The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLIX No. 28 // 2026-07-15

The Nugget

Quilt Show is a community showpiece for Sisters

By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Sisters puts on its most festivals colorful attire each year for the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show.

Thousands of quilters (and art appreciators) stroll the streets taking in the colorful display of quilts on downtown buildings. Some just soak in the color, some examine the quilts in detail, with they eye of serious crafters. They shop in local retail establishments, and dine at local eateries, and they rest in the shade and listen to buskers wielding everything from ukuleles to saxophones.

Sisters also shows its best self in the way the community welcomes these enthusiasts — and makes the event possible. Dozens of volunteers hang, protect, and remove the quilts, provide information and generally facilitate the fun. Weeks and months of work go into the main event. And sometimes things happen that aren’t seen, but represent the true nature of the town.

UGB in second round of hearings

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

The second public hearing by the Deschutes County Planning Commission on the City of Sisters Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) Amendment application was conducted July 9. The hearing was continued to August 27 to review additional text amendments to Deschutes County documents.

The decision to continue the public hearing into August will not impact the January 2027 deadline. However, if the County Planning Commission

Firefighters handled the challenge of installing quilts high on the Stitchin’ Post wall for the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show on Saturday.

Above and beyond Amy Miller hails from Hillsdale, Michigan. She’s come to the Quilt Show three

Does Sisters have enough water?

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Will Sisters run out of water?

That question isn’t as strange as it may sound upon first reading. With all the talk this summer about record drought and some news stories about wells petering out, low river and stream flows, low snow pack, and another 700 settlers expected in the next five years, it’s reasonable to ask.

The short answer is no. We may experience scarcity in a number of things — beef, rare earth minerals, cheap gas — but water isn’t among them. To the contrary.

See WATER on page 19

times, and started quilts in classes at the week-long Quilter’s Affair leading up to the big show.

“John [her husband] has walked with me, and he said, ‘you really should put your quilts in the show.’”

So she did. She finished two quilts started here, and

See QUILT SHOW on page 14

E-bikes add to urgency of helmet use

By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Medical researchers and safety agencies increasingly point to helmets as the single most effective piece of protective equipment available to cyclists. As e-bikes grow in popularity and riders travel faster than ever before, trauma specialists report a corresponding rise in serious head injuries.

Studies consistently show that a properly fitted helmet can dramatically reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury and fatal head trauma, injuries that can alter or end a life in an instant.

The evidence is not subtle. A major meta-analysis reviewing 55 studies found that bicycle helmets reduce head injuries by 48 percent, serious head injuries by 60 percent, and traumatic brain injuries by 53 percent. The American Academy

of Pediatrics cites research showing even larger protective effects, reductions of roughly 85 percent for head injuries and 88 percent for brain injuries.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concludes that properly fitted helmets are among the most effective safety interventions available

to cyclists of any age. What helmets do not do is prevent crashes. What they demonstrably do is change outcomes when crashes happen and those outcomes can mean the difference between a full recovery and permanent disability.

“Unlike a broken bone,

OPINION

Letters to the Editor…

The Nugget welcomes contributions from its readers, which must include the writer’s name, address, and phone number. Letters to the Editor is an open forum for the community and contains unsolicited opinions not necessarily shared by the Editor. The Nugget reserves the right to edit, omit, respond, or ask for a response to letters submitted to the Editor. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. Unpublished items are not acknowledged or returned. The deadline for all letters is 10 a.m. Monday.

Mentorship works

To the Editor: Congratulations to Circle of Friends on 15 years of changing the lives of children in our community. Building healthy, resilient youth takes dedication, and Circle of Friends has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to that mission through the power of mentoring.

A heartfelt thank you to the 74 volunteer mentors who have served more than 100 youth over the years. Your time, compassion, and commitment are what make lasting change possible in the lives of young people.

We’re also deeply grateful to the generous community members, businesses, and

sponsors whose support has made this work possible. Together, you are helping create brighter futures for the children we serve.

It’s not too late to be part of this special celebration! Join us this Saturday, July 18, at 5:30 p.m. at FivePine Lodge for Changing Futures as we celebrate 15 years of impact and look ahead to the future. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit the Circle of Friends website at: circleoffriendsoregon.org.

And it’s never too late to become a mentor!

Debbie Newport Board Member, Circle of Friends

See LETTERS on page 12

Sisters Weather Forecast

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Editor in Chief & Co-owner: Jim Cornelius, editor@nuggetnews.com

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Reflections on 250 years

By Kellen Klein Guest Columnist

On July 4, 1776, in the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Second Continental Congress of the Thirteen Colonies of Great Britain unanimously ratified the Declaration of Independence. The document formally declared their independence from Great Britain on political, moral, and legal grounds, and justified their right to revolution.

On July 6, the Declaration was first published by The Pennsylvania Evening Post. But in 1776, there was no internet or television capable of instantly reaching every community. Many people couldn’t even read. So for most Americans, the concept of independence would only become real once someone stood before a crowd and read those words aloud. So two days later, on July 8 at noon sharp, the Declaration was simultaneously read to the general public for the first time at three previously designated locations: Trenton, New Jersey; Easton, Pennsylvania; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Those first public readings transformed a written document into a shared civic experience. Neighbors stood together, listened together, and wrestled together with a bold and uncertain idea: that legitimate government derives its authority from the consent of the governed, and that the people themselves bear responsibility for protecting liberty.

At the same time, reading the Declaration honestly means recognizing its historical context. It was written in a particular moment, by imperfect human beings living in an imperfect society. Many of the ideals it proclaimed were not fully extended to women, enslaved people, Indigenous peoples, or many others living in America at the time. Some of its grievances read almost as propaganda, reflecting the immediate political conflicts of 1776, and perhaps not carrying the same relevance today.

That does not diminish the importance of the document. If anything, it reminds us that democracy has always been a work in progress. Each generation has been challenged to ask whether we are living up to the principles we inherited and to expand the promise of liberty and equality more fully than the generations before us.

The Declaration is not our Constitution. It does not establish our government or define our laws. Instead, it expresses our national aspirations. It asks a simple but enduring question: What principles should guide a free people?

That question remains as relevant now as it was in 1776. Whatever our backgrounds, beliefs, or political perspectives, we share responsibility for the health of our communities and our democracy. Reading the Declaration’s words together, publicly, was an opportunity to remind us all that citizenship is not something that happens only in Washington, D.C. It happens in places like Sisters – where neighbors can gather, listen, reflect, disagree respectfully, and continue the unfinished work of building a more perfect union.

Last Wednesday, Citizens4 Community gathered local elected officials, community leaders, veterans, and youth in Sisters’ Fir Street Park to do something remarkably similar. As part of a nationwide event called Sharing the Spirit of America, we joined communities across the country for a simultaneous public reading of the Declaration, at roughly the same time as Americans did on that day a quarter millennium ago. It was a chance not simply to remember history, but to participate in it.

Longtime Sisters resident Maggie Bull gathered with four generations of family and many friends at Sisters Saloon to celebrate her 98th birthday. Dry Canyon Stampede played country music for dancers young and old.

PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS

The Declaration is one of the most influential political documents ever written. Its opening principles — that all people are created equal and possess inherent rights — have inspired generations far beyond the American Revolution. Those words have been invoked by abolitionists seeking the end of slavery, by suffragists demanding the right to vote, by civil rights leaders confronting segregation, and by countless people around the world pursuing freedom and self-government.

That is why — despite our country being much bigger, more diverse, and more complex than it was in 1776 — we gathered last Wednesday to do what Americans first did 250 years ago. We gathered not because we all see the world the same way, but because of a shared commitment to hear the Declaration’s words, reflect on their meaning, and carry forward the conversation they began. Our hope is that the event provides members of our community with an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past; celebrate our rich history and shared values; and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

Sincere thanks to all those who took part in this special event, especially our 13 readers.

COMMUNITY

Sisters reads Declaration in national event

Across the nation at 6 p.m. eastern time (3 p.m. PST) on Wednesday, July 8, communities gathered to publicly read the Declaration of Independence. The national commemorative event marked the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the document that proclaimed “That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States.”

Citizens4Community organized Sisters’ reading of the Declaration of Independence at Fir Street Park, with 13 representatives of the Sisters community each reading a

brief portion of the document. Sisters’ “Flag Man” Earl Schroeder provided a “Betsy Ross” flag — with 13 stars in a circle and 13 stripes — for the event held on the Songbird Stage at the park.

C4C Executive Director Kellen Klein provided background and historical context for the event, noting that a public reading of the Declaration of Independence was the most effective way that the momentous content of the document could be conveyed widely in 1776.

“Those first public readings transformed a written document into a shared

civic experience,” he reflected. “Neighbors stood together, listened together, and wrestled together with a bold and uncertain idea: that legitimate government derives its authority from the consent of the governed, and that the people themselves bear responsibility for protecting liberty.”

That sense of shared civic experience was a key element of the national recreation of that moment 250 years to the date later. (See Klein’s thoughts on the event on page 2.)

The 13 readers represented a broad cross section

City snapshot — C4C, landscaping, public art

By Susan Cobb

The City of Sisters employees will be making visible progress on the fire mitigation landscaping project around City Hall, Citizens4Community (C4C) makes “good news,” and the Mayor has appointed the City of Sisters first Public Art Advisory Board (PAAB).

Sisters City Council is currently on summer recess until their next Council meeting August 12.

In the workshop of July 8, Public Works Operations Manager Jackson Dumanch reported that the fire- and water-wise design plans for

the landscaping around City Hall are complete, and the implementation will substantially reduce the sites’ water usage and improve fire resistance around City Hall. Zero to five feet from the City Hall structure will not have vegetation and five to 30 feet will include an array of drought- and fireresistant indigenous flora, dry creek beds, and crushed rock pedestrian paths.

Dumanch added that after completing the landscaping, the project may embark on a second phase to add educational signs about the intent of each fire mitigation

Preserve reopens after fire rehab

One of the areas burned over by last year’s Flat Fire is once again accessible to the public.

The Deschutes Land Trust announced that Whychus Canyon Preserve is officially reopen as of July 6. Visitors are welcome back at the Preserve to explore.

The Land Trust advises that when you visit, keep the following in mind:

• You are visiting a burned area with hazards present.

• Potential hazards include, but are not

SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR

BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS

Al -Anon

Mon., noon, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-610 -7383. Alcoholics Anonymous

Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of t he Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,G entlemen’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Thursday, noon, Sober Sisters Women’s meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church Thursday, 7 p.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration • Fr iday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 5 41-5 48 -0 440. Saturday, 8 a.m., Episc opal Church of the Transf iguration • Sunday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration Central Oregon F ly Tyers Guild

For Saturday meeting dates and loc ation, email: steelef ly@msn.c om Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@cotamtb.com for info. Ci tizens4Communit y C ommunity Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of ever y mont h, 10 to 11:30 a.m. V isit citizens 4c ommunity.c om for loc ation.

Council on Aging of Cen tral O regon

Senior Lunch In- person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grab -and -go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs

12:3 0 to 1 p.m. Sisters C ommunity Church. 5 41-4 8 0-18 43

East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September- June), Stitchin’ Post . A ll are welcome. 5 41-5 49 -6 061.

Go Fish Fishing G roup 3rd Monday, 7 p.m., Siste rs C ommunity Church. 5 41-771-2 211.

Hear twarmers (f leec e blanketmaker s) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Siste rs Communit y Church. M ater ials provided. 541- 408 -8 505.

Hero Q uilters of Sisters Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. 5 41-6 68 -1755

Living Well W ith Dementia Sisters

Care Par tner Suppor t Group. 2nd & 4th

Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Siste rs Community Recreation Center. 5 41-588 -0547.

Mili tary Parent s of Sisters Meetings are held quarter ly; please c all 5 41-388 -9 013.

Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesda ys, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 5 41-5 49 -6 469.

Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., m eeting by Zoom. 503- 93 0- 6158

Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:3 0 p.m., at Sisters Communit y Church. 5 41-5 49 -6157.

Sisters Area Woodworkers First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 5 41-231-18 97

Sisters Bridge C lub Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters C ommunity Church. Email sistersb ridge2021@gmail.com.

Sisters Caregi ver Suppor t G roup 2nd & 4t h Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Siste rs Rec. Communit y Center. 5 41-588 -0547. (Meets with Living W ell With Dementia Sisters)

Sisters Cribbage C lub Wednesdays, 11 a.m. at T he Lodge, 411 E. Car penter L ane. 5 09 -9 47-574 4.

Sisters Garden C lub For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com.

Sisters Habitat for Humanit y Board of D irectors 4th Tuesday, 4:3 0 p.m.

Location infor mation: 5 41-5 49 -1193.

Sisters Kiwanis 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:3 0 a.m. to 1 p.m., at SPR D in Sisters 541- 632- 3663

Sisters Parent Teacher Communit y 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Element ar y School Commons. 9 17-219 -8298

Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon to 1 p.m., at SPR D. 5 41-760 -5 64 5.

Sisters Veterans no- host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Rest aurant. All veterans welcome, 5 41-241-6 56 3.

Sisters Trail s Alliance Board M eetings take p lac e every other month, 5 p.m. In -person or zoom. Contact: info@ sisterstrails.org.

Songwriters Sharing Circl e All ages welcome. 2nd Wednesday 6 p.m., at The Hub, 5 41-977-8 49 4.

Three Sister s Irrigation Distric t Board of D irectors M eets 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSID Off ic e. 5 41-9 03 -405 0.

Three Sister s Lions Club 3rd Thursday, 6:3 0 p.m., Spoons Rest aurant. 5 41-410 -739 0.

VF W Post 813 8 and A merican Legion Post 8 6 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., The Hub, 291 E. M ain Ave. sistersveterans@gmail. com.

SCHOOLS

Black But te School Boa rd of D irectors 2nd Tuesday, 3:3 0 p.m. 5 41-595 -6203. See schedule www.blackbutte.k12.or.us/

Sisters School District Board of Directors O ne Wednesday m onthly, Sisters School District Administr ation Building. See schedule at www.ssd 6.org. 541- 549-8 521 x5 002.

limited to: falling trees, falling rocks, flash flooding, and debris flows.

• Portions of roads/trails may become damaged or blocked.

• The Land Trust recommend not visiting during storms or windy weather due to these hazards.

Stay on the trail to help the soils and vegetation recover from the fire and to avoid hazard trees.

“It’s also important to note that cheatgrass (a

CITY & PARKS

Sisters Ci ty Council 2nd & 4t h Wednesday, 6:3 0 p.m., Siste rs Cit y Hall 541- 549- 6022

Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Direc tors 2nd Tues., 4 p.m., Sisters Communit y Recreation C enter. 541- 549-20 91

Sisters Planning Commission 3rd

FIRE & POLICE

Black

3rd Wed., 5:3

Rd.

-4 815. c

6743 3

Sister s- Camp She rman RFPD Board of Direc tors 3rd Tuesday 9 a.m., Siste rs Fire Hall, 5 41-5 49 -0771. Sister s- Camp She rman RFPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Siste rs Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 5 41-5 49 -0771.

Outlaw to play college baseball

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

Trent Gordon never imagined he’d have the opportunity to play baseball after high school, but after Head Coach Tevin Cadola from the College of the Siskiyous saw him pitch in a tournament in Medford over spring break, Gordon didn’t have to imagine anymore — he was getting the opportunity he’d never expected.

Gordon started playing baseball from as far back as he can remember, playing with his mom in the backyard with a big red wiffle ball bat, and he never quit swinging. Trent played all through high school, and was the starting pitcher his sophomore, junior, and senior year, and in addition played at first base when he wasn’t on the mound.

Over the course of his high school career the team made the playoffs all four years, and were league champs his sophomore and junior years. Baseball earned him several accolades, including second team all conference pitcher his sophomore year, and second team first base his junior year. His junior year he also did an amazing job on the mound as well, pitching with an ERA of .22 in league and .77 on the season. His senior year he was named first team all league pitcher and earned third team all state.

Gordon told The Nugget he felt that after high school college baseball was “out of the cards,” but the tournament in Medford changed all that. Coach Cadola saw him pitch and went up to Sisters Outlaws Head Coach Matt Hilgers, and said he wanted his starter and needed to know who he was.

From there, Cadola reached out to Gordon via text and told him he was super interested in him, asked if he’d come and play

for them, and told him he’d make a big impact on the team.

Gordon visited the campus in early May and told The Nugget he was impressed by the team, liked Coach Cadola, and knew right away he couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

Coach Hilgers had high praise for Gordon.

“Trent is a great kid and teammate,” said Hilgers. “I think he will see success as he goes down to Siskiyous. He is the type of kid that wants to get better and continues to work hard at it.

I can see him making an instant impact on that team. Beyond baseball he is a great human. He is always going out of his way to help others and I consistently found him helping younger kids on the team as well as youth throughout the community.”

While at college, Gordon plans to pursue a degree in finance, but stated he plans to have a career as a pilot. He took classes with aviation

teacher Sheryl Yeager at Sisters High School, and also went out on his own and hired a flight instructor whom he’s been working with the past two years. He has 70 flight hours under his belt, and is working toward 80–100 hours. On August 7, he is scheduled to take the test to get his pilot’s license. Passing the test will be the first of several steps towards getting his commercial license.

“I’ve always known I wanted to be a pilot, and when I was little my parents would take me to the airport to watch the planes so I’d stop crying,” Gordon said with a grin. “My goal is to fly commercial and I really want to fly bush planes in Alaska or cargo/tourism planes in Hawaii.”

Gordon will head to Weed, California, and become an Eagle this fall.

“I’m excited for school and to get the grind going on baseball and see how far it takes me,” said Gordon.

Hernandez signs with Bushnell to play Volleyball

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

Malia Hernandez moved to Central Oregon in 2020, after being born and raised in Santa Clarita, California. She started playing volleyball in the eighth grade for Trinity Lutheran, where she played every position on the court, but mainly at libero. Her senior year, she transferred to Sisters and played for the Lady Outlaws as a defensive specialist.

The Outlaws were crowned league champs her senior year and advanced to the state tournament, but unfortunately lost early.

In addition to playing for the Lady Outlaws, Hernandez also played club ball for COVC (Central Oregon Volleyball Club) for five years, where the team earned a second-place finish at regionals her junior year.

Bushnell University coaches had seen Hernandez play in several club tournaments and had been in contact with her via email. Soon coaches asked if they could phone her and talk about next steps. That turned into an official visit and practice, and an offer soon followed.

“I love Bushnell, their team culture, my teammates, the small classes, and the community,” said Hernandez. “I am very excited to play at the next level and with high competition. I love high pressure situations and being pushed to the limit.”

Hernandez will have her first practice with the Beacons on August 3, and play in her first collegiate game as a defensive specialist/libero on August 10. Hernandez plans to major in Elementary Education, and after college plans to be a teacher.

Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at The Hub (291 E. Main Ave., Sisters) Samples and demonstrations will be given. Painting will be in tempera on large pieces of black roofing paper. All materials provided. Bring your own lunch. $150. Contact Paul at pbennett3@gmail.com or 541-588-0156 for more details or to register

Volunteers launch mental health support group

A new, free, peer - led National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) mental health support group launching in Sisters on July 23.

The NAMI Peer Support Group will meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Forage Wellness Collective, 392 W. Main Ave., No. 102 in Sisters.

The support group is geared toward adults (18 and older) with lived experience of mental health challenges. Peer- led NAMI Connection groups are confidential, structured, and free. Local Sisters volunteers are leading the effort, and Forage Wellness Collective has agreed to host.

The NAMI Sisters mental health fair drew interest in ongoing support. Volunteers and a local therapy office rallied after the fair to start this group, to help meet the local Sisters desire for this type of group.

According to NAMI volunteers, Sisters has been asking for more accessible mental - health supports; rural communities often face income challenges, long travel distances, provider shortages, and stigma that keeps people from seeking help.

PRESERVE: Land Trust offers thanks for patience

Continued from page 3

nonnative weed) at the Preserve is thriving, as expected, after the fire,” the Land Trust noted in a newsletter. “Please help us avoid spreading it by wearing long pants and boots that don’t collect and spread seeds.”

Land Trust staff offered “any thanks for your patience as we worked to address fire recovery needs since the Flat Fire burned through the Preserve in August 2025. We anticipate more trail work and other recovery efforts to continue in the coming months. Thank you to our partners at the Bureau of Land Management for their help clearing hazard trees, and to our awesome Trail Stewards for their help clearing and repairing trails!”

Quilts of Valor honors Sisters veterans

In what has become a moving annual tradition, attendees at the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show gathered on Hood Avenue on Saturday morning, July 11, for the presentation of two Quilts of Valor to two Sisters veterans.

Jeff Omodt and Wendell Halterman each were wrapped in the quilt made for them and donated by the Salem chapter of Quilts of Valor. Both men were caught by surprise by the honor, and deeply moved.

Omodt, a Vietnam War era Air Force veteran, noted that while veterans are often acknowledged for service and sacrifice, there is another aspect that should be noted:

“I think what we miss most is the families,” he said.

Halterman served as a machinist in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam. He expressed his gratitude for the quilt.

A representative of the Salem chapter of Quilts of Valor explained the history of the program, which has made 450,952 quilts for veterans since its inception in 2003.

The program was inspired by a woman who had a dream about her son, deployed to Iraq during the Global War on Terror. In the dream, her son was sitting on the edge of a cot, troubled, and “she

could see his war demons surrounding him, dragging him down.” Then she saw an angel wrap a quilt around his shoulders.

“It was like a comforting thing to have this quilt wrapped around his shoulders,” said the Quilts of Valor representative.

In that spirit, thousands of quilters across the nation have made quilts for military service members and veterans — and their

Climber dies in Mt. Washington fall

A Nevada man died in a fall while climbing Mt. Washington last week.

According to Undersheriff Micah Smith, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office was notified at about 3 p.m. on July 9 of a missing climber on Mount Washington.

Robert “Bob” Pickering, age 77 of Nevada, was last seen ascending solo near the summit. A climbing guide that was leading clients on the mountain nearby reported hearing a rockslide on the east side of the summit shortly after seeing Pickering pass their location.

Linn County Search and Rescue Team, along with the U.S. Forest Service, responded to the remote area while a helicopter from the Oregon Army National Guard conducted an aerial search. At approximately 5:30 p.m., the helicopter crew located an individual matching Pickering’s description approximately 200 feet below the summit. It appeared Pickering suffered a fatal fall from near the summit to where he came to rest, and due to steep and hazardous terrain, rescue crews were unable to safely approach for recovery that evening.

On the morning of July 10, Linn County Search and Rescue, along with Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Mountain Rescue Unit, launched recovery operations.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (Nevada), the Oregon Army National Guard, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management assisted in the operation.

Obituaries

Robert Duane Rossio

February 20, 1929 — March 19, 2026

Robert Duane Rossio was born February 20, 1929, in Morris, Illinois, and died March 19, in Bend, from complications due to cancer.

Bob’s humor, natural curiosity, friendliness, and genuine interest in connecting with other people served him well. He consistently expressed the wit, irreverence, and healthy refusal to take himself too seriously that were his personality trademarks.

He was raised by a close-knit, extended family in the small rural village of Seneca, Illinois. Traditional Sunday dinners at his grandparents’ farm fostered his lifelong predilection for entertaining. He was a most gracious and generous host, and loved serving delicious food and tasty drinks to family, friends, and work colleagues!

At the tail end of World War II he enlisted in the U.S. Navy (age 16), and served four years as a radioman on an oil tanker in the Middle East, delivering oil to U.S. bases up and down the Red Sea. After an honorable discharge, he attended Illinois College on the GI Bill, where he met his first wife, Johan. They married in 1953 and had two children, Carol and Rob. The family moved often as Bob pursued a career in food processing. He worked for Libby, McNeill & Libby, California Canners and Growers, and in 1978 they moved to Visalia, California, where he served as CEO and President for Lindsay Olives.

Bob enjoyed sailing, traveling, playing golf, fly fishing, painting & drawing, and was a passionate student of history and genealogy.

In early retirement, he and Johan lived part time

in Neskowin, Oregon, to be close to family. After Johan died of cancer in 1998, he then married Harriet Oslund in 2000. They became longtime homeowners and members of Aspen Lakes, where they lived until the end of their lives.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Carol Rossio; his daughter-in-law, Pam Rossio; his grandchildren, Hilary Rossio, Hannah Rossio Bateman, her husband Bryce Bateman, and great-grandchildren June and Elliott Bateman. He was preceded in death by his first wife Johan Donald Rossio, and his son Robert Kent Rossio. Bob’s second wife Harriet Oslund Rossio passed away on April 19, 2026, so they were together until the end.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Aspen Lakes Golf Club in Sisters on July 18, at 2 p.m. The family invites all who knew him to attend and share favorite memories. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to nonprofits serving U.S. veterans.

Colleen Virginia (Campbell) Haynes

March 5, 1947 – July 6, 2026

Colleen Virginia (Campbell) Haynes, 79, of Prineville, passed away peacefully on July 6, of natural causes, surrounded by the love of her family.

Colleen was born on March 5, 1947, in Bend, and grew up on the Black Butte Ranch outside of Sisters. She was a cowgirl from the moment she came into this world, practically on horseback before she could walk. By nine months old, she was already riding horses alongside her family on the ranch. She attended school in Sisters before going on to graduate from Redmond Union High School.

From an early age, Colleen made her mark in the arena. She rode in junior rodeos all over the region, winning saddles, tack, and the admiration of everyone who watched her ride. She also competed in saddle horse races on the track and even rode cows. The girl could do it all. Colleen later attended college for accounting and bookkeeping and went on to work for Barclay Logging, bringing the same determination to the office that she brought to the saddle.

Colleen eventually started a new chapter with her husband Gary, building a life together as ranchers across Central Oregon. In the 1980s, she discovered her passion for cutting horses, and by the 1990s

and 2000s, she had become a highly accomplished cutting horse competitor, earning numerous saddles, buckles, trophies, and horse tack along the way. She always said being on the back of a horse was her therapy, and the outdoors was where she felt most alive.

Colleen was also an exceptional seamstress who poured love into every quilt she made. She crafted quilts for her grandchildren, family, and close friends, always choosing material that reflected their personality and lifestyle. She was a wonderful grandmother who taught each of her grandchildren something meaningful, and she was a friend to everyone she met.

In 2023, Colleen was diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s, but she remained strong to the very end, just as she had been her entire life.

Colleen is survived by her husband, Gary Haynes; her son, Brad Haynes; and her daughter, Jodi Hulsey. Colleen had four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Colleen was preceded in death by two parents and two sisters.

We know that one day we will all reunite on the other side. Until then, we will miss her dearly, especially that snappy sense of humor.

Obituaries (continuedfrompage6)

were his favorite place in Central Oregon.

Wearable art takes the stage…

Leonard Grant Ingham, known to family and friends as Lee, was born in Niagara Falls, New York, on December 15, 1955 to Ruth Golden Ingham and Leonard Martin Ingham. As the family moved to Massachusetts, Arkansas, Missouri, and Michigan, Lee loved playing ice hockey and was active in Boy Scouts with his father.

In 1967, the family moved to Saudi Arabia where his teen years were filled with baseball, basketball, and fishing in the Arabian Gulf. Friends remember his “glass bottom” boat which produced many laughs and some fishviewing despite its leaks. As a young adult, Lee was an avid motorcyclist and spent hours exploring the desert with friends and his father.

After graduation from Pacific University in 1979, Lee’s professional life took him to Dhahran and then Houston where he worked for the Aramco Services Company.

His son Joshua and daughter Ashli were born in Houston. From 1986 to 1992, Lee and his family lived in Sisters, where son, Harrison, was born. While in Sisters, Lee served as President of Kiwanis and served the community through the local food bank. He recently told his family that the lava tubes caves

Love of the desert and the Aramco scene drew Lee back to eastern Saudi Arabia where he worked until his retirement in 2015. He returned to Sisters, and later lived in Austin, Texas, until his death on July 3.

Lee is survived by Joshua Ingham of Lincoln, Nebraska; Ashli Dennett of Houston, Texas; and Harrison Ingham of Brisbane, Australia. Lee’s sister Linda Ingham Rummel (Len Rummel) splits time between Oregon and Arizona, and his sister Claudia Ingham (Conan Schleicher) lives in Oregon.

Lee was a larger-thanlife character to many. His life was defined not only by the impact he had on those around him, but also by the challenges he faced including his lifelong struggle with addiction, and the gift of a heart transplant. In honoring his memory, we hope to help others facing similar journeys.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either The Herren Project (https://herrenproject.org/ donate/) or the Southwest Transplant Alliance Foundation (https://www. organ.org; donate at https:// www.organ.org/in-memory).

Supporting either organization honors Lee’s life by helping others facing addiction, organ transplantation, and recovery with hope, compassion, and care.

Sale will support Sisters Museum

Three Sisters Historical Society will host a Timeless Treasures sale in the (airconditioned) Community Hall of the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District main station at 301 S. Elm St. on Saturday, July 18.

Members of the local community have responded to requests with generous donations of a large crosssection of gently used and new items. These range from fun and artsy to unusual and

practical — for the home and the outdoors. There will be antiques, artwork, kids’ stuff, home furnishings, jewelry, collectibles, technology, garden equipment, power tools, hand tools, sporting and camping gear, and a few select pieces of furniture.

The nonprofit Three Sisters Historical Society is hosting its first-ever fundraising benefit in support of the all-volunteer Sisters Museum. Their mission is

to gather, preserve, and share the artifacts, photos, documents, and stories that make up the unique history of our town. They do this through the Sisters Museum’s rotating exhibits, oral history interviews, guided walking tours, Fireside talks, children’s programs, an informative website, and community outreach.

There is no admission fee for this event. The hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Bend man pleads guilty in dispensary robbery

A Bend man pleaded guilty last week after robbing a Bend cannabis dispensary.

Russell Ian Boggess, 43, pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

According to court documents, on July 23, 2024, Boggess robbed a Bend cannabis dispensary with a 9 mm handgun. During the robbery, Boggess attempted to fire the gun twice, but the gun jammed. A dispensary employee attempted to call the police, but Boggess

struck the employee in the head with the firearm and fled the store with the stolen cannabis. Witnesses outside the store were able to subdue Boggess and secure the firearm until law enforcement arrived.

On September 19, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Boggess with interference with commerce by threats or violence, felon in possession of ammunition, and use and carry of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

Boggess faces a maximum

sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for interference with commerce by robbery. For use and carry of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, Boggess faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison, a maximum sentence of life in prison, to be served consecutively to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Boggess will be sentenced on October 7, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

Keeping

skeeters at bay this summer

As mosquito activity increases during the summer months, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions against mosquito bites and reduce exposure to West Nile virus, the most common mosquitoborne disease in the state.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are detected in Oregon every year, primarily in eastern and southern parts of the state, though infected mosquitoes have been found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Public health works closely with local vector control districts to identify areas where the virus is circulating in the mosquito population.

West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can infect humans, birds, horses, and other animals. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then spread the virus through subsequent bites.

“Summer is a great time to enjoy Oregon’s outdoors, but it’s also the time of year when mosquito activity is at its highest,” said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., public health veterinarian at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Most people infected with West Nile virus may not develop symptoms, but some can become seriously ill, especially those over 50. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.”

About one in five people infected with West Nile virus develop a fever and flu-like illness that can include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Adults 50 and older, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk for severe illness. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological disease affecting the brain or nervous system.

People experiencing a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, tremors, or paralysis should contact a health care provider right away.

Reduce breeding sites at home:

• Eliminate standing water around potted plants.

Run for City Council

By Susan Cobb Columnist

Back in 2022, I wrote a letter to The Nugget encouraging you to run for office, because I was then running for office myself, and I challenged you to run against me to give the public more candidate options. Three candidates for three open seats would result in a shoein for those candidates.

• Empty water from buckets, birdbaths, pet dishes and other containers at least once or twice each week.

• Clean clogged gutters and drainage areas.

• Remove old tires, unused containers and outdoor debris that can collect water.

• Regularly inspect areas under decks and shrubs, and around outbuildings where water may accumulate.

Protect yourself outdoors:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow label instructions.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when mosquito activity is high.

• Consider limiting outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

• Use mosquito netting over infant carriers and strollers.

• Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes and buildings.

Additional information about West Nile virus, mosquito prevention and surveillance activities in Oregon is available on OHA’s West Nile virus webpage.

Currently, only two candidates have registered for the three City of Sisters Council open seats in the November 3 election: Rick Retzman and incumbent Councilor Cheryl Pellerin.

Pellerin took me aside at the last City Council meeting to say she was concerned there were only two candidates registered so far and reminded me of my 2022 letter. That election had five candidates in the end. Maybe my letter had helped.

Besides Pellerin’s seat being open, so too are the seats of Councilors Michael Preedin and Gary Ross. They have not yet indicated whether they will be running again. As incumbents they have until August 18 to file. For other candidates, the filing deadline is by 5 p.m. on August 25. Plenty of time left to do what is needed to run.

Perhaps you thought

about it and just never took that step to run for office. Now is your chance, and I highly recommend it. My two-year term was rewarding in learning so very much that I had known nothing about, working with the City’s very conscientious employees, and representing a bit over 2,000 people. You want your voice to matter? No better way than to serve the people.

If being a councilor is so great why did I leave? I am 78 (December birthday) and as an incumbent candidate, it is very likely I would have won a four-year term.

Of the three City Council candidates elected every two years, the two candidates with the most votes serve four-year terms and the third vote getter gets a two-year term. After assuring there were several viable and younger candidates who had filed for the 2024 election, I made the difficult decision not to run. It was the best job I ever had.

To run for City Council (a volunteer job), you only need to be of voting age, have lived in Sisters for last 12 months continuously, and be a registered voter in the City of Sisters. Council seats are nonpartisan but seeking the endorsement of whatever party with which you are affiliated assures you have expert help with your campaign. Go online to the City of Sisters website, click on administration, then elections, and the line, “Considering running for City Council?” That page gives you all the help you will need and a City contact if you have any questions. If you’re running for City Council and have not already done so, check out the City Council meetings at www.ci.sisters.or.us/ meetngs to be ready for when you win, and before instated in January 2027. Also, I recommend registering to receive the Sisters Roundup newsletter whether you run for office or not.

Bull by Bull

By Judy Bull Columnist

I’ve been chided more than once (by the same person) for often writing about aging in my B x B columns. I am reminded of something Erik Dolson once said: “Write what you know.” What I know is that I am aging, and so far most all of me is still working, albeit far more slowly, but working nonetheless.

Another take on those ubiquitous blue Republic Services recycle carts: I am a very visual person and I’m always reassured it’s Tuesday when I see Republic’s garbage carts alongside the road. Not so when I headed out on my bike on a recent Sunday morning. Much to my dismay there were blue carts all along the roads throughout Cloverdale. Truly, I had to check in with myself to be sure I knew what day it was.

After shopping at Costco, I had four boxes of Old Fashion Oats stacked on the rider’s side floor of my Bronco. Upon closing the door, I was locked out. AAA to the rescue, after which I closed the door they had just unlocked, only to have it lock up again. “All those boxes of oats are pushing on the lock,” said the AAA man, rolling his eyes.

After inspecting the surrounds of my house this spring, my home insurance company sent me a to-do list for future fire safety

and to keep my insurance. The list included limbing some trees and cutting down six others, moving a cord of wood, taking every bit of plant matter off the roof and a lot of mowing. I was exhausted by the time I had checked everything off their list, having drawn the line at moving Vernon’s old shoein’ truck and taking the wooden pew from Sisters Church of Christ (aka The Belfry) off the front porch.

Second only to Saturday night dances at the the Powell Butte Grange, going to the Central Electric Coop Annual Meeting was something Vernon and I always looked forward to. This year I attended my 40th CEC meeting and enjoyed it as much as ever. It’s always good to see old friends and acquaintances and this year was special as my friend and neighbor, Boyd Keeton, was given a standing ovation as he retired after 45 years on the CEC Board of Directors.

I “caught” a case of vertigo awhile back and as I sat in my chair that morning, wondering what was going on, I heard myself say to Bingo, “This may be it,” feeling grateful for most everything in an instant, and certainly praying for more.

“The processes of life co-exist with the processes of death. Good health, and life itself, are temporary.”

Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

Rest in peace, Joe Bull (1941-2026).

Exploring the gritty heart of grifting

Portland author Suzy Vitello will present her new novel, “Griftopia,” at Paulina Springs Books on Thursday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m. “Griftopia” explores the struggles of a modern family in free fall who turn to grifting for survival.

Orphaned and separated as young children, the Freischin sisters are nothing if not survivors. Now, in middle age, Pearl is blindsided by a sexual harassment allegation, while her son Declan, a college student and track star struggling with anxiety, quits school when he becomes entangled with a young conartist. Meanwhile, Pearl’s sister Scarlett is left penniless after her husband is imprisoned for embezzling, and Scarlett’s daughter Helena turns to pickleball coaching as a side hustle when her 6-year-old

child, Burkleigh — who’d achieved meteoric social media fame for her ability to sing like Billie Holiday — is canceled for appropriation. Close to destitute, the Freischin clan is in danger of homelessness unless they can pull themselves out of financial instability. Leveraging Burkleigh’s talent, they arrive at a series of progressively dubious internet scams that lead them to an unexpected alliance.

Although Suzy Vitello’s first novel, “A Plot to Kill a King,” never made it out of her sixth-grade classroom, writing it fueled her interest in themes of justice sprinkled with humor. In one form or another, she’s been writing about power imbalance ever since. Her notable novels include “Bitterroot,” “The Bequest,” and “Faultland.” As the

managing editor of Sibylline Press, Suzy enjoys deep-diving into the minds and hearts of other writers. She lives and writes in Portland, with her husband and an elderly rottweiler.

Sisters Astronomy Club hosts the first star party of the 2026 season on Friday, July 17, beginning at 8:30 p.m. The event will be held at the west end of the south parking lot of Sisters High School, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd.

Club members will be on hand with telescopes to share their knowledge and views of the sky with attendees. This night under the stars is free and all are invited. Since

this type of activity requires clear skies, the star party will be cancelled if inclement weather interferes. Dress appropriately for potentially chilly nighttime conditions.

The club is holding more this summer. Future dates are:

• Friday, August 14, 8

p.m.

• Friday, September 4, 7

p.m.

• Friday, October 2, 6:30 p.m.

Sisters Astronomy Club was founded January 5, 2011, by local amateur astronomers and educators, and is a volunteer committee of Sisters Park & Recreation District. The purpose of the club is to foster enthusiasm for and knowledge of astronomy within the community of Sisters and the surrounding area, and to interact with other people and organizations that share similar interests in astronomy.

COMM UN IT Y AN NOUNCE ME NTS

“Timeless Treasu res”

Museum Benefit Sa le ree Sisters H istorica l Soc iety

wi l l be h av ing it s r st-ever mu seu m bene t sale, “ Ti meless

Trea su res,” t hi s Sat urday, July 18 , at t he Sisters F ire H all. e one -day sale w il l featu re a col lect ion of ‘gent ly u sed’ and ne w piece s don ated by you , ou r wonderfu l Sisters commun it y. We a re g ratefu l to t hose w ho have been so

generou s i n don at ing a rt work , antiques, c hi ld ren’s items , home f urni sh ings , col lect ibles, tech nology, garden e qu ipment , tool s , s porting a nd c ampi ng gear, a nd more . L ook to our Facebook page i n t he com ing day s for t ea sers of some of t he am azing t hi ngs t hi s sale w il l be f eaturi ng. ere w il l be something for e veryone! 5 41610- 6323

10 th An nual Hoodoo

Challenge/Race to the Top Satu rd ay, July 2 5 . H al f ma rathon s ta rt s at 8 a .m. , 5K st art s at 9 a .m . L ive music a nd lu nc h ser ved a er t he race!

Regi ster at h ps://ultrasig nup. com/regi ster.aspx?did=13318 4 .

Interpretive Wa lk s

Su mmer 2026

541-549-0605

541-815-0624

SIST ER S COMM UN IT Y FOOD RE SOURCE S

Free Lu nches for Seniors COACO o ers no-cost

socia l lunc h e ver y Tuesd ay, 11 a .m . to 1 p.m . at Sisters

Commun it y C hu rc h, 130 0 W. McK en zie Hwy No reser vation s neede d. No -cost Grab-N-Go

lu nc hes weekly on

Wednesday a nd u rsday, from 12:3 0 to 1 p.m . Cal l 541-79 7-93 67

Week ly Food Pa nt ry COR E M arket , loc ated at 22 2 N. Trinit y Way i n

Si sters . Mondays , 1 to 2 p. m . I nfo: 5 41-588 -2 332. Free Week ly Meal

Serv ice

Famil y K itchen hos t s a week ly to-go hot mea l on Tuesdays , 4:3 0 to 5:3 0 p.m., at Sisters Com mu nity

Church, 130 0 W. McK en zie

Hw y. I nfo: www Fami lyKitc hen.org.

Free Pet Food

Need pet food for you r dog or c at? Cal l t he Fur ry

Fr iend s pet food b an k at 541-79 7- 40 2 3 to s chedule

you r pic kup. L oc ated at 412 E . M ai n Ave., Ste. 4, beh ind e Nug get.

Kiwa nis Food Ba nk Located at 382 W. M ai n Ave . Weekly d istr ibut ion i s u rsday s f rom 9 a .m . to 2 p.m . I nfo: 5

Th ree Sisters Histor ical Societ y Wa lk ing Tours Free g uided Wal ki ng Tou rs: Heritage Homes or H istoric Bu ildi ngs Dow ntow n . E xplore the c ha r m a nd some of t he r ic h stor ies of Sisters’ past . E ac h

tou r i s about one m ile long a nd ta kes one hou r. For dates , t imes , and reser vation s , go to www th reesistershi stor ic al societ y.org under t he “ Wa lk ing Tou rs” t ab 541- 610- 6323

Sisters Ga rden Club

Mont hly Membersh ip Meet ing

Satu rd ay, July 18 , at 10 a .m

Tom R od house, PhD, OSUCascad es , w il l e xpla i n t he role

bat s play i n n at ure a nd i n our

ga rden s . Find out w hy bat s a re cool! Meeting loc at ion i s e

Hub, 291 E . M ai n Avenue. 5 4142 0- 62 39

2026 Histor ical Wa lk ing

Tours of the Ca mp Polk

Histor ical Cemetery

Gu ided w alk s sta r t at 10:3 0 a .m at 6 985 Cemeter y R oad , Sisters

e cemeter y i s not handicap accessible a nd w alk s i nc lude

uneven g round . e nex t jour ne y t hroug h Sisters’ h istory

st art s July 18! R eg ister at www

ca mppolk pioneercemeter y.org.

Free Sat urday mor ning w alks o ered by F riends of t he

Metolius . K id s a re welcome, but please no dogs . Wea r stu rdy footwea r a nd bring w ater Ju ly 18, 9 to 11 a.m. Fish Wa lk

PG E sherie s biologi st B ec ky

Bu rc hel l w il l d iscuss sal mon and steel head rei nt roduct ion i n t he upper D eschute s Basin and t he nat ive sh t hat rely on the Metol iu s R iver. D uring a wa l k f rom Camp S herm a n to Al li ng ha m Bridge a nd back, she w il l sha re i nsig ht s f rom her 2 5 yea r s of work i n t he basin Leader: Beck y Bu rche ll . For in form at ion, ca ll 971-3255381

Notice of Elec tion for Sisters City Counci l

Notice i s hereby g iven t hat a Genera l E lect ion w il l be held on November 3 , 2 026 , for t hree position s on t he Sisters Cit y Counci l . e r st d ay to le for a Cit y Cou nc i l pos it ion w as Wednesday, June 3 , 2 026 . To be el ig ible one must be a q ua li ed elec tor i n O regon, a c ur rent regi stered voter i n t he Cit y of Si sters , a nd must h ave been a resident of t he Cit y for 12 mont h s preceding t he elect ion. Cit y Cou nc i l pos it ion s a re nonpa rt isan . E lect ion m ater ia l s c an be fou nd on t he Cit y website at: www.c i. sisters.or.u s . e term s of C ou nc ilor M ic hael

Preedin, Cou nc ilor Gar y R oss, and Cou nc ilor C hery l Pel leri n wi l l end on December 31, 2 026. Al l t hree a re e ligible to apply for reelect ion . Candidates a re encouraged to obt ai n elect ion material s by A ug ust 4, 2 026.

Al l l ing requi rement s for incu mbents must be c ompleted by 5:0 0 p.m . on A ug ust 18 , 2026, a nd new c andidates by 5: 0 0 p.m . on A ug ust 2 5 , 2 026. For quest ion s about t he process , em ai l Mon ic a Bur meister at mbur meister@ci.sisters .or.us , or stop by Cit y H al l at 52 0 E Cascad e Avenue.

Sisters Kiwa nis Commun it y for Kids Ra ff le draw ing

Wednesday, July 2 2 at 12 p.m

Ticket s a re $ 20.0 0 eac h at h ps://sistersk iw an is .org / commun it y-for-kids-ra e/. Ten g reat , f antasti c bundle s of pr izes provided by a n a mazi ng group of S isters b usinesses . A ll proceed s go to s uppor t K iw an is projec t s for loc a l k id s a nd t heir f amilies . 5 41-419 -1933. 10 0+ Women Who Ca reSister s 10 0 + Women W ho Care- Si sters pool s i nd iv idua l don at ions to f und loc a l nonpro t s nomi nated by it s members Prev iou s rec ipient s i nc lude Ha rmony Far m Sanctua ry, STARS, Famil y A ccess Network (FA N), Seed to Table, Fu rr y Friends Fou nd at ion, Meal s on W heels , StirrUp Pu rpose, C OR E M arket, Livi ng Wel l w it h Dementi a, and Sisters Com mu nity Leadersh ip I niti at ive. 100 + Women W ho Care- Si sters wi l l hold a qua rterly meeti ng on u rsday, July 2 3 . New members a re welcome; t here i s no membership fee. For more in form at ion on how to a end a meeti ng , joi n t he g roup, or nomi nate a nonpro t , ema il 10 0w wc .Sisters@g ma il .com or ca ll/tex t 5 41-912 -0 75 0

Su mmer Concer t Series

2026

Su nd ay, July 19, at 5:3 0 p.m . at

Si sters Com mu nit y C hu rc h, 13 0 0 McK en zie Hwy, enjoy Motel K alifor ni a . Food

tr uc k s ava il able. Don at ions suppor t H abit at for Hum an it y.

Ne x t concer t i s A ug ust 15, wit h Je Miller B and a nd donation s s uppor t COR E . For in form at ion go to s isterschurch com/event s . Contac t i nfo@ sistersc hu rc h.com.

Bible St udy for AL L

6:3 0 p.m . e ver y u rsday i n t he eat re room at e L odge i n Si sters , 421 E . Car penter L n. 541-233- 6189.

Honey Bees & Brews

Mont hly soc ia l gat heri ng at L az y Z R anc h e very 4t h u rsday at 5 p.m . A ll beekeepers a nd w an na-bees welcome. F or more i nfo: C lyde, 458 -2 06 -8 470.

Neig hbors Need Me dica l Rides. You Ca n Help

JOI N STA R S NOW to help ag ing , d isabled , a nd u nderserved pas sengers reach medica l appoi nt ment s . You choose w hen you d rive. I t’s ex ible, mea ni ng ful, a nd di rectl y s upport s neig hbors who u rgently depend on STAR S to get to c are . Tra ining and m ileage rei mbur sement prov ided . L ea r n more a nd apply: h ps://www.sta rsride org/dr ive-for-us

Livi ng Well With Dement ia Sisters Suppor t Groups Suppor t g roups meet t he 2nd and 4 t h Wed ne sd ay of t he mont h f rom 1 to 2:3 0 p.m . at Si sters Com mu nit y R ec reat ion Center. e E arly Stage Support Group meet s i n t he W hychus Room . e Care Partner G roup meet s i n t he Metol iu s R oom.

For i nfor mation c al l 5 41-58805 47

Ba ha’i Fa it h For i nfor mation, devot ions, study g roups, etc ., cont ac t S hauna R ocha 5 41-6 47-982 6 • www.bah ai .org www.bah ai .u

Volu nteers Needed to Help Horses

Ca lling a l l hor se lover s! H appy Trail s Hor se R escue i n Tum alo need s volunteers! Ca n you help t hem help hor ses? New Volu nteer O rientation i s t he rst a nd t hird Sunday s of the mont h at 10 a .m . or c al l to s chedule! L ea r n more at h ps://www.h appy trai lshr.org

SISTERS-AREA Events & Enter tainment

WEDNESDAY • JULY 15

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt "Handpicked Series," 6 to 8 p.m. $10 Info: frankiesinsisters.com. Upstairs at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Paulina Springs Books Analog Night

5:30 to 7 p.m. screen-free evening of crafting puzzles, games, coloring, knitting, embroidery, journaling, or whatever analog activity you enjoy. Bring your own activity or choose something from Paulina Springs. All ages welcome! Hosted by textile artist Krista West Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • JULY 16

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Mike Biggers and Lilli Worona 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Wine & Watercolor Workshop 6 to 8 p.m. $35 Sisters Art Station will host a beginner-friendly watercolor workshop Make 1-3 art pieces! Register: www.sistersartstation.com.

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Leadbetter Band 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Willa Goodfellow presents “A Gritty Little Tourist Town.” 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 13th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30 Info: call 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • JULY 17

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Doublewide: Rick and Sue Moore 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Mortal Soulstice 5 to 7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20 paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Sidney Joseph 6 to 8 p.m. Smokey-voiced multi-instrumentalist. No cover. More info: www.lazyzranch.com/events.

SATURDAY • JULY 18

Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Natural Dye Workshop: From Plants to Pigment" In this two-day, hands-on class Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19, students learn to create pigments and paints from dye plants grown right here on Pine Meadow Ranch. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $225 Registration and more info: roundhousefoundation.org/events.

FivePine Lodge "Changing Futures" Circle of Friends Fundraiser Dinner celebrating 15 years of community impact. Live music by singer-songwriter Megan Alder live and silent auctions, and emcee Anthony Poponi. All proceeds directly fund life-changing mentorship programs that help local youth build resilience and shape a brighter tomorrow 5:30 p.m. Tickets: www circleoffriendsoregon.org.

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Haute Mélange 6 to 8 p.m. Gypsy jazz the way it was meant to be heard, hot, intricate, and completely alive. Tickets and information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/.

The Barn Live Music: Funk Around & Find Out 6 to 8 p.m. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free Info: 541-549-2471

Hardtails Live Music: The Sleepless Truckers 8 to 10 p .m. in The Yard $10 cover begins at 7 p.m. Info: hardtailsdivebarandgrill.com.

SUNDAY • JULY 19

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music, community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Soccer Finale

12 to 2 p.m. Match on with sound. No cover. More info: www.lazyzranch.com/events.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Desert Howlers 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio Free and open to all ages

Sisters Community Church Live Music: Motel Kalifornia on the lawn at 1300 Old McKenzie Hwy Doors at 5:30 p.m., concert 6 to 8 p.m. Free with donations welcomed to support Sisters Habitat for Humanity. All are welcome for an evening of music dancing and fellowship Info: sisterschurch.com/events.

MONDAY • JULY 20

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Blair Borax 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages

TUESDAY • JULY 21

Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. WEDNESDAY • JULY 22

The Suttle Lodge Shakespear on the Lawn Guerrilla Shakespeare on the lawn: William Shakespeare’s "Cymbeline." 7p.m. Tickets: https://thesuttlelodge.com/ happenings/upcoming/shakespeare-at-suttle Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Jimmy & Dee Fretwell 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip played). THURSDAY • JULY 23

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Suzy Vitello presents “Griftopia" at 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com. Frankie's in Sisters Open Mic Music lovers can enjoy a variety of local talent, 6 to 8 p.m. Sign ups, 5:30 No cover; outside in the courtyard Info: frankiesinsisters.com. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Cut, Score & Etch: Intro to the Laser Cutter Workshop" Through live demonstrations, participants will learn the basics of file preparation, material safety and machine operation while exploring the creative possibilities of laser cutting and etching on a range of mediums. Various times. $25 Registration and info: roundhousefoundation.org/events.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Bees & Brews (and Mead!) 5 to 6 p.m. Gather with local beekeepers to discuss all things bees! More info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 13th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30 Info: call 541-549-2471

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Sun Threaders ft Travis Ehrenstrom 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free FRIDAY • JULY 24

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Jesse Meade 6 to 8 p.m. Finger-style acoustic guitarist, singer/songwriter No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. The Barn Live Music: Ky Burt & The Feel Goods 6 to 8 p.m. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tony Lompa 6 to 8 p.m. No cover! Upstairs at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20 paulinaspringsbooks.com. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Toothpick Shaker 5 to 7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

Downtown Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk 4 to 7 p.m. Galleries and shops feature art and demonstrations. Information: www.sistersarts.org.

SATURDAY • JULY 25

The Hub Art Class: "Large, Colorful Paintings" with Paul Alan Bennett 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Painting will be in tempera on large pieces of black roofing paper All materials provided. Bring your own lunch. $150 Contact Paul at pbennett3@gmail.com or 541-588-0156 for more details or to register. The Hub is located at 291 E. Main Ave. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Paper Weaving Workshop" 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. In this workshop participants use colorful and patterned paper to weave unique designs and collages $45. Registration and more info: roundhousefoundation.org/events. Hardtails Live Music: Guitar Gods

8 to 10 p .m. in The Yard $10 cover begins at 7 p.m. Info: hardtailsdivebarandgrill.com.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Lickety Split 6 to 8 p.m. Original music grounded in American roots traditions, including jug band stomps, vaudeville blues, old time No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. The Barn Live Music: Smoke Drifters 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free Info: 541-549-2471

SUNDAY • JULY 26

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com. Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com. Sisters Saloon Live Music: ABluestics 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio Free and open to all ages

MONDAY • JULY 27

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Matt Mitchell 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages

TUESDAY • JULY 28

Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Pool Tournament 5:30 p.m. Info: 541-549-6114.

WEDNESDAY • JULY 29

Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt "Handpicked Series," 6 to 8 p.m. $10 Info: frankiesinsisters.com. Upstairs at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • JULY 30

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Double Jump 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Hilar y Conway presents "Radical Wellness: Pathways to a Healthy Body, Mind, and Planet," an evening of guided meditation, reading, conversation. 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com. Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 13th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30 Info: call 541-549-2471

FRIDAY • JULY 31

Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Danilson Duo 6 to 8 p.m. Husband-and-wife team known for their soulful harmonies. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. The Barn Live Music: Joel Chadd 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www thebarninsisters.com.

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Mortal Soulstice 5 to 7 p.m. Free Family- and dog-friendly Info: 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20 paulinaspringsbooks.com.

SATURDAY • AUGUST 1

Hardtails Live Music: Major Dudes Steely Dan tribute. 7 to 10 p .m. in The Yard Tickets: BendTicket.com. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Spontaneous Car Show 5-7 p.m. Family- and dog-friendly Bring your cool car to display, or just come look — different every week. Free Info: 541-549-2471

Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Lilli Worona 2 to 4 p.m. Singer/songwriter guitarist, and fiddle player. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events.

SUNDAY • AUGUST 2

Fir Street Park Sisters Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring live music community booth, vendors, kids activities, and more. For info visit www.sistersfarmersmarket.com.

Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

Sisters Saloon Live Music: Dr y Canyon Stampede 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio Free and open to all ages

MONDAY • AUGUST 3

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Jeshua Marshall 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages Paulina Springs Books Poetr y Gathering "The Pause Button," an informal monthly gathering for poets and poetry enthusiasts Bring a poem or two to share. Listen, discuss, and write. Free 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. More info at www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.

TUESDAY • AUGUST 4

Hardtails Outlaw Countr y Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 5

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Wolfhouse Records Dirty Jazz 6 to 8 p.m. Free Info: www thesuttlelodge.com.

Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • AUGUST 6

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 13th annual family-friendly trivia. Free 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30 Info: call 541-549-2471

Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Jenn Donahue presents "Becoming the Warrior: Harnessing Your Inner Strength to Silence Self-Doubt." The framework is designed to move those who feel stuck and afraid to feeling equipped to take action. 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Skillethead 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages

LETTERS

Continued from page 2

To the Editor:

s s s

Vet your contractor

Hiring a contractor is one of the largest investments many homeowners make, and I encourage homeowners to do their due diligence before signing a contract.

I learned firsthand how important it is to independently verify a contractor’s license, bond, insurance, references, and billing practices. Don’t rely solely on promises or verbal updates. Request detailed invoices, keep records of every payment, and inspect the work regularly, or have someone you trust do so if you cannot.

new information

Blood supply in state of emergency

The American Red Cross is declaring an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25 percent in June. Blood donors are urgently needed to give now to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O positive and B negative blood.

Donors can next donate in Sisters on Friday, July 31: 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Sisters Fire District Community Hall, 301 S. Elm St.

A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply and patient need. Currently, Red Cross distributions to hospitals are nearly 3,500 units higher per week than expected at a time when hospitals often see higher demand for blood products during the height of trauma season. On top of that, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives are driving the decline which could put patient care at risk if not reversed.

The most important way to help end the blood shortage is to book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all who come to give July 13-31, will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees). Additional details can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/July.

Every donation is critical to rebuilding the nation’s blood supply, yet many people may not realize the significant impact a single donation can have on patients in need. A recent Red Cross survey revealed a significant gap between public perception and the reality of the nation’s

blood supply:

• Less than one in five respondents understood that blood cannot be stockpiled because it has a limited shelf life and must be continually replenished through volunteer donors.

• Only about half believed it was very likely that they or someone close to them would need blood one day — even though someone in the U.S. receives a blood transfusion every two seconds.

“A readily available blood

supply serves as the backbone of modern medicine. Without it, lifesaving treatments and critical access points to care are not possible,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the Red Cross. “Emergency departments, operating rooms, and labor and delivery units can’t support patients with the most urgent needs, and cancer patients must wait. We’re asking donors to give now before doctors are forced to make those difficult decisions.”

If something doesn’t seem right, ask questions immediately. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Taking these simple steps at the beginning of a project can save homeowners significant time, money, and frustration later.

I also encourage prospective customers to verify the current status of a contractor’s license, bond, and insurance through the appropriate state resources before hiring.

My hope in writing this letter is not to revisit my personal situation but to encourage homeowners to protect themselves by asking questions, documenting everything, and verifying credentials before work begins. A little due diligence upfront can prevent costly mistakes and help ensure you hire a contractor who earns your trust.

Kara Keels

zone and benefits of specific plants, screen the generators, and eventually have one or more art pedestals for permanent or rotated art works. The City staff and Council hope that local property owners will recognize that such landscaping is visually attractive, safer, and uses less water and perhaps be encouraged to reconsider and adjust their own property landscapes.

Dumanch shared that the original financial impact for the landscaping was unreasonably high so the City employees will complete a good portion of the prep work (like removing the turf) to bring the overall landscaping expense to $70,000.

Mayor Letz had several suggestions about the width of the paths, specific flammable plants to not include, to consider how certain plants may grow into the zero-to-five-feet zone and for City staff to be mindful that landscaping providers may inadvertently substitute flammable plants. Council President Sarah McDougall suggested that the pollinator plants ought to be situated in the 30-to-100-feet zone.

C4C Executive Director Kellen Klein presented the depth and breadth of community support work the nonpartisan nonprofit has attained in a decade of existence.

Klein invited all to celebrate C4C’s 10th anniversary, Friday, July 24, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Fir Street Park.

Klein shared that C4C’s goal for Sisters is to build and sustaim “a thriving resilient community.” To do that, Klein stated, it takes collaboration, civility, and civic engagement. C4C involves and helps the community in various ways:

• Events: informational forums, gatherings like ‘Let’s Get Together,’ and community traditions, such as the 4th Fest.

• Programs: Sisters Civic Leadership Academy (SCLA), Sisters High

School Banners of graduates, Momentum grants of $15,000 given, and Land of 1000 Picnics where $150 is given per picnic.

• Network Weaving: C4C supports Community Builders meetings, an Information Clearing House, local resources and information, and facilitates for the Sisters Country Vision Implementation Team.

• The Hub: co-working, meeting spaces, sliding-scale event rental, nonprofit landing library, and an artists in residence program.

Klein shared that the C4C board of five members appreciate the reduced rate for the use of the Hub are stewards in support of the City’s fireand water-wise efforts. He highlighted that the 4th Fest is a growing success. After the third year of SCLA a total of 17 participants moved into some form of civic service.

Klein also appreciated the joint efforts with the City and Sisters community to raise $18,000 for the victims of and first responders to the 2024 Flat Fire.

Klein is C4C’s one fulltime employee; the C4C board hopes to gain enough funds to add at least one more FTE. Klein sees a future C4C need/project to create a local educational program he dubbed City 101. Council voiced appreciation for Klein and C4C and Klein expressed appreciation to the Council, City staff, and their employees.

Mayor Jennifer Letz appointed the Sisters Public Arts Advisory Board (PAAB). The first-ever PAAB is comprised of five volunteer board members: Esther Nooner and Stefanie Siebold both serving to December 31, 2028; and Paul Bennett, Christine Funk, and Andrew Loomis serving to December 31, 2027.

The council also approved Councilor Cheryl Pellerin as liaison to the PAAB with Councilor Gary Ross as back up liaison.

PAAB’s first meeting is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, August 25 at 3 p.m.

As with all City boards and commissions, the meetings are public and their schedules and minutes will be posted.

Mystic Soul grand opening...

The Nugget NEWS PA PE R

QUILT SHOW: Details draw viewers in to view quilts

Continued from page 1

shipped them from Michigan.

“I talked the big guy into shipping it priority mail so it would get there on time,” she said.

It didn’t.

For reasons unknown, the package containing her quilts sat in San Francisco for several days. The Millers put in an online query to the post office, then started making calls. The quilt package went to Portland.

“Sharon [Binion] from the local post office called and said, ‘I’ll do my best to get your quilts here on time,’” Miller recalled.

There was yet one more hitch: The quilts were sent to La Pine.

Binion, who serves as Sisters’ postmaster, drove to La Pine to retrieve them and got them back in time to get them sorted, assigned a space, and hung.

Miller was deeply moved by the exceptional effort.

“She told me ‘I told you I would do it. I made a promise, so I did it,’” Miller said. “It’s that small town feeling.”

Miller held forth on the sidewalk explaining her process.

“I like a riot of color,” she said.

Her quilt, titled “Stargazing on the Mountain,” drew the attention of three sisters, Janet Holland of The Dalles, Maureen Dawson of Boulder, Montana, and Mary Curtis from Bozeman, Montana, who were in town for their first Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show.

“They’ve been as far as Texas for a quilt show,” Janet said of her sisters.

They told The Nugget that what draws them to a quilt is detail and/or the use of a

variety of fabrics. Miller’s quilt caught their eye and their study for the latter quality.

Challenging creativity

It may not be apparent to the casual layperson just how much thought and effort go into quilting. One local resident was looking over the Quilt Block Contest entries displayed on Oak Street between Cascade and Hood avenues. She confessed that she had lived here several years before she ventured out to the Quilt Show.

“Quilt festival — big deal,” she thought.

Then some friends invited her and her husband out — and she was blown away by the creativity. She’s not a quilter herself, but she certainly appreciates the art now in a much more profound way.

Spectators exclaimed over the contest pieces — which are rendered exceptional not just by their aesthetics, but by the constraints the artists are compelled to work under. Each year, they get certain, limited fabric choices to work with.

“We come up with ideas all year long,” explained Pat Brundidge, who has been entering the contest for eight years. “Then when we get our fabric, we figure out how to do it.”

Sometimes an idea just won’t work. Sometimes the

idea morphs into something unexpected.

“Sometimes you go rogue and do something with the fabric that doesn’t look like it really does — and it works,” she said.

Brundidge’s point about abstract renderings unexpectedly working was illustrated by a quilter who exclaimed over one block, “Did she make a buffalo out of the crows? How cool!”

“It’s a frustrating, lovely creative process,” Brundidge concluded.

Brundidge recalled that she first came to the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show from her home in Salem 16 years ago. She was quilting-curious, and that first trip was an opportunity to see the wide diversity of styles and determine what kind of quilts she wanted to make.

She was most gratified to note that her daughter, Cathy Bramhall, won honorable mention.

The weather on show day was pleasant — sparing festivalgoers the heat that sometimes drives them off the street early. Crowds were large, and they lingered in the comfortable conditions, enjoying their explorations and interactions with teachers, hobbyists, and the curious on one of Sisters’ most festive occasions.

• Angeline’s Bakery • Bedouin

•Best Western Ponderosa Lodge • Bi-Mart

• Black Butte Realty Group

• Cabin Creek Home & Style • Cascade Fitness

• Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s • Central Oregon

Eyecare •Chevron/McDonald’s • Country Coffee

• Dairy Queen • Dixie’s • Eurosports

• Fika Sisters Coffeehouse

• First Interstate Bank • FivePine Lodge

• GrandStay Hotel & Suites • Habitat Thrif t Store • Habitat ReStore

•Hard Tails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill

• High Camp Taphouse

• Hoyt’s Hardware & Building Supply

• Lef t Coast Lodge • Les Schwab Tire Center

• Luckey’s Woodsman • Makin’ it Local

• Martolli’s of Sisters • Mid Oregon Credit Union

• Oliver Lemon’s • Paulina Springs Books

• Philadelphia’s Steak & Hoagies

• Pine Desert Dental • Ponderosa Properties

• Rancho Viejo

• Ray’s Food Place

• Sinclair Gas Station • Sisters Ace Hardware

• Sisters Apothecary • Sisters Art Works

• Sisters Athletic Club • Sisters Bakery

• Sisters Bunkhouse • Sisters City Hall

• Sisters Coffee Co.• Sisters Community Church

• Sisters Creekside Campground

• Sisters Dino Market •Sisters Depot

• Sisters Elementary School

•Sisters Feed & Supply

• Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop

• Sisters High School • Sisters Inn & Suites

• Sisters Library • Sisters Liquor Store

• Sisters Meat and Smokehouse

• Sisters Middle School • Sisters Moto

• Sisters Movie House & Café

• Sisters Nails & Spa • Sisters Post Off ice •Sisters Pumphouse & Country Store

• Sisters Ranger Station • Sisters Rental

• Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill

• Sisters School Administration Building

• Sisters Veterinary Clinic

• Ski Inn Taphouse & Motel

• Sno Cap Drive In

• Space Age Fuel

• Spoons Restaurant

• Sisters Park & Recreation District

• St. Charles Family Care • Stellar Realty NW

• Suttle Tea

Visiting featured artists at Quilt Show

By Susan Cobb Correspondent

The Nugget visited with several of the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show’s (SOQS) featured artists during Saturday’s event.

Leslie Jenison was the 2026 Inspirational Instructor. She teaches regularly at Quilter’s Affair in the week before SOQS.

“I am so very honored to be featured here at this outdoor show,” she told The Nugget . “I rarely have an opportunity to see my work assembled and hung in one place. And it’s so interesting to listen to what people say they see in my quilts. It can

—

Leslie Jenison

be so different from what I see or even my intent in the work.”

Chyan Nuttall was this year’s Rising Artist. She came from Alabama to Oregon’s coast in 2018 and after getting settled, she started looking for a creative outlet — and found quilting.

Chyan moved to Sisters in 2019 and was making quilts for family and friends when she found the courage to enter one quilt into the 2022 SOQS.

“Everyone has been so nice and it was gratifying to see that among all my quilts most people liked my own favorites,” she said at Saturday’s show.

Cindy O’Neal was this year’s Featured Artist at the Hub. Her journey into quilting was initially sparked when she would frequently travel from Southern California to visit her grandmother in Illinois. She enjoyed watching her working on quilts. The memory of

Chyan Nuttall was this year’s Rising Artist. The Nugget visited with a number of the quilters featured in this year’s Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show guide.

her grandmother doing handwork had Cindy doing some form of quilting most of her adult life and she primarily creates wall art quilts. Before she left California to come to Bend, Oregon, the president of the quilt guild Cindy attended told her, “you must go to the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show.” The week after Cindy arrived in Bend on July 2, 1997, she went to her first SOQS and she never looked back.

In the photo, Cindy stands before her wall art quilt “Fem Fatale,” inspired by the book “Where the Crawdads Sing.”

“It has been a fantastic day,” she said. “I got here at 8 a.m. to finish setting up and there have been so many people coming through, I have not left The Hub since!”

SCENES FROM SISTERS: July 11, 2026 by Cody

Rheault

which typically heals, damage to brain tissue may never fully resolve,” researchers and clinicians note in trauma literature. The possible consequences of a serious traumatic brain injury include memory loss, cognitive impairment, personality changes, depression, reduced capacity to work, and lasting physical disability. Orthopedic injuries heal. Brain injuries often do not.

According to the CDC, nearly 1,000 bicyclists are killed annually in crashes involving motor vehicles, and approximately 120,000 cyclists are treated in emergency departments each year for crash-related head and body injuries. Adults ages 55 to 69 carry the highest bicycle fatality rates of any age group.

Hospital and trauma-center studies show that intracranial head injuries account for roughly one-fifth of all bicycle-related inpatient admissions, making them among the most common serious consequences of crashes.

While Oregon law requires helmets only for riders under 16, they’re an important safety asset for everyone.

Athletic Training Program manager Stuart Schmidt at St. Charles Health System tells The Nugget, “Bike helmet safety tips for adults are the same as for kids. Our key reminders are: Always wear your helmet, always buckle your helmet, and one crash and it’s trash. That last one refers to the fact that helmets should be replaced after any crashes, falls, or incidents that can compromise the helmet’s integrity.

“Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of severe brain injury by up to 88 percent. And a good reminder for adults is that — if you want your kids to wear a helmet, you need to be the example. Children are more likely to wear a helmet when they see other kids and adults wearing one too.

“And remember to wear a helmet when taking part in any wheeled activity — including skateboarding,

rollerblading, bicycling, and scooter riding.”

St. Charles athletic trainers give out free helmets to thirdgraders across Central Oregon every year.

The stakes are rising with the spread of electric bicycles. E-bikes routinely assist riders to speeds of 20 mph, with some models legally capable of reaching 28 mph. Those speeds fundamentally change the physics of a crash.

A large U.S. study tracking e-bike injuries between 2017 and 2022 found annual injury totals climbing from fewer than 1,000 to more than 23,000, a dramatic increase researchers attributed to surging popularity, higher travel speeds, and low helmet-use rates among e-bike riders.

Trauma center research from New York City reinforced those findings. Nearly one-third of patients injured in bicycle, e-bike, and scooter crashes suffered traumatic brain injuries, and roughly 30 percent required intensive care. In most of those cases, the injured riders were not wearing helmets.

E-bikes are also drawing a new demographic onto faster machines. Older adults, who might have stopped riding conventional bicycles due to the physical demands of hills or long distances, are returning to cycling on e-bikes. The health and mobility benefits are real but so is the risk.

Older riders are generally more vulnerable to serious injury, and many are now traveling at speeds once associated primarily with trained recreational cyclists, often without the experience or protective gear that group typically uses.

Oregon’s helmet law reflects the national norm: no U.S. state currently mandates helmets for adult riders. The legal framework leaves the choice to individual cyclists, but safety researchers argue the medical case for wearing one has never been stronger.

Bicycling remains, by most measures, a safe and enormously beneficial activity. The goal of helmet advocates is not to discourage riding but to ensure that when something goes wrong — a car door, a patch of gravel, an unexpected stop — the rider gets back up.

On a recent Tuesday evening as I was loading up The Nugget for deliver y, a woman came up on the porch and g rabbed a handful of papers. She told me it is a weekly ritual for her to pick up papers for her neighbors, who all enjoy reading the paper “cover-to-cover.” She’s been doing this for years, and she said:

“I hope you keep going forever.”

We hear from readers like that on a regular basis, and it’s the most g ratifying aspect of our work.

Our goal is to keep going forever — and to do that, support from our readers has become vital. It’s no secret that print media is in trouble across the nation. Costs continue to rise, and can’t simply be passed on to advertisers who are already stressed by their own higher costs of doing business. Readership declines as people’s habits change, and in many places, people don’t read at all, to a point where many think we’re entering a ‘post-literate’ society

That’s the bad news.

The good news is that Sisters is still home to readers — and writers, too. We know that the community values their newspaper, because you tell us so — and many want to support their newspaper so that it does stay vital for years to come. And we continue to seek to find new ways to provide value for their support. There are now multiple ways that readers can directly support The Nugget that are easy and aren’t expensive but have a big impact:

Suppor ting Contributions: Direct contributions to The Nugget are allocated to support our outstanding stable of freelance reporters, columnists, and photographers. You can make a supporting contribution online at www.nuggetnews.com (hit the “Donate” button); or you can mail a check to P.O. Box 698, Sisters OR 97759; or (best of all) stop by the office at 442 E. Main Ave. We love to talk with our readers.

Subscribe to the “Nuggets From A Small Town” Substack: Substack is an online subscription platform for creators. “Nuggets From A Small Town” offers longer-form essays from Editor in Chief Jim Cornelius, for readers who like to engage with thoughtful writing on topics ranging from identity to the power of empathy, what we learn — or don’t — from histor y. This week’s essay looks at the importance of reading what it might mean to be a “post-literate society.” You can access “Nuggets From A Small Town” at https://jimcornelius609. substack.com. All subscriptions directly support The Nugget Newspaper

Online subscription: The content published on Substack and other subscriber-only content is available with an online subscription to nuggetnews.com. Click the subscribe button to sign up or call the office and we can assist you.

Print subscriptions cover only the cost of deliver y; the paper continues to be “free.”

Directly paying for our content is the best way readers can help us continue to provide it. It’s also vital to shop local and support the businesses that advertise in The Nugget — and provide Sisters with so much of its character

Change is inevitable, and more rapid than ever — but, with your help, we can preserve good things that “make Sisters Sisters.” With your suppor t, we can ensure that The Nugget is there for you each week to read “cover-to cover,” with more content for readers online. And maybe we will just go on forever.

Thank you,

Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief

The big picture

Ask yourself what lies beneath your feet in Sisters Country. If you answered aquifer, you’re probably imagining a vast underground lake. The reality is more complex, and in some ways more impressive.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), there is no single aquifer under Deschutes County. Instead, nearly the entire county sits atop the Upper Deschutes Basin regional aquifer system, one of the largest and most productive volcanic aquifer systems in the country.

It stretches across roughly 4,500 square miles, spilling well beyond county lines into parts of Jefferson, Klamath, and Lake counties. That’s notably larger than Deschutes County itself, which covers about 3,055 square miles.

Rather than a smooth layer of water, the aquifer is a labyrinth: thousands of interconnected fractures, lava tubes, cinders, and porous volcanic rock. In some spots the water-bearing formations run only a few hundred feet thick.

Beneath the High Cascades and the volcanic plateau, though, groundwater threads through fractured

lava flows to depths exceeding 2,000 feet. That permeability explains why municipal wells like ours in Sisters can pull hundreds to thousands of gallons per minute.

No one knows exactly how much water is down there, and that’s not for lack of trying.

Because the system isn’t a contained pool but a moving network, constantly draining from the Cascade Range toward the Deschutes River, scientists have found it nearly impossible to pin down a total volume. The USGS has instead focused its studies on tracking how the water flows rather than how much is stored.

One recent finding did offer a jaw-dropping estimate, at least for a related system. In 2025, University of Oregon researchers mapped a previously underappreciated aquifer beneath the crest of the Central Oregon Cascades and calculated it holds at least 81 cubic kilometers of groundwater, or about 66 million acre-feet.

That’s nearly three times the storage capacity of Lake Mead. Much of that highelevation water eventually surfaces in springs and rivers throughout the Deschutes Basin, though the researchers noted it isn’t confined to Deschutes County alone.

The stakes of understanding this system are hard to overstate locally. The aquifer supplies nearly all of the municipal water for Sisters, Bend, Redmond,

La Pine, and countless rural households. It also feeds the Deschutes River’s unusually steady, year-round flow, one of the most groundwaterdependent rivers in North America, along with major springs that also sustain the Metolius.

Agriculture, fish habitat, and recreation across Central Oregon all trace back to this same underground network.

The picture in Sisters

Paul Bertagna, Sisters’ capital projects manager, and City Manager Jordan Wheeler are confident that both the quantity and quality of our water is enviable. Sisters’ water comes from wells sunk hundreds of feet and tapping the water network.

It’s stored in a 1.6-million-gallon concrete storage tank. How much water is that? A lot. The average Oregonian uses about 80 gallons a day. For the 3,800 of us inside the city limits, that’s 31,000 gallons day, or a 42-day supply. But, the tank is continually refilled, every day.

The city pumps water out at the rate of 4,000 gallons per minute. How much is that? Roughly the equivalent of filling 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools a day.

The water is remarkably pure and free of contaminants. Only a small amount of chlorine is used at each well to insure purity. No fluoride is added.

Wheeler is not worried about running out.

of some of Oregon’s best water.

“We have until closer to the end of the next decade before we need to have a new source permitted or increase the capacity of the existing wells, as well as have the additional storage online,” he told The Nugget . “We are already well underway on our well improvements, distribution system improvements, and the reservoir project that were identified in the Master Plan.”

But the aquifer isn’t inexhaustible. It’s replenished by snowmelt and rain soaking into the Cascades’ porous volcanic rock, and the USGS

has documented localized groundwater declines in parts of the basin, tied to pumping, shifts in irrigation recharge, and climate variability. Overall, however, the system remains among the most productive groundwater resources in the western United States.

Perhaps the best way to picture it is not as an underground lake, but a 2,000-foot-thick sponge of fractured lava spanning 4,500 square miles, quietly moving water from the peaks of the Cascades to the rivers and taps of Sisters Country.

delays their approval of the UGB Amendment application beyond August, adverse financial impacts to the City are possible. If the UGB Amendment is not adopted and overall project completed by end of 2026, the City may be legally required to reassess the housing needs based on a new set of rules which could change the current residential land estimates, and thus require a new, albeit likely shorter, UGB expansion project into 2027.

Were the UGB Amendment to be approved by the City Council and County Board of Commissioners and acknowledged by the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) it would be adopted. The adoption would include the land (as defined in the preferred Concept Aa) within the City’s UGB and would rezone the land from Residential 10 to Urban Area Reserve 10 (UAR 10). While the land is

designated as UAR 10 and until annexation initiated by an owner, the land remains under the purview of the County.

Since their review of the UGB Amendment in late May, the County staff identified a gap in the Deschutes County Code (DCC) to protect wetland, riparian areas, and flood zones when the land use is UAR 10.

City Community Planning Director Scott Woodford shared July 9 that the City submitted text amendments to the County to correct the gap in the DCC and Deschutes County Comprehensive Plan.

Woodford added that to provide County staff sufficient time to review the text amendments to County documents and prepare for public hearings, the City requested that the County Planning Commission continue the City UGB application hearing to August 27 when both the County text amendments and the UGB Amendment application could be reviewed and approved.

Three letters from Oregon State entities had been received on June 4. The letters were discussed in the first hearing ending June 25 and the in the July 9 hearing. The

letters from Department of State Lands (DSL), DLCD, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed that there are Statewide Goal 5 resources (natural resources, scenic and historic areas, and open spaces) in the UGB expansion area and noted that the city would need to inventory and protect these resources once the UGB is adopted. Natural resources include wetlands, riparian areas, and flood zones.

The County Planning Commissioners understood the letters as signs that the City had not done a thorough job during the UGB expansion project and raised concerns. Woodford advised the Planning Commissioners that the Goal 5 areas within the UGB application included maps showing the natural resources along Whychus and Indian Ford creeks, and had been identified early on in the UGB expansion project by the City staff and UGB Steering Committee. He added that precautions were noted to further protect these lands and eventually enhance as parks to satisfy the required proportional 26 acres of park to support a 20-year population growth estimate.

Woodford shared that the UGB Amendment application requests more acreage than the UGB needs analysis required in order to assure the wetland areas would remain protected while still providing adequate land into the next 20 years for housing, industrial, and commercial development.

Representatives were present July 9 from State entities and confirmed that their letters were advisory, and that they supported the City UGB Amendment application. The DSL Aquatic Resource Planner Jessica Salgado, stated that after review of the 2022 Wetlands Inventory Report she found that one parcel within the UGB expansion area has wetlands on its property.

DLCD Senior Urban Planner Kevin Young told the County Planning Commission that the point of their letter was to assure that the County and City are aware of the requirement to protect the Goal 5 resources and that DLCD “are not opposed in any way to [the City UGB Amendment] application.”

Planning Commission Chair Matt Cyrus asked if the City considered whether landowners wanted to be in a UGB expansion or not and what would happen if they did not want to develop their land. Woodford explained that Oregon law does not require landowner consent to be included in the UGB, and it is not a specific criterion for a UGB expansion project. He added that deferring to owner opinions (which change, land is sold, etc.,) could potentially preclude many UGB expansions from occurring. Woodford added that the primary consideration in planning a UGB expansion “is the suitability of the land to best meet the identified needs over the next 20 years.”

During public testimony four expressed opposition to the UGB Amendment and two were in support. The public hearing maybe watched at www.deschutes county.gov, click on Meetings/Agendas, Past Meetings, July 9 Video. Written comments may be submitted to kyle.collins@ deschutes.org, from now into the hearing on August 27.

Nugget Poetry Corner

His Nose!

ByEdieJones

His nose twitc hes, & twitches, & twitches some mor e, The bush in the co rner, the gr een, plush floor of our lawn so inviting with lessons to lear n. He snif fs, and his br ain explodes and bu rns, with pathw ays that discover the world at his feet, ther e to explor e as he snif fs and hover s. His nose follows the beacons that call him to come and lead him far – f ar aw ay fr om places he knows. T his constant meandering helps him to gr ow fr om puppy to big do g, a pet so ador ed, who willingly cleans up my floor, and comes w hen he’s called, unless…his nose star ts to twitc h and leads him on. He alw ays will know w hic h way is the right one, w hic h way will be wr ong, w hic h way is shor t, w hic h way is long When allowed to r oam, untether ed or tied, He w ander s on – “I’m fr ee”, he cries Yet, His nose – a magnetic fo rce –makes sur e he’s bac k…for dinner, of cour se!

The Angler

Still w ater, calm lake.

ByLeoWilliams

Glimmering, shimmering tr outPluc k! Happy angler

A. I.

ByGabrielleBöhme

Hello A. I.

You blew in like a No rth wind. How br azen you ar e, Conquering ever ything on your way. Some fear you, other s embr ace you.

Ar e we living in your reality and we ar e the illusion?

Maybe you’ re a fantasy built on delusion.

Either way, ar e you our ne w certainty?

A pr omise of a better futur e.

Perhaps a master controller.

Ar e you here to stay?

Or will you blow away?

Only to r etur n in a muc h mor e... convincing, bolder way!

JOY ByBethEckert

Joy is an ener gy float

It comes w ashing

Over me gently

Silently tiptoeing

Sur rounds me like a blanket

Fier cely filling up

My soul

Still

Fleeting

Momentarily awesome

My spirit w aits

In my solitude

For the next burst

Of contented realization Emer ging in it’s quiet simplicity

Even

Constant

Out of reac h

My senses

Gently heightened

With sudden feelings

Of light and warming calm

Opening I thrive on this

Pur e peace

Holding stillness

As my soul fills up once agai n

Embr acing all the bits

Of this joyfilled blissful pr esence

My gr ateful hear t r ejoices

With Gentle epiphanies of dee p But fleeting knowing

DECLARATION: Event commemorated first public reading

Continued from page 3

of the Sisters community, from civic leaders to students. The audience listened attentively, then sang along with a rendition of Woody Guthrie’s “This Land Is Your Land,” before adjourning to enjoy ice cream and mingle on a warm and lovely summer day.

The 13 readers of the Declaration of Independence: Jennifer Letz, Sisters Mayor; Rennie Morrell, Retired Navy Lieutenant Commander and Executive Director of Sisters Transportation and

Ride Share (STARS); Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief, Nugget Newspaper ; Gayle Todd, Board President, Three Sisters Historical Society; Michael Preedin, Sisters City Councilor and Air Force veteran; Pat Bowe, Commander of VFW Post 8138; Mya Kidd, upcoming Sisters High School freshman; Cheryl Pellerin, Sisters City Councilor; Matt Cyrus, Chair of the Deschutes County Planning Commission and 6th generation Central Oregon farmer; Tulee Few, upcoming Sisters Elementary School third grader; Sarah McDougall, Sisters City Councilor; Tobann Bionda, recent Sisters High School graduate; and Lance Trowbridge, Commander of

ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

CLASSIFIED RATES

COST: $3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate.

DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 5 PM preceding Wednesday publication.

PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. Major credit cards accepted with a 3% processing fee. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four weeks.

CATEGORIES:

101 Real Estate FOR SALE

4 BR, 2 BATH CONDO AT BLACK BUTTE RANCH

Fabulous views, newly updated Lodge Condos #35 & 36

Great location on the ranch!

corrielake.realtor@gmail.com

Stellar Realty NW 541-521-2392

HOME FOR SALE

1005 E. Horse Back Trail 1807 SF single level

3 BD/2BA $689,000. 541-420-1143

Updated home, easy 55+ living. $395,000 541-316-8025

4 bed, 1,900 SF, faces park. $535,000 541-316-8025

102 Commercial Rentals

STORAGE WITH BENEFITS

•8 x 20 dry box

•Fenced yard, RV & trailers •In-town, gated, 24-7 EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com

MINI STORAGE

Sisters Rental

331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631

Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor RV parking. 7-day access. Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies.

103 Residential Rentals

CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS

Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792

Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com

104 Vacation Rentals

Downtown Vacation Rentals

Popular 1 and 2 Bedroom www.SistersVacationRentals.net

Great pricing. 503-730-0150

202 Firewood

DRY SPLIT CORDS $250

CUT OFFS $100 • COMPOST SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS

DAVE ELPI – FIREWOOD •SINCE 1976 • Fuel Reduction Forestry

Doug Fir – Lodgepole –Hardwood – Juniper – Fir

DRIVE-IN WOOD SALES

–18155 Hwy. 126 East –SistersForestProducts.com Order Online! 541-410-4509

205 Garage & Estate Sales

“Timeless Treasures” Sale Sat., July 18, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Fundraiser for nonprofit Three Sisters Historical Society

Held in the air-conditioned Sisters Fire Station Community Hall, 301 S. Elm St., Sisters Antiques, artwork, home goods, jewelry, collectibles, tech, tools, garden, sporting goods, kid stuff. Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions! Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths?

Locally owned & operated by...

Daiya 541-480-2806

Sharie 541-771-1150

Friday - Sunday, July 17-19

7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guns, antiques, fishing, hunting, camping, snow blower, Makita power tools, custom-built dog box, 1968 Aloha 12' canned ham trailer, house furniture, art, 3/4" Proto socket set, knives, cast iron, small pontoon boat, exercise bike, 55" round saw blade, too much to list! NO JUNK! 18130 Wanona Rd, Sisters (off Holmes Rd)

301 Vehicles

HEATED GARAGE power, lights, security. $275/mo. Jack 541-419-2502

We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Call Jeff at 541-815-7397

Sisters Car Connection da#3919 SistersCarConnection.com

302 Recreational Vehicles

2021 Tiffin Open Road Allegro

34PA, $120,000, 43,300 miles, Ford 7.3 liter gas engine, new tires, many upgrades. Shown by appointment. Mark 541-668-1524 or Deb 402-496-9579.

401 Horses

Orchard Grass Hay For Sale

$250/ton, 541-408-6258 ALFALFA TRITICALE

ORCHARD GRASS HAY

New 2026 crop. Barn stored. 3-tie bales. $250-$350/ton. Hwy. 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895

403 Pets

Mini Golden Doodle Puppies

Special pricing considerations for seniors and service dog prospects goldenlegacydoodles.com 541-647-7630

SISTERS WHISKERS

Your purr-fect friend is waiting for you at our local nonprofit cat rescue! Apply to adopt at: sisterswhiskers.org

I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Julie 541-306-7551

Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875

500 Services

Junk Removal, Dumpster Rentals & Demolition Services – Done Right. Remove-Junk.com 541-719-8475

CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS

Bend Window Works, LLC is offering a 10% discount on new window coverings. FREE in-home consultation. Same day in-home repair services available. New and repaired blinds make rentals look better! Contact us at 541-383-2455 or andy@bendblinds.com.

•DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call 541-419-1279

SMALL Engine REPAIR

Lawn Mowers, Chainsaws & Trimmers

Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631

Authorized service center for Stihl, Honda, Ariens/Gravely, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki Engines

502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

M & J CARPET CLEANING Area rugs, upholstery, tile & dryer-vent cleaning. Established & family-owned since 1986. 541-549-9090

505 Auto Repair BURLINGTON AUTOMOTIVE

Mobile Mechanic in Sisters Diagnostics, Inspections, Oil Change, Tune-up, and more! Wide variety of vehicles and skid steer loaders. (503) 509-9354

600 Tree Service & Forestry

4 Brothers Tree Service Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! –TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP –Native / Non-Native Tree

Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency Storm Damage Cleanup, Craning & Stump Grinding, Debris Removal.

–FOREST MANAGEMENT –Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects!

Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003 ** Free Estimates ** Owner James Hatley & Sons 541-815-2342 4brostrees.com

Licensed, Bonded and Insured CCB-215057

TimberStandImprovement.net Tree Removal & Pruning TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 541-771-4825

T H E N U G G E T N E W S P A P E R NuggetNews.com 541-549-9941

LOLO TREE WORKS

Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services. ISA Certified Arborist

Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638

Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com CCB #240912 •Wildfire Fuels reduction •Debris Chipping/Mastication •Forest Health Thinning •Wildfire Cleanup & Restoration • Tree Removal Will Moore, 541-409-5404 ISA Certified Arborist We are the experts you’ve been looking for! LCB# 100129 & Oregon Professional Logger 71395048

Tree Removal • Tree Pruning Good for Trees. Good to People. SparTreeArborist.com (916)619-6317 601 Construction

Construction & Renovation

Custom Residential Projects All Phases • CCB #148365 541-420-8448

Custom Homes • Additions Residential Building Projects Serving Sisters area since 1976 Strictly Quality CCB #16891 • CCB #159020 541-280-9764 John Pierce jpierce@bendbroadband.com

Level: Difficult Answer: Page 23

Landscape & Construction LLC

CCB#224224

LCB#8874

Serving Oregon since 1991

503-849-6090

Creating beautiful outdoor living spaces * custom patios & decks *water & fire features * outdoor kitchens * pavilions * barns everythingoutdoors@ymail.com

Rooted in family, Built with pride

Lara’s Construction LLC.

CCB#223701

Offering masonry work, fireplaces, interior & exterior stone/brick-work, build barbecues, and all types of masonry. Give us a call for a free estimate 541-350-3218

Uncompromising quality. Local and personal. You can trust me. All projects: From new construction to those little projects you don't seem to get to.

My team of local subcontractors and I will get it done right, fair, and pain-free so you can make your spouse happy. Call Jared 503-949-9719

CASCADE GARAGE DOORS

Factory Trained Technicians

Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553

Custom Homes

Additions - Remodels

Residential Building Projects

Becke William Pierce

CCB# 190689 • 541-647-0384

Beckewpcontracting@gmail.com

— Serving Sisters Since 2010 —

LOCAL CONSTRUCTION

SERVICES & HOME MAINT.

Remodels • Landscaping

Firewise Maintenance

Decks & Much More!

Pease Co. Contracting Call Tanner at 541-588-0136. Big and small jobs!

CCB# 256258

Home Hardening Services / Assessments / Ember Defense

Retrofits / Vulcan Vent Certified / Gain Defensible Space CCB# 218954

www.cascadiadesignbuildllc.com

Call Adam 541-974-2282

Earthwood Timber

•Recycled fir and pine beams

•Mantels and accent timbers

•Sawmill/woodshop services

EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com

602 Plumbing & Electric

A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com

Sisters Owned and Operated Serving all of Central Oregon

•Residential • Commercial

•Industrial • Service

Hot tubs/Saunas • Generators

Car Chargers • Panel Upgrades Light upgrades 541-588-3088 • CCB #234821

SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC.

“Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling

•New Construction

•Water Heaters

541-549-4349

Residential and Commercial

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

CCB #87587

Electrical Service & Repair

Est. 1947, CCB#54572

Local in Sisters 503-357-2146

603 Excavation & Trucking Full Service Excavation

Free On-site Visit & Estimate Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com

541-549-1472 • CCB #76888

Drainfield

•Minor & Major Septic Repair

•All Septic Needs/Design & Install

General Excavation

•Site Preparation

•Rock & Stump Removal

•Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation

BANR Enterprises, LLC

Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls

Residential & Commercial

CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977

www.BANR.net

604 Heating & Cooling

ACTION AIR

Heating & Cooling, LLC

Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com

CCB #195556

541-549-6464

Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service

Residential & Commercial

Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair 541-588-5667

SistersHeatingAir.com

Interior/Exterior Painting Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327

peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491

~ FRONTIER PAINTING ~ Quality Painting, Ext. & Int. Refurbishing Decks CCB #131560 • 541-771-5620 www.frontier-painting.com

606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance

Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, debris cleanups, fertility & water conservation management, excavation.

CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 www.vohslandscaping.com 541-515-8462

STEVE'S HAULING Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370

Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345

Alpine Landscape Maintenance An All-Electric Landscape Company.

Text/Call Paul 541.485.2837 alpine.landscapes@icloud.com

Pat Burke

LOCALLY OWNED

CRAFTSMAN BUILT

CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062

www.sistersfencecompany.com

•Building Demolition Trucking

•Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Boulders, Water

•Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly

•The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Whatever You Want!

701 Domestic Services

I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051

J&E Landscaping Maintenance LLC Clean-ups, irrigation, aerating, raking, mowing, thatching, hauling debris. Edgar Cortez 541-610-8982 jandelspcing15@gmail.com

–All You Need Maintenance –Pine needle removal, hauling, snow removal, moss removal, lawn care, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122

All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740

Eastern Cascade Solutions Landscaping & Construction www.easterncascadesolutions. com • 541-233-7195 LCB #9958 • CCB #222039

BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897

802 Help Wanted Part Time Sales Associate Love people, fabric, and creativity? Stitchin' Post is seeking a friendly, dependable team member to join our retail staff. Three days per week; may require weekends. Apply in person at Stitchin' Post, 311 W. Cascade Ave., Sisters, or email diane.j@stitchinpost.com.

FRAUD ALERT! "Driver to assist my parents with transportation twice in a week " If you saw this ad, Please DO NOT CONTACT THEM!! CALL THE NUGGET FOR MORE INFO AT 541-549-9941