The Deschutes County Road Department invites community members to attend an online open house for proposed intersection improvements along South Century Drive. Public comments will be accepted through April 17.
South Century Drive is an essential route near the Sunriver and Three Rivers communities. The Road Department plans to install new roundabouts at the intersections of Venture Lane and Spring River Road to improve traffic flow and increase safety for the drivers, cyclists and pedestrians who travel the corridor. The online open house is also showcasing the design for a roundabout at Huntington Road, which is scheduled for construction this summer.
Community members are invited to participate in an online platform, review proposed designs for the Venture Lane and Spring River Road improvements and provide their feedback about the intersection improvements.
Key details of the online open house:
• The open house will be hosted entirely online at https://form.jotform.
Sunriver Resort is eliminating its single day public access to Meadows and Woodlands golf courses, effective immediately, and transitioning to private resort golf membership.
Golf will be exclusively available only to those who purchase a Sunriver Resort
SROA NEWS – This is a reminder that some SROA departments may be unavailable between March 31 and April 4 for the moving of desks, computers, equipment, etc. into new and/or temporary office spaces.
Any required full closure days will be posted to the SROA website calendar. Please expect delayed responses to emails or voicemails left for staff during this time.
Those who need to drop off submittals for Community Development, make a maintenance fee payment, etc. can leave those materials in the foyer. There is a locked drop box for payments and other sensitive documents. Should
Club membership or to those visitors staying at a Sunriver Resort managed vacation property.
This change results in no public golf access for owners or vacationers who want to golf in Sunriver but are not staying at a Resort property. Stay at a
Resort property, you have access. Stay at any other rental properties within Sunriver and you won’t have golf access. Sunriver Resort first introduced a membership component in 2024. It
you need additional assistance, you can call front desk staff at 541-593-2411.
Starting in early April, SROA’s front desk will undergo remodeling and
temporarily relocated to the new Community Development office. Anyone visiting SROA will need to use the new Community Development entrance.
Sunriver Resort moving to fully private golf membership club
As Sunriver’s premier brokerage, our visionary approach is redefining the brokerage model with property management, vacation rentals, marketing, and real estate all under one roof. We leverage our direct access and knowledge to serve clients in ways no other brokerage can. Whether you're seeking a primary residence, a vacation home, or investing in a rental property, Sunriver Realty has the expertise and resources to support you every step of the way.
SUNRIVER
April 2025
Volume XLVIII, No. 4
57455 Abbot Drive PO Box 3278
Sunriver, OR 97707
OWNER/PUBLISHER
Sunriver Owners Association
The SUNRIVER SCENE is the official monthly publication of the Sunriver Owners Association, a not-for-profit Oregon corporation dedicated to:
“Maintaining Sunriver as a premier residential and resort community, protecting its natural environment, vibrant quality of life, property values and overall economic vitality."
The Scene is mailed to Sunriver property owners anywhere in the U.S. and available at locations throughout Sunriver and through a paid subscription by mail.
Publication of advertising copy or individuals’ opinions in the Scene does not constitute endorsement by the newspaper, the Sunriver Owners Association or any of its members or board of directors. Each advertiser bears responsibility for claims made on their behalf.
All Scene content including stories, advertising and images are copyrighted and cannot be re-published without permission.
CONTACT THE SCENE
Editor | Communications Director
Susan Berger | 541.585.2937 susanb@srowners.org
Communications Specialist
Shae Callewaert | 541.593.6068 shaec@srowners.org
Communications Specialist
Kristine Thomas | 541.585.2939 kristinet@srowners.org
SROA Compliance Corner: SROA Admin building construction
The SROA Community Development Department will soon be moving into the south end of the SROA Administration Building, previously occupied by the Sunriver Police Department.
As many may be aware, the new SSD project created a new home for the Sunriver Police Department in the west addition to the existing Sunriver Fire Department Building, leaving the south end of the SROA Administration Building unoccupied. This space has been remodeled into the future home of the SROA
Community Development Department. New offices will also be provided for the Assistant General Manager and Human Resources.
The Community Development Department is scheduled to move the week of March 31through April 4. During this week, you will still be able to submit plans and applications both physically and electronically; however, response times may be substantially delayed. Additionally, both the Community Development drop box in the foyer and the exterior home color choices chart will
eventually be moving down to the south entry.
The new space will feature several upgrades and additions, the most noticeable of which is a separate exterior entrance which should help to alleviate confusion for owners, contractors, and other applicants searching for the Community Development Department. In addition to the new formal entry and open office helping to separate traffic between departments, it will also allow for more privacy and fewer distractions than the comingled offices of the past. A new plan
review room will provide more space, improved lighting and a large monitor for digital displays. Additionally, a separate new conference room will offer even more space and privacy as necessary. The remodel also includes expanded planner offices, a new staff restroom and records storage room. These new upgrades should drastically aid in the experience and efficiency related to submitting and processing design review applications.
SROA staff are excited about the new space and look forward to seeing you all over there in the future.
provided owners and current members of Sunriver’s longstanding golf clubs an opportunity to purchase a membership at a reduced rate. It also allowed public access but included an additional $50 “daily member” fee to play.
Owners have reached out
to SROA noting their disappointment and feel this will have an adverse effect on those with vacation rentals and their guests expecting to play golf – including bookings already made with the belief that golf is still an option.
Moving forward, anyone interested in a Sunriver Golf Club membership will pay a $15,000 initiation fee and $395 a month
in dues. Membership includes the primary member, their spouse and dependent children under 25. Membership access includes play on Meadows and Woodlands courses with tee times reservable up to 14 days in advance and access to the Cove Aquatic Center. Members also will receive discounts on Resort dining, Mt. Bachelor shuttle, bike and marina boat
rentals, spa services and at the retail shops.
Guests staying with the Resort will pay a daily resort guest rate and can book a tee time during their reservation. Dependent on weather, the Meadows course is expected to open in April, followed by Woodlands in late May. For more info, contact Resort golf at 855-420-8206.
Release stagnant winter energy with a breathwork class
Step into an evening of lunar transformation with “Lunar Breathwork: A Pink Supermoon Breathwork Experience”
April 10 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. at SHARC.
In this immersive session, you will be guided through conscious connected breathwork – a dynamic practice that unites deep, intentional breathing with heightened selfawareness.
As the gentle glow of the pink full supermoon illuminates the
sky, you’ll be invited to release stagnant energies and welcome renewal through each mindful
inhale and exhale. This class is designed to help you tap into your inner wisdom, foster emotional balance, and harness the potent energy of the lunar cycle for healing and transformation. Join us to celebrate a night of intention, community and profound inner alchemy. The class instructor is Whitney Tappan Locke, who has a Master of Science in health informatics and holds a Bachelor of Science in respiratory therapy. In April 2023, she
became a certified breathwork instructor through Jon Paul Crimi’s teacher training program. Locke has taught at local, regional and national events such as Burning Man, The Balance Bend Mental Health Festival, and the SteamPunk Music Festival.
Online tickets can be purchased at www.bendticket. com. Cost is $30 owners with valid Member Preference card or $35 general public (plus online fees).
Once a year, Sunriver owners are asked to vote for three SROA board members. These members serve a three-year term, commencing in September. There are a total of 4,213 properties in Sunriver, with each property getting a single vote. Typically, about one-third of Sunriver owners participate in our annual election.
There are likely multiple reasons why more Sunriver owners do not participate in our annual election. One that is foremost on the mind of SROA and the board is: convenience.
SROA’s normal process is to mail a ballot packet to each Sunriver owner of record. The packet includes the voter’s pamphlet, the ballot, a white secrecy envelope and a blue return envelope. Owners are asked to mark their ballot, place it in the white secrecy envelope, then place it in the blue return envelope and seal it. For the owner’s ballot to be considered valid, the owner must also sign the exterior of the blue return envelope. Finally, the owner returns the sealed, signed, blue envelope (containing the sealed white secrecy envelope with their marked ballot) to SROA either via mail or by dropping off at the SROA office, prior to the close of the election.
Highlights of
At the February SROA Board meeting the board voted to approve SROA negotiating a contract with an online voting service. The board approved of this resolution to improve convenience for owners and hopefully increase owner participation in our elections. Online voting avoids ballots lost in the mail, sent to the wrong address, or eaten by the family dog (all of which have happened in the past).
Owners might now ask: How will online voting work?
The process for online voting is simple and can be completed on a computer, smartphone or tablet. Each owner who has an email address registered with SROA will receive an email with instructions and a link to a secure web-based voting portal. For those who have not provided an email address, the voting service will send you a notice via postal mail alerting you of the voting process and your opportunity to vote via email or request a paper ballot.
The voting portal will contain check boxes for each candidate and/or measure(s) for the owner to select from. There will be other supplementary information like candidate’s background, candidate state-
Require a paper ballot?
If we have your email you will be receiving an e-ballot this year for SROA's summer election. Owners who wish to receive a paper ballot MUST OPT IN by filling out an online form at www.sunriverowners.org/ballot
ments, pro/con statements, supporting documents, space for write-in candidate, etc.
Upon completion of their selection, the owner clicks the “submit” button, completing the voting process. No need to place a ballot in a secrecy envelope, place the secrecy envelope in a mailing envelope, remembering to sign the mailing envelope and either mailing or delivering the envelope to SROA.
It is important to note that SROA is not trying out a novel process that has not been used before. According to research conducted by Assistant General Manager Keith Kessaris, online voting has been successfully used by many large-scale homeowner associations (HOAs) across the country for many years. These HOAs report a 2530% increase in owner voting participation and overall high levels of owner acceptance. Beyond convenience, online voting reduces the administrative burden of our voting process and eliminates multiple opportunities for “human error.”
The SROA Election Com-
mittee will still be involved announcing the final results but eliminating the hand-count of hundreds of paper ballots as in the past.
With online voting, the results are available almost immediately following the close of the election. Because each owner is given a unique voter ID, there is no need to check for multiple votes from the same Sunriver address and/or audit results to check for counting errors.
Sunriver owners will have an opportunity to use online voting for this year’s board member election this coming July/August. If you haven’t already done so, I highly encourage all owners to register their email address with SROA (www.sunriverowners.org/ updatemyinformation).
Owners who do not have an email address registered with SROA will be able to participate in our election using a paper ballot. You can request receiving a paper ballot by using the online form at www. sunriverowners.org/ballot
the SROA Board of Directors monthly meeting
The Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Board of Directors meeting was held Saturday, March 15, 2025.
Board members present: Bill Burke, Keith Mobley, Clark Pederson, Mark Murray, Linda Beard, Randy Schneider. Via Zoom Gerhard Beenen, Roni Jacknow, and Brad Banta.
Staff present: James Lewis, Susan Berger and Richie Villagrana.
Owners forums (summarized)
From March 14 work session
• Letter read into record by Collin Jackson with concerns about access to Meadows and Woodlands golf courses completely transitioning to private golf. This means that there is zero access to “public golf” for those that live there or rent to vacationers who want to golf in Sunriver. This is disappointing and will have a huge impact on people who rent and the
vacationers who expect to be able to play golf while they are staying in Sunriver (including bookings already made under the assumption that golf in Sunriver was still an option).
• Letter read into record by Richard Baldwin. His comments were in regard to comments submitted to the Strategic Plan Task Force – he stated that he did not get a response that they had been received. Assistant General Manager Keith Kessaris responded to him via email indicating that his comments had been received along with others submitted and that all comments were provided to the task force and taken into consideration as part of developing the final documents.
From March 15 regular meeting
• No owners spoke.
Board actions
• Approved minutes of the
SROA Financial Report
Feb. 14 SROA board work session.
• Approved minutes of the Feb. 15 SROA board regular meeting.
• Approved the SROA unaudited financial statements for the month ending Feb. 28, 2025.
• Approved second reading for the proposed amendments to Section 1, Rules, Procedures and Enforcement of the Sunriver Rules & Regulations as recommended by the SROA Covenants Committee.
• Approved amendments to the SROA Citation Form to reflect amendments to SROA Rules & Regulations, Section 1 – Rules, Procedures and Enforcement.
• Approved revised carryover of $961,838 from the 2024 Reserve & Capital Budget to the 2025 budget resulting in a total of $4,508,042 in the 2025 Reserve & Capital Budget.
Committee action requests
• Approved appointment of Sherry Smith as an alternate member of the Design Committee.
Association operations
• Administration: Participate in follow up meeting with SRFD and Resort regarding emergency messaging and
Sunriver Owner’s Association holds significant cash and investment balances.
Our operating fund balance is $5,500,000 as of Feb. 28, 2025. These funds increase as owners pay their annual maintenance fees, RV storage fees, purchase Recreation Plus Program (RPP) and Member Preference Program (MPP) cards, pay community development fees on painting, remodeling or building new structures, pay fines for rule violations, daily entry fees to SHARC and other contributions to income.
This fund decreases as current operating expenses are paid. It operates like your household budget and checking account.
In addition, we have a capital reserve account. Here we have built investment balances over the years to provide for the replacement of assets with a 3- to 30-year life and a cost of more than $3,000. These funds are used as assets deteriorate and need repairing or replacement, or when we add new amenities to Sunriver. Our capital reserve balance as of Feb. 28, 2025 is $12,650,000.
Who oversees that investment?
The Finance Committee overseas the investment of assets. The committee consists of four board members and six other property owners appointed by the board. Our controller, Joe Healy, provides oversite over all day-to-day operations, and makes recommendations to the Finance Committee. After discussion and thoughtful consideration, the committee makes recommendations to the board of directors.
How are these funds invested?
Adopted SROA Financial Policies and Oregon State statutes limit how funds held by homeowner associations can be invested. Our financial policy states that investment objectives are preservation of capital, liquidity and rate of return, in that order. It states the portfolio should match cash flow needs.
Oregon statutes limits HOA investments to U.S. Treasury bills and notes; U.S. Government agency obligations backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government; (Bonds issued by governmentsponsored enterprises such as GNMAs and FNMAs should not be used); time or demand
Gerhard Beenen
LLCs and trusts: SROA ownership and membership requirements
SROA NEWS – Moving forward for the 2025 membership year, all properties held under an LLC or trust must submit updated trust documentation to the SROA Member Services office or update the LLC information through the Secretary of State.
If you have already purchased your 2025 Member Preference ID card you do not – at this time – need to contact SROA. You will need to update your paperwork for 2026 and beyond.
This update is necessary to ensure compliance with membership criteria as an ongoing
Treasurer
continued from page 4
deposits in any commercial bank., and certain money market funds. Bank deposits are kept to FDIC limits.
Our investment policy states that the finance committee can only authorize maturity lengths of two years or less without board approval.
Operating funds are invested in short term securities: cash, money market funds, 60-day, 90-day, and 6-month U.S. Government Treasury Securities such as Treasury Bills and
Highlights
continued from page 4
responsibilities. Meet with representative from Meadow House HOA and attended their board meeting to discuss easements and construction of pathway across their common area (proposed Circle 2-3 pathway). Met with two owners regarding their desire to create a Deschutes County recognized “no shooting” designation for Sunriver. Met with Ashley Steinbrecher, SRPD Community Service Officer, regarding pathway bike patrol statistics. Gave a presentation at the joint Sunriver/La Pine chamber State of the South County breakfast meeting to present SROA 2025 work plan. Attended joint meeting with the SSD Board and the Deschutes County Commissioners.
• Accounting: Conducted second meeting with the Revenue Subcommittee. Attended Deschutes County Audit Committee meeting. Continue to process 2025 maintenance dues payments, bulk fiber billings and MPP/RPP pass sales.
• Communications: Created marketing materials and continue to meet regularly to
audit has resulted in a variety of non-legal documentation on record. Failure to submit or update the necessary information will result in only the names currently listed on the title paperwork recorded on Deschutes County DIAL will be eligible to receive 2025 SROA Member Preference ID cards.
LLC ownership requirements
For LLCs, all members of the LLC must be listed on the LLC documents filed with the Secretary of State.
Only the members listed in
maturing Treasury Notes.
On the Reserve Fund side, a sizable portion of the funds are for replacement, repair or upgrading of assets with a life of 10 to 30 years. Thus, a portion of those funds can be invested for longer periods.
Anything longer than 2 years requires board approval. In November of 2023 with concern that interest rates would decline the Finance Committee asked the board for permission to invest $3 million of reserve fund in maturities as long as 5 years in length. Another request was made in August 2024 to invest another $2.5 million in securi-
plan the inaugural communitywide Oktoberfest in September that will involve SHARC, Village and Sunriver Business Park. Created a postcard for Natural Resources to mail to owners about removing juniper/arborvitae on their property. Updated stories related to SROA going in the Sunriver Magazine.
• Community Development: Rolled out the new 2025 fee schedule. Working with Covenant's Committee on changes to Section 1.00 of the Sunriver Rules & Regs. Added one new full-time member to the Design Committee. The number of applications submitted in February was down slightly from the same month in 2024 – from 67 in 2024 to 59 in 2025.
• Natural Resources: Mailed notification postcards regarding ladder fuels reduction (LFR) contract work on commons this spring. Finalized GIS map for 2025 LFR contract area (available on SROA website). Coordinated with Communication Department regarding wildfire mitigation education and outreach. Mailed notification postcards regarding ladder fuels reduction contract work on commons this spring.
• IT: Worked on systems that
this filing will be eligible to purchase a member preference card.
Additionally, the following individuals associated with the LLC are eligible to purchase a membership:
• The owner, manager or officer of the LLC
• Their spouse or domestic partner
• Dependent children ages 4-23
If an individual is not listed as a member, manager or officer with the Secretary of State, they will not qualify for a member preference card.
However, the owner, man-
ties up to 5 years in length.
Short term interest rates have stayed high this past year so the longer duration may not have been necessary, however the committee and the board felt it was a prudent decision to protect rates of return to the advantage of our owners. When short-term rates do decline, we will be glad we hold a portfolio that includes some longer maturities.
Besides the Financial Committee overseeing investments, we also hire a fiduciary investment manager to monitor and make recommendations. In October 2024 we made a
went down following the Feb. 23 community power outage. New admin network established for expanded admin offices. Testing GIS/database improvements to simplify Community Development projects. Continue to troubleshoot new A/V system at SHARC.
• Public Works: Spring road/ pathway sections identified for treatment. Developing contracts. Wildflower tunnel protective root zone installed with work expected to begin March 10. Timeline in place for gas relocation but still working with Lumen to move communications lines. Repairing potholes and roadside edges. All the old-style tunnels required us to pump water out after heavy rainfall. Some were as deep as 2 feet. No water issues with the new tunnels. SHARC aquatics leak detection testing was to take place in early March. Tennis building remodel/design underway for review by Community Development with work to start this spring. Interviewed for Tech 1 openings.
• Recreation/SHARC: Busy with Member Preference and Recreation Plus Program sales. Summer planning underway. Spring Break is around the corner with some outdoor op-
ager or officer may request an extended household membership for up to a total of six individuals per property, subject to a separate yearly fee.
Trust ownership requirements
If your trust is a single ownership and lists, for example Jack & Jill Smith, we do not need your trust paperwork.
For multiple-ownership trusts, supporting documentation identifying the family members serving as trustees is required to purchase a Member Preference card. The trustee, their spouse or domestic part-
change in who manages our assets.
First Interstate Wealth Management formerly managed the assets. In the fall of 2024 members of the Finance Committee questioned whether we were paying too much in management fees and a review was done of alternative managers.
After examination of alternatives, the Finance Committee recommended a change to Morgan Stanley Corporate Cash Management and the Board approved the change. Both companies are fiduciaries which means they are paid a percentage of assets managed
erations open – if the weather cooperates. Facility was busy over President’s Day weekend. Open Aquatic Supervisor position to be filled in March.
The meeting adjourned at 10:16 a.m.
The next SROA board work session will take place at 9 a.m. April 18 followed by the regular
ner, and dependent children ages 4-23, are eligible for membership.
It is important to note that only individuals listed as trustees are eligible for membership. If a person is listed as a “successor trustee” or “beneficiary,” they will not qualify for a Member Preference card. In such cases, the trustee or owner may request an extended household membership for up to a total of six individuals per property and subject to separate yearly fees. If you have further questions, contact SROA Member Services at memberservices@ srowners.org or 541-585-3147.
rather than a trade commission. This limits conflict of interest and provides professional oversight.
Over the past couple of years with high interest rates we have earned significant interest on operating and reserve fund balances. Total earned interest has been $131,000 in 2022, $705,000 in 2023 and $825,000 in 2024. These are monies that owners do not have to contribute through maintenance fees.
–Clark Pederson is treasurer of the SROA Board of Directors and chair of the Finance Committee. pederson@srowners.org
board meeting at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 19.
To watch the recorded meeting via YouTube, visit the meeting date on SROA website calendar for the YouTube link. Meeting minutes, once approved, are available on the SROA website at www. sunriverowners.org
PUBLIC NOTICE
Asbestos in Sunriver
An environmental assessment performed in 2009 found small amounts of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) present in the soil at limited locations in Sunriver. The ACM are associated with Camp Abbot, a World War II U.S. Army camp located on the property that became Sunriver. Air testing has demonstrated that the ACM poses extremely low risk to people. Nevertheless, if ACM is encountered it must be properly managed and disposed of as required by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
What is ACM? Asbestos-containing material consists of building materials or other substances that contain one percent or more asbestos fibers. Historically, ACM included floor tile, building siding, roofing materials, automobile brake pads, insulation, wall texture, and many more materials.
What does the ACM in Sunriver look like? ACM encountered in Sunriver soil generally consists of shards of building siding and floor tile, commonly between 1 and 6 inches in diameter. Materials may be greenish gray, light gray or other colors, and commonly exhibit ribbed or grid patterns. Samples of ACM are available for viewing at the Sunriver Owners Association. Where are the asbestos-containing materials? ACM has been encountered in discrete locations on common property in Sunriver. It typically has been found on the surface or within 12 inches of the surface. ACM has also been detected on a small number of private properties. It is possible that ACM are present in soil in other areas.
What should I do if I see it? Do not disturb suspected materials. Contact the Air Quality Program of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality at 541-633-2019 if suspect material is encountered on private property. Contact the Sunriver Owners Association at 541-593-1522 if suspect material is encountered on common
Sunriver Music Festival announces summer lineup in Sunriver and Bend
From Aug. 2-13, Sunriver Music Festival presents its 48th season in two spectacular, historic Central Oregon venues – the Tower Theatre in downtown Bend and the Sunriver Resort Great Hall. Performances feature worldclass orchestra musicians and renowned soloists, led by artistic director and conductor Brett Mitchell.
Programs include four classical concerts, a pops concert, a solo piano concert and a family concert. The Summer Concert Series opens Aug. 2 at the Tower Theatre and closes Aug. 13 at the Sunriver Resort Great Hall.
"I'm thrilled to share with you a season of orchestral mu-
sic that celebrates 150 years of French musical life, composers from Leipzig, Germany, and iconic music related to Vienna, Austria, including Beethoven’s epic 5th Symphony, which was premiered in Vienna in 1808,” Mitchell said. “Other highlights include the appearance of a 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition medalist, a tribute to legendary scores from Broadway and film, and a fun family concert."
Ticket sales for Friends of the Festival members begin as early as April 1; tickets are available to the public on June 1. Members have first choice of the best seats, plus receive ticket discounts, gifts, invites to special events, and potential
Sunriver Style
tax benefits.
Sunriver Music Festival also presents free music education events and masterclasses during these two weeks in August. Most orchestra rehearsals are free and open to the public. More details to be announced.
Patrons who purchase a full six-concert series of classical concerts, pops and solo concert receive a 10% discount. Other flexible package options are available. Festival Orchestra single tickets start at $45; tick-
Sunriver Christian hosting blood drive on April 29
Sunriver Christian Fellowship is hosting a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 at Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18139 Cottonwood Road, across from the north end Marketplace. Church members will be there to assist you in the process.
Please call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter Sunriver Christian Fellowship to schedule an appointment.
You can maximize your blood donation and help more patients if you are an eligible type O, B- or A- donor. Consider making a “Power Red” donation, as red blood cells are the most commonly transfused blood component.
When you come in to donate, you help provide lifesav-
ing care to patients in need. You also receive the added benefit of a free mini-health assessment, provided by a trained Red Cross staff member. Prior to donating blood, all donors will receive a free health screening. At the time of your donation your blood pressure, hemoglobin, and pulse will be checked.
This information is recorded in your online donor profile where you can track and monitor your results.
You help patients of all ages and health needs, including accident victims, new mothers, many types of surgeries, and organ transplant patients and those battling cancer. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Each year an estimated 6.8 million people donate blood, which is only 3-5% of our population.
New donors are always needed, and donors can give every 56 days. One donation can save more than one life.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship is looking forward to seeing many community members on April 29. Make your appointment now.
Dave Drescher gives blood at the last drive at Sunriver Christian Fellowship.
Turn to SRMF, page 7
SRMF conductor Brett Mitchell and the Festival Orchestra perform at the Tower Theatre in Bend.
DAVID YOUNG-WOLFF
ets for age 25 & under are $25. Details and tickets are available at sunrivermusic.org or by calling 541-593-9310.
2025 Summer Festival Concert Schedule
Orchestra concerts conducted by maestro Brett Mitchell.
• Opening Classical Concert: A French Soirée
Saturday, Aug. 2, 7:30 p.m. Tower Theatre, Bend
–Dukas Fanfare from La Péri
–Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major by Stewart Goodyear, piano
–Fauré Suite from Pelléas et Mélisande
–Bizet Selections from Carmen
Opening Night celebrates several important 150th anniversaries in French musical life. The evening kicks off with the Fanfare from Dukas' La Péri for the brass alone. Stewart Goodyear plays the Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the composer‘s birth. The second half opens with Fauré's stunningly beautiful Suite from Pelléas et Mélisande. And the program closes with selections from Bizet's Carmen to mark the 150th anniversary of both
Bizet's passing and Carmen's premiere.
• Pops Concert: A Tribute to Broadway & Film Music
Sunday, Aug. 3, 7:30 p.m. Tower Theatre, Bend Enjoy the Festival Orchestra in a tribute celebrating musical anniversaries from Broadway (80th anniversary of Carousel and 50th anniversaries of A Chorus Line and Chicago) and the great composer of light concert music, Leroy Anderson, who passed away 50 years ago. Many of Anderson's works were premiered by the Boston Pops, and the orchestra will perform a selection of his greatest hits. The second half highlights great film score anniversaries from 1965 through 1995, including “The Sound of Music,” “Jaws,” “Out of Africa” and more.
• Classical Concert II: The Classical Tradition
Thursday, Aug. 7, 7:30 p.m.
Tower Theatre, Bend
–William Bolcom Commedia for (Almost) 18th-Century Orchestra
–Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme by Mark Kosower, cello –Mozart Overture to The Marriage of Figaro –Stravinsky Danses Concertantes
Experience different takes on what "classical" music is, rooted in the Classical Era. The Bolcom piece is a fun take on the classical overture that audiences always love. This is followed by Mark Kosower, principal cellist of The Cleveland Orchestra, joining us for Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations, which were inspired by his role model, Mozart. The evening closes with Stravinsky’s brilliantly neoclassical Danses Concertantes.
• Family Concert Friday, Aug. 8, 3 p.m. at
SHARC’s Benham Hall in Sunriver.
This entertaining matinee presents orchestral music in a fun, informal setting. Bring the whole family and enjoy a one-hour concert featuring a virtuosic Young Artists Scholarship recipient with the full Festival Orchestra. An instrument petting zoo is presented prior to the concert. Maestro Brett Mitchell will introduce the various sections of the orchestra for young ears to enjoy, featuring Les Toreadors from Carmen, Leroy Anderson’s Bugler's Holiday and more.
• Classical Concert III: The Leipzig Connection
Monday, Aug. 11, 7:30 p.m.
Sunriver Resort Great Hall
–Schumann Manfred Overture
–Mendelssohn Violin Concerto by Yi Zhao, violin –J.S. Bach Toccata and Fugue in D minor (arr. Luke Styles)
–J.S. Bach Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major
This concert features the three most central composers in the musical life of Leipzig. After Schumann's lively Manfred Overture, Concertmaster Yi Zhao performs the everpopular Mendelssohn Violin Concerto. The second half is all Bach, including a chamber orchestra arrangement of the Toccata and Fugue in D minor
(famous from Fantasia) and Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major (featuring the famous Air on the G String).
• Solo Piano Concert
Tuesday, Aug. 12, 7:30 p.m. Sunriver Resort Great Hall
The picturesque Great Hall sets the scene for a solo piano concert by a 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition medalist, to be announced. This June, tune into the world’s pre-eminent piano competition at cliburn.org to see who our soloist will be.
• Season Finale Classical Concert: Vienna Waits For You
Wednesday, Aug. 13, 7:30 p.m. Sunriver Resort Great Hall
–Haydn Symphony No. 96, “Miracle“
–Mozart Piano Concerto TBA
2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition medalist
–Beethoven Symphony No. 5
This Classical Era program centers around Beethoven‘s 5th (the most iconic symphony of all time), paired with the “Miracle“ Symphony by his teacher, Haydn. A Mozart piano concerto will be performed by a 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition medalist, to be announced.
Glimer, Eagle Cap Lane
“We remodeled our Sunriver home during the pandemic, but we were able to count on our architect, Steve Nuetzel. He made the transition from the original footprint to the new one ow smoothly.”
Honyak, Elk Lane
“We absolutely LOVE the work Steve did for us.”
Hawkins, Crag Lane
“We love how the project turned out. Steve was very professional and did a great job.”
Mauss, Lowland Lane
“The house turned out awesome, thank you so much for your help with the design and with the Design Committee.”
DeLand, Pine Mountain Lane
“We are so happy with the new space. Thanks, Steve! Great job!”
Kufeld, Rager Mountain Lane
“Thank you once again for building upon our vision for the renovation of our home!”
FOR FORTY YEARS, THE LAST TEN IN CENTRAL OREGON, MY ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE HAS FOCUSED ON PROVIDING UNIQUE, BESPOKE RESIDENTIAL DESIGN IN BEAUTIFUL NATURAL SETTINGS. I WOULD LOVE TO TALK WITH YOU ABOUT YOUR BUILDING PROJECT IN SUNRIVER OR BEYOND!
Steve Nuetzel
Violinist Yi-Zhao will perform Aug. 11 at Sunriver Resort.
Birds sing like artists create… with joy
By Karla Proud
Spring has arrived. Green is beginning to replace the winter landscape, the birds are busy building nests and the artists at Artists’ Gallery Sunriver are inspired to create colorful new works.
Please join us on April 12 for a fun Second Saturday event at the gallery from 4 to 6 p.m. Enjoy a sip of wine, some nibbles, and wonderful artist’s demonstrations. Learn something new and meet the many new artists who have joined the gallery in the past few months.
Emily McFadden (The Fringed Hour) creates precise and beautiful earrings and bracelets with high-quality Japanese seed beads. Her color selections are quite beautiful
and varied.
“Attention to detail in my work, collaborating, and sourcing high-quality materials from other small businesses are of utmost importance to me,”
McFadden said. “I really enjoy being a ‘maker,’ and my inspirations are limitless. I typically begin with the colors and the designs come next.”
McFadden’s latest design is a stretchy colorful bracelet… comfort and design detail set these new pieces apart. Join us in April 12 to see her creativity in action.
Loom weaver Perry Drevo creates beautiful table runners, scarves and shawls with intricate detailed patterns. Many of her pieces feature “ikat.” Ikat is a centuries old art and tech-
nique of resist dyeing patterns into threads before weaving.
“My beautiful woven scarves and table runners are examples of this exacting process. I tied the pattern and then dyed all the yarns before weaving. I have
primarily indigo dyed as well as other dyed pieces displayed at Artists’ Gallery,” Drevo said.
“Having a lifelong love of textiles with vibrant colors and a diversity of fibers, I decided to pursue my life-long dream of weaving. In my naturally sunlit studio, equipped with multishaft looms, it is fun to see the interplay of colors for a simple
scarf to an intricately structured shawl come alive.”
Artists’ Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Village at Sunriver. The 35 local artists work in the gallery and look forward to sharing the arts of Central Oregon.
For information, visit www. artistsgallerysunriver.com or call 541 593-4382.
Woven tactile by Perry Drevo.
Beadwork earrings by Emily McFadden.
Arbor Day is coming
National Arbor Day is April 25 and Sunriver is celebrating Arbor week April 18-26. As a part of the celebration SROA will be offering free, bare root ponderosa pine seedlings to owners. Owners can pick up seedlings in front of the SROA Admin building, SHARC and at the Sunriver Nature Center April 18-26. Each household may take one bundle of five seedlings while supplies last, so make sure to get yours early.
When owners get their seedlings, they can follow these tips for a successful transplantation:
• Protect the seedling during transport to avoid bruising the bark and breaking branches and buds.
• Keep the roots moist and covered. “If they dry out, they
will die out!”
• Plant promptly! Keep the tree in a cool, shady location until it is time to plant.
• Ponderosas like sun, but if they are unable to be watered, look for an area with dappled sunlight and mulch well.
• Think about how large the tree and its roots will be in 5 years, in 10 years, etc. Will it have enough room? The seedlings should be planted with a 10-12’ spacing from other seedlings and trees.
• Remove grass, weeds and turf within a 2’ radius of the planting hole. These plants compete with the tree for water and nutrients.
• Dig a hole slightly deeper than the depth of the roots. The roots should be planted straight
down, and the collar (where the trunk flares to meet the roots) of the seedlings should be at the ground level The tree will die if the top of the root plug
Time to clean up: FireFree disposal dates
You have finished “spring cleaning” your yard and now have several large piles of pine needles, twigs and pinecones. The question is what to do with it?
Property owners can take their yard debris for free to area transfer station locations during FireFree days coming in May.
Acceptable materials include grass clippings, brush and other vegetative prunings, pine needles, pinecones, weeds, branches, and small stumps or trees no larger than 12 inches diameter.
Materials that are not accepted include sod, dirt, rocks, lumber, trash or plastics of any kind, and stumps or trees larger
is exposed to the air, or rot if planted deeper than the root collar.
• Gently cover with soil making sure to keep the roots
than 12 inches diameter.
Drop-off locations and dates:
• Sunriver Environmental (aka Lake Penhollow): FridaySaturday, May 2-3, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• La Pine Transfer Station: Monday-Saturday, May 16-24, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (closed May 18)
• Knott Landfill: Daily, May 2-11, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
as straight as possible and then pack the soil in and around the seedling.
• Create a small soil ring around the plant as a watering basin to allow water to pool in place instead of running off.
• Water the seedling with about one gallon every one to two weeks for the first year. Overwatering can be just as bad as underwatering.
Owners are welcome to plant the ponderosa seedlings anywhere on their private properties or SROA commons during the month of April as part of SROA’s Arbor Day celebration. Owners that wish to plant seedlings during other months should contact SROA Community Development at 541-593-6645 or designinfo@ srowners.org to discuss planting and permitting requirements before doing anything.
Adventure Begins at Your Doorstep
Spring is in the air at Caldera Springs, the Pacific Northwest’s premier residential community—where family-friendly adventure is just moments from home. Bike along forested trails, cast a line in sunlit lakes or tee off beneath the towering pines. Whether you’re paddling under bluebird skies or gathering for lakeside dining, each day offers a fresh way to explore.
This guide shows what not to do to ensure seedling success.
IMAGE COURTESY OSU EXTENSION. CREATED BY ROSE, R., AND P. MORGAN. 1992.
Debris can be taken to Sunriver Environmental (aka Lake Penhollow) off Cottonwood Road during FireFree days May 2-3.
owner enrichment activities
Upcoming spring classes hosted by Sunriver You
According to Henry Ford, “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”
Spring is upon us and the number of hours of sunlight increases daily. It’s time to head out to learn or do something or explore someplace new!
Speaking of which, attend the spring travel forum and/or Spirited Wild Horses of Southeast Oregon classes to learn of places high and low, north and south or a little more than two hours from Sunriver that may entice you to zip home and plan a trip.
Are you planning to stay close to home this year? Sign up for the Explore All Your Library has to Offer class to discover how your library card provides access to books and access to a world of other resources. Have you intended to learn how to age in place at home, play pétanque, or meditate? Read on and check those items off your to-do list.
All classes require registration through www.sunriveryou. com. NOTE: Some class sizes are limited and noted in the description. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the class start time. The Sunriver You website also includes an option to view
All Sunriver You classes require registration, which closes 24 hours before the class start time. Please visit sunriveryou.com to register.
recorded forums and select classes on YouTube. Check out what you may have missed at and watch for future additions www.sunriveryou.com/videos.
High and Low, North and South: Adventures Off the Beaten Path
Wednesday, April 2 at 4 p.m. at SHARC.
During a whirlwind travel forum that will take you from sea level to Himalayan heights, and from the southern Indian Ocean to the Canadian Far North, come learn about three fascinating destinations off the beaten path: the Indian Ocean island territories of Australia, the polar bears of Arctic Canada, and the mountains and culture of Bhutan. Stay afterwards for a BYOB social time.
Presented by Nancy Pietroski, Cheryl Vieira and Kathy and John Vogel. Pietroski is a travel
pharmacist whose journey to Bhutan included kayaking and cultural excursions. Vieira's trip to view polar bears is one of dozens of trips she's taken worldwide. Kathy Vogel and her daughter hiked the Druk Path Trek in Bhutan together.
Aging in Place Gracefully at Home
Wednesday, April 23, 45:30 p.m. at SHARC.
Join this informative class on Aging in Place designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate aging with confidence and dignity. The presenters will explore valuable resources to help you, or your loved ones, live comfortably and independently. Topics will include inhome caregiving, home health care services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and skilled nursing, as well as palliative and hospice care. Additionally, they will discuss local resources for both clinical and non-clinical support to ensure a holistic approach to aging well in the comfort of your own home.
Presented by Andy Mosman and Simeon Rose who both share a passion for assisting seniors. Mosman attended the University of Oregon, where
he majored in Human Physiology with honors focusing on cardiopulmonary research. After graduation, he worked in biomedical research for several years and was a CNA II at various Oregon hospitals. Rose recently became the community relations specialist with Partners In Care, a local nonprofit provider of hospice, home health, palliative care and transitions, coordinating outreach, education and referrals. Rose holds a BA and MA in the field of linguistics.
Spirited Wild Horses of Southeast Oregon
Thursday, April 24, 2 p.m. at SHARC.
Oregon has numerous herds of wild horses. Two of the well known herds in Southeast Oregon are the Kiger Mustangs and the Steens herd. The Kiger Mustangs are descendants of the Spanish conquistador’s horses who escaped and now thrive in the wilds of southeast Oregon. The South Steens herds are comprised of pintocolored horses with above average conformation. Both herds are managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Presented by Tara Thissell, Manager of the BLM Wild Horse Program in Burns and Loretta Slepikas who has photographed and studied the Kiger Mustangs and Steen herds over the years. Thissell
has worked for BLM’s Burns District for more than 23 years. She has extensive experience and knowledge in public land management including all facets of the agency's Wild Horse and Burro Program.
Explore All Your Library has to Offer
Wednesday, May 14, 2 p.m. at the Sunriver Library.
Our library cards provide access to books, but did you know that it also gives us access to a world of other resources? Learn about library history and how a library runs. Explore the resources, databases, apps, kits and other services your library card gives you access to in this 45-minute presentation. Bring your questions to share. Registration is limited to 50.
Graham Fox is a dedicated Community Librarian at Deschutes Public Library (DPL), where he has been serving the community for 10 years. Over the course of his career, he has held various roles, including managing the Redmond Library and serving as a librarian there. Currently, Fox focuses on community outreach, teaching technology, resume assistance, and supporting non profits with research and technology needs. You can find him across all six libraries in the DPL system through-
The Second Tern Linen Department
The Second Tern’s Linen Department members are Carol Pinnell, Andrea Peterson, Kathy Glading, Laurie Henberg and Gayle Otteni, all of whom have volunteered at the Tern for 3, 5, 20, 10, and 2 years, respectively.
Nine years ago, a Scene article featured Kathy Glading as the April 2016 Tern Volunteer of the Month. Here is some well-remembered text from that article. “Sure, you know the difference between twin, double, queen and king sheets but how about standard versus deep pockets? And, no, we are not referring to a major donor to a political campaign, either. But deep pockets is a topic with which Second Tern Linen Department volunteers are very familiar. Just so you know, sheets can have standard pockets (6-10 inches in length) or deep pockets of 14-16 inches in length designed to fit those thick mattresses that many people have these days.”
The Linen Department specializes in sheets, towels, comforters, pillows and bedding
of various types. And there are specific ways to fold, tie together, label and price each item as it comes into the Second Tern. Linens also covers quilts, holiday/Christmas textiles, couch covers, tablecloths, placemats, blankets, decorative pillows and more.
Carol Pinnell, in conjunction with a travel business she owned which arranged tours for, among others, museum and textile groups, has traveled to 137 countries. She is the department’s expert in identification of fabric types and countries of origin. Pinnell has lived in Central Oregon full-time for 10 years. She first came to the Tern as a shopper but quickly became known as the shopping lady who knew a lot about fabrics. After giving advice at various times, she was finally convinced to volunteer.
Andrea Peterson came to Central Oregon about five years ago from California where she taught elementary school in Watts, owned an organic farm in San Diego County for 40 years, and ran a bed and break-
fast on the farm for 10 years. Upon moving to Sunriver, she quickly became involved with the Tern.
Kathy Glading has volunteered in the linens department for more than 20 years and knows everything there is to know about the linens department because, at various times, she has been the entire department. Glading taught adult education and did computer programming in California
Silent Meditation: Ongoing drop-in gathering and teaching class
out the week, meeting with patrons and running valuable programs.
Learn to Play the Game of Pétanque
Tuesdays, May 20, June 10 or July 22, 10 a.m. at Mary McCallum pétanque courts just west of the parking lot.
What are those balls people throw at Mary McCallum Park? What is that word, pétanque? What does it mean? Well, all those questions and more can be answered if you take a pétanque (pronounced puh-tonk) class this spring or summer. In the meantime, pétanque is a game similar to Bocce and the word is French for “feet planted.” Stay after class and practice with each other. Each class is limited to 12 participants.
Sunriver has an active pétanque club of approximately 35 members. Players of all abilities are welcome. No prior experience or equipment needed.
Gary Bigham started playing pétanque in Seattle at French-American Chamber of Commerce picnics around 1995. In 2016, Bigham and his wife moved from Kirkland to Sunriver. After two summers of no pétanque, Bigham got together with a small group interested in learning the game in the spring of 2019.
• First and third Friday, 10–11 a.m. in the Crescent Room at SHARC. NOTE: There is no class on April 4.
• Drop-in class – no registration required.
• All are welcome as is any silent meditation practice.
• Sessions include a 20-minute silent sit. Teaching and introduction to companion practices will be offered in addition to the silent sit.
• Chairs will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring a cushion and other items for your comfort.
• Those new to silent meditation are welcome. Instruction will be provided.
• Please arrive 5 minutes early so we can start and end on time. Bette Butler has been commissioned by Contemplative Outreach, Ltd. as a presenter of the Centering and Welcoming practices. A silent meditation practitioner since 2018, Butler leads a centering practice group on Zoom and is co-coordinator of Contemplative Outreach of Central Oregon, which offers periodic contemplative events throughout the area. Contact Butler at butlerbdewitt@ gmail.com for more information or if you have a question.
back in the early days of that industry but has lived in Central Oregon for 38 years.
Laurie Henberg first came to Sunriver from Idaho on a spring break ski trip in the early 1980s. She and her spouse,
com/jlainvolve/sunriver-ooh
What’s included:
• Conceptual alternatives for the intersection improvements at Venture Lane and Spring River Road.
• Information about how the improvements will enhance traffic flow, safety and accessibility for all road users.
• Opportunities to provide feedback and ask questions directly to the project team. The feedback gathered during this open house will be used to refine the proposed designs and guide the team as the project moves forward. The county will host a second online open house showing the recommended roundabout designs later this summer. For additional information or questions, please email roadprojects@deschutescounty. gov or call 541-388-6581.
Kathy Glading, Andrea Peterson and Carol Pinnell.
Building wildfire resilience in Sunriver: Lessons from nature
By Sunriver Nature Center Staff
Last summer, Sunriver residents experienced a Level 2 evacuation due to the immediate threat of a wildfire – a stark reminder of the community’s vulnerability.
As winter’s snow recedes and temperatures rise, discussions have emerged regarding this year’s mild winter, and its potential impact on future wildfire activity.
The pressing question remains: What more can we do to mitigate the risks associated with forest fires?
Natural ecosystems have evolved over millennia to maintain equilibrium. Fire plays a
crucial role in many environments, including Central Oregon’s dry forests. Species such as ponderosa pine have adapted to withstand low-intensity fires, growing tall with well-spaced stands that naturally reduce fire spread.
However, forest ecosystems are intricate networks where actions in one area invariably influence others, often in unforeseen ways. Fire behavior is influenced by multiple factors, including but not limited to:
• Forest density
• Invasive species like cheatgrass
• Climate patterns
• Human land use and development
For the past 20-plus years the Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) has made significant strides in fire mitigation by requiring ladder fuel reduction and the creation of defensible space on private properties, conducting ladder fuel reduction on SROA common land, supporting forest thinning and fuel reduction initiatives on surrounding public lands, and working closely with partner agencies in these initiatives.
Additionally, SROA has taken great steps in recent years to educate property owners through FireWise programs and ladder fuels reduction and rule enforcement. However, continued collaboration and community participation are essential to strengthening these efforts and ensuring long-term resilience.
Every resource we use carries inherent environmental, economic, or social costs. Past decades of fire suppression without active land management resulted in dangerously dense forests, making wildfires more intense and uncontrollable. While proactive measures such as thinning, creating defensible spaces, home hardening, and conducting prescribed burns require an upfront investment, they ultimately protect lives, property, and our natural environment.
Sunriver’s land management strategies, including selective
thinning and fire-adapted landscaping, align well with this principle. Continuing to promote the use of native, fireresistant plant species within all commercial, recreational, residential and common areas can further enhance these efforts.
The community’s commitment to balancing land use with fire prevention is commendable with ongoing support from all our community members as well as adaptation being crucial as conditions change. In this vein, the Sunriver community and the Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) have taken significant steps to reduce wildfire risk, including:
• Creating defensible space requirements for all properties and common areas
• Investing in ongoing forest thinning and fuels reduction projects
• Providing FireWise education programs to property
owners
• Implementing emergency evacuation planning and communication strategies
• Partnering with regional fire agencies for coordinated response efforts Despite human efforts to suppress fire, it remains an inevitable part of the landscape. The key is learning to coexist with fire rather than trying to eliminate it altogether. Proactive strategies like controlled burns, fire-adapted landscaping, and strategic land management can reduce the likelihood of catastrophic wildfires while also maintaining ecological balance for native wildlife.
Recent wildfire seasons have demonstrated the importance of staying informed and prepared. However, reinforcing community education, working with partner agencies, and
Low density fires keep forest undergrowth in check.
Honoring Arbor Day in Sunriver: A celebration of trees
By Shannon Ries, Executive Director SNCO
Ah, Arbor Day – the one holiday where hugging is encouraged, and the recipient won’t awkwardly pat you on the back or try to escape. Here in Sunriver, where ponderosa pines stand like sentinels and aspens quiver at the mere mention of a breeze, Arbor Day is the perfect excuse to breathe in some pine-scented air and appreciate the silent giants that make this place special.
At the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (SNCO), we believe trees deserve more than just a once-a-year nod of appreciation. They work tirelessly cleaning our air, shading our hikes, and providing free real estate to birds with no con-
Wildfire
ensuring all residents understand these protocols remains a priority.
By embracing these principles and proactively managing our natural surroundings, Sunriver can continue to strengthen its wildfire resilience, protecting both the community and the environment. These ongoing efforts, in collaboration with local organizations like the Sunriver Nature Center, help create a more fire-resilient landscape while prioritizing community safety.
The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (SNCO) plays a vital role in wildfire preparedness, offering expertise and practical solutions through initiatives such as:
cept of personal space. Whether you plant a tree, take a stroll
• Fire-wise landscaping guidance
• Project Ponderosa – a dedicated nursery cultivating native, fire-resistant trees
SNCO alongside SROA helps to provide the community with the tools and knowledge needed to proactively reduce wildfire risk. With collaboration, education and ecological stewardship, Sunriver can continue to
through the woods, or support local conservation efforts, there are some fun ways to celebrate Arbor Day in Sunriver.
How to celebrate Arbor Day in Sunriver
• Plant a Tree: Give your yard the gift of a ponderosa pine, a tree that practically wrote the book on surviving in the high desert. With fireresistant bark thicker than your grandmother’s lasagna, these towering beauties can withstand flames, drought and the occasional overly enthusiastic squirrel. Their sparse lower branches make them less likely to spread fire to the canopy, keeping Sunriver green and fire-wise. In celebration of
foster a fire-resilient landscape that protects both the people who call it home and the natural beauty that surrounds us.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is at 57245 River Road, Sunriver, off Circle 3, on the way to the airport and marina. For information, volunteer opportunities, current hours, other programs, or questions: 541-593-4394 or www. snco.org
Arbor Day, the Sunriver Owners Association is offering free ponderosa bareroot seedlings at SNCO, the SROA administration office and at SHARC from April 18 to April 27, while supplies last.
Day nature walk at SNCO and celebrate the beauty of Sunriver’s forests. Visit www.snco. org for additional information. • The "Giving Tree" challenge: Want to test your true tree-loving credentials? We dare you, yes, dare you – to find your favorite tree, sit beneath it and read Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” out loud. If you make it through without crying, feeling unexpectedly guilty, or immediately bonding with the tree you’re sitting under, well… Sunriver might not be the place for you. Maybe cities,
• Explore Sunriver’s trails: Trees don’t ask for much – just a little sunshine, a bit of rain, and the occasional moment of admiration. Take a leisurely walk through Sunriver’s many nature trails, soak in the sights and listen to the wind whispering through the branches. It’s nature’s version of a spa day – minus the cucumber slices. Join us for a special Arbor Turn to Arbor Day, page 17
Hug a tree this Arbor Day
Marv, liked the area so much, but never spent time here in the summer until 1990, when they bought a home in Sunriver. It was a vacation home, and once they moved to the Willamette Valley, they were able to make use of it more often prior to retirement. She has volunteered at the Tern for 10 years and shares. “Being a volunteer lets me work alongside a dedicated, talented and fun group of people. It is gratifying to work at the Second Tern, the best little thrift store in Central Oregon.”
Gayle Otteni has lived almost all her life in Oregon, with a 16-year detour to Colorado. Born in Astoria, she first bought property in the La Pine area in 1977. A retired nurse, she worked in nursing for 45 years, with the last 25 years in home health. Volunteering at the Tern is a “family” business for Gayle as her spouse, Bob,
spends his time at the Tern in receiving and sometimes fills in with tools or sporting goods. When asked about unusual items, the volunteers described linen items that range from delicate doilies to king size bedding sets, beautiful handmade quilts, antique and embroidered tablecloths, handwoven textiles from overseas, 100% cotton sheets, and many, many Christmas linens that fly off the shelves.
As with many donations that come into the Tern, not all sheets, blankets, pillows and more, are initially ready for sale. Linens are checked for
cleanliness, tears, and other damage. Volunteers often take items home to wash before folding and packaging for sale. However, items that cannot be suitably cleaned or fixed are recycled in various ways. A slightly damaged sofa throw becomes a “doggy blanket.” Miscellaneous mismatched towels are bagged up and sold as “shop towels.” Single sheets are sold to quilters for backing. Overstocked blankets and more are passed on to veteran organizations, the La Pine Community Center, Furnish Hope and other similar groups.
Reasons given as to why these ladies volunteer at the Tern include working with a fun group of people, supporting the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, providing good quality merchandise at reasonable prices for great customers, and keeping items out of the landfill. Come and join in the fun. The Tern is flexible and will work around anyone’s
schedule.
The Second Tern is located at 17377 Spring River Road, just west of Harper Bridge, and is open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. year-round; donations accepted 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The Second Tern benefits Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory. Sunriver Nature
Center & Observatory is located at 57245 River Road, off Circle 3, on the way to the airport and marina. Check www. snco.org for current hours and programs.
For volunteering, more information, or questions: 541-5933367 (Tern), 541-593-4394 (Nature Center), or www. snco.org.
Exhibition of ‘Impulses’ on display at COCC art gallery
An art exhibition of abstract oil canvases by California artist Gwen Lowery, titled “Impulses,” will be on display in Central Oregon Community College’s (COCC) Bend campus’s Health Careers Center’s first floor gallery through May 28. The building is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Having worked in the machine-embroidery art medium for more than 20 years creating large-scale two- and three-dimensional pieces, Lowery shifted her focus midway through the COVID-19 pandemic, when the gradual, methodi-
cal speed of stitching became frustratingly slow.
While her inspiration remains unchanged – the natural world combined with her internalization of the state of the world – she now works more spontaneously in the abstract.
“I am influenced by the news of the day and by the colors and forms in the rural slice of the Northern California coast where I live,” said the artist, whose formal training is from City & Guilds of London Institute. “My art comes to life in curvilinear forms and active lines, with texture created through applying, then removing, paint – showing all their interactions, or lack thereof.”
For information, contact Tina Hovekamp, director of library services, at 541-3837295 or thovekamp@cocc.edu
Laurie Henberg, left, and Gayle Otteni.
SROA Committees
Contact the chair if you have questions about a committee or the projects they are currently working on
SROA Board of Directors
Gerhard Beenen, president sroaboard@srowners.org
Covenants
Tony De Alicante covenants@srowners.org
Design
Charlie Meyer, chair designinfo@srowners.org
Election Chair open election@srowners.org
Finance
Clark Pederson, chair finance@srowners.org
Nominating
Debbie Baker, chair nominating@srowners.org
Owner Enrichment
Mark Fisler, chair ownerenrichment@srowners.org
APRIL MEETINGS & GATHERINGS
ALL subject to
Please join us for mass
• Saturday at 5:30 pm
• Sunday at 8 am
Proceeds
Step into history with the John Gray residence, the birthplace of Sunriver Resort Developed by Gray, who also created Salishan Resort, this home was completed in 1969 with classic mid-century elegance and a high mountain aesthetic Crafted with clear cedar and timbers, likely by the same artisans behind The Sunriver Lodge, this sophisticated retreat spans over an acre off Fairway Lane, offering stunning golf course and Cascade views The nearly 4,000 sq ft main home features 4 bedrooms, 3 5 baths, and a warm inviting atmosphere A second 1 686 sq ft structure includes a bonus/office space, 1 5 baths, a sauna, and versatile areas for creativity or guests Designed for indoor-outdoor living, enjoy a large patio, hot tub, swimming pool, and mature landscaping for privacy MLS#: 220195621
Own a true Sunriver icon where history was made and new memories await.
Group Gatherings
These groups meet regularly, same time, same place
Monday
Ladies Lunch and Bridge 11:30 a.m. Village Bar & Grill Sign up: 593-5906 or 536-1533
Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Pozzi building at the Sunriver Nature Center
Tuesday
Mountain Meadow Quilters 1 p.m. second Tuesday of the month at Community Bible Church Info: 302-378-8446
Partners Bridge
3 p.m., Crescent room at SHARC. $1, register/info: 541-556-6408
Wednesday
Sunriver Rotary
7:45 a.m., Hearth Room at the Sunriver Lodge www.sunriver-lapinerotary.org
Sunriver Republicans
5:30 p.m. second Wednesday of the month. 20 Maury Mtn. Lane
We’re excited to welcome Max to The Jones Group as a licensed real estate broker in Central Oregon! With a background in marketing, media production, and visual storytelling, Max has helped showcase countless properties through his expertise in real estate photography and videography Now, he s combining his marketing skills with our team’s 40+ years of experience to help buyers and sellers navigate the market with confidence Welcome to the team, Max!
Women’s Club members have fun while making a difference in the community
April is National Volunteer Month, first recognized in the United States by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, as a time to recognize volunteers for their contributions.
The Sunriver Women’s Club (SRWC) members logged more than 10,000 hours of volunteer time in 2024 to help neighbors, build community and have fun.
The Sunriver Women's Club is all about philanthropy. It took more than 4,000 volunteer hours to produce the Art Meets Wine in the High Desert and the Sunriver Art Fair fundraisers and then evaluate requests for grants from the money raised. The club's philanthropy program awards grants to public schools and nonprofits serving people who live in south Deschutes County. The philanthropy program has five priorities: child safety, hunger prevention, safe housing, education and youth development, and physical and mental health.
SRWC members build community by sponsoring events
like the Sunriver Community Picnic, picking up trash along South Century Drive, and initiating fundraising efforts like the recent campaign focused on keeping students engaged in and graduating from high school.
SRWC is an all-volunteerrun organization. There is no paid executive director as is common in nonprofit organizations of the same size and complexity. A volunteer board of directors administers the organization following state and federal regulations for 501(c) (3) nonprofits. Volunteers organize monthly happy hours, coffees and lunches. Volunteers support and maintain all of the activities run by the club. In 2024, kayaking, cycling and a community service club were added to the list of 14 program offerings.
According to the Mayo Clinic, research found that older adults who volunteer have improved physical and mental health. Volunteering reduces stress. Reduced stress decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke,
depression, anxiety and illness in general. People who volunteer live longer. Volunteering gives a sense of purpose, especially when giving time and talent in meaningful ways. And one of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships, is to participate in a shared activity. Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back? Or are you new to the area and hoping to create your community? Consider joining the Sunriver Women’s Club. More information is available at www. sunriverwomensclub.org.
President’s message
The Sunriver Women's Club is a vibrant group of women who have a great time socializing and at the same time are committed to making a meaningful and positive impact in our community.
A major fundraising event, Art Meets Wine in the High Desert, is May 17 at SHARC. Space is limited. Get your tickets at artmeetswine.org to enjoy
wine, art and great food. Plans are underway for the hiking, cycling and kayaking seasons. Check our website calendar to join a hike, ride or float and make some new friends. Monthly coffee breaks and happy hours are open to prospective members to learn more about the club.
SRWC trail maintenance crew, Mechelle Griffin, Renee Bumblis and Marybeth Collon, along the Black Rock Trail.
Tickets for the Art Meets Wine event available now
The popular Sunriver Women's Club (SRWC) Art Meets Wine in the High Desert returns to the SHARC for a seventh year from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 17. It features outstanding Oregon wines, fine food, original art and unique auction items.
Tickets for this all-inclusive event are now available at $85 per person at www. artmeetswine.org and are limited to 300. An online auction opens before the event on April 7.
Arbor Day
continued from page 13
concrete and Wi-Fi hotspots are more your thing. No judgment – OK, maybe a little.
• Practice Sustainable Living: Want to be a tree’s best friend? Reduce waste, recycle paper, and support businesses that prioritize sustainable forestry practices.
• Get involved in tree care: Whether you're a green thumb or a serial houseplant killer,
The entry ticket includes food catered by La Paella, dessert by Hot Lava Bakery, a complimentary glass of wine and tastings from 12 wineries. Plus, there are artist demonstrations, raffles, a silent auction and a Wine Wall. An SRWC member donated 10 quilts from a family estate and additional quilts were donated to the event. The quilts will be displayed at SHARC on the new quilt wall and available at the online auction.
The featured wineries are
there’s always something you can do to support Sunriver’s forests. Volunteer with SNCO or Project Ponderosa to help remove invasive species, promote fire-safe landscaping and keep our communities’ trees healthy and thriving.
For expert tips on mulching, pruning and not accidentally planting your tree upsidedown, reach out to SNCO’s horticulturist, David Walker at Walker@snco.org.
• Support trees year-round – SNCO’s Project Ponderosa:
Abacela Winery, Bledsoe Family Vineyard, Clos Griotte, Eliana Wines, Ghost Hill Cellars, Ken Wright Cellars, Knostman Family Winery, Sunbreak Trium Winery, Utopia Wine, White Tail Ridge Vineyards and Willamette Valley Winery. Another addition to the event is Oregon Hall of Fame radio announcer R.L. Garrigus. He retired from the booth after 400,000 broadcasts to lend his voice to nonprofit work and teaching. The Art Meets Wine
Arbor Day is great, but trees don’t just clock in once a year –they’re working 24/7, 365 days a year. That’s why Project Ponderosa at SNCO is committed to year-round conservation. Why ponderosa pines? These towering titans aren’t just pretty, they’re also tough as nails. Ponderosas thrive in Sunriver’s dry, high-desert climate, they are naturally fire-resistant thanks to their thick bark and high-branching structure, and they provide essential wildlife habitat for birds, squirrels, and
team is proud to have him emcee the event.
Net proceeds and all donations support the SRWC Community Grant program that builds a strong network of services to improve the lives of people in our community. The program gives to nonprofits and public schools that provide services in five priority areas and exclusively to people living in south Deschutes County. More information can be found at sunriverwomensclub.org.
other critters that call Sunriver home.
Through Project Ponderosa, SNCO is working to:
• Plant and protect native ponderosa pines throughout Sunriver
• Educate residents and visitors on the importance of these trees
• Promote sustainable landscaping practices to keep Sunriver green and fire-resilient
Want to help? Volunteer opportunities are available.
Contact SNCO’s Volunteer
Coordinator, Lily, at lily@snco. org to dig in (literally).
Whether you plant a tree, take a walk among the pines, or lend a hand with Project Ponderosa, every action contributes to a healthier, greener future. Let’s come together as a community to celebrate, protect and appreciate our forests not just on Arbor Day, but every day.
So go ahead, give a tree a hug. It won’t hug back but trust us it appreciates the love.
Happy Arbor Day, Sunriver!
Art Meets Wine in the High Desert volunteer, Kathy Brown.
Blue Winged Olive Improved Sparkle Dun
Materials List
Hook: Tiemco 2487, or Daiichi 1130 in sizes 16-18
Thread: Rusty dun UNI 8/0
Trailing Shuck: Crinkled Zelon in baetis
olive
Abdomen: Rusty dun
Thorax: Superfine dubbing in blue wing olive
Wing: Early season comparadun deer hair, backed with baetis olive zelon
Tying Instructions:
Wind a layer of thread from the tail set position to the front of the hook.
Clip a clump of natural sparkle dun deer hair, which is from an early season deer before its winter coat emerges. This hair has very short black tips and flairs the proper amount for the sparkle dun. Stack the hair in a hair stacker and tie in at the wing position on the hook. Wind thread several wraps behind the wing and then forward through the hair to the head of the fly. This will help ensure the hair stands up straight to form the wing. Clip the butts tightly to form a very sparse bump behind the wing and cover them with thread wraps. This will form the structure for the thorax of this fly.
Clip a piece of Zelon and tie in right behind the wing with a portion extending to form a secondary wing into the deer hair and extending about the same height as the wing. Wind consecutive wraps of thread over the Zelon back towards the tail set position, leaving a portion of the Zelon extending to form a trailing shuck approximately the length of the abdomen of the fly. Return the thread to the back of the thorax. I like to leave a very slight gap between thread wraps to let the Zelon show through the abdomen giving a slight segmented effect. It also allows the Zelon to glisten slightly, imitating a freshly hatching mayfly. Dun a sparse layer of superfine dubbing beginning over the rear of the thorax and extending to the head. Whip finish and lightly glue the head.
DE ALICANTE LAW GROUP LLC
By Phil Fischer
Some years ago, I attended a Craig Mathews Seminar. Mathews is a well-known fly fisherman, fly tier, conservationist and former owner of Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone, Montana. He has authored several books on fly patterns for the Yellowstone region and was a co-founder of 1% for the Planet, an organization that promotes contributing 1% of revenues from business to support environmental stewardship programs, such as those that benefit our fisheries. The seminar promised to feature some of the underfished waters around Yellowstone. Yet, I was most excited for the opportunity to watch him tie many of his well-known fly patterns. He tied a pattern that really caught my attention – the improved sparkle dun. I’ve tied and fished earlier versions of this fly for many years with good success in our local waters. Immediately, I could see the potential to adapt this pattern to our local hatches in Central Oregon. In past Fly Tying Corner articles, I have discussed mayfly cripple patterns. The improved sparkle dun is another proven cripple that works on fussy trout. The pattern rides low in the water, and the Zelon in this fly glistens and imitates air bubbles on the
emerging natural mayfly. This unique property of Zelon is one of the things that triggers strikes from hungry trout.
Immediately after Mathews’ seminar, I and numerous others got on the phone with Blue Ribbon Flies to order materials to tie Mathews’ patterns. This shop is the sole supplier of Zelon, having bought up the last of this product before it was discontinued some years ago by the manufacturer. Just a few days later, it almost felt like Christmas, as my package had arrived. In this package was a myriad of materials, with lots of different colors of Zelon, and several excellent pieces of sparkle dun and X-caddis deer hair.
I sat down at my vise that afternoon and began experimenting with some of the new patterns I had learned in the seminar. This pattern was one of the first of Mathews’ patterns to spring forth from my vise. I’ve now fished this pattern many times on slightly overcast blue wing olive days on the Crooked or Fall rivers. It works over fussy trout. If you have questions or need more information about this pattern, don’t hesitate to email me. Or, if you have suggestions on future patterns to feature in this column, I welcome your input. I can be reached at Philfischer@sbcglobal.net.
Winter fly fishing the Fall River and more
By Rynie Miyashiro
Join the Sunriver Anglers at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, April 2 to learn about fly fishing the Fall River during the winter months. Social and fish story time is 5:15-5:30 p.m. with the general meeting starting at 5:30 p.m. Members and the public are invited to this free presentation. Cookies and coffee are provided, and all are welcome to go out to dinner after the meeting. Bring a few bucks for raffle tickets.
April’s guest speaker will be Tony Selle, a seasoned guide out of The Hook Fly Shop in The Village at Sunriver. His presentation is called “Winter Fishing on the Fall River: Tactics and Observations.” Selle will talk about how he rigs up, and why he is always seen with two rods. He will discuss gear and flies that are proven winners, as well as giving insights into fish behavior and tips to help you catch more fish.
The Fall River is an eightmile, spring fed creek which pops out of the ground at its headwaters on South Century Drive, then travels to meet the
River
La
Park. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Sunriver. Also of note is the Fall River Hatchery, which is a must see while you are in the area. Bring a quarter so you can feed the fish.
Born in The Dalles, Selle is an Oregon State University graduate with a 30-year career working for the federal government assessing and managing land and resources.
He is a full-time Sunriver resident who started guiding for The Hook almost immediately after retirement. He picked up a fly rod 35 years ago, and he hasn’t put it down since. He is passionate about fishing the streams and rivers in Central Oregon, and he is excited to help both new and experienced anglers to catch fish on Central Oregon’s amazing waters.
Deschutes
near
Pine State
Tony Selle
Is your property prepared?
Sunriver owners won’t soon forget the 2024 Little Lava Fire that put the community into a Level 2 evacuation – coming within about 6 miles from Sunriver.
As spring approaches, and wildfire season follows behind it, now is the time to take preventative action, starting in your own backyard.
Studies have shown that a structure’s resistance to wildfire is significantly increased when defensible space is created and maintained within the surrounding 100 feet. This area, called the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ), is where embers and radiant heat are most likely to ignite a home. In order to combat home ignition and contribute to community wildfire risk reduction in Sunriver, the Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Natural Resources Department and Sunriver Fire Department urge all owners to create defensible space in their HIZ through two main methods: home hardening and ladder fuels reduction.
Home hardening is a “chimney to foundation” approach to reducing both fuel and possible entry points for embers within your home and the surrounding five feet of property. Ladder fuels reduction is a “foundation to property line” approach to create a break in the vegetation that will decrease fire behavior and increase the chances of a structure surviving a fire if assistance is unavailable.
“Over the years across Oregon, I’ve seen the evidence that when homeowners come together and prepare for wildfires on their properties, those homes have a much higher chance of still standing after catastrophic wildfires,” said OSFM Fire Risk Reduction Specialist Heather Miller. “Hardening your home and creating defensible space makes all the difference.”
When it comes to creating defensible space, knowing where to start is half the battle. If you’re already starting to feel overwhelmed, have no fear. Often the simplest actions are the most effective at preventing home ignition. Take a step-by-step approach and prioritize your projects using the following guide.
1) Conduct a self-assessment
Use the home hardening and ladder fuels checklists on the following pages (available at sunriverowners.org/lfr) to identify ways to make your home and property more defensible. Every box is important to check off, so the ones that are left blank represent the essential “To-Dos” on your defensible space project list.
2) Familiarize yourself with community standards
Sunriver is a Firewise USA community, which means that we make collaborative community efforts to be prepared for wildfire. An example of that collaborative effort is SROA’s Ladder Fuels Reduction (LFR) program. Review the LFR Plan, (available at sunriverowners.org/lfr) which details the standards for vegetation management that owners must maintain on their properties as well as SROA’s role in maintaining the common areas. Since lots in Sunriver are on the smaller side, working together is essential to achieve 100 feet of defensible space around every property. Compliance with the LFR Plan is mandatory for every property owner in Sunriver. If you have received an LFR Courtesy Letter or Notice of Deficiency from SROA, you have also received a personalized checklist of work that needs to be done on your property to reduce ladder fuels. Use this tool to your advantage, and in order to avoid future fines or loss of recreation access, move these tasks to the top of your list.
4) Start a maintenance routine
Experts agree that some of the most important defensible space work is routine maintenance. Start some fire aware habits and get the whole family involved. Check off some of these tasks in a weekend or less. You can find more LFR info on page 22.
• Clean pine needles, leaves and other debris out from gutters, roofs, building corners and beneath decks.
• Remove dead shrubs from your property.
• Remove ALL juniper and arborvitae. These species have been nicknamed “gasoline on a stick” by firefighters because of their high flammability. Investigate the use of fire-resistant shrubs in your landscape instead, like Siberian pea shrub or mockorange. A list of landscapeplants can be found at www.sunriverowners.org/landscaping
• Make sure weather stripping on doors, garages and windows is intact.
• Close off your fireplace flue during fire season.
• Make sure car and house windows are closed when leaving the property.
• Put away brooms, flammable outdoor furniture/cushions and other combustibles when not in use.
• Verify that vent screens are clean and covered with 1/8” metal mesh.
• Your community supports your efforts. Take advantage of SROA’s Ladder Fuels Pick-up Program and FireFree drop-off dates to avoid fees at the dump. Find details on page 22 and at sunriverowners.org/lfrpickup
5) Bring your property into compliance
Whether you’ve received a letter from SROA or not, you are responsible for ensuring you are meeting the standards outlined in the Sunriver LFR Plan. Now that you’ve completed your LFR checklist and reviewed the Plan:
• Remove bitterbrush and manzanita within 3’ beyond the driplines of conifer trees, within 15 feet of your structure and neighboring structures and excessive patches on your property.
• Remove branches that are too close to your house or chimney, and low limbs as outlined in the checklist and LFR Plan.
3) Keep an eye on your mailbox
As a courtesy to owners, the Natural Resources Department mails letters, notices and calls-to-action multiple times a year to keep you informed about the compliance status on your property, provide updates about programs on commons, and remind property owners about ongoing projects, such as mandatory juniper and arborvitae removal.
For more information, contact the
• Contact the SROA Natural Resources Department for a free Forest Management Permit to remove standing dead trees, and/or native pine trees and ponderosa seedlings that do not meet the minimum 6-8 foot spacing.
• Hire a contractor to remove permitted trees or do any other property maintenance you can’t do on your own.
How to remove limbs or branches?
1. Cut one-third of the way through the branch on the underside.
2. Go 2-4 inches beyond the undercut to remove the branch.
3. Make the nal cut just outside the branch bark ridge and trunk collar.
Does your property
Ladder Fuels Self-Assessment
Actions you take to manage the fuel load on your property determine how wild re will impact your home, structures, and vegetation. A “foundation to property line” approach that includes easy, small steps to reduce ladder fuels on your property can make all the di erence!
Items noted with the following symbols indicate:
Item is compulsory/required per the Sunriver LFR Plan
Item is advisory, allowed, or recommended per the Sunriver LFR Plan
Permit required. Contact SROA Natural Resources to request/obtain a free permit
Approval required. Contact SROA Community Development for information
Bitterbrush and manzanita within 15’ of any structure have been removed
Bitterbrush and manzanita within 3’ beyond the dripline of any conifer tree have been removed
Bitterbrush and manzanita have been removed to achieve less than 20% ground coverage
All juniper and arborvitae on the property and/or that encroaches into SROA Commons have been removed
Conifer landscaping shrubs within 5‘ of any structure or within 3’ beyond the dripline of a conifer tree have been removed
Branches and limbs
Branches on all conifer trees are trimmed to achieve a clearance of 5’ from any roof, wall, or structure, and 15’ from the chimney outlet
Any portion of live limbs on all pine trees have been trimmed to achieve a 6-8’ clearance from the ground on trees over 20’ tall and the lower 1/3 on trees under 20’
Any portion of dead conifer limbs have been trimmed to achieve a clearance of 10’ from the ground
Any portion of dead limbs on all non-conifer trees have been trimmed to achieve a 10’ clearance from the ground
Tree branches adjacent to driveway pavement edge have been pruned or removed to provide fourteen feet (14’) vertical clearance above the pavement surface for emergency vehicle access
* Pine trees larger than 4-inch diameter have been thinned to a minimum spacing of 6-8’ between trunks (Permit required)
*All standing dead trees except those designated as wildlife trees by SROA, have been removed (Permit required)
The property is free of downed materials (portions of trees, limbs, logs etc.)
^ Conifer trees as part of an approved landscape plan have a minimum spacing of 10’ between trunks and are not within 3’ beyond the dripline of any larger conifer tree (Approval required)
* Ponderosa seedlings are thinned to achieve a 6-8’ spacing (Permit required)
* Ponderosa seedlings growing into the canopy of larger Ponderosa trees have been removed (Permit required)
Lodgepole seedlings are thinned to a 6-8’ spacing
Lodgepole seedlings growing into the canopy of larger pine trees have been removed
All Lodgepole seedlings have been removed
Firewood is stored in a fully enclosed space (such as a garage) or at least 20’ away from all structures including neighboring structures during re season (May-November). If 20’ is not possible then it is stored to the furthest point possible from all structures.
Roofs, gutters and underneath decks are free of pine needles, leaves, etc.
Dead vegetation such as dead seedlings and shrubs have been removed
Areas under decks are free of non-vegetative ammable materials (lumber, furniture, etc.)
0-5’ zone extending from any structure (i.e. house, deck, enclosures, etc.) is free of any wood chips
0-5’ zone is free of any seedlings, shrubs, and branches
0-5’ zone has all dry grasses maintained with an average height less than four inches (4”) during re season
property pass the test?
Home Hardening Self-Assessment
Make e orts to increase your home or structure’s chances of survival when wild re strikes. A “chimney to foundation” approach that includes easy, small steps to harden (prepare) your home can make all the di erence!
Design Committee approval may be required. Contact SROA’s Community Development department for information.
Roofs and gutters have been cleared of pine needles and leaves
The roof’s shingles or tiles are in good condition
Any open spaces between the roof and sheathing have been plugged or covered
* The home has a Class-A-rated roof
* A spark arrestor has been installed
The replace ue is closed when the chimney is not in use
Gable, eave, so t, and foundation vents are covered with 1/16 to 1/8-inch corrosion resistant metal mesh screening
Foundation vents are ember and ame-resistant
* The house siding is non-combustible
All gaps greater than 1/8 inch are covered or plugged
There is at least 6 inches of separation between the ground and bottom of siding
* Dual paned, tempered glass windows have been installed
* Frames and screens are made of materials that do not melt
Windows and skylights are closed before leaving the house for extended periods of time
Pine needles and debris are cleared from decks regularly
Areas around and underneath decks are clear of combustible materials
* The deck is made of ignition resistant material
All of the outdoor furniture is made with non-combustible materials
Seat cushions, doormats, brooms, and other ammable items are removed or stored away before leaving the house for extended periods of time
All doors have intact weather stripping
All doors seal well
A battery back-up for the garage door opener motor has been installed
Windows and vents in the garage are treated the same way as if it was a part of the house
Combustible and ammable materials are stored away from any ignition source
All combustible materials have been removed, stored inside, or in a weather sealed storage space
* House number is of contrasting color, in view under a light source and/or on a post at the lane
All walkways/entrances to the house are clear for emergency crews
6) Start hardening your home – one step at a time
How do you complete a marathon? One step at a time. Best home hardening practices include replacing many of your home’s building materials with non-combustible alternatives like fiber cement, composition materials, and metal. It can be time-consum ing and costly to try to replace everything all at once, but experts recommend starting (literally) one sideboard at a time. The items below are lower-cost projects that you can potentially do yourself or with the help of a handy neighbor.
The following starred projects* may require a permit from the SROA Community Development department.
• Install noncombustible (aluminum, steel, NOT vinyl/plastic) 1/8” mesh on vents and underneath ground-level decks.
• Eliminate combustibles from the “Immediate Zone” (the first five feet around your house) – this includes replacing bark mulch with rock or gravel and pruning live shrubs close to the house.*
• Make sure your chimney has a spark arrestor. *
• Apply a fresh coat of paint or oil-based stain to your deck and siding.*
• Replace rotten siding and deck boards.
• Install noncombustible (metal) screens on windows.*
• Install metal flashings at corners and joints of roofs, walls or other places where embers could get caught. (Make sure to paint them to match the surface to which they are affixed in order to abide by the Design Committee Manual).
7) Save up for bigger home hardening projects
Think of the following as your “wish list” projects. Start setting money aside slowly and hire an expert. Starred projects* require following the Design Committee Manual and obtain a permit from the SROA Community Development Department.
• Install a Class A rated-roof.* - Class A fire-rated roofs have been required in Sunriver since 1994 - make sure that yours is in good condition. The roof is the most vulnerable component of your home during an ember shower, but a Class A roof has been tested to resist fire penetration through direct flame contact.
• Replace windows with tempered glass.* - Tempered glass is 3-4 times more resistant to heat and flames than laminated or annealed glass. You can tell if your windows are tempered by looking in the bottom corner for a number or letter T imprinted on the glass.
• Replace your deck with Class A building materials.* - No decking material has proven to be non-combustible. However, some materials have shown to burn significantly slower and with lower flame height than others. The following materials are less likely to spread a fire to the rest of your structure:
▪ fiber cement
▪ wood-plastic composite with incorporated fire retardant
▪ 2-in. thick redwood boards
▪ metal railings
• Install fiber cement siding.* - The sides and walls of your structure are vulnerable to embers getting stuck in cracks and trim boards. Fiber cement gives your siding the best chance of resisting ember ignition.
Monthly L adder Fuels Pickup Program set to begin!
Who: SROA Public Works Depar tment & SROA O wners only (contrac tors excluded)
What: Roadside pickup of ladder fuel materials or debris, including:
• branches, limbs or seedlings
• large shrubs or brush such as bitterbrush, manzanita, and juniper
• CANNOT collect grass clippings, pine needles or pinecones.
When: Material must be roadside by the 1st Monday of each month, April- Oc tober, weather and schedule permitting.
Where: All lanes in Sunriver are checked; there is no need to call for pickup!
How: Neatly stack material parallel to the road, where it will be collec ted by Public Works crews.
Why: To suppor t Sunriver owners in meeting community Ladder Fuels Reduc tion standards.
For more guidance: Scan code or visit: sunriverowners.org/lfrpickup
ALTERNATE DEBRIS DISPOSAL OPTIONS
Owners may bring grass clippings, pine needles, or other non-collectable material to the following locations for disposal. Fees may apply outside of the Firefree free yard debris disposal event dates.
Sunriver - Sunriver Compost Site 18305 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver 541-593-4197
Firefree days
May 2 & 3, Fri & Sat 8 AM - 4PM
Creating and maintaining defensible space in Sunriver is absolutely essential, according to Sunriver Fire Department
Deputy Chief Rod Bjorvik. “I have seen a lot of progress in wildfire preparedness in this community over the years, but there is a lot more work to be done. We have been good at dodging bullets but the wildfire threat to Sunriver is real, we need property owners to embrace that reality and do their part to make Sunriver more defensible,” said Bjorvik.
La Pine Southwest Transfer Station 54580 HWY 97, La Pine 541-408-7589
Firefree days May 16 - 24, Mon - Sat 8 AM - 4 PM
Bend - Knott Land ll 61050 SE 27th Street, Bend 541-317-3163
Firefree days May 2 - 11, 7 Days/week 7 AM - 4:30 PM
How do I find a contractor to perform LFR work?
• Owners or a contractor hired by an owner may perform all LFR activities noted on a permit. Owners are responsible for work performed on their property (including the actions of a contractor) and for ensuring work is completed in a professional manner and in accordance with the Sunriver Ladder Fuels Reduction Plan and Sunriver Rules & Regulations. SROA does not endorse any contractor and cannot make any recommendations or referrals. Owners are encouraged to practice due diligence when hiring a contractor.
• Identify possible contractors by soliciting recommendations from community members and checking with reputable business associations.
• Verify the status of all contractor licenses or registrations by searching on the Oregon Construction Contractor Board’s website at http://search.ccb.state.or.us or the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board’s website at https://lcb.us.thentiacloud.net/webs/lcb.
• Validate professional credentials with the awarding institution. For example, ISA Certified Arborist® credentials can be confirmed at www.treesaregood.org/ findanarborist.
• Communicate with potential contractors about the scope of your project and key deadlines by sharing a copy of your 2025 Forest Management LFR Permit. TIP: If noted on your permit, contact SROA to mark trees for removal and obtain an updated permit PRIOR to speaking with potential contractors.
• Request written bids or estimates from multiple contractors.
• Secure a contract that details the full scope of the work to be performed – including the removal of all debris generated by LFR activities, and that includes a completion date prior to the expiration date on the permit.
• Personally verify that all agreed upon work has been completed by the contractor (or ask a trusted third party to do so on your behalf) prior to requesting a re-inspection by the Natural Resources Department.
Sunriver Service District seeks board members
The Sunriver Service District (SSD) is seeking dedicated individuals to serve on its managing board.
This board provides oversight for both the Sunriver Police Department and Sunriver Fire Department, ensuring the safety and security of the Sunriver community.
About the SSD Managing Board:
• Composed of five members responsible for overseeing operations of Sunriver’s public safety departments.
• Operates under the authority of the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners.
• Guided by the district’s mission statement: “Protecting life and property, while fostering a sense of safety and security in our community.”
Board member commitments:
• Term length: 3 years (maximum of two consecutive terms).
• Regular board meetings: Held monthly on the third Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. at the public safety facility.
If you are passionate about public safety and community service, consider applying to serve on the Sunriver Service District Managing Board.
For information, visit www.sunriversdor.gov, email ssdadmin@sunriversd.org or call 541-585-1400.
NEWPRICE
Pianist celebrates 10 years
Pianist Hunter Noack is hard at work preparing a fresh program for the “In a Landscape” 10th anniversary tour of 50 concerts across six states in the American West.
This year offers the experience of music under the stars with two special “Dark Sky” concerts in Sunriver and Summer Lake, both designated Oregon Dark Sky Parks.
The tour also will be visiting 10 new locations, including The Sea Ranch and Bellosguardo in California, Golden Gardens Park and atop Crystal Mountain in the Seattle area, and at the newly reopened Kah-Nee-Ta resort in Central Oregon.
For tickets, visit www.ina landscape.org/events/ 2025 concert dates include:
California
• May 17 at Bellosguardo in Santa Barbara (Produced & ticketed by Bellosguardo)
• May 19 and 20 at Filoli Historic House & Garden in Woodside
• May 21 at the San Francisco Botanical Garden in San
Francisco
• May 23 & 24 at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen
• May 25 at Campovida in Hopland
• May 27 and 28 at The Sea Ranch in The Sea Ranch
Idaho
• June 23 at Warm Springs Preserve in Ketchum
• July at Schweitzer Mountain in Sandpoint
Montana
• June 27 at Story Mill Park in Bozeman
• June 29 at Sweathouse Creek in Victor
Oregon
• May 30 at Applegate Lake in Jacksonville
• June 1 at Kah-Nee-Ta in Warm Springs
• June 16, 17 & 18 at Black Butte Ranch in Sisters
• June 19 at Wine Down Ranch in Prineville
• June 21 at Alvord Desert in Princeton
• July 12 and 13 at Rose Garden Amphitheater in Portland
• Aug. 27 at Soter Vineyards
Get tickets for the 10th annual ‘In a Landscape’ music series before they sell out, including a Sunriver concert in September.
in Carlton
• Aug. 29 and 30 at Lesley
Miller Dunes Meadow Park in Gearhart
• Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 at Stoller Family Estate in Dayton
• Sept. 3 and 4 at Silver Falls State Park in Sublimity
• Sept. 6 and 7 at Shore Acres State Park in Coos Bay
• Sept. 9 at Rock Creek Recreation Site in Idleyld Park
• Sept. 10 at Mount Pisgah Arboretum in Eugene
• Sept. 13 at Fort Rock State Natural Area in Fort Rock
• Sept. 14 at Summer Lake
Hot Springs - Dark Skies in Paisley
• Sept. 15 at Sunriver - Dark Skies in Sunriver
• Sept. 17 at Drake Park in Bend
• Sept. 19 at Riverfront Park in Salem
• Sept. 21 at Lewis & Clark College in Portland
Washington
• May 10 at Maryhill Museum of Art in Goldendale
• July 16 and 17 at Orcas Island in Olga
• July 19 at Gas Works Park in Seattle
• July 20 in Golden Gardens Park in Seattle
• July 22 and 23 in Suncadia in Cle Elum
• July 25 at Crystal Mountain Resort in Crystal Mountain
Wyoming
• June 25 at Woodbury Preserve in Jackson
Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes newest members
The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed AmeriTitle, Dream Decks and Remodeling, Gompers Distillery, Lifescape Wellness, and Ramon Rentals as new members in February and March.
AmeriTitle
AmeriTitle has proudly served the Sunriver community for more than 30 years and has deep roots across the Central Oregon area.
AmeriTitle specializes in a wide range of services, including residential, commercial, farm and ranch, multi-family, condominium research, escrow closings and title insurance. Their long-standing presence gives them the expertise and local knowledge that enables them to confidently navigate the complexities of each transaction.
Whether you are looking to close on a single lot, purchase
a vacation rental, acquire a multi-acre ranch, or refinance your home, the team members at AmeriTitle are here to guide you through the process.
Their friendly office in The Village at Sunriver is perfectly located next to Sunriver Brewing, provides easy parking and is home away from home to its amazing team. Please stop by any time to meet their escrow professionals and learn more about what they do.
While their team is committed to providing exceptional service in all aspects of a real estate transaction, they also are actively engaged with every community they do business in.
They believe that exceptional service goes beyond real estate. From their own “Closing the Hunger Gap” food drive campaign, participating in warm clothing drives, to sponsoring the local softball team, their
involvement reflects their dedication to the well-being of the Sunriver area.
As a proud member of the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce, they are committed to helping foster a vibrant and supportive community.
Let AmeriTitle be your trusted partner in navigating your
For information, call 541593-1613 or visit www.
Dream Decks and Remodeling
Dream Decks and Remodeling was built on a lifelong passion for carpentry and more than 28 years of prior experience.
Originally from the Tigard area, owner and project manager John Teters has spent a lifetime framing, building, and working alongside some of Oregon’s finest carpenters and businesses alike. With nine years dedicated to deck build-
ing, remodeling, and repair in Central Oregon, John has devoted his professional career to developing and curating a best practice for carpentry and deck expansion in the High Desert. In his off time, you can find Teters alongside his wife, Wendy, working on their home in La Pine.
As avid outdoor lovers, you can often find the pair kayaking, hiking and camping across Central Oregon.
For more information, call 541-640-0343, email wendy@ dreamdecksremodeling.com or john@dreamdecksremodeling. com or visit www.dream decksremodeling.com.
Gompers Spirits
Gompers Distillery is a family-owned craft distillery and the home to the award winning Gompers Spirits. Gompers Distillery is Redmond’s first and only distillery. The distillery is named after co-founder Jessica Gompers’ grandfather, Herman Gompers. Herman, a Holocaust survivor from Holland was full of life and love, his greatest love being his family. He was the inspiration when Jessica and Michael founded Gompers Distillery in 2012, and he remains their inspiration to this day.
Gompers Speakeasy is open Friday and Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m., and it is also available for rental, events, private tastings and parties throughout
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Bin
New chamber members Dream Decks, left, and Gompers Spirits.
the week by appointment. We hope you can join us there for light bites, devotional cocktails and a unique Speakeasy which pays homage to the 1920s and our Gompers family.
In addition to the Speakeasy, Gompers Spirits are available throughout Oregon at OLCC liquor stores.
In Sunriver, Gompers Spirits are available in the liquor stores at the Sunriver Country Store and Sunriver Marketplace as well as Sunriver Brewing, South Bend Bistro, Marcello’s Cucina Italiana and Sunriver Resort, with more coming soon. This summer, they will have a booth at the Sunriver Saturday Market where you can sample Gompers Spirits and purchase bottles.
For info, call 541-588-2825 or visit gompersdistillery.com. The tasting room is located at 611 NE Jackpine Court in Redmond.
Lifescape Wellness
Longtime local Tammy Goen is excited to welcome new clients to Lifescape Wellness, an eclectic practice dedicated to helping you reclaim calm, balance, and joy in your life.
For decades, Goen has guided people in reducing stress, easing pain, and creating sustainable self-care practices, such as:
• Relieve tension or pain through therapeutic massage
• Restore energy flow with
gentle energy work
• Release emotional blocks using EFT/Tapping
• Recharge and reset through meditation and mindfulness
• Find clarity and purpose with life coaching
Goen’s unique, whole-person approach starts with calming the nervous system – because when our buckets are full and we’re in fight/flight/freeze mode 24-7, it’s hard to show up as our best selves.
As a highly sensitive person herself, Goen specializes in helping other sensitives navigate the world with greater ease, resilience, and self-empowerment – transforming sensitivity into a superpower.
Goen believes that solid, sustainable self-care practice is key to managing whatever life brings. She is always seeking new ways to expand her own practice and loves sharing these with her clients.
Her warm, inviting home studio just outside Sunriver provides a quiet, peaceful space for deep relaxation and transformation.
Goen is available by appointment only. Call or text 541815-8901 or email tammy@ coachtammygoen.com. She also provides free coaching consultation via Zoom. Learn more at https://coachtammy goen.com.
Ramona Rentals
Ramona Rentals LLC, a locally owned and veteran-operated vacation rental management company, offers a personalized and comprehensive
approach to vacation rental management in the heart of Central Oregon.
As native Oregonians, they possess an intimate understanding of the region’s unique allure and are passionately dedicated to crafting truly memorable experiences for every guest.
Specializing in short-term (STR) and mid-term (MTR) rentals, as well as a dedicated Home Watch service, Ramona Rentals LLC provides tailored solutions designed to maximize property potential and owner peace of mind.
Their commitment extends far beyond simply maximizing rental income; they prioritize the meticulous care of each property, treating it with the same attention and diligence they would their own.
This unwavering dedication ensures not only a consistent stream of revenue for homeowners but also exceptional, worry-free stays for guests.
Leveraging cutting-edge technology and implementing streamlined, efficient processes, Ramona Rentals LLC optimizes every facet of the rental experience.
This strategic focus on efficiency and scalability translates into seamless operations, enhanced communication, and ultimately, heightened satisfaction for both property owners and their valued guests.
Ramona Rentals LLC proudly manages a diverse and carefully curated portfolio of properties across Central Oregon’s most sought-after locations, including Brasada Ranch, Eagle Crest, Pronghorn, Bend, Tumalo, and Sunriver.
Their local expertise, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, positions them as a trusted and reliable partner for property owners seeking professional and attentive rental management.
To discover how Ramona Rentals LLC can elevate your property’s potential, please visit
www.ramonarentalsllc.com.
For a personalized, no-obligation STR/MTR revenue estimate, reach out to Ryan Ramona directly at ryan@ ramonarentalsllc.com or 503740-9064.
Join the chamber
For about $29 a month, you can promote your business through the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce. Share news about upcoming events and business news in the chamber’s newsletters and social media. Email exec@ sunriverchamber.com
Fan favorite author Craig Johnson returns to Sunriver in May
By Deon Stonehouse
April and May are going to be busy months with lots of fun events at Sunriver Books & Music in The Village at Sunriver.
Author Craig Johnson
Sunriver’s favorite author Craig Johnson returns Thursday, May 29 at 5 p.m. to present his latest in the Sheriff Walt Longmire series, “Return to Sender.” Johnson is a loyal friend to Sunriver Books, and we are grateful to him. Johnson is the star of our lineup and his presentations the high point of the year.
Pre-purchase a copy of “Return to Sender” from Sunriver Books by calling 541-5932525 for a ticket to attend this great event. Tickets mut be pre-purchased at Sunriver Books or by calling. There will be refreshments and drawings for prizes.
What happens when a mailperson goes missing on a 307mile route through the Red Desert of Wyoming? Sheriff
Walt Longmire is about to find out as he goes undercover to search for Blair McGowan, who vanished without a trace. She left on her route, her vehicle returned to the post office, but she was nowhere to be found. McGowan knew the area well, could she be lost? Or hurt? Or did someone abduct her? This is desolate country, no one for miles around, no witnesses, no CCTV cameras. Just hot, dry land where the snakes are not the most dangerous creatures.
A Novel Idea read Deschutes Public Library puts on a variety of programs every April for A Novel Idea. The library invests tremendous effort in selecting an interesting book for community wide reading, the month culminates with an author event for the chosen book. For the first time in more than 20 years, A Novel Idea features a mystery novel, “Murder by Degrees” by Ritu Muckerji.
• Tuesday, April 8, 4:30 p.m.: Sunriver Books is happy
to take part with a presentation on Mysteries, Mayhem & Mirth. Mystery is a diverse genre with a wide variety of subgenres from literary mysteries to historical mysteries to thrillers, cozies and more. Examples of genres and recommendations of books to read will be given.
The history of the mystery novel is also fascinating. Edgar Allan Poe, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins all wrote fascinating mysteries that are still in
print over a century after they were first published. I plan to give examples and recommendations of the Golden Age of mysteries and the Queens of Crime.
There will be refreshments and a bit of trivia for prizes. Hopefully you will have fun and discover new mysteries to read.
Space is limited. Register to attend this free event either at the Deschutes Public Library website https://dpl.libnet.info/ event/12877789 or emailing sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks. com
Author Marie Bostwick
• Saturday, April 19, 5 p.m.: Marie Bostwick presents “The Book Club for Troublesome Women.” There will be refreshments and drawings for prizes. Register to attend this free event by emailing sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks.
com. Bostwick has a lot of readers in Sunriver.
Women in the 1960s and 1970s made strides toward independence and self-determination. It was not an easy struggle. The societal norm anticipated women marry and have children. Where they lived was often determined by the husband’s job. If they worked, it was generally as secretaries, teachers or nurses. We’ve come a long way. It was hard won, and we should absolutely refuse to go back. Raising a family is an honorable career deserving to be respected as such. But a woman can also be a CEO of a Fortune 500 company, fly a fighter jet in combat, wear a police uniform and hunt a killer as a homicide detective, or ride a racehorse to victory. Today, we have options.
“The Book Club for Troublesome Women,” honors women in the 1960s who challenge the societal norms. Four women start small, with a book club (an excellent start), choosing “The Feminine Mystique” by Betty Freidan for the first discussion. Margaret Ryan, Charlotte Gustafson, Bitsy Cobb and Vivian Bushcetti all live in Concordia, a new subdivision with rules about landscaping and house colors located commuting distance from Washington, DC. Over the years, the book club members become good
Craig Johnson and Marie Bostwick will visit Sunriver this spring.
April Book Club discussion at Sunriver Books & Music
By Deon Stonehouse
Book Clubs are a great way for readers to get together and enjoy fun discussions of books. The Book Clubs meet on Mondays in person and via Zoom. Email sunriverbooks@ sunriverbooks.com to register to attend a discussion.
Mystery Book Club
Deschutes Public Library’s Novel Idea is a community-wide read offering lots of programs. For the first time the selection is a mystery, “Murder by Degrees” by Ritu Mukerji. The Mystery Book Club takes part with a discussion at 6 p.m. Monday, April 7 via Zoom, and 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 14 at the bookstore.
Fans of medical mysteries will love this story set in
1875 Philadelphia. Dr. Lydia Weston is both a professor at the Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania and a practicing physician seeing a wide variety of patients.
She forms a casual friendship with one of her patients, Anna Ward, encouraging the young woman to further her studies. Anna works in the home of a wealthy couple with two sons in order to send money to her sister who is caring for their disabled brother. It is not an easy life. Anna frequently attends the free lectures Dr. Weston presents, and the two generally chat a bit thereafter. At their last meeting Anna seemed troubled.
Dr. Weston shares her concerns with her mentor, who asks the police to check up
on the young woman. Before progress is made in those endeavors, Anna is pulled from the river, dead. Of course there is an autopsy with Dr. Weston taking part. Anna’s journal, recovered by the police, is filled with poetry that leads Dr. Weston to clues to what befell the young woman.
Fiction Book Club
The Fiction Book Club will discuss “Playground” by Richard Powers at 6 p.m. Monday, April 21 via Zoom and 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 28 at the bookstore.
Somehow, Powers is able to write the most unlikely books, blending science and nature into fascinating, wonderous stories. “Overstory” focused on trees while “Playground”
focuses on the ocean and an isolated island in the midst of French Polynesia.
friends, help each other in times of trouble, celebrate each other’s achievements, and read books that expand their worldview. From that first book club meeting, they read a variety of books, spend time in their local bookstore with the bookseller choosing well written books challenging them to lead fulfilling lives.
This is an empathetic examination of a changing era, filled with references to books and totally irresistible.
• Saturday, April 26, 5 p.m.: William Sullivan will give a slide show presentation, “Wildflower Hikes in Central Oregon & Beyond.” His new book, “50 Hikes: Central Oregon,”
has beautiful full color pictures, curated with the best hikes and things to do in Central Oregon, from Sunriver to Redmond, Bend to Sisters. This is a special book showing the best that our part of Oregon has to offer.
Whether you call Central Oregon home or just like spending time here visiting, there will be information of interest for you on great ways to spend precious time in the outdoors.
Sullivan takes gorgeous photographs of the most spectacular scenery in Oregon. The wildflower photographs are amazing, nature can sure put on a vibrant color display. His slide shows are always well attended, they will make you want to lace up your hiking books and hit the trail. There will be refreshments and draw-
ings for prizes. Space is limited, register to attend by emailing sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks. com to enjoy Sullivan’s fabulous photography and learn about the best hikes in our region, Central Oregon.
Sunriver Books & Music is in building 25 in The Village at Sunriver. Call 541-593-2525 or visit www.sunriverbooks. com for information.
In 1947, Evie Beaulieu’s father put his experimental diving apparatus on his young daughter and sent her to the bottom of a pool in Montreal. She fell in love with water, dedicated herself to discovering the wonders of the ocean. Rafi Young and Todd Keane become friends as schoolboys in Chicago. Ina Aroita grew up on Naval bases, following her father, a petty officer, around the Pacific. She marries Rafi, they make a home on Makatea Island, where she gardens and raises their family. Makatea Island was ravaged by compa-
nies mining for phosphorous. New threats are coming to what should be a small, quiet, peaceful island with 80 some souls living their lives, surrounded by the vast Pacific. But the world is not finished with Makatea, there is a new project looming. All of these threads come together.
Powers invites the reader to witness the wonders of the world in intimate ways. His books are pure magic. (OK, well he would probably call it science).
Sunriver Books & Music is in building 25 in The Village at Sunriver. Call 541-593-2525 or visit www.sunriverbooks. com for information.
April’s book club discussions are ‘Murder by Degrees’ and ‘Playground’ at Sunriver Books in The Village at Sunriver.
Authors continued from page 28
Spring prep helps mitigate summer’s fire risks
By Jim Bennett
It’s always hard to forecast ahead when stories are prepared a couple weeks before being printed, but at least on the calendar, we are into spring.
Last month, we began to dive into preparing our outdoors for the summer. We talked about cleaning out winter foliage debris such as leaves, pine needles, branches, diseased or dead plants and trees.
public safety classifieds
Likewise, the importance of moving wood piles, cleaning out house gutters and removing debris from our roofs. As you continue this month, be sure to keep dialed into SROA rules at www.sunriverowners.org/ departments/natural-resources.
Also, April marks the start of SROA’s monthly streetside yard debris pickup. For more information and proper steps for pickup, go to www. sunriverowners.org/lfr
This is when we begin to really get the taste of spring and get excited to get our patios set up and ready for hopefully, a long, beautiful and smoke free
Is patio furniture a fire risk?
The short answer is “yes” but there are work arounds. Certainly, those furniture items made completely out of steel or aluminum and do not have fabric pads on them are generally not combustible. However, everything from plastic and ratan furniture items and those with pads, covers and cushions are. Imagine during a fire event when the winds are blowing.
SSD monthly board meeting
Due to the monthly SSD board meeting occurring after the Scene went to press there are no board highlights for this month.
SSD board meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. The next SSD board meeting is April 17 and will be held in the conference room in the new police and fire facility.
Sunriver Police Log
While the fire may not be directly within our community, embers can travel long distances on an air current and once they land on something combustible they have the potential of igniting the object. However, many manufacturers offer products including furniture, covers, pads and more that are rated as resistant to fire. Do your homework before buying and look for those items that indicate they are fire resistant. Here’s another tip to cancel out those flying embers looking
2-1 Sunriver officers assigned to the CERT team responded to a CERT callout in Bend. Subsequently, several suspects were taken into custody. 2-17 Sunriver Police conducted a death investigation on Otter Lane.
2-20 A serious injury motor vehicle crash occurred on Cottonwood Road near milepost one. The driver of the vehicle was extricated from the vehicle by Sunriver Fire and flown by AirLink to St. Charles Medical Center for treatment.
2-21 Responded to a report of a diabetic locked in his room on Cedar Lane. The reporting party notified dispatch that he had been banging on the door for 15 minutes.
An officer kicked in the door after attempting to verbally contact him. He was assessed and determined he was not experiencing a medical emergency.
2-22 Took a report of found property on Beaver Drive.
2-23 An arrest was made on Jacinto Road for a female with an active warrant.
2-26 Responded to a single vehicle rollover on Spring River Road. It was reported that the driver of the vehicle crashed into a power pole and then fled on foot.
Upon arrival, Sunriver Police assisted with traffic control and the crash investigation. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Deputies located the suspect at an address on Stellar Drive where he was arrested for failing to perform duties of a driver and misdemeanor DWS.
It’s time to move those woodpiles away from structures.
Sunriver Service District provides unique public safety model
By Jill Stephens, Sunriver Police & Fire Foundation Director
Have you heard of the SSD and wondered what that acronym means?
Since Sunriver isn’t a city in the formal sense, we lack the city structure to manage traditional police and fire departments, and Sunriver has long been committed to having its own public safety services. The solution? Sunriver Service District (SSD) operates its public safety departments under a distinct structure, the only one of its kind in Oregon. Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation met with the SSD’s Board of Directors chair Jim Fister to learn how this unique public agency works.
What is the SSD and how does it work?
“Unlike La Pine Fire or Deschutes County Sheriff department officials who are elected by voters to their roles, Sunriver’s SSD board is appointed by and operates as a part of Deschutes County government. Our board of directors is made up of five at-large residents of Sunriver who are nominated and approved by the county’s three commissioners. Although we have considerable autonomy, we do report to the county and commissioners,” Fister said.
As he described it, the SSD board’s primary responsibilities are to establish strategic goals, develop and spend within short- and long-term budgets, and to hire and manage qualified personnel, specifically the
fire chief, police chief and district administrator. “It’s a humbling honor to be among those trusted by Sunriver citizens to represent them in matters of public safety,” Fister stated.
As a formal public agency, SSD regular board meetings must meet all regulations. Fister emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, “Our goal is to be as open as possible. All votes and deliberations must happen in public.” The board also strives to involve Sunriver residents in the decision-making process, with regular updates and opportunities for public input.
Careful with each taxpayer dollar
The top priority for the board is ensuring that taxpayer money is spent efficiently. Property taxes collected by Deschutes County within the Sunriver boundaries fund the district.
“The primary tax rate assigned for SSD use is $3.45 per $1,000 of a home’s assessed value. Sunriver voters approved an additional $0.47 per $1,000 for the 10-year building levy that helps fund the new public safety facility. This is not district money, it’s taxpayer money,” Fister emphasized, underscoring the board’s obligation to use funds wisely.
For the construction of the Sunriver public safety building. Fister detailed how the district managed to keep the project within its $18 million budget.
The board worked closely with the fire and police departments during the planning
phase to ensure that resources were allocated efficiently.
“We had to make some tough decisions and prioritize what was most needed,” Fister reflected. “Because building funds were invested during construction, accrued interest allowed the district to cover any minor budget overages. With careful management, this major safety project was completed both on time and within the budget.”
Looking to the future of the service district
As the district plans for future needs, such as new fire engines, ambulances and maintenance for the new building, the board
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Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation board members, left to right: Dee Henderson, Stacey Dewald, Robert Foster, Ron Schmid, Mary Fister, Jill Stephens and Dennis Dishaw, president
2025 Sunriver theater season in full swing
By Megan Steffens
The Sunriver Stars Community Theaters kicked off its 2025 season with the announcement of the winners of the 2025 Children’s Playwright Contest.
The three winning original scripts and directors are:
• “Meltdown” by George Hoover and Kieran
Kristy-Thompson
• “The Drawer” by Delaney Boudreau and Rowan Kristy-Thompson
• “The Secrets of the Hidden Book” by Morgan Steffens
You can see these playwrights come to life on stage at “The Shining Stars Showcase” on June 21 at The Door Sunriver.
“The Man who shot Liberty Valance”
The Sunriver Stars Community Theater presents “The Man who shot Liberty Valance” directed by Antony Sparrow. “Those in our community who watched the movie version starring John Wayne and James Stewart ‘back in the day’ will enjoy a trip down memory lane and our younger audience will enjoy the introduction to old time westerns and the ongoing fight between good and evil,”
Victoria Kristy, Sunriver Stars creative director, said. “We are excited to see and enjoy the insight and creativity director Antony Sparrow brings to the show.”
The show opens April 25-27 at The Door Sunriver and May 2-3 at Legend Cider Company in La Pine. For tickets, visit sunriverstars.org.
Upcoming auditions
Don’t miss auditioning for “Gilligan’s Island the Musical” at 6 p.m. on March 31 at 56385
Venture Lane, room 208, in the Sunriver Business Park.
Rehearsals will take place
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings April through May. Shows will be June 5-7 at The Door Sunriver.
Informationcan be found at sunriverstars.org or email info@ sunriverstars.org.
Late March winter storm brings snow dump
By Susan Berger, Scene Staff Spring was soooo close we could taste it. Winter snow was melting away, and the days had already grown longer. But… Mother Nature had other plans. With the official start of spring just days away a March 16 storm brought the largest single snow dump of the season to Sunriver – with some areas at around 20 inches.
Winter had already arrived much earlier than usual this season. Mt. Bachelor was able to open in November and Sunriver received 22 inches in December. January was dry and then February brought another 19 inches of snow. Sunriver’s seasonal average total snowfall is around 60 inches.
The storm brought wet, heavy snow. This combination
is rough on trees as it weighs down branches and treetops – making them vulnerable to breakage.
If you have damaged trees you can contact a tree removal service for cleanup. You do not need a permit from SROA to remove a completely downed (flat on the ground) tree or fall-
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Foundation
is aware of growth challenges.
“Sunriver is almost entirely built out. Unlike Deschutes County which has projected its annual property tax growth at around 6%, Sunriver’s tax growth estimate is just 3.5% and cost-of-living expenses take up much of that. There’s not a lot of leeway for increasing revenue,” Fister explained.
Fister noted the board is currently seeking new members to fill upcoming vacancies. “We’re always looking for people who want to get involved and serve the community,” he said, encouraging interested residents to apply.
The nominating committee is now accepting applications for at least two open positions, and Fister emphasized that serving on the board is an important way for Sunriver residents to contribute to the district’s ongoing success.
Interested property owners or voters within the SROA boundary may fill out the online application on the SSD website, www.sunriversdor.gov.
How Sunriver Police & Fire Foundation fills the gap
Dennis Dishaw is the Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation’s founder and president and a former SSD board member.
He created the foundation to fill an important unmet need for our public safety personnel and the community. Public agencies such as police and fire cannot take direct donations from businesses or individuals, which is where nonprofit orga-
nizations such as the foundation can help.
Begun just over two years ago, Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation has brought together support from businesses, community organizations and volunteers to fund important programs and classes.
Their sponsorships and contributions have made possible the Women’s Safety Class, Faith and Blue, Days at the Range, and Family Dynamics for First Responders seminar, among others. These provide valuable opportunities for the community and firefightes/police teams to work and learn together.
Looking for ways you can contribute?
Your support is needed. Please contact the foundation at admin@srpolicefirefoundation. org to learn more about becoming a director or a volunteer or call Dishaw at 818-612-0913.
Last Wednesday of the month through May
Cork & Barrel hosting spring Winemaker Dinner at Caldera Springs
Cork & Barrel is best known for three days of food and wine events the third weekend in July in Bend. But you can join in the fun early with Winemaker Dinners happening this spring.
On April 15 at 6 p.m., Cork & Barrel hosts a Winemaker Dinner with the Willamette Valley’s PROJECT M Wines at The Lakehouse at Caldera Springs, featuring a decadent multi-course dinner with wine pairings.
This year’s Cork & Barrel features wineries from the Willamette Valley and Co -
lumbia Gorge wine regions. Chef de Cuisine Krista Matheis will present a culinary journey through the Pacific Northwest with locally sourced ingredients. The Lake House offers casual lakeside dining with majestic views of Mt. Bachelor.
PROJECT M is a renowned Willamette Valley winery. Owners Meg and Jerry Murray, the two “Ms” of PROJECT M, pull from more than 30 years of collective wine industry experience to craft elegant wines from distinctive sites. The Murrays live to fill their customers’ glasses
the tub. Bottomline, conduct a thorough inspection, or have a qualified expert check your hot tub each month.
dinner.
with “an experience of beauty.”
Jerry Murray, who is also the head winemaker for PROJECT M, will be on hand to introduce each pairing and offer insight into his winery’s philosophy and methods.
Tickets are on sale now for $150/person. Seating is limited. Get tickets to this Winemaker Dinner and other Cork & Barrel events at corkandbarrel.org.
Proceeds benefit KIDS Center, the Central Oregon nonprofit working to end child abuse.
for the right place to land and ignite.
It can be easy to let spring and summer forest debris pile up in corners such as under our patio furniture, within a stack of furniture, behind patio items, the corners of outdoor walls and more.
Do a weekly property inspection and clean out those seemingly small piles of debris that create the perfect nest for the embers.
Check the mechanics of your hot tubs. Over the years, we’ve seen plenty of deck fires, sometimes spreading onto the house structure, that occurred because of a hot tub pump overheating, faulty wires or mechanical problems.
While it might be full of water, the underside of an elevated tub many times is a rat’s nest of wires and mechanics.
The rat’s nest concept should be taken literally as rodents and small animals can find the underside of the hot tub the perfect place to set up home and collect debris that could be very flammable if heat gets introduced from faulty parts on
Throughout the summer you will hear countless messages about barbecues and outdoor fireplaces, fire pits or containers. This is done simply because there seems to be an unending cavalcade of violations that put our community at risk.
Barbecues must be propane, natural gas or pellets only. No
wood or charcoal barbecues are allowed. The reasons are obvious but imagine the dynamics if these were allowed.
Wooden decks, tinder dry forest floor, hot ashes, wind, the barbecue that falls off the deck and so much more.
No open flame is allowed so outdoor fire features that have the exposed flame are prohibited as well as those that use wood or charcoal.
P.S. Don’t forget to clean out
those grease and debris traps on barbecues so that liquids or other potentially flammable pieces of debris do not fall out.
It’s also a great idea to place a barbecue on a surface that is not flammable.
If you have a wood deck you
can get a steel tray that sits under the barbecue to catch any spills or debris.
Have fun with the start-up month of April, and if there is a topic you’d like us to cover in future stories, please email me at jimb@sunriversdor.gov.
PROJECT M is the winery at The Lake House’s wine
Dust off your cowboy boots for the Three Rivers ‘Cowboy Chic’ auction
The countdown has begun for the most anticipated community fundraiser of the year.
On Saturday, April 19, the Three Rivers School PTA will host its annual “Cowboy Chic” auction at SHARC in Sunriver, promising an evening of western elegance and generous community spirit.
“This is more than just a fundraiser. It’s our chance to come together as neighbors and make a real difference for our students,” Marney Wolfe, auction committee chair, said. “The response from local businesses and families has been overwhelming, and we’ve secured some truly exceptional auction items that will have everyone excited to raise their paddles.”
Three Rivers PTA hosts fundraising event
When: Saturday, April 19
Where: Benham Hall at SHARC
Event includes : Dinner, silent and live auctions, music and dancing
Note: Guests must be 21 years and older
Tickets: Go on sale on April 1 with additional details to be announced.
Donations being accepted:
Contact Marney Wolfe at 503-9758104 to make a donation or for additional information.
The event, which serves as the PTA’s primary fundraiser of the year, features a full dinner prepared by Marcello’s “with a country flair,” complemented by a bar hosted by Whiskey River.
Guests will enjoy live music, a DJ, and even line dancing lessons provided by Sunriver Dance Studio.
Beyond the auctions, at -
If you’re thinking of remodeling and not sure where to start, now is a great time to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Neil Kelly designer. We’ll discuss your inspiration, vision, and goals for your project, answer all your questions, share ideas, and discuss schedule and budget ranges. Whether you’re in the early planning stage or ready to remodel, this is a great way to get started!
To schedule and learn
or call
tendees can try their hand at roping a wooden bull or visit the custom trucker hat station for a personalized souvenir of the evening.
“We’ve created an experience that’s both sophisticated and playful,” Tiffany Benaway, PTA president, said. “Where else can you enjoy gourmet food, bid on amazing vacation packages, and learn to line dance all in one night? It’s the perfect way to support our school while having a genuinely good time.”
Tickets are $50 per person, with the option to purchase an entire table seating eight for $350.
For parents wondering about childcare, on-site services will be available for $15 per child with advance reservation through trsparentsclub@gmail.com.
The PTA has coordinated with Sunriver Towncar to provide transportation home for guests who need it.
“Every detail has been considered to make this a carefree evening for our supporters,” Wolfe said. “From the moment you arrive in your cowboy boots to the safe ride home, we want everyone to relax and enjoy this celebration of our school community.”
Tickets can be purchased by scanning the QR code on event posters around Sunriver or through Venmo @ThreeRivers-PTA (with notation that payment is for the auction).
Don’t miss this opportunity to don your western best and support the educational enrichment of K-8 students at what promises to be the social highlight of the spring season.
Sunrover Dog Daycare fulfills lifelong dream for dog lover
By Andrea Hine
Sitting with her mother at Sunriver Brewing Co. more than 10 years ago, Jeanette Moore saw a dog lying outside on a coat that had been placed on top of the snow.
“I’d always dreamed of owning a dog daycare business,” Moore said. “And that sight inspired me to start looking for a place, even though land didn’t open up until a decade later.”
So began the saga of Sunrover Dog Daycare, a 3,200-squarefoot facility located in the Sunriver Business Park, a place “dedicated to making your pup’s stay a tail-wagging good time – we’re your pet’s home away from home.”
Moore always had and loved dogs while growing up. “When confessing my dream to my now-husband Dustin on our first date, he laughed, as he shared the goal of being around dogs but had been thinking of moving to Alaska and creating a sanctuary,” she said.
Sunriver won out.
Already familiar with the area, Moore’s family had a house in Sunriver for 35 years. “We rented out for 20 of those years as ‘pet friendly’ which entailed replacing carpets, cleaning up urine, and other issues such as liability – even with well-behaved animals.”
Moore realized someone always had to stay behind in the rental with the pet and missed out while others were enjoying themselves.
“That didn’t seem fair to either the visitors or their pets,” she said. “So, I researched what guests were looking for by actually sitting in the Village
and talking to people and the consensus was: ‘I want our dog to be as tired as I am after a day of skiing or hiking so we can relax together.’”
The needs of locals in Sunriver and La Pine were pivotal in setting up the business as there wasn’t a place that was close by for either daycare or boarding and there are usually long wait lists for places in Bend and Redmond.
She added the hardest part was finding a suitable location as no existing building would have worked. “When 2.8 acres of land that matched our criteria became available in 2022,
Dustin and I, who were living in Seattle at the time, asked ourselves, ‘Do we make the leap? We leapt.’”
The stars aligned as this was what they had been waiting and saving for and were able to design everything themselves.
Sunrover Dog Daycare, “designed with your pup’s comfort and safety in mind,” offers three sectioned-off indoor play areas, one outdoor play area and six kennels for solo boarding when your pup needs a little extra peace and quiet.
With a capacity to house up to 40 dogs at a time, add-on services even include cuddle
time and a “barkcuterie board” with fancy snacks for your furry foodie.
“Dustin’s expertise in business and technology balances my grandiose ideas,” Moore said. “We work quite well together and will grow Sunrover based on what the community needs.”
Options the couple are considering include expanding accommodations for long-term stays, adding more kennels and play areas, and designing space
for food trucks. The ultimate goal is to have a fenced-in beer garden so owners can hang out with their dogs and watch them play.
“Dustin and I are so thankful to the Sunriver community’s patience while waiting for us to open with roadblocks ranging from permit and approval delays to winter weather that slowed construction, and the discovery of unexpected rock formations beneath the property and for its outpouring of enthusiasm and support: ‘We’re so glad you’re finally here!’ ” Moore said they are seeing the same dogs and people return every week. “It feels so good and validates our dream of building a home for dogs to play, thrive and be loved. To every customer who believed in us, to every dog who wags its tail through the doors, and to the Sunriver community for embracing this vision – thank you.”
For information about Sunrover Dog Daycare, visit sunroverdogdaycare.com, email info@sunroverdogdaycare.com or call 541-209-0053.
Sunrover Dog Daycare, located in the Sunriver Business Park, provides a place for dogs “to play, thrive and be loved.”
Sunrover’s owner Jeanette Moore is shown with her dog, Rover.
From the outdoors to the studio at Nancy McGrath Green Gallery
Oregon is celebrated for its vibrant outdoor culture, so it makes sense that we have our own Plein Air painting group.
Plein Air Painters of Oregon, or PAPO, as it’s known, is an active group of painters preferring to paint directly from nature in the great outdoors. After all, “en plein air,” directly translated from French means, “in the open air.”
PAPO has member artists throughout the state who meet up in the warmer months to
paint together in different scenic locations. Mediums used are as variable as the weather, with individuals choosing to paint with pastels, watercolor, acrylic, oil and even digitally on tablets.
Subject matter includes everything from dramatic canyons and waterfalls to quiet forestscenes, fields of vibrant wildflowers and busy city scenes.
You are invited to view work from PAPO artists at the Nancy McGrath Green Gallery from April 1 to June 29.
Artists will be showcasing traditional plein air work, as well as studio pieces based on studies created in plein air. Artists will be in the gallery for a reception with refreshments on Sunday, April 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The gallery is at the Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18319 Cottonwood Road.
Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 2 to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Snow
continued from page 32
en branches on your property. If it’s leaning or hung up on other trees or structures, contact SROA at 541-593-1522 or email naturalresources@ srowners.org
Non-resident owners are reminded, that if they have not visited their home recently, to check for storm damages or arrange for someone to check on their home for them.
Areas to check include:
• Roof for damage by trees or broken limbs
• Ice dams or water leaks (water pipes/water flow from melting snow or frozen pipes)
• Check for snow blockage of natural gas vents and fireplace flues
• Ensure there is access to your home in the event of an emergency
• Contact your insurance company if you feel there has been damage to your home.
‘Balancing Rock,’ oil by Joren Traveler
PHOTO BY SUSAN BERGER
These trees fell onto the garage of a Sunriver home during the March 16 snowfall.
By Lee Haroun
“One Profits Most Who Serves Best” has been Rotary International’s motto since 1911. It was approved during the second Rotary convention held in Portland, Oregon.
More than 100 years later, local Rotarians still strive to best serve their community.
The Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club’s annual fundraiser on Sunday, June 1 plays a major role in the club’s ability to serve and support local nonprofits and individuals, such as La Pine High School graduates who receive scholarships to continue their education.
In addition to a delicious Italian-themed dinner and fun activities, this event features silent and live auctions.
Bonnie Junell has been teaching others her realistic impressionist style using water-soluble oil paints for 10 years.
Easier and more forgivable than traditional oil paint, Junell loves to share her techniques with others.
Junell’s Sip & Paint classes, held at Artists’ Gallery Sunriver, combines the best of both worlds – art mixed with wine and tastes of chocolate.
“My goal is for those attending the classes is to have fun and learn the skills to become a painter,” she said.
Painting is a great way to release tension and show your creative side. If you are looking for a entertaining way to celebrate a special occasion or create an event, Sip & Paint has you covered. Mixing painting, friends and drinks can create a memorable evening.
No art experience is needed, and all painting supplies are
All money raised goes directly to grants and scholarships. Recent grant recipients include CASA, Habitat for Humanity, La Pine Community Kitchen, Rising Stars Preschool, St. Vincent de Paul, and the Sunriver Music Festival.
Please consider donating auction items.
Especially popular are getaways and experiences such as stays at private vacation homes and timeshares; fishing and rafting trips; and ski and golf packages.
Popular food items include restaurant gift cards, meals in private homes prepared for groups of friends, and wine and food gift baskets.
Art and crafts are other good donations for the silent auction.
Passport to Italy Event
When: 5 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, June 1
Where: Sunriver Resort’s Great Hall
Cost: $125 per person
Tickets: Purchase tickets at www.sunriver-lapinerotary.org, from a Rotary Club member or at First Interstate Bank in The Village at Sunriver
Make a donation: If you would like to donate an auction item, please stop by First Interstate Bank. All donations will be accepted. We are looking for gift baskets of food and wine; baskets with a theme such as cooking, reading, hiking and more; large items including bikes, kayaks, ski equipment and more.
Businesses are invited to donate an item or two from their business.
It’s great public relations and shows a business’ support for the community.
Donated items can be dropped off at First Interstate
Bank in Sunriver where you will receive a receipt for a tax deduction.
If you have questions, please contact bank manager Aaron Schofield at aaron.schofield@ fib.com or 541-330-7571 or event chair Kristine Thomas at exec@sunriverchamber.com.
Businesses or individuals who are interested in being an event sponsor and/or wish to purchase a table for eight people can find information on the club’s website www.sunriv er-lapinerotary.org. included.
The cost for the two-hour class is $50.
Complimentary wine/beverages and chocolates will be served.
Upcoming classes will be held on the following dates:
• April 17, 5:30 p.m. Rustic barn with flowers
• June 5, 5:30 p.m. Aspen trees
• July 8, 4 p.m. Poppies
• Aug. 7, 4 p.m. Funny bunny For information and to register, visit artistsgallerysunriver.com and click on classes.
Celebrate Easter during services at Sunriver Christian Fellowship
Sunriver Christian Fellowship will celebrate Easter with several services beginning with Palm Sunday at 10 a.m. April 13.
Maundy Thursday will include a Soup Supper beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a special service.
Good Friday will be a Tennebrae service at 7 p.m. focusing on the last seven words of Jesus. All are welcome at our services.
The Bells of Sunriver and
the SCF vocal choir will provide uplifting music on Easter morning, April 20.
Rev. Kally Elliott will be preaching on the theme “Everything in Between: Grief and Hope.”
She brings a youthful energy to the pulpit and will surely leave everyone with something to think about.
Music is a big part of worship at SCF.
The Bells of Sunriver full ensemble plays once a month and
a smaller bell ensembles also provides music each month.
In addition, the vocal choir, under the direction of interim director Kathy Thompson, sings once or twice a month. Special music is occasionally performed.
The bells and vocal choir are always seeking new members to round out their sound.
Bell ringing and singing both require being able to read music at some level.
Playing bells is a fun, chal-
lenging activity that stimulates the brain.
All musical activity is a wonderful way to fire up your neurons and keep you learning.
If you think bell ringing is something you could be interested in, come to a rehearsal and see what it is all about.
The bell choir rehearses upstairs at SCF on Mondays from 12:30-2 p.m.
The vocal choir practices on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
You do not need to be a member of SCF to participate in bells or vocal choir, but it is appreciated if you stay for the entire service on days you participate in music.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship is located at 18139 Cottonwood Road across from the Marketplace store. Services are at 10 a.m. every Sunday. For more information go to sunriverchristianfellowship. org.
SCENE OPINION POLICY
Central
To support a free and open exchange of information and ideas, the Sunriver Scene welcomes letters to the editor up to 250 words, and Chorus of One submission up to 400 words on a top of relevance to Sunriver. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessary respresent the Sunriver Owners Association.
To submit: Email susanb@srowners.org. Submit letter in the body of the email or attach it as a Word document.
Deadline: The 12th of each month.
Oregon’s Oldest Family Owned Roofing Company
Mary Ellen “Polly” Perkins passed away quietly Sunday March 2, 2025 at the impressive age of 107 – she was the second oldest person in Deschutes County.
Born Mary Ellen Nyden in July 1917 – just months before the end of World War I – she was raised in the historic Sellwood neighborhood of Portland, Oregon. A true Oregonian, her great-grandmother arrived by wagon train in the mid-1800s, a journey documented in a diary later published by Polly’s mother, Evangeline.
While in grade school in Sellwood, Mary Ellen and some of her girlfriends decided they wanted different names (in her case, because she was tired of people mistakenly calling her Mary instead of Mary Ellen!). Thus she became Polly, a name that stuck with her for the rest of her very long life.
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After graduating from Washington High School Polly worked as a secretary for an insurance company, making use of her shorthand and typing skills (for those under 60, shorthand was once an essential job skill!). On a girls’ weekend to Seaside, she met a very tall, handsome man named Howard Perkins whom she would eventually marry on March 5, 1941. Polly and Howard remained married for 60 years, and together they raised two sons, John (1945) and Tim (1949). The family lived in Milwaukie, Oregon while the boys grew up. Howard and Polly then moved to Los Angeles, where they spent 20 years before retiring in Sunriver in the mid1980s, where Howard died in 2001, just days after their 60th anniversary.
Polly continued to live in the same house until she was 104, dodging COVID, devouring books, tending to the yard and shoveling snow off her driveway, travelling abroad with family until she was 99 (her last trip was to Iceland!), and driving until she was 104 – a highlight was renewing her driver’s license at 101, particularly for the woman working at the DMV that day who uttered an expletive when she noticed her date of birth. And the auto insurance company had to change the date of her birth because their system couldn’t handle ages requiring 3 digits.
Spending time with Polly was like being in a modern history sketch. Things would bubble to the surface with wonderful randomness:
–She would recall how during the Great Depression milkshakes only cost a nickel, but nobody had a nickel to spare. She talked about how people took care of each
We accept one letter per month per person.
other, and how girls only had one dress or two at the most, and no one thought anything of it.
–She would remember the adventure of car travel growing up, with her father needing to patch a tire nearly every 20 miles.
–She remembered the excitement – and uncertainty – surrounding the first talkie: people were afraid of the sound coming out of the screen.
–There was the time she got stuck overnight on Mount Hood as a young woman and had to be rescued – which made the front page of the Oregonian and earned her an angry letter from the Search and Rescue leader.
– Of World War II, she would tell you about finding herself busy hosting Russian generals who were in Portland for business as part of the Lend-Lease program.
–As for phones? She had a friend who worked at the local phone company, who whispered to her that soon people were going to have their very own private lines!
– A century (19 Presidents!) filled with wonder, wisdom, and resilience – truly a life well-lived.
Polly leaves behind five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom miss her pleasant manner, their shared love of chocolate, and her cheeky sense of humor.
A memorial service will be held in May. Donations can be made in her name to Habitat for Humanity of Sunriver/La Pine and Council on Aging Meals on Wheels program (which provided her with such excellent care during COVID).
CCB# 224186
Polly laughs in this Scene file photo when she turned 100.
LOLO TREE WORKS
Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Fire Fuel Reduction, & Emergency Tree Services. ISA-Certified Arborist
K2 Business Services, LLC has been cleaning inside Sunriver and the outlying areas since 1989. We specialize in cleaning of residential private homes for year-round residents and in privately owned family vacation homes that are used by family and extended family. Licensed and insured. Email KKBendOregon@yahoo.com or text/call Kathy at 541-419-9248
SNOW REMOVAL
Driveway snow plowing and snow blowing. No contracts; on call work only. General contracting, licensed, bonded, insured since 1992. CCB# 97643, Tubs Alive, Inc. 541-593-5163
CARING HOMES OF BEND
SIMPLY THE BEST since 2006
CARING HOMES OF BEND offers full senior care in a beautiful private home. Lauren Dovolis Lauren@caringhomesofbend.com www.caringhomesofbend.com
619-988-2373
TURNER
ARE YOU HAVING INTERNET PROBLEMS?
Need help with TVs, Audio, Internet and Smart Devices? Loud & Clear
A/V Systems has 20+ years of experience. 541-241-6262
CCB#231436
DEPENDABLE 5 STAR
QUALITY VACATION
RENTAL CLEANING
Specializing in owner-operated vacation rentals. I will be your eyes and ears for everything your rental needs. Convenient monthly invoicing. I have excellent references, long-time employees, quality products too. www.vacationrentalcleans.com
Donna James 541-410-1770
Girl Friday Cleaning
JILL OF ALL TRADES HOUSE CLEANING
We clean private and rental homes. Also vacation and RVs in Sunriver and La Pine area. We’re celebrating our 39th year! Better business accredited and insured. 541-815-1701
NEED DECK WORK?
Deck refinishing, Deck rebuilding, Enclosures, General contracting, licensed, bonded, insured since 1992 Tubs Alive, Inc. CCB #97643, 541-593-5163
PAINT, STAIN & PRESSURE WASH
10% off Interior paint or stain if you mention this ad. Call Earth & Sky Construction and Paint today 541-815-7469
SR BLIND GUY
Bend Window Works is offering a 10% off move in special for Sunriver area homeowners. Mention this ad to receive a 10% discount on new window coverings. FREE in home consultation always included. We also offer same day in home repair services. No waiting weeks for them to get done. New and repaired blinds help rental homes rent faster! BendWindowWorks.com.
541-593-8372
PET SITTING
In your home while you are away, or will walk/feed daily, etc. For information, call Bonnie Rogers at 541-419-4647
Sunriver references available.
NEED A RELIABLE PERSON FOR:
• Security home checks
• Take care of mail and plants
• Sewing projects
Serving the Sunriver area for over 45 years. Call me, Grace Phillips. It’s a matter of trust!
541-788-0199
REMODEL & ADDITIONS
Decks, windows, tile, miscellaneous carpentry and roof repair.
Honest, reliable small remodeling contractor. 40 years experience. Call Will at 503-309-0790 Many references available. Licensed/Bonded/Insured.
ccb#76152
CLEANING BY HEIDI
Hi there! I am taking on more Houses, Rentals, and Office buildings for cleaning in the Sunriver area. I’ve been cleaning for 8 years and I gave great references. I am licensed and insured. Please call or text
We will take the worry out of your life knowing your home is secure while you are away. We offer freeze checks and security checks. We can stock your fridge and cupboards before you arrive. We also take care of maintenance should the need arise and snow removal, housekeeping services are available. We have been serving Sunriver for over 30 years! With us you won't have many people traipsing through your home. We offer the extra personal experience. We can take care of all the Misc care your home needs. Licensed and bonded. (541) 728-1034
TUBS ALIVE
Hot tub, deck repair and refinishing, sales, installation, inspections and maintenance in Sunriver since1992! 541-593-5163
www.tubsalive.com
License #97643, bonded, insured.
TUBS
PROJECT ORGANIZATION
In business in SR since 1989, offering professional organizing for pantries, closets, garages and more. Licensed and insured. $45/hr with a 4 hour minimum. Call Kathy at 541-419-9248
New client slots recently came available. Residential and Commercial. Bonded and Insured. Call for a free onsite estimate. M. K. Haines Services 541-977-3051
HOME RESTORATION & UPGRADES
Kitchen, bath and living space. Custom railings, gates and metalwork. Affordable, custom craftsmanship. Call Ken Olson Building and Design, LLC. Licensed/Insured CCB #205419 541-213-8861
PROFESSIONAL HOT TUB CLEANING
Individual dump, scrub, fill & balance for $150. Recurring maintenance plans start at $75/month and include regularly refilling the spa. Call Better Spa Services at 541-678-1335
While Central Oregon is known for its landscape beauty and wealth, many families quietly struggle with food insecurity. NeighborImpact has been a vital resource for 40 years, providing food through pantries, mobile markets, and meal sites. But with demand at an alltime high, they need our help.
Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty real estate advisors are stepping up with a food drive.
How You Can Help Too:
• Pick up a reusable grocery tote from our office or contact one of our Sunriver real estate advisors.
• Fill it with non-perishable food items.
• Return it filled, and we’ll deliver your donation to NeighborImpact.
A small act can make a big impact. Please join us in giving back!
