The Nugget
News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon
Holiday Palooza delights spectators
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
“Mom, mom — look! There’s Santa.” “Grammy, did you see the grinch, did you?” “Dad, how many lights can the tree hold?”
And so it was Saturday at the Sisters Holiday Palooza, sponsored and organized by Sisters Park and Recreation District (SPRD). Kids with a thousand questions. Oohs and ahhs up and down the avenue. Main Avenue that is, closed off at 3:30 p.m. by City workers for 45 minutes to allow the Holiday Palooza parade to work its way from Ash to Spruce street. It is a cherished Sisters tradition among the many reenacted every year at this time. (See related story on holiday traditions in the Holidays in Sisters Special Section).
Spectators, some 1,500 to 2,000, began gathering in front of Fir Street Park at 3 p.m. for prime viewing advantage. The lines spread east and west on both sides of the street as the numbers swelled. And the anticipation ballooned.
In typical Sisters fashion, the trooping of the colors led the parade, Old Glory front and center. The town reveres its veterans, who were in force that day with around two dozen from all service branches proudly marching past the admiring onlookers, many of whom saluted the
Washboarded roads fact of life in Sisters
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Recreationalists in Sisters Country must contend with washboarding on popular roads leading to lakes, streams, trails and camp sites. They often mutter under their breath or shake their fists at the windshield with misplaced exasperation aimed at the Forest Service or ODOT.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the four primary causes of washboarding are driving habits, lack of moisture, poor gravel quality, and lack of crown on the road surface.
Vehicle speed greatly contributes to washboarding. According to Stephen Morris, lead physicist for a University of Toronto study, “The hopping of the wheel over the
ripples turns out to be mathematically similar to skipping a stone over water.” He explains that just as “a skipping stone needs to go above a specific speed in order to develop enough force to be thrown off the surface of the water,” vehicles need to be moving at a certain speed for washboarding to occur.
Places where drivers routinely accelerate rapidly or break hard are also particularly prone to corrugation — so one way to reduce washboarding is to simply lower the speed limit.
Protracted periods of dry weather can also lead to washboarding, as arid conditions cause the crust that forms on the surface of gravel roads to loosen and become more susceptible to reshaping
See ROADS on page 11
Stars and Stripes or placed their hand over their heart.
The parade featured horses and costumed Christmas storybook characters and assorted marchers. Plus, the usual civic partners – the Sheriff’s Office and big rigs from Cloverdale and Sisters-Camp Sherman fire
districts.
As they sounded their sirens, blasted their horns and flashed their lights, kiddos egged them on for more.
Candy canes and other delights were handed out by parade walkers quickly
See PALOOZA on page 9
Hunters find mixed bag this season
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
This year’s big-game hunt was a mixed bag, but generally positive, hunters report. Overall, deer and elk showed variable trends as some populations are stable or improving and others are declining. Key influences were habitat quality and connectivity, weather and forage availability, predation, human disturbance, and illegal hunting practices.
ODFW (Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife) biologist Andrew Walsh based in Bend told The Nugget , “It’s mostly anecdotal at this point. We don’t get that many field reports. Hunters have until January 31 to report their kills.
“October weather started
See HUNTERS on page 21
Petitioners work to repeal gas tax
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
Sisters activists were out over Thanksgiving weekend harvesting signatures in opposition to the transportation bill recently signed by Governor Tina Kotek. Oregonians across the state are being asked to sign on to a referendum to repeal HB 3991 – the emergency transportation bill enacted in a special legislative session in late October to fund road maintenance and stave off layoffs of Oregon Department of Transportation personnel.
State Representative Ed Diehl, State Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr, and Oregon Taxpayer Association co-founder Jason Williams are the three chief petitioners on the referendum. Signature gathering began November 13.
No Tax Oregon says they
will continue to gather signatures and expect to at least double their initial goal of 100,000 signatures.
The Nugget visited both locations Friday. Rodney
See GAS TAX on page 23
Signature gatherers in Sisters have seen steady traffic at their two locations, one at Cardiostart Resale Thrift Store near Bi-Mart and the other at Mountain View Ranch Vintage on East Main Avenue.
Signature gatherers did brisk business at two Sisters locations in an effort to repeal Oregon’s emergency transportation bill.
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
Santa Claus rode in on a fire truck to close out a well-attended Holiday Palooza parade.
PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT
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.
Remove Trump
To the Editor:
As far as I’m concerned, every citizen who voted for Donald Trump bears responsibility for the recent death of a young National Guard woman who answered the President’s call to patrol the streets of our nation’s capitol, without a shred of justification for doing so. His response to her murder has been to call out more soldiers to be placed at risk, and
to further limit the rights of immigrants since the perpetrator happens to be one of them. Where is our feckless Congress, so desperately needed to put a stop to this lunatic? Waiting for another election for the people to have their say about Trump’s behavior before getting rid of him makes no sense. He has clearly demonstrated his inability to govern and should be removed from office forthwith.
Roger Detweiler
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
Protecting a landmark
By Rachael Woods Guest Columnist
In 2022, a group of concerned citizens noticed that the Camp Polk Pioneer Cemetery was falling into disrepair. The cemetery had been declared abandoned by the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department since 1985, yet it is on both the Deschutes County Historic Places Register as well as the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Register. One of the concerned citizens is the great-great-granddaughter of Martha Taylor Cobb Hindman Olson, a prominent Sisters pioneer and the last active owner of the cemetery property. The group of citizens collectively formed the Camp Polk Pioneer Cemetery Preservation Committee (PC), and began the journey of securing care and legal protection for the Cemetery. They first acquired a caretaker permit, then after a lengthy search for other potential owners, were granted ownership of the property itself. They also acquired 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to allow for fundraising to pay for ongoing maintenance needs.
The Cemetery property was separated from the Hindman homestead in 1940, when Martha Olson passed away. The Cemetery parcel was deeded to Thelma Roberts. While the property was legally private property until Mrs. Roberts passed away in 2006, undocumented burials continued for decades after Martha Olson passed away in 1940. Local residents likely were unaware of its legal status. Relatives and friends of the deceased cared for the property, as well as local Veterans. However, maintenance efforts eventually weren’t able to keep up with the needs.
The Oregon Mortuary and Cemetery Board (OMCB) was formed in 1985, setting in place laws to ensure that all aspects of death care were safe for the public and respectful to the deceased. Despite the new Oregon statutes, burials continued illegally. The lack of burial documentation contributed positively to the character of the Cemetery, but negatively to the current number of mysteries for the current owners to unravel. There are at least 50 unmarked graves. Some graves are marked by
piles of rocks, some we just suspect are burials because a person-sized area of ground is noticeably higher or lower than the surrounding area. We have also discovered one collapsed grave (it has been filled) but are concerned there may be more. We are actively fundraising for the $6,000 needed to have the Cemetery mapped by Ground Penetrating Radar to both locate unmarked graves as well as detect any additional collapsed graves, but it could take years worth of grant-writing efforts to pay for this task. Former and current board members have contributed approximately $12,000 of their own money securing ownership and paying for maintenance needs.
Currently the PC consists of four board members: myself, Marianne Straumfjord, Eric Strobel (Economic Development of Central Oregon), and Kelly Cannon-Miller (Deschutes Historical Society).
Burials of any kind are not allowed by Oregon statute and the PC is required by law to report any newly found burials (including cremains) to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. However, OMCB does have a temporary burial permit process that under extremely limited circumstances, could allow for the burial of cremains only. The PC will support anyone applying for a temporary burial permit through OMCB and we would like to encourage local funerary businesses to work with clients on this effort if requested. It has so far been a challenge to find a funeral home willing to sign the permit application.
The Camp Polk Pioneer Cemetery is one of the most unique, wonderful little cemeteries there is. It is quirky, well-loved and well-visited. The love for those interred there can be felt the moment you step onto the grounds. Local veterans lovingly tend to its flag and grounds, while community groups like YouthBuild come out annually to rake pine needles and trim overgrown plants.
The PC hopes that citizens will understand why we can’t approve any future burials, despite decades of burials occurring despite the cemetery’s legal status or lack thereof.
To volunteer or supporting preservation efforts, contact us at info@camppolk pioneercemetery.org or visit our website at www.camp polkpioneercemetery.org.
PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT
COMMUNITY
Nine lives of Hardy Allen’s House
By Maret Pajutee Correspondent
The oldest house in Sisters is still alive. Blink and see its latest transformation. For 117 years, the house that Hardy and Daisy Allen built has stood in Sisters, somewhere. It survived two disastrous fires and transported itself to escape demolition, almost like magic, two-and-a-half blocks away from where it was built in 1908.
Hardy Kadle Allen was a successful pioneer entrepreneur, blacksmith/mechanic, and party planner for Sisters in the early years of the 20th century. In 1900, he married his wife, Daisy Belle Davidson, who became a stylish dressmaker. Hardy’s
shop was on the corner of Cascade and Fir, and the second floor was a designated meeting place for the frontier town to gather, socialize, and dance. The Allens were known as a hospitable couple and Hardy often brought friends and customers home for lunch when Daisy rang the cowbell on their porch.
The Allen’s house, originally on the corner of Fir and Main, was built in a late Victorian style known as Eastlake tradition. It has a three-bay front porch and veranda. The central chimney is surrounded by a miniature “widows walk” on the roof. It was considered one of the finest houses in Sisters in its day. The front door glass was a special
order, with an etched design of a stag. It was broken during snow wrestling with Hardy and his friends and replaced with a design with two deer in a forest. It has arrow-shaped cutouts on the boards above the veranda. Hardy passed away in 1954 and Daisy joined him in 1959. When demolition threatened the house in 1990, Attorney Jim Massey and Community Planner Leslee Bangs came to the rescue. Jim had skills in carpentry. Both had backgrounds in architecture and house design. Bangs gave kudos to artist Judith Sparks who raised awareness about the historic importance of the
See HARDY ALLEN on page 22
COMMENTARY…
Local women are ‘Greek Sisters’
By Katy Yoder
This time of year conjures all kinds of memories, both long past and from this year’s quick unfolding. The year 2025 has left behind an album full of adventures, endings and beginnings. Babies were born, people died, and lives changed. Looking back, one memory still holds the warmth and weight of a comfy blanket just tossed off to start a new day.
I joined three Sisters women on a grand adventure to Greece that began in late September and ended two weeks later. PJ Hunter heard about a nature-journaling
Author
workshop taught by Melinda Nakagawa whose “Spark in Nature” classes expand student’s abilities to capture what they see in nature through sketching, watercolor, and the written word. Nakagawa’s encouraging teaching style fostered a deep relationship with the ancient, colorful landscapes in Greece’s southern peninsula of Pelion Magnesia. Hunter invited Kathy Marshall, Susan Prince, Bend resident Kip Wadden, and me to join her on an adventure that included several days before and after Nakagawa’s week-long class in Lavkos.
seeks path of wisdom with
By
Stephen King is a successful entrepreneur, an executive coach, and a public servant who served on the Sisters School Board. Now based primarily in Hawaii, the Sisters man has created a unique kind of self-help book to inspire leaders and creators.
In so doing, King has tapped a long-term study of philosophy, myth, and ancient tradition that seeks not to offer a step-by-step “how-to”
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, 6:30 p.m., The HUB, 2 91 E. M ain Ave. sistersveterans@gmail. com.
book
Manuel for “success,” but a means of exploring meaning and developing wisdom.
“I’m not trying to lead you through a practice,” King said. “I’m trying to get you to think differently. It’s not prescriptive. A compass doesn’t tell you where to go. It helps you get somewhere you want to go.”
Thus the title, “The Inner Compass: Navigating Life’s Uncertainties in a Complex World.”
King’s longtime
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 COURTESY THREE SISTERS HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Hardy, Harold, and Daisy Allen in front of their house.
Correspondent
Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
Breathing lessons Consider THIS
Mitchel Luftig Columnist
their affection. Each word is a stone thrown against the glass house of my self-esteem.
But when I lean into my basic goodness, I can listen to feedback without defensiveness. When my selfworth isn’t on the line, I can acknowledge being unkind, letting others down, causing pain. I wish to listen to feedback so that I can act more skillfully in the future.
When I place the world in charge of determining my worth, the basis for my self-respect is the praise I receive for my accomplishments. However, one mistake, one failure, negates the praise, and sparks a round of self-incrimination.
I have two distinct ways of interfacing with the world, associated with two different styles of breathing:
One way, I allow the world to determine my value as a human being. When I approach my life in this fashion, every day my worth rises and falls, based upon daily events and the quality of feedback I receive.
The second way, I lean into what Buddhists call my basic goodness, defined by Lodro Rinzler as “…a sense of being whole, inherently worthy, and, yes, enough, just as we are.” When I lean into my basic goodness, my self-worth, detached as it is from events in the world, flows constantly.
Basic goodness, to me, means that I was born worthy of kindness, consideration, and care; worthy of love and affection; worthy of compassion and understanding; my life has inherent value.
When I place the world in charge of evaluating my worth, critical feedback feels like a personal indictment as to how I’ve let others down, how I’ve hurt those I care about, how I’m not good enough to warrant
When I lean into my basic goodness, I know that mistakes do not reduce my value as a human being. As a consequence, mistakes don’t throw me for a loop. Most of my mistakes turn out to be inconsequential, a result of making decisions without adequate information.
Relying upon the world to determine my self-worth, motivates me to treat others with kindness, consideration, and care — I’m worried that if I prioritized my needs over theirs, those close to me might be offended and withdraw their affection. But if I’m always kind and considerate, they will never find a reason to be upset with me.
When I base my
self-worth on my inherent goodness, my motivation to be kind, show others consideration, extend care when the people I know are struggling, reflects my awareness that we are all cut from the same cloth of basic goodness, we all deserve to be treated as worthwhile people.
When I position the world to judge my value as an individual, I try to artificially inflate my selfesteem by drawing favorable comparisons between myself and others. I further tip the scales in my favor by focusing on what I perceive to be other people’s shortcomings.
When I lean into my basic goodness, I find myself curious about other people, their interests, passions, and their sources of inspiration. When I am engaged in a meaningful conversation, my steady self-worth enables me to suspend judgment and postpone presenting my ideas, so that I can practice deep listening.
Breathing lessons:
When I rely upon the world to determine my worth, my breathing is constrained by anxiety: Will my efforts to please others, fit in, impress people, and avoid mistakes be successful? When I rely upon the world to determine my worth, my tight breathing is accompanied by a busy mind.
When I turn to my basic goodness, my breathing, unencumbered by self-doubt and insecurity, is relaxed, expansive. I can use my breath as an anchor to ground myself in the present moment. My easy breathing settles my mind.
When I notice that my breathing is constrained, that I have turned to the world to establish my selfworth, I ask myself, “How would I breathe, right now, if I knew that I was worthy of kindness, consideration, and care; worthy of love and affection; worthy of compassion and understanding; I knew that my life held inherent value?”
My mind responds to these prompts, restoring a pattern of relaxed, expansive breathing, reflecting my knowledge of my basic goodness.
As I learn to feel whole, inherently worthy, and good enough as I am, I become more proficient at handling life’s ups and downs with equanimity and balance. I am more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.
Next I would like to learn how to cultivate persistent joy that — like my self-worth when I lean into my basic goodness — does not require specific preconditions for it to manifest: No matter the state of the world or the state of my life in any given moment, I would like to experience joy.
Oregon economy lagging
By Mia Maldonado Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregon’s economic activity is declining, population growth is slowing and unemployment is rising — all at a faster pace than the U.S.
While the state’s economy is slowing down, there’s hope for moderate growth in 2026, State Economist Carl Riccadonna told lawmakers this week.
An economic upturn in 2026 is possible as interest rates are on the decline, which usually spurs home buying, business investment and vehicle sales, he said. Tax cuts for businesses from a new law President Donald Trump signed in July will also likely stimulate more economic movement, he said.
A pending U.S. Supreme Court ruling could cut Trump’s tariffs in half, which would be good news for Oregon, Riccadonna said. Oregon is leading the lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s tariffs.
“If the Supreme Court rules against the tariffs… It’s a tax cut nationally that would be worth about $200 to $250 billion, or here in Oregon a tax cut of probably $2-3 billion.”
Girls basketball returns five experienced players
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Lady Outlaws return five experienced players to their squad this year, including senior Norah Thorsett, juniors Audrey Corcoran, and Paityn Cotner, and sophomores Maddie Durham and Verbena Brent.
Thorsett returns as the Outlaws lone senior. She will play at the guard position, and is expected to be a leader on and off the court.
Coach Kevin Cotner said, “Norah has deceptive speed and a great set shot from the perimeter. We are looking to get her many penetrate-andkick opportunities throughout the season. Like many others, Norah will be asked to contribute from multiple positions and in multiple ways. Norah is going to give you her best each and every time she steps on the court.”
Corcoran returns as the Outlaws point guard. She had a stellar season last year and earned Player of the Year honors in conference play.
“Audrey has speed that you can’t coach and the ability to penetrate defenses and push the ball in transition,” said Cotner. “Audrey will have a target on her back this year and I have no doubts that she will continue to show why
she is one of the best players in the league. I am excited to continue to watch her grow as a basketball player and leader on this team.”
Cotner is a great utility players and will play at both guard and forward.
“Paityn is able to play multiple positions and is one of our best on-ball defenders,” said Cotner. “She will be asked to play a little different role for us this year as she transitions to our four (trailing post) position, but I look forward to her continuing to do the little things that will help our team win ball games. Her heart and positive energy is contagious and we will definitely need this as we navigate a very challenging season.”
Durham will also play both as a guard and forward.
“A new and improved version of Maddie is returning for her sophomore season,” stated Cotner. “Maddie has put a tremendous amount of off-season work in the gym and also with her strength and speed. She will play multiple roles for us as we try to maximize her strengths on the perimeter, as well as her ability to battle for points in the paint. She is an exceptional free-throw shooter and we are looking to get her to the line often.”
Brent rounds out the returning varsity players. She is another player who will see time at both the guard and forward positions.
“Although Verbena is young, she plays well beyond her years,” said Cotner. “She is a natural athlete that brings a toughness and intensity that we will need throughout the year. Verbena is a relentless attacker and is able to score from multiple spots on the court. We are looking forward to her ability to rebound and push early for transition buckets.”
New to varsity this year are junior Althea Crabtree, sophomores Avery Horton and Stella Moen, and freshman Maici Cotner. Coach Cotner told The Nugget that he is very excited about the new additions and stated they all bring a unique set of skills that will make the team better.
Crabtree will play at both the forward and center positions.
“Althea is going to be a great addition to the team and a key contributor throughout the season,” said Cotner. “Her greatest gift though is her ability to be coached. She takes and applies information very quickly. I look forward to watching her continue to grow and improve as a
basketball player.”
Horton will see time at both guard and forward.
“Avery is my dark horse for most-improved player this year,” said Cotner. “She has so much growth ahead of her. She is long with a great arm reach. Her ability to impact shots in the paint is going to be key for us this year. When Avery figures out how to add intensity and fire into her game — watch out league.”
Moen will play at the guard position.
“Stella is also going to be a major contributor for us this season,” said Cotner. “Her strength lies in her speed and ability to attack the basket and she also has an underthe-radar three-point shot I am looking to see more of. Stella has a quiet intensity that we are slowly bringing to the surface. When she realizes how good she is, she is going to cause match-up problems both offensively and defensively.”
Maici Cotner is the Outlaws only freshman and will play at the guard position.
“Although Maici is young, she has a rare combination of strength and speed,” said Cotner. “I look forward to using Maici to create matchup problems on the defensive end of the court.
Her intensity is contagious and her relentless effort will continue to help propel this team throughout the season.”
Cotner shared with The Nugget his goals for the upcoming season.
“My goals for the season are for the team to see continuous improvement and to continue to love playing the game of basketball by the end of the season,” said Cotner. “I think when a team experiences so much change from one season to the next, there is often a period of regression before you see progression and I want them to stay patient early in the season. I want them to play for each other, and continue playing our high effort, high intensity, relentless style of basketball.
“These girls have a strong desire to learn and be coached, and I am just excited to be a part of it,” added Cotner. “I believe there are great things ahead for them, and I encourage our community to come watch and support these ladies this season.”
The Lady Outlaws will kick off their season on the road against Santiam Christian on Friday, December 5. The following day they will play at home against Lost River with tipoff set for 12:30 p.m.
Roundabout SISTERS
Bill Bartlett Columnist
Where does Sisters begin and end?
Here I am in Camas, Washington, for a visit and driving into town, what greets me at the first of its several roundabouts, this one at the western city limit? An attractive, natural stone landscape with a backlit, metal relief sign CITY OF CAMAS. It’s at once bold, inviting, and distinctive giving off a 24-hour vibe that implies one has arrived somewhere of significance, a place that says, “worth stopping.”
The drive to Camas took us through Madras, the largely agriculture-based town north of Redmond with a population of just under 8,000 and undergoing a bit of a renaissance. The town leaders are making a concerted effort to revamp the image of a farm town to one of a diverse blend of industry and recreation with high quality of life.
Like Camas, unlike Sisters, Madras has put up impressive monument (entry) signs at each end of town. I immediately got the same vibe. “You’re not just anywhere in the middle of nowhere.”
Who can say they’ve
never noticed the striking stone and swirled metal art signs at either end of Tumalo? Heck, Tumalo’s not even a town but it’s entry signs suggest it’s more than meets the eye. That there’s a there there.
So, where are our signs? Where is the beginning and end of Sisters? Oh, there’s the ground level, wimpy painted rock by Space Age that’s obscured by trees. Doubt you’ve noticed.
We do have the old Chamber signs at various places that greet visitors. One is midway on the Barclay bypass, well after you’re already deep into town. Seems like an odd place to put a welcome mat, halfway into the living room.
The entry signs beg the question: who’s in charge? If tourism is so vital to Sisters, why do we have so many chiefs and so few Indians?
There’s the Chamber, Explore Sisters, Sisters Business Association (SBA). On the periphery we have Visit Central Oregon and Travel Oregon, all pushing Sisters to would-be visitors.
Scott Humbert, executive director of Explore Sisters, told me, “In general, I think entry monument signs are important to destinations, especially if there is one main way in and out of a community where exposure to traffic is highly likely. That sign is the welcome handshake to our guests, communicates an initial tone for a visit, and can reinforce
destination branding.
“There are many kinds of entry signs out there, some much more expensive and elaborate than others. In a perfect world, these signs tie into a broader wayfinding system for a community.”
The Locust Street roundabout kerfuffle, to me, misses the point.
After staring at a dirt pile for six months — way to say “welcome to Sisters” — we’re about to get some very expensive landscaping. More than $150,000 worth. No art included.
And no signage, just some pretty maintenance-intense flowers and shrubs on a highway through a nameless town.
As we grow, our branding has gotten no better, and we don’t even have a decent welcome mat out. Nor a unified slogan. The Chamber runs with “The West At Its Best” and Explore Sisters headlines ”The Old West, All Grown Up.”
The only one consistent thing about the Sisters brand is the widely adopted all caps SISTERS. Look around at the hundred-plus businesses that have an allcaps SISTERS in their name. Likewise, the Rodeo, the Quilt Show, and schools. All caps all the time.
The most notable exception is this paper, The Nugget. It all began with WANTED Posters in the 1800s and that created the woodblock movement. It spread to advertising and
many other forms of vernacular graphic design. If you want to say “Old West” as simply and boldly as possible, wood type, as used on broadsides in the 1800s, was the way to go.
All-caps lettering was the hallmark of pioneer advertising. Our city logo uses all caps. Is there any more outdated, unimaginative logo than the city’s? In a town full of some of the most talented artists on the planet, how is this possible?
Why don’t we have FolkFestival-level branding citywide to match our community’s creativity?
Until we settle on one unifying manager of our branding, we will continue to have a hodgepodge of competing looks, mixed messaging, and underperforming results. If Sisters is so special, shouldn’t we make it look so?
Wouldn’t we want to look as good as Madras? Or Tumalo?
on 2nd item of equal value)
Madras makes it very obvious you’re entering Madras.
PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT
Outlaws set to strive for successful basketball season
By Rongi Yost Correspondent
The Outlaws basketball squad finished second in the tough Mountain Valley conference last year, went on to win a home state playoff game, and were just one point and one second away from a Final 8 State Tournament berth. That team graduated seven seniors, so this year’s squad will rely on a couple of returning starters, and a successful JV roster to fill out this year’s team.
Juniors Will McDonnell and Kieren Labhart are the only two players that return to the varsity squad.
McDonnell established himself as a starter midway through the non-league season last year and quickly showed he belonged there.
Will played in 26 of the 27 games for the season and averaged 7.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He also shot a team-leading 43.7 percent from behind the arc. Will earned second team allleague for his shooting proficiency and all-around solid play.
Coach Chad Rush said, “Will has worked extremely hard in the offseason on his strength and shooting. His shooting ability will make him one of the best shooters in the league this season and we will need that from him in addition to his all-around scoring, defensive presence, and leadership abilities.”
Kieren was a starter on last year’s squad, and played in 23 of the 27 games before a
wrist injury ended his season late in the year. He averaged 9.1 points and 5.2 rebounds on the season. Kieren was the third-leading scorer on the team and co-leader in rebounds per game. He was recognized honorable mention for his solid play during the season.
“Kieren is a versatile player as his height makes him more like a post, but his skills allow him to do things on the perimeter that most his size cannot do,” said Rush. “This season, Kieren will be looked upon to be a team leader in scoring, rebounding, and leadership with his previous experience from last season.”
Six additional players join the varsity team this year and round out the roster. Players include seniors Charlie Moen, Cooper Pronold, Teegan Schwartz, and Keegan Dunn, and juniors Bauer Ellis and Thomas Hamerly.
Moen had a very good JV season last year, where he showed his quickness in transition and on defense.
“Charlie seems to always find himself around the basket and is an opportunistic scorer,” said Rush. “The team will look to Charlie to provide transition scoring, solid defense, and leadership.”
Pronold has been in the program for four years and according to Rush has grown each season, both in height and as a player.
“Cooper is one of the tallest players on the team and has worked hard this off-season to develop and figure out
how that will translate to the varsity level,” stated Rush. “Cooper will look to provide an outside threat for the team while providing solid defense and rebounding.”
Schwartz is another player coming to varsity after a very good JV season. Teegan also played several varsity games last year when the team lost two players to injury and Rush noted he did a great job in those games.
“Teegan is a strong, athletic player that is going to be looked at to control the boards on both ends of the floor and also be an opportunistic interior scorer,” said Rush.
Dunn returns to the hardwood after a rehab season to repair a torn ACL in the fall of last year.
“Keegan is a great team player that is very coachable,” said Rush. “He will be looked upon to bring defensive pressure and be another threat in transition with his quickness and speed.”
Of Ellis, Rush said, “Bauer is the definition of a true point guard. He has great court vision, a high basketball IQ, and a natural leadership style, and is going to be asked to lead the offensive attack for the Outlaws, both in transition and in the half court. On the defensive end, his unending energy and competitiveness will make him a tenacious defender that will cause havoc for opposing point guards.”
Hamerly will round out the Outlaws’ roster. He also had a very good JV season
last year, and provided both rebounding and scoring for the team.
“Thomas has extremely good footwork and is patient with the ball when he has it inside, allowing him to produce scoring opportunities for himself,” said Rush. “This season, Thomas is gong to be asked to be a rebounder on both ends of the floor and provide solid defense on the perimeter and in the paint.”
Despite the loss of seven seniors from last year, Rush told The Nugget that this year’s team is eyeing another successful season with an eye on a top-league finish once again.
“With the team’s height this season, this will be the Outlaws tallest team in the
The defensive end will be where this team looks to make its mark… — Chad Rush
past several years, so controlling the boards will be an expectation and necessity to reach the goals the team has,” said Rush. “Another projected strength will be the ability to score from both the perimeter and interior with multiple players, making the team more versatile than in previous years. The defensive end will be where this team looks to make its mark, thriving to make opponents work and grind for every point.”
Trainees learned decontamination protocols and methods in training last week.
Technicians briefed emergency personnel on recognizing a hazardous materials situation and on protocols for staying safe.
Where
Hazmat training in Sisters
Sisters area emergency personnel regularly train for potential incidents that don’t happen every day — but carry high stakes when they do occur.
Last week, hazardous materials response technicians based out of Salem conducted an outreach training session with local first responders. Personnel were briefed on recognition of hazardous materials incidents and proper protocols to respond — which generally means securing an area perimeter and calling for the highly trained Salem technicians to actually manage the materials.
Personnel trained on protective equipment and decontamination methods and protocols.
to pick up your FREE copy of The
SISTERS LOCATIONS:
• 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
• Lef t Coast Lodge • Les Schwab Tire Center
• Luckey’s Woodsman • Makin’ it Local
• Martolli’s of Sisters • Mid Oregon Credit Union
• Oliver Lemon’s • Paulina Springs Books
• Philadelphia’s Steak & Hoagies
• Pine Desert Dental • Ponderosa Properties
• Rancho Viejo
• Ray’s Food Place
• Sinclair Gas Station • Sisters Ace Hardware
• 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
Getting accustomed to protective equipment is part of the hazardous materials drills.
• 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
snatched up by young, eager hands.
SPRD upped its game with a more robust sound system this year. The array of speakers stretched an entire block. Popular holiday-themed music, vocal and orchestral, was punctuated by a running commentary from SPRD Executive Director Jennifer Holland who broadcast the significance of the two dozen-plus parade participants as they passed by.
At last Santa appeared riding high in a fire truck gesturing enthusiastically to his waiting admirers. That closed the parade but there was more to follow.
“This means so much to us,” Roy and Giselle Mason said in unison. They are from Rhode Island and made the journey to Sisters for the holidays to be with their children and grandchildren, all of them in matching Santa caps.
They were typical of the hundreds of extended families taking in the parade.
Abbie and Sid Larsen drove six hours that morning from Sacramento to take in the festivities with their four Sisters grandchildren.
“Our big-city friends are envious when we get back and show them the pictures of Sisters,” Abbie said.
“They can’t believe that a little town like Sisters is so magical,” Sid added.
Such expressions of appreciation for the unhurried, simple Sisters Country life were overheard repeatedly.
“We’d like to trade in our Seattle life to be here all year,” said Beth Pritchard,
visiting her sister with her husband, Doyle. “There is such politeness and kindness here that the big cities have lost.”
“I want to bottle up all this wonderfulness, and take it back to Chicago,” said Peg Ryan. “We could use a whole lot more of what happens here.”
The muted skies and 38-degree temperature didn’t make a dent in enthusiasm. Rotary Club of Sisters poured free hot chocolate next door to The Hub where little ones were getting their picture taken with Santa. Or dropping off their letters to Santa.
Spontaneous dancing broke out on the concrete pad of the park as festive music from the bandstand kept everybody in the mood, passing time until 5:15 p.m. when the lighting of the tree concluded the Holiday Palooza.
As spectators counted down, the 65-plus-foot tree with about 2,500 lights came to life with roars of approval.
The crowds dispersed in joyous mood, many heading to the town’s eateries and watering holes, every one of which had lines of those waiting for tables. Holiday Palooza may have been over, but not the spirit and goodwill it engendered.
Shopkeepers had nothing but gratitude for Holiday Palooza and the hundreds of extra customers roaming their stores.
Holland expressed deep appreciation to the City for its considerable help getting the event ready. She gave special thanks to sponsors Sisters Woodlands and Kizziar Property Co.
Emergency office focus on food
By Mia Maldonado Oregon Capital Chronicle
In a warehouse just south of Salem the week before Thanksgiving, about a dozen state employees passed 1,500 boxes down a line, each dropping cans of beans, rice, canned fruit, and other non-perishable food items inside.
The boxes were to be distributed to Oregon Department of Human Services offices throughout the state to help low-income Oregonians. But it’s not just to give out immediate food aid, it’s an exercise Ed Flick, director of the state’s Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, said will prepare the agency to help respond in a major emergency.
The agency, which operates under the Department of Human Resources, was created in September 2020 as wildfires over Labor Day weekend destroyed more than 4,000 homes.
Since its establishment, the office has provided emergency equipment such as generators to counties, supported warming centers in winter storms and cooling centers in heat waves, offered air purified spaces during wildfires, and distributed hundreds of emergency kits filled with food, flashlights, and batteries for elderly people living in Oregon.
But the office’s role has transformed over the past five years. In addition to natural disasters, it’s preparing
to help Oregon families who fell behind during the federal government shutdown, as well as those who may no longer qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) under new eligibility requirements congressional Republicans put forth in a budget law President Donald Trump signed in July.
The one in six Oregonians who rely on SNAP were left without access to the program’s benefits in the first week of November. It took a federal court order for the federal government to restore benefits to Oregon and 21 other states after the states sued the government for withholding the funds.
The food-packing exercise corresponds with the office’s role in empowering resilience hubs, or places where Oregonians can
receive resources in cases of emergencies. The office in February awarded $10 million in grants to 87 organizations focused on serving as resilience hubs. That program is funded through House Bill 3409 passed by the Oregon Legislature in 2023.
Flick said while his office is focused on providing emergency assistance, the resilience piece means pushing Oregon families toward independence.
“We don’t just wait around for disaster,” Flick said. “We work every day to strengthen resilience, and then when emergencies occur, we support them and then step in.”
Republished under Creative Commons license
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 courtesy https://oregoncapital chronicle.com/.
Employees with the Oregon Office of Resilience and Emergency Management pack food boxes at a warehouse in Salem as part of training to see how they can respond to future food emergencies.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
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 i nfor mation c al l 5 41-5952719
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.
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.
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 Growt h R ing s Fami ly erapy. December 9 “Pl anti ng
Healthy R oots;” December
16 “ Nu rturing t he Parent.”
Free. Co ee a nd te a provided.
19 2 E . M ai 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 Sunday of t he month, 6 to 8 p.m. , ups ta ir s i n t he Sisters
Ar t Work s bui ld ing (accessible
by c ha i r l i ), 2 0 4 W. A da ms
Ave . Free . I nfo: cal l/te x t 5 4197 7- 8494
Family time at the Ranch...
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
La kes G ol f C lub i n Sisters
Meet ing s i nc lude lunc h for $ 27
RS V P requi red to a end at COFRWB end@gm ail.com
Free Veteri na ry Clin ic
CA M P (Compan ion A ni ma l
Medica l P roject) Wed ne sd ay, December 3 , f rom 10 a .m . to 12 p.m. , at COR E , 22 2 Trinity Way, o er ing no-cost wel lnes s exam s a nd pet v acci ne s (i nc luding rabies). Contact
li am @c ampc linics .org or 5 41633-39 79
Intergenerationa l
Commun it y Connec tions People of a l l age s a nd f aith s invited for F riends , Families , Food, a nd Fu n act iv it ies.
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 to 6 p.m . 5 41549-70 87
Wreaths Ac ross Amer ica Ceremony — “K eep
Movi ng Forward”
On December 13, 2 025, at 10:0 0 A M , loc a l veter an orga nization s w il l host a ceremony at V il lage Green
Pa rk to honor t he ser vice a nd
sacr i ce of Sisters veter an s l aid to rest at C amp Pol k Cemeter y.
i s yea r’s t heme, “Keep
Movi ng For wa rd ,” re ect s the enduring strengt h of our vetera ns , ou r com mu nity, and ou r sha red res ponsibil it y to c arr y t hei r storie s i nto t he futu re. e public is encou raged to a end t hi s mea ni ng fu l tr ibute. Wreat h s w il l h ave been la id on t he g raves, a nd t hi s ceremony helps ens ure our vetera ns’ legac ies l ive on—not ju st i n h istory, but i n t he hea rt of Sisters . I nfo: Ji m Mor rell 541- 610-20 98
Qu iet Wr it ing Ti me u rsday, December 4, 10 :3 0 a .m . to 12 p.m . i n t he Si sters L ibra r y - Meeti ng Room E njoy t he foc u s of a qu iet s pace w it h t he bene t of others’ compa ny. Bri ng persona l work , read a book, or a ns wer ema il s .
ves . I f you’re look ing for a loy al, f unlovi ng c ompa nion, Sug ar Cook ie cou ld be t he per fect matc h . Come meet h i m at the shelter tod ay!
Francois’ Workshop
541-549-0605
541-815-0624
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
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
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.
SIST ER S- AR EA CH UR CH ES
Ba ha’i Fa it h For i nfor mation, devot ions, study g roups, etc ., cont ac t S hauna R ocha 5 41-6
Black Butte Ranch’s tree lighting event last week drew lots of folks to a wholesome family event.
PHOTO BY CODY RHEAULT
ROADS: Speed contributes to conditions
Continued from page 1
by passing tires. Conversely, if a gravel road doesn’t have the appropriate crowned road profile, water won’t be able to drain properly. Water will then accumulate in depressions and ripples in the road, which will in turn be deepened by passing traffic.
The FHWA explains that using high-quality gravel can help mitigate or forestall some of these common washboarding issues. Selecting gravel made up of the right mixture of stone, sand, and fines — and with the necessary binding characteristic — will resist corrugation and go a long way towards reducing washboarding in the long-term.
The Nugget asked the Forest Service, “what are the primary causes of washboarding?”
“Washboarding develops on unpaved roads due to repeated loading and unloading of a vehicle’s suspension, as the surface material is scoured during loading, and deposited during unloading,” explained Jamie Olle, Public Affairs Specialist with the Deschutes National Forest.
“With each passing vehicle, the washboard begins to extend further and further past the initial imperfection, and the depth of the troughs in the wash board increases.”
Existing washboards are dramatically worsened by harsh acceleration or braking, which is why washboards are most pronounced in corners and on steep slopes. Some factors can slow the development of washboards on unpaved roads, such as gentle driving habits, good surfacing, and ideal moisture. “However, with enough traffic, washboards will develop on any unpaved surface,” she added.
When asked what the general maintenance cycle for grading (leveling) FS roads in the Sisters district is, Olle said: “The Sisters District has approximately 1,100 miles of unpaved road under its jurisdiction. Of those 1,100 miles, 65 miles are maintained for passenger vehicles. The Forest Service road crew grades about 40 miles each year, usually rotating year-to-year through the 65 miles of road that needs to be maintained for passenger vehicles.
“The Forest Service road crew serves the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. They prioritize staffing and resources based on imminent safety concerns, which often focus on wildfire suppression repair and storm recovery, and maintaining roads that provide high-traffic access for multiple uses.”
The bottom line to save your vehicle, experts say, is to slow down.
Growing up is a training ground
By Edie Jones Columnist Commentary...
In the 2025 issue of Spirit of Central Oregon, Jim Cornelius’s article “The Spirit of the Outdoors Thrives At Summer Camp” explored important information about today’s kids. Cornelius shared what social psychologist Jonathon Haidt feels is causing distress and anxiety for many. Besides the negative effects of their growing connection to technology, he talked about the urge of many parents to protect their children from challenging experiences. The article examined how a summer camp experience can counteract that tendency.
Having owned and directed a summer camp, I heartily applaud all that was said. However, now that summer has come to an end, I encourage all parents to think closely about the suggestion that they may be the main perpetrators of the problem. Being a parent (and a grandparent), I understand well how and why this happens. From the time our kids are born, we shield them from things that may cause them difficulty and harm, often going out of our way to eliminate
barriers and challenges. Psychologist Haidt was alluding to ways to counteract that tendency. I believe he would encourage parents to create and look for opportunities where challenges are directly in front of their kids. Challenges where thought and ingenuity are required to find a way out of situations, times when problem-solving skills are put to work.
We don’t have to go very far or wait until kids are very old to get this started. Every parent remembers the days when a toddler pulled up a chair to climb onto to get high enough to reach a coveted something (cookies, toy, adult item, etc.). That’s when we adults often scold, punish, or get it for them. My suggestion is to do none of that. Stand back, ready to catch them if they do start to fall, and see how far they can get. If it’s something that’s off limits, then questions are the best way to start, i.e., “What are you doing?” “Is it okay for you to have that?” or, having reached their goal, “Now that you’re up there, how are you going to get down?” The important role for a caregiver here is as an observer, watching that brain at work and guiding towards positive
conclusions.
Too many times, we start out with directions. “Don’t forget to wear a coat,” or “You’ve forgotten your lunch. It’s by the door.” What will happen if they don’t wear a coat or forget their lunch? When kids get cold, they don’t like it and will soon try to remedy the situation; come back for their coat or go inside. If they end up at school without lunch, a teacher may give you a call, or you’ll spot it before they get on the bus. Resist the urge to rescue. Being hungry for a short time isn’t going to harm them, and their lunch will be waiting for them when they get home. They probably won’t forget it very often.
As they get older, arrange situations that present challenges. Questions can lead the way. “How’s that science project going?”
“What are your plans for after school, and where and when do you need to be? How are you getting there?” “Tell me about what happened at school. How did you solve that problem?”
This is a time for active listening on your part. Let them do the thinking and talking.
Early on, become aware of what kind of “mindset”
you are implanting in your kids. Is it a “fixed” mindset or a “growth” mindset?
When kids hear often how smart, athletic, or pretty they are, they get used to thinking they don’t have to do anything to achieve a goal. Consequently, when they don’t live up to their (or your) expectations, they feel less able and as if they’ve failed. This “fixed” mindset can lead to a reluctance to try anything they are unsure about. Not the building blocks of good self-esteem.
However, when kids hear words like “You can’t do it yet, but someday you will” or “How are you going to solve that problem?” they recognize that you feel they are capable, and they try harder.
Much of this is training ourselves and being aware of our approach to whatever our kids are doing. I’m not saying you never step in to help them solve a problem or come up with an answer. I’m only saying growing up is a training ground, and just like when you entered the workforce, the learning curve can be big. You succeeded; your kids will, too, if you give them opportunities to learn and the tools to use.
Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 3
Sisters Movie House Autumn Arts & Adventure: e Schapiro: Being Ever ywhere" 6:15 p.m. o/tickets at www.sistersmoviehouse.com.
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em .m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
TUESDAY • DECEMBER 16
Sisters High School Auditorium Live Music: Sisters Community Holiday Showcase
6:30 p.m. A festive showcase of students and local talent! An unforgettable night of entertainment plus silent auctions and more to raise funds for Sisters High School music programs. Suggested donation of $5 at the door Info: kayla.golka@ssd6.org or steven.livingston@ssd6.org
tle Lodge Live Music: Dirty Jazz Come hang and listen to jazz with Wolfe House records 6 to 8 p.m. or free for Suttle guests Info: www thesuttlelodge.com.
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 17
THURSDAY • DECEMBER 4
ee Creeks Brew Pub Hoodoo Wintervention .m. Thousands in prizes including lift tickets, skis, boards, and more. Info: www.hoodoo.com.
aulina Springs Books Author reading: Kathy Watston presents "Orphans of the Living," ory following the Stovall family’s early 20th-century quest or home and redemption as they confront racism, poverty, and inequality across the American South and West 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
Suttle Lodge Live Music: Amanda Wrenn & Patrick Leonard inside The Skip Bar & Restaurant, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required: www thesuttlelodge.com.
FRIDAY • DECEMBER 5
The Belfr y Dance Party: DJ Dance Party 7 p.m.
Featuring DJ Faake & Sorskii bringing an open container of sound and movement where all are welcome Costumes, sparkles, casual, fancy...make this party exactly what you want it to be! Bring a group of friends or just yourself 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.
SATURDAY • DECEMBER 6
The Belfr y Live Music: Smoke Drifters bring their central Oregon blend of feel good Roots Rock, keeping the vibes high with a diverse sound based in folk rock, bluegrass, country and blues. 7 p.m. Tickets, BendTicket.com.
Frankie's Live Music: Mark Barringer & Bob Baker 7 p.m. Tickets: www.sistersdepot.com.
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: John Hoover & The Mighty Quinns — a tribute to the songs, music, and spiritual connection of John Denver. 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.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 coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • DECEMBER 9
Ski Inn and Taphouse Live Music: Bob Baker & Haute Melange 6 p.m. Gypsy Jazz ala Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. No Cover. 310 E. Cascade Ave.
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.
THURSDAY • DECEMBER 11
Suttle Lodge Live Music: Machado Mijiga Firesides Music Series inside The Skip Bar & Restaurant, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required: www thesuttlelodge.com.
FRIDAY • DECEMBER 12
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Casey Parnell & Co Christmas Dance Party Kick off the holiday season in style with live music, good friends, and plenty of room to dance the night away 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
Suttle Lodge Live Music: Dirty Jazz Come hang and listen to jazz with Wolfe House records 6 to 8 p.m. $15, or free for Suttle guests Info: www thesuttlelodge.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 18
Suttle Lodge Live Music: Austin Quattlebaum Firesides Music Series inside The Skip Bar & Restaurant, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required: www thesuttlelodge.com.
Luckey's Woodsman Trivia: Megan's Christmas Trivia 5:30 p.m. Info: luckeyswoodsman.com.
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: Mark D Owen presents "Wisdom: Starship Emissary," the story of a rookie crew on an untested spaceship with an implausible first contact mission of galactic importance. 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
FRIDAY • DECEMBER 19
Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft at 5 p.m. $20 Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.
SATURDAY • DECEMBER 20
The Belfr y Live Music: Never Come Down with Skillethead, Solstice Celebration! 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. A blend of modern and traditional Americana and bluegrass, characterized by thoughtful songwriting, technical skill, and dynamic arrangements, Never Come Down is a high-energy traditional stringband playing with a fresh, contemporary sound. Tickets: BendTicket.com. Frankie's (formerly Sisters Depot) Live Music: Open Mic Music lovers can enjoy a variety of local talent, 7 to 9 p.m. Sign ups, 6:30 Info: sistersdepot.com.
Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Jessie Leigh Christmas Concert this Nashville recording artist channels small-town heart, patriotic soul, and powerhouse energy into every performance. 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com.
SUNDAY • DECEMBER 21
Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
TUESDAY • DECEMBER 23
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 24
Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 7 to 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26
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.
The Lodge at Black Butte Ranch Live Music: Outlaw Jazz Combo Enjoy jazz renditions of festive tunes on guitar, bass , and saxophone For dinner reservations, call 541-595-1260
SATURDAY • DECEMBER 27
SUNDAY • DECEMBER 14
The Lodge at Black Butte Ranch Live Music: Outlaw Jazz Combo Enjoy jazz renditions of festive tunes on guitar, bass , and saxophone For dinner reservations, call 541-595-1260
SUNDAY • DECEMBER 28
Hope & Charity Vineyards Live Music: Motel Kalifornia A rockin' Christmas concert like no other! 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com. aulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
The Lodge at Black Butte Ranch Live Music: Outlaw Jazz Combo Enjoy jazz renditions of festive tunes on guitar bass and saxophone For dinner reservations, call 541-595-1260
HOME for the holidays
— By Bill Bartlett, Correspondent —
movie ends, we’re always excited to dive into decorating. It is so fun to see our final creation and bonus…you have a tasty snack, too!”
Sisters is full of hundreds, possibly thousands, of families and friends that have dropped into town for the start of the holiday season. The Redmond Airport, like all U.S. airports saw large influxes of passengers starting last Monday and continuing all week, even Thanksgiving Day when passengers snapped up discount tickets to travel on the holiday itself. Arriving just in time for dinner.
This holiday season, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expected to screen more than 17.8 million people from Tuesday, November 25 to Tuesday, December 2, with over 3 million just this past Sunday, November 30.
Jeri Buckmann said, “My absolute favorite thing to do is bake Christmas cookies. I remember doing this with my mom and at that time we baked a few dozen cookies just to have in the house. Many years passed and then I started to bake them again but this time in much bigger quantities.
They projected that the Sunday after Thanksgiving would be the busiest travel day in TSA history, certainly in the last 15 years.
AAA projected 81.8 million people will have traveled at least 50 miles from home over the Thanksgiving holiday. One only has to look at the traffic in and out of town with out of state plates to know that Sisters was indeed destination home for the holidays.
Along with the festivities and sumptuous meals it was the rollout of those cherished holiday traditions.
Jennifer Holland, executive director of Sisters Park & Recreation District shared her favorite tradition. “…watching ‘Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas,’ and building gingerbread houses with my kiddo.
“We started this years ago, and it’s become such a sweet reminder that the holidays are about enjoying the season, not just the presents. By the time the
“I make three kinds of cookies. Cutout gingerbread and sugar to decorate and then batches of gingersnaps. Of course, Bob always taste-tests the cookies to insure they are yummy. I enjoy giving someone a gift that is homemade. The process begins right before Thanksgiving so the cookies stay fresh. Decorating them while listening to Christmas music is the fun part. The ultimate best part is putting a batch together and giving them out. I look forward to this each year and I hope will continue on through my daughter and granddaughter. As my list grows, I just bake more. I have never met anyone that doesn’t love a Christmas cookie!” Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Chief Tony Prior said, “It’s a tradition for our
Sisters Dance Academy
The Sisters Dance Academy Winter Recital has become a beloved holiday tradition in Sisters. This year’s event is set for Saturday, December 13, at Sisters High School Auditorium.
The dancers will celebrate winter holiday movies with the theme “Silver Screens and Snowy Scenes.”
There are many dancers from the littlest ones through high school-aged — 290 in total — so there will be three shows. The 11 a.m. show will feature dancers ages 3 to 6, and advanced and team dancers. The 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. shows will feature dancers from second grade through high school.
Styles run the gamut from ballet to Latin to tap to hiphop and contemporary dance.
Winter enrollment starts December 16. Act early if you’re interested to share in the fun and excitement that Sisters Dance Academy has been providing the community since 2009. If classes are full get on a waiting list.
family to make Jimmy Dean sausage cheese balls as we start our Thanksgiving and Christmas days.
“Nothing better than having coffee and the smell of those cooking in the oven. It started with my mother-in-law, over 40 years ago and long before I joined the family. You could substitute the coffee with mimosas,” he said with a wink
Miki McFadden summed up what may be the number-one tradition in Sisters County: “We like to find our Christmas tree in the woods every year.”
By our count tree-hunting is neck-andneck with baking.
The National Christmas Tree Association estimates that only about one quarter of American households with Christmas trees use real trees instead of artificial ones, and an even smaller number, reportedly about 16 percent, actually go out and cut their own tree.
Still, that’s a lot of trees – about 2.5 million – and living where we do, the percentage is bound to be higher. On Saturday on Main Avenue, we counted no fewer than 38 trees atop car roofs or in pickup beds in a three-block stretch. Twenty-seven on Hood Avenue, and a dozen-plus on Cascade Avenue.
The car shown above entering the
Barclay roundabout on Saturday is one of about 100 an hour passing though Sisters in a four-hour window. Thanksgiving weekend was bustling with tree hunters switching from harvest to Christmas themes.
“Coming to Sisters to cut our tree is a 20-year family tradition,” said Alan Sawyer from Bend. He, his wife, and their two teen boys, had not one but three noble firs cascaded into the bed of their pickup.
“We don’t deadhead back to Bend. We stop for fudge and hot chocolate and drop in on our favorite stores. We load up on jerky and marionberry pies,” Helene added.
The Nichols in Black Butte Ranch gather no fewer than 28 family members from seven states.
“Then, after stuffing ourselves, we have a Zoom call with about 20 more relatives who can’t make it,” said Oona Nichols. “It’s chaos of course, but tradition.”
“Embarrassed to admit it,” said Eric Sherman who strolled Cascade along with eight family members all in “ugly sweaters.”
“We just left the Habitat store and they are all sold out of anything that one could say is ugly. Guess we’re not as crazy as we thought.”
Alpaca By Design
Wintertime is the season of the alpaca. Alpaca wool makes for the coziest, softest, warmest, and most comfortable wool items available.
Alpaca wool is lightweight, softer than cashmere, hypoallergenic, eco-friendly, stain and odor resistant, and super comfortable to wear. It’s 30 percent more breathable than comparable wools, and it’s also more water resistant.
As Wasim Muklashy says, “It’s one of the most sustainable, magical fibers there is — and they’re cute!”
Alpaca By Design offers a tremendous range of hats, gloves, sweaters, scarves, throws, capes, and more — all made from the wool of these sweet creatures, raised in Oregon. No gift could be more welcome, especially as Sisters Country enters the cold season, when we want to be comfortable — and stylish — while enjoying the outdoors.
A visit to Alpaca By Design is an enjoyable part of Sisters’ holiday shopping cycle. As Wasim says, “Come in and feel the floof.”
ECEMBER 6 & 7 11 AM TO 4 P M
Fresh-cut trees were common cargo passing through Sisters last weekend. Photo by Bill Bartlett
HOLIDAY
A strange, somewhat scary figure showed up at the Sisters Holiday Palooza parade last Saturday. No, it wasn’t a newspaper editor. Very funny.
A local photographer caught him hanging out with Santa Claus. So just who was that hairy, scary creature?
In the American Christmas tradition, Santa Claus is stuck
Holiday Parade
— Photos by Cody
Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia, South Tyrol, and parts of Northern Italy. In many of those areas, parades are devoted to appeasing his rather fearsome spirit. Krampus traditionally runs the streets on December 5, known as Krampus Night — which sounds better and much more sinister in German: Krampusnacht. It is customary to offer him schnapps.
Socialists suppressed Krampus. Perhaps they didn’t like the competition.
Krampus is a hairy, demonic critter, with cloven hooves, goat horns, and a long, red, lolling tongue. In fact, he looks very much like the Devil. In many depictions, he wears chains, symbolic of Christianity chaining the Devil. He carries birch rods with which to swat naughty children.
Krampus seems to prefer which makes -
The frightful Christmas beast has his origins in pre-Christian pagan imagery. In Norse tradition, he is thought to be the son of Hel, goddess of the underworld.
tions. Mostly he hangs out in the alpine regions of Austria, Bavaria,
The Catholic Church frowned upon celebrations of such a demonic figure, and Italian Fascists and German and Austrian National
At the turn of the millennium, Krampus made a comeback. Parades and Krampus parties abound, both in his European homeland and in the New World. Probably the revitalization of Krampus is simply the result of people looking for ways to spice up their Yuletide traditions. Or, perhaps, children have grown naughtier.Inevitably, there have been efforts to tame and commercialize Krampus, but the hairy fellow disdains the “Cute Krampus” trend, and it seems likely that it might be a dangerous affront.
Saturday marked a rare sighting of Krampus in Sisters, which may be a harbinger of things to come. If you hear cloven hooves clattering down Cascade Avenue on December 5, give the old demon a belt of schnapps — and tell him that the naughty children all live down the road in Bend.
PALOOZA
PALOOZA & Tree Lighting
Rheault
Cody
—
When the
gets out of hand
— By Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief —
Eggnog is a holiday tradition for many folks in Sisters Country. Most folks like it with a jolt of something spirited — like rum or brandy. But, as it so often does, history offers a cautionary tale of when the Christmas “spirit” gets out of hand.
What is now a favored holiday drink wasn’t always associated with Christmas. Its roots go back to medieval times in England, where it was a drink called posset — and it was reserved for the wealthy. Eggs were expensive then. Wait… well, never mind. It became a Christmas tradition because the Father of Our Country — George Washington himself — served an eggnog-like drink at Mount Vernon, fortified with spirits distilled on the plantation. (Eggnog probably didn’t start being called eggnog until somewhere around 1800.)
Homemade eggnog is, unsurprisingly, far superior to anything you can buy in a carton at a store. There are lots of recipes to be found online, including one from the wonderful blog “Tasting History,” that is probably as close as we can get to what Washington served to his party guests at Mount Vernon (https://www.tasting history.com/recipes/eggnog).
It’s hard for modern Americans to grasp just how much alcohol the folk of the early Republic put down. As the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum notes:
“At the founding of the United States, Americans were consuming alcohol at a scale almost unimaginable to us today. American alcohol consumption peaked in 1830, when each person consumed, on average, five gallons of distilled liquor each year. Assuming that men were doing about two-thirds of the drinking, that works out to each man drinking 4 to 5 shots per day, every day of the year. In addition, per capita consumption of hard cider was estimated to be at 15 or more gallons per year.
“In the early 1800s, hard cider and whiskey were the mainstay of American drinking. Apples trees were everywhere. For rural farmers, distilling corn or grain allowed them to extend the shelf-life of their agricultural products. Alcoholic beverages were often cheaper than coffee and tea, and in an era before pasteurization, safer to drink than water or milk.”
Alcohol consumption was technically prohibited at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, but cadets were adept at evading the prohibition by sneaking across the Hudson River to visit a variety of taverns, most famously, Benny Havens. As long as they kept things low-key, it
seems that the cadets benefitted from a tacit “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy when it came to fortifying the Christmas eggnog. In 1826, Superintendent Sylvanus Thayer, concerned that drinking was getting out of hand at West Point, expressly informed the cadets that this year’s Christmas eggnog would be alcohol-free. So, of course, the cadets launched an operation to smuggle gallons of whiskey across the Hudson.
The party in cadet room No. 5 in the North Barracks was in full roar at 4 a.m. on Christmas, when faculty member Captain Ethan Allen Hitchcock awoke and headed upstairs to shut the party down. Cadet Jefferson Davis, future President of the Confederate States of America, had been imbibing elsewhere, and set out like Paul Revere to warn his comrades. He burst into Room No. 5 and shouted, “put away the grog! Captain Hitchcock is coming!” Unfortunately for Davis, Captain Hitchcock was already in the room. The incensed faculty member read the cadets the Riot Act (literally) and demanded that they disperse to their quarters. Davis did, which took him out of what happened next.
Other cadets, well into their fortified eggnog, exhibited all the judgement of drunken young men in their late teens and early 20s, and they ran amok. They broke Hitchcock’s windows and ran up and down the halls of the North Barracks with muskets and somebody fired off a pistol. They broke dishes, ripped down bannisters, and smashed furniture.
By the time reveille sounded at dawn, the North Barracks were a shambles. The cadets in the South Barracks had a silent night, and they evaded any punishment. Ultimately, 19 cadets were courtmartialed and sentenced to be dismissed from the Academy. Eight of those got a reprieve. A bunch more received other punishments short of dismissal.
Jefferson Davis did not participate in the riot and was not court-martialed, though he did spend six months confined to quarters. Robert E. Lee, he of unblemished record, did not participate in any of the night’s rowdiness, but he and Davis both apparently offered testimony in support of their comrades at court-martial. History offers many lessons to those who are willing to delve in and pay attention. The Great Eggnog Riot of 1826 would seem to offer a couple: Forbidden fruit and pent-up demand can be explosive. And our forefathers are no example of how to behave at the office Christmas party.
Makin’ it Local
Those who appreciate the authenticity of art created by artisan hands in Oregon know that Makin’ it Local is the place to find quality work presented well in a professional gallery.
Many of the artists represented at Makin’ it Local are well-known to folks in Sisters — others the gallery is proud to introduce. The gallery has just brought on a new potter, and they are excited about her work.
Darah Lundberg is a Portland-based ceramic artist known for crafting functional pottery with a sculptural, organic sensibility. Blending stoneware, porcelain, and atmospheric firings, her work reflects the quiet rhythms of the natural world while offering pieces meant to be used, held, and enjoyed every day.
Her signature style pairs strong, inviting forms with subtle surface details. Each piece carries a sense of place, process, and the artist’s fascination with pathways, circles, nature, and the stories objects can hold.
Visit Makin’ it Local to seek out meaningful gifts that say something profound, beautiful, and authentic and will resonate through the years.
Paulina Springs Books
For many folks, there’s no gift better than a good book. Even better is a gift certificate that allows the bookish person on your list the delicious luxury of browsing for treasure at Paulina Springs Books.
Sisters’ landmark bookstore has a new website that allows for full e-commerce services; they can ship your order or you can pick it up — and you’re supporting a local, independent shop from wherever you are.
Paulina Springs Books has become a community hub with events from author visits to game nights. Keep an eye out this winter as they announce new clubs, more demo game nights, and a focus on community gatherings through the dark of winter.
Paulina Springs offers a nice place to stop and relax in the midst of the holiday hubbub. Come in, slow down, hang out, sample one of over 100 demo games — and enjoy the season at a reasonable pace. You can also spark the love of reading by purchasing an ornament/gift through the annual Giving Tree book drive.
Cascade Spirits Tasting Room
Nestled in Sisters, Oregon, the Cascade Spirits Tasting Room embodies the beauty and creativity of the Cascades. Here you’ll find Wild Roots, Broken Top, Cascade Street Potato Vodka, and Sun Ranch showcased through awardwinning vodkas, gins, whiskeys, wines, and cocktails crafted with care. Enjoy a flight or a cocktail and take in the relaxed charm that makes Sisters such a special place.
Fika Sisters Coffeehouse
Fika Sisters Coffeehouse brings a touch of Scandinavian heritage to Sisters in celebration of St. Lucia Day on Saturday, December 13.
There will be cookie decorating and St. Lucia crafts for kids, music, and a local author reading Christmas stories for kids. Enjoy bread pudding, visit craft vendors, and Mellness will be on hand to share wellness information.
Fika is always a go-to resource for the holidays. You can get to-go orders for your family gettogethers with delicious baked items like quiche, scones, or bread.
And Fika is just a wonderful place to pause for a moment and “take fika,” to meet up with friends and spend some time together in the true Swedish spirit of enjoying the moment. You can do it in holiday style too. Fika Sisters Coffeehouse is decorated for the holidays and is offering seasonal drinks like peppermint mochas and eggnog gingerbread lattes.
Take a break and celebrate the season at Fika.
Holidays Events
Thursday • December 4
Three Creeks Brew Pub 6-8 p.m. Presented by Hoodoo Ski Area. Win lift tickets, gear, skis, boards & more. Free for all ages.
Friday • December 5
First Friday + busking Downtown 4-7 p.m. presented by businesses of Sisters Business Association.
Holidays at The Hub 4-7 p.m. hosted by Citizens4Community and Commonplace Homeschool Coop. Information: https:// citizens4community.com/events/holidays-hub
Camp Sherman Holiday Bazaar at Camp Sherman Community Hall, 13025 Metolius River, Camp Sherman. 5-8 p.m. Presented by Camp Sherman Community Association.
Saturday • December 6
Visit with Santa at Spoons, 473 E. Hood Ave., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Information: 541-719-0572
Santa’s Open House at The Fort Wakefield House, 12-3 p.m. hosted by Advantage Mortgage.
Pictures with Santa, coffee, hot cocoa and treats!
Santa Claus is Visiting Sisters Bakery, 251 E. Cascade Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon. Photos and ornament making. Information: www.facebook.com/sistersbakeryoregon
Camp Sherman Holiday Bazaar at Camp Sherman Community Hall, 13025 Metolius River, Camp Sherman. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Presented by Camp Sherman Community Association.
Ugly Sweater Run
Downtown Sisters, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Presented by Run Sisters Run. Check in at 9, kids run at 9:50, main run 10-11:30 a.m. followed by awards and ugly sweater competition at The Barn 11:30-11:50. Information: www.runsistersrun.com
“Let’s Sing! Holiday Edition” (part 1) at The Barn in Sisters 12-1 p.m. Presented by Citizens4Community, immediately after the Ugly Sweater Run. Information: https://citizens4community.com/ events/lets-sing-dec-25-1 Metolius Preserve Tree Hunt
Join the Land Trust for family-friendly event! Cut your own free-range holiday tree, enjoy hot drinks, wreath making, and merriment! 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information: www.deschuteslandtrust.org/ hikes-events/hikes/tree-hunt-2024
John Denver Tribute Christmas Concert at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, 5-8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
Sunday • December 7
Breakfast with Santa at FivePine. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Community seating, buffet breakfast, all proceeds go to FAN. Registration required: https://fivepine-lodge-andconference-center.square.site
Holiday Makers Market
at The Barn in Sisters, 171 E. Main Ave., featuring an amazing selection of local artists. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Thursday • December 11
Winter Joy:
A Performance by Black Butte School 6 p.m. at Camp Sherman Community Hall. Students will perform short plays and songs. Free and open to the public. Information: 541-595-6203
Friday •December 12
Winter choir concert #1 at Sisters Community Church, 7 p.m.
Presented by High Desert Chorale & Bell Choir
Casey Parnell & Co Christmas Dance Party at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, 5-8 p.m.
Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
Saturday • December 13
Winter Dance Recital: Silver Screen& Snowy Scenes presented by Sisters Dance Academy at Sisters High School auditorium, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. Tickets & information: www.danceinsisters.com
St. Lucy Day holiday celebration at Fika Sisters Coffeehouse, 6:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Christmas reading from Melody Carlson, gingerbread decorating, music, a St. Lucia children’s craft, and more. Santa Claus is Visiting Sisters Bakery, 251 E. Cascade Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon. Photos and ornament making. Information: www.facebook.com/sistersbakeryoregon
Sunday • December 14
Breakfast with Santa at Black Butte Ranch Lodge. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., reservations required. Information: BlackButteRanch.com/Holidays Winter choir concert #2 at Sisters Community Church, 2:30 p.m. Presented by High Desert Chorale & Bell Choir
Ladies Ornament Exchange at Friends & Vine, 2-4 p.m. Bring an ornament to exchange. Wine for sale.
Motel Kalifornia Christmas Concert at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, 5-8 p.m. Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
Tuesday • December 16
Sisters Community Holiday Showcase
A festive showcase of students and local talent! An unforgettable night of entertainment plus silent auctions and more to raise funds for Sisters High School music programs. Suggested donation of $5 at the door. Info: kayla.golka@ssd6.org or steven.livingston@ssd6.org
Wednesday • December 17
Solstice Book Flood community gathering and paperback book exchange at Paulina Springs Books, 252 W. Hood Ave., 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Information: paulinaspringsbooks.com
Thursday • December 18
Snow Much Fun
Winter songs, crafts, stories, and more, for ages 3–11. 3 to 4 p.m. at Sisters Library. Information: https://dpl.libnet.info/event/14386221 Hoodoo Wintervention at Three Creeks Brewing presented by Hoodoo Ski Area. Win lift tickets, gear, skis, boards, and more. Free for all ages. 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday • December 19
Christmas Movie & Ugly Sweater Contest at Cold Springs Resort 6 to 8:30 p.m. Information: www.coldspringsresort.com
C4C Hosting Let’s Sing! at The Lodge, 4–5 p.m., 411 E. Carpenter Ln.; sing along at this free family-friendly caroling party! Information: www.citizens4community.com/ events/lets-sing-dec-25-2
Saturday • December 20
Wagon Rides & Photos with Santa at Cold Springs Resort 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Information: www.coldspringsresort.com
Breakfast With Santa at Frankie’s 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Two seatings at 10 and 11:30; can book in advance. Information: www.sistersdepot.com
Jessie Leigh Christmas Concert at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: ww.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
HUNTERS: Season was on par with 2024, short of 2023
out looking good then it got warm. Plus, the lack of snow makes it harder to track elk so that could affect counts. We’ll know more in January.”
Dale Hardesty is a hunting guide specializing in the nearby Ochoco Mountains. For decades now, the Ochocos have been recognized as a premium big game hunting region for both trophy Rocky Mountain elk and mule deer.
“We had to work a little harder this year. Generally, this season is on par with 2024. Everybody’s still comparing to the great 2023,” Hardesty said.
Over-winter survival was generally good for Oregon’s deer and elk herds. Parts of the state even got a reprieve from years-long drought this spring but dry conditions came back in late summer and fall, and big game body condition heading into the fall season varied by district Walsh’s agency reports.
Black-tailed deer, long thought to be broadly struggling, are showing signs of stabilization and even local increases where newer population models and field observations indicate better overwinter survival and strong spring green-up.
North Coast, Central Cascades, and Coast Range reports describe steady numbers and good forage this year. Concerns include loss of movement corridors due to roads and development, which hampers migration and connectivity, and a worrying rise in illegal use of thermal imaging devices that makes poaching harder to detect and may be harming populations.
In Eastern Oregon, mule deer continue a slow regional decline, but trends vary by unit. Some areas show stable numbers and reasonable hunting success
rates – around 30 percent, while other units report slight declines, lower fawn recruitment, or fewer animals entering winter. Spring green-up improved survival in many places, though some fawn survival was below expectations.
Roosevelt elk on the west tended to struggle relative to historical numbers, while Rocky Mountain elk east of the Cascades are said to be doing well, often exceeding management objectives.
ODFW says recent estimates place Rocky Mountain elk above objective levels and Roosevelt elk below target in some regions. Distribution shifts are notable. Elk increasingly use private industrial timberlands and agricultural areas that provide steady forage, reducing use of some public forests. This complicated hunter access and increased agricultural conflict.
Some districts report good bull and calf ratios and saw solid fall hunting opportunities. Others report low bull ratios and lower hunter success. The expanding wolf population is a growing management concern, and stakeholders are seeking improved understanding of wolf impacts and contin gency strategies where ungu late populations fall short of objectives.
Pronghorn numbers are generally stable statewide the agency says, but sensitive to weather. Good spring moisture is expected to help recovery in depleted high desert herds, and hunter success typically exceeded 50 percent.
Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep face localized pneumonia outbreaks affecting lamb and ewe survival, though many hunts remain successful. Rocky Mountain goats show stability and widespread in specific ranges, with an estimated statewide population around 1,100–1,300.
“The big story,” Walsh said, “is for 2026. Starting in 2026, deer hunts will be organized by Deer Hunt Areas instead of traditional Wildlife Management Units (WMUs). This transition is based on new research showing that deer move across multiple WMUs throughout the year, making old systems less effective for population monitoring and harvest management.
“Hunters will need to make adjustments.”
There are 323,516 licensed hunters in Oregon. Matt Labhart of Sisters is one of the seven ODFW
Oregon fuel supply in state of emergency
By Alex Baumhardt Oregon Capital Chronicle
A BP pipeline carrying 90 percent of Oregon’s transportation fuel has been shut down since November 17 following a discovered leak. The disruption to the state’s fuel supply, and the potential for impacts at the pump and at airports during a busy holiday travel season, prompted Gov. Tina Kotek to declare a state of emergency Tuesday, November 25, that will last through December 24, unless conditions change. BP officials on Wednesday, November 26, said they had partially restarted the pipeline.
Oregon’s emergency order will allow fuel suppliers and state agencies to bring more fuel into the state via truck and train and temporarily waive some reporting and fee-based regulations related to transporting fuel into the state.
Oregon is not experiencing supply constraints, according to a news release from Kotek’s office. She does not expect flights at Portland International Airport or other Oregon airports will be impacted, but she is working with the Port of Portland to ensure supplies reach the
airport. Some airlines operating flights out of Washington have had to adjust due to fuel supply issues, according to local news reports, and some long-haul flights have rerouted to out-of-state airports to refuel, causing some delays.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency over the pipeline on November 19, two days after BP shut down the pipeline and more than a week after employees discovered the leak in Snohomish County east of Everett on November 11. It is the second disruption the pipeline has had in the last three months and the second leak in two years.
During the last Olympic Pipeline outage in September, gas prices in Oregon jumped 16 cents in a single week, according to AAA. Average gas prices jumped eight cents in Washington and nine cents in Oregon during the last Olympic Pipeline leak in late June 2023.
Any evidence of price gouging during the current emergency should be reported to the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Services, Kotek’s office said.
No changes are planned
Mule deer.
PHOTO COURTESY ODFW
house. It was placed on auction to be moved.
Bangs recalled, “Jim grew up with a real appreciation of structures and history. He could see the potential and saw no sense in somebody tearing down such a structure, especially that house. So, he crawled underneath the entire structure and said, ‘I think it’s a doable project, and we have this property that’s only like two and a half blocks away’... And he made what turned out to be the only bid. It was a dollar.”
They moved the house to its current location on Larch Street and Main Avenue, and began a laborious restoration project. Many parts of the house, including the central chimney and widows walk had to be rebuilt. Bangs credited Master Craftsman Eugene Dod for his work on the restoration, saying, “It was a wonderful reclamation and without Eugene Dod it would not have been what it turned out to be. He was truly a master craftsman.” She said she loved the fact Eugene could drop his tools wherever he was using them,
and they were never stolen.
Bangs recalled that Eugene often worked on the house at night after he finished other jobs. His wife Norma used a wheelchair, and would come with him many nights, sitting in the car, wrapped in blankets, listening to music, with headlights shining on the house.
The Allen house’s famous etched glass door with a stag or deer was a special challenge and Bangs said it was one of their favorite parts of the effort. Timberman Harold Barkley had earlier rescued the original door and moved it to his house in Indian Ford. They met at the Barkley’s with an artist who copied the design, and they recreated the door for the west building entrance. On October 24, 1992, the house was dedicated by Deschutes County as a Historic Landmark. Bangs and Massey left Sisters in 1999 to sail, and built houses across the world. Jim Massey passed away in 2017.
The house has had many lives. It has been a home, a flower shop, and a real estate office. Ali Mayea has owned the Allen House for nine years, and said, despite all the plumbing, heating, and gardening work it needed, “It has good bones.” Mayea said the house was going through
one of its biggest transitions now as it is being leased to a Hair and Nail Salon, with updates to the inside and painting.
Mayea had her real estate office in the house and remembered, “It was a real feel-good place. A lot of nice people came through to see it. I miss sitting on the porch. It was a fun gathering place.”
She said the corner traffic was sometimes good entertainment on a slow afternoon. You have to wonder if
traces of Hardy and Daisy Allen’s spirit of hospitality seeped into the bones of their house, surviving in old wood,
through its many lives. If so, it’s a sweet haunting, with a warm greeting and the promise of lunch.
Advertising: Kimberly Young, ads@nuggetnews.com
News & Letters to the Editor: Jim Cornelius, 541-390-6973 (cell), editor@nuggetnews.com
Classifieds, Subscriptions, Announcements: Wendy Bachmeier, nugget@nuggetnews.com Events, Poetry: Jess Draper, jess@nuggetnews.com
The Hardy Allen house today.
PHOTO BY MARET PAJUTEE
Sisters Country birds
By Douglas Beall Correspondent
The American peregrine falcon (F. p. anatum) occurs throughout much of North America from Alaska and Canada south to Mexico, and is one of the most widely distributed raptors. Its full range extends from the tundra to the tropics and contains a wide range of habitats from wetlands, deserts, forests, and islands. In Oregon their breeding habitats include a variety of locations from cliffs in the high desert, on coastal rocks, to tall buildings or bridges within the urban landscape.
The females are larger than the males but both sexes have similar plumage with long pointed wings and a long tail. Adults are blue-gray above and have light breast feathers. They are known as the fastest bird in the world, capable of reaching 150 to 200 mph in their dives and their average cruising speed is 24 to 33 mph and can increase to 67 mph when chasing prey. Peregrines do not build nests like most other birds, instead they lay their eggs in a “scrape” or shallow
indentations high on a cliff side, or human-made structure, such as a building or bridge. The two to five eggs are laid and incubate for about 32 days and stay in the nest for 45 more days before fledging.
The chicks are fed a diet of mostly birds and an occasional bat.
Historically, peregrine falcons were once prevalent across North America, and the rest of the world.
Prior to World War II, the breeding population in the United States was estimated at 3,875 pairs which dropped to 324 in 1975. In the early 1900s peregrine falcons experienced loss of habitat, were indiscriminately shot, their eggs were taken by egg collectors. The most impactful threat to the population was the widespread use osf the pesticide DDT.
Peregrine means “wanderer” or “pilgrim.” A group of falcons is known as a “caudron,” a “kettle,” a “bazaar,” a “Cadge,” or a “cast.”
View more Peregrine images at https://abirdsings becauseithasasong.com/ recent-journeys/.
GAS
Cooper of Sisters is a Republican precinct captain and one of the signature collection volunteers. He was joined by Chris Dudley also of Sisters. Dudley is a former Blazers center and a 16-year NBA veteran. He played for the Blazers from 1993 to 1997, and then again from 2001 to 2003.
Dudley is reported to be considering a second run for Oregon governor.
“The enthusiasm is amazing,” said Cooper. “People are lining up and signing even knowing that we already have twice the signatures we need. It’s a quick pace with lots of energy.”
One signer was overheard telling Dudley, “I’m at the breaking point. I can’t afford these increases. Living in Sisters is already beyond my means, everything is so expensive.”
Rae and Courtney Murray shopping in Sisters from Bend listened intently to Cooper’s pitch but decided against it. “What’s the alternative?” Murray asked. “Not getting the roads plowed?”
“Are there no other options?” Rae asked. “It seems like it’s always an all or nothing issue. Why is it always a fight?”
The minimum requirement to put the measure on the ballot for the 2026 midterms is 78,116 signatures. As of November 25, over 150,000 signatures have been collected, according
to organizers.
“We are making Oregon history. This is the largest volunteer signature effort the state has seen in years — possibly ever,” Diehl told a press gathering. “People aren’t just willing to sign; they’re seeking us out. Oregonians want the right to vote on these taxes and fees, and they know Salem is not representing their interests.
“They voiced their opposition repeatedly through the regular session and again during the emergency session, but the Governor and the Democrat majority ignored them and rammed this bill through anyway. At some point, the people have to rise up and say ‘no more,’ and that’s exactly what we’re seeing with this movement.”
On the day of the bill’s passage, Gov. Tina Kotek criticized the referral effort, saying it would cause problems and fail to address statewide transportation needs.
“Frankly, I would urge Oregonians to think about signing on to a referral that would take away our basic ability as Oregonians to keep our roads operating,” Kotek said at a press conference.
The legislation, which goes into effect December 31, includes a new charge for electric vehicles, bumps to the payroll tax, vehicle registration and title fees. It is expected to bring in $4.3 billion over the next decade.
The bill includes a sixcents-per-gallon gas tax hike, and a mandatory payper-mile program for electric and high-efficiency vehicles intended to offset lower gas tax receipts, and a revised weight-mile tax system to address overpayments by truckers.
“This bill helps us to keep state highways and local roads safe and open to traffic while preserving transit service and halting the pending layoffs of essential transportation staff,” Kotek wrote in her letter accompanying the bill’s signing. “I am grateful to the legislature for stepping up to keep our state moving, alongside a broad coalition of cities, counties, workers, truckers, businesses, and the AAA.”
State Republican lawmakers repeatedly vowed to refer the bill’s tax and fee hikes to voters in 2026.
“If the Secretary of State ultimately certifies that the petitioners have gathered enough signatures, the emergency funding that the legislature provided to keep Oregon’s roads, bridges, and transit systems safe and working will be suspended immediately,” Kotek said in a written response to the petition effort.
“The proponents of the referral do not have a viable backup plan for making sure Oregonians have basic transportation services. Please ask them to explain their plan in detail,” she concluded.
American peregrine falcon.
PHOTO BY DOUGLAS BEALL
Sisters songwriter marks ‘Awakening’
By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
“My guitar has been my best friend,” says Rod Garrett. “Kind of my meditation, my passion. The thing that’s been a constant in my life is my guitar.”
Sitting meditatively with that guitar, Garrett has produced many songs. And those songs now have a home on a new CD, titled “Awakening,” recorded over a period of two years in Sisters at the studio of respected producer and multi-instrumentalist Lino Alessio. Stephanie Spade contributed backup vocals, and Jo Booser played violin.
Garrett told The Nugget that he had most of the songs ready to go when he entered the studio.
“Some of them I’d written 10 years ago,” he said. “The only one I really wrote for the album was the title, the ‘Awakening’ song. I’ve got enough songs backlogged for another two CDs.”
Garrett has always wanted to record, since he started playing his first electric guitar at the age of 17. He started out trying to learn licks from favorite bands like Iron Maiden and the Scorpions. He acknowledges that it wasn’t till he got an acoustic guitar that he got
serious about learning the instrument — and got into songwriting.
“I had a friend who was a really good songwriter,” he recalled. “And whenever we’d get together, he’d say, ‘Hey, check out my new song.”
Garrett wanted to have something to bring to the table, too — so he started writing.
Music sometimes had to take a back seat to work. Garrett moved from Roseburg to Eugene and started working in the woods planting trees. That hard, physical labor left little time or energy for writing.
“Tree planting, you’re up in the dark and home in the dark,” he said.
Ultimately, he moved to La Pine and then to Sisters, and was able to pick the music back up.
The recording of “Awakening” took a couple of years — but that was because there were some breaks in the work. Garrett credits Alessio for important input as a producer. For example, he pushed Garrett to make the song “Home Where I Belong” more than it was when it came into the studio.
“He said, ‘You know, it’s not really a song yet,’” Garrett recalled.
Garrett’s work is consciously designed to be upbeat, even when the lyrics reflect the sadder or darker aspects of the human condition. He rewrote a song titled “Alone In Heaven” to “Life 101,” taking what had been a plaintive song and making into an anthem of learning, growth, and resilience.
He appreciates everyone who supported his debut recording effort.
Garrett has been mostly focused on writing and recording, but he has been doing some live work with seniors, which he finds gratifying.
“Basically, I’ve been doing retirement homes, care facilities,” he said.
At those gigs, he plays old covers.
“It brings them back,” he said. “Music has a way of doing that.”
“Awakening” is available through Apple Music, but Garrett prefers that people purchase CDs directly from him. Inquire at roddean. garrett@gmail.com. He is currently working on placing CDs at retail outlets in Sisters.
Rod Garrett has released a CD titled “Awakening,” with striking cover art created by his friend Anne Menard.
PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS
AUTHOR: Book delves into myth and neuroscience
Continued from page 3
involvement in a variety of business ventures exposed him to a whole library of business books focused on building success and developing leadership — books he says can generally be “summarized in about a minute.”
Most advice approaches problems with a strictly rational, problem-solving mindset. King finds that dissatisfying, especially as we face challenges such as the emergence of revolutionary AI technology and a high level of political chaos.
“It seemed for me and to me that there was not a way to get through it rationally,” he said.
The standard selfhelp advice is to “make a plan.” That’s not adequate, King asserts.
“It turned out that that was not particularly good advice,” he said. “What we need is wisdom.”
From King’s standpoint, developing wisdom is a means both of recognizing that uncertainty is
ever-present and a way of navigating that uncertainty. In defining and laying out a path toward developing wisdom, King delves into spiritual traditions, ethics, and modern insights into neuroscience. The book is rife with citations.
“I wanted credibility, frankly,” said King of his detailed sharing of source material. “I wanted it to be clear that I wasn’t making this stuff up.”
King, who writes under SJ King to avoid confusion with another author of the same name, emphasizes that his take on wisdom is contrary to the notion of withdrawing and meditating to achieve that state. King sees wisdom as both a function of and a means to deep involvement in the world, connection and a high level of alertness to patterns and actions.
“Withdrawal and meditation may be good for stress,” he said. “It’s certainly not going to give you wisdom. You have to step in to participation in the world. You’re not going to become wiser if you don’t participate in the world.”
“The Inner Compass” offers concrete methods to develop capabilities in living comfortably with uncertainty,
recognizing and understanding patterns, and harnessing intuitive understanding and subconscious awareness. Wisdom, which creates a certain comfort in fluid environments, allows for adaptability and creates an opportunity for what King calls “grounded action.”
Through the seeking of wisdom and comfort in uncertainty, a person can develop a new level of confidence.
“You try to increase knowing and decrease doubting,” King said.
He cited the traditional Sisters Folk Festival afterparty held at Angeline’s Bakery as an example of adaptability and people thriving in uncertainty. Musicians, most of whom don’t know each other and haven’t played together before, get on stage and work together intuitively, jamming and creating magical moments out of what initially seems like potential chaos.
“Jamming” such as this requires both structure and improvisation, confidence and humility — and a willingness to step into the unknown. It can be applied to whatever course one is on in life.
“The Inner Compass” is available wherever you purchase books.
River permit period extended
The Bureau of Land Management is extending the deadline to apply for new special recreation permits for guiding activities on sections of the Lower Deschutes River and the Lower Crooked River south of Prineville. On the lower 100 miles of the Lower Deschutes River, these permits cover guiding activities that require non-motorized watercraft, such as rafts, drift boats, and standup paddle boards. On the Chimney Rock segment of the Lower Crooked River, permits cover land (hiking), bank-based (fishing), or water-based activities.
The BLM will accept applications for these special recreation permits through Dec. 15. Approved permits will be valid starting in the 2026 season.
The Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River is a remarkable resource that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Guide and outfitter businesses facilitate access to recreation opportunities and support local communities and create jobs. The BLM, Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Wasco County, and State of Oregon work collaboratively to manage the river for its recreational values.
The Lower Crooked Wild and Scenic River is an 8-mile segment that runs between
Bowman Dam and mile marker 12 on State Highway 27. The river is known for outstanding scenic, fish, and recreation values.
The Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Management Plan authorizes the number of permitted guides and outfitters to increase by 5 percent each year. This year, up to four new special recreation permits
(SRPs) are available on the Lower Deschutes River.
The prospectus and SRP application are available on the BLM Prineville website at https://www.blm.gov/office/ prineville-district-office.
Completed packets can be delivered to the Prineville BLM Office at 3050 N.E. 3rd St., Prineville, Oregon 97754 and must be received by 4:30 p.m. December 15.
Stephen King has compiled years of exploration into a new book that seeks to help readers develop the skills and traits that bring wisdom.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Continued from page 3
We stayed at the Lagou Raxi country hotel, a stunning mountaintop property overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf which connects to the Euboic Sea.
In Lavkos, Nakagawa took her nature journaling group on walks down stone pathways rubbed smooth by hundreds of years’ worth of shoes treading into the historic downtown of Lavkos. We were surprised and grateful for the Greek tradition of always welcoming the stranger. Since we toured Greece in the off-season, we found ourselves in a variety of celebrations and community events from a celebration of a priest’s naming day to visiting the Serpentine Gardens found down a steep, narrow path that ended at an elderly woman’s home and garden built over decades of gathering seeds from around the world and planting them in her hillside gardens. After the garden tour, we were driven by our guide, George, to Skiathos where we could swim in pristine blue Mediterranean Aegean waters entered by walking over smooth, white stones instead of sand.
Our first days in Greece began in Athens. We toured the Parthenon, a magnificent temple on the grounds of the Acropolis above Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena. We took tours through the city, took a ferry and visited the islands of Poros and Aegina, and walked around ancient cities made of carved cream-colored stone and wooden roofs. Our stay was extended due to a nationwide transportation strike in the city. Even in the face of adversity and political unrest, the Greek people were kind and helpful. We soon adopted the mantra, “Go with the flow,” which helped us adjust to changes in our itinerary and the always-present possibility that what we thought was going to happen could be erased and replaced by something even more intriguing, impactful, and important for our Greek adventure.
When we left the fast paced, churning energy of Athens, our driver told us living in a rural place with a slower, quieter tone suited him much better. We enjoyed Athens, marveled at the very few houseless people, (Greece has universal healthcare) the delicious feta, olives, pistachios and other fresh foods. The gelato shops drew us in with their rainbow colors and enticing flavors. On more than one occasion, we chose to skip our next meal and replace it with the
cold, creamy deliciousness of fresh, soothing dessert.
We visited the first place the Olympics were held in Delphi in 582 BCE. Climbing worn and uneven stone stairs up another hillside our guide, Elia, an archeologist, told us about the ancient Olympics with only a handful of competitions that had a women’s and men’s division. We trudged up spiraling stairs to the location of the races that had the top female and male athletes
competing for the honor of winning awards that included free food for life from the Greek government. The winning athletes were treated like modern-day rock stars and given the best of everything. Elia said only the chariot races excluded women, every other competition had the best female athletes competing against each other.
Elia also explained that even though she had a PhD in Archeology, she was
unable to work on digs in Greece. The balance of power between males and females digressed into a current day patriarchy that relegated her to being a tour guide or teacher. She was so proud of her country’s Olympic origin story but felt the sting of the current culture’s efforts to keep her away from the important work of discovering more of the original stories held in ancient stone carvings jumbled and broken beneath the earth.
Until we heard her words, we were unaware of the divide between women and men and their ability to follow their professional paths. It made us thankful for our country and the possibilities women have in the U.S.
One of our final destinations was in Meteora located in Trikala, Thessaly. Twentyfour ancient stone Eastern Orthodox monasteries were built mainly in the 14th century on the tops of monolithic rocks rising like skyscrapers well over a thousand feet into the air. The massive rock pillars required us to climb hundreds of stairs with both Greek pilgrims and tourists. Out of respect for the location and religious rules, we were asked to wear a large scarf to cover up our legs which even in pants were too provocative for the current residents.
We wondered how the first monks learned to climb the rocks and make it to the top. We learned they used long ladders and large nets or baskets to haul up their building materials and people. In the 1920s steps were cut into the rock and the first woman, Queen Marie of Romania, was allowed to visit. She was the first woman to visit the Meteoron monastery. We left after visiting three of the monasteries. Our legs were
We were proud of our intrepid group’s ability to overcome adversity that included all of us getting sick, arduous climbs up steep mountains, and a few disruptive tourists ... — Katy Yoder
tired and our minds full of questions and awe as we tried to grasp the enormity of building such beautiful, strong structures above the farm land and towns below. Our journey back was long and full of surprises and often unsuccessful attempts at sleep. We were proud of our intrepid group’s ability to overcome adversity that included all of us getting sick, arduous climbs up steep mountains, and a few disruptive tourists who brought discord into our overwhelmingly positive experiences in Greece. As we sat in Seattle waiting for our last flight, one of our group spoke, “Well, where are we going next?” We all laughed and agreed, we were well-suited traveling companions. We were able to support each other with encouraging words; lending cough drops, socks, and Ibuprofen and giving each other grace when we were having a rough moment. We arrived home happy, grateful, and appreciative for our lives in Central Oregon. Traveling has a way of revealing what’s important and reminding us of the blessings all around us. From now on, we’re calling ourselves, the “Greek Sisters!”
The Greek Sisters at the Parthenon. The Sisters women enjoyed each others company on a trip of a lifetime.
PHOTO COURTESY KATY YODER
Susan Prince, Kathy Marshall, and PJ Hunter at Monasteries of Meteora.
PHOTO COURTESY KATY YODER
FUN AND GAMES
WINTER W ORDFIND
S R W T B T B Q F X L O N S
C N P O I X B L D R P U L U
B X O P N R C C I V O E Z E
X S L W F S Q O W Z D S W U
O Q G F F G U L Z D Z C T S
A D F N Y L V D I Y F A E Y
W I N T R Y A N B C Q L R W
F F N Q M M G K H I C S D D
G N I Z E E R F E I H K E J
Y R E T S U L B C A I I T E
S A W Q D E X I C Z L I E V
S N O W S T O R M L L N H D
C Y X Q X V O M Q N Y G Z Y
M L O Z B D A M B E B M Q I
Find words forward, backward, horizontally, or diagonally.
SNOWFLAKE COLD SLEDDING FREEZING SNOW ICY ICICLES WINTRY BLIZZARD CHILLY BLUSTERY SNOWSTORM FROSTY SKIING
SUDOKU Easy Peasy!
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down, and each small nine-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.
C OMPLETE THE W ORD S
FIND 1O DIFFERENCE S, THEN COLOR
Stars over Sisters
By Georgia West Guest Columnist
December is a wonderful month, full of festivities and holiday spirit; and in Central Oregon, it means cool, clear nights, with a sky full of stars. One constellation I suggest you watch out for this December is Aries. Aries is one of the twelve zodiac constellations. Zodiac constellations are unique because they lie across the apparent path of the sun. This is also known as the ecliptic, which means that the Sun passes through these constellations over the course of the year. Over time, these constellations have been associated with various mythological figures and animals.
Aries is the ram, a creature that is prevalent in a great deal of mythology, but one of the most common and well known myths behind the constellations is the Greek myth of Jason and the Argonauts. The golden fleece appears in the myth, stolen by Jason and the Argonauts with the help of Medea, a sorceress who fell in love with Jason. This constellation also appears in Egyptian mythology. It is most often associated with their creator deity Amon-Ra, who was depicted with the head of a ram. Aries even appears in some ancient Babylonian mythology. Surprisingly, though Aries is present in various cultures’ mythologies it is the second smallest of all the Zodiac Constellations. It is composed of relatively dim stars, with Hamal, its brightest star, only having a magnitude of 2.02. Hamal is located 65.8 billion light years away and its name means, “The Ram,” originating from the Arabic phrase rās al-ħamal, meaning “Head of the Ram.”
While watching the sky for Aries there are a few more astronomical events
you should keep your eye out for. On December 4, there will be a super moon. This means that the moon is closer to Earth than it usually is, appearing bigger and brighter than usual. This also affects the movement of the ocean, creating very high tides called king tides, posing a potentially greater threat because of their strength. As for the rest of the major moon phases, be prepared to see a new moon on the December 20, with the following new full moon on January 3, 2026.
December 13-14, the Geminid Meteor shower will take place, followed by Ursid Meteor shower during the December 21-22. December 21 is also the Winter Solstice, also known as the shortest day of the year. The Winter Solstice is caused by the northern hemisphere being tilted farther away from the sun than at any other point during the year. The Solstices have been celebrated as holidays by many different cultures throughout many years, and are still considered holidays to this day.
Speaking of holidays, many people like to hang up celebratory lights to add some festive sparkle. These lights are wonderful and a beautiful sight to see at night, but please remember to turn them off by 10 p.m. If festive lights are left on all night they add to light pollution, which is a big concern, especially because we are a Dark Sky community. If you are unable to turn your lights off by 10 p.m., set an alarm or reminder on your phone before going to bed. Many modern lights can be put on a timer system as well, which greatly reduces light pollution. So may the month ahead be full of festivities, and let nature’s lights have a chance to shine as bright as your own. Happy holidays and happy stargazing.
Nugget Poetry Corner
In The Middle of The Street
ByJackie Page
I stand her e in the middle of the str eet w her e I live.
An old woman, with w hite hair, and w hite skin. My maiden name is White.
I have a w hite peace dove near my door.
“Why is she ther e?” the Raven cr owed.
“How far can she star e?” asked the Mink.
I hear their kind voices and tur n to see the Raven standing with an ar row in her c hest. T he Mink lay still in a tr ap.
For a moment I stand, then remember my task. A message to the wo rld, the univer se, to holy God.
I hold up a w hite flag
The
Latte Ballet
ByPaulAlanBennett
Mister Barista please fix me a latte
In a cup of fine c hina a scone by its side
On top pour a patter n that lifts up my spirits
With half and half cr eam make a unique design
Then I watc hed as he pour ed in what looked like the setting
Of a stage with w hite curtains wher e actors could play
And my eyes were delighted when the curtains soon par ted
And I w atc hed as the foam became dancer s that day
The latte ballet was the coffee house specialty
Sugar Plum Fair y her dancing so gr and Then to my amazement my Mister Barista
Did tr ansfor m right into the Nutcracker Man
With eyeliner makeup and cheeks of bright scar let
A r ed coat he wor e with golden lapels
A consummate soldier so beautifully tailor ed
In his w hite tights and blac k boots… and r eady to kill!
He leaped o’er the counter and quic kly raced past me
As two cr azy demons cr ashed thr ough the fr ont door
And they battled it out all the customer s gasping
When the Nutcr ac ker Man did collapse on the floor
Well, I couldn’ t allow this cr uel end to my barista
At the demons I hur dled my table and chair
And I r an at them both with my fists and my angr y eyes
Punc hing them har d c hasing them out of ther e!
I looked up fr om my cof fee cup at my barista who now looked quite normal in his apron of plaid
How’s the latte? He asked and w as pleased w hen I answer ed “that’s the best cup of cof fee that I’ ve ever had”
The latte ballet was the coffee house specialty Sugar Plum Fair y her dancing so gr and
But if you need someone to combat your demons
Be sur e your barista’s the Nutcr ac ker Man
Endless Touch
ByCasWonsowicz
We lie in stillness your hand finds mine –a spar k a tr emor thr ough the quiet. Your touc h consumes thought melts aw ay the noise of the day. I br eathe you r ead –
our wor lds inter twine in silence. My mind drifts you remain focused –eyes tr acing page s finger s tr acing mine
The book closes softly. The light fades slowly
I tur n, soundless – you follow Bodies tur ning in one rhythm. No wor ds r emain only warmth only skin only us – tangled in the hush of night touc hing endlessly.
Send submissions of original poetrytojess@nuggetnews ytojess@nuggetnews. comforpossibleinclusion in a future issue of TheNugget. TheNugget. Publicationissubjecttospace availabilityanddiscretion of ailabilityanddiscretion TheNuggetNewspaper Allpoemscopyrighttheauthor
Fall Is In The Air!
We
Wreaths Across America to honor local veterans
Local veteran organizations will host a ceremony at Village Green Park on December 13, at 10 a.m. to honor the service and sacrifice of Sisters veterans laid to rest at Camp Polk Cemetery.
This year’s theme, “Keep Moving Forward,” reflects the enduring strength of our veterans, our community, and our shared responsibility to carry their stories into the future. The public is encouraged to attend this meaningful tribute. Wreaths will have been laid on the graves, and this ceremony helps ensure our veterans’ legacies live on — not just in history, but in the heart of Sisters.
Wreaths Across America grew from modest roots in Maine. According to the wreathsacrossamerica.org website:
“Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, was a 12-year old paper boy when he won a trip to Washington D.C. It was his first to our nation’s capital and one that would change the trajectory of his life and the lives of millions of others across the country. Seeing the hundreds of thousands of graves and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery made an especially indelible impression on him. It was to be an experience that would follow him throughout his life and successful career, reminding him that his good fortune was due, in large part, to the values of his nation and the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“In 1992, Worcester Wreath found themselves with a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Remembering his boyhood experience at Arlington, Worcester realized he had an opportunity to honor our country’s veterans. With the aid of Maine Senator Olympia Snowe (ret), arrangements were made for the surplus wreaths
to be placed at Arlington in one of the older cemetery sections that had been receiving fewer visitors each passing year...
“For over a decade, this annual tribute went on quietly and privately. Everything changed in 2005, when a photo of the stones at Arlington, adorned with wreaths and covered in snow, circulated around the internet. Suddenly, the homespun tribute from a small town in downeast Maine was receiving national attention. Thousands of requests poured in from all over the country from people wanting to help purchase and lay wreaths at Arlington. Thousands more wanted to emulate the Arlington project at their local National and State cemeteries. Still others simply desired to share their stories and thank Morrill Worcester for honoring our nation’s heroes. Many were surviving family members of some of those heroes.”
The movement grew and in 2007, the Worcester family and veterans organizations formed the nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization Wreaths Across America to expand the effort.
In 2024, the website reports, “over three million sponsored veterans’ wreaths were placed on headstones of our nation’s service members at 4,909 participating locations. More than four million volunteers helped place wreaths, a third of whom were children. This was accomplished with the support of more than 7,400 sponsorship groups, corporate contributions, and in-kind donations from the transportation industry across the country.”
The Sisters event on December 13 coincides with the national event which is again expected to lay millions of wreaths upon the graves of American veterans. For information on Camp Polk Cemetery see op-ed on page 2.
This Week’s Crossword Sponsors
ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
CLASSIFIED RATES
COST: $3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate.
DEADLINE: 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
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
206 Lost & Found FOUND
black prescription glasses and car keys near the Village Green Park after Halloween. Please call 541-549-4451.
301 Vehicles
We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397
Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com
CLASSIC CAR STORAGE!
Oversized, lights/power, $275/m • 541-419-2502
302 Recreational Vehicles
Early 17-ft. '60s Can Ham Trailer, $3,900. 971-331-9709.
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
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
3 Sisters TeleNetworks, LLC
Audio/video, data networking, WIFI, security camera, alarms. CCB #191099 541-306-0729
502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
GORDON’S LAST TOUCH Cleaning Specialists for CARPETS, WINDOWS & UPHOLSTERY
Member Better Business Bureau
• Bonded & Insured
• Serving Central Oregon Since 1980 Call 541-549-3008
M & J CARPET CLEANING
Area rugs, upholstery, tile & dryer-vent cleaning. Established & family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090
504 Handyman
3 Sisters Handyman Services 20+ years experience
No job too large or small. Snow removal services available. Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Call Nate 907-748-4100
sistershandyman@gmail.com CCB# 253556 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
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 LOLO TREE WORKS Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services. ISA Certified Arborist
Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638
Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com
CCB #240912
601 Construction
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
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
SUDOKU Level: Difficult Answer: Page 31
C L A S S I F I
CASCADIA DESIGN BUILD
541-974-2282
Earthwood Timber
BANR Enterprises, LLC
• Recycled fir and pine beams
• Mantels and accent timbers
STEVE'S HAULING
BANR Enterprises, LLC
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls
Residential & Commercial
• Sawmill/woodshop services ewdevcollc@gmail.com
GARAGE DOORS
Remodel / Renovate / Repair
STEVE'S HAULING
Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370
Residential & Commercial
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977
CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977
www.BANR.net
CASCADE GARAGE DOORS
Factory Trained Technicians
Factory Trained Technicians
604 Heating & Cooling
www.BANR.net
Full home remodel, little home fixes, and everything in between. cascadiadesignbuildllc.com 541-974-2282
Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
Since 1983 • CCB #44054
541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
602 Plumbing & Electric
602 Plumbing & Electric
Ridgeline Electric, LLC
Uncompromising quality. Local You can trust me. projects: From new construction to those little don't seem to get to. local subcontractors
it done right, fair, so you can make spouse happy.
503-949-9719
Ridgeline Electric, LLC
Serving all of Central Oregon
Serving all of Central Oregon
• Residential • Commercial
• Residential • Commercial
• Industrial • Service 541-588-3088 • CCB #234821
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
Commercial
• Industrial • Service
541-588-3088 • CCB #234821
604 Heating & Cooling
Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service
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
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
701 Domestic Services
Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service
Residential & Commercial
Remodels
Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas monteselectric@hotmail.com
Construction LLC.
CCB#223701
701 Domestic Services
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC
California move rings insurance alarm bells
By Alex Brown Oregon Capital Chronicle
Residential & Commercial
Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair
541-588-5667
Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair
SistersHeatingAir.com
ACTION AIR
Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Remodels • Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas monteselectric@hotmail.com
CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860 GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE 541-419-3148
Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
541-588-5667
SistersHeatingAir.com
ACTION AIR
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
In recent years, hundreds of thousands of Californians have purchased home insurance from a state-managed “last resort” insurance pool that has grown rapidly as private insurance companies have fled the market.
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Heating & Cooling, LLC
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com
CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860 — GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE 541-419-3148
A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com
Lara’s Construction LLC.
CCB#223701
masonry work, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build and all types of
Give us a call estimate 541-350-3218
CCB #195556 541-549-6464
Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com
704 Events & Event Services
CCB #195556
541-549-6464
605 Painting ~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com
SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.
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
Burke LOCALLY OWNED
CRAFTSMAN BUILT
“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling
• New Construction
• Water Heaters 541-549-4349
SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.
605 Painting
~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~
Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com
“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling
• New Construction • Water Heaters 541-549-4349
Residential and Commercial
CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com
Interior/Exterior Painting Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327
Residential and Commercial
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
CCB #87587
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587
603 Excavation & Trucking Full Service Excavation
Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED CRAFTSMAN BUILT
• 541-588-2062
www.sistersfencecompany.com
CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com
Construction & Renovation
704 Events & Event Services
CENTRAL OREGON'S GUN & KNIFE SHOW!
CENTRAL OREGON'S GUN & KNIFE SHOW!
December 20 & 21, Saturday, 9-5 • Sunday, 9-3 Deschutes County Expo Center
Interior/Exterior Painting
Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327
peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491
EMPIRE PAINTING
603 Excavation & Trucking
December 20 & 21, Saturday, 9-5 • Sunday, 9-3 Deschutes County Expo Center
ADMISSION: General $10; Military/Vets $8; 2-day pass $16; Children under 12 are free. For info call 541-699-1585 OregonGunsandMoreShow.com
EMPIRE PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining
Full Service Excavation
CCB#180042
Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail
ADMISSION: General $10; Military/Vets $8; 2-day pass $16; Children under 12 are free. For info call 541-699-1585 OregonGunsandMoreShow.com
A great place for last minute Christmas shopping!
Interior and Exterior Painting and Staining CCB#180042
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
541-613-1530 • Geoff Houk
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com
CCB #76888
541-549-1472 • CCB #76888
Drainfield
• Minor & Major Septic Repair
Construction & Renovation
Residential Projects
Custom Residential Projects
CCB #148365
541-420-8448
• Minor & Major Septic Repair
• All Septic Needs/Design & Install
All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448
General Excavation
• Site Preparation
Homes • Additions
• All Septic Needs/Design & Install
General Excavation
A great place for last minute Christmas shopping!
999 Public Notice BBR RFPD Meeting Date Change
606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance
Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.
• Site Preparation
• Rock & Stump Removal
• Rock & Stump Removal
• Pond & Driveway Construction
Custom Homes • Additions
Building Projects
• Building Demolition Trucking
Residential Building Projects
Sisters area since 1976
Serving Sisters area since 1976
Strictly Quality
• CCB #159020
541-280-9764
999 Public Notice BBR RFPD Meeting Date Change
The regularly scheduled board meeting for December has been canceled due to the holidays. Questions? Call (541) 595-2288 NOTICE OF SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET HEARING
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
• Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation
• Building Demolition Trucking
• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water
Strictly Quality
CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 541-280-9764
John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com with The Nugget –541-549-9941
Now, in the wake of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year, the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan is seeking approval from the state for an average 36 percent rate hike, which would further squeeze homeowners who have no other options for coverage.
Insurance experts say it’s a national warning sign, as the effects of climate change cause private insurance companies to pull back on coverage in disaster-prone areas, leaving states and their residents to assume more of the risk. Fewer homeowners will be able to purchase private insurance in the future, and even those who do may face higher premiums as companies charge more to pay for the FAIR Plan losses.
The regularly scheduled board meeting for December has been canceled due to the holidays. Questions? Call (541) 595-2288
NOTICE OF SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET HEARING
In some states, these statemanaged insurance plans have grown from a handful of policies, as originally intended, to hundreds of thousands of homeowners. The plans charge high premiums and provide limited coverage.
CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com 541-515-8462
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
• Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
• Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24
John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com
Whatever You Want!
• The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Whatever You Want!
ROBINSON & OWEN
– Advertise with The Nugget –541-549-9941
ROBINSON & OWEN
Heavy Construction, Inc.
Heavy Construction, Inc.
All your excavation needs
*General excavation
All your excavation needs
All Landscaping Services
Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
Eastern Cascade Solutions Landscaping & Construction www.easterncascadesolutions. com • 541-233-7195
*General excavation
A public hearing on a proposed supplemental budget for Black Butte School District #41 for the current fiscal year will be held at Black Butte School (25745 FS Rd 1419, Camp Sherman, OR). The hearing will take place on December 9 at 3:30 p.m. The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the supplemental budget with interested persons. A copy of the supplemental budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after November 2, at the Black Butte School District Office or at www.blackbutte.k12.or.us.
Eastern Cascade Solutions
Landscaping & Construction www.easterncascadesolutions. com • 541-233-7195
A public hearing on a proposed supplemental budget for Black Butte School District #41 for the current fiscal year will be held at Black Butte School (25745 FS Rd 1419, Camp Sherman, OR). The hearing will take place on December 9 at 3:30 p.m. The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the supplemental budget with interested persons. A copy of the supplemental budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after November 2, at the Black Butte School District Office or at www.blackbutte.k12.or.us.
SUDOKU SOLUTION
“It was supposed to be a stopgap measure. People are supposed to be on a FAIR Plan policy for a short amount of time, but with climate change and these extreme weather events, that’s not going to happen,” said Alfonso Pating, global financial regulation analyst with the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental nonprofit.
At present, 35 states and the District of Columbia offer FAIR Plans or Citizens Plans to homeowners who can’t find coverage on the private market. The plans are managed by state governments, with the financial backing of the private insurers doing business in that state.
Custom Homes Additions - Remodels
*Site Preparation
*Road Building
Custom Homes
LCB #9958 • CCB #222039
*Site Preparation
*Sub-Divisions
*Road Building
*Sewer and Water Systems
Additions - Remodels
*Underground Utilities
*Sewer and Water Systems
*Underground Utilities
LCB #9958 • CCB #222039
for puzzle on page 30
*Grading
Residential Building Projects
Becke William Pierce
541-647-0384
*Sand-Gravel-Rock
CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384
*Grading
*Sand-Gravel-Rock
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com — Serving Sisters Since 2010 —
CCB #124327
541-549-1848
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
– 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 www.NuggetNews.com
CCB #124327 541-549-1848
– 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 www.NuggetNews.com
Y O U R S O U R C E for news up-to-date!
Y O U R S O U R C E for news up-to-date!
The plans maintain enough reserves to cover payouts for an average year. But when the plans take heavy losses, they impose an assessment on a pool of the insurance companies doing business in the state, based on their market share.
These state-managed plans were initially created to cover a small number of properties as a temporary, last-resort option.
for reading, Ripley!
• 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!
