The Nugget
Post Office readies for busy season
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
The holiday season is one of joy and festivity — but for the folks who staff Sisters Post Office, it’s also extremely stressful.
The local post office handles an overwhelming number of packages during
the holiday season. It is not uncommon for the back room to be literally piled to the ceiling with packages, a great many of them from Amazon, in a facility that was not built to handle the volume of e-commerce that Sisters generates in 2025.
Voters to decide on county districts
By Susan Cobb Correspondent
Voters next year will have the opportunity to decide whether to divide Deschutes County into districts for the purpose of electing county commissioners. The Deschutes Mapping Advisory Committee recommended Map C (see graphic, page 18) to the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) on November 12. Map C delineates five voting districts for commissioner candidates. The BOCC will soon review Map C to modify
See DISTRICTS on page 18
The ‘chicken coop’ on Highway 20
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Ever wonder what goes on at the weigh station just east of Sisters on Highway 20? You know, the little hut where trucks sometimes are seen being weighed or inspected?
In trucker lingo, drivers often refer to weigh stations as “chicken coops,” or just plain “coops.” A common CB chat between two drivers may sound something like “Hey, East-Bound, what are the coops doing behind you?” followed by, “Well, WestBound, the Chicken House is open and weighing your chicken.”
By Susan Cobb Correspondent
The City of Sisters (City) Council and Board of Deschutes County Commissioners (BOCC) met to discuss what some referred to in the November 13 workshop as “hot topics.” The workshop covered updates on the Deschutes County (County) district mapping effort (see story, page 1), a future landfill siting, the City’s Urban Growth
The Nugget spent some time last week with Vince Spanna, a 23-year veteran Motor Carrier Enforcement Officer. He is one of three officers and a supervisor who staff five weigh stations in Central Oregon. The one in Sisters for eastbound Highway 20 traffic, another between Bend and Sunriver on northbound Highway 97, the Horse Ridge Summit Scale on westbound Highway 20 about 11 miles east of Bend, eastbound Highway 26 just one mile east of Prineville, and Juniper Butte serving traffic in both directions on Highway 97 about 13 miles south of Madras.
The Sisters scale, which has been around for some 50 years, was established primarily for the heavy flow of logging trucks. The stations are under the umbrella of Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The Nugget’s visit included ODOT Commerce and Compliance Regional Manager Emily Branch, based in Cascade Locks.
She and Spanna explained the ins-and-outs, comingsand-goings of the coop. A weigh station is a designated checkpoint along a highway where a truck’s weight is checked. Weigh stations are equipped with scales. For older scales, trucks usually stop to be weighed. Newer weigh-in-motion models allow trucks to be weighed
while driving through the scale.
Weigh stations are used to check a truck’s weight to ensure it is not overweight and is compliant with state laws and safety guidelines. The weight of a truck is usually calculated in two measurements:
• Axle Weight — The amount of weight carried by each tandem axle on a truck. This is found by dividing the total weight of the load and trailer by the total number of tandem axles and then adding the weight of the tractor or pickup.
• Gross weight —The combined weight of the load, trailer, tractor or pickup, and any added accessories carried
Vince Spanna on the job at the “Chicken Coop” — weigh station — at the east end of Sisters.
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
PHOTO BY NATE LICHVARCIK
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.
From the superintendent
To the Editor:
Recent board discussions highlighted several encouraging developments that reflect our community’s commitment to strong schools and student success.
The district is proactively monitoring enrollment trends and exploring thoughtful solutions to ensure long-term stability. Work is also underway to make the most of districtowned assets. An engineering firm is currently evaluating the District Office property for division and rezoning, and architects are nearing completion of renovation plans that will transform the Coffield Center into the future District Office, an exciting step toward more efficient and accessible operations.
Additional efforts include ongoing collaboration with the Forest Service and Deschutes Land Trust as the district explores a potential grant to support thinning work in the Trout Creek Conservancy Area, enhancing both
safety and environmental stewardship.
There was discussion that the next few years may present financial challenges for schools across the state. Rising costs coupled with federal and state budget adjustments, a slowing economy, and decreased enrollment are the reasons all districts in the state are experiencing these challenges.
Amid these operational updates, the community celebrated the ribbon cutting of the new greenhouse and enjoyed outstanding performances from fall sports teams, many of which advanced to state competition, an inspiring reflection of student dedication and staff support.
Sisters is a community that shows up, works together, and invests in its youth.
To stay informed about district news and updates, sign up for our newsletter at https:// district.ssd6.org.
Curt Scholl Superintendent
Sisters Weather Forecast
The Nugget Newspaper, LLC
www.nuggetnews.com | 541-549-9941
442 E. Main Ave., P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759
Postmaster: Send address changes to The Nugget Newspaper, PO Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759. 3rd Class Postage Paid at Sisters, OR.
The Nugget is available to pick up free at The Nugget office and at businesses throughout Sisters and Tumalo; mail subscriptions are available in the 97759, 97756, 97730, and 97703 zip codes for $55/year; subscriptions outside these zip codes: $70/year, $45/six months (or less).
Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius, editor@nuggetnews.com
Graphic Design, Billing: Leith Easterling, accounting@nuggetnews.com
Creative Director: Jess Draper, jess@nuggetnews.com
Community Marketing Partner: Kimberly Young, ads@nuggetnews.com
Classifieds, Circulation: Wendy Bachmeier, nugget@nuggetnews.com
Proofreading: Kema Clark
Co-owner: J. Louis Mullen
‘Nuggets From A Small Town’
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
I recently hit a milestone birthday. I have hit 60. As one does, I asked myself how that could possibly have happened, which is, of course, a silly question. It happened like most everything does: one day at a time.
We kept things low-key; I’m not one for big celebrations. A couple of dinners at Sisters eateries, and time spent with family, doing things I love to do. Pausing at the milestone did give me a moment to reflect. I have spent more than half my life in Sisters; more than half my life with The Nugget Newspaper Occasionally someone asks me why. The answer is fairly simple. My wife, Marilyn, and I still value what brought us here back in October of 1993. Newly married, we visited Sisters in August because Phil Arends was looking for a travel agent to help with his thriving business, Desert Wings Travel, and he had known Marilyn back in Southern California. We looked out upon the Three Sisters from the fence line of what was then Patterson Ranch (now Pole Creek Ranch) and I told Marilyn, “I’ll pump gas or whatever we have to do to live here.”
it to become a career, but it did — because the work remains interesting, challenging, and has value. Not everybody is lucky enough to have work that offers meaning and purpose, and I have always been very mindful of that. I know that the Sisters community values the work that The Nugget staff and freelancers create week in and week out, because you tell us so. Sisters has continued to support its newspaper, allowing us to strive and thrive even in a global environment that has seen countless similar operations fold.
I think a lot these days about what makes Sisters the community that it is; what has changed, what has stayed constant through change. My nature is that when I think about something I want to write about it — partly to hone my thinking and partly to engage in conversation with others. I want to write about some of the undercurrents of the Sisters community that don’t necessarily lend themselves to stories or columns in the paper. Longer “think pieces” and some odds-andends that are interesting and fun to kick around but aren’t really “news.” So, we’re launching “Nuggets From A Small Town.” Call it a blog, I guess. You will be able to access it via subscription at www.nuggetnews.com or at https://jimcornelius609. substack.com. I figure there will be two to four essays a month, mostly from me, but also from other writers.
After 32 years, we look out on those mountains and they’re all still standing there. They’re not something you take for granted — just look at Nate Lichvarcik’s magnificent front page photo this week. You don’t find that just anywhere. Last week, I had a visit from a woman I went to school with from kindergarten through college. Driving up from Bend, she found the Sisters so awe inspiring that she shouted out loud about it. That’s a good reminder that we made a good choice all those years ago.
I have stayed with The Nugget because the work I do here suits my skills and temperament. I started freelancing here under Erik Dolson’s editorship in February 1994, because I wanted to find an outlet for my writing. I didn’t expect
The inaugural piece, which will post next week, will be a dive into how a community that is as (surprisingly) diverse as Sisters, one that is changing rapidly in its culture, defines its identity — or if it even should. My hope is that essays like this will spark some lively conversation about this place we all have chosen. And your subscriptions — which aren’t expensive — will help The Nugget , because direct reader support is critical to our ongoing viability.
So thanks in advance for signing up, and I look forward to seeing you there.
Recreation District are open for play. The pickleball courts are a key element of SPRD’s community center and park located at the East Cascade Avenue and Larch Street.
a great photo of life in Sisters Country? Send to
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
Pickleball is on!
Students make veterans feel special
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
It’s been a long tradition at the school district to honor members of the armed forces every Veterans Day, November 11. It is not a frivolous event, nor is it entirely somber. It’s celebratory, and last week’s recognition was no exception.
It is emotional to be sure, as anybody who has ever attended will tell you. There are a number of tearful moments but it is not melancholy.
It began, as customary, with a light breakfast at the elementary school in the commons. Veterans from various groups — Band of Brothers, VFW (Veterans
of Foreign Wars), and American Legion — about 30 in all from differing branches of the military, mingled with students many of whom had relatives on hand for the recognition.
Following a student-led Pledge of Allegiance, things got underway with SOS (Sisters Outlaw Singers), some 30 choir members delighting the audience. Afterwards, the fifth-graders escorted the veterans to the high school auditorium already filled with middle and high schoolers.
Again, music filled the room with a rousing mix of patriotic songs including the “Armed Forces Medley,” also known as the “Armed Forces Salute,” a collection
of the official marchpasts/ songs of the six services of the United States Armed Forces: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
The chorus and band were in top form setting the stage for the remaining activities that included a reverent “Missing Man” Table presentation.
The Missing Man Table, sometimes referred to as the Fallen Comrade Table, is meant to remind viewers of those fallen, missing, or imprisoned U.S. military service members.
The assembly was joyful and respectful with
See VETERANS on page 15
Project Unify promotes academics, service, athletics
By Lilli Worona Correspondent
Project Unify, a national program affiliated with the Special Olympics, aims to promote social inclusion of students with and without intellectual disabilities in schools across the country.
The program, brought to Sisters High School about 16 years ago, has expanded in recent years to include the middle and elementary school, as well as a transition program. The transition program supports students who graduate with an alternative diploma, helping them to integrate into the community while building vocational and independent living skills.
Josh Nordell,
a 17-year
veteran special ed teacher at Sisters High School, is largely responsible for the program’s presence in the Sisters School District. Nordell has dedicated countless hours to the cause, despite the fact that his professional role at the high school pulls him in several other directions.
“I serve as a Special Education teacher and have two main roles within the Sisters School District,” he said. “My first role is as the head teacher of the Life Skills Program, which serves neurodiverse students who may find it challenging to participate fully in general education classes. My second role involves running
Big Ponderoo will return to Sisters in 2026
SFF Presents will welcome audiences back to Village Green Park on Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27, 2026 for the fourth annual Big Ponderoo Music + Art Festival. Produced by the team behind the long-standing Sisters Folk Festival, Big Ponderoo celebrates the thriving music and arts community in Central Oregon and brings lively Americana, bluegrass, and alt-country music to two stages.
Weekend passes go on sale
SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR
BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS
Al -Anon
Mon., noon, Shepherd of t he Hills
Lutheran Church. 5 41-610 -7383.
Alcoholics A nonymou s
Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of t he Hills
Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,G entlemen’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Thursday, noon, Sober Sisters Women’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
Thursday, 7 p.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration • Fr iday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-5 48 -0 440. Saturday, 8 a.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration • Sunday, 7 p.m Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration Central Oregon F ly Tye rs G uild For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelef ly@msn.c om Central Oregon Trail A lliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@cotamtb.com for info.
Ci tizens4Communit y C ommunity
Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of ever y mont h, 10 to 11:30 a.m. V isit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for loc ation.
Council on Aging of Cent ral O rego n
Senior Lunch In- person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grab -and -go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs 12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters C ommunity Church. 5 41-4 8 0-18 43 East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September- June), Stitchin’ Post . A ll are welcome. 5 41-5 49 -6 061.
G o Fish Fishing G roup 3rd Monday
7 p.m., Siste rs C ommunity Church. 541-771-2211
Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Siste rs Communit y Church. M ater ials provided.
541- 408 -8 505.
Hero Q uilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 5 41-6 68 -1755
Living Well W ith Dementia Sisters Care Par tner Suppor t Group. 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Siste rs Park & Recreation District Communi ty Center. 541- 588 -0547.
Mili tary Parent s of S isters Meetings are held quarter ly; please c all 5 41-388 -9 013.
Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 5 41-5 49 -6 469.
Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158
Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:3 0 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church. 5 41-5 49 -6157.
Sisters Area Woodworke rs First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 5 41-231-18 97
Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters C ommunity Church. Email sister sbridge2021@gmail.com.
Sisters Caregi ver Sup por t G roup 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Siste rs Library Communit y Room. 5 41-588 -0547. (M eets with Living Well With Dementia Sisters)
Sisters Cribbage C lub Wednesdays, 11 a.m. at The Lodge, 411 E. Car penter Lane. 5 09 -9 47-574 4.
Sisters Garden C lub For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com.
Sisters Habitat for Humanit y Board of D irectors 4th Tuesday, 4:3 0 p.m.
Location infor mation: 5 41-5 49 -1193.
Sisters Kiwani s 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:3 0 a.m. to 1 p.m., at S PR D in Sisters 541- 632- 3663
Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons. 917-219-8298
Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon to 1 p.m., at SPR D. 541-76 0- 5645
Sisters Veterans no- host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant. All veterans welcome, 5 41-241-6 56 3.
Sisters Trails A lliance Board
Meetings take plac e ever y other month, 5 p.m. In- person or zoom. Contact: info@sisterstrails.org
Three Sister s Irrigation Distric t Board of Direc tors M eets 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSI D Of fice 541- 903- 4050
Three Sister s Lions Club 2nd Thursday, 6:3 0 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 5 41-419 -1279. VF W Po st 8138 and A merican Legion Post 8 6 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:3 0 p.m., Pine Meadow V illage Clubhouse, 596 W. Jef ferson Ave. 541-241- 6563
at a discounted holiday price on Wednesday, November 19, at 10 a.m. at aftontickets. com/BigPonderoo.
A limited number of tickets are available for $195 per adult (limit four per person) while supplies last or through January 2, 2026, whichever comes first. The next tier of tickets will be priced at $215 per adult. Children ages 12 and under get free admission with an accompanying adult,
SCHOOLS
Black Bu tt e School Board of Dire ctor s 3rd Tuesday, 9 a.m., Black But te School. 541- 59 5- 6203
Sisters School District Board of Directors O ne Wednesday m onthly, Sisters School District Administr ation Building. See schedule at www.ssd 6. org. 5 41-5 49 -8 521 x5 002.
CIT Y & PARKS
Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters Cit y Hall 541- 549- 6022
Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Dire ctor s 2nd & 4th Tues., 4 p.m., C of f ield Center. 5 41-5 49 -2091. Sisters Pl anning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:3 0 p.m., Siste rs City Hall. 5 41-5 49 -6 022.
FIRE & POLICE
Black Bu tt e Ranch Polic e Dept. Board of Dire ctor s M eets monthly 541- 59 5-2191 for time & date
Black Bu tt e Ranch R FPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BB R Fire Station. 5 41-595 -2 28 8
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
Layne Smithers was awarded a $400 check by the Sisters VFW post for his essay on patriotism during Veterans Day observances at Sisters schools on November 11.
See PONDEROO on page 13
JV volleyball squad goes undefeated
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws JV volleyball squad wrapped up a stellar season, finishing 17-0. They swept every opponent on their schedule, with only two matches extending to four sets. Remarkably, the roster featured just eight players: Kate Mock, Josta Fuentes, Jessica Stahn, Molly Fredland, Kendal Lamb, Avery Horton, Malia O’Brien, and Maren Labhart — each of whom played a critical role in Sisters’ dominant run through league play.
Setter Kate Mock ran a 5-1 offense throughout the season and delivered steady play match after match. She tallied 276 assists, 79 aces, 26 kills, and 26 digs in league play.
“Kate was very consistent with her serves — calm on the court and a really good server,” said Coach Josilyn (Remi) Remick.
In the middle, Josta Fuentes was one of Sisters’ leading hitters and tallied 86 kills. She also recorded 56 digs, 52 aces, and four blocked shots.
“Josta brought a lot of love and energy to the team,” Remick said. “She was most useful to us in the middle because her height allowed her to have a harder attack, and at the JV level that isn’t expected as much.”
Outside hitter Jessica Stahn contributed 75 kills, 55 digs, and 47 aces on the season.
“Jessica has a ton of power and when she got it in the court it was a kill every time,” Remick noted. “She was also one of our better servers.”
Defensive Specialist (DS) Molly Fredland was an anchor in the back row with 45 digs. She also tallied 14 kills and 30 aces.
“Molly was a great DS and definitely the most consistent,” said Remick. “She
brought a quiet presence to the court, which helped in chaotic situations.”
Outside hitter Kendal Lamb led the team offensively with 96 kills and 80 aces, along with 55 digs and 52 assists. She transitioned from setter to outside hitter to give the Outlaws more attacking options.
“Kendal became a consistent hitter from that position,” Remick said.
Avery Horton played both right side and middle and was one of the team’s most improved players. She recorded 33 kills, five digs, and a block.
“Avery started the season as a right side and transitioned to middle as well,” said Remick. “She wasn’t an aggressive attacker in the beginning but quickly adjusted and became a strong right side hitter.”
Defensive Specialist Malia O’ Brien showed tremendous growth over the course of league play. She finished with 25 digs and 17 assists.
“Malia improved throughout the season and sacrificed her body for any ball,” Remick said.
Middle hitter Maren Labhart finished the season with 86 kills and provided
Malia improved throughout the season and sacrificed her body for any ball.
— Josilyn Remick
a strong presence at the net. She also tallied 37 digs and 32 aces.
“Maren was a big factor for us in the middle because of her height,” Remick said. “She was very smart when it came to changing the direction of the ball and finding the weak spot on the court.”
Remick told The Nugget that the Lady Outlaws had “the best mechanics of any JV squad in the league” — a factor she credited for their consistency and dominance throughout an undefeated season.
The team’s favorite memory came from early in the year at the Crook County Tournament.
“Our bus driver took us the wrong direction and we got to the tournament just five minutes before we were supposed to play,” Remick recalled. “The girls ended up winning and took home first place.”
Soccer players make all-league roster
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws boys soccer program announced its all-league selections, highlighted by senior leaders who anchored both ends of the field.
First team all-league honors went to seniors Jesse Polachek and Nick Palmer.
Polachek, one of the Outlaws captains, was the backbone of the team’s defense and also contributed three goals on the season. He spent his junior year playing in England before returning for his senior year.
“Jesse is a very experienced player,” said Coach Jeff Husmann. “He’s very capable of shutting down the best strikers in our league. He knows the position well. He’s a positive leader on the team and also coaches the younger players.”
Palmer earned first-team honors as an attacking midfielder, scoring six goals and tallying seven assists in league play.
“Nick is the workhorse of our team,” Husmann said. “He’s incredibly skilled and has excellent field vision.”
Second-team all-league
Mason is a skilled player and has really stepped up as a leader on the team this year.
— Jeff Husmann
recognition went to sophomore Alex Nieto, the Outlaws’ holding midfielder. Nieto recorded seven goals and nine assists.
“Alex has an incredible work rate and a strong soccer IQ,” said Husmann. “He is the distributor and helped create scoring opportunities. He’s creative and crafty.”
Honorable mention honors were awarded to sophomore Odin Rea and senior Mason Dahl.
Husmann noted that Rea made significant strides this season as a center defender.
“Odin is tough and a very smart player,” said Husmann.
Dahl proved to be one of the team’s most versatile players, often working out of the midfield. He finished with six goals and six assists.
“Mason is a skilled player and has really stepped up as a leader on the team this year,” said Husmann.
Source of Flat Fire not revealed
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
The Flat Fire was still smoldering as of November 13. It is 97 percent contained, 23,346 acres have been lost, and its suppression costs exceed $29 million. That’s 22 percent of the entirety of ODF’s (Oregon Department of Forestry) cost of the just concluded fire season.
Nearly three months from its start, the public is no closer to knowing the source of the Flat Fire — and may not for many more months, even years, possibly never.
In a statement last August, ODF Information Officer Derek Gasperini said, “For our investigations, we have to use an evidence-based process. What we know right now is the point of origin. It was on private property, protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry of Central Oregon.”
Speculation was rife in the community that the fire had started in a homeless camp. Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang disputed the homeless characterization at the time:
“Neighbors, firefighters, law enforcement officers have shared with me that this was not started in a homeless encampment,” Chang said.
Chang asserts that the fire started in an off-the-grid neighborhood on private land.
“There’s a lot of people who are living off-the-grid in mobile homes and RVs. That is not a homeless encampment. That is rural poverty,” Chang said. “This whole area is private land. In most cases, it is the property owner or somebody who has the property owner’s permission who has parked their RV or mobile home out there. That is very different than a public land homeless encampment.”
In an effort to determine the status of the investigation into the cause of the fire that took five homes in Sisters
I know the frustration people are feeling, but the process is complex and thorough.
— Jessica Neujahr
Country and forced hundreds of people to evacuate, The Nugget spoke at length last week with ODF Public Affairs Officer Jessica Neujahr.
“I know the frustration people are feeling, but the process is complex and thorough,” she said. “We are still investigating and that involves many pieces — from physical evidence gathering to witness statements to on-scene accounts to dispatch records.”
If it is concluded that the fire was ignited by natural causes like lightning, then the report would normally be completed within a matter of months, and released to the public.
Neujahr explained that were it ascertained to be human caused, a determination then has to be made if it was accidental but not careless, or accidental and careless or negligent. The former might be an electrical short in a camper or a welding spark. The latter could include an illegal campfire or a campfire not properly extinguished.
In the first example, the State may or may not seek restitution, in which case the matter is concluded and the report and findings made public. But if the State seeks restitution, it can take years of litigation, during which time the report remains under seal, undisclosed.
There is always the thorny question of liability. If a camper or squatter, for example, trespassed onto private property, the landowner has mitigating circumstances and may plead no culpability.
The courts and prosecutors have shown a wide range of
discretion in such cases. In some situations, the offender is not alone in culpability. The example most used is the bartender who overserves a patron, and the patron commits a felony or property damage upon leaving the bar. Most jurisdictions have laws on the books penalizing the bartender or the establishment as well.
Given the early accounts, which are not being denied publicly, that the fire’s origin was on private property in Jefferson County, readers could expect many months or years before knowing the cause and responsible parties if any.
Oregon recorded more than 1,100 fires in 2025 from early June to mid-October burning some 350,000 acres, an enormous reduction from the 1.9 million acres that burned in 2024.
Nearly 85 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by humans. Human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, the burning of debris, equipment use and malfunctions, negligently discarded cigarettes, and intentional acts of arson.
Girls soccer announces three all-league players
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws girls soccer team had three players earn all-league honors this season. Senior Zoee Bafford and sophomore Wynona (Nona) Smith were named first-team all-league selections, and senior Mia Rosas received honorable mention.
Bafford played primarily as a central attacking midfielder, but also stepped in as an outside left midfielder when needed. She finished the season with nine goals, the second-highest total on the squad.
“Zoee was a major threat in the middle with her speed, strong foot, and tenacity,” said Coach Ken Polachek. “I can’t wait to see her next steps in the game of soccer beyond high school, because this was her senior swan song.”
Smith showcased her
versatility throughout the year, filling roles as an outside midfielder and central defensive midfielder. She led the team with 11 goals.
“Nona was recognized for her incredible speed and one-on-one defensive skills,” said Polachek. “She has great potential for the remaining high school years because she is indeed only a sophomore.”
Rosas rounded out the Outlaws honorees with an honorable mention selection. She anchored the midfield and back line as a center defensive midfielder or sweeper.
“Mia was recognized for her outstanding ball control, passing abilities, and consistency,” said Polachek. “She was a large part of our success this season because of her leadership on and off the field. Honorable mention doesn’t reflect the effort and passion she put into this team and her play.”
Large or small, distinctive, fine cra ed woodwork our home
DALE HOLUB, MASTER WO ODWORKER
Eby named Defensive Player of the Year
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws had 15 players named to all league teams, and Ethan Eby was at the top of the list. Senior Eby was named the Defensive Player of the Year and was a firstteam all-league selection at both linebacker and running back.
During league play, Eby recorded 17 tackles, 12 assists, one sack, and one fumble recovery on defense. On offense he rushed for 385 yards and five touchdowns.
Coach Hayden Hudson said, “Ethan was a unanimous vote for Defensive Player of the Year. His awareness on the field and ability to make plays in any direction made him very tough to play and scheme against. He was a very good running back for the Outlaws, and averaged 15 carries a game. He eclipsed 100 yards rushing five times averaging 6.1 yards per carry over the course of the entire season. The mixture of Ethan’s strength and determination made him a tough back to tackle, oftentimes taking two to three defenders to bring him down.
“At the strong linebacker position, Ethan was the center piece of the Outlaws defense,” added Hudson. “His ability to play the run and pass game made him a very difficult player to scheme against and oftentimes teams would run away from his position on the field. Ethan led the defense in tackles over the course of the entire season and forced fumbles from his linebacker position.”
In addition to Eby, seniors Jace Owens, Trent Gordon, and Joseph Derksen, junior Spencer Davis, and sophomore Cash Allen were also first-team all-league picks.
Owens was a first-team receiver, and also earned second-team linebacker. He tallied nine receptions for 83
yards and two touchdowns. He also recorded 27 tackles, 10 assists, one forced fumble recovery, and three picks.
“Jace played at the slot receiver position on offense,” said Hudson. “While he did not get many touches early on, in the latter half of the season Jace exploded in the stat book converting multiple touchdowns in spectacular fashion. His speed at the position made him very difficult to cover in the passing game and his strength was put on display many times as he would run through defenders.
“At linebacker, Jace was at home,” added Hudson. “He could show off all aspects of his athletic abilities. Jace had a phenomenal ability to read outside run and was able to set edges early and often to make tackles for little or no gain. His ability to drop into coverage and play the pass was just as strong and he had multiple interceptions alongside a defensive touchdown.”
Gordon earned first-team defensive line, and recorded seven tackles, seven assists, two sacks, and one pick during league.
“Trent found his home on the defensive line during his junior season and this year became a force from that spot,” said Hudson. “Playing the strong side end, Trent often played against multiple blockers, but that did not deter him at all and he would find himself in the offensive backfield making plays in the running game or putting pressure on the quarterback. Trent led the defense in sacks this season and was second in quarterback pressures and tackles for loss.”
Davis was selected firstteam defensive back, and also earned honorable mention as a returner. He recorded 11 tackles and nine assists. He also returned the ball for 253 yards and one touchdown.
“Spencer played the safety position on defense and would relay the calls from
the sideline,” said Hudson. “He was the captain of the defensive side of the ball and would be in charge of changing any calls if the offense came out in something that was not expected. Spencer has a great ability to play the ball in the air from his position and to fill the alleys on the run. As a returner, he’s very dangerous and it showed many times during league play. He returned one kickoff and one punt for touchdowns this season and at times later in the year was often kicked away from to prevent him from getting the ball.”
Derksen was named firstteam kicker. He averaged 48 yards on kickoff and 26 yards punting, and was 10-12 on field goal attempts during league.
“Joseph came to us as a two-sport swing player from soccer,” said Hudson. “This was his first year playing football and while it was slow at the beginning, he quickly grew at the position and became a weapon for the Outlaws. When a kicker has the ability to put the ball in the end zone taking away any chance of a return and then forcing them to start on their 25-yard line, it is a tremendous help for the defense.”
Allen earned first-team offensive line. He played at the guard position and at center for the Outlaws. He recorded six tackles and three assists.
“Cash has a very high motor and is extremely smart at the position,” said Hudson. “He could easily play all five spots on the offensive line and excel. Cash led the offensive line in dropback protections giving up the fewest sacks per pass sets.”
Tabor Garcia (junior) and Bennitt Hayes (sophomore) earned second-team honors.
Garcia earned secondteam defensive line. He finished league with six tackles, four assists, and one sack.
“Tabor played the weak
side defensive end position and led the team with quarterback pressures from that spot,” said Hudson. “Tabor was moved to the defensive line from the weak linebacker position this year and thrived with the change of scenery. His strength and quick first step made him a handful for many linemen in the league.”
Hayes was selected second-team defensive back. He recorded six tackles and three assists.
“Bennitt stepped into the defensive back role this year after some injuries had us light in that position,” said Hudson. “He took the opportunity and ran with it becoming a lockdown defender. He has a strong ability to track the ball in the air and finds himself in the right position consistently. Being only a sophomore his future is very bright.”
Several players earned honorable mention, including seniors Parker Larrabee, Jozua Miller, Hunter Bronson, juniors Kayden Morris and Atom Fetteroff,and sophomore Tyler Johns on.
Larrabee and Jozua Miller both earned honorable mention defensive line. Larrabee recorded eight tackles, and 11 assists, and Miller tallied nine tackles and five assists.
“Parker was a transfer student this year and made an immediate impact on the defensive line,” said Hudson. “Parker has the ability to play both on the inside and defensive tackle and outside at defensive end. Being able to move him around freely really opened up the front schemes we could run on defense.”
“Jozua was late to playing this season because of an injury sustained during wrestling,” said Hudson. “But, when he was able to play, the impact was felt immediately. Jozua plays in the middle of the defensive line and is the definition of run stopper.
Jozua’s ability to take on multiple blockers to allow the linebackers to make plays was key to the defense.” Bronson was honorable mention quarterback. He was 42-68 passing for 467 yards and six touchdowns. He also had 34 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
“Hunter had a strong senior season, and while his numbers in the air were down from last year, he made up for it on the ground. He was a constant leader both on and off the field. He was always pushing his teammates to achieve their best at all times.”
Johnson (sophomore) and Kayden Morris (junior) were both honorable mention linebacker. Johnson recorded 20 tackles, 10 assists, two sacks, and one fumble recovery, and Morris tallied 12 tackles, five assists, and one pick.
“Tyler played weak linebacker for us this year and had an amazing year at the position,” said Hudson. “He is very fast to read blockers and react downhill or into his pass drop, always finding the right area to be in. Tyler will play a major role on the defense next year.
“Kayden played at outside linebacker and was one of the leading tacklers on the defense,” said Hudson. “He has a very high motor and his ability to play in the open field made him stand out. Kayden led the team early in the season in tackles and interceptions.”
Fetteroff earned honorable-mention defensive back. He recorded 14 tackles and five assists.
“Atom played at outside linebacker and safety,” said Hudson. “Atom has very good reaction speed and is a great coverage linebacker. Playing on the weak side of the defense he would find himself in coverage most plays and would shutdown any short passing game his direction.”
CEC accepting applications for Wash., D.C. Youth Tour
Central Electric Cooperative (CEC) is accepting applications for its 2026 Washington, D.C. Youth Tour program. CEC will select two high school juniors to visit the nation’s capital for oneweek in June. Participants will join hundreds of student leaders from electric cooperatives nationwide to learn about cooperatives’ contributions to rural America, leadership, the political process and interact with elected officials. The trip includes visits to the nation’s capital and other notable sites, such as Arlington National Cemetery, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Washington Monument, Mount Vernon, and the Smithsonian.
High school juniors interested in applying can find the application at https://www. cec.coop/in-your-community/ youth-tour/. Applications will be accepted through Friday, January 9, 2026, at 5 p.m. and can be completed online, mailed, or dropped off at any CEC office.
To be eligible, students’ families must be CEC members. Applicants must include information about their interests and a 500–1,000 word essay on the following topic: “What is the greatest issue facing your community, and how can you be a part of the solution?” Applicants will participate in an interview conducted by a committee comprised of CEC employees.
The Youth Tour is an all-expense paid trip. The selected students will share their trip experience with CEC’s membership at the coop’s annual meeting in April 2027. For more information, https://www.cec.coop/in-yourcommunity/youth-tour/ or call 541-548-2144.
Volleyball team names all-league selections
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Lady Outlaws volleyball squad went a perfect 17-0 in league play, with just eight players on their roster. Six of the eight were named to all-league teams, including senior Audrey Sybesma and junior Paityn Cotner, who earned first-team allleague honors.
Sybesma was a right side hitter and finished league play with 227 kills to lead the Outlaws. She also recorded digs and 43 blocks.
“Audrey is a player who wants it so bad she puts in as much work as she can for the success of the team,” said Coach Mahryahna Callegari. “She was the heart of our team, and one of our captains that really took that role to another level as she was a mentor and a shoulder to lean on to the younger girls. She’s a dynamic hitter, can hit any spot, and reads the block well. She has one of the best blocks in all of 3A and is known as being our ‘roof.’”
Paityn Cotner was the Outlaws floor captain and setter and ran a 5-1 offense the entire season. She recorded assists, 222 digs, 42 aces, and four blocks.
“Paityn is such a gem,” said Callegari. “I’ve never seen a player so dedicated to work through every injury and she never missed a rep. She is one of the most remarkable kids I’ve ever coached. At the start of the season she was a good setter but by the end of the season, after all the time and reps, she grew to be the best setter in our league. Nine times out of 10 on a bad pass she put up a perfect set. She had under 10 errors on over 2,000 sets the entire season. Her award and stats show that as well. Paityn had the most votes out of any player submitted for All-league. She is very versatile. Not only
does she have amazing hands and technique as a setter, but she plays great defense, can block, and can hit.”
Three players were second-team all-league picks: senior Malia Hernandez, junior Alli Fogerty, and freshman Maici Cotner.
Hernandez, a team captain, finished with 131 kills, 297 digs, 51 aces, and five blocks.
“Malia is someone who leads by example,” said Callegari. “She came to us from Trinity hoping to find something more than volleyball and with that she found her love for the game. She was a versatile player, and moved from DS (defensive specialist) to middle to an outside hitter and did all positions so effectively. She had to learn how to be a ‘shock’ hitter because she was smaller, but man was she effective.”
Fogerty led the defense with 352 digs, and also tallied 72 assists and 48 aces. In addition to second-team honors she was named Defensive Player of the Year.
“Alli is a perfectionist and you see it in her work in the gym,” said Callegari. “She was on a mission this season to prove her role as a DS libero. It wasn’t until she earned the Defensive Player of the Year Award that she finally believed it was true — she didn’t realize how good she was until then. She has the best coverage on defense I’ve ever seen.”
Maici Cotner rounds out the second-team all-leaguers. She recorded 180 kills, 229 digs, 33 aces, and 11 blocks in league play.
“Maici has been so special this year — to watch her grow from day one open gym to an outstanding state performance was incredible and gives me goose bumps to talk about it,” said Callegari. “She’s worked so hard and faced a lot of challenges with grace and determination.
Her determination to get better was for the purpose of helping her team, not for her own accolades. She has a very powerful swing, and is probably the hardest hitter on our team. She grew to be able to hit very difficult shots and that’s what made her so strong against our opponents.”
Brooke Lindsay, junior, earned honorable mention. She recorded 106 kills, 40 digs, 36 blocks, and 10 aces.
“Brooke is one of the most hard-working kids I’ve met and she does everything with a smile and that’s special because that’s not
something you always find. She would be having the roughest practice of her season and would still be smiling and encouraging everyone else. She’s known as the team’s biggest cheerleader. She grew from tipping the ball in the beginning of the season into a hard hitter than could hit the 10-foot line.”
Although votes were limited, Callegari told The Nugget that her two other players, Emma Long and Shanitah Few were worthy of an award, and stated that their stats were better than others who did get awards.
Sisters can have a say in state resiliency plan
By Shaanth Nanguneri Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregonians may soon have greater input in how the next statewide budget seeks to mitigate natural disasters.
Gov. Tina Kotek on Wednesday, along with Oregon State University’s Oregon Climate Change Research Institute and the University of Oregon’s Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience, launched the first of nine online public meetings of the “Statewide Resilience Forum,” with the goal of collecting feedback on how the state should prepare for wildfires, floods, earthquakes and all manner of natural disasters.
The feedback will inform a “Plan for a Resilient Oregon” slated to be done by September 2026 and disaster preparation funding priorities for the state’s next two-year budget. The next meeting is on Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. Register for the zoom meeting here: https://bit.ly/resiliency11-19.
“Oregonians don’t need another plan that sits on a shelf. They need real investment in what makes their communities stronger,” Kotek said in a statement.
“The intention behind the Plan for a Resilient Oregon is to hear directly from the people living these challenges every day and to act on what they tell us.”
Beyond inviting the public to participate, Kotek’s office split the state into five regions and selected more than 50 community-based organizations to represent each, and to attend meetings and collect and share feedback from residents. Regional leads for each part of the state will present that feedback at statewide meetings. The groups have experience in issues such as food access, immigrant rights, fire safety, and toxic waste prevention.
Attendees at Wednesday’s meeting reviewed other states’ natural disaster preparedness plans, which prioritized equity and environmental justice, solutions like wetland restoration, infrastructure modernization, cli mate hazards and community engagement,, according to agenda notes.
The virtual meetings offer what Kotek’s office described as a “people-centered,
resilience and multi-hazard strategy” to help Oregon communities thrive despite increasingly severe weather events.
Between 1980 and 2024, Oregon experienced more than 40 “billion-dollar weather and climate disasters” according to National Centers for Environmental Information data. They include droughts, floods, wildfires, and a few winter storm events. This year, for instance, Kotek declared a state of emergency in midJuly over threats from wildfires posed by “extreme high temperatures.”
“The 2020 fires taught us that recovery starts and ends at the local level, but it can’t succeed without strong state partnerships,” said Matthew Havniear, executive director of the Jackson County Community Long-Term Recovery Group, which supports survivors of the 2020 Labor Day fires. Havniear is also representing southern Oregon in the state’s resiliency planning. “For organizations like ours, this plan reinforces local leadership, builds capacity, and emphasizes collaboration and coordination.”
Republished under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, courtesy https://oregoncapital chronicle.com.
ASPIRE program needs mentors
By Olivia Nieto Columnist
As a high schooler, one of my main goals is to leave with a sense of preparation for the years ahead of me. Thanks to a program called ASPIRE, I can achieve this goal and more with the support of my community.
ASPIRE is a statewide program that aids Oregon students in becoming college and career ready with the support of local mentors. These mentors are able to walk alongside junior and senior students in oneon-one monthly meetings, getting to know them and exploring different paths that they want to pursue in higher education.
The Sisters High School ASPIRE program, spearheaded by Dana Charpentier, currently has 19 volunteer mentors but is aiming to increase their numbers to 30 by November 27.
“You’re their mentor from junior to senior year,
which is exciting because you get to be side by side with them over those two years as they grow and explore,” said Charpentier.
Mentors aren’t required to have any college education, nor any experience in applying to colleges or scholarships. The biggest qualification is the desire to work with high school students and get to know them as they figure out their posthigh school trajectory.
The relationship formed between an ASPIRE mentor and student benefits both parties, because the student walks away with a better grasp on their goals and the mentor leaves with a deeper understanding of career and college readiness. This could prove to be especially beneficial to mentors who have kids of their own who will one day have to embark on the post-high-school planning process.
“I know that I’ve definitely gained a lot of perspective on what this stage of life will look like with my
own kids,” said Charpentier. Post-high-school options look vastly different today than they did 20 years ago, so being able to walk through the process before experiencing it for the first time with your children can prove to be extremely helpful.
In addition, the schedule of an ASPIRE mentor is flexible and based on the mentor’s availability. They typically meet with their students about once a month, and with the team of mentors bi-monthly. After starting the beginning of 2025 with only two volunteer mentors, the number has increased by over a dozen and has aspirations to continue its growth in order to support the new students joining the program.
If you’re interested in becoming an ASPIRE mentor, email Dana Charpentier at dana.charpentier@ssd6. org or call the Sisters High School office at 541-5494045 and request her extension of 5719.
Young entrepreneur provides peace of mind in home care
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
For most people their home is their number one asset. With the median home price in Deschutes County now over $700,000 and 30 percent of all homes in Sisters Country valued at more than $1 million, Kale Gardner founded GB Homeowner Care.
The firm is dedicated to helping homeowners in Central Oregon maintain and protect their most valuable investment. With plans starting at $99 per month, GB offers 24/7 on-call support and peace-of-mind care for routine maintenance, small repairs, and emergency situations.
From replacing furnace filters and smoke alarms to patching drywall to landscaping, their team promises reliable, affordable assistance whenever needed.
Gardner’s youthful energy has been transformed into an intense commitment necessary for a business on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
When The Nugget sat down with Gardner, we asked him what differentiates him from others in the business. “Dedicated homeowner support,” he replied. “Every client has a single point of contact who knows their home, their preferences, and their priorities.
“We don’t wait for issues to arise; we anticipate them. Our scheduled checks and preventative measures reduce unexpected repairs and
extend the life of key systems. We partner exclusively with proven, reliable professionals, ensuring consistent quality and accountability for every job.
“No two homes are the same,” he said. “We create bespoke care plans that align with each property’s age, layout, materials, and usage patterns. When something does require attention, we act quickly and keep homeowners fully informed at every step.”
Their maintenance and repair services cover a wide range of tasks including plumbing and electrical fixes, painting, drywall repair, furniture assembly, and more.
The weekly property checks they make ensure the safety and maintenance of the property. During these checks, they assess the condition of the building, inspect for any potential issues, and confirm that all systems are functioning properly.
“Regular inspections prevent costly repairs and maintain the overall value of your home,” Gardner said.
The Nugget asked him what value proposition GB brings to the table. He answered without hesitation: “The true value of our service lies in the peace of mind we provide. Clients know their home is being looked after with the same level of care and diligence they would give themselves, often better. With GB Homeowner Care, they gain security, confidence, and the freedom to enjoy their home without the worry
of ongoing maintenance or unexpected issues.”
Gardner went to work immediately after graduation from Sisters High School to obtain his CCB license from the Oregon Contractors Board. His entire life has been around construction and home building at the highest level.
His father runs Gardner Contracting LLC, in known for its prestigious projects such as R&B Ranch, a $20
million property on the border of Sisters.
GB Homeowner Care has found a ready market at Black Butte Ranch where some 85 percent of the 1,200 highvalue homes are only occupied seasonally leaving them vulnerable to damage.
He has clients around Central Oregon including Eagle Crest Resort and has his sights set on Sunriver Resorts with its 4,000 plus properties, most seasonal.
Gardner himself is the one who answers the phone. You can reach him at 541-7971717 or email him at info@ gbhomecare.com to discuss your needs.
Kale Gardner has launched GB Homeowner Care in Sisters.
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
COMM UN IT Y AN NOUNCE ME NTS
SIST ER S COMM UN IT Y FOOD RE SOURCE S
Free Lu nches for Seniors For t hose 6 0+, t he Cou nc il
on A ging of C entra l O regon
o er s a f un, no-cost soc ia l
lu nc h e ver y Tuesd ay, 11
a.m . to 1 p.m . at Sisters
Commun it y C hu rc h, 130 0 W. McK en zie Hwy. No
reserv at ion s needed . No-cost
Grab-N -G o lunche s t ake place
week ly on Wed ne sd ay a nd u rsday, f rom 12:3 0 to 1 p. m . Cal l 5 41-797-9367.
Week ly Food Pa nt ry
COR E M arket , loc ated at 22 2 N. Trinit y Way i n Sisters
Ma rket h ou r s a re Mondays , 1 to 2 p.m . I nfo: 5 41-5882332
Ca mp Sher ma n Holiday Bazaar
A festive c om mu nit y gat heri ng at t he Camp S herm an
Commun it y H al l Friday a nd Satu rd ay, December 5 a nd
6 , w it h w reat hs , c ra s , a nd
good ies for s ale. Friday hou rs are 5 to 8 p.m.; Sat urday hou rs are 10 a .m . to 3 p.m . ere w il l be soup a nd hot d rink s Friday night , a nd Sat urday t here w il l be c o ee d rinks, scone s , a nd
good ies . A hol id ay t radition you won’t w ant to m iss! For more in form at ion c al l 5 41-595 -2719.
SIST ER S LI B RY EV EN TS
Fa mily Stor y Ti me
Wednesday, November 19, 10:3 0 –11 a .m . Sisters
Librar y - Com mu nity Room . I nter ac tive s tory time w it h books , son gs , a nd rhymes! 0 -5 y rs
Thrive Cent ra l Oregon
Drop -I n Consultations Fr id ay, November 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m . Sisters L ibra r ySt udy R oom . D rop-i n soc ia l serv ice s a ssista nce t hat connec t s you w it h resou rces Connec t a nd get help w it h housing l ists, med ic a l access , ment a l hea lt h resou rces , vetera n s ser vices , soc ia l securit y application s , a nd muc h more . r ive Central Oregon s ta help you navigate t he comple x for ms , websites, a nd w aitl ists needed to acces s t hese resources . A l l appoi nt ment s are r st-come r st-ser ved and l ast for 3 0 m inutes
To set up a remote phone appointment c al l 5 41782-10 2 2 or ema i l i nfo@ thrivecent ra loregon.org. For more i nfor mation v isit: www.t hr ivecentraloregon org.
Fa mily Stor y Ti me
Wednesday, December 3 , 10 :3 0 a .m .–11 a .m . Sisters
Librar y - Com mu nity
Room . I nter ac tive s tory time w it h books , son gs , a nd rhymes! 0 -5 y rs
Free Week ly Meal Serv ice
Famil y K itchen hos t s a weekly to -go hot mea l on Tuesd ay s, 4:30 to 5:3 0 p.m. , at Sisters
Commun it y C hu rc h, 130 0 W Mc Kenzie Hwy. I nfo: www
Fami lyKitc hen.org.
Free Pet Food
Need pet food for you r dog or cat? Cal l t he Furr y Friends pet food ban k at 5 41-797-4 02 3 to schedu le you r pic kup. L oc ated at 412 E . M ai n Ave., Ste. 4, behind e Nug get.
Kiwa nis Food Ba nk
Located at 382 W. M ai n Ave . Weekly d istr ibut ion i s u rsday s f rom 9 a .m . to 2 p.m . I nfo: 5 41-632 -3 663.
Livi ng Well With Dement ia Sisters Suppor t Groups
Livi ng Wel l o ers a suppo rt group for t he c are partners and f amil y of t hose d iagnosed wit h some for m of dementi a, and now o ers a new E arly
St age Suppor t Group. B ot h groups meet t he 2nd a nd 4th
Wednesday of t he month
from 1 to 2:3 0 p.m . at Sisters
Pa rk & R ec reat ion D istr ic t
Commun it y Center. e E arly
St age Suppor t Group meets i n t he W hychu s R oom . e
Ca re Partner G roup meet s i n the Metol iu s R oom . For more in form at ion c al l 5 41-588 -0547.
Serv ing ou r Seniors (SOS)
Listen ing Sessions
SOS i s hosting a f ree
commun it y l isten ing session at e Hub, 291 E . M ai n Avenue,
Si sters, on November 19, at 2:30
p. m . e xploring how to b e er suppor t sen ior s w ho w ant to rema i n i n t hei r homes a s t hey age. Sen iors , adu lt c hi ld ren of senior s , c areg ivers , a nd others welcome.
COIC/WorkSou rce & ODHS Mobi le Serv ices e Centra l O regon Intergover nmenta l Cou nc il
(COIC)/WorkSou rce Mobile
Employ ment R esou rce Van wi l l be partner ing w it h t he Oregon Department of Hum an Serv ice s (ODHS) mobile unit to provide ser vice s at t he Si sters Com mu nit y Center on November 2 5 , 1 to 4 p. m . o er ing f ree job sea rc h as sist ance, rés umé s upport , interv ie w prepa ration, a nd acces s to online employment tool s . Stop b y to c on nect wit h employment spe cial ists who c a n help you e xplore ca reer oppor tunities , t ra ining prog ra ms , a nd other wor kforce resources . A longside t he employ ment v an, t he ODH S mobi le u nit w il l be onsite to help i nd iv idua l s a nd f amilies apply for ben e t s , i ssue E BT ca rd s , a nd provide s uppor t w it h ot her ODH S ser vices.
Honey Bees & Brews
Mont hly social gat heri ng at new location, L az y Z R anch, 6 85 40 E H ig hw ay 2 0 ,on u rsday, November 2 0, at 5 p.m . A ll beekeepers a nd w anabees
welcome. F or more i nfo: C lyde, 458-20 6- 8470
Sisters Commun it y Thanksgivi ng Dinner a nk sg iv ing Day 12:3 0– 4 p. m.
Di ne i n, c arr y out , a nd del iver y too! Free of c ha rge. Don at ions gl ad ly accepted . Sisters
Commun it y C hu rc h, 130 0 W
Mc Kenzie Hwy. To volunteer, te x t Der i Fra zee 5 41-4191279. To don ate, t ex t Jen ni fer
Know les-Seher 5 41-390 -459 7 or ema i l jen ni fer.g. seher@ gm ail.com.
Week ly Commun it y Meditation
Mond ay s 5:3 0- 6:3 0 p.m .; no c ha rge . Ten m inute s of st retc hing a nd breat hwork, followed by a 2 0-mi nute gu ided med it at ion session a nd a 2 0-mi nute silent med it at ion session . I ns pi re Dance a nd
Fitnes s Studio, 592 N. Sisters
Pa rk Ct., Ste . B . I nfo: Bon nie Rose, 5 41-3 06 -332 0.
Nu rture and Grow
Pa renti ng Work shops
Cu lt ivat ing Stronger
Families , One Day at a T ime, a t ra nsform at ive t hree-par t work shop empower ing parents wit h pract ic a l tools , i nsig ht s, and con dence to s trengt hen connec tion a nd build f ami ly resi lience. Tuesd ay s , 5:3 0 to 6 .3 0 p.m . P resented by Dr. K el ly Dav i s M arti n of Grow t h R ing s Famil y erapy
December 2 “Connec tion
Before C or rect ion;” December 9 “Pl anting Hea lt hy R oots;” December 16 “ Nu rturing the Parent.” Free . Co ee and te a provided . 19 2 E
Mai n Ave. I nfo: www Grow th Ri ngsFami ly erapy com or c al l 5 41-6 68 -5238. Mont hly Song wr iters’ Sharing Ci rcle
B e i n a c reat ive com mu nity and be i ns pi red w hile sha ri ng songs, bei ng a g reat l istener, and providing feedback . Second
Su nd ay of t he month, 6 to 8 p. m., ups ta ir s i n t he Sisters A rt
Work s bui ld ing (accessible by ch ai r l i ), 2 0 4 W. A da m s Ave.
Free. I nfo: cal l/te x t 5 41-9 778494
Ba ha’i Fa it h
Cent ra l Oregon Federated Republ ican Meet ing COFRW (Cent ra l O regon
Federated R epublica n Women)
meet s t he r st u rsday of ever y mont h f rom 10:45 a .m (reg istrat ion) to 1 p.m . at
As pen L ake s G ol f C lub i n
Si sters . Come lea r n f rom g uest spea kers, a nd hea r a nd quest ion loca l a nd state c andidate s. Meet ing s i nc lude lunc h for $ 27
RS V P requi red to a end . L ea rn more about upcom ing meeti ngs and s peakers, a nd R SV P at COFRWB end@gm ail.com
Intergenerationa l Commun it y Connec tions People of a l l age s a nd fa it h s i nv ited for F riends , Families , Food, a nd Fun ac tivities . E xplore rou ndtable conversation s on s pi ritu al va lue s t hat bring people together i n ou r d iv ided world
e Epi scopa l C hu rc h of t he
Tran s g urat ion, 121 Brook s
Ca mp R d., e ver y second Friday of t he month, 4 – 6 p.m . 5 41549-70 87
Hold the Li ne - Mom’s
Spaghett i Night
Hear ty, homemade, a nd pay what you c a n for s paghe i a nd caesa r sal ad . Helpi ng t hose w ho are losing or seeing a pau se i n SNA P bene t s . E njoy w ar mt h, good food a nd no judgment.
November 21, at 4 p.m
Luckey s Wood sma n Tra i l Side Kitc hen , 352 E Hood Ave. I f you need a mea l, d in ner’s on u s. I f you c a n g ive, you r plate helps feed som eone else.
Amer ican Legion and VF W VF W Post 8138 a nd A merica n Le gion Post 8 6 meet t he r st Wednesday of eac h month at 6 :3 0 p.m. , at e Hub, 291 E . M ai n Ave. E ma il sister sveteran s@gm ail.com for in form at ion.
For i nfor mation, devot ions, study g roups, etc ., cont ac t S hauna R ocha 5 41-6 47-982 6 • www.bah ai .org www.bah ai .u s • www.bah aiteac hi ng s.org Chapel in the Pi nes
Ca mp S herma n • 5 41-815 -9153
10 a .m . Sunday Wor sh ip
e Church of Jesu s Chri st of La er-Day Saints
452 Trinit y Way • Bra nc h P resident , 5
8:3 0 a .m . E cu menica l Sunday Wor sh ip 10 :15 a .m . Epi scopa l Sunday Wor sh ip
e Rest ing Place meet ing at Sisters Com mu nit y C hu rc
Save the Rubberba nd s Bu si ne s s owners: I f you receive a bundle of Nug get s eac h week , t hose f at r ubberbands are h ig hly v alued by e Nuggeteers t hat bundle you r paper s eac h week . I f you c an save t hem, we’ d love to u se them a ga in
Biofield Tuning practice opens in Sisters
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
Jillian Faldmo understands that “we are electric beings.” The body is an electrical system, composed of electrolytes, conducting currents, and surrounded by an electromagnetic field.
Faldmo practices Biofield Tuning to improve the flow and function of the body, which in turn can reduce stress and improve a sense of vitality, clarity, and resilience.
“I use tuning forks on and around peoples’ bodies and help them change the way they respond to stress,” she explained. “We’re working with frequency and vibration.”
Faldmo has just opened a practice at Sisters Wellness Collective, at 392 E. Main Ave. The practice is new, but Faldmo is not new to the practice. She’s been working with Biofield Tuning for the past decade, in tandem with a business and life coaching practice that focuses on helping other wellness practitioners grow.
“I’ve been practicing in Sisters for the past four years, but I have just opened the full-time space in October,” she said.
Faldmo hails from Vermont, where she was a registered nurse.
“I was exploring holistic nursing,” she said.
In that exploration, she found Biofield Tuning as originated by Eileen McKusick, known as a researcher, writer, inventor, practitioner, educator, and speaker in the fields of therapeutic sound, the human biofield, and electric health.
“I thought it was going to be airy-fairy, but it was a really grounded technique,” Faldmo said.
Biofield Tuning, as Faldmo describes it, is “a gentle approach.” The client lies fully clothed on a massage table for a 60-minute session while Faldmo operates the tuning forks on and around them.
“You’re listening for where is the tone not full and bright,” she said.
She then focuses in on those areas.
“I like to call it a targeted nervous system regulation,” she said.
She considers Biofield Tuning a missing piece of “really tuning in to the body,” allowing the body to relax and digest emotions and trauma.
The goal is to “resolve areas of conscious tension,” leaving the client “lighter, clearer and more of themselves, which I think is a really key part of this work,” she said.
Faldmo says that people can feel a sense of tingling or vibration, and of relaxation of tension.
“Emotions can come up,” she said. “Different thoughts and memories can come up in a session.”
The life and business coaching and the Biofield Tuning are separate practices, but they can work in tandem.
“I was doing them separately,” Faldmo said. “I knew on an intuitive level that they could be connected.”
With her focus on helping other practitioners grow their practices, she focuses heavily in that area on mindset work.
“You can think your way through things, but if you’re not fully aligned with your goals, if you’re not really emotionally behind your goals, it’s going to be really hard to get there,” she said.
Faldmo typically recommends three Biofield
I’ve
Museum announces environmental prize
The High Desert Museum has announced the Schnitzer Prize of the West, an inaugural initiative launched in close partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.
The new Prize—the first of its kind in the region— will award $50,000 annually to an individual or a small group of individuals whose work addresses environmental and conservation challenges of the American West, with a particular focus on honoring innovation, social impact, and uncommon collaboration. The open call for self- and third-party nominations runs on the High Desert Museum’s website through January 1, 2026.
— Jillian Faldmo
Tuning sessions.
“The results are often sustained,” she said.
After that, periodic visits can keep things maintained — much like getting a tuneup for your car’s engine.
“The human body is no different — you need a tuneup every now and then,” she said.
For more information or to schedule a session, email Faldmo at me@jillianfaldmo. com or call 541-314-8347. More info may be found at www.jillianfaldmo.com.
In a moment when the American West — and the world-at-large — is confronting unprecedented ecological challenges, the Prize seeks to highlight innovative responses to urgent issues such as water scarcity, tribal rights and sovereignty, landstewardship, changing climate, and more—offering models that can be replicated in other areas of the country facing similar pressures.
Since its founding in 1982, the High Desert Museum has been dedicated to sharing the stories of the High Desert through wildlife, art, cultures, history, and interdisciplinary experiences, creating a shared connection and dialogue among its community.
The Prize builds on this commitment to conservation and on past initiatives such as the Earle A. Chiles Award—which recognized significant “Win-Win” contributions to managing the High Desert region’s natural resources—as well as the Museum’s partnership with lifelong Portland resident and West Coast businessman Jordan D. Schnitzer, a dedicated steward of the local community and the region’s advancement.
“The Schnitzer Prize of the West is an exceedingly timely and relevant effort to shine a light on the innovators, collaborators and visionaries among us,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D, executive director of High Desert Museum. “Their work demonstrates that we can look toward our future together even as we consider the economic and ecological challenges before us.”
“The Schnitzer Prize celebrates remarkable individuals and teams, who through their uncommon collaborations, are producing actionable solutions to the legacy challenges we face in the West,” said Jordan D. Schnitzer, president of Schnitzer Properties and The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.
Administered through the High Desert Museum, Prize nominations and applications will be evaluated by an
See PRIZE on page 12
Jillian Faldmo has opened a Biofield Tuning practice at Sisters Wellness Collective.
PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS
Sisters gears up for holiday events
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
It’s that most wonderful time of the year. Churches and civic organizations and shopkeepers are readying for a string of events to welcome the giving season.
Sisters Community Church will hold its annual Thanksgiving Dinner on turkey day with a free hot meal that can be family-style dining or takeout or even delivery for those with mobility limitations.
It happens between 12:30 and 4 p.m. at the church —1300 W. McKenzie Highway. For more information, call 541-419-1279.
The day after Thanksgiving is the SPRD Holiday Palooza. The cherished event will kick off with the parade at 3:30 p.m. down Main Street and culminate with music and holiday activities, including the tree lighting ceremony at Fir Street Park. Between 4:15 and 5:30 p.m. there are kids activities: Santa, crafts, hot chocolate, and the Letter to Santa drop-off. Go here to get your letter going: https:// sistersrecreation.com/wpcontent/uploads/2022/11/ Santa-Letter.pdf.
Then at 5 p.m. is the tree
PRIZE: Winner of new award will be announced in 2026
from page 11
esteemed panel of advisors comprised of former tribal leaders, ranchers and farmers, water policy and river restoration practitioners, a poet laureate and renowned historian, directors of prominent academic centers that focus on the study of the American West and more. To learn more about this dynamic group, visit the High Desert Museum website.
The Prize is now accepting nominations, and selected nominees will be invited to submit a formal application in early 2026. Nominations not selected in this inaugural cycle will automatically carry over for two forthcoming cycles. The prize winner will be announced in the spring of 2026. In addition to the $50,000 cash prize, the winner will also receive a unique piece of art during an award ceremony in Portland, Oregon.
For more information on the Schnitzer Prize of the West, nomination eligibility, and selection process, please visit highdesertmuseum.org/ schnitzer-prize.
lighting ceremony that is a Sisters must, and brings families from many miles to witness small town living at its best.
Christmas Day is the annual Christmas Dinner at the fire station from 1 to 3 p.m. The cooking crew starts early under Captain Liming’s leadership preparing an amazing meal serving over 100 people in the Fire District’s Community Hall.
Sist ers-Area Events & Ent er tainment
In addition to those served in person, staff and volunteers prepare many to-go dinners. Don’t miss the third annual fa-la-la-along singalong sponsored by C4C. There are two openings to belt out your favorite tunes: December 6 from noon to 1:15 at The Barn, or December 19 between 4 and 5 p.m. at The Lodge in Sisters. Can’t carry a tune in a bucket? No problem. Local
musicians Scott Crabtree, Justin Little, and Kari Kriser will be there to keep you on time and on key. The Three Sisters Lions Club will hold its 14th annual Holiday Faire from November through December 20 at its new location: 282 S. Cedar St. (behind High Camp Tap House). Hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays
WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 19
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, NOVEMBER 20
Luckey's Woodsman Trivia: Megan's Thanksgiving Trivia 5:30 p.m. Info: luckeyswoodsman.com.
Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Louisa Morgan presents "The Faerie Morgana," the story of Morgan Le Fay, one of the most enigmatic and powerful women in Arthurian legend. 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
Lazy Z Ranch Wines Guided Sip & Sketch 4 p.m. to sunset. Free. Create art at a special version of our daily Sip & Sketch, guided by local artist Sloane Earl. Bring a sketchbook; props/pencils provided All levels welcome Info: @LazyZRanch, 68540 US-20.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
The Belfr y Live Music: "Just Duets: An Evening of Acoustic Duos" 7 p.m. Intimate performances featuring: Dennis McGregor & Beth Wood, Vern Johnson & Benji Nagel, Faddis & Adkins, and True North Duo (Kristen Grainger & Dan Wetzel) Tickets, BendTicket.com.
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 22
The Belfr y Live Music: Thunderstorm Artis 7 p.m. Soaring vocals meet dextrous, layered guitar and intimate storytelling Tickets, BendTicket.com.
SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 23
Sisters Fire Hall Fireside Series: "The History and Culture of the Wadatika Band of Northern Paiutes" by Dr Diane L. Teeman, an Indigenous archaeologist and traditional practitioner of Northern Paiute culture. She will share an overview of Northern Great Basin culture and history Presented by Three Sisters Historical Society. 2 p.m., doors open at 1 p.m. $10 at the door Info: 541-610-6323
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Play Scrabble socialize, and drink cof fee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • NOVEMBER 25
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 26
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 7 to 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Downtown Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Galleries and shops feature art and demonstrations. Information: www.sistersarts.org.
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 29
Main Ave. & Fir Street Park Holiday Palooza & Parade Annual Christmas parade on Main Avenue at 3:30 p.m. followed by the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at Fir Street Park. Sponsored by Sisters Park & Recreation District. Info: www.sistersrecreation.com.
Faith Hope Charity Holiday Marketplace at the Vineyard 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr , Terrebonne. Info: www.faithhopeandcharityevents .com.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tree hunting is already underway. From November 13, you can cut your own tree in the Deschutes National Forest for only $5 per tree. You can get your permit at the Sisters Ranger Station during normal hours but it’s much easier to order online at https://www.recreation.gov/ tree-permits/b8d732af-ec5511ea-b83f-6e0e43d29f74/ order.
SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 30
The Barn in Sisters Holiday Market featuring 20+ artists and makers.
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.
Faith Hope Charity Holiday Marketplace at the Vineyard 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr , Terrebonne. Info: www.faithhopeandcharityevents .com.
Luckey’s Woodsman Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Starting at 5:30 p.m. Bring an ornament for our tree or rock your ugliest sweater and get 10% off food and drink! Photos with Santa, Hodag, and the gang; enjoy live music, festive sing-alongs, and holiday cheer. Tree permits available on-site. Info: luckeyswoodsman.com.
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink cof fee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
MONDAY • DECEMBER 1
Paulina Springs Books Poetr y Gathering "The Pause Button," an informal monthly gathering for poets and poetry enthusiasts. Bring a poem or two to share. Listen, discuss, and write. Free. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. More info at www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 3
Sisters Movie House Autumn Arts & Adventure: "Steve Schapiro: Being Everywhere" 6:15 p.m. Info/tickets at www.sistersmoviehouse.com.
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
THURSDAY • DECEMBER 4
Three Creeks Brew Pub Hoodoo Wintervention 6 to 8 p.m. Thousands in prizes including lift tickets, gear, skis, boards, and more. Info: www.hoodoo.com.
Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Kathy Watston presents "Orphans of the Living," a story following the Stovall family’s early 20th-century quest for home and redemption as they confront racism, poverty, and inequality across the American South and West. 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
FRIDAY • DECEMBER 5
The Belfr y Dance Party: DJ Dance Party 7 p.m. DJ Fake and DJ Sorski bring an open container of sound and movement where all are welcome Light show by Aaron Moore Tickets, BendTicket.com.
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SUNDAY • DECEMBER 7
The Barn in Sisters Holiday Market featuring 20+ artists and makers. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink cof fee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • DECEMBER 9
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 10
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill
Karaoke 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
FRIDAY • DECEMBER 12
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
‘Bingo Buddies’ group hosts veterans
A group of local Sisters citizens showed up Friday night, November 7, to honor our local veterans and to contribute to the programs which support them. The Bingo Buddies at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration reached out to local veterans inviting them for a night of discounted bingo play, along with a free meal, beverage, and dessert.
Fifteen local veterans from all different branches were present. The executive director of COVO ( Central Oregon Veterans Outreach),
J.W. Terry, gave a talk. Terry spent more than 30 years in the service, and is a Vietnam veteran. COVO has provided veterans with 22 Tiny Home cabins in what is called
PONDEROO: Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday
Continued from page 3
and discounted weekend passes will be available for $90 for youth ages 13 to 17. Ticket prices include all fees for maximum transparency.
The initial festival lineup includes The California Honeydrops, Mountain Grass Unit, Big Richard, The Rumble featuring Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr., Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Damn Tall Buildings, and Broken Compass Bluegrass, with several exciting lineup announcements planned for early 2026.
Designed for music lovers of all ages, the event blends fantastic live performances with hands-on art activities, kid friendly spaces, and a laid-back, community setting in the heart of Sisters.
Single-day tickets will be released after the performance schedule is
Veterans Village in nearby Bend. Veterans Village provides immediate help for housing, health services, and case management. There are shared living spaces for the veterans along with hope for the future. $335 raised by Friday’s Bingo Night was donated to the COVO organization.
Of the many veterans who attended, a few shared their experience. Lance Trowbridge, is commander of the local American Legion Post 86, participates in a local organization called Band of Brothers, and is also a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, Post 8138. Other veterans who attended the evening included Dennis Mills, an Annapolis graduate, Rick Tewalt and John Troike who served in the navy, as well as Brigadier General of the National Guard, Jim Cunningham, who served for almost 40 years.
The evening included upbeat military music, jokes told to tease competing branches, and a feeling both of camaraderie and fun.
Mountain Grass Unit will be featured at Big Ponderoo next summer.
PHOTO PROVIDED
J.W. Terry of Central Oregon Veterans Outreach was the guest speaker at a veterans night with The Bingo Buddies at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Sisters veterans gathered at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration for a fun evening of games, jokes and stories.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Suttle Tea celebrates its 10-year anniversary in Sisters
By Lilli Worona Correspondent
As winter approaches in Central Oregon, many of us welcome the cold weather as a time to relish in coziness. A warm sweater, a crackling fire, and a mug of steaming hot tea does wonders to settle frayed nerves or provide comfort during the cold days of winter.
Garth and Kit Tosello, owners of Suttle Tea in Sisters, are passionate about creating artisan teas that enable their customers to fully relax and settle into the calm that only a perfect cup of tea can create. The Tosellos are celebrating the 10-year anniversary of their tea company this month, and are proud of the community they have created and their tea products that promote wellness and sustainability.
Garth Tosello had been involved in small businesses his entire life, and after over two decades of working in the coffee business, he started to think about the possibility of opening a tea shop that could meet the needs of customers looking for an alternative to coffee.
“We’d seen tea kind of tagging along with coffee all those years in the coffee business... but then we started [thinking], what if it was the front runner?” Garth said. “What if the main product was tea and it had the same vibe, the same community connection [as a coffee shop]?”
The Tosellos, who have
lived in Sisters for over 25 years, decided to take the plunge and launched Suttle Tea in 2015, with hopes of creating a health-centered community hub. They designed their tea shop to have a rustic lake theme, creating a relaxed atmosphere where customers could savor their delicious teas and slow down.
Business at Suttle Tea was running smoothly until the pandemic arrived, and wreaked havoc on many local businesses. The Tosellos weathered the storm by pivoting their focus to creating blended loose-leaf teas that their customers could enjoy at home.
“We ended up focusing all on our loose tea and really sourcing loose tea from small farms; direct sourcing,” Garth explained. “We focused on all those teas and herbs and spices right in the shop, right in Sisters... we discovered real quickly that we’re kind of rare, doing this at that quality level and putting teas together that way. . . we’re really the only tea shop in Central Oregon.”
This commitment to directly-sourced, organicgrowing traditions, is at the core of what the Tosellos have created, and a key reason why their teas are so delicious and nourishing. The Tosellos are especially proud of the relationships they have built with Oregon farmers, as well as farmers around the world.
“We have a regenerative farm in Oregon that is now
growing for us… plots of lavender and mint and chamomile, tulsi and echinacea root,” Kit said.
The Tosellos also work directly with small farms in China, India, Japan, and Nepal, to source ingredients that don’t grow in the Pacific Northwest.
“We build relationships with them and [make] sure that these are really clean or organic certified, that they are doing something in their communities, that this helps the farmers. There’s a whole connectivity there, it isn’t just part of a supply chain,” Kit added.
The tea ingredients that the Tosellos procure are then blended in-house at the
Sisters shop, and recipes are constantly being adjusted depending on the differing flavor profiles of the yearly crops they receive. Due to their dedicated focus on the sourcing and quality of their teas, their brand has become increasingly popular over the past several years and is currently shipped all over the U.S.
“We ship all over the country… I think there’s only a couple states we haven’t shipped to now. For example, they’re serving our cardamom maple matcha in Chesapeake, Virginia, and they sell bags of our loose tea at a fancy chocolate shop in Boise,” Kit said.
As for the future, the Tosellos aim to continue
shipping cross country and serving their delicious teas in house, while at the same time growing their brand across Central Oregon. The Tosellos have also recently stocked their Sisters shop with a broad range of tea accessories including tea infusers, mugs, and art, just in time for the holiday season.
The Tosellos are enthusiastic about the tea community they continue to foster in Central Oregon and around the country. The shop itself is a key destination for locals and tourists alike, and will continue to be a mainstay in the Sisters community as Suttle Tea celebrates its 10th year as a bustling small business.
Garth, Kit, and Chelsea Tosello at their tea shop in Sisters, which has now been in operation for a decade.
PHOTO PROVIDED
VETERANS: Day means a great deal to those who
served
Continued from page 3
occasional bursts of applause as the large theater screen behind the stage rolled the names with photo of the dozens of Sisters high alum who went on to serve in the military going back many years.
Numerous of the alumni were known to the students and were greeted with raucous whoops and hollers when scrolled.
Middle schooler Layne Smithers was awarded a $400 check by VFW for his essay. (See”How I Support Patriotism,” this page.)
Patriot’s Pen gives sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students the opportunity to express their opinion on a patriotic theme and improve their writing skills, while they compete for awards and prizes. The awards from all levels of the competition total $1.2 million each year.
The National Association of Secondary School Principals has placed this program on their National Advisory List of Contests for participation. The theme for the Annual VFW Patriot’s Pen Essay this year is “What is Patriotism to Me.”
The Nugget asked Smithers what the inspiration or motivation was to submit the essay.
“The first time I heard about the Patriot’s Pen essay competition was during the 2024 Veterans Day assembly when our school was announcing the winners of the competition,” he said. “This competition had sparked my interest, although I had later heard that our school only hosts it for our eighth-grade students.
“It has always been a constant thought racing through my head, until it was later announced by our language arts teacher that it had started and that we had the option to write and submit an essay, thus turning this thought into a reality.”
When asked about his family history of military service, Smithers said, “I have a long family history of military service, with some being closer, and some more distant. Both my parents are veterans of the Coast Guard, and I have a brother who is preparing to possibly join the Air Force.
“I too am considering joining some sort of military branch, although I am uncertain as to which one to join. From great-grandpas, to possibly my brother, I have a long line of family members that have served in the military, and I hope to one day
follow in their footsteps.”
Hal Darcey a Radioman Petty Officer served from 1963 to 1967 during the Vietnam War era, including time aboard the USS Plunger. He was stationed in Pearl Harbor after boot camp in the Great Lakes, Radio A School in Bainbridge, Maryland, and Submarine School at Groton, Connecticut.
The day meant a great deal to him and he summarized it for all the vets on hand.
“The Sisters schools Veterans Day program was very impressive. There was a level of patriotism that I did not expect. The Sisters school system is clearly respecting our nation and the service of our citizens. I applaud the teachers and administrators for their guidance and support of our military service and veterans. God Bless America and the men and women who served our country,” Darcy said.
From great-grandpas, to possibly my brother, I have a long line of family members that have served in the military, and I hope to one day follow in their footsteps.
— Layne Smithers
How I Support Patriotism
— By Layne Smithers —
As a young American citizen, I have learned that patriotism isn’t just about reciting the pledge of allegiance or singing the national anthem – patriotism is the active commitment to showing respect, gratitude, and appreciation for what we have and what has been given to us by those who protect it. It means supporting my country in every way, from strengthening communities to honoring the values and historical events that make America special.
One way I can support patriotism is by supporting the communities that bring life to America. Whether it’s organizing a donation drive for local veterans, writing thank-you letters to veterans to remind them that their sacrifices will never be forgotten, or writing suggestions on problems in our community, it all points to what America truly stands for: a country that is kind, free, mighty and strong. I can support others, even when they may be wrong. Our freedom comes in many forms, including our opinions, which is one of the greatest gifts of democracy, and showing gratitude towards such is a huge act of patriotism.
I can show patriotism by honoring the history that shaped our nation, and the
sacrifices that secured our freedom. This means learning about events like the American Revolution and the Civil War, not just for school, but to truly value what has been given to us. Understanding the struggles of countless veterans during the wars they fought strengthens my reasons to give back. This will ensure I do not take my citizenship for granted. This respect for our history is a great form of patriotism, as it helps preserve the stories of those who made such a life possible.
Being patriotic is not just pride — it’s action. It’s about caring for our peers and showing gratitude for the ones who built this country. It’s about doing what is right, and standing up for what truly matters. When I volunteer or learn, it is not just a matter of others’ opinions; it is a matter of respect and giving back to this country.
In conclusion, my patriotism is not waiting until I’m old enough to participate fully in democracy, it’s about what I can do right now for our communities, learning about the sacrifices and acts of loyalty that built this country, and encouraging peers to do so as well. These forms of support and gratitude are how I participate in patriotism.
Library director set to retire
Deschutes Public Library Director Todd Dunkelberg announced his plans to retire from his position effective September 2026, concluding a 16-year tenure as director and 26 years with the library system. Dunkelberg made the announcement to the library board during their November 12 meeting, and followed up with a message to library staff the morning of November 13.
“Serving the residents of Deschutes County, and working alongside dynamic staff members dedicated to the same service, has been an honor,” Dunkelberg said. “I am proud of the work we’ve done together, and look forward to watching this vibrant library system continue to grow and serve the community at the highest level.”
Board member Ann Malkin says the board will appoint a recruiting team to begin the search for a new library director. The position is expected to post in January. The new director will overlap with Dunkelberg during a 4-to6-week transition period.
Dunkelberg began as a children’s librarian after graduating from the University of Texas library school. In 1999 he moved to Central Oregon to manage Redmond Library. He was promoted to assistant director in 2002, and hired as library director in 2009.
Sharon Binion, postmaster at the Sisters facility, recalls that when she started here 10 years ago, a heavy day brought some 200 packages. Now, the day after a holiday closure can leave the staff with as many as 5,000 to handle. They handled 3,192 packages on the day after Veterans Day this year.
Binion offered some tips to local postal customers that apply year-round, but become especially important during the holidays.
• Pick up your packages in a timely manner: There is very limited space at the Sisters Post Office, and they cannot hold onto packages very long after notice has been put in P.O. boxes. If a package is not picked up, it will be returned.
“I hate to send stuff back, but we have no choice,” Binion said.
She advises people who will be out of town for more than a few days to stop autoshipments and not to order packages while they are gone.
• Bring your slip to pick up your package. That helps staff locate where the package is within the facility.
• No delivery past gates. The Sisters Post Office only has Highway Contract Routes, which means that deliveries can’t be made past gates. And delivery personnel are only allowed one trip.
• Delivery notification from your vendor doesn’t necessarily mean your package is
ready for pick-up.
“As soon as we scan the [delivery] pallet, they send the notification that it’s available,” Binion said.
That can be misleading, because the Post Office still has to get the package off the pallet and sorted and into a locker, and place a locker key or yellow pick-up slip into your P.O. box. Depending on volume, that can take a while.
Binion is doing what she can to facilitate the process, “just trying to make it easier on the customer and on us.”
She said “I will have hours posted to extend pick-up times,” and she will accommodate special pick-ups.
“Whatever I can do to make it a lot more smoother process, I’m gonna do,” she said.
She also noted that she is available to help customers.
“My door is always open,” she said. “You can call me. I’ll try to answer the best I can.”
• No Costco orders through P.O. boxes. Such orders must go to a physical address.
• Mail early in the holiday season. You can beat the crush by mailing gifts early during the holidays — and your package has a better chance of arriving on time.
“The mail has slowed down a lot due to Amazon,” Binion said. “So, the earlier the better.”
Binion asks the Sisters public to be patient and understanding of the volume of work the staff has to tackle and the processes that they are required to follow.
“We’re doing the best we can with what we have,” she said. “This post office was not designed for Amazon.”
WEIGH STATION:
Officers work on a “surprise schedule”
Continued from page 1
by all the tandem axles.
Weighing trucks prevents overweight trucks from traveling on highways that cannot handle the heavy load. Trucks that weigh over the regulated weight limit can cause major damage to roads and bridges. Many states, like Oregon, collect taxes on transported goods based on weight.
Motor carriers operating in Oregon must comply with the weight-mile tax, which applies to vehicles with a gross weight over 26,000 pounds. A motor carrier can either get a temporary pass or pay the weight-mile tax up front. The pass lasts for 10 days.
The miles of operation must be paid on the pass before operation, and there is a pass limit of five for one unit or 35 in a rolling 12-month period per account, or as in most cases enroll their vehicle and pay the weight-mile tax on a monthly tax report.
Branch said the three most common issues at the weigh station are trucks bypassing
the station altogether, being out of compliance in the weight tax, or being overweight. Bypassing comes with a hefty penalty — $427 to $2,500.
When The Nugget arrived Spanna was already citing a truck that was overweight, over-height, and whose WIDE LOAD sign was too small.
For the most part it is fairly automated and most trucks can slow-roll (3 mph) though the scales with nothing more than a wave to the officer inside. Stations only have a single officer on duty.
Spanna enters the vehicle’s license plate as it approaches his window into a computer that immediately populates a data set of info about the vehicle and/or its driver including the driver’s safety and compliance record.
“We have some discretion on a few issues,” Branch said, “and we see our job
as much about education as enforcement. But there are state and federal safety rules that cannot be ignored.”
When asked about their scheduled hours, Branch smiled and said, “We operate on a surprise schedule. Hours are so randomly set that the industry cannot figure them out and avoid the scales.”
Each had their share of funny or rare stories to tell. Spanna recalled when a loaded gasoline tanker truck pulled into the Juniper Butte scales with his brakes on fire.
“That will get your attention,” he said.
The scales are open 24/7 so a truck can weigh itself for verification.
The officers have citation powers, but cannot make an arrest, and occasionally have to call in area law enforcement partners when a driver becomes belligerent or a threat to public safety.
The next time you drive past the coop when it’s open, wave.
The second Bend Pops Orchestra concert set for November 23 will be held
Savvy giving brings benefits
Giving to charity feels good, but understanding the tax benefits can benefit both the charity and you. Whether you donate regularly or are planning your first gift, knowing how charitable tax deductions work can help you make informed decisions while supporting causes you care about. Here are things to consider:
The basics: Itemizing vs. standard deduction . To benefit from charitable tax deductions, you need to itemize your deductions on your tax return. Everyone automatically receives a standard deduction, which in 2025 is $31,500 for married couples filing jointly or $15,750 for single filers. You’ll only benefit from itemizing if your total deductions, including charitable gifts, exceed these amounts.
For many people, charitable donations alone won’t push them over the standard deduction threshold. However, when combined with other deductible expenses like mortgage interest or state and local taxes, itemizing can make financial sense.
If you give regularly but don’t usually exceed the standard deduction, consider “stacking” your donations. Instead of donating $5,000 annually, you might donate $15,750 in one year to exceed
the itemization threshold, then take the standard deduction in subsequent years.
Ensure your donation qualifies. To claim a deduction, you must give to a qualified charitable organization recognized by the IRS. You can verify an organization’s status on the IRS website or ask the charity for their determination letter. Donations to individuals, even those in need, don’t qualify for tax deductions.
Additionally, you can’t receive personal benefits in exchange for your donation. If you give $500 to a charity but receive concert tickets worth $200, your deductible amount is only $300.
How much can you deduct? The IRS limits charitable deductions based on your adjusted gross income (AGI). For cash donations to public charities, you can typically deduct up to 60% of your AGI. If you donate stocks or other appreciated assets you’ve held for more than a year, the limit is generally 30 percent of your AGI.
If your donation exceeds these limits in a single year, you can carry forward the unused portion for up to five years.
What to donate. Think strategically about what you donate. While cash is easiest,
donating appreciated stocks can provide additional tax benefits since you avoid pay ing capital gains taxes on the investment’s growth. Keep good records. Documentation matters. For donations under $250, a canceled check or receipt works fine. Cash donations of $250 or more need writ ten acknowledgment from the charity. For larger non-cash donations of property exceed ing $5,000 in value, the IRS requires a qualified written appraisal. Keep these records with your tax documents in case the IRS requests proof. See IRS Publication No. 526 and No. 561 for information on charitable contributions and valuing donated property.
The bottom line Charitable giving may start with your heart, but understanding the tax implications helps you give more effectively. Work with a tax professional and a financial advisor to develop a giving strategy that aligns with both your charitable goals and financial situation. With thoughtful planning, you can maximize both your impact on causes you care about and the tax benefits you receive.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Karen Kassy, CRPC.
The Nugget will be closed Thursday, November 27 & Wednesday, December 24 through Thursday, January 1
Displa y advertising... Friday, December 19 at noon Events, Classifieds Announcements.. . Friday, December 19 at 5 p.m.
Let ter s to the Editor, Obituaries, Subscriptions.. Monday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. (Dec. 31 issue is "Year in Review" — no Letters to the Editor or Obituaries)
Office phone 541-549-9 941
News & Letters to the Editor: Jim Cornelius, 541-390-6973 (cell), editor@nuggetnews.com
Advertising: Kimberly Young, ads@nuggetnews.com
Classifieds, Subscriptions, Announcements: Wendy Bachmeier, nugget@nuggetnews.com Events, Poetry: Jess Draper, jess@nuggetnews.com
Come join the Sisters Country Running Club on the track on Tuesday mornings at 6:30 a.m. and help the community at the same time. We will be collecting and donating food every Tuesday for the month of November.
PHOTO BY AMY MARGOLIS
DISTRICTS: Sisters would have its own district under plan
Continued from page 1
or to submit as-is for the ballot in either the May or November election of 2026. If approved by voters, the districts will become effective two years later.
The City of Sisters Council met with BOCC November 13 for a workshop to discuss several topics, one of which was Map C. Deschutes County Administrator Nick Lelack provided background and noted Deschutes Mapping Advisory Committee (DMAC) had additional recommendations to the BOCC beyond Map C: to number the districts by lot (as though drawn out of a hat) and that future redistricting of Map C would occur after the 2030 census.
The DMAC was comprised of seven county citizens as selected by the BOCC. Commissioner Phil Chang selected three citizens and Commissioners Patti Adair and Tony DeBone each selected two. DMAC began their weekly meetings August 27 and completed their task ahead of schedule, November 12.
DMAC’s charter was to divide Deschutes County (County) into five districts. The other criteria in their charter (paraphrased):
• Each district shall be contiguous, use existing precinct lines, not divide communities of common interest or geographic boundaries, and consider current growth patterns.
• No district will be drawn for the purpose of favoring any political party, incumbent commissioner or candidate.
• No district will be drawn
to dilute voting strength of any language or ethnic minority.
• Maps will approximate equal populations in each district with a five percent variance - largest to smallest district.
DMAC waded through several versions of maps and the county aided them with tools to modify the maps based on population (2020 census), population growth projections, and the County Clerk’s weekly updated voter registration totals.
Although the criteria specified a five percent population variance between the districts, after many map adjustments, the minimum variance was 10 percent between the largest district to the smallest. To fairly parse the population, the goal was set at 39,651 people per district. In Map C population distribution of large to small, is 38,240 (District E-Redmond) to 42,576 (District B-portion of Bend). The per district goal for number of voters was 32,972 voters. In Map C, voters distribution is 31,825 (E) to 34,158 (C-south County).
Sisters (District A) shows a population of 38,642.
Once DMAC had settled on Map C, a few members wondered if either major political party was advantaged. The DMAC voted to not have the County research this question. However, Commissioner Chang shared in the workshop, two DMAC members completed separate studies, “which found that Democratic voters were disproportionately crammed into two districts,” which is not an accurate reflection of major party distribution in the County. Chang added that Map C, “showing a Republican advantage in three districts out of five is essentially gerrymandering.”
Commissioner Chang
SISTERS
• Angeline’s Bakery • Bedouin
•Best Western Ponderosa Lodge • Bi-Mart
• Black Butte Realty Group
• Cabin Creek Home & Style • Cascade Fitness
• Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s • Central Oregon
Eyecare •Chevron/McDonald’s • Country Coffee
• Dairy Queen • Dixie’s • Eurosports
• Fika Sisters Coffeehouse
• First Interstate Bank • FivePine Lodge
• GrandStay Hotel & Suites • Habitat Thrif t Store • Habitat ReStore
•Hard Tails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill
• High Camp Taphouse
• Hoyt’s Hardware & Building Supply
• Left Coast Lodge • Les Schwab Tire Center
• Luckey’s Woodsman • Makin’ it Local
• Martolli’s of Sisters • Mid Oregon Credit Union
• Oliver Lemon’s • Paulina Springs Books
• Philadelphia’s Steak & Hoagies
• Pine Desert Dental • Ponderosa Properties
• Rancho Viejo • Ray’s Food Place
• Sinclair Gas Station • Sisters Ace Hardware
later noted to The Nugget that he was frustrated that a majority of the DMAC was not willing to validate if the districts favored one political party. Considering the DMAC’s charter, Chang asked, “How can one assure no district was drawn to favor any political party, unless that is checked?”
Chang was a strong proponent of making Deschutes County Commission seats non-partisan.
When The Nugget asked Chang why party affiliation mattered when voting for candidates to fill nonpartisan seats, Chang replied, “I hope that candidates run to serve constituents across the political spectrum. However, as long as major political parties play a significant role in nonpartisan elections, the distribution of party affiliation is going to continue to matter.”
Sisters City Councilor Pellerin shared that she had watched many of the DMAC meeting videos, and in one, the DMAC was advised by legal counsel to not look at
party affiliation because that research could be perceived as being partisan, adding, “darned if you do; darned if you don’t.” Pellerin also postulated that in a future without districts, the public could vote in five commissioners all from the City of Sisters.
During the workshop, Chang offered that BOCC should apply the ‘Missoula model’ when defining voting procedure relative having districts in the county. In this model all candidates from each district are voted for at large to avoid parochialism. If not voting at large, each district commissioner competes for County resources rather than working collaboratively. Chang alternatively suggested the BOCC create four districts each having one candidate with one more candidate voted for at large.
The Nugget also asked a member of the DMAC for a comment on the mapping process overall. DMAC member Carol Loesche (a nonaffiliated voter) felt that the process was rushed. She added that the outcome was
• Sisters Apothecary • Sisters Art Works
• Sisters Athletic Club • Sisters Bakery
• Sisters Bunkhouse • Sisters City Hall
• Sisters Coffee Co.• Sisters Community Church
• Sisters Creekside Campground
• Sisters Dino Market •Sisters Depot
• Sisters Elementary School
•Sisters Feed & Supply
• Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop
• Sisters High School • Sisters Inn & Suites
• Sisters Library • Sisters Liquor Store
• Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
• Sisters Middle School • Sisters Moto
• Sisters Movie House & Café
• Sisters Nails & Spa • Sisters Post Off ice •Sisters Pumphouse & Country Store
• Sisters Ranger Station • Sisters Rental
• Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill
• Sisters School Administration Building
• Sisters Veterinary Clinic
• Ski Inn Taphouse & Motel
• Sno Cap Drive In
• Space Age Fuel
• Spoons Restaurant
• Sisters Park & Recreation District
• St. Charles Family Care
• Stellar Realty NW
predictable, “considering the criteria limited the DMAC to five districts, it was next to impossible to end up with nonpartisan mapping. As a longtime member of the League of Women Voters, I align with their position to establish fair district maps reflecting an inclusive democracy. [BOCC] should have given the DMAC the leeway to determine the number of districts that would result in the most equitable distribution.”
Commissioner DeBone wrapped up the discussion saying, “We had seven citizen members from Deschutes County provide this analysis.” He thanked them. He added, “It is a partisan process, we knew that going in, . . . it started by a petition to go to five [commissioners], this is the response to that.” DeBone shared that the BOCC will review the DMAC recommendations in the next public meeting. He stated the BOCC has the authority to get a map on the ballot to “let the voters decide.”
• Suttle Tea • Takoda’s Restaurant & Lounge
• The Barn in Sisters • The Gallery Restaurant
• The Gallimaufry
• The Lodge Retirement Community
• The Nugget Front Porch
• The Pony Express • The Slow Down State
• Three Creeks Brew Pub • Three Sisters Floral
• Western Title & Escrow Company • Your Store
BBR & CAMP SHERMAN:
• Black Butte Ranch General Store
• Black Butte Ranch Post Off ice
• Black Butte Ranch Welcome Center
• Camp Sherman Post Off ice
• Metolius River Lodges
REDMOND:
• M&W Market • The Ranch Market • Redmond
Library • Sisters Meat and Smokehouse
TUMALO:
• Pisano’s Pizza • Shell Station • Tumalo
Coffeehouse • Tumalo Farmstand
• Tumalo Feed Co.
• Tumalo Home
HOT TOPICS:
Recycling may change in Sisters Country
Boundary (UGB) expansion project, Sisters Recycling Center, and the City’s affordable housing situation.
Community Planning Manager Scott Woodford presented the UGB amendment status. He noted the project was approved by Council November 5 to move forward with the UGB Steering Committee’s recommendation of Concept Aa which focuses the expansion mostly to the northeast of the City (full report in the November 12 issue of The Nugget) Woodford explained that the area has 202 developable acres which will satisfy the land needs for a 20-year horizon — the forecasted need was 180 acres.
The City staff will work for the next six months on two applications to increase the City’s UGB. The applications will be reviewed for adoption; one to the Council, the other to BOCC in a joint meeting. If adopted, the applications are sent to the State for reviews and approval. If approved, the City staff will spend another six months to complete the area planning of the expanded UGB, and also update the City’s annexing process.
Approximately a year from now, owners of property within the expanded UGB may petition the City to annex their land. Annexing or not is totally up to the owners. A city has the right to expand its UGB regardless any owners stating they will never annex. Such properties remain in the county until the owner decides to annex.
Council President Sarah McDougall made a point to thank the BOCC for expediting the county land use application from McKenzie Meadow Village (MMV), LLC. The expedited application by BOCC was in response to Council’s suggestion in January to the BOCC that expediting the MMV application would be helpful to the City’s progress on the UGB expansion effort.
County Commissioner Tony DeBone replied to Council, “to do what’s right for Sisters and the BOCC will support them.”
City Manager Jordan Wheeler presented the status on the nearly 20-yearold Sisters Recycling Center (SRC) which is owned by the City and contractually managed by Republic Services (RS). The City is debating upgrading the recycling services, keeping it as is, or eliminating the SRC to free up the property for other uses. Wheeler said that the users of SRC are mostly recycling glass or cardboard.
Additionally, Wheeler suggested that the BOCC might consider increasing the $40,000 annual subsidy
the County has paid the City for about eight years. This to compensate the City for the 10,000 or more people in the unincorporated areas who also use the SRC and the fact that the costs to operate and maintain the SRC continue to rise.
Wheeler stated that the City conducted an online survey including Sisters Country residents and was pleased to learn that, “a majority of respondents like [the SRC].”
Councilor Gary Ross added that he was surprised, “a high percentage did not want to go to the Northwest Transfer Station [on Fryrear Road].”
Director of Solid Waste for the County Tim Brownell informed the City that the County is currently considering offering county residents ‘universal distant rural’ curbside recycling at an increased price of six dollars per household per month which would be collected every other week. It would not include glass. Commissioner DeBone advised Council that the BOCC has not made any decisions on this as of yet.
Councilor Michael Preedin shared that he remained disappointed with the customer service which RS provides.
Commissioner Chang mentioned that Redmond gave notice to RS over a year ago that Redmond would not be renewing their contract. Preedin suggested further negotiations with RS should be as a region (minimally, Sisters, Bend, and Redmond).
Council President McDougall moved the discussion to the related topic of the Land Fill Siting project. Director Brownell, shared the project is two years into a possibly eight-year effort. Out of 200 sites assessed they currently are looking at two possible sites but have about five more months of “final site” evaluation work to do and are looking into procurement before bringing the two options before the BOCC. The current land fill is now predicted to hit capacity by November 2031 based on a slowing growth in waste in the County the past few years.
City Manager Wheeler presented the affordable housing situation. Wheeler stated
that the Northwest Housing Alliance project expects Trinity Place’s land financing to close November 25. The cost of construction of the 40 affordable units started five years ago with a budget of $14,000,000 and since has grown to $20,000,000. Wheeler shared the development project is expected to break ground in December and finish March 2027. Wheeler added that Sisters Habitat for Humanity has 10 units being built in the Woodlands subdivision off North Pine Street and will continue progress on developing 19 units near Adams Avenue and North Larch Street.
Wheeler noted that the City now has a rapid flashing crosswalk from the Woodlands across Highway 20 — a first, and invited BOCC to attend the grand opening of the Sisters Mobility Hub starting at 10 a.m., November 17, for a public tour of the hub and adjoining park.
The Nugget Newspaper... READ IT YOUR WAY!
• Pick up a FREE print copy of The Nugget at locations throughout Sisters, and at select locations in Black Butte R anch, Camp Sherman, T umalo, and R edmond.
• Have the paper delivered to your mailbox. Subscription cost covers postage and handling. $55/year inside 97759, 97730, 97703, 97759, $70/year all other zip codes. Subscribe at www.nuggetnews.com/subscribe or call 541-549-9941
• R ead the digital version for FREE. Looks just like the print edition but read the PDF on your eR eader or computer Email jess@nuggetnews.com to be added to the list.
• R ead stories online at NuggetNews.com — most stories from the paper are free to read. Visit NuggetNews.com anytime!
• R ead ALL the stories online at NuggetNews.com with an online subscription. Suppor ts community journalism and gives you access to extra content, behind the scenes, and more. $50/year; visit NuggetNews.com/subscribe.
• Substack...Search for “Nugget From A Small Town” by Jim Cornelius to read more from your favorite Editor in Chief!
Petitioners seek open primaries in Oregon
By Mia Maldonado Oregon Capital Chronicle
More than 1.3 million registered voters in Oregon don’t have a say in primary elections, but two potential ballot initiatives could change that in the November 2026 election.
Former Democratic Gov. Ted Kulongoski, former Republican state Rep. Cheri Helt of Bend, and Independent Party of Oregon Co-Chair Andrew Kaza submitted two petitions to the Oregon Secretary of State this week to begin the ballot initiative process and let voters decide whether to amend state law and the state’s Constitution to open primary elections to all voters.
Primary elections are held in May of every evennumbered year. While nonaffiliated Oregon voters and voters registered under minor political parties can vote in nonpartisan elections such as for judges, local offices and labor commissioner, they are closed off from voting for Democratic or Republican candidates in the primary such as candidates for U.S. Congress, governor, and state lawmakers.
The petitioners argue primary elections are paid for by all taxpayers and thus should be accessible to all Oregonian taxpayers.
About 44 percent of Oregon’s current registered voters aren’t able to vote in most primary elections because they are either nonaffiliated or registered under a minority political party such as the Constitutional, Independent, or Progressive Party.
The state’s nonaffiliated voter bloc has risen over the years. In 2021, there were more Democrats than nonaffiliated voters, but by 2022, nonaffiliated voters began outnumbering the state’s registered Democrats and Republicans, the Capital Chronicle previously reported.
Kaza, the chief petitioner who lives in Deschutes County where most registered voters are nonaffiliated, said the ballot initiative came out of the concern that the closed primary system drives extremist politics.
“Part of our problem with our politics here and throughout the country right now is that the political party process and the primaries drive us to the extremes of both the Democratic and the Republican Party,” he
told the Capital Chronicle. “There’s a concern for the disenfranchised voters who are being left out of this process until November every year.”
The Oregon Democratic Party and Oregon Republican Party did not immediately respond to the Capital Chronicle for comment.
Kaza said he and the other petitioners consider the ballot initiative a necessary reform, and that Oregon falls behind other states in the West.
Oregonians in 2008 and 2014 tried to change the state’s closed primary system, but voters defeated those measures which would have created a top-two primary system similar to California and Washington. Other states in the West, such as Montana, have open primaries, while Wyoming and Nevada have closed primaries. In Idaho, primaries are closed in the Republican primary but the Democratic primary is open to any voter.
Kaza said he and the other petitioners think the initiative has a good chance of getting support from Oregon voters, but he said it may take until November 2028 for the initiatives to appear on the ballot.
The open primaries initiatives are listed as numbers 55 and 56 on the Oregon Secretary of State Election Division’s database for Initiatives, Referendums and Referrals.
“We’re realistic in this process,” Kaza said. “We recognize that 2026 is ambitious, but if everything works out, it’s quite possible that we’ll be voting on this next year, but if not everything’s in place for us to bring it forward in 2028 at the latest.”
Before gathering voter signatures, petitioners must first submit 1,000 sponsorship signatures and receive approval from the Oregon attorney general on the ballot language for both petitions. The petitioners will need to pass a constitutional amendment and an amendment to state law in order to open the state’s primaries.
To qualify for the November 2026 ballot, they’ll need to collect 156,000 signatures for a petition to amend the Oregon Constitution and 117,000 to change state law.
Republished under Creative Commons license
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0, courtesy of https://oregoncapital chronicle.com.
Nugget Poetry Corner
This Season of Red and Gold
ByEdieJones
What a glorious season, bright with r ed and gold. A time to reflect on what’s next – and days of old. A time to cr eate f antasies, imagining your fate. What to hold on to, w hat to r elease fr om your plate.
Spooks, ghosts, and goblins, scar y and bold, lur king in the shadows, embellish stories told. They knoc k on your door, asking, “Trick or Tr eat?”
Not sur e how to do ‘tric ks,’ while hoping for sweets.
You walk through the forest and consciously hear the sounds of the tr ees – loud, str ong, and c lear
You bundle up on days blustery cold, and in evening, find blankets as winter unfolds
Some days ar e wet, and the wind brings a c hill.
While other s quite warm and quietly still. Huddling by warm fires brings memories up, and hot cider with spices, the drink in your cup
What a glorious season we have right now, pr eparing all for snow, ice, and loud, loud, plows
Thank you, dear God, for this time in between, the warmth of summer and when Winter is Queen
Vinemaplesgreet October ine maplesgreet with burstingred turn of color turn colo
Photoby Bill Bartlett
His Last Car
ByPaulAlanBennett
He used to measur e his life in year s
But now he measur es his life in car s
And the next car he gets will be his last He tells himself with a pause
To reflect on his fir st car, a Plymouth Fury III
20 year s old, 6 of its 8 cylinder s wor king just fine $600 cash, he w as thrilled with the feeling of being fr ee
The fir st night he slept in the bac k seat just for fun
Not a good night’s sleep but he didn’t care
With its grill and fender s cover ed in chrome
It w asn’t just a car, but his fir st piece of home
Within a year the car broke down so he bought
A friend’s v an, a lifestyle c hange
He could now haul stuf f ar ound
And with a mattr ess on the floor
Over night trips to the mountains, shor e…and muc h mor e!
After that a series of car s: Dodge, Honda, Toyota, Subar us
So many models from w hic h to c hoose
All used car s. Was it time to buy ne w?!
His ver y last car. Make it the best!
An all-electric with those comfy head r ests
And heated seats, fancy lights and a scr een
That played his favorite music from Gershwin to Queen
For less than $40,000, the car of his dr eams
He can go to his bank and get a car loan
Age is never old when ther e’s a ne w car to own!
Send submissions of originalpoetry to originalpoetry to jess@nuggetnews jess@nuggetnews. comforpossible inclusion in a future issue of TheNugget. Allpoemscopyright the author
PROJECT UNIFY: Program provides leadership opportunities Continued from page 3
our Transition Program, which supports students who graduate with an alternative diploma. This program focuses on helping students integrate into the community while building vocational and independent living skills.”
Nordell’s dedication to Project Unify goes above and beyond his teaching responsibilities at Sisters High School, and he brings a passionate and unwavering commitment to the program. The program’s overarching goal is to develop inclusion through shared experiences, where students with and without intellectual disabilities can participate together in sports and school-wide events that create systems of accountability. Additionally, the program seeks to provide leadership opportunities for students and to build a culture of care, respect and inclusivity.
The program in Sisters boasts membership of 20-25 students per term. Members volunteer and participate in events at Harmony Farms, Seed to Table, and Habitat for Humanity. Students also participate in fitness activities at Sisters Athletic Club and compete in basketball, golf, and the Polar Plunge.
Nordell has personally invited several regional schools to participate in the program as well, and now Sisters students enjoy the opportunity to compete against other schools in the area. This allows students to expand their network and develop deep relationships with Unified students from other school districts.
“We compete in a Central Oregon league and can qualify for statewide competitions. The Unified program is often a little chaotic — but in the best way — full of energy, teamwork, and lots of happy
people,” Nordell said. Such a robust program wouldn’t be possible without the help of local organizations and nonprofits who help with funding. The Sisters School District provides transportation for Unified team events throughout the region, but the rest of the funding comes from support from individual donors, The Roundhouse Foundation, the Sisters Schools Foundation, Kiwanis, and Special Olympics Oregon. Generous donations from these sources has allowed for expanded programing and increased connection with other Unified programs throughout the state.
Despite Nordell’s busy school schedule and packed programming with the Project Unify, he still finds time to spend with his family and to enjoy sports of his own, especially gravel bike racing. His daughters Ryah and Camden participate in sports as well and often accompany him to Unified events.
Nordell’s work with the Unified program was acknowledged and honored earlier this month, when he was celebrated as an honoree inducted into the 2025 Outlaw Hall of Fame. Nordell attests that the greatest honor of all is seeing his students move into careers of their own, often in roles that serve the Sisters community or are directly involved in special education. He attributes this success to the team of educators he works with and the community partners that support the Sisters School District and the Unify program.
“We’re proud of all our students. Over the years, several have gone on to pursue careers in Special Education or human services after being part of our program — which feels like the ultimate compliment to our staff and the work we do. It’s less about me personally and more about the incredible team I get to lead and the community that supports us,” Nordell said.
Josh Nordell has led Project Unify in Sisters for many years.
ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
CLASSIFIED RATES
COST:
$3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate.
DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 5 PM preceding Wednesday publication.
PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. Major credit cards accepted with a 3% processing fee. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four weeks.
CATEGORIES:
102 Commercial Rentals
473 W. Hood Ave., Suite 102 Office Suite, 512 Sf. High Traffic Exposure 503-730-0150
GARAGE FOR LEASE
1 year minimum • 600 sq. ft.
652 N. Aylor Ct., Sisters Jay, 206-550-8997
STORAGE WITH BENEFITS
8 x 20 dry box
Fenced yard, RV & trailers
• In-town, gated, 24-7
EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com
MINI STORAGE
Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor
RV parking. 7-day access.
Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies. COMMERCIAL
SPACES FOR LEASE
Great location across from Ace Hardware.
Office Spaces: $900, $1100, $1250/month
Retail Space: $3250/mo. Call Jim Peterson/RE Broker. 503-238-1478
103 Residential Rentals
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
104 Vacation Rentals
Downtown Vacation Rentals
Popular 1 and 2 Bedroom SistersVacationRentals.net Great pricing. 503-730-0150
202 Firewood 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
205 Garage & Estate Sales
Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions!
Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths? Locally owned & operated by... Daiya 541-480-2806 Sharie 541-771-1150
301 Vehicles
CLASSIC CAR STORAGE! Oversized, lights/power, $275/m • 541-419-2502
We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397 Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com
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
SISTERS WHISKERS
Your purr-fect friend is waiting for you at our local nonprofit cat rescue! Apply to adopt at: sisterswhiskers.org
500 Services SMALL Engine REPAIR Lawn Mowers, Chainsaws & Trimmers Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631
Authorized service center for Stihl, Honda, Ariens/Gravely, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki Engines
I AM A CAREGIVER Looking for work in Sisters, Part-Time Please call Lynn 503-274-0214. CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS
Bend Window Works, LLC is offering a 10% discount on new window coverings. FREE in-home consultation. Same day in-home repair services available. New and repaired blinds make rentals look better! Contact us at 541-383-2455 or andy@bendblinds.com.
Junk removal, new home, garage & storage clean-out, construction, yard debris. You Call – We Haul! 541-719-8475
• DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279
501 Computers & Communications
Garage Sale? Yard Sale? Moving Sale? Place your ad in The Nugget
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
AlpenGlow Handyman Services
Small & Large Jobs (1hr–2wks) 20+ Years Experience CCB#180099
Call/Text: 541-728-8607
AlpenGlowHandymanServices.
com • Credit Cards Accepted
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
Tree Removal • Tree Pruning Good for Trees. Good to People. SparTreeArborist.com (916) 619-6317
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
TimberStandImprovement.net
Tree Removal & Pruning TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825
• Wildfire Fuels reduction
• Debris Chipping/Mastication
• Forest Health Thinning
• Wildfire Cleanup & Restoration
• 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
601 Construction
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
Earthwood Timber
• Recycled fir and pine beams
• Mantels and accent timbers
• Sawmill/woodshop services ewdevcollc@gmail.com SUDOKU Level: Moderate Answer: Page 23
3 Sisters TeleNetworks, LLC Audio/video, data networking, WIFI, security camera, alarms. CCB #191099 541-306-0729 HAVE A SERVICE TO PROVIDE? Place your ad in The Nugget
LOCAL CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES & HOME MAINT.
Remodels • Landscaping
Firewise Maintenance
Decks & Much More! Pease Co. Contracting Call Tanner at 541-588-0136.
Big and small jobs! CCB# 256258
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
CASCADIA DESIGN BUILD
Remodel / Renovate / Repair
Full home remodel, little home fixes, and everything in between. cascadiadesignbuildllc.com 541-974-2282
Lara’s Construction LLC. CCB#223701
Offering masonry work, fireplaces, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build barbecues, and all types of masonry. Give us a call for a free estimate 541-350-3218
CASCADE GARAGE DOORS
Factory Trained Technicians Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
Custom Homes • Additions
Residential Building Projects
Serving Sisters area since 1976
Strictly Quality
CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 541-280-9764
John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com
Custom Homes
Additions - Remodels
Residential Building Projects
Becke William Pierce
CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384
Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com — Serving Sisters Since 2010 —
Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED CRAFTSMAN BUILT
CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com
Construction & Renovation
Custom Residential Projects
All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448
602 Plumbing & Electric
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 — GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE
541-419-3148
A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com
SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.
“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling
• New Construction
• Water Heaters 541-549-4349
Residential and Commercial
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587
Walls Needing a Touchup? Check the Classifieds! 603 Excavation & Trucking Full Service Excavation
Free On-site Visit & Estimate
Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com
541-549-1472 • CCB #76888
Drainfield
• Minor & Major Septic Repair
• All Septic Needs/Design & Install
General Excavation
• Site Preparation
• Rock & Stump Removal
• Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation
• Building Demolition
Trucking
• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24
Whatever You Want!
BANR Enterprises, LLC
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Residential & Commercial
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977
www.BANR.net
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
Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service
Residential & Commercial Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair
541-588-5667
SistersHeatingAir.com
ACTION AIR
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel
Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com
CCB #195556
541-549-6464
605 Painting
~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620
www.frontier-painting.com
Interior/Exterior Painting
Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet
503-559-9327
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
EMPIRE PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining
CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
UPLOADED EVERY TUESDAY!
The Nugget Newspaper
C L A S S I F I E D S are at www.NuggetNews.com
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
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
– Advertise with The Nugget –541-549-9941
– All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, snow removal, moss removal, lawn care, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122
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
J&E Landscaping Maintenance LLC Clean-ups, raking, hauling debris, thatching, aerating, irrigation, mowing. Edgar Cortez 541-610-8982 jandelspcing15@gmail.com
STEVE'S HAULING
Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
701 Domestic Services
BEST IN THE CLEANING BUSINESS! Are you looking for an excellent cleaning service, specializing in office and commercial locations? Offering a discount for religious institutions. M. K. HAINES SERVICES 541-977-3051
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897 802 Help Wanted
At First Interstate Bank, we are committed to being an employer of choice, as we recognize our employees as our greatest asset. First Interstate Bank is hiring a Financial Services Representative II. For a complete job description and to apply online, please visit firstinterstatebank.com/careers – EOE –
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
BATTALION CHIEF
TRAINING & SUPPORT OPERATIONS of Black Butte Ranch RFPD
This role is second in command of the Fire District and assists the Fire Chief with the development, coordination, and oversight of the District's training programs, personnel management, operational support initiatives, and interagency coordination. Position works closely with internal staff, regional partners, and allied agencies to ensure a high level of readiness, operational efficiency, and professional development throughout the organization. For a list of minimum and preferred qualifications or to request an application packet, please email jellison@bbrfire-or.gov and jvohs@bbrfire-or.gov or call 541-595-2288
Completed applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on November 26, 2025
Salary range: $115,000–$125,000 annually, DOQ, plus benefits. Black Butte Ranch RFPD is an equal opportunity employer. 999 Public Notice
BBR RFPD
Meeting Date Change
The regularly scheduled board meeting for November has moved to November 20, 2025, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The regularly scheduled board meeting for December has been canceled due to the holidays. Questions? Call (541) 595-2288
