e for $15 at Paulina Springs Books , e Gallimauf ry, and Metamorphosis Day Spa here in Sisters. e multiyear journal includes pages for notes on weather, monthly garden activities, plant details , and more. Sale s support the Garden Club and other local nonprofits. Get your copy now. ey make great gif ts . Please c all 971-246040 4 to ask questions and find more information
Sisters French Club
For people interested in French culture and lansguage, 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.
Your Announcement Here
Schools , churches , nonprofit, recreational and community groups: this is your page to announce your free gatherings and event s! Regularly occur ring Sisters Countr y meetings are listed on the Sisters Area Meeting Calendar on page 3 and special event s or featured meeting s can be listed on this page. All submissions are subject to editing and run only as space allows . Email nug get@ nug getnews.com or drop o at 442 E . Main Ave. Your text must include a “ for more information” phone number. Deadline is 5 p.m . on Fridays
Save the Rubberbands
Business owners: Are you the recipient of a bundle of Nug gets each week? ose f at rubberbands are highly valued by e Nug geteers that bundle your papers each week . If you can save them, we’d love to use them again. Questions? Call 541549-9941
Welcome, Quilters! Have an ama zing weekend in Sisters Enjoy the quilts , shopping, dining , and community
Free Pet Food Budget tight this month, but you still need pet food for your dog or cat? Call the Furr y Friends pet food bank at 541-797-4 023 to schedule your pickup. Pickups available ursdays , beginning at 12:30 p.m . Located at 412 E . Main Ave Ste. 4, behind e Nug get
NAL A
is sweet & goof y one year old girl came to HSCO as a stray. Her past is a mystery, but she’s probably a mix of Retriever, L abrador/ Terrier, & Pit Bull. She will thrive with a loving , patient adopter. She’s cautious but f riendly with other dogs & enjoys a game of chase. Be ready to train & help her learn. Come meet Nala if you think she might be the per fect addition to your family! S
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
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.
Tuesday-Friday Mass Wellhouse Churc h 442 Trinit y Way • 541-549-4184 ht tps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com 10 a .m. Sunday Worship
POLICY: Nonprofits, schools , churches , birth, engagement, wedding , and anniversar y notices may run at no charge. Business items do not run on this page. All
allows . Email nugget@nuggetnews.com or drop
Hardtails to kick off music season
Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill has established a Sisters summertime tradition of bringing topnotch tribute bands to play in “The Yard” at the corner of Larch Street and Main Avenue.
The season will kick off on Saturday, July 26, with a first-time-in-Sisters performance by Roll On, a band that recreates the look and sound of the legendary 1980s-’90s country band Alabama.
Roll On is a full production tribute to the most awarded band in country music history, Alabama, featuring lead vocalist/guitarist Brian Pelky, vocalist/bassist Jerry Hatcher, vocalist/lead guitarist Doug Reeder, and drummer Jerod Moore. They deliver an authentic tribute to Alabama, performing over two decades of No. 1 hits such as “Mountain Music,” “Tennessee River,” “Love In the First Degree,” “Roll On,” “Feels So Right,” “Take Me Down,” “I’m In A Hurry,” and many more.
Founded in Portland in 2020, Roll On features veteran Pacific Northwest musicians, all with a passion to deliver the authentic look and sound of Alabama.
The series continues through the summer, with One Way Out paying tribute to the Allman Brothers on August 9, followed by the Rolling Tones tribute to The Rolling Stones on August 16.
Major Dudes will recreate the sound of Steely Dan, and the season will close out with the powerhouse Valhalla tribute to Led Zeppelin.
The shows reliably sell out; early ticket purchase is recommended. Visit https://bendticket. com/organizations/ hardtails-bar-grill.
SISTERS-AREA Events & Enter tainment
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
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
Makin’ It Local Artist Reception: Kathy Deggendorfer the 2025 Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show poster artist. See her new fine art prints. 3–5:30 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. 50th 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
Paulina Springs Books Knitting Circle Bring your own project and supplies. This is not a workshop, but there are experienced knitters in the group who are happy to help those just starting out. (Second Saturday.) Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show
5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free Info: 541-549-2471
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.
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.
Sisters Depot Live Music: Open Mic Music lovers can enjoy a variety of local talent, 6 to 8 p.m. Sign ups start at 5 :30 Upstairs at "Frankie's." Info: sistersdepot.com/our-events.
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. A country dance band providing music in the style of Little Big Town. No cover. Info: hardtailsoregon.com/events.
Sisters Art Works "Changing Futures" Fundraiser Event for Circle of Friends with live music by Kristi Kensey Band, live and silent auction, and food by Luckey's Woodsman. 6:30 p.m. Tickets and info: info@circleoffriendsoregon.org.
Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free Info: 541-549-2471
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.
Sisters Saloon Live Music: Bill Keale
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: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com. Paulina Springs Books Drawings: A Creativity Playshop with Krayna Castelbaum. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
WEDNESDAY • JULY 23
Friends & Vine Wine Tasting: Justin Vineyards 4 to 6 p.m. Five wines poured by Justin! $15. Reservations: 541-965-3284
The Barn Live Music: Spencer Marlyn 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 24
Luckey's Woodsman Trivia: Megan's Terrific Trivia 5:30 p.m. Info: luckeyswoodsman.com.
Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Olivia Harms 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
The Barn Live Music: Reb and the Good News 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.
JULY 24 — AUGUST 3
Caldera Theater, Bend Musical: “Voiceless: A Musical" by Anne Fenn, music and lyrics by Deena Kamm. Production is a community collaboration. Tickets & info: www.voicelessamusical.com.
FRIDAY • JULY 25
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $15. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Smoke Drifters 5-7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471
Sisters High School Soccer Field Dark Sky Party 9 to 11 p.m. Celebrate Sisters becoming an International Dark Sky Community! You'll hear an ancient star story locate notable stars, constellations, planets, the moon, and other astronomical objects. Stay after the tour to gaze through telescopes in deep space provided by Sisters Astronomy Club volunteers. ThankstoagrantfromCitizens4Community,thiseventisfree! Reserve your free ticket here: starshine-theater.com/dark-sky-party.
Roll On will kick off Hardtails’ music season.
Celebrating the 4th of July...
Sisters church offers free summer concerts
Sisters Community Church is hosting its fifth annual summer concert series, starting with Jeff Miller and the Congregation on Sunday, July 13, at 6 p.m. There is no admission cost.
The purpose of the concerts is two-fold. First, to invite all people from the community to gather in a welcoming, hospitable, friendly, and fun outdoor environment to meet people, to reunite with those they’ve not seen for some time, and to enjoy good music with community.
The second reason is to provide a forum to support and create awareness of local nonprofits who have missions focused on serving those in need. In the past,
those who’ve attended concerts have assisted youth, young mothers, veterans, the unhoused, those who fight human trafficking, and others.
Jeff Miller and the Congregation delivers unprecedented vocal harmonies combined with the musical talents of Jeff Miller, Russ Skelton, Bethany Houts, Jeremey Eggert, and Ray Shelley. The group melds classic rock, American folk, and original music.
The dates of the other concerts in the series are Sundays, August 17 (Station Camp), and September 7 (Refuge). All concerts are at 6 p.m. and held outdoors on the lawn looking out on the Three Sisters mountains.
Responding to complaints in forest challenging
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Heated encounters between campers and longterm forest-dwellers in Sisters Country are drawing the attention of citizens and authorities. The Nugget received a communication recently from a camper describing a negative encounter — and frustration with the response:
“You really should call your local Sheriff’s department and ask about what they told us when we called 911 today about the homeless guy living out in the National Forest illegally in his RV off Harrington Loop Rd. He ran three other couples out of the forest yesterday calling them [sexual and racial epithets] and how this was his forest and we didn’t belong here.
“Today he did the same to us and when I stood my ground he threatened to ‘get his gun’ and shoot us and our dogs if we did not leave. We called 911 and they said they would send someone out. They then called back and said they would not send anyone out because they knew who he was and he was mentally ill and did not want to escalate the situation
with him and possibly end up shooting him. They said they did not know if he is armed and that we should just leave to diffuse (sic) the situation.”
The Nugget asked Lt. Chad Davis of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office about the matter.
“We make decisions on our response based upon each call for service,” he told The Nugget. “In this call we made contact with the reporting party and determined no crime had occurred and encouraged the camper to re-locate to a different area, however the camper refused to move. When we have documented history with citizens that have mental health issues where contacting them can turn violent, we make a risk-versus-reward decision on whether contacting that person is going to help or hurt the situation.
“We know that initiating contact with some individuals in crisis has a high likelihood of force being used, therefore we thoughtfully decide whether our in-person contact with that individual is truly necessary. In this case, the subject had returned to their camp and there was no in-progress emergency which
We know that initiating contact with some individuals in crisis has a high likelihood of force being used, therefore we thoughtfully decide whether our in-person contact with that individual is truly necessary.
— Lt. Chad Davis
necessitated an in-person response.
“A deputy made phone contact with the subject and there appeared to be an issue between the reporting party and the transient, which resulted in one call for service. We referred this to Deschutes County Mental Health crisis response team to reach out to the individual to make phone contact them.” It does not seem that such encounters are increasing (see related story, page 1), but they were increasingly gaining the attention of local citizens concerned about security in the forest.
Marti Stuker, a U.S. Navy nurse, and Rosemary Norton, a Navy meteorologist tech, marked the 4th of July with the flag ceremony at Black Butte Ranch.
PHOTO PROVIDED
in a running commentary document, and have been shared with District Ranger Ian Reid and Forest Service law enforcement officers.
Schild and others from her group met with Reid and a team from the service last month and presented their findings and concerns. Reid said of the meeting: “I would characterize it as productive dialogue.”
At the core of the group’s concerns and for many others in Sisters is wildfire potentially created by illegal campers. By illegal they mean dispersed campers overstaying the 14-day camping rule.
Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, if it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted “closed to camping,” or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources.
Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. Camping limitation rules vary per district. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days.
Schild and her group and others in Sisters routinely complain to the Forest Service for not enforcing the 14-day rule and of general negligence.
Kaitlynn Webb, public affairs staff officer for the Deschutes National Forest told The Nugget , “A violation of the 14-day stay limit is an infraction and is not an arrestable offense. Our officers enforce rules and regulations within our authority across the forest.
A violation of the 14-day stay limit is an infraction and is not an arrestable offense. Our officers enforce rules and regulations within our authority across the forest.
— Kaitlynn Webb
“Addressing homelessness and houselessness in our communities is not within the purview or authority of the Forest Service, however we strive to be a good partner by coordinating with those who lead on these issues. The Deschutes National Forest has been collaborating with City and County partners to find community-driven solutions for unhoused individuals on public lands for several years.
“The Forest is focused on our priority work including forest restoration, fuels reduction, improving wildlife habitat, and providing recreation opportunities.”
Webb said that The Nugget must make a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request to get more details on the depth of law enforcement activity in the Sisters Ranger District.
Since the beginning of
the Trump administration, the Forest Service, a unit of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, under the management of its Secretary Brooke Rollins, access by media has been significantly curtailed.
Schild has filed four FOIA requests, a lengthy and often cumbersome process.
In her running commentary Schild has captured a long list of alleged incidents on District land around Sisters. Among them is a video post by a user known as jillsweet97 describing a threatening interaction with a homeless camper close to Sisters as she camped overnight. The video has been shared hundreds of times on TikTok and Instagram.
Others describe episodes of being accosted on popular Sisters trails by dispersed campers. Allegations have been made that more persons are being arrested at Ray’s Food Place. “We are not seeing any noticeable change in the call volume from the stores on the west end of town,” said Lt. Chad Davis who heads the Sisters Patrol Office.
There are frequent claims that Sisters is experiencing an uptick in the houseless displaced from camps in Bend and Redmond.
Davis says, “We have not seen an increase in the numbers of calls for service in the
forest, it has remained about the same. We have seen some of our long-term homeless population move from the Sisters area this spring. We continue to coordinate with the USFS in contacting camps and monitoring who is in our area.”
Dan Neal attended the June meeting and recounts, “FS Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) emphasizing that living in the forest is illegal, and at no point should anyone be allowed to construct, maintain, develop, or reside in the forest. They do not use the term ‘longterm campers’ because they are not camping in the forest, they are living in the forest. Camping implies recreational use.”
Neal said, “LEOs are enforcing all regulations within their jurisdictions. Long-term camping is a Class B misdemeanor (i.e., a crime punishable by fines and/or imprisonment of some specified amount).
We have not seen an increase in the numbers of calls for service in the forest, it has remained about the same.
— Lt. Chad Davis
Unfortunately, the court system is treating this as an infraction. LEOs issue citations, but the court and/or DAs are choosing to dismiss cases. For example, in 2022 over 80 citations were issued to individuals at China Hat. Over 60 were dismissed.”
He added, “Both DCSO and FS LEO are issuing citations but do not have the power to trespass individuals, they cannot force individuals to move camps. Some of this is due to jurisdiction issues (e.g., DCSO cannot enforce federal regulations on federal land) and some is due to Oregon law (e.g., individuals have certain rights in their homes, even if those homes are campers in the forest).”
Neal claims Reid refused to answer any questions with regards to current data on campsites or citations issued.
While Schild and others intend to pursue their concerns and grievances, they are not optimistic about any swift meaningful changes. Neal for his part is detailing the incidents of wildfire in hopes of getting the USFS to declare an embargo on any camping within a zone of so many miles of the Sisters WUI (Wildland Urban Interface).
In next week’s Nugget we will look at fire statistics in the forest and actual numbers of houseless residing in the woods around Sisters.
CELLPHONES: No major change expected in Sisters schools
Continued from page 9
about the state mandating policies that they felt school districts themselves should handle. Some school district leaders testified that enforcing the ban would be prohibitively expensive for them to do.
But State Rep. Lisa Reynolds, D-Beaverton, a doctor and chief sponsor of the bill that failed to pass, said in a news release that she was glad Kotek stepped in.
“By getting cellphones out of our schools, Governor Kotek is putting students first,” she said. “Every Oregon student deserves a distractionfree, harassment-free learning environment that fosters curiosity and community.”
The order technically bans all “personal electronic devices,” which includes any
Sisters schools limit cellphones
Curt Scholl, Sisters schools superintendent, told The Nugget that Governor Kotek’s executive order banning cellphone use in school will not represent a major change in policy for Sisters School District.
“We’ll follow the guidelines laid out by the Governor, but I don’t see a lot of impact,” he said.
“At Sisters elementary and middle schools, pretty much our practice was we were cellphone-free throughout the day. I won’t say we’re perfect at that — kids find a way to do things — but that was our operating procedure.”
The high school may be a bit different. Scholl said that in “most of our classrooms, the kids check their cellphone at the door.”
Since Governor Kotek’s order requires adoption of policy, the school board will likely be taking up the matter in coming months.
portable, electrically powered device capable of making and receiving calls and text messages, and that can access the internet independently from the school’s wireless network, such as a smart watch. It does not include laptops or other devices that support classroom activities.
In November, the Oregon Department of Education issued guidance to districts on limiting or ending cellphone use in schools. State law currently requires every school district to have policies about cellphones and personal electronic devices, but each district gets to set its own rules.
At least eight Oregon school districts have already either banned use in individual classes or in schools altogether, according to the state education department. Full bans have been enacted at some middle and high schools in the Lincoln County School District, Portland Public Schools, and in the Nyssa
School District. The Lake Oswego School District bans cellphones for students in all K-12 schools.
Kotek in a news release said that model policies for schools that already have prohibitions in place will be made available, and the state will offer some flexibility in implementation.
“The research is clear,” Korek said, “cellphone use can create a trifecta of consequences for our young people – mental health issues, safety in school, and distraction from learning.”
A growing body of research and teacher surveys show student cellphone use in schools is hindering more than helping the school experience.
In a May 2023 advisory, then-U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy recommended parents set limits on phone use, and in June 2024, Murthy called for health warnings on social media platforms for younger users, who
research shows are suffering from higher rates of mental health issues when spending hours on the platforms each day.
A Pew Research Center survey from October 2023 found that more than twothirds of U.S. adults favor banning cellphones during class, and almost two-thirds of high school teachers said
cellphones have become a major distraction and impediment to learning.
The order makes Oregon one of at least 19 states that have adopted statewide cellphone bans in schools. Republished under Creative Commons license
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 courtesy https://oregoncapital chronicle.com.
Partners in Health & Well-being
Sharing the stories of businesses and people who serve residents of the grea te r Sisters community
Sisters Country residents believe in the importance of mental and physical health for all ages — and what better place to maintain a positive approach than getting outside to experience the beauty of Central Oregon. Having a healthy, active lifestyle is just the tip of the iceberg. Besides our individual physical health, overall wellbeing depends on other aspects of life as well like mental, oral, ocular, environmental, educational, financial, family, and pet health.
TRAILGRAMS...
Hand Lake Loop
By Bill Bartlett Columnist
Every now and then you just want an easy day on the trail, but you don’t want to sacrifice scenic beauty. Hand Lake would be a good solution. It’s close by — 20 miles up Highway 242 (McKenzie-Santiam Scenic Byway) — with much to see along the way. It’s always fun to stop at Dee Wight Observatory, recently spiffed up.
Why go? The variety. Lava rocks, a small, pristine lake, an historic restored, three-side shelter, varying flora, and a brush with the historic McKenzie Wagon Road. In 1871 John Templeton Craig hacked and hand carved a primitive road through this area, and this slot through the Belknap lava flow was part of it. It is marked by a couple of small cairns on either side of the route. There is no sign, so keep your eyes open.
From an account by Craig Eisenbeis: “Where others repeatedly failed, he (John Craig) finally succeeded in 1872. As president of The McKenzie Salt Springs and Deschutes Wagon Road Company, he completed a road over what is now McKenzie Pass. His historic road connected the Eugene area with what is now Sisters Country. The route he chose across this lava field was several hundred feet lower in elevation than Scott’s route.”
Hand Lake forms a seasonally fluctuating pool at the end of a tongue of a lava flow that emanated from the South Belknap volcano
about 3,000 years ago. This loop, mostly level, is suitable for young children and dogs and offers some picnic opportunities.
Moreover, the trail is lightly used and going midweek you are unlikely to see another human.
When to go? After the snow melt and before the first snowfall of autumn.
What to expect? The 2.9 mile lollipop loop has a gentle elevation gain of only 190 feet topping out at 4,845 feet. It can be done in under two hours, or meander and absorb the history. You’ll find John Craig’s pile of lava rocks, a good number of birds, and depending on the month a fair range of moths and butterflies.
• Always interesting lava flow.
• The shelter, of course. Some burn scars, hemlock, noble firs, pinemat, manzanita, sulfur buckwheat and wild penstemon.
• The views! In addition to the Three Sisters, there are excellent portraits of Mt. Washington and Belknap Crater.
There may be mosquitoes in early to mid-June. There are no toilets.
Getting there: Drive 20.3 miles west on Highway 242 (about 39 minutes) directly to the trailhead.
What you’ll need
The hike is inside the Mt. Washington Wilderness, so you will need a self-issued day permit obtainable at the trailhead kiosk. Of course, sunscreen and a hat in the summer, and water. Insect repellent just in case.
QUILT SHOW: Hood
Avenue will be closed to vehicles for event
Continued from page 1
Jean recalled.
The display garnered some attention, and it made for a fun summer day in a tiny town.
“Then I thought, ‘well, maybe I should do it again,’” Wells said.
In that second year, there were 50 quilts on display on downtown Sisters storefronts — and a major event was on a roll.
That roll has continued for 50 years.
“It was sharing what you liked to do,” Wells said, “about being able to share without judging.”
That ethos continues to this day.
SOQS Executive Director Dawn Boyd affirmed the foundational ethos of the show.
“It’s not juried, so we celebrate every level of quilter,” she said.
The decades-long celebration has evolved organically; organizers — almost all volunteers — have avoided commercialization and emphasized maintaining a hometown feel.
Boyd notes that the show will always be free — but it is not free to produce. SOQS welcomes business sponsorship and community grants, and has an active cadre of “Friends of the Show” donors. Information on supporting SOQS may be found at www. soqs.org/donations.
“I have had every surgery and health problem known to man. I have been coming to the Sisters Athletic Club for 12 years and I truly believe it’s the reason I am still here. I appreciate the club and the friendliness of everyone.”
— Jerry Schoof
Sisters celebrates Independence Day
Photos by Jarod Gatley & Jim Cornelius
Mother Nature kicked off the Independence Day fireworks a little early, with an impressive display of lighting on the evening of July 3. The thunderstorm brought a bit of rain, but that didn’t dampen any spirits on July 4, as the Sisters community gathered for the Citizens4Community/Sisters Rotarysponsored Sisters 4th Fest, which kicked off with a 5k run and wrapped up with a pie-eating contest on July 4. In between, the event was packed with familyoriented hometown 4th of July fun.
Teaching children to fly fish
Go Fish Group fly-fishing club in Sisters gathered on Saturday, June 7, to teach 15 children, ages 9–14, how to fly fish. Parents were also invited to attend. The event was made possible by a grant from the Oregon Council of Fly Fishing International.
The fly-fishing club hopes the children will learn to enjoy the sport and art of fly fishing in the great outdoors for their entire life.
The morning session was held at Sisters Community Church. First the group gathered to learn about the equipment and tools that are used, then they divided into groups of three to learn about trout, knots, insects, fly tying, and casting.
After lunch everyone
went to the Children’s Pond at Camp Sherman where most successfully caught a trout and learned how to release it unharmed.
The grant made it possible for each youth to receive the book, “Trout and the Insects,” a fly box of flies, a notebook with all the information that was covered, and a complete fly rod and reel set.
It was an exceptional day for everyone, including many of the club members who taught the lessons.
Anyone interested in learning fly fishing can come to the regular meeting of the club on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, located at 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy., Sisters.
CITY: Sisters has many infrastructure projects in the offing
Continued from page 1
manages public works as citizens generally understand it — supervising work crews, maintaining and fixing things. The day to day of keeping systems humming.
Bertagna will focus on the longer term, big-cost projects mostly in three buckets: Waste water (sewers); water; and streets. Estimates for the three are $9 million, $13-$14 million, and $3.5 million, respectively.
A major piece of wastewater management is the west side pump station. Due to the collection system growth on the west side of the city, a new regional pump station is needed to divert the west side flows away from the Rope Street station. The project includes a complete triplex station, back-up generator, and a new 4,500-foot pressure main.
The new pump station will decrease operation and maintenance costs, decrease the difficulty with pump maintenance, and improve reliability using smaller pump sizes associated with a triplex system. This project will provide additional capacity and eliminate the need to enlarge the Rope Street station.
Then there’s the expansion of the reservoir and
improving the Lazy Z Ranch wastewater treatment scheme. The vision calls for an eventual 16-acre wetland, a forested area with ponds and streams, a viewpoint, and two to three miles of trails. That carries a price tag of almost $5 million.
A 45-acre wetlands version is projected to cost $6.5 million.
Bertagna thrives in the complex world of infrastructure, the vast majority underground and out of sight. The Wastewater Facilities plan alone is 351 pages.
Chief among street projects is the Adams Avenue Streetscape Design Project encompassing an area located within the Downtown Commercial District along the Adams Avenue 80-foot wide rightof-way from Cedar Street to Pine Street as well as sections of the side streets between Main and Adams Avenue. This corridor would share existing design elements of improved right-ofway within the downtown core with a focus on multimodal design and connectivity, business/residential access, and landscaping.
City Manager Jordan Wheeler said these changes were borne out of city goal setting and he believes the separation of tasks and focus improves “our ability to spend taxpayer dollars more effectively” and “provide better oversight.”
He also expressed
pleasure in “continuing our history of growing our own talent.”
Bertagna with 20 years of total service, 14 in management, expects to work for several more years. Dumanch said he was “excited to grow and serve the city” as it looks at population projections of 7,000.
It is this growth and the discussion of possibly increasing the city’s limits — the UGB (Urban Growth Boundary) that is a hot topic among citizens.
“During the FY 24/25 Budget process, we proposed a Capital projects manager position that was approved but then decided to wait to make the transition until the start of this fiscal year,” Wheeler said. “We will recruit to backfill the Public Works Project Coordinator position.”
“Paul Bertagna is the infrastructure of Sisters. He knows every pipe, wire, and street corner like the back of his hand. His institutional knowledge is unmatched, and making sure that knowledge is passed on is one of the smartest things the City can do. We’re fortunate he’s still around to guide the next chapter,” said Bill Kelly, chair of the Public Works Advisory Committee.
Gary Kutz taught fly-fishing skills to youngsters in Sisters last month.
PHOTO PROVIDED
By T. Lee Brown
Privilege is not a word that requires quotation marks. Privilege doesn’t necessarily mean being born with a silver spoon in your mouth or using a position of power to grant yourself immunity for your crimes.
Having an advantage due to our position or birth is a privilege. Another way to think about it, particularly given how the word privilege has been used during the last decade or three, is blessings.
Our ongoing blessings are the things that give us a little edge as we make our way in the world. Often we take them for granted or don’t see them at all.
Why are we unaware of our unique blessings? Well, unless we’re lacking a thing, we may not notice its presence.
Think of breaking a leg or spraining an ankle. If we happen to be non-disabled in the leg department,
suddenly we notice how convenient it has been, all these years, that our legs function pretty well. That’s a type of privilege: being able to walk.
It has been life-affirming to ask myself some questions:
Was I raised with a roof over my head, reliable meals, at least one family or community member who spent time with me, loved me, showed me how to live? Yes.
Lucky me. That upbringing was a blessing, one that gave me privilege. I give thanks.
Did I have access to a fairly good public education? Did adults in my community, school, and church provide a model for me, a model of how to behave and speak and sing, how to pray and express thanks? Did they show the possibilities I might strive for in my life? Yes.
I give thanks.
Have I been confined to a wheelchair most of my life? Prejudiced against because my skin was darker than the other kids? Did bullies circle me on the playground, laughing and poking at me because I spoke with an accent, like the war orphan at my elementary school? No.
I give thanks. Is my ethnic heritage out of step with mainstream America? Are my people on travel ban lists? Are our places of worship bombed regularly? Are we pulled out of work by officers because we look a certain way, sent to prison without
due process? No.
I give thanks.
Was I born with genitals that caused me to be treated differently from the visibly successful and influential people in my society? Yep. I was.
In many ways it was not a blessing to be female. I have experienced violence, harassment, lower pay, and everyday condescension due to my female characteristics.
Have I experienced physical and mental disabilities? Why yes, I have, and still do.
Was I homeless and housing insecure after being in a serious car accident, then violently attacked, wandering in a state of mind we might now call PTSD? Did I also have an undiagnosed, untreated mental illness? Did I later develop a sometimes crushing chronic illness? Yep.
Did people discriminate against me because of all this? Yes indeed. Some still do.
Even so, I give thanks. Experiencing prejudice, difficulty, and stigma helps me comprehend how fortunate I am in most other aspects of my life. Going through privations and challenges helps recognize what others might be going through, boosts my compassion.
Someone may have the same problems I have, but also have their families reject them, their peers beat the tar out of them, for being gay or trans.
Humans and resumesorting algorithms may ignore their job applications
because their name “sounds Black” and they are presumed unworthy of the job.
Their childhood may have been one of poverty, neglect, inadequate nutrition, with no one at home encouraging them to read.
Maybe no one showed them how to mend a fence, add and subtract, or hold a polite conversation.
Like the neighbor kids I used to cook for when I lived in a derelict part of Oakland, California, they may have been born with fetal alcohol syndrome, their mother addicted to crack cocaine.
My childhood had some problems — whose doesn’t? — but nothing so extreme.
Housed, taken to doctors and dentists, fed out of our own gardens and by the cattle we raised, given access to forests and meadows and
rivers, taken camping and fishing, shown a love of reading and curiosity about the wider world, encouraged by my conservative parents to pursue my wild artistic and academic dreams, I did more than OK.
I was blessed and privileged and perhaps spoiled. Though I worked hard to gain admission to my university of choice, I was set up for that success.
When illness and injury came to me, I was eventually able to navigate them. Not everyone has the resources, education, gumption, or support to make that happen.
My blessings give me an advantage over millions of other Americans. To deny my privilege would be dishonest and profoundly ungrateful.
I give thanks.
Cattlewomen gather at Black Butte Ranch
The American National CattleWomen (ANCW) gathered June 26–28 at Black Butte Ranch for a three-day regional meeting that brought together cattlewomen from six western states to network, collaborate, and discuss the future of the cattle industry.
Representatives from Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, and Wyoming were invited to the scenic Central Oregon region to take part in educational sessions, ranch tours, and shared meals showcasing local beef and producers. The event was hosted in part by the TriCounty CattleWomen, who welcomed more than 70 attendees with a custom beef taco lunch and a tour of the Teixeira Ranch, tour of Haystack Feeds of Jefferson County, followed by an evening social at Larkin Valley Ranch.
“Our members produced a beautiful custom taco lunch for guests with our local delicious beef,” said Deena Fidler, immediate past president of the TriCounty CattleWomen. “I was told by every state that was present that our lunch was superb. I’m so proud to be a part of these women.”
ZERO
WASTE: Events cut landfill waste significantly
Continued from page 3
and received a drink voucher in lieu of a new Silipint.
In the artists’ greenroom, organizers established a system for washing utensils and tableware, which saved a significant amount of single-use items going into the landfill, and added washable to-go containers for artists and staff.
SFF Presents has also received a grant of over $7,000 from Cand’Aid’s Crush It Campaign. This grant focuses on sustainability training, auditing, resource evaluation, best practices and forward planning.
“We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the 44 volunteers who staffed our sorting stations and supported our zero-waste leads. These amazing results would not be possible without their contribution,” Williams said.
By participating in SFF Presents’ zero waste efforts, patrons contribute directly to the environmental sustainability of Big Ponderoo, the Sisters Folk Festival, and the wider Sisters community. For more information, visit www. sffpresents.org.
Fidler added, “The cattlewomen of Central Oregon are an eclectic and tight-knit group with several outstanding successes. In my biased opinion, it only made sense to feature our wonderful area and show off our incredible local producers — all set against our picturesque landscape.”
Throughout the weekend, attendees engaged in discussions centered around the cattle market, estate planning, and state-by-state reports, with guest speakers
offering insights on industry trends and strategies for long-term sustainability. The event highlighted not only the resilience and leadership of women in agriculture but also the importance of regional collaboration in navigating evolving markets and policy landscapes.
The ANCW serves as a national voice for women in the cattle industry, promoting beef education, leadership development, and grassroots involvement. This gathering in Sisters
DARK SKIES: Public hearing is set for Thursday
Continued from page 3
• Clarifying types of facilities and lighting fixtures that are exempt.
The public is invited to attend a public hearing during the Planning Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, in the Barnes Sawyer Room of the Deschutes County Services Building, located at 1300 NW Wall St. in Bend. Community members can provide feedback in person or virtually. The meeting agenda and virtual log-in information can be found at www.deschutes.org/ meetings.
exemplified that mission — blending fellowship, professional growth, and celebration of the rural lifestyle.
For more information about the proposed lighting control amendments visit https://www.deschutes.org/ cd/page/247-25-000377-tadark-skies-text-amendments.
American National CattleWomen (ANCW) held a regional gathering at Black Butte Ranch last month. PHOTO PROVIDED
E-BIKES: Sisters has limited areas for popular bikes
hundreds of miles single track and gravel choices –and popular road bike destinations, cycling and Sisters are joined at the hip.
Is an e-bike in your future? Are you considering dipping into the trend? And what should you know? We asked the experts – Blazin Saddles and Eurosports, Sisters’ two bike shops both on Hood Avenue and both fixtures in town for sales and service.
Somewhat surprising, neither shop is all that bullish on e-bikes. Each sell and service them but express cautions.
“At this point, e-bikes in Sisters are very limited to where they can legally ride. There are zero trails in the Sisters area that are open to e-bikes,” said Blazin Saddles owner, Casey Meudt.
“We sell a good amount of hybrid and road e-bikes that are good for on road and light off road such as gravel roads and dirt roads. We also do not rent e-mountain bikes because of our local restrictions and educate those that are interested in buying or renting that our trails are not open to e-bikes, yet.”
Down the street at Eurosports, owner Brad Boyd likens the market to “the wild west.”
“There are 3,500 e-bike manufacturers, many offering cheap, poorly made bikes or overselling the bike’s capabilities,” he said. “Do you really want to buy a bike on Amazon?”
Boyd agrees that many of these bikes are from the same component sources, mostly in China, and branded as singular types, when in fact it’s repackaging with slight design changes. There is little to no service, most require self-assembly, and customer support is sketchy.
Like Meudt, he points out that e-bikes are not allowed on single track trails in the Deschutes National Forest.
in August and if approved, implementation will take place in September.
Pedal assisted bikes work with the rider to multiply the force they put into the pedals. The harder one pedals, the more assistance.
Throttle assist is like a motorcycle. These bicycles may be pedaled, but that is not necessary for forward travel. The assistance comes from moving a throttle most located on the handlebars. Also, the power is provided either by a motor at the crank or in the rear hub.
Here’s a brief overview of the three classes:
Class 1 e-bikes: have a motor (max 750W) that assists while pedaling up to 20 mph but has no throttle. Essentially pedal-assist makes it easier to ride for the
user, especially nice on hills or while going for longer distances. This class often includes types like mountain bikes, townies, low-end commuters, and hybrids.
Class 2 e-bikes: pedals assist up to 20 mph but also has a throttle. Think of these as more of a low-end motor scooter and are popular with persons who are looking for a low exercise form of transportation or cannot pedal as well.
Class 3 e-bikes: have up to a 750W (a.k.a. 1-horsepower) motor but can assist you up to 28 mph. These also do not have a throttle. This class includes high-end commuters, cargo bikes, gravel bikes, and road bikes.
“I think that will change,” he said, “but for now it is technically illegal.”
Under mounting public pressure to allow their use, on July 2, 2024, the Forest Service announced a public comment period on proposed Class 1 pedal-assist e-bike usage on select trails in the Deschutes. The public comment for this project ended on July 31, 2024.
The Forest Service proposes to authorize Class 1, pedal-assist e-bikes on roughly 160 miles of existing system trails and paved paths. These routes receive high use by bicycles. Trails are in the Peterson Ridge, Phil’s, Wanoga, and Sunriver areas. Numerous groups oppose the idea, some strenuously.
A decision is expected
A favorable decision is likely to increase further demand for the bikes.
Meudt says there is much to consider.
“Understanding the different classifications of e-bikes and the areas that you can ride (or where you will be able to ride in the Sisters area soon) is important,” he said. “Also, the different types of drive systems (mid drive versus hub driven), the pros/ cons of each, and the brand of drive system is good to know before buying. Like anything, you get what you pay for, with e-bikes especially. A reputable motor/ battery manufacturer makes a big difference regarding reliability and the overall experience.”
Boyd takes pains to know how and where a prospective buyer will use their bike.
“Riders often overestimate the places and distances they will ride,” he said. “Getting fitted correctly is critical to ensuring a fun, easy ride.”
At his shop, one can spend around $2,000 or put out $5,000, even more for an e-bike. Weight is usually the driving factor. The lighter the bike, the more the cost.
“We don’t have much demand for fat tire e-bikes as they easily can run up to 75 pounds and that then gets you into more expensive carrying racks,” he said.
Both stress the importance of knowing the classes of e-bikes and Boyd points out that motor watts is not the true indication of the bike’s power.
“Newton meters (Nm) are more important than watts when choosing an e-bike motor because they determine acceleration, while watts determine top speed,” Boyd explained.
E-bikes are popular, but are not allowed on forest single-track.
PHOTO COURTESY HIMIWAY BIKES
Sisters Country birds
By Douglas Beall Correspondent
The Cassin’s Vireo (Vireo cassinii) , known as the “question and answer bird,” has a distinctive, twopart, four-note song, which makes it easy to identify and track in the field. He is the only bird who sounds like he is asking himself a question, then answering himself, too.
Male Cassin’s Vireos are also known for singing from their nests, a habit which is appreciated by naturalists who are trying to document nesting habits for a study about how prescribed burning within riparian areas affects bird nesting success. It is a small, greenishgray bird that can be distinguished from other vireos by its white eye rings and lores, which look like a pair of “spectacles” across the top of the beak. The Cassin’s Vireo diet consists largely of insects gleaned from forest foliage. These birds normally breed in conifer/mixed conifer hardwood forests from British Columbia to California and Nevada and spend their winters between southern Arizona and Guatemala.
Although populations of Cassin’s Vireo are widespread, they are unevenly distributed throughout
the forest; the birds tend to prefer warm, dry forests and usually stay away from cool and open areas. Perhaps the biggest threat to Cassin’s Vireo is their nests being heavily parasitized by Brown-Headed Cowbirds. This parasitism reduces the number of eggs a female vireo lays, decreases the hatching rate of vireo eggs, and increases the rate of starvation of vireo nestlings through competition with the larger cowbird nestlings. However, despite the pressures of nest parasitism, Cassin’s Vireo populations have remained stable, and some have actually increased in recent years.
Males arrive in late spring and begin singing on their chosen territory. When other males approach they may “countersing” until they drive off the competing male. A scraggly nest is built using grasses, lichen, and they may adorn the nest with spider’s eggs and pieces of hornets nests. Three to five whitish brown eggs are laid and incubate in only 12-14 days and the chicks fledge in 13-14 days.
Groups of vireos are referred to as a “concert,” a “charm,” a “warble,” or an “orchestra.” To view more vireo images, visit https:// abirdsingsbecauseithas asong.com/recent-journeys/.
Cassin’s Vireo.
PHOTO
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:
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CATEGORIES:
102 Commercial Rentals
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. STORAGE WITH BENEFITS
8 x 20 dry box
Fenced yard, RV & trailers
In-town, gated, 24-7
EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com
103 Residential Rentals
Studio Apartment 700 Sq. Ft
Rent month-to-month, very quiet, completely furnished, carpeted, Samsung TV, full refridgerator, Ninja Cooker, micro, hot plate, Sleepese queen bed, complete shower and toilet, min-split HVAC, no pets, references reqr, credit check, $1,100 first mth, plus $1,100 deposit required Jack Graham 541-420-0175
– Sisters Oregon Guide –Pick one up throughout town!
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 —
CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS
Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792
Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com
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
Downtown Vacation Rentals
Popular 1 and 2 Bedroom
SistersVacationRentals.net
Great pricing. 503-730-0150
~ Sisters Vacation Rentals ~ Private Central OR vac. rentals, Property Management Services 541-977-9898 www.SistersVacation.com
201 For Sale
JL, WL-1000 Wood Lathe 120 V, 1720 RPM, 3/4 HP. Adj 4 speeds - $200
Allan 503-4374039
Exercise bike - $20: back rest, folds to 22"X19".
Heated massage chair - $45: reclines, folds to 12"X26". Marianne 541-904-4683
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
SATURDAY, JULY 12
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 430 N. Fir St., Sisters. Come and check us out!
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
Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875
I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Home of Brando's Natural Dog Biscuits • 541-306-7551 • Julie SISTERS WHISKERS
Your purr-fect friend is waiting for you at our local nonprofit cat rescue! Apply to adopt at: sisterswhiskers.org
500 Services
Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul! 541-719-8475
GAMMILL LONGARM Classic Plus 2005 Machine 12' Table & Light Bar Call for details 541-815-6853
I AM A CAREGIVER Looking for work in Sisters, Part-Time
Please call Lynn 503-274-0214.
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
• DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279
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
Audio/video, data networking, WIFI, security camera, alarms. CCB #191099 541-306-0729
502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning GORDON’S LAST TOUCH Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY
Member Better Business Bureau
• Bonded & Insured • Serving Central Oregon Since 1980 Call 541-549-3008
M & J CARPET CLEANING Area rugs, upholstery, tile & dryer-vent cleaning. Established & family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090
504 Handyman
3 Sisters Handyman Services 20+ years experience No job too large or small. Snow removal services available.
Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Call Nate 907-748-4100 sistershandyman@gmail.com CCB# 253556
600 Tree Service & Forestry
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
– 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
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.
• 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 SUDOKU Level: Difficult Answer: Page 23
TimberStandImprovement.net
Tree Removal & Pruning TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825
601 Construction
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
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
Construction & Renovation
Custom Residential Projects
All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448
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 — 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
602 Plumbing & Electric — 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
SWEENEY
PLUMBING, INC.
“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling • New Construction • Water Heaters 541-549-4349
Residential and Commercial
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587
603 Excavation & Trucking
Full Service Excavation
Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED
CRAFTSMAN BUILT
CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062
www.sistersfencecompany.com
CASCADE GARAGE DOORS
Factory Trained Technicians
Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
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
BANR Enterprises, LLC
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Residential & Commercial
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977 www.BANR.net
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
604 Heating & Cooling ACTION AIR
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com CCB #195556 541-549-6464
Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service
Residential & Commercial Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair 541-588-5667
SistersHeatingAir.com 605 Painting
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
EMPIRE PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
Walls Needing a Touchup? Check the Classifieds!
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
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
– 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
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
STEVE'S HAULING Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370
701 Domestic Services
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897 801 Classes & Training
BRUCE FENN TENNIS CAMP SISTERS MIDDLE SCHOOL COURTS
BOYS/GIRLS AGES 10-14
2 SESSIONS: AUG. 18-21 AND AUG. 25-28, 9 AM TO 3 PM. $10 HOURLY INSTRUCTION FREE T-SHIRT
LOANER RACQUETS
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
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
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. 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 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
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!
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
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
AUGUST 13 FOR DISCOUNT REGISTRATION
CONTACT HIGH SCHOOL COACH FENN
or the business office at 301 South Elm Street, Sisters, OR 97759. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on July 11, 2025. For more information contact 541-549-0771.
For no additional cost your classified goes ONLINE! Go to www.NuggetNews.com DEADLINE: Every Monday by noon. Call 541-549-9941
SUDOKU SOLUTION
for puzzle on page 22
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