SROA NEWS – It seems inevitable that with summer comes a season of wildfire smoke.
Over the years, as smoke from wildfire incidents have increased, regulations have been put in place for the protection of outdoor workers and guidelines for the public to alleviate smoke-related exposure risks. Air quality monitors have popped up everywhere – from schools and recreation facilities to personal homes and businesses.
Businesses with outdoor workers are now responsible for the health of their workers by providing the option to work indoors (so long as indoor air quality is acceptable) or modify work schedules until conditions improve.
Both SHARC and SROA’s Member Pool rely heavily on high-school aged lifeguards. Any school-aged youth, or those with underlying health conditions, fall under the “unhealthy” air quality threshold of 151 or higher (same as last year). This follows the Oregon School Activity Association guidelines to be consistent with outdoor sport activities on the basis that youth lifeguards must be outside to do their job. Extended smoke exposure at those levels can have detrimental health effects.
Employees in other SROA departments and facilities will follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines and continue to work outdoors until air quality measurements reach 201 or higher (very unhealthy).
“Some of our employees can work inside and have more flexibility in how they address their work schedules related to smoke – our lifeguards do not,” said SROA General Manager James Lewis.
A new IQAir monitor is being installed at SHARC. As a centralized location, this will be the air quality gauge utilized for all SROA-managed facilities. Once installed, the monitor will be available for viewing on the weather page of the SROA website (www.sunriverowners.org).
SROA NEWS – Five candidates are vying for three seats on the SROA Board of Directors in this summer’s upcoming election.
Don’t miss a chance to meet the candidates during a virtual forum at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Presented by Sunriver You, registration is required to receive the Zoom link. Visit www. sunriveryou.com and click on “Classes” from the main menu.
Forum attendees will get to know each candidate and learn about their priorities regarding Sunriver to make an
Linda Beard
We purchased our home in March 2020 and live here full-time. I've been coming to Sunriver since June of 1970.
I managed a wine grape vineyard in the Napa Valley with my father for 34 years. I worked in and managed our family insurance agency for 40 years.
I am also a registered dietitian and nutritionist specializing in cardiac and endocrine patients.
My passion is gardening, cooking, skiing and, of course, our dogs (Maddie and Moose). I used to water ski competitively in my teens and 20s and, when I wasn’t water skiing, I snow ski. I've also
SROA NEWS – As Sunriver’s number one amenity, users of the community’s 34 miles of paved pathways have expressed a variety of concerns over the years such as overcrowding, excessive speed, on/off leash dogs, signage, lack of rules enforcement, and an increase in electronic/motorized transportation. In response, the SROA Board of Directors approved the formation of a Pathway Safety Task Force in December
informed decision when voting. Each candidate will introduce themselves and share their reasons for running for the board. The forum will conclude with a moderated question and answer session from the Zoom audience to the candidates. Candidates will answer as many questions as time allows. This year’s election ballot and voter information package will be online and sent via email to owners by mid-July; the election closes at noon on Saturday, Aug. 9. In alphabetical order, here are brief bios on each candidate.
been a mom to twin daughters and 18 foreign exchange students through Rotary International.
Gregg Henton
I came to Sunriver in 2015 to help my mother, who was 86 at the time, and to take care of her home which she could no longer afford to do alone on a fixed income. After repainting the house, rebuilding the paver walkway and shelving in the house, I discovered that many of her friends in Sunriver had my phone number and were requesting assistance with projects at their homes.
My mother made me trustee in 2019.
2024. The task force includes Sunriver owners, bike shop representatives and other community partners who have met monthly since January. After several initial meetings, the task force divided into sub-groups to look into three specific topics: infrastructure, rules and enforcement, and communications and education.
I became owner of the family home in April 2024 following her passing. I grew up in Brazil, Denmark, Japan and Belgium. I graduated in 1975 from the American School in Sao Paulo, Brazil. I graduated from Westminster College (New Wilmington, Pennsylvania) in 1979 with a BA in Business Administration. I earned my MBA in Business Management from Northwood University (Midland, Michigan) in 2001.
I was employed by Oldsmobile Division of General Motors in the Portland
Linda Beard Gregg Henton Dale Harrison Pam Hays Sharon Martin
In partnership with Sunriver Resort and Sunriver Resort Vacation Properties, we leverage our unique access and knowledge to serve clients in ways no other brokerage can.
From our roots in Sunriver to being the exclusive brokerage for new development sales at Caldera Springs and our access to Crosswater, Sunriver Realty has become the go-to for real estate, vacation home rentals, and property management in our community.
Whether you’re looking to purchase a primary residence, a vacation home, or invest in a rental property, Sunriver Realty has the expertise and resources to support you every step of the way, redefining the brokerage model in our hometown market.
Candidates
SCENE
June 2025
Volume XLVIII, No. 6
57455 Abbot Drive PO Box 3278
Sunriver, OR 97707
OWNER/PUBLISHER
Sunriver Owners Association
The SUNRIVER SCENE is the o cial monthly publication of the Sunriver Owners Association, a not-for-pro t 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
Zone as a district manager in October 1982. Following assignments in Chicago and Lansing, Michigan, I accepted an assignment to GM in Moscow, Russia, where I worked on expanding the GM dealer network as director of marketing and sales for a new JV project with a Russian automaker. Currently, and since moving to Sunriver, I have been doing handyman work and snow plowing. A friend has joined me, and we are forming a new firm – Sundog Construction LLC – as we are being asked to take on ever larger projects including painting, deck refinishing, rebuilding and kitchen and bath remodeling.
I attend Sunriver Community Bible Church. Sunriver offers all the outdoors that an avid hiker, skier, camper, fisherman, mountain biker could ask for. I’ll try to fit these activities between construction projects and running a business.
I am single. I have one son who resides in Cleveland, and he will be getting married this November. I speak, read and write fluent Portuguese and speak some Russian. I have a one year old Pudelpointer (standard poodle/GSP mix) named Kalani.
Dale Harrison
I was born and raised in the Tacoma/Puyallup area of Washington state. My parents were hard workers, and they expected me to be the same. As a young man, I worked in the berry fields of Puyallup, tended gardens, learned carpentry and pumped gas. I worked hard to
attend college. Along the way, my family enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing and gardening, which I enjoy to this day.
When I was a senior in high school I fell for a beautiful sophomore girl – Judy.
After graduating high school, I attended the University of Washington and graduated with a BA in business in the spring of 1971. Judy and I were married that fall.
I spent the next 18 years in savings and loan business, progressing from a management trainee to the CEO/president of a startup savings loan in Bellevue, Washington. Our stock was publicly traded on NASDAQ. During this busy time, we were blessed with the births of our children – Heather (1974) and Scott (1976) and, thanks to them, we have four wonderful grandchildren.
I decided to change careers in 1989. Judy and I started Harrison Homes, LLC in Gig Harbor, Washington, specializing in custom homes and remodeling. After 33 years, five employees purchased the business, and I retired.
Throughout our marriage, Judy has worked, loved and supported me. Through all of the “ups & downs,” we have walked in the faith that God will provide… and he has!
We built our Sunriver home five years ago and intend to be permanent residents in 2026. We love the Sunriver community and the wonderful new friends we have made.
Pam Hays
My husband, Kirk, and I became Sunriver owners in the fall of 2019. We and our two children vacationed in Sunriver for more than 20 years. We decided to purchase a place of
our own as we started thinking about retirement.
I retired after nearly 40 years in the high-tech industry at the end of 2022. I spent the last 25 years of my career at Intel Corporation. At Intel, I was responsible for development of strategic programs, requiring strong communication and presentation skills, relationship management excellence, budget and financial management acumen, strong negotiation skills, market research aptitude and direct management of high-performing teams. I held several senior positions at Intel, including leading the Desktop Workstation Segment, acting as chief of staff and head of marketing for the Data Center Solutions Group, and building and leading the Patent Acquisitions Team.
I am passionate about mentoring/coaching. I am a certified coach and, throughout my career, helped women and men grow into senior positions.
I am currently a mentor with Opportunity Knocks, an organization in Bend that matches like-minded business leaders with a trusted team of peers.
I volunteer for a family foundation that funds nonprofits in San Francisco and Portland, as a board member and program officer focusing on arts and culture, and on health and human services. I also recently volunteered on the task force that developed the SROA 2030 Strategic Plan, giving me invaluable insights into Sunriver and its future.
In my spare time I enjoy bicycling and swimming.
Sharon Martin
I have been coming to Sunriver for 25 years with my husband Gary, as his parents
owned a second home here. I instantly fell in love with the stunning landscapes and the welcoming community that Sunriver offers. In 2017, we purchased our own home, and we knew Sunriver was the community where we belonged. Sunriver provides us with the opportunity to access the 34 miles of paths and enjoy the many wonderful restaurants. We are grateful to live here, as the environment provides the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
My career background consists of nearly 30 years in the title and escrow industry, working in San Diego and in Portland. My experience spanned both commercial and residential real estate, which allowed me to develop a strong foundation in customer relations. I genuinely enjoyed interacting with clients and individuals, listening to their needs and providing them with the support they required. It is incredibly rewarding to serve people by navigating their real estate transactions, and I took pride in being a reliable partner throughout their journey. I have many hobbies including being involved in the Community Bible Church, allowing my husband and I to get to know residents, as well as welcoming tourists during the summer and winter seasons. I enjoy walking and biking along the scenic paths, kayaking on the Deschutes River and snowmobiling during the winter months.
I look forward to continuing my journey here, building lasting relationships, and contributing to the wonderful tapestry that makes Sunriver feel like home.
I don’t play golf.
To be truthful, I do own a set of clubs and have in the past participated in the sport. To call me a golfer, however, would be an insult to nearly all other golfers.
Over the past couple of months, golf has been a “hot topic” in Sunriver as owners react to Sunriver Resort making the strategic business decision to turn both Woodlands and Meadows into private courses.
While Sunriver owners can become members, at a membership price significantly below that offered to others, the occasional golfer can no longer gain access on a per-round basis. Many owners have asked SROA General Manager James Lewis and the SROA board to intervene on their behalf. Some have even suggested we revoke pathways and road access for resort guests.
How should the board react?
I think it is important to be clear about the relationship between SROA and Sunriver Resort. First and foremost, it is important to recognize that Sunriver Resort is an SROA property owner, just like those who own homes in Sunriver. Like us, they pay annual maintenance fees, albeit substantially more than an individual property owner. As such,
they have rights, privileges and responsibilities like all Sunriver owners. A recent example is when they requested to remove more than 400 trees from the Woodlands golf course.
SROA Natural Resource personnel evaluated each tree and approved a subset of their request based on health, condition, spacing and other criteria under Sunriver’s Ladder Fuels Reduction Plan. Like all owners, the resort must comply with our rules and regulations. Secondly, I think it is important owners know that Sunriver Resort has been a strong partner to SROA and an excellent community supporter. Beyond investing more than $150 million over the last 20 years to improve their properties, resort management has actively lobbied regional, county and state governments in support of Sunriver.
Resort Managing Director Tom O’Shea was personally responsible for bringing Visit Central Oregon to Sunriver and has been a strong advocate for Transient Room Tax dollars to be allocated from the county to the Sunriver community. The resort also holds a series of community events (Grand Illuminations, Gin -
gerbread Junction, Backyard concerts, holiday fireworks/ drone events, etc.) open to all Sunriver owners at no expense. The resort’s support of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (SNCO) and the Sunriver Music Festival (SRMF) has been substantial and unwavering.
Early in May, I spent an hour speaking with O’Shea about his decision to privatize the Woodlands and Meadows golf courses. After this conversation, I can assure owners that this decision is neither based on malice toward Sunriver owners, nor an attempt to corner the Sunriver rental market. Like any successful private business, the Resort is in the process of setting their strategic direction for the next 10 years. Going private, they believe, will not only benefit their business, but will also benefit the community by providing Sunriver with greater exposure and notoriety. The decision to go private is a decision based on strengthening the Sunriver Resort brand. It does not take a leap of faith to envision this having a positive impact on Sunriver owners, including their home valuation. Sunriver is a community with multiple partners. SROA, through our owners (including Sunriver Resort), has built a community cherished by owners and their guests. We attract families from throughout the Pacific Northwest and
beyond as an ideal spot for family vacations. The vibrancy of our community is dependent on investments made by owners, SROA, rental managers, village businesses, the airport, Sunriver Service District, SNCO, and Sunriver Resort. We need the private businesses in our community to be successful to maintain that vibrancy. Sunriver Resort’s decision to take the Woodlands and Meadows golf courses private is a key element of their plan to position their business for long-term viability in an environment of increasing competition.
I know many owners are disappointed with this decision as it effects their and their guest’s ability to enjoy a game of golf “in their backyard.” On the good news side, there are multiple public golf courses in Central Oregon. Owners who enjoy playing golf on a regular basis can become members of the Sunriver golf club at a reduced rate.
And, if you enjoy watching championship golf, hang tight. Big name golf events, including four future United States Golf Association Championships, are coming to Sunriver. All owners will benefit from the additional exposure Sunriver Resort gains as it positions its business for success over the next 10 years.
Monthly meeting highlights, actions of the SROA Board of Directors
The Sunriver Owners Association (SROA) Board of Directors meeting was held Saturday, May 17, 2025.
Board members present: Gerhard Beenen, Bill Burke, Keith Mobley, Clark Pederson (via Zoom), Linda Beard, Roni Jacknow, Randy Schneider. Brad Banta was absent.
Staff present: James Lewis, Susan Berger, Jesus Mendoza.
Owners forums (summarized)
From May 16 work session
Read numerous letters into record from the following:
• Aaron Coldiron shared his displeasure with the actions of Sunriver Resort making golf subject to private membership or being a guest of a resort property. He stated these actions will affect rental properties in Sunriver not utilizing the Resort management services. He suggested a committee or task force be formed to explore
options that would bring the Resort to negotiate their actions and result in golf that was available to non-member owners and non-resort guests. He further suggested that SROA engage its legal counsel to explore actions the association can take against the Resort such as charging for access to the courses across SROA property, changing governing documents, revisiting maintenance agreements and fees, special assessments, etc.
• Michelle Walsh believes golf changes by the Resort will shift business away from the smaller property management companies to the Resort. She believes current maintenance fees paid by the Resort are based on an old cost model that does not adequately address the cost of infrastructure maintenance used by the Resort. She requested that SROA provide an explanation of how maintenance fees are allocated to own-
SROA Financial Report
Year to date through April 30, 2025 (unaudited)
Total Operating Revenue...................................$4,424,587
Total Operating Expenses*................................$4,576,026
Operating Surplus / (De cit).............................($151,439)
*Reserve Fund Contribution: $659,518
ers versus business owners. She also asked how SHARC use fees are allocated by user category.
• Steve Morrison asked if the board was aware that the Resort was going to make the golf courses private? He also asked if SROA felt this was reasonable and, if not, is there a plan to address this with the Resort management?
• Kristen Lawson commented on the discussion of the RPP program at the April Board meeting as an owner who previously participated in the program. She stated that she had participated in the program since 2007 until recent changes led her to withdraw. Reasons she no longer
By Clark Pederson
My wife and I were recently having dinner with two other Sunriver owner couples. We were talking about upcoming summer activities and how much we all enjoy getting out and floating the Deschutes River. One couple mentioned how they pay a fee at the Sunriver Resort Marina to have them bring their kayaks and guests back on the Resort shuttle from Canoe Takeout. I mentioned that they didn’t have to pay the shuttle fee if they had a SROA Member Preference Program (MPP) card. Both couples were surprised to hear that.
SROA has a contract with Sunriver Resort so MPP card holders can use the Resort shuttle service from the Benham Falls takeout back to the SROA boat launch at no charge. SROA pays the Resort an annual fee of $10,000+ for this benefit. We are allowed up to 1,000 river shuttle users at no charge and then reimburse based on additional use and up to a maximum amount that is agreed upon by both entities. Every year, we reach this maximum. This is one of the joint collaborations between SROA and the Resort.
Here are the requirements for shuttle use:
• You must check in and present at least one valid SROA MPP card to Sunriver Resort's Marina office PRIOR to floating and obtain a shuttle wristband for every member of your group. Maximum 12 people in a group.
• The pickup service is first come, first served and must be within the Resort’s scheduled pickup times (please plan your float time accordingly).
participates include hours of operation and availability of the facilities, namely SHARC. She noted closures due to smoke in comparison to the Resort’s Cove and also noted the general operating hours not being conducive to working families. She also noted the requirement to purchase a required number of passes based on the number of bedrooms in a home and suggests an “ala carte” offering.
• Bob Prentiss commented on the actions of the Resort to privatize golf. He stated that the issue is about more than just access to golf but more to the relationship between the
• Exit the river at the Canoe Takeout location.
• Show your wristband and ask the shuttle driver to return you to the SROA boat launch.
• Acceptable watercraft for pickup: Hard-sided canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, rafts, etc. under 17 feet. No float tubes.
Be sure to take your MPP card with you on the river so the shuttle driver can open the gate at the SROA boat launch if you would like them to drop you and your watercraft there. And please consider bringing funds to tip the drivers and takeout people for their assistance.
Gerhard Beenen
Treasurer
And, in case you were wondering, this free service is not available to rental homes with the Recreation Plus Program card. You must be an owner and have an MPP card.
I also shared with our dinner guests an additional benefit that also surprised them. Your MPP card can also get you into the Sunriver Nature Center and access to some of their special programs at no charge. Visiting the nature center is one of my
Highlights
Resort and SROA and owners. He believes there should be a separate forum to address the situation.
• Josh Lawson is concerned about the Resort’s decision to privatize golf. He believes the actions will affect the private rental market that sustains much of the Sunriver economy – which also enhances the quality of life in Sunriver. He believes this is one of multiple actions the Resort has taken to shift away from community partnerships and that it erodes the trust with owners and causes confusion for guests. He believes it will lead to less visitors to Sunriver overall. He compared Sunriver to other Central Oregon resort communities that have inclusive amenities for visitors and believes visitors will opt for those.
From May 17 regular meeting
• No owners spoke.
Board actions
• Approved minutes of the April 18, 2025 SROA board work session.
• Approved minutes of the April 19, 2025 regular board meeting.
• Acknowledged the minutes of the April 18, 2025 joint SROA/SSD meeting minutes.
• Approved the April 2025
favorite activities with visitors.
The nature center has a contract with SROA so MPP members can be admitted at no cost. In return, SROA reimburses the nature center up to $3,200 each year. When we reach this maximum the nature center will continue to honor MPP entry through the remainder of the year.
A second contract with the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory allows free admission of owners to 12 lectures during the year and to two special events during the year – such as Fungi Festival,
unaudited financial report.
• Approved supplemental second reading for proposed amendments to Section 1, Rules, Procedures and Enforcement, of the Sunriver Rules & Regulations as recommended from the SROA Covenants Committee.
Association operations
• Administration: Held several meetings with owners requesting the creation of a “no shooting district” under Deschutes County code for all of Sunriver. Held a follow up meeting with the Sunriver Nature Center regarding contractual issues and general coordination between our organizations. Held follow up meetings with Sunriver Resort regarding golf membership and the need for an easement across Resort property in order to create a Circle 2 to Circle 3 pathway. Also met with Meadow House association about the Circle 2-3 pathway easement. Pursuing all easement agreements to be ready if the Circle 2-3 pathway project can move forward. Continue to meet with TDS regarding fiber hookups. Conducted an all-staff meeting to share information between all departments.
• Accounting: Presented first quarter financial results to the Finance Committee. Continue with bulk fiber billings and communication with owners.
admittance to four SNCO special programs such as botanical tours, tree planting workshops, planetarium programs and free admittance to public nighttime visits to the observatory. You also are eligible for an SNCO membership at a 10% discount. If interested in any of the previously mentioned programs be sure to register early as attendance is often limited.
Our contract with SNCO is for $5,766 per month and, aside from what was previously mentioned, it also covers SNCO work with Arbor Day activities, Project Ponderosa,
To date, 1,600-plus homes now have access to internet fiber but only 550 homes have been activated. Worked with outside auditors on 2024 financials. Moved accounting staff into their new office space.
• Communications: Working to update signage across all facilities, especially recreationrelated signage as many are outdated and or worn out. Creating new signage at the main entry kiosks and replacing the kiosk information at Mary McCallum and Fort Rock parks. Continue to meet and plan for the community-wide Oktoberfest event in September.
• Community Development: There are currently 213 active projects/building permits. There are still eight homes identified in the 2023 annual paint survey that have not painted, and monthly citations continue to be issued. Working with the Covenants Committee on changes to Section 1.00 of the Sunriver Rules & Regulations. Tree protection inspections continue with letters of non-compliance to be mailed in May.
• Natural Resources: Prepared and mailed LFR Notice of Deficiency reminder postcards. Prepared 1,000 ponderosa bare-root seedlings to celebrate Sunriver Arbor Week. Planted 600 ponderosa seedlings in restoration areas around the community. Participated in
SROA capital improvement forum set for June 26
SROA NEWS – During last year’s budget process there were several major projects that were tabled from the budget, including the expansion of SHARC’s fitness center, living room and staff office space, a revamp of Fort Rock Park and items from the Pathway Master Plan such as creating a new pathway between Circle 2 and Circle 3.
SROA is hosting a forum on June 26 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at SHARC to share conceptual design plans, hear from owners about these projects and which items they feel are the most important. For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be recorded for later viewing. The conceptual design plans will also posted to the SROA
War on Weeds, Western toad rescue, monitoring Lake Aspen, oversight and care of Sunriver’s trumpeter swans and wildlife rehabilitation.
SNCO maintains a dedicated phone line for resident questions and requests for support at 541-593-4394 or email at info@snco.org.
One last benefit I shared with our dinner guests is that some Sunriver area businesses and restaurants provide a discount on products and services to owners who show their valid SROA Membership Card (you must be the one pictured on the
and gave a presentation at the April Home Expo. Participated in the Sunriver Wildfire Preparedness Fair. Staff attended the 2025 Oregon Prepared Conference.
• IT: Removed IT equipment stored in the admin building attic per fire marshal requirements. Continue to monitor AV issues at SHARC which boiled down to power surges knocking the system online. Also searching for a new AV support company. New point of sale up and running at SHARC.
• Public Works: Installed all tennis/pickleball nets and developed a court cleaning schedule for the season. Dewinterized and opened all drinking fountains and restrooms. The slide at the Fort Rock Playground structure was vandalized with a large rock which broke the slide. The structure will remained closed until the new slide arrives. Work on the Wildflower tunnel continues on time despite additional utilities discovered during changes in pathway grades. One full round of LFR
card to receive the discount). Just ask if they offer a "local owner" discount and be ready to show your card. One of those businesses is the Village Bar and Grill which gives a 10% discount.
For further details about MPP programs, check out the Owner Benefit section on our website at www. sunriverowners.org.
--Clark Pederson is the Treasurer of the SROA Board of Directors and chair of the Finance Committee. pederson@ srowners.org
pickup was completed. Pool expansion joints and hydrostatic valves repaired/replaced. Slide repairs at the Member Pool were completed. Spring cleanup is underway.
• Recreation/SHARC: Migration to new point of sale and inventory reporting is completed. Part-time hiring has begun with three lifeguard certification classes completed and six lifeguards are ready for onboarding with seven more in training. Six attendants have also been hired. An aquatics manager and two aquatic supervisor positions are being filled as soon as possible.
The meeting adjourned at 10:25 a.m.
The next SROA board work session will take place at 9 a.m. June 20 followed by the regular board meeting at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 21.
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
NOTICE OF ELECTION
website following the meeting and additional opportunities for owner input.
An election of the membership of the Sunriver Owners Association will be conducted by electronic ballot to elect three (3) members to the Sunriver Owners Association Board of Directors
Electronic ballots will be sent in July and must be submitted no later than Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 12pm
Sunriver Chamber releases 2025 Sunriver Magazine
The Sunriver Chamber of Commerce 2025 “Sunriver Magazine” captures everything Sunriver – from its natural beauty and recreational opportunities to places to eat, shop and the spirit of the Sunriver community.
The magazine was published by Cascade Publications Inc. of Bend, in collaboration with the Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce.
Thank you to Cascade Publications President/Publisher Jeff Martin and Editor/Production Director Marcee Hillman Moeggenberg for their dedication to craft an informational, high-quality magazine.
Thank you to Sunriver Owners Association, The Village at Sunriver, Sunriver Resort, High Desert Museum, Mt. Bachelor, Sunriver Music Festival, Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, Visit Central Oregon, Sunriver Women's Club and Artists' Gallery Sunriver for their contributions to the magazine from photographs
to copy.
A tremendous thank you to all the businesses who advertised in the magazine and everyone who shared their photographs.
Congratulations to Sunriver Magazine cover photographer Ashley Schneider and her fiancé Shae Callewaert, moved to Bend in September 2021, sight unseen. Originally from Wisconsin, they were motivated to see more of our beautiful country and Oregon seemed like a natural fit.
With adventurous momentum, Schneider and Callewaert embarked on a seemingly endless list of excursions.
Hiking up South Sister, backpacking to Park Meadows, camping at East Lake, taking in the views atop Paulina Peak and much more – all with a camera in hand.
The first time Schneider visited Sunriver, she was attending the 2021 FungiFest held at the Sunriver Nature Center &
Observatory. “The community, serene nature and wild beauty of Sunriver were captivating… so I keep coming back,” she said.
In the past, Schneider has worked in portrait photography and weddings, but since moving to Oregon she has grown an insatiable fondness for capturing the natural world.
As she continues to explore, you can follow her photography on Instagram @ashleymschneider and her website https:// ashleymschneider56. myportfolio.com
SROA NEWS – In 2024, the case load for the Sunriver Owners Association’s magistrate was slightly lighter with 229 violations heard compared to 240 in 2023.
“I suspect the newish and slightly scarier ‘graduated fine schedule’ helped curb repeat
offenses,” SROA magistrate Jo Zucker said.
For instance, in 2023, Natural Resources issued multiple citations for persistent ladder fuel violations with one property receiving up to nine citations for the same issue.
This year, there’s only one,
four-time offender, and nothing beyond that. “Nothing promotes compliance like accelerating fines,” Zucker said. When a property owner does attend a hearing, many receive a quick tutorial on “What Compliance Looks Like” and oftentimes sparks a productive
exchange between staff and the owner.
“I will often set the hearing over (reschedule to the following month) and gently remind them that the fines will keep flowing until the issue stops growing but let them know that those who fix things fast tend to
get a break when final fines are assessed,” Zucker said.
Violation types
• Design rule violations (109): The usual suspects are back with repeat offenders from the “pre-escalating fine” era who figured out that paying a modest fine is easier than hiring a painter. Today, that game is nearly over.
•Sunriver Rules & Regulations (120): Mostly ladder fuel violations (67). Better than last year's 104 but still smoldering. •Sunriver Police Department citations: A peaceful year with no citations issued.
•Special hearings: Six in 2024 and two (so far) in 2025.
Fines and Collections
There was $26,040 assessed in fines – far below last year’s $68,000. The drop is mostly due to the welcome disappearance of non-permitted tree cutting violations, which tend to be expensive for everyone involved.
SROA Compliance Corner: Changes in contractor registration
On June 15, 2023, the revised Design Committee Manual of Rules & Procedures went into effect. However, what many folks don’t know is that several processes and procedures were changed at the same time. This is evident by numerous owners still asking for an “SROA registered contractors” list.
In the past, SROA would accept applications from contractors and verify they were licensed/bonded/insured through the CCB and/or LCB before adding them to the registered contractors list and providing them with contactor parking passes.
This practice was used to provide owners with a list of CCB/LCB approved/qualified contractors to choose from, as well as provide qualified contractors with SROA contractor parking passes – thus allowing contractors to work in Sunriver.
Although that list included a bold faced and lengthy disclaimer at the top, many viewed the contractors on the list as “approved and/or endorsed” by SROA. Unfortunately, a small number of contractors who made it onto that list were less than reputable.
The ensuing fallout between owners and these contractors
unduly exposed SROA to liability. This necessitated action on the part of the SROA Board of Directors who wisely chose to put an end to the “registration” of contractors in Sunriver.
As of June 2023, the SROA Community Development Department updated the SROA Contractor Registration process to a SROA Contractor Parking Pass Application process. This process still allows contractors to obtain the required parking passes that allow parking and provides face-to-face interaction with Community Devel-
opment staff. It also provides the opportunity for an education on the rules or, in most cases, a helpful refresher.
While the convenience of the registered contractors list is a thing of the past, it is still the sole responsibility of the property owner of record to use contractors who have successfully completed the new application process with SROA. Failure to do so may result in a Class C violation, and repeated failure may result in exposure to a graduated fine schedule. As a reminder, Community
Development staff inspects lanes in Sunriver and checks for contractor parking passes, which should be displayed on the dashboard of all contractor vehicles.
To ensure the contractor(s) you are potentially hiring have successfully completed the proper application process with SROA, request a copy of their SROA Contractor Parking Pass(es) with their estimate, or reach out to Community Development staff at 541-5936645 or email designinfo@ srowners.org
As part of the process, the task force is ready to present its initial findings to owners in an online Zoom forum hosted by Sunriver You on Thursday, June 12 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be presented by SROA General Manager James Lewis and members of the Pathway Safety Task Force. The forum will present an overview of the primary issues discussed by the task force and sub-groups to provide findings and rationale for any recommendations related to various issues and a prioritization for implementation, once adopted by the SROA board. A draft report will be available for review and posted to the Pathway Safety Task Force page on the SROA website at www.sunriverowners.org/taskforceprojects. Zoom forum attendees will have an opportunity to submit questions via the meeting moderator as time allows. Owners may also submit questions following the forum via email to infosroa@srowners.org
Registration to attend is required to receive the Zoom link.
Visit www.sunriveryou.com/ classes to sign up.
Artists bring great things to the gallery
By Deni Porter
It is the beginning of another great summer season in Central Oregon. The Artists’ Gallery in The Village at Sunriver celebrates with the greatest number of talented artists in the establishment’s history.
Visitors will want to stop by and enjoy work from new artists and new work from old artists. Share a party with everyone by attending the Second Saturday celebration from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 14. Artists will be serving delicious appetizers and refreshing drinks.
Blue Spruce Pottery
New to the gallery, but certainly not Central Oregon, are beautiful stoneware and raku pottery pieces by Blue Spruce
Pottery.
Blue Spruce Pottery was initially started by Michael and Michele Gwinup in 1976. Their daughter, Melissa, and her husband, Patrick Woodman, have provided studio leadership since 2003.
The studio produces beautiful, functional and food safe stoneware pieces that reflect the inspiration of the mountains of Central Oregon. These pieces are meant to be used and enjoyed. The studio also produces decorative art pieces using the glazing/firing process of raku.
Raku pieces are fired at 1,800 degrees and then removed from the kiln and placed in sawdust where they instantly catch fire. This is where the magic happens. Fire pulls the oxygen
from the glaze, and when that fire is deprived of oxygen, amazing metallic colors appear.
Each piece of pottery is special and unique.
Painter Majorie Cossairt Cossairt enrolled in a watercolor class in the fall of 2005 and has been producing extraordinary art pieces ever since. Cossairt was a bit worried that she would not be successful, but we can all get a laugh from that now. We always caution collectors not to “think about a purchase” of her work, because the piece will move on to another home quickly.
After starting with water -
color, Cossairt now works in multiple other mediums including acrylic and ceramics. Sometimes, she incorporates all mediums into a single piece of art. She will paint a beautiful background and add delicate ceramic flowers in the foreground.
Fused glass artist Heidi Brown Brown contributes some beautiful sparkle just as visitors enter the gallery. Back lit by a
Ceramics by Blue Spruce Pottery. Painting by Marjorie Cossiart.
Time to inspect for noxious weeds, and pull before they go to seed
SROA NEWS – Noxious weeds are non-native invasive plants that, once introduced to an area, displace native plants and reduce wildlife habitat. Noxious weeds can rapidly degrade a landscape if not actively managed and controlled.
Inspecting for noxious weeds every season as they emerge and preventing them from going to seed will lessen their impact.
The control of Dalmatian toadflax; spotted knapweed; bull, Canada and Russian thistles; and Scotch broom is mandatory per the Sunriver Noxious Weed Management Plan.
Owners are responsible for removing and preventing the spread of noxious weeds on their private properties, and SROA does this on commons throughout Sunriver.
We’re all in this together!
As noxious weeds have now emerged in Sunriver and their rapid-pace lifecycle is underway, owners are encouraged to become familiar with these noxious weeds and regularly inspect their properties to locate any that appear. Start by looking in areas where noxious weeds have been present in the past, as they often are found in the same location annually. Resources that will help own-
ers identify and properly treat noxious weeds are available anytime at sunriverowners.org/ noxiousweeds.
This time of year, owners may see SROA Natural Resources staff and volunteers revisiting locations on commons where noxious weeds have been present in the past, searching for new hot spots and undertaking spraying and pulling activities, which will continue throughout the summer.
Staff members also assist owners with meeting their obligation to control weeds by performing annual inspections throughout the month of June
and notifying owners if weeds are present on their properties by mid-July. If you see noxious weeds on your property before that time, start removing them immediately.
Please don’t assume that if you do not receive notification
from SROA that you do not have noxious weeds on your property or that you are not responsible for controlling them. We do our best to locate noxious weeds throughout the community, but you are the most knowledgeable manager
Save the date for War on Weeds
Aug. 1-14 SROA’s 25th Annual War on Weeds
Plan to take part in this community-wide effort to remove spotted knapweed on commons and help keep Sunriver landscapes beautiful and healthy. Visit www.sunriverowners.org/noxiousweeds for details and to register.
of your own private property, so begin your inspections now and take action whether you hear from us or not.
All community members are invited to participate in the 2025 War on Weeds, SROA’s community-wide effort to pull spotted knapweed on commons. Activities take place Aug. 1-14. With the ability to set your own schedule and choose to work in a convenient location for you, this program provides flexibility, opportunities to explore Sunriver, and even a chance to win prizes. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us.
At Caldera Springs, life is shaped by the outdoors—from paddling quiet lakes and biking scenic trails to gathering for poolside days at Forest House, rallying on the pickleball courts or dining with Mt. Bachelor views at Lake House. As Central Oregon’s premier residential resort community, Caldera Springs offers recreation for every season with spaces designed to bring people together. Discover a lifestyle rooted in nature, connection and year-round adventure.
Knapweed flowers
Knapweed rosette
owner enrichment activities
Sunriver You upcoming classes: Summer will be here before we know it
“Growing older gracefully means having a keen curiosity about learning things about the world that you didn't know yesterday, no matter how many yesterdays you've had."
–Padma Lakshmi
• For those who want to learn how to play Pétanque, it is time to sign up for the June or July class. Classes are limited to 12 students.
• Are you curious about the findings and proposed recommendations of the SROA Pathway Safety Task Force? Mark your calendar and register for the Pathway Safety Task Force Recommendations Forum on June 12.
• Who should you vote for during the upcoming annual SROA Board of Directors election? Attending the virtual Candidate Forum scheduled for June 24 will provide an opportunity to hear from and submit questions for each of the five candidates vying for three open seats.
• Are you looking for a way to reduce stress and anxiety? Attend the ongoing Silent
All Sunriver You classes require registration, which closes 24 hours before the class start time.
Visit sunriveryou.com to register.
Meditation Drop-In Gathering and Teaching classes offered monthly on the first and third Friday each month. Note the time change to 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is not required.
• Planning for the Fall Travel Forum presentation is in the works as are other classes. Stay tuned for information in future Sunriver You articles in the Scene and class offerings on the Sunriver You website, www. sunriveryou.com.
Continue reading for class descriptions and presenter information. All classes require registration through www. sunriveryou.com and closes 24 hours prior to the class start time except for SROA forums, for which registration doesn’t
close until well after the forum has begun.
The Sunriver You website also includes an option to view recorded forums and select classes on YouTube. Check out what you may have missed and watch for future additions at www.sunriveryou.com/videos.
Learn to Play the Game of Pétanque
Tuesday, June 10 or July 22, 10 a.m. at the Mary McCallum pétanque courts just west of the parking lot.
Pétanque is a game similar to bocce ball and an enjoyable way to connect with others. No prior experience or equipment is needed. Each class is limited to 12 participants. Sunriver has an active pétanque club of approximately 35 members. Stay after class and practice with classmates. Players of all abilities are welcome.
Gary Bigham started playing pétanque in Seattle at FrenchAmerican Chamber of Commerce picnics around 1995. In 2016, Bigham and his wife moved from Washington to
Free Young Artists Scholarship Concert
Friday, June 6 at 7 PM Community Bible Church at Sunriver
Join us for a free concert featuring the 2025 Young Artists Scholarship (YAS) recipients. All are invited; tickets are not required. Come be inspired by the future of music.
The YAS program has awarded over $750K in scholarships to exceptional young classical music students throughout Central Oregon.
Raise the Baton Fundraising Party
Saturday, June 21 at 5 PM Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend
Raise the Baton is Sunriver Music Festival’s premier fundraising party of the year! This lively event raises vital funds for Young Artists Scholarships & the Festival’s worldclass concerts. This fun evening includes a silent auction, paddle raise, entertainment & dinner by Bowtie Catering! Tickets $125.
Sunriver. After two summers of no pétanque, Bigham got together with a small group interested in learning the game in spring 2019.
SROA Board Forum: Pathway Safety Task Force Recommendations
Thursday, June 12 at 4 p.m. via Zoom
The SROA Pathway Safety Task Force consists of multiple Sunriver owners and community partners who have gathered to discuss the safety concerns related to the increasing use of the SROA pathways. Such concerns include overall congestion, e-bike use, rule enforcement, signs, pets, etc. The culmination of the task force’s work will be a report to the SROA Board of Directors that includes the issues discussed, the findings and rationale for the recommendation related to each issue, and the prioritized recommendations themselves. Ultimately, the report will be considered for approval and implementation by the SROA Board. The
Dog Walk Thursday, June 5. Meet at 11 a.m. at the dog park on Cottonwood Road (across from the north store) and tour the northern end of Sunriver as a “woofy” group.
forum will present an overview of the primary issues discussed by the task force and the basis of their recommendations. A draft of the report will be available for public review prior to the forum and will be posted to the Pathway Safety Task Force section of the SROA webpage (sunriverowners.org/ taskforceprojects). Viewers will have the opportunity to submit questions via chat to the presenters. Presented by SROA staff and Pathway Safety Task Force members.
2025 SROA Board of Directors Candidate Forum Tuesday, June 24 at 4 p.m. via Zoom.
The annual SROA Board of
Artwork by David Young-Wolff
sun filled window, the artist’s pieces beckon. Even on a dark day, sparkle is provided by a shine from her delightful glass nightlights.
Brown’s pieces range from horseshoe and fused glass garden stakes to large scale pieces such as metal wagon wheels with glass panels. Many of her pieces have a whimsical and western flair that frequently incorporate brightly colored flowers.
Painter Bill Hamilton
Hamilton says that one of his goals is “to be able to paint any subject, in any light, and not get stuck in a box painting only a few subjects.”
Hamilton can produce a sweeping landscape of Central Oregon – sometimes with all
the mountain ranges – or he can capture the viewer’s heart with the eyes of a bear or racoon.
He has achieved the ability to produce pieces that are simplified – letting basic shapes tell the story. However, his many years as an illustrator peak out a bit behind the composition
to provide the realism that so many viewers are looking for.
It is worth noting that Hamilton is a soft-spoken individual, but he can really work up some good stories. Stop by and meet him at gallery events.
The Artists’ Gallery is in building 19 of The Village at Sunriver, next door to the
Ongoing Silent Meditation Drop-In Gathering and Teaching
Mexican restaurant. Summer hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For information, visit www.ArtistsGallerySunriver. com or call 541-593-4382.
Directors elections are coming up, and there are three open seats on the board. Don’t miss this chance to meet the five candidates! This forum is intended as a way for you to get to know the candidates and their priorities regarding Sunriver, so that you can make an informed decision when you vote. Each candidate will briefly introduce themselves and their reason for running for the board. Then the moderator will present questions submitted by forum attendees via chat, which each candidate will have an opportunity to answer.
The election ballot and voter information package will be electronic and sent via email to owners by mid-July; the election will close at noon on Aug. 9.
Held the first and third Friday of the month 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Crescent Room at SHARC. Please arrive five minutes early so the class can start and end on time.
No registration required and all are welcome to this drop-in class. Chairs will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring a cushion and other items for your comfort.
Sessions include a 20-minute silent sit. Teaching and introduction to companion practices will be offered in addition to the silent sit.
Class instructor 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.
In the summertime Sunriver becomes a nursery for a variety of wildlife – especially mule deer – but please ...
While babies may appear to be abandoned, mule deer mothers will often leave their fawns all day while they forage for food. AND DON’T LET YOUR DOG HARASS WILDLIFE
SLOW DOWN: Drive with caution on Sunriver’s roads as the deer have little fear of cars and are known to wander into tra c.
Call 541-593-4394 if you have questions about area wildlife
Painting by Bill Hamilton.
Fused Glass by Heidi Brown.
SROA building permits are required in Sunriver
By Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory Staff
Just when we’re all dusting off our bikes and waving goodbye to another snowy Central Oregon winter, something magical starts to happen across Sunriver: the wildflowers return.
Like nature’s version of confetti – subtle, colorful and a little unpredictable – these native blooms pop up across meadows, riverbanks and forest floors, reminding us that yes, the world is still beautiful, and no, those weren’t just weeds you saw on your walk yesterday.
Meet the local celebrities
• Rocky Mountain Iris (Iris missouriensis): Yo, Adrian! It’s me, Rocky… Rocky Mountain Iris that is! You can’t miss these purple beauties soaking up the sunshine in Sunriver’s meadow
areas in May and June. Standing a foot tall, the showy flowers look like flamenco dancers in hues of blue, lavender and occasionally, white.
• Arrowleaf Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata): Imagine a sunflower on vacation –relaxed, hearty and totally thriving in the high desert. With its bright yellow blooms
and arrow-shaped leaves, balsamroot is the poster child of Central Oregon spring. You’ll find it waving hello from open meadows and pine forests, usually surrounded by admirers (aka pollinators).
• Lupine (Lupinus spp.) : These tall spires of purple and blue are the drama queens of the wildflower world. They
show up in mid-summer and steal the show wherever they’re planted. Bonus: lupine improves the soil as it grows. So, not only is it beautiful, but it’s also generous. A true icon.
• Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja spp.): Bold, bright and a little sneaky – this flower’s vibrant “brushes” aren’t actually petals, but modified leaves. It also likes to borrow nutrients from neighboring plants, which is honestly pretty relatable.
• Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) : Oregon’s state flower is an early spring bloomer with bright yellow flowers that turn to blue/purple “grapes” by the end of summer. And, while the grapes are edible, they can be quite tart. Forget about turning them to wine and leave the grapes for the birds – especially robins.
• Oregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum): With a name like that, you’d expect it to be cheerful – and it delivers. This
sunny little flower looks like it's perpetually in a good mood, thriving in dry, open spaces with a silvery leaf shimmer that’s basically plant sunscreen. It’s drought-tolerant, tough as nails and still manages to look adorable.
• Western Pasqueflower (Anemone occidentalis): These early risers don’t wait for warm weather to make an entrance. With their soft purple blooms and feathery seed heads, they’re like the quirky older cousin of the flower world – unique, a little wild and unforgettable. Where to catch the bloom show
If you want a front-row seat to the wildflower parade, grab your water bottle and hit Sunriver’s trails. Around the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, you’ll spot balsamroot and lupine in late
Rocky Mountain Iris Lupine Oregon Grape Indian Paintbrush
Second Tern Thrift Store: Games & Puzzles Department
Most of us are familiar with games such as Monopoly, Clue, Scrabble, Rummikub, Trivial Pursuit, Pictionary, Mahjong, checkers, chess and even Twister.
But included in the more than 30 games currently on the Second Tern Thrift Store Games & Puzzles’ shelves are such titles as Wise & Otherwise, Oodles: The Game You Can’t Get Enough Of, Count Your Chickens and the winner for the longest title: Don’t Be Difficult: A Game to Help Children Consider the Consequences of Both Positive and Negative Choices.
The more than 100 puzzles range from 48 to 2,000 pieces with varied subjects such as rain forest frogs, Van Gogh, Star Trek, the Grand Canyon, a kitty, butterflies, an eagle, golf and dinosaurs.
The Games & Puzzles De-
partment volunteers are Donna and Dick Kennish, Peggy Lyche and Barbie Siordia.
Peggy and Barbie, good friends, concentrate on puzzles.
Peggy has lived in Central Oregon for 50 years. She worked as a finance director at a hospice for 10 years and then moved on to being an administrator in the medical field. Now that she is retired, she keeps busy with family and friends, gardening, yardwork and volunteering.
“I like to give back to the community and volunteering is the way I can do that. I have volunteered with Meals on Wheels, helped at an assisted living center with a disabled person and now at the Tern,” Peggy said. “I like new adventures and challenges, so I keep pretty active in my daily life.”
Barbie has lived in Central Oregon since 1997.
logical powerhouses. They support pollinators, stabilize soil and help preserve biodiversity. Here’s how you can help:
“It is a beautiful, fun place to live,” she said. “I enjoy hiking, birding, kayaking and just relaxing.” She worked in the electronics department at Beaver Coach, then at her sister and brother-in-law's business as an operations manager.
“I have been going to the Second Tern for many years now and enjoy looking for quality treasures. The Tern is a very unique secondhand store
with lots of goods that remind me of Central Oregon,” Barbie added. “Volunteering in
spring. Head to the shady paths near Lake Aspen or along the Deschutes River for more subtle blooms like violets, yarrow and other treasures hiding in plain sight.
Timing is everything – late May through July is usually prime time, but bloom windows can shift depending on our ever-surprising Central Oregon weather (looking at you, late-May snowstorms).
How to be a wildflower wingman
Native wildflowers aren’t just pretty faces – they’re eco-
• Stick to trails (wildflowers are not fans of foot traffic)
• Don’t pick the flowers (no matter how Instagram-worthy they are)
• Plant natives at home (penstemon, Oregon sunshine and buckwheat make great guests) They’ll reward you by being low-maintenance, droughttolerant and just the right kind of wild.
Get involved with SNCO
At Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, we love any excuse to talk about plants, bugs
and all things nature. Join us this summer for guided walks or simply swing by to chat wildflowers – we promise we won’t quiz you on Latin names (unless you’re into that).
So next time you’re out for a walk and notice a little pop of color beside the trail, take a closer look. That’s not just a pretty flower – it’s a sign that life, even in the high desert, is thriving in full color.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is located 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.
Peggy Lyche
Donna & Dick Kennish Barbie Siordia
the puzzle area brings lots of laughs with friends and other volunteers. And I still do a lot of shopping!”
Donna and Dick Kennish work as a team sorting, cleaning and counting pieces of donated board games. They purchased a house in Central Oregon in 2012. Dick, a chemical engineer, retired in 2015. Donna, a schoolteacher, retired in 2020, and they moved here full-time.
They are avid hikers and bikers. Donna was a previous Tern shopper, and as soon as the Tern re-opened after being closed for a few months during the “summer of COVID,” she began volunteering in clothing, as a cashier and with games.
Donna and Dick make sure each board game is complete, with instructions, downloaded off the internet if necessary.
“About 30 percent of game donations are not saleable, but we keep pieces from those rejects to complete the next
slightly incomplete game that comes in,” Donna said.
Among their personal favorite games are Dominium and Settlers of Catan and they have formed a Sunriver game club that meets about twice a month where like-minded players gather for games in a social atmosphere. As a cashier, Donna often has the opportunity to interact with game buyers, talk about a particular game, give advice regarding what category, interest and age-appropriate games that may be available.
Savor summer with wine during Uncorked
Experience two unforgettable days of wine, music and community at the Sunriver Owners Association’s summer celebration – Uncorked – hosted at SHARC’s Benham Hall and outdoor amphitheater in July.
Event hours are 3 to 8 p.m.
Friday, July 18, and 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 19. A 21 and older event, early bird pricing to Uncorked is $20 for an admis-
sion ticket and $20 for a “food pairing voucher” if purchased online at www.bendticket.com by June 8. Prices go to $25 each after June 8.
Admission includes attendance for both days, souvenir Uncorked stemless wine glass for tastings, two tasting tokens, a raffle entry for a variety of prizes and live music. Early bird admission purchase also
includes a wine bag.
Featured wines come from renowned vineyards of Southern Oregon, Willamette Valley and Columbia River Valley. Enjoy live music and sip your way through a curated selection of regional favorites. Tastings and bottle purchase prices will vary by winery.
Whether you’re picking up a single bottle or a case, there’s no better way to savor summer.
Food will be presented by Soul Fire Kitchen. Attendees can buy a la carte options at the Soul Fire food cart or purchase a “food pairing voucher” which includes access to four of six
Yes, the Tern is a full-service shopping experience.
Join Barbie, Peggy, Donna and Dick, and the 70 other Tern volunteers, making a difference in the lives of the customers, supporting the concepts of reduce, reuse, recycle, benefiting the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, and having fun.
The Second Tern is located at 17377 Spring River Road, just west of Harper Bridge.
The Tern is open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
year-round; donations are 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: 541-593-3367 (Tern), 541593-4394 (Nature Center) or visit www.snco.org
appetizers intentionally paired with the attending wineries.
The Door at Three Rivers 10am Sunday 86885 Enterprise Drive (Bus. Park) 541-550-3088 www.thedoor3r.org
Pastor: Brent Maxwell
Empowering through service: Sunriver Women’s Club commitment
June is Pride Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the resilience, contribution and progress of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a reminder that the pursuit of equality, dignity and visibility continues today.
Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall riots of June 1969, a pivotal event that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Since then, Pride has evolved into a global movement that not only honors the courage of early activists but also amplifies the voices of those still advocating for equality today. What began as a call
for justice in New York City has become an international celebration of identity, love and inclusion.
Locally, the Sunriver Women’s Club (SRWC) reflects the values of Pride Month through its ongoing commitment to service, equity and communitybuilding. With more than 400 members, SRWC offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities, social groups and fundraising events that bring people together across generations, backgrounds and identities. The club includes LGBTQ+ members and fosters a welcoming environment where every-
Tam Sauter
one feels valued and respected. Kathie Maier, and her wife, Sharon Iriye, moved to the area in October 2023 and joined the Sunriver Women’s Club around that time. “I feel totally and completely embraced as a new member of the Sunriver Women’s Club. Nobody thinks of me as the gay member; they think of me as Kathie the member.” Kathie and Sharon have been together for 35 years and have been legally married for 17 years. They moved to the Three Rivers community for the outdoor activities and to have property. “Everybody is so accepting and welcoming. I feel like any other member of the group,” she added. Founded in 1972 by a small group of local women, the SRWC sought to strengthen the Sunriver community through social connections and charitable giving. Over time, the club has grown in scope and impact, awarding more than $1.2 million in grants to nonprofits in south Deschutes County since 1999.
SUNRIVER ART FAIR
AUGUST 8, 9 & 10, 2025
As Pride Month is celebrated, let’s honor the past, support the present and continue building an inclusive future – for everyone.
President’s message
The Sunriver Women’s Club welcomes members who live here full-time and part-time, as well as members from the greater Central Oregon area, from La Pine to Redmond. We are an organization that has fun and gives back to south Deschutes County through our community grant program.
Many of us moved here from other communities, leaving family and friends. The SRWC has many ways to meet people and build relationships. Join us at our monthly coffees or happy hours. The community picnic on July 16 is an opportunity for the entire community to come together. The annual Sunriver Art Fair on Aug. 8-10 raises funds for the club’s community grant program. Check www.sunriverwomensclub.org for more information.
–Brigitte Bourret, SRWC president
Shred, drug disposal event
Join the Sunriver Police Department for the annual shredding and prescription drug disposal event.
This event is free to the public and will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 14 at Sunriver Police and Fire department, 57475 Abbot Drive in Sunriver (located between Circle 3 and Circle 4).
Bring your personal residential shredding and prescription
drugs for disposal. The shredder can take paper clips, staples and paper board file folders (no plastic folders). Black out names or remove labels from medication bottles.
There is also a food drive of non-perishable food items to benefit a local nonprofit organization.
For questions or more information, please call 541-5938622.
By Mark McConnell
Maybe you don't have the extra funds right now to donate to Care and Share directly, but you want to be an “active” supporter of our local food bank?
If that is the case, then read on to find out how you can help those who experience food insecurity in the south Deschutes County area.
There are two ways you can make a difference in someone's life.
First, you can donate your refundable cans and bottles by taking them to the collection site at the “North Store” Marketplace on Cottonwood Road. The bin is outside on the east side of the building, toward the back of the parking lot.
Volunteers appreciate empty items, and no other items in your bags to keep it less messy. Anything that does not have an
Oregon (OR) deposit needs to be disposed of elsewhere. We are a volunteer group and not equipped to deal with other recycling items or trash.
Second, you can volunteer to be on our team of redeemers. We can always use more people to help us process the cans. The staff at the store has set us up with our own special area in the back to make it easy to sort, without feeding the machine one at a time. We still process glass using the machine, but it is a small amount of what we redeem. Each volunteer – or team of two – takes a day of the week to be responsible to empty the bin and sort the items.
Currently there are two days when we need volunteers: Thursday and Saturday. However, we can always use back-up redeemers to help when the
“regulars” are gone or need a break. You also can sign up for an every-other-week duty if you wish. It takes about a half hour on average to empty and process the bin.
We need more volunteers to fill in our schedule, or maybe you can team up with one of
our regulars and take a day every-other-week.
If you are interested in taking action against food insecurity
in our area, please call Mark at 541-270-1313 and leave a message or email mcconn@ me.com
541.788.7574
SSPT Soft Hackle
Materials List
Hook: Tiemco 3769 barbed, or Firehole 609 barbless, size 14-18
Thread: Danville 6/0 flat waxed, tobacco brown
Tail and abdomen: Ringneck pheasant tail feather
Rib: Ultra copper wire, size BR
Thorax: Natural peacock tail feather
Soft hackle: Whiting schlappen, dyed orange and natural gray squirrel
Tying Instructions:
Tying instructions and steps are published in video form and can be found on the Sunriver Anglers Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SunriverAnglers/ or on YouTube at https://youtu.be/RI8Fd2GECsE
By Phil Fischer
I have gone to Fall River a few times in February and early March. I’ve found solace abundant during my visits. There is nothing better than casting on a beautiful river with a bit of snow on the ground, crisp mountain air, and a beautiful blue sky.
For this month’s Fly Tying Corner, I tied an SSPT soft hackle. SSPT is short for squirrel, schlappen and pheasant tail, the main ingredients in this pattern. It is an adaptation of the more common pheasant tail nymph. But this version uses materials that give life and movement to the fly. The soft hackle is tied using a composite dubbing loop technique which blends the squirrel and dyed orange schlappen.
Schlappen comes from a rooster and are the long webby feathers just in front of the tail. When blended and tied as a soft hackle, these materials move and pulse in the water, which hungry trout can’t resist.
The video for this pattern introduces tools I’ve used for ty-
ing flies using a dubbing loop. The composite loop comprises multiple types of materials within a dubbing loop blended to form a composite material, in this case the soft hackle utilizing a whiting schlappen and gray squirrel.
The technique uses a Swiss CDC clamp which I obtained recently from the Hook Fly Shop in Sunriver, and a loon dubbing spinner. These tools make spinning materials in a dubbing loop much easier than the former methods I employed. It creates endless alternatives for marrying materials in composite loops, only limited by the fly tiers imagination. Watch the video to see for yourself (link included at the end of the materials list).
The trout have given their stamp of approval to this pattern. I’ve tested this fly on
several big rainbows on the Fall River with excellent results. I have been sight casting to fish in shallow water using a hover line, which sinks slowly. As the fly approaches the fish, I have let the fly swing or given short strips to add to the movement of the materials. This beautiful leviathan rainbow took aggressively and ran me around the river for a bit before coming to net.
Experiment with this the composite dubbing loop technique to build your own creative patterns. If you have questions or would like additional information about the SSPT soft hackle, please 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.
Fly shing Central Oregon lakes
By Rynie Miyashiro
The Sunriver Anglers meet on Wednesday, June 4 at SHARC to learn about the myriad of fly fishing opportunities in the lakes in Central Oregon. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. to share fish stories, followed by the meeting from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Shannon Sands of Fly and Field will discuss some of the best lake fishing in the area. He will talk about some of his favorite lakes, when and how to fish them, and the types of equipment and flies he typically uses. You also can pick his brain for steelhead information. Be sure to bring your questions for the latest fishing intel. Here's the bio we received from Sands:
“All things spey and steelhead is my game. My earliest memories are of fishing the Northwest Oregon coastal rivers along with the Sandy and Clackamas rivers while growing up. After college, I moved to Sunriver where I was a golf pro at both the Woodlands and Meadows golf courses while fishing the lakes before and after work especially my favorite lake, Davis. While I loved the golf industry, it really put a damper on my fishing time, and I had to give one up, of course fishing won
the battle.
I started working for the Sunriver Fly Shop for six years and have since been with Fly and Field for four years now. You'll find me on Crane Prairie from May to early July, East Lake with my daughter, but mainly I'll be prowling the waters of any river that has steelhead swimming in it. I would be hard pressed to name a favorite river but the North Umpqua, Deschutes and Bulkley river would be somewhere in my Top 5.”
The Sunriver Anglers typically meet on the first Wednesday of the month at SHARC. Meetings are free for members and the public. Anyone visiting Sunriver who is interested in fly fishing locally are welcome. Doors open 15 minutes before the presentation starts, and we are happy to answer any fishing questions you may have. For additional information, visit sunriveranglers.org.
Morning rallies. Afternoon tee. Dinner for two. Your membership, your way.
The Club at Sunriver Resort offers the most comprehensive members-only club experience in the Pacific Northwest. Offering access to award-winning golf, the most expansive pickleball complex in the region and The Spa at Sunriver Resort, membership is your key to unlocking year-round adventure and recreation right in your backyard.
Save the date for the international Fourth of July picnic
By omas Kinane
As in years past, the only fireworks we expect at this event are the harsh words exchanged over who gets the last brownie. It all happens at the International Fourth of July picnic.
The picnic starts at noon and runs until 4 p.m. on Friday, July 4 at Mary McCallum Park in Sunriver at picnic sites 4 and 5 adjacent to the Deschutes River.
Any and all folks who have lived abroad or would like to meet those who have are in-
vited to enjoy the setting and each other’s company – just look for the international flags strung between the trees. Participants are asked to bring their own table service, drinks and main course (there are no grills available) along with a side dish, salad or dessert to share. There are a few picnic tables to set things out and many people bring their own folding chairs for gathering in small groups to chat and get to know each other. Be sure to bring your 2025 SROA
Member Preference ID card or arrange with someone who has one, in order to open the gate, enter and park inside the park.
Central Oregon is home to many people from throughout the USA, and to those who live or have lived in countries around the world. As expats, veterans or emigrants to the U.S. with a home in the Sunriver area, these are people that have found something special here and bring their unique multicultural knowledge and perspectives with them. Once a
year, we have a chance to gather and share our appreciation for our experiences abroad and in the USA at this annual picnic. We look forward to welcoming new participants every year. This year, we would like to extend a warm welcome to our courageous former or active service personnel who have experienced a tour of duty outside of the continental United States… Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Space Force.
Please leave your politics home for the day. No charge is involved, and no RSVP is necessary.
For information, please contact t_kinane@hotmail.com
Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation: New chief; summer bike patrol
By Jill Stephens, Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation Director
Sunriver welcomed its new Police Chief Pete Rasic on May 1. We spoke with Rasic to learn about his passion for law enforcement, his top priorities for the department, and why Sunriver is where he feels he belongs.
What drew you to law enforcement? Rasic considers himself fortunate because he knew from a young age he wanted to become a police officer. “As the middle child in a large family, I sometimes took on the role of mediator among my siblings to help keep the peace,” he said. “I genuinely enjoy all aspects of police work and the opportunity to serve the community.”
With more than two decades in law enforcement, Rasic brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as a lieutenant with the El Monte Police Department in California.
“Like most officers, I started in patrol, working every day in a highly diverse community for five years. I spent the next 10 years in the K-9 unit – first partnered with my canine partner, Dutch, and later as the program supervisor,” he said.
“That assignment included patrol duties, narcotics detection, and tactical operations with SWAT.”
After his time in K-9, Rasic served as a gang detective, which he described as a high-demand but deeply rewarding role and his first true investigative assignment. He was promoted to sergeant and served in patrol and internal affairs before rising to the rank of lieutenant. As a watch commander, he likened his role to a quarterback – overseeing patrol, investigations, evidence, and even jail operations.
Why the Sunriver area? “I knew from a very young age that I would live in an environment like this and have been waiting for the right time
for my family to make this move. When the chief role was posted a little over two years ago, my youngest had not yet left for college.” He and his wife discussed the idea, but ultimately decided it was not the right time. “So, when the chief position came up again this year, I felt it was the perfect time to make the move and everything fell into place.” Rasic loves living and working in an environment like Central Oregon. “I know this is where I belong.”
What are your priorities for Sunriver Police? “My top priority will always be safety – for both our employees and the community,” Rasic said. “That includes having the right staffing, training,
SUNRIVER TOYHOUSE
and equipment. It also means knowing and working with the community.” When asked about the importance of a healthy work environment, he said, “I want our team to enjoy coming to work every day, not just because they love their jobs, but because they feel supported and are treated fairly. That environment will help attract and retain high-quality officers.”
Why do we sometimes see Sunriver Police patrolling outside of the Sunriver area?
“First and foremost, our priority is always the people and property within Sunriver,” he said. “That said, we do take enforcement action and assist other officers such as the Oregon State Police or Deschutes County Sheriff’s. Periodically patrolling just outside the boundary of Sunriver serves as a deterrent to crime before it enters our community and also provides necessary training for our officers.”
What challenges and opportunities are on the horizon for law enforcement? “One of the biggest challenges in law enforcement across the country right now is recruitment and retention,” Rasic said. “Going back five or six years, law enforcement saw a
sharp decline in staffing due to retirements and difficulties attracting new officers. When I started in police work, most officers committed to the job for their entire careers. Now, many younger professionals treat it as a short-term experience, which creates higher turnover. Police departments are rethinking how they can hire and hold onto employees.” Rasic sees opportunity in programs like the Sunriver Bike Patrol. “It’s a great way for young people to get a feel for policing and can serve as an entry point to becoming a sworn officer.” Rasic sees technology playing an important role. “Technology offers an opportunity for law enforcement, both as a force multiplier and as an incredible safety tool. A great example of this are aerial drones which can provide real-time visual data for officers to assess situations from a safe distance.” Rasic’s unwavering focus on safety came from the tragic loss of two partners killed a few years ago. “I will always prioritize equipment and procedures to help keep our officers safe.”
Bike Patrol triples in size
We spoke with Ashley Stein-
Turn to foundation, page 23
Ashley Steinbrecher is Sunriver’s Community Service Officer.
brecher about her role as Sunriver’s Community Service Officer and this year’s larger bike patrol – which she leads.
“It’s my responsibility to connect the police officers with the community, and our bike patrol is a great way to do this. In fact, bike patrol officers are often the first experience with Sunriver Police that visitors have.” Steinbrecher is thrilled to be running the bike patrol program, having once served on Sunriver’s bike patrol.
“Bike patrol runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day and will include six officers this summer, up from two last year. Our top priority is safety, and a typical busy summer day might see bike patrol assisting in a medical emergency on a pathway or helping find a lost child. Officers are trained in radio use, police codes, and even liaising with 911 when necessary. But officers are also trained to help people navigate our 34 miles of pathways, find needed services or even suggest great spots for ice cream on a hot day.”
Sign up for ‘Self-Defense for Seniors’ class
Saturday, June 14, Sunriver Public Safety Building, 9:30 a.m. to noon
Sponsored by First American Title and Camp Abbot Ace Hardware this class, taught by Police Cpl. Elizabeth Lawrence and acting Capt. Jason Van Meter, will address methods to avoid, deescalate and defend against possible threats and is suitable for all ages and abilities. Other topics covered include situational awareness, mindset, personal defense weapons and relevant Oregon laws, as well as internet safety. Donation of $20 is requested. Sign up by emailing events@srpolicefire foundation.org.
Lawrence has been a police officer for more than 30 years. She developed and supervised the Community Response Team for Bend Police and has held roles as diverse as defensive tactics instructor, drug detective on the DEA Task Force, therapy dog handler and horse patrol.
Van Meter spent more than 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps and USMC Reserve, retiring in 2018. He joined Salem Police in 2004 where he supervised the behavioral health unit, bike team and mobile response team, in addition to being a SWAT team member. He is a qualified defensive tactics instructor and firearms instructor.
Every Thursday 10am-2pm
There’s something for everyone at the Sunriver Resort Farmer’s Market.
Whether you’re stocking up for the week or looking for a special treat, you’ll find high-quality, sustainably grown produce and products made by passionate farmers and producers from the local community. Join us this summer and enjoy the freshest produce, support local businesses, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Join us at The Backyard at The Lodge at Sunriver Resort Thursdays 10am to 2pm, May 22 through August 28
17600 CENTER DR, SUNRIVER
Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation begins third year
By Jill Stephens, Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation Director
As the Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation celebrates its third year, there are a variety of new programs coming by popular request.
Stay healthy with potential classes like “First Aid for Hikers, Bikers and Path-walkers,” “Stop the Bleed,” “Hands-Only CPR” and “Heat Awareness.”
Protect yourself with possible trainings such as “Senior Self Defense,” “Day at the Range,” “Fire Extinguishers 101” and “Skip Scams and Frauds.”
As the foundation finalizes its events, stay updated by emailing events@srpolicefirefoundation.org.
Become a foundation director
Do you feel a calling to help the community while supporting our first responders? The foundation is seeking potential directors who want to bring their talents to the team. Please contact Dennis Dishaw at 818612-0913 or email admin@ srpolicefirefoundation.org.
The success of the foundation and its ability to provides programs to the community and Sunriver’s first responders is largely due to the support our sponsors.
We spoke with Bennington Properties and The Village at Sunriver to learn why they believe sponsoring the foundation is so important.
Bennington Properties
Winner of an “Oregon Top Workplaces” award and the largest organically grown property management company in Sunriver and third largest overall, Bennington Properties has been an important part of the community for 27 years.
“The Bennington Properties story really began in Hawaii, where my parents, Gene and Penny, met and married and where I was born,” Robert Bennington, owner and CEO, explained. “That’s where my family learned ‘ho‘okipa,’ the deeply held Hawaiian attitude toward hospitality and the honoring of guests. Bennington’s mission is to share ho‘okipa through exceptional care for each home and by building meaningful long-term relationships with clients and homeowners.”
When asked about the Top Workplaces award, Bennington said, “We have 40 full-time employees and many seasonal people who are essential to our success. My family and I have worked to develop an employee culture of people who love what they do, and we compensate them for their hard work.”
Bennington himself learned the property management business from the ground up, working his way through each department starting with housekeeping and maintenance.
“I think that’s where I developed my passion for ensuring the cleanliness and care of each
of the 250 homes trusted to Bennington’s management.”
When asked why his company supports Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation, Bennington said the reason is two-fold. “We do it because of the vital role both departments have in Sunriver, from keeping our guests safe to planning for possible evacuations or emergencies. And we do it to honor my mother, who served on the Sunriver Service District board for years.”
The Village at Sunriver
Comprising 17 acres and 45 diverse businesses, The Village at Sunriver is a cornerstone for activities and commerce for the entire community.
“Businesses here include retail, dining, health services, banking, pet services, entertainment and recreational opportunities,” Denease Schiffman, Village Operations Manager for the past 15 years, said. “We feel lucky that several of the businesses have been with The Village for over 30 years and we were pleased to add many new businesses after the redevelopment. We’ve found that residents and visitors alike enjoy the engaging mix of events, recreation, food and shopping available in the Village, making it a memorable destination.
“I’d describe our relationship with both Sunriver Police and Fire Departments as open and harmonious,” Schiffman continued. “They are important
operational resources for the businesses. Officers provide education on theft, how to detect counterfeit bills and just being aware. Sunriver Fire’s paramedics provide rapid responses to any health emergency guests might have. Having a great working relationship with both departments allows The Village tenants to focus on their business operations and customers. Whenever we need assistance,
the departments act quickly and professionally.”
Schiffman said The Village at Sunriver is happy to support the Sunriver Police and Fire Foundation.
“We understand how fortunate the community is to have our own emergency services available, and we want to show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication to the community,” she said.
Sunriver Police hiring officers
The Sunriver Police Department is accepting applications for lateral police officers. Applicants must have a minimum of two years of certified law enforcement experience.
The Sunriver Police Department is a full-service, accredited agency with a strong focus on community partnerships and enhanced customer service. The department includes 12 sworn officers who are supported by the community. Why work with us?
• Supportive leadership and community-focused policing
• Opportunities for professional growth and seasonal specialty assignments
• Access to Sunriver amenities for officers and their families
How to apply
The application can be found at www.sunriversdor.gov. Contact Mindy Holliday at 541585-1400 or mholliday@sun riversd.org with questions.
Book Club selections focus on stories set in the state of Minnesota
By Deon Stonehouse
Every June, we focus on a region, state or city in the USA as a lead up to the Fourth of July. This year, we invite you to join us in reading books set in Minnesota.
The United States is rich in diversity. William Sullivan’s spectacular slide shows on hikes in Oregon, usually ending by showing the diversity of Oregon’s landscape – from some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, to snowcapped mountains, canyons and deserts. Across this land there are many natural wonders: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon, Mount Denali and many others. Other than Native Americans, every one of us has ancestors from elsewhere. The British came for religious freedom, the Irish came to escape a famine, the Chinese came to build our
railroads, and the Vietnamese came to escape retribution for a war. All contributed.
The strength of the U.S. is our diversity of landscape, people and culture. Each state has its own unique aspects.
The Fourth of July celebrates the 1776 Declaration of Independence. It is a holiday celebrated with fireworks, picnics, parades and fun. It is also a holiday with deeper meaning, celebrating the creation of the USA. These fireworks symbolize real explosions, a battle against a much greater foe, and the death of people fighting for freedom.
These words from the Declaration of Independence are just as meaningful today: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these
Teters, Owner
are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”
Our Constitution was written in 1787, 11 years after the USA declared independence. The Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791. As we anticipate the Fourth of July celebration, remember that the USA was established to serve “We the People.”
Book Club selections
Our Book Clubs are reading two interesting books set in Minnesota. Email sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks.com to register to attend a discussion.
• The Mystery Book Club will discuss “Ordinary Grace” by William Kent Krueger at 6 p.m. Monday, June 9 via Zoom and 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 16 in-person at the bookstore.
Thirteen-year-old Frank and his 11-year-old brother Jake spend their days wandering along the river, walking into town to the soda fountain, and playing on the train tracks (an activity not sanctioned by their parents). It is 1961, life is carefree and sweet.
Or is it?
Bobby Coyle was a sweet kid, same age as Frank, a couple days ago he died being run over by a train, a tragic accident.
Or was it?
Frank and Jake are troubled when they overhear adults
talking about Bobby’s demise, speaking of suspicious inconsistencies.
Their father, Frank Drum, was the local preacher, a man who had his own secrets and didn’t like to talk about his experience in World War II. Their mother, Ruth Drum, could sing like an angel. She yearned for more from life than being a preacher’s wife. Her hopes are now pinned on their daughter, Ariel, a talented young musician.
New Bremen, Minnesota will be rocked by more deaths. The safe, idyllic surface will be disturbed by darker forces and Frank’s understanding of his world will mature.
• The Fiction Book Club will discuss “Antelope Woman” by Louise Erdrich at 6 p.m. Monday, June 23 via Zoom and 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 30 at the bookstore in The Village at Sunriver.
In 1988, Erdrich released “Antelope Wife,” a story of grief, ancestors and a suicide with an unintended victim.
Twenty years later, the characters called Erdrich back to tell their story a different way, the resulting book, “Antelope Woman,” is the story that Erdrich believes should have
been told.
Spanning several generations, the story begins with a massacre, a soldier, a baby, and a dog. As it progresses, the fate of the soldier and his victim are entwined through their descendants. Native American life is portrayed with grit, beauty and a touch of magical realism as a unique, clever narrator reveals the clan’s story.
Their fate leads to the day Klaus is enchanted by the Antelope Woman, who he kidnaps and takes to his Minnesota home where more complications ensue. Along the way, there are many fascinating characters (a mother searching for her daughter, devious twins, a good man attached to numbers and others).
Erdrich is a powerful Native American voice and a talented author with her books, “The Night Watchman” winning the Pulitzer Prize and “Round House” earning the National Book Award.
Sunriver Books’ newsletter will feature more titles set in the state of Minnesota.
Sunriver Books & Music is in building 25 in The Village at Sunriver. Call 541-593-2525 or visit www.sunriverbooks. com for information.
May’s books are ‘Ordinary Grace’ by William Kent Krueger and ‘Antelope Woman’ by Louise Erdrich.
Stars light up the summer with Playwright Showcase and auditions
By Megan Steffens
Sunriver Stars Community Theater is kicking off summer with the celebration of young talent at its highly anticipated Children’s Playwright Showcase.
The plays will be performed at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at the Sunriver Nature Center.
The showcase will feature three original plays written and directed by winners of the theater’s Children’s Playwright Contest.
These original plays are bursting with imagination and vibrant energy that only
young voices can provide. They delivera fresh theatrical experience to the audience while empowering youth to step into leadership roles as writers and directors.
It serves as a unique platform for budding playwrights to bring their creativity, curiosity and bold storytelling to the stage.
Each piece will showcase a distinct voice and vision:
• Meltdown: Written and directed by George Hoover and Kieran Kristy-Thompson
• The Drawer: Written and directed by Delaney Boudreau
and Rowan Kristy-Thompson
• The Secrets of the Hidden Book: Written and directed by Morgan Steffens
All three plays share themes of mystery and intrigue. The plays truly show the heart of a new generation of storytellers, delivering surprising stories that linger long after the curtain falls.
Visit www.sunriverstars.org for upcoming ticket reservations. Seating will be limited.
Auditions for Hansel and Gretel
Step into the woods and go
onto the stage as your fairy tale adventure begins here.
Sunriver Stars Community Theater is excited to announce auditions for its upcoming production of Hansel and Gretel.
Auditions will be held at 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 23 at 56835 Venture Lane, room 208 in the Sunriver Business Park. Auditions are open to adults and youth (ages 7 and older) of all experience levels.
This is a great opportunity for performers of all levels to share the stage and collaborate in a truly enchanting produc-
tion.
Whether you’re drawn to the roles of Hansel, Gretel, the witch or one of the many whimsical forest characters, we want to see your creativity shine.
This beloved tale will be brought to life on stage at Sunriver Nature Center on Wednesday, Aug. 20 and Thursday, Aug. 21, with imaginative staging that’s perfect for both youth and adults who love storytelling, theater and a touch of magic.
Visit sunriverstars.org for additional information.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship diaper drive benefits health, safety of children
Sunriver Christian Fellows hip recently held a diaper drive for MountainStar Relief Nursery, collecting more than 50 boxes of diapers and wipes.
With several locations in Central Oregon, MountainStar works to prevent child abuse and neglect by assisting vulnerable families and promoting the health and safety of children in Central Oregon.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship, through its Up Close and Personal committee (UPCAP), is committed to helping nonprofits in the area with their various missions to help those in need.
In 2024, UPCAP disbursed $50,000 to community orga-
nizations including Care and Share.
Another $35,000 was disbursed to various emergency assistance needs and children and youth activities.
The funds are raised through the annual Visions of Sugar Plums fundraiser each November, individual donations, and an allocation from the SCF outreach budget.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship prides itself on its community service and its national and international focus.
Local organizations that have received grants from SCF include The Bethlehem Inn, Care and Share Food Bank, Care for Kids, CASA, Friends of the Children,
Furnish Hope, Grandma's House, Habitat for Humanity
La Pine Sunriver, The Family Access Network (Three Rivers and La Pine School families), MountainStar Relief Nursery, Saving Grace, Shepherd's House, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Trillium, and Volunteers in Medicine.
Other organizations may receive help on a one-time basis for a specific need.
Sunriver Christian Fellowship is located at 18139 Cottonwood Road, across from
the north store. Services are held at 10 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome. Visit www.sunriverchris
tianfellowship.org or call 541-593-1183 for additional information on church programs.
BLM implements seasonal campfire restrictions in managed La Pine areas
To enhance public safety and reduce the risk of wildfires, the Bureau of Land Management is prohibiting campfires on BLM-administered lands in the La Pine area through Oct. 31. This decision is part of an effort to reduce human-caused wildfires that have threatened lives, property and essential utility infrastructure that have increased over the past several seasons.
During recent years, the La Pine area has experienced devastating fires, including one that damaged restoration
efforts from a previous wildfire. Escaped campfires are a significant contributor to these wildfires.
Campfires, charcoal fires and any type of open flame will be prohibited on BLM lands in the La Pine area.
Properly commercially manufactured portable propane campfires, metal camp stoves used for cooking, and shielded lanterns fueled by bottled propane or liquid fuel are the only exceptions. All cooking stoves, portable propane campfires or lanterns must meet UL/CSA
safety standards. These restrictions will apply to BLM-administered lands within the following bound-
aries: South Century Drive on the north, the Fremont-Winema National Forest boundary on the south, and the
Deschutes National Forest on the east and west.
“Public use restrictions are one tool that we use to address repeated human-caused wildfires, particularly when we can identify one specific cause like escaped campfires,” Deschutes Field Manager Lisa Clark said.
The BLM urges all visitors to respect these restrictions to help protect the natural landscape and ensure the safety of everyone who enjoys the beauty of the La Pine area.
For information, visit www. blm.gov
Be summer safe: Oregon parks share seven campfire safety tips
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department joins Oregon Department of Forestry and local, statewide and national partners in recognizing Wildfire Awareness Month.
Campfires are a tradition when visiting Oregon State Parks, and staff encourage visitors to enjoy them safely when and where permitted.
The first step is to check campfire restrictions before you
visit. If campfires are allowed, please follow these safety tips and rangers’ instructions to reduce the risk of wildfires where campfires are allowed.
Seven tips for safe and enjoyable campfires:
1. Check campfire restrictions at Oregon State Parks as well as public fire restrictions statewide.
2. Only build campfires in the existing fire ring in your
campsite. Fire rings are placed in areas with buffer zones and away from vegetation.
3. Maintain campfire flames at or below knee height to reduce the risk of ash and embers drifting into the trees or dry vegetation.
4. Always keep water close to safely put out campfires. Douse the flames with water and stir the embers to make sure everything is wet. The stirring step
is important: ash and wood debris often maintain heat.
5. Build beach campfires only where permitted on open sand and away from driftwood or vegetation. Slowly pour water on your beach fire to put it out. Pouring water too quickly can cause hot sand to fly. Don’t use sand to put out a beach fire, which insulates the coals and keeps them hot enough to burn someone even days later.
Learn about beach fire rules at Oregon State Parks website.
6. For propane fire rings, use in areas without vegetation or overhanging branches. Rules for propane fire rings vary depending on local conditions. Check with park staff.
7. Make sure everyone in your campsite is familiar with campfire safety, including children. Always keep an eye on
your campfire; accidental fires can start even when campers leave their fire unattended for “just a minute.”
Campfire regulations are outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules: https://secure.sos.state. or.us/oard/viewSingleRule. action?ruleVrsnRsn=322968
Education is the top priority for rule enforcement, but rangers also have the option of issuing a Class A violation for violations or for multiple violations with a presumptive fine of up to $400.
Explosives and fireworks are not allowed in state parks or the ocean shore because they pose a danger to visitors, wildlife and the landscape. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas.
Campfires are not allowed on BLM lands in the La Pine area now through Oct. 31.
Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver announces ‘ambitious’ project
By Andrea Hine
More than 50 families have been able to move into new, affordable homes under the auspices of Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver since its founding in 1993 and – upon completion of the nonprofit’s newest workforce housing development – almost three dozen families will be added to that number.
Called “Park View,” the Habitat affiliate’s most ambitious project to date will feature 34 high-efficiency, fire-resistant townhomes in north La Pine. Designed to meet the needs of moderate-income families (60% to 80% of area median income), these three bedroom, two bath homes with attached garages will – according to the official press release – “be part of a Permanent Affordability Model, ensuring long-term access to homeownership in a rapidly growing region.”
Infrastructure construction begins this spring, with the first four homes expected to be completed by fall 2026.
“We’re building hope and sustainability together,” Habitat Executive Director Kim Gammond said, “in line with our commitment to help more families in south Deschutes County achieve the dream
of home ownership, while strengthening their own stability and self-reliance.”
Kevin Eckert, partner and founder of BUILD (the architectural design firm retained by Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver for this project), said Park View will consist of a mix of one- and two-story townhouses in three models for visual variety. Square footage ranges from 1,182 to 1,322 (not including the one-plus car
garage), with fenced back yards, as well as back patios and/or front porches. A generous-size driveway provides two additional parking spaces per lot.
“Reflecting their focus on low-maintenance and low-energy cost, features in the homes
include triple-pane window glazing for increased energy efficiency; ducted heat-pump heating and cooling throughout the home to maximize thermal comfort; and an ERV system that supplies fresh air throughout the home without letting in wildfire smoke,” Eckert said.
“A single envelope color scheme will create cohesion among the townhouses,” he continued, “while warm, honey-colored siding at recessed areas pop against the darker exterior. Drought- and fire-tolerant plantings will enhance biodiversity, support pollinators and provide privacy.”
Eckert said, “high quality and high-performance construction will result in attractive, climate-resilient homes complementary to those in the surrounding neighborhood.”
The process from Park View’s initial concept to the commencement of construction, has taken several years. Gammond credited the City of La Pine – who “was willing to do what needed to be done and
answered all our questions.”
Former board member Dick Arnold added his own accolade.
“Deschutes County has been phenomenal in working with us, with all three commissioners voting to approve our acquisition of land,” Arnold said. “We definitely want to keep that door open in planning for future home building efforts.”
And those efforts are inevitable, as the cost of living in Deschutes County has risen dramatically, while the gap between income levels and housing costs is widening, making it a challenge to find a home.
As Vicki Russell, past board president of Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver and board member for 10-plus years, has observed, “The need is more critical than it has ever been.”
Park View aims to make a dent in that need and make a difference in the lives of the 34 families who will call it home.
–Reprinted with permission from the May 21 edition of Cascade Business News.
Top photo: Park View consists of three bedroom, two bath homes in three models with attached garages. Bottom photo: There will be 34 high-efficiency, fire-resistant townhomes.
COURTESY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF LA PINE SUNRIVER
The Sunriver Service District Managing Board held its regular meeting on May 15, 2025.
Board members present: Jim Fister, John Shoemaker, Bill Hepburn, John Ralston, Denney Kelley and Randy Schneider (SROA board representative/ex-officio).
–Approved SROA invoice in the amount of $6,671.31.
–Approved loan payment to Zions Bank in the amount of $726,744.64.
Old business
SSD staff present: Police Chief Pete Rasic, Deputy Fire Chief Rod Bjorvik, administrator Mindy Holliday, administrative assistant Brittany Fobi.
Public input
–None
–The board acknowledged Peace Officer Memorial Day and thanked those who serve in law enforcement.
Consent Agenda
–Approval of board minutes was tabled to June as they were
• Public Safety Building Updates
–Discussed and waiting to close out final payments with Kirby Nagelhout.
–Still waiting on some materials with final furniture pieces expected arrival by end of May.
–There is a June 1 deadline to meet SROA building permit deadline requirements.
–Approved April 2025 funding requests in the amount of $18,009.18.
–Approved police department conference table cover in
Please donate your cans & bottles!
the amount of $350 from the FFE budget.
• Approved the Sunriver Service District 2025-2029 SSD Strategic Plan. The board thanked director Shoemaker for his work and creating the plan.
• Still awaiting final costs on the new public safety facility to include those numbers into the Reserve Study update.
• The SSD Nominating Committee has five applicants for SSD board seats. Interviews will be conducted in early June and will make final candidate recommendations to the Deschutes County Commissioners.
New business
–Approved chair’s signature on SSD/Sunriver Police Officer’s Association MOU for a budgeted 3% salary adjustment.
–Approved the transfer of $500,000 from fund 715 to fund 717 in FY 24/25 to complete projects for the new public safety facility.
–Reviewed FY25 year-end budget vs. actuals which will
SSD board meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. The next SSD board meeting is June 19 and will be held in the public safety facility conference room.
need to be revised to reflect the $500,000 transfer.
–Chair Fister will conduct the annual performance reviews for the fire chief and district administrator. A review of the new police chief was deferred for a year.
–Discussed secure facility and parking access for SSD board directors. Directors will receive a fob to access certain areas the public safety facility, if needed. It was directed that most business should be conducted during regular business hours.
–Approved April 2025 unaudited financials.
Chief reports Fire
–In April, there 27 calls for the Sunriver Fire Department, which included 17 EMS calls, 6 mutual aid calls, 1 fire calls and 1 structure fire.
–Union negotiations are ongoing.
–Chief Boos and Deputy Chief Rod Bjorvik attended the Oregon State Fire Marshal Defense Board chief meeting in Bend.
–EMS recertification is taking place, and RT130 wildland fire training was completed.
–Crews received in-service training for the new self-contained breathing apparatus and are now on the apparatus.
–Participated in the wildfire preparedness fair at SHARC
and had great community attendance.
Police
–In April, the Sunriver Police Department received 424 calls for service, 30 of which were emergencies. Officers investigated 24 cases, conducted 252 traffic stops, provided 36 community-policing responses, conducted 52 security checks, responded 11 animal and 12 noise complaints. There were 13 arrests and 4 DUII traffic offenses.
–New police chief Pete Rasic started April 28.
–Department reaccreditation is complete and good for three years.
–A lateral officer was hired and started April 16. Two other lateral officer candidates are in background checks. Three posi-
Get ready for awesome weather in June
By Jim Bennett
This is traditionally when our population really begins to take off (temporarily), and we welcome all of our wonderful visitors, friends and family to experience what we already know is the greatest place on earth to live.
For those of us who are residents, you likely know all the rules that have been established to keep our community safe, but if it is your first time here you may not be familiar, so each month during the summer we do a heavy number of reminders. Even for those who have been here since day one of Sunriver (are there some of you?) these are always good reminders.
Talking about open fire is repetitive but you can imagine the damage that can be caused by a spark, a tipped over barbecue, a cigarette or a gust of wind on some hot coals. It can’t be said enough, but it keeps us safe. No charcoal or wood barbecues or firepits, and as we get closer to July 4, a reminder that all fireworks are banned in Sunriver (including safe & sane sparklers, etc.).
We’ve all seen the videos of a discarded cigarette starting a raging inferno, and it is true, those are many times the culprit in disaster. Smoking is only permitted on private property, within a motor vehicle or in areas that are designated for smoking. Be sure to always dispose of your cigarette in an appropriate container and be sure that it is fully out. Never toss a cigarette butt out your car window.
Recreation tips when using paved pathways
Sadly, a fun day of biking on our wonderful bike paths ends up for some people with bumps, bruises and skinned knees, or potentially worse. During the summer months, there can be a lot of activity on these shared trails between bikes, runners and those out for a stroll. Be cautious and aware in front and behind you. The speed limit is 15 MPH, and it is important to follow each of the directional signs on the trails. Class 2 & 3 e-bikes and other electric and/or motorized transportation devices are prohibited with the exception of disability-related devices.
We will talk more about this as the summer progresses and everyone heads to the river to cool down, but water safety is critical on the river and elsewhere in our community. The river is cold, even during the summer months.
It is also fast moving in some areas and there are underwater obstructions. Use caution when entering the river and if floating
in a kayak, canoe, tube or other boat, remember that children under 12 are required by law to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times and every person within a boat must have a PFD available to them.
We mention this every month, but it is important to keep repeating. Have you signed up for Deschutes County and Sunriver emergency alerts? It is easy, go to www.sunriveremergencyinfo. com for details on how to sign up. There is great information on the site about wildfire and evacuation planning.
Since we are into the dry season, and you’ve been reading about it the past couple of months, this is a friendly reminder that your yard should also be prepared for summer.
Forest debris and dead or dangerous shrubs and branches should be removed. Roofs and gutters should also be clear of any forest debris such as pine needles. Make sure no tree branches are overhanging a chimney or up to your roof.
For more information and requirements on removing ladder fuels go to www.sunriv erowners.org/lfr.
Hopefully you didn’t miss it, but April was our first Wildfire Preparedness Fair held at SHARC. It was a great turnout, and participants were provided some important tips and some swag on how to best prepare and protect their home for the hot, dry summer months.
Thank you to our partner agencies and organizations and for everyone who attended.
There are a lot of great resources out there including the two webpages already mentioned. Project Wildfire is another great resource for information on wildfire prevention and preparedness.
For information go to www. projectwildfire.org as well as the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office at www.oregon.gov/osfm/ education/pages/prevent-wild fires.aspx.
Finally, the Forest Service conducted successful prescribed fires around the Sunriver area during the last several weeks. These are important to maintain healthy forests and catastrophic wildfire prevention. While you may see some “burned” areas, rest assured they will bounce back to a vibrant healthy forest look.
Representatives from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office participated in the first Wildfire Preparedness Fair at SHARC.
Sunriver Music Festival tickets on sale June 1
From Aug. 2-13, Sunriver Music Festival presents its 48th season at the Tower Theatre in downtown Bend and the Sunriver Resort Great Hall.
Performances feature worldclass orchestra musicians and renowned soloists, lead by artistic director and conductor Brett Mitchell.
The Festival includes four classical concerts, a pops concert, and a family concert, each with the full Festival Orchestra and featured soloists of great acclaim, plus a solo piano concert.
Tickets are available at www. sunrivermusic.org or call 541593-9310.
Sunriver Music Festival presents free music education events and masterclasses during these two weeks in August. Most orchestra rehearsals are free and open to the public.
Patrons who purchase the full six-concert series of classical concerts, pops and solo concert receive a 10% discount. Tickets start at $45; tickets for ages 25 and younger are $25; and, thanks to the Young Listeners Guild, free tickets are available for ages 17 and younger with the purchase of any regularly priced ticket.
Raise the Baton fundraiser
The Raise the Baton fundraising party is on Saturday, June 21 at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend. Help make the music happen while enjoying performances from Young Artists Scholarship recipients – some
of Central Oregon’s most advanced young musicians. Hosted by maestro Brett Mitchell and emceed by local personalities Dr. Stephen Marshall and Brett Bizik, this is sure to be a fun evening with a silent auction, paddle raise, entertainment and dinner and drinks. Visit sunrivermusic.org today to reserve your seat. The Raise the Baton paddle raise directly funds the Young Artists Scholarships.
Free Concert
The Young Artists Scholarship Concert is 7 p.m. Friday, June 6. Held at Community Bible Church at Sunriver (1 Theater Drive), this free concert is an inspiring hour featuring several of this year’s impressive scholarship recipients.
Summer festival concert schedule
• Opening Classical Concert: A French Soirée
Saturday, Aug. 2, 7:30 p.m. Tower Theatre, Bend 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 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. Benham Hall at SHARC, 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
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 ever-popular 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
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.
Maestro Brett Mitchell will conduct the Sunriver Music Festival’s 48th summer season from Aug. 2-13.
‘Chat with a Chief’ series: Grab a coffee and say hello
Do you have a question about public safety in Sunriver?
Want to share a concern, get to know your local leadership, or just enjoy a good cup of coffee with good company?
The Sunriver Police and Fire
departments are launching a new monthly community event: “Chat with a Chief.”
This is your chance to sit down with Sunriver Police Chief Pete Rasic and Sunriver Fire Chief Bill Boos in an
informal setting to talk about anything from emergency preparedness and public safety to neighborhood questions or to just say hello. No speeches, no presentations – just conversation and coffee.
Whether you’re a long-time resident, a new face in the community, Chief Rasic and Chief Boos look forward to talking with you. Come with questions, ideas or just your favorite coffee.
Chat with a Chief
When: Every second Wednesday of the month Time: 8 to 9 a.m.
Where: Brewed Awakenings in The Village at Sunriver
State fire marshal encourages Oregonians to create fire defensible space
Last year, Oregon had one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in its history – 1.9 million acres burned, communities were tested, and lives were changed.
But amid the devastation, there were also stories of resilience: homes that stood strong because they had defensible space.
May marked Wildfire Awareness Month, but the Oregon State Fire Marshal is urging
Enrollment open for July Vacation Bible School at Community Bible Church
It’s summertime and that means it is time again for the annual Vacation Bible School registration.
The school is open to children who turn 4 years old by Sept. 1 through those entering sixth grade in the fall.
Hosted by Community Bible Church at Sunriver, this year’s theme is “Discover God’s Bigness.”
School dates are Monday, July 14 through Friday, July 18 from 9 a.m. to noon.
Register at www.cbcsunriver. org or call 541-593-8341. Community Bible Church is located at 1 Theater Drive in Sunriver.
We hope your little ones can join in on the fun.
Oregonians there is still time to act. With the possibility of another challenging fire season ahead, preparing your home could make all the difference.
“For the last several years, we’ve been proactively working to boost staffing at local fire agencies, modernizing response equipment, and investing in wildfire resiliency projects across the state,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “But we can’t do it alone. We
need every Oregonian to rise to this challenge. Creating defensible space around your home is one of the most effective ways to protect your property and your community.”
Start with small changes that have a big impact:
• Space and prune trees to prevent fire from climbing into canopies.
• Remove leaves, pine needles, bark mulch, and other debris within 100 feet of structures or
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up to your property line.
• Clean roofs and gutters of flammable debris.
• Move combustible materials – such as mulch and firewood –away from your home.
• Keep plants trimmed and clear of dead material, especially near the house.
• Avoid planting directly under eaves; leave at least a fivefoot buffer.
For a detailed guide on how to create defensible space, check out www.oregondefen siblespace.org.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal – alongside fire service partners – is calling on everyone to get ready, stay aware, and believe in fire safety.
Together, we can reduce wildfire risk and protect what matters most.
Chamber hosts successful Career Exploration Lunch, Sunriver Saturday Market
The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its third annual Career Exploration Lunch on Tuesday, May 6 at SHARC for the middle school students at Three Rivers School and the eighth-grade students at La Pine Middle School.
The lunch provided students with the opportunity to learn about careers they are interested in from architecture and engineering to auto mechanics and public safety. The students rotated to four stations to meet with volunteers to learn about their careers.
“A huge thank you to Three Rivers School counselor Malie Niebergall for all her work preparing the students for the lunch,” Kristine Thomas, chamber executive director,
Kaitlin Baker, on the right, works with Steele Architecture, Interiors and Planning. She shared information about her career with middle school students who were interested in learning about architecture and construction.
said. “I am grateful for everyone who made the lunch possible and provided an opportunity for students to learn what it takes to be successful in a cho-
sen career.”
The lunch was catered by Bowtie Catering and enjoyed by 300 guests, including 240 students and 60 adults.
Let Neil Kelly help you create the perfect space. Now is great time to schedule a complimentary consultation with an awardwinning 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 more, visit: neilkelly.com/consultation, or call 541.382.7580.
Thank you to guest speaker Sam Schmitz, who is the CTE and Health Science teacher at Crook County High School in Prineville. He shared with guests his journey of overcoming challenges and finding his way from high school to graduate school. He was a four-time All-American wrestler and a college coach.
Thank you to the volunteers who shared their knowledge and experience. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Thank you to the following businesses and organizations for their contributions to making the lunch possible: SHARC, Sunriver Owners Association, Century Commons Taps & Trucks, Rotary Club of Sunriver-La Pine, Three Rivers PTA, Sunriver Resort for hosting the Putt-Putt Golf Tournament, Three Rivers School, South County Collaborative and Sunriver Saturday Holiday Market.
Sunriver Saturday Market
Discover more than 40 small business owners selling everything from handcrafted items to food and beverages at the third annual Sunriver Saturday Market.
The market is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 at SHARC.
The market features small businesses located in Central Oregon. Items are locally made or grown from produces, baked goods and beverages to candles, pottery, jewelry, clothing and artwork.
Future market dates are Saturday, July 26, Aug. 30 and Sept. 27.
Thank you to the market’s gold sponsors: Sunriver Brewing, Dream Decks & Remodeling, Bleu Bite Catering, The Credicott Agency, Michele Sciaraffo and Temple Raney of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Northwest Real Estate. Follow the Sunriver Saturday Market on Instagram or visit www.sunriverchamber.com to
Turn to chamber, page 38
Sunriver Resort’s Betty Gray Gallery showcases high desert themed art
By Jim Fister, Helen Brown and Vivian Olsen
Welcome to summer in Sunriver.
The Betty Gray Gallery of Fine Art is continuing its current show through June.
The show will cover both floors of the gallery and will highlight the variety of art that HDAL produces.
Twenty-five years ago, a small group of Central Oregon artists got together to critique their work, discuss the art market, and merely bask in the presence of other creative people.
The artists enjoyed the company and the feedback so much
they decided to meet every month to share their portfolios, provide encouragement and show their work together
locally.
One of their first exhibits was at the Mirror Pond Gallery in downtown Bend, now the Commons Cafe.
Over the next 10 years, they had exhibitions in Portland, Salem, Boise, Ketchum, Anacortes and the Oregon coast.
These twenty-five years later, the High Desert Art League (HDAL) is still going strong.
All the types of art created by HDAL artists are exciting, highly professional, and always varied, ranging from paintings created with oils, pastels, watercolor and acrylics, to encaustics, printmaking and photography.
Their wide array of subjects captures both beautiful sights, and also the unique aura of life in the high desert.
The artists display their art in various exhibits and other venues, as well as with art galleries throughout the region.
In Sunriver, art enthusiasts can view artwork by local artists at the Betty Gray Gallery in the Sunriver Resort Lodge, Artists’ Gallery in The Village at Sunriver and the Nancy McGrath Green Gallery at Sunriver Christian Fellowship, across from the Sunriver Marketplace. Enjoy art and enjoy the summer.
Join volunteers for the annual Deschutes River Cleanup in Sunriver
The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council (UDWC) invites everyone to help us connect with Central Oregonians during the 29th Annual Deschutes River Cleanup.
The cleanup will take place on Saturday, June 28, including along the Deschutes River in Sunriver from the Sunriver Owners Association boat launch to the Canoe Takeout.
The UDWC is launching a large-scale public outreach campaign to raise awareness about responsible recreation on the river and along its trails.
“Recreation in and around the Deschutes River has led to significant impacts to the health of the river,” UDWC Education Director Kolleen Miller said. “This is a chance for the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council and our community to come together and protect our river so that the fish, plants and wildlife that depend on this area can survive and thrive.”
The Annual Deschutes River Cleanup will be occurring at six different sites on the Deschutes River.
Cleanup sites include Sunriver, La Pine State Park, Farewell Bend Park, First Street Trail, Riverbend Park, and Tumalo State Park.
Deschutes River Cleanup
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 28 Where : SROA boat launch and other streamside locations
Registration : www.re storethedeschutes.org
One week prior to the event, registrants will receive an email with specific site details and
meeting logistics.
On the morning of the cleanup on Saturday, June 28, you will meet your volunteer host at 9 a.m. at the site you selected. Please double-check your email to make sure you are going to the correct cleanup location.
We encourage volunteers to come prepared with sturdy shoes, a hat and sun protection, gloves, a water bottle and snacks.
At the cleanup, community volunteers and local businesses will help pull invasive weeds and remove litter from the stream banks and the river itself.
The Deschutes River Cleanup is an important opportunity for community members to come together to steward the
Deschutes River and its riparian areas.
Recreation in and around the Deschutes River has led to significant impacts to the health of the river. Cleanup events help keep our river beautiful and protect water quality for fish and wildlife.
‘Winter Thaw’ by Helen Brown can be viewed at the Betty Gray Gallery at Sunriver Resort Lodge.
As warmer weather finally arrives, the Sunriver Pétanque Club is rolling into summer with twice-weekly play dates at Mary McCallum Park.
Games are held at 1 p.m. Thursday and Sunday through June. Play changes to 10 a.m. in July and August to avoid
the heat.
If temperatures start to cool, play returns to 1 p.m. for September and October.
Pétanque is a French sport dating back to early 20th century with roots traced back to ancient Greece and Rome.
The game can be played one-
Enjoy games, music, food and friendship at the annual Sunriver Community Picnic from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 16 at Mary McCallum Park, near the Sunriver Marina.
The Sunriver Women’s Club organizes this event and invites all residents in the greater Sunriver area and their guests to attend.
Baldy’s Barbeque will serve baby back ribs, smoked chicken or vegetable lasagna.
To round out the meal, there
on-one or in teams of two or three players.
Players take turns throwing metal balls (called “boules”) on a court typically composed of dirt or gravel.
The objective is to roll your boules closest to a smaller, wooden ball (called the “co-
will be barbecue sauce, baked beans, rolls, coleslaw, Caesar salad, watermelon, dessert and nonalcoholic beverages.
Guests may bring their own beverages of choice.
Mingle with friends while playing cornhole, pétanque and horseshoes.
Enjoy dancing or listening to crowd favorites by the band, Heller Highwater.
Special thanks to the Sunriver Owners Association Owner Enrichment Committee for
chonnet”) at the other end of the court.
Once opposing teams have thrown all their boules, the team with the boule closest to the cochonnet wins the round. Extra points are earned if multiple boules of one team are closer than the opposing team’s nearest one.
Those are the basics. The rules are simple and easy to learn. However, there are enough nuances and strategy to keep players engaged and coming back.
If you find yourself intrigued by pétanque, the club has boules available for use, free of charge. Most members start out this
sponsoring the band.
All of this on the scenic shores of the Deschutes River at Mary McCallum Park guarantees a great evening.
Registration and advance online payment of $22 per guest required.
Visit https://sunriverwom ensclub.org/event-6006137 to register.
Registration closes July 7 or when the limit of 200 guests is reached.
way and then purchase their own boules once they decided to keep playing.
Interested in learning more or questions about the club? Email srpetanque@gmail.com or visit the club’s website at www.sunriverpetanque.org for information.
Learn how to play pétanque.
Guests can enjoy food, music and fellowship at annual picnic.
Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club supports
By Lee Haroun
Over the past few months, Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club members have been involved in a project that brings joy to both them and the recipients of their efforts – the annual book giveaway to first graders at Rosland, La Pine Elementary and Three Rivers schools.
This year, the club delivered 150 books to the children.
Rotarian Laurie Henberg leads the club’s participation in the Gift of Literacy program, designed to promote a love of reading among first graders.
Last fall, seven titles (including one in both English and Spanish) were selected by teachers and Deschutes County Public Library staff.
The first-grade teachers at each of the three schools read all the titles to their classes. The youngsters then choose their favorite, and these are purchased by the Rotary Club and delivered, along with a backpack, to the children in the spring. Barnes & Noble helps make the project affordable by giving a significant discount on the bulk orders.
The emphasis on literacy in young children significantly increases their chances of both academic and employment success.
The aims of the program are to encourage children to become life-long readers and to show them how important literacy is for themselves and
for their community. In many cases, this book will be the first to be their own.
Henberg’s Rotary Club in Idaho had a similar project in which members read to children. When she moved to Sunriver, she learned about the Gift of Literacy and in the spring of 2019, the Sunriver-La Pine Rotary Club chose to participate. In the beginning, dictionaries were given to third graders. But as many children began to own cell phones, printed dictionaries became obsolete. She loves the revised program and told me, “It is wonderful and very gratifying to see how excited the children are when they receive their books, almost out of their chairs. It is both gratifying and heartwarming.”
Two members who delivered books in May had very heartwarming experiences. Cheri
dragons and another about beavers being parachuted in boxes that open on landing, done in the 1940s and 1950s to repopulate beavers in rural Idaho. Martinen participates in the program because some children have no books at home and giving them one makes it very special.
“I love giving books to first graders through Rotary because their excitement is contagious. For many of them, it’s the first book that’s truly theirs – and that moment can spark a real love of reading. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference,” Steinhauer said.
Martinen and Jami Steinhauer each delivered a book to their own child, a particularly bonding moment for both mothers and children.
Martinen enjoyed seeing the variety of titles chosen this year, ranging from a boo k about
School-board member and Rotarian Shirley Olsen joined the group because “the kids are very excited because it’s forever and forever. It’s a big deal for the children.”
She added that, “Rotary is committed to provide services
to our community. This is one way we promote Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self by helping children value reading and education.”
This project is one of many supported by our local Rotary Club. Others include Highway 97 road clean-up, poinsettias for seniors during the winter holidays, college and vocational school scholarships for La Pine High School seniors, and grants to south county nonprofits. Learn more about Rotary If you are interested in making a positive contribution to our community while meeting weekly with friends and neighbors and enjoying breakfast and interesting presentations, please attend one of our meetings held the first three Wednesdays of the month at 7:30 a.m. in the Hearth Room at the Sunriver Lodge. Visit the www.sunriv er-lapinerotary.org for info.
First-grade students at Rosland, La Pine and Three Rivers schools received books, thanks to the Sunriver-La Pine Rotary.
tions remain open at this time.
–Bike Patrol has hired six officers and are undergoing training. They will be ready to roll starting Memorial weekend.
Administration
–Finalized the FY 2025-2026 budget and submitted it to Deschutes County.
–Attended the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners meeting to obtain approval for a Fund 717 FY24-25 budget adjustment.
–Worked with staff to launch a police department lateral recruitment campaign to attract experienced officers.
–Took part in labor contract negotiations for both fire and police departments.
–Brittany has been upload-
ing meeting videos to keep the digital archives current and accessible. Making considerable effort to update the website and social media on a regular basis.
–Updated the SSD website to have fillable board application form.
Relaunched the “Chat with a Chief,” scheduled for the 8 a.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at Brewed Awakenings.
Other business
–Dana Whitehurst will “officially” retire (again) on June 5.
–The meeting adjourned at 3 p.m.
–The next regular meeting of the Sunriver Service District Managing Board is scheduled for 1 p.m. Thursday, June 19.
Approved meeting minutes are posted, as available, at www. sunriversd.org.
learn more about the market and vendors. Welcome new members
The Sunriver Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates its new members by featuring stories in the Sunriver Scene, and the chamber’s website, social media and weekly Monday newsletter.
If you are interested in learning the many benefits of becoming a chamber member, please email exec@sunriverchamber. com.
New location for Wild Lines Tattoo
Sunriver’s first tattoo studio has moved to a new location in Sunriver.
Wild Lines Tattoo first opened Aug. 22, 2022 in the Sunriver Business Park. It’s now located in Two Country Mall, 57195 Beaver Dr. Suite I, above Blondie’s Pizza and Dunn Up Salon.
Operated by owner Eva Marie Wild, Wild Lines Tattoo has continued to grow its following with locals and vacationers.
Wild Lines Tattoo is open for walk-ins. If the open sign is on,
come on in.
Wild’s styles are neo-traditional, fine line, semi-realism, black and gray and watercolor. Find her work on Facebook or Instagram at Wild.Lines.Tattoo. Email WildLinesTattoo@ outlook.com or call or text 541797-9869 for appointments. Alpha-Lit Bend
Alpha-Lit Bend specializes in lighting up events big and small with the highest quality marquee letters, numbers and symbols. Their letters are made in the U.S., and the font is exclusive only to Alpha-Lit Marquee Letters.
Alpha Lit is a nationwide company, but each location is individually owned and operated. Their letters are three feet tall, and the numbers are four feet tall. They are the perfect way to fully customize any event from weddings, birthdays, corporate events and more. If you can spell it, they can light it up. They will deliver, set up and break down after the party is over. They can’t wait to light up your next event. Visit www. alphalitletters.com/bend to learn more.
La Pine Community Kitchen
La Pine Community Kitchen
is a registered nonprofit organization providing assistance services to our community in Deschutes, Klamath and Lake counties. The organization can help meet the needs of those experiencing hunger and lack of resources by providing free food, clothing and hygiene items.
The La Pine Community Kitchen provides a free nutritious meal, every weekday, in a safe and caring environment. We are an inclusive organization where everyone is welcome.
To accomplish their mission, they offers three distinct programs:
• The Kitchen: Freshly prepared, nutritious meals are available to all individuals to dine in or take out five days a week, Monday through Friday.
• The Food Pantry: Open Tuesdays and Fridays for in-person shopping. Closed on the third Friday and open the following Saturday of every month.
• The Clothes Closet: Provides free clothing and personal hygiene items.
Visit www.lapinecommu nitykitchen.org for additional information.
OKTOBERFEST SUNRIVER
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
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
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
COCHRAN
NEED DECK WORK?
Deck refinishing, Deck rebuilding, Enclosures, General contracting, licensed, bonded, insured since 1992 Tubs Alive, Inc. CCB #97643, 541-593-5163
AUTO EARTH KT PETCARE
LIGHTS ON ELECTRIC, LLC
Everything electrical and appliances! No job is too small!!
New customer discount of 15%! Call today at 541-815-3734
FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
Stop in Wild Poppy Florist for custom arrangements. We also carry locally-made gifts. Delivery available to Sunriver, Three Rivers, Bend and La Pine. Call 541-593-2027 or online at www.bendoregonflorist.com
Thank you for your support!
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 AUTO TURNER
WOOD DECK RESTORATION
Fischer & Stone Construction (CCB#189631).
Cleaning, Sanding, painting/ staining, repair, composite deck cleaning, etc. Call for free estimate 541-815-7750 or 541-390-2680.
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.
Ryan Carroll 541-420-0675
ryancarrollconstruction.com
CCB #193727
Reliable pet care you can trust! Bonded and insured. Services include: overnight care, drop-in visits, exercising, farm/house sitting and more! (608) 921-4765
HANDYMAN SERVICES
No job too small or too big. Fisher & Stone Construction LLC. 541-3902680 or 541-815-7750. CCB#189631 AUTO
CLASSIFIED AD RATES
$18/month for 25 words .50 cents/word after 25 Deadline: 12th of the month Email: sunriverscene@srowners.org
BRIDGEPORT CONSTRUCTION
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 458-206-8855
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
FOR RENT
Horse stall/paddock, round corral, beautiful trails, riding buddies, feed 3x a day, YOU supply feed, close to Sunriver, call 541-771-2812
Hot tub, deck repair and refinishing, sales, installation, inspections and maintenance in Sunriver since1992! 541-593-5163
www.tubsalive.com
License #97643, bonded, insured.
AUTO 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
ALL FAZE CONSTRUCTION, LLC
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
