The Nugget Vol. XLIX No. 33
POSTAL CUSTOMER
News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon
www.NuggetNews.com
Water district flows cut to 20 percent
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
PUSHING IN THE FIRE APPARATUS…
Correspondent
Correspondent
See IRRIGATION on page 5
PHOTO BY JIM CORNELIUS
In a tradition dating back to the 19th century, when firefighters had to push their horse-drawn apparatus back into the fire station bay by hand, the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District marked the activation of a new ambulance and fire engine in a push-in ceremony on Tuesday, August 11.
City snapshot: housing, contracts, Adams Avenue By Susan Cobb Correspondent
City of Sisters Council is considering a new Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) to add one more tool encouraging development of affordable housing. Council approved amendments to the city manager contract, and to the contract with Moore Iacafano Goltsman, Inc. (MIG). Council also received an update on the Adams Avenue improvement project. The workshop of August 12 first considered the creation of an IGA with Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) relative Oregon’s Moderate Income Housing Revolving Loan (MIRL) program. Council also received a status report on Community Planning’s work to help Deschutes County with county document updates in order to progress on the City’s Urban Growth Boundary (UGB)
Inside...
More steps to the UGB expansion By Susan Cobb
By Bill Bartlett After a healthy hay, alfalfa, and orchard grass crop year in 2025, this year is hitting the wall with the prolonged drought and crippling 20252026 snow year. A quick glance at the Three Sisters tells the story vividly with only a few patches here and there as July turned to August (see related story, page 1). Some farmers in Sisters Country are getting a second cut, but it’s not in all cases the ideal high leaf-to-stem ratio or fine texture. A good number of farmers were either
PRE-SORTED STANDARD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID Sisters, OR Permit No. 15
expansion application under review by the County Planning Commission (see story, page 1). Council’s goal to “pursue resources and partnerships for the development of affordable and workforce housing,” the pending UGB expansion, and the overall need of affordable housing for the middle-income buyers (incomes between 120 and 100 percent of area median income) are the drivers in considering one more housing development tool. Oregon’s MIRL Act was passed in 2024. It has since been improved through four cities in Oregon offering the program or in a stage of implementation. If the City offers this program, it would be the first city or county in Central Oregon to do so. Under the MIRL program, Oregon Housing and Community Services provide no interest loans to cities or See CITY on page 4
Letters/Weather ............... 2 Meetings .......................... 3
The City of Sisters Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion application remains in hearing status with the Deschutes County Planning Commission (CPC) until missing code details are addressed. The City is taking steps to rectify the missing code, and hopes to have approval by the CPC on the code amendments application in late August and for the UGB expansion application in September. The project to expand the City UGB had several unpredictable scheduling impacts: a couple of appeals, fire emergencies for the City this year and last, and discovery See UGB on page 17
Deepest drought in decades for C.O. By Paul Lipscomb Correspondent
Central Oregon is in the grip of one of the most severe droughts in the region’s modern history, as a record-warm winter and near-record-low snowpack push reservoirs, streams, and irrigation districts to their limits heading into late summer. As of early August, 21 of Oregon’s 36 counties — including all of Central Oregon — are under a state drought emergency, part of a run of six executive orders Governor Tina Kotek has signed since March. Statewide drought coverage hit 87 percent by mid-June, and officials say conditions are unlikely to ease before fall. “Communities across the state are being confronted with unprecedented drought conditions,” Kotek said in one of this year’s declarations. “My office and relevant state agencies are at the ready to assist affected communities address drought impacts and continue efforts to secure
a stronger, more climateresilient Oregon.” A winter that never showed up The roots of this year’s drought trace back to last winter, which tied 1934 as Oregon’s warmest on record, according to NOAA data cited by the Governor’s Office. The warmth meant precipitation that should have piled up as mountain snowpack instead fell as rain or simply didn’t materialize.
B y e a r l y F e b r u a r y, Deschutes Basin Watermaster Jeremy Giffin reported snowpack near Wickiup and Crane Prairie reservoirs — the reservoirs that feed irrigation and streamflow across the basin — at just 28% of normal, down from 126 percent a year earlier. More recently Griffin described the current situation this way: “We have a couple
Obituaries .....................6–7 Announcements................ 8
Recreation Guide .........9–16 Crossword .......................21
Classifieds.................22–23 Entertainment ................ 24
PHOTO BY PAUL LIPSCOMB
The mountains are virtually bare — indicative of deep drought conditions.
See DROUGHT on page 18
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
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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.
Bad map
To the Editor: I started to read Bill Bartlett’s “Three Creek lakes - a naming problem” Nugget article of August 12 with great interest, but then looked at the accompanying map and realized it was totally bogus. Where did that map come from? Pretty much everything about it is geographically incorrect. It is not oriented correctly (N-SE-W) nor are the relative placements of Three Creek Lake and Little Three Creek Lake, FS Road 16, and Sisters correct. Even the shapes of the lakes are wrong. Whychus Creek is misspelled (Whycus) and the outlet of Three Creek Lake is not even named — it is known as “Three Creek,” hence the name of the lake. Furthermore, none of the so-called “un-named creeks” from the lakes actually flow into Whychus Creek. How did this get past the editing process? Or, maybe
this is just a joke to see how many readers notice this blatant error? Greg Kallio Editor’s reply: As several readers pointed out, the map accompanying the story “Three Creek lakes — a naming problem” (The Nugget, August 12, page 7) was, well... bad. The map was pulled from a Google search as an illustration to include the unnamed creeks, and we simply weren’t paying close enough attention to catch some obvious anomalies. Sloppy on our part from the reporting through the editorial process. We appreciate our readers crying foul, and we are in the process of wiping the egg off our face that we’ve worn for a week so we can carry on with better attention to meeting our own standards. Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
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Fun at the fire station...
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More resources needed for some evacuees By Paige Marks-McGuire Guest Columnist
In Central Oregon, wildfire season is an accepted tradeoff for living in our beautiful environment. We’re all familiar with days when the air quality is so bad that going outside is actually unhealthy, and the thought of homes burning nags slightly in our minds. We’ve got amazing fire response teams. Organizations coordinate to donate funds, and provide shelter to evacuees. The community comes together to help each other out. However, evacuations still weigh more heavily on some than others. Elderly folks are less likely to receive evacuation notices. People with hourly jobs who can’t work remotely are often unable to leave their jobs and get out quickly. It takes much longer to pack up a motor home or hook up a trailer than it does to leave in a car. Those who don’t have insurance coverage for evacuation expenses bear the financial burden of evacuation much more heavily. While resources are available, like shelter and food, they are poor replacements for self-sheltering. They are an amazing resource, but they are public environments that aren’t ideal for evacuated families. It would still be better if people had somewhere else to go, or even a resource to pay for something like boarding their dogs. More resources should be provided to help folks that need to evacuate. Without them, people take longer to leave their homes and are more negatively impacted by the strain of evacuation. The federal government should provide services, such as the funds to self-shelter, to
evacuees quickly and without requiring the extensive documentation that FEMA currently asks for. This would prevent evacuees from facing the full financial burden caused by a natural disaster, a factor totally out of their control. According to the Federal Reserve, only about 63 percent of Americans can pay for an expense of $400 with cash. We should not leave people to struggle alone — not if we can help it. Natural disasters impact people across the United States. It’s not fair to expect counties or states to be able to help families in need. Either state agencies need to be set up and given more funding, or federal agencies need to do more. More services should be provided, and the main thing preventing the establishment of helpful ones is a lack of data. We can’t fix problems we don’t see or understand, so more information is needed to understand what might work. There is no statistic available on how many people, or what percent of homeowners, have homeowners’ insurance that provides coverage for evacuations. There’s not accurate data on how many people are making a livable wage across the United States. There’s not information on where people of different demographics go when evacuating. This lack of information is preventing the establishment of better supports for the public to rely on. We need more services, and we need data to make sure they’ll work. Natural disasters are becoming increasingly common across the U.S., we need to make sure that everyone affected by them is as supported as possible.
Views expressed in this column are solely those of the writer and are not necessarily shared by the Editor or The Nugget Newspaper.
Sisters Weather Forecast
Young enthusiasts got to explore the new Sisters fire apparatus after community members ceremoniously pushed it into a bay. PHOTO BY AIMEE HAMMONDS
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
August 19 Partly Cloudy
August 20 Mostly Sunny
August 21 Partly Cloudy
August 22 Sunny
91/55
93/60
87/54
80/47
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
August 23 Sunny
August 24 Sunny
August 25 Partly Cloudy
83/49
86/51
84/49
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
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Adams Avenue changes take shape roughly 80-foot-wide corridor between Cedar and Pine streets, is now well underway. It’s a big job. Crews are putting in new concrete sidewalks, wider asphalt paths for both walkers and cyclists, fresh pavement, more onstreet parking, stormwater upgrades, underground electrical work, new street lighting, and roughly 200 new trees. Seven decorative intersection circles are planned too, dressing up what has long been one of downtown’s rougher edges. “New sidewalks and paths will increase bike and pedestrian safety and
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent & Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
PHOTO PROVIDED
A Sisters Trails Alliance crew during work on National Trails Day.
STA secures major project grant Sisters Trails Alliance (STA) has been awarded a $158,000 Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) for the Sisters Trail Additions & Realignments (STAR) project. The grant, funded through the Federal Highway Administration and passed through OPRD, covers about 80 percent of the project’s $200,000 total cost. STA and its partners are providing the remaining $42,000 through matching funds and volunteer labor. The STAR project, approved by the Sisters Ranger District in fall 2025, is the first major trail expansion in the district in more than 15 years. With 18 separate trail actions, the STAR
plan calls for nearly 17 miles of new trail, the formalization of 30 miles of existing routes, and the realignment of about 12 miles of trail to improve wildlife habitat and the user experience across the system. This RTP grant will fund construction, realignment, and improvement of approximately 53 miles of that plan, along with new maps, signage, and trailhead kiosks. The project is scheduled for completion by August 2028. “The complexity of this project may surprise some if only viewing it at face value as ‘just a trails project’,” said Sisters Ranger District Recreation Staff Officer Emily Long. “However, designing and implementing this extent of trails
across multiple user types, varying landscapes, with all resource values considered, is no easy feat. The years of work leading up to this point and which continues now is something to applaud. It’s incredible to have so many different partners not only at the table and engaged, but collaborating and coordinating efforts to make this project a success. What an honor to receive such financial support from the RTP program, as well as donations to and from our partners to bring this project across the finish line. The Sisters Ranger District and Deschutes National Forest are bolstered by the STAR partners, and many others See STA on page 20
After eight years of planning, meetings, and false starts, Adams Avenue is finally getting the facelift the City of Sisters promised back in 2018. “I am excited to see the Adams Avenue project finally come to fruition! This has been a key project in our Urban Renewal Plan for a number of years and soon we’ll get to see Adams match the other streets in downtown,” said Sisters Mayor Jennifer Letz. T h e A d a m s Av e n u e Streetscape Improvement Project, a full rebuild of the
See ADAMS AVE. on page 19
After the flames: how forests come back look at how these forests heal. A mosaic, not a wipeout The first thing to understand is that fire rarely burns evenly. A single blaze typically leaves a patchwork of lightly touched ground, moderately burned patches, and areas where almost nothing survived. Ponderosa pine, so much of what surrounds Sisters, is built for this. Thick bark, high crowns, and heat tolerance make it one of the toughest trees in the West,
By Bill Bartlett Correspondent
A wildfire moving through a Central Oregon forest doesn’t erase it. It resets it, and what grows back over the following decades often looks nothing like what burned. That’s the picture emerging from years of research on local fires, including the 2002 Eyerly Fire, the 2003 B&B Complex fires, the 2012 Pole Creek Fire, and the 2017 Milli Fire, all of which have given scientists a long-term
See FIRE RECOVERY on page 21
SISTERS AREA MEETING CALENDAR BOARDS, GROUPS, CLUBS Al-Anon Mon., noon, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 541-610-7383. Alcoholics Anonymous Monday, 5 p.m., Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Tuesday, noon, Big Book study, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church • Wednesday, 7 a.m.,Gentlemen’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., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration • Friday, noon, Step & Tradition meeting, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. 541-548-0440. Saturday, 8 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration • Sunday, 7 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration Bible Study for All Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. at The Lodge. 541-233-6189. Central Oregon Fly Tyers Guild For Saturday meeting dates and location, email: steelefly@msn.com. Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) Sisters Chapter meets monthly for a meeting, group bike ride, or event. Contact sistersrep@cotamtb.com for info.
Citizens4Community Community Builders meeting, 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Visit citizens4community.com for location. Council on Aging of Central Oregon Senior Lunch In-person community dining, Tues. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grab-and-go lunch Tues., Wed., Thurs. 12:30 to 1 p.m. Sisters Community Church. 541-480-1843. East of the Cascades Quilt Guild 4th Wed. (September-June), Stitchin’ Post. All are welcome. 541-549-6061. Go Fish Fishing Group 3rd Monday, 7 p.m., Sisters Community Church. 541-771-2211. Heartwarmers (fleece blanketmakers) 2nd Tuesday, 1 p.m., Sisters Community Church. Materials provided. 541-408-8505. Living Well With Dementia Sisters Care Partner Support Group. 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Community Recreation Center. 541-588-0547. Military Parents of Sisters Meetings are held quarterly; please call 541-388-9013. Oregon Band of Brothers Sisters Chapter meets Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Takoda’s Restaurant. 541-549-6469. Sisters Aglow Lighthouse 4th Saturday, 10 a.m., meeting by Zoom. 503-930-6158.
Sisters Area Photography Club 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church. 541-549-6157. Sisters Area Woodworkers First Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m. 541-231-1897. Sisters Bridge Club Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. at Sisters Community Church. Email sistersbridge2021@gmail.com. Sisters Caregiver Support Group 2nd & 4th Weds., 1-2:30 p.m. Sisters Rec. Community Center. 541-588-0547. (Meets with Living Well With Dementia Sisters). Sisters Cribbage Club Wednesdays, 11 a.m. at The Lodge, 411 E. Carpenter Lane. 509-947-5744. Sisters Garden Club For monthly meetings visit: SistersGardenClub.com. Sisters Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors 4th Tuesday, 4:30 p.m. Location information: 541-549-1193. Sisters Kiwanis 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at SPRD in Sisters. 541-632-3663. Sisters Parent Teacher Community 2nd Tuesday, 6 p.m. at Sisters Elementary School Commons. 917-219-8298. Sisters Rotary 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Noon to 1 p.m., at SPRD. 541-760-5645.
Sisters Veterans no-host lunch, Thursdays, noon, Takoda’s Restaurant. All veterans welcome, 541-241-6563. Sisters Trails Alliance Board Meetings take place every other month, 5 p.m. In-person or zoom. Contact: info@ sisterstrails.org. Songwriters Sharing Circle All ages welcome. 2nd Wednesday, 6 p.m., at The Hub, 541-977-8494. Three Sisters Irrigation District Board of Directors Meets 2nd Tuesday, 10 a.m., TSID Office. 541-903-4050. Three Sisters Lions Club 3rd Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Spoons Restaurant. 541-410-7390. VFW Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 1st Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., The Hub, 291 E. Main Ave. sistersveterans@gmail.com.
SCHOOLS Black Butte School Board of Directors 2nd Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. 541-595-6203. See schedule www.blackbutte.k12.or.us/ Sisters School District Board of Directors One Wednesday monthly, Sisters School District Administration Building. See schedule at www.ssd6.org. 541-549-8521 x5002.
CITY & PARKS
Sisters City Council 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022. Sisters Park & Recreation District Board of Directors 2nd Tues., 4 p.m., Sisters Community Recreation Center. 541-549-2091. Sisters Planning Commission 3rd Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Sisters City Hall. 541-549-6022.
FIRE & POLICE Black Butte Ranch Police Dept. Board of Directors Meets monthly. 541-595-2191 for time & date. Black Butte Ranch RFPD Board of Directors 4th Thurs., 9 a.m., BBR Fire Station. 541-595-2288. Cloverdale RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Wed., 5:30 p.m., 67433 Cloverdale Rd. 541-548-4815. cloverdalefire.com. Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Board of Directors 3rd Tuesday, 9 a.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 541-549-0771. Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD Drills Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Sisters Fire Hall, 301 S. Elm St. 541-549-0771.
This listing is for regular Sisters Country meetings; email information to nugget@nuggetnews.com.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
CITY: Council continues to attend to community’s business Continued from page 1
counties. A funding break is offered by a city or county to developers covering the initial infrastructure expenses not to exceed 10 percent of the total cost of the development project. Annually the developed MIRL property taxes paid are processed by the County Tax Assessor deducting a percentage to replenishing the MIRL funds. The loan length is minimally 10 years to a maximum of 15. There is an alternative program under MIRL but the City will likely implement the process just described. The Council gave a nod to moving forward with drafting an IGA with COIC under the MIRL program. The IGA contracts COIC to administrate the program for the City. The Council hopes the program is implemented by the time the UGB application is approved or no later than when annexing becomes possible. During public comments, Sisters Habitat for Humanity Director Peter Hoover thanked Council for considering the MIRL program, noting the nonprofit would certainly utilize it when available. Council approved two amendments to the city manager (CM) contract. One increased the matching contribution to the supplemental deferred compensation plan from $6,000 to $9,000 — a financial impact of up to $3,000 annually. The other amendment was a change to the CM’s severance provision when terminated without cause. Currently it is seven months’ pay at termination. Henceforward, the severance amount will increase annually from initial employment date contract by one month until reaching a maximum of a 12-month severance.
The Council agreed to a Public Works staff request to surplus 68 bales of hay cuttings (about 75 pounds per bale) valued at $3,000. The bales will be auctioned off by Oregon State and funds returned to the submitting municipality. Various surplus items are auctioned here: https://www.oregon.gov/ das/surplus/pages/index.aspx future needs. The City’s fiscal year 2026-27 budget includes $5,000 for Council training, meetings, and conferences. Council approved funds to attend the annual League of Oregon Cities conference of workshops and for lodging. The total cost for all five councilors is $4,700.20, leaving very limited funds for any additional training. The City has contracted with MIG to provide professional services in support of the City’s UGB expansion project. Since the project has experienced unforeseen setbacks (appeals, County code omissions, and two major fire threats), the contract has exceeded its planned duration. The first amendment to the MIG contract with the City occurred January 1 to extend the contract to June 30. Although there are enough funds for MIG to support the adoption of the pending UGB expansion application, completing the Area Planning phase of the overall UGB project will need more time and funds. The second amendment to
their contract, which Council approved during the regular meeting on August 12, pushes the end date to June 2027 and adds $61,720 to the total budget of the contract. During the area planning phase, MIG will: • Be the project manager • Involve stakeholders in workshops MIG arranges and oversees • Arrange and manage several public engagements as deliverables (base area maps and concept area map options) are ready to present and receive public input upon • Create and maintain a webpage on the City’s website for public review of the area plan project. The stakeholders are impacted property owners, City staff, Sisters School District, Sisters–Camp Sherman Fire District, Sisters Park & Recreation District, Central Oregon Builders Association, Central Oregon Land Watch, and Oregon Departments of Transportation, Land Conservation and Development, and Fish and Wildlife. City Manager Jordan Wh eel er rep o rt ed t h at the Adams Avenue street improvement project is nearing completion (see story, page 3). Making improvements to the length of the avenue, rather than by block, dramatically reduced the project expense and duration.
Sisters woman seriously injured in accident On Friday, August 7, Jill Paulus was walking through a crosswalk at the intersection of McKinney Butte Road and Brooks Camp Road when she was hit by a F-550 two-ton truck. Paulus, 79, suffered serious injuries and was transported to St. Charles Medical Center. She spoke to The Nugget from the hospital on Monday, August 17, where she is recovering from multiple injuries, including broken ribs and pelvis, contusions to her knee, and a cut above her eye. She does not remember being hit. “I always use the crosswalk; I was in the crosswalk,” she said. “That’s all I remember.” She told The Nugget that she is “too old for this... to be happening to me.” According to Oregon State Police, who took the emergency call, the privately owned two-ton firefighting truck was traveling westbound on West McKinney Butte Road in Sisters. At the intersection of West McKinney Butte Road and North Brooks Camp Road, the truck drove into the 79-year-old female pedestrian who was walking northbound in a marked crosswalk.
The driver of the truck reportedly stated that “he was going to play ‘frisbee golf’ (at Hyzer Pines) behind the Sisters High School and looked down at his energy drink when he drove forward through the intersection. According to OSP, the driver of the truck “stated the sun was also in his eyes and he did not see the pedestrian in the cross walk.” The driver of the private firefighting truck, who hails from California, was issued a citation for Fail to Stop for Pedestrian in Crosswalk. A Forest Service Officer, Black Butte Police, and Deschutes County Sheriff ’s Office assisted at the scene. Pedestrian safety has been a primary concern of local residents for years. On February 6, an 81-year-old was struck and killed while crossing East Cascade Avenue. In a November 2024 public safety survey by the City of Sisters, local residents listed speeding and pedestrian safety as significant concerns. The survey reported that, “There are frequent reports of near misses involving pedestrians, especially near schools and busy intersections. Better crosswalk visibility, lights, and traffic calming measures are recommended.”
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Resident Volunteers are an important part of fire district By Michael Zoormajian Correspondent
As wildland firefighting heroes battle blazes across the nation, The Nugget took a step closer to learn about Sisters’ own local fire department. Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District (SCSFD) provides fire suppression and emergency medical services to the town of Sisters and surrounding rural areas. Firefighter paramedics help the Sisters community feel safe and secure in our slice of high desert paradise. A little known — yet essential — piece of the emergency response structure in the Sisters area is Resident Volunteers (RVs). An RV is a full-time, live-in volunteer position at Sisters Fire. RVs are trained and mentored under the firefighter/paramedics of SCSFD. They assist in emergency response and fire suppression, both on ambulances and fire apparatus. The RV program was born from the idea of a symbiotic relationship between people looking to enter a competitive field of work, and a rural fire department with increasing demands for volunteers and staff to serve the needs of a growing area. Resident Volunteers are selected through a process called joint recruitment. Hosted in conjunction with Central Oregon Community College (COCC), students from all walks of life line up to be put through a physical agility test along with a verbal panel interview. The demographics of these candidates span from fresh high school graduates, to folks with prior established careers. This panel includes representatives from each similar Central Oregon student program. The testing process is competitive. Students generally apply for multiple agencies in a single testing cycle. Not every student walks away with an offer from the department they applied for. “It was very nerve-wracking,” Trevor Wallace, a thirdyear RV lieutenant said, “but at the same time eye-opening and exciting” Upon selection, RVs are given dorm housing at the See VOLUNTEERS on page 17
IRRIGATION: Water concerns are serious for agriculture Continued from page 1
unprepared for the forecast water shortage or abandoned altogether watering for a second cutting. Three Sisters Irrigation District cut its delivery on July 30 to its 1,895 water rights users to 20 percent. A year ago in August, water was still flowing at 40 percent, typical for the District. Emilia Ellington is the District’s manager. “I can’t remember a time like this,” she said. “It’s worse for almost everybody else. With nearly all of our water now in enclosed pipes and not in open canals, virtually all water gets to the fields.” Over 56 miles of the 60-mile system is piped. Situated east of the Cascade foothills in an area running northeast from Whychus Creek through the Cloverdale area, and down McKenzie Canyon to Lower Bridge, the Three Sisters Irrigation District provides irrigation water to the 7,572 acres of certified water rights appurtenant to land owned by farming and ranching interests located within its boundaries. Ellington doesn’t anticipate any damage to equipment as a result of the low flow. She agrees with general assessments and predictions for another bad year to come. But she’s thinking that with the addition of supply wells slated for 2027, they can prevent an outright disaster.
“We are learning lessons from this year and will make adjustments,” Ellington said. “Some things are beyond our control such as users taking more than their allotment. It hurts their neighbors.” Forecast bleak Central Oregon’s outlook for winter 2026–2027 is being shaped by a strengthening El Niño pattern, according to the consensus view from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center and other long-range outlooks. The dominant signal points to below-normal precipitation across the region and the broader Pacific Northwest. That’s a typical El Niño effect: The pattern tends to push the Pacific jet stream south toward California and the southern U.S., pulling large-scale storm systems away from Oregon and reducing the frequency of sustained precipitation events. Temperatures are expected to run above normal as well, which carries its own consequences for winter conditions. Warmer air raises freezing and snow levels, meaning more precipitation is likely to fall as rain or a rain-snow mix at lower and mid-elevations, including valley floors around Central Oregon, rather than accumulating as snow. That combination points to a slower, thinner build of mountain snowpack across the Cascades this season, particularly below the tree line. Higher terrain, such as the upper mountain at Mt. Bachelor, is better positioned to capture and hold snow, but the region’s overall snowpack is at risk of running below average.
None of this rules out variability within the season — cold snaps, atmospheric river events, and heavy individual snowfall episodes remain possible even in a milder, drier winter overall. But the seasonal signal favors a warmer, drier pattern than a typical year. Markets affected Central Oregon’s multimillion dollar hay market spanning Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties remains defined by tight water supplies and a widening gap between retail and commercial pricing. Irrigation cutbacks from districts like Three Sisters, Arnold, and Central Oregon irrigation districts have kept acreage limited, pushing growers toward high-value crops like premium orchard grass and Supreme-grade alfalfa aimed at local horse owners rather than lowermargin commercial feeder hay. That scarcity has deepened a longstanding split in pricing by bale type and end use. The U.S. Department
of Agriculture reports that large, three-foot-by-fourfoot square bales headed to export markets or commercial dairies trade at comparatively modest prices, while small three-tie bales sold to local stables and retail feed stores command significant premiums. On the demand side, export interest in regional alfalfa and grass holds steady, but stays price sensitive, and commercial dairy demand has eased somewhat amid broader shifts in national forage supply, though locally grown hightest alfalfa remains hard to find. With summer cuttings finishing up, barn-stored small squares are positioned to hold firm through fall and winter, supported by consistent horse-owner demand and thin local inventory. Buyers seeking clean, barnstored second cut orchard or alfalfa-grass mixes should expect top-tier prices, particularly as fuel and transport costs keep hay shipped in from outside the region expensive, USDA reports.
Create your dream life in Sisters! 70440 Li Linnaea B Borealis, li Bl Black kB Butte tt R Ranch h
Experience the craftsmanship and privacy of this 5-bedroom (main-level primary), 3-bath home. The 1.5+ acre lot affords peace and luxury. Step into comfort with vaulted ceilings, a soaring basalt fireplace, and forest views. $1,895,000 $ , , MLS#220218217
16921 Lady Caroline Dr., Sisters
Soaring vaulted ceilings and expansive windows drench the interior with light and showcase the stunning scenery. Three en suite bedrooms on main, and a large en suite bonus room with wet bar and full bath upstairs. Below assessed value. $1,699,000 MLS#220220342
715 N. Brooks Camp Rd., Sisters
Convenient to downtown and schools! 2-story, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 1,743 sq. ft. home with private backyard and 3-car garage. Luxurious upstairs primary with mountain views, dual vanity, and generous walk-in closet. $570,000 MLS#220220530
720 N. Hindeman St., Sisters
BOOKING SPRING DECK REFINISHING PROJECTS NOW!
Low-stress living with access to all that Sisters has to offer in this lovingly cared for 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 1,691 sq. ft. townhome. Off-street parking, alley access, and a garage add convenience and exceptional storage. $489,000 0 M MLS#220217074 LS# S#22 2202 0 1707 0744
243 W. Adams Ave., Sisters
Don’t miss your front-row spot on Adams Avenue improvements! Incomeproducing cottage (previously a monthly rental) sits on 2 lots zoned “Downtown Commercial.” Keep as a single-family home or max out the commercial opportunities. $449,000 , MLS#220217392
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Level, ready-to-build properties with water and sewer at the street. Parklike setting with mature ponderosas adjacent to Whychus Creek. Near schools, galleries, restaurants, etc. 691 S. Elm St., Sisters $244,500 MLS#220214722 157 W. Black Crater Ave., Sisters $239,000 MLS#220219492
Jen McCrystal, Broker
541-420-4347 jennifermccrystal@ stellarnw.com
6
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Obituaries Jeff Reynolds
February 1, 1955 – August 2, 2026
Jeff Reynolds passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at the age of 71, after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer. He was born on February 1, 1955, in Lebanon, Oregon, to Catherine and Dale Reynolds. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 40 years, Gayle, and a loving father to his daughter, Lindsey, and a loving grandfather to his granddaughter, Ruby. Jeff was always a very active kid and enjoyed camping, fishing, biking, and any kind of sport. Jeff was in Boy Scouts as a kid and really enjoyed all the camping trips and hiking outings. In high school, he was involved in sports and FFA (Future Farmers of America). He participated in football, wrestling, and track all four years of high school, lettering multiple years in each sport. Jeff was also active in FFA with cows, sheep, and pigs, and served as FFA President his senior year. He graduated from Lebanon Union High School in 1973. Jeff went on to college at Eastern Oregon State College in La Grande, Oregon, and continued to participate in track. He went to the National Track Championships twice, at Arkadelphia, AR, in 1975 and 1977. For his final year of college, Jeff transferred to Southern Oregon State College in Ashland, Oregon, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1978. While Jeff was in Ashland, he hiked up
to the top of Mt. Shasta, elevation 14,162 feet. Jeff started his career in business, and worked at five different corporations over his first 19 years, and then pursued a new career in education over the next 19 years. He worked with special needs students in the classroom and coached cross country, wrestling, basketball, and track at several different middle schools and high schools. His middle school basketball record was 27378, and he played every kid in every quarter. Jeff retired from coaching in 2017. He also participated in the King County Big Brothers Program for some time, spending time with two middle schoolers. Whether spending time with kids in the Big Brothers Program, working with special needs students or young athletes, enjoying a game with fellow sports fans, teasing his nieces and nephews, or introducing himself to someone he had never met, Jeff had a unique ability to make people feel included and find out about them. Jeff never met a stranger, and he had a fantastic memory when he met someone again — who they were, where he had met them, and their circumstances. Jeff met his wife, Gayle, at a University of Washington
football game, and after dating a few months, they married on June 28, 1986. A few years later, they adopted their daughter, Lindsey. Lindsey enjoyed playing with her friends, and loved her pets — a dog, cat, and rabbit. In middle school, she took up playing trombone, and running cross country. Jeff and Gayle were extremely supportive of her activities. Lindsey always loved horses, and Jeff and Gayle bought her a horse, Brandy, when she was 13, and boarded the horse so she could ride frequently. The family made the choice to move to Sisters, OR, to a home with a horse pasture, so they could have Brandy at home, and Lindsey continued to pursue her equestrian interests. Lindsey graduated from Sisters High School in 2008, and went on to Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming, in Equestrian Studies for one year. Lindsey still lives in the area in Terrebonne, OR. Jeff loved spending time with their only grandchild, Ruby. He and Ruby would hike to local parks and play and swim, or take bike rides. They did numerous outdoor activities including Jerry’s Jet Boats on the Rogue River, some tubing, and some whitewater rafting. Ruby also loves horses and has a horse named Dixie. Ruby will be a
junior at Crook County High School next year. Through the years, sporting events were a big part of Jeff’s life. Jeff and Gayle attended many games for Washington and Oregon fo o t b al l t e a m s . G a y l e attended games that Jeff was coaching or refereeing. Jeff attended Track and Field Championships and U.S. Track Olympic Trials, sometimes watching former students from his middle and high schools. Jeff participated in many fun runs, including six marathons, and lots of organized bike rides, 5K, 10K, and more famous ones like the STP (Seattle to Portland) and RAGBRAI in Iowa. Jeff had a lifelong goal of watching at least one baseball game in each of the 30 Major League Baseball stadiums, and he achieved this goal in 2021. As a big dog lover, having dogs was always important to Jeff. When he met Gayle, she had a basset hound named Bruno. They then went on to have three more basset hounds, Barney, Lulu, and Rosie. Their next dog was a lab-mix named Hailey, and then for a short time they had a chocolate lab named Bella, adopted from a neighbor. Jeff really had a special bond with their last dog, Zoey, a black lab, who they had
for 10 years. Jeff and Gayle did a lot of traveling during their marriage. Jeff and Gayle were on nine cruises, and visited 35 countries. Jeff was also in 44 of the 50 states in the U.S. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Catherine and Dale Reynolds. He is survived by his wife, Gayle, and his daughter, Lindsey (Andrew), and granddaughter, Ruby. He is also survived by his siblings, Wes (Sue), Julie, Angela (Dan), three nephews and four nieces. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 17, at 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy., Sisters, OR, 97759. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Stand Up to Cancer, P.O. Box 843721, Los Angeles, CA 90084-3721 or to a charity of your choice.
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OWN A PIECE OF HIST ORY! Historic cabins at Lake Creek Lodge For Sale as 1/4 Shares 3
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Seller Financing Available!
Phil Arends Principal Broker
Thomas Arends Broker
phil@arendsrealtygroup.com
thomas@arendsrealtygroup.com
541.420.9997
PONDEROSA PROPERTIES LLC
541.285.1535
LICENSED IN THE STATE OF OREGON
541-549-2002 | 178 S. Elm St., Suite 102/103, Sisters, OR 97759 | arendsrealtygroup.com
ArendsRealtyGroup.com
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
7
Sisters historian captures stories of veterans
D BEST BAR IN SISTERS! VOTE
memories and float in the lake with one another. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your nearest food bank in his honor. In his own words: tell me again how nothing will change how everywhere the natural engine cools how moonlight scrapes through a field of frozen alder how the water locks · tell me your energy is like freezing that it leaves one system in search for another & that it is simple to be stripped down to the very ounce to fall along the curvature of the earth in perfect balance & in such mystery
selling
but for the occasional faint noticing
FIREWOOD
— Year-round
of your ellipses in the icy sky
Fuel Reduction
—
as you tumble in & out of communion with the sun
Forestry —
SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS
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750 S. MAPLE ST., SISTERS
This 3-bedroom b d plus l b bonus room, 3 3-bath b th h home sits it on a spacious i .42-acre lot in Buck Run...no HOA! Open floorplan, wood floors, and abundant natural light fill the main level. Wood stove for cozy winter nights. Enjoy outdoor living on the covered and open-air back deck $995,000 MLS#220226646
Khiva Beckwith - Broker
541-420-2165
khivarealestate@gmail.com www.KhivaSellsCentralOregon
809 SW Canyon Dr. Redmond, Oregon
a comprehensive exploration of Oregon’s military heritage, and penned several insightful magazine articles. She has completed several short history films, bringing historical events to life for a broader audience, including a meticulously crafted, highly acclaimed documentary centered around the 41st Infantry Division during World War II, “Jungleers in Battle.” Through this project, she conducted numerous oral history interviews, capturing the poignant narratives of veterans who entrusted her with their memories. As a fellow veteran, having served during Desert Storm, Hamel shares a
PHOTO PROVIDED
Alisha Hamel has created an oral history of Oregon’s WWII veterans.
unique bond with these brave individuals. Paulina Springs Books is located at 252 W. Hood Ave.
Meat • Seafood Jerky • Cheeses Sandwiches Beer, Wine, Cider 110 S. SPRUCE ST. | 541-719-1186 | 9-6 DAILY BBR, DIXIES, FIVEPINE, HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, OLIVER LEMONS, RAY’S,
SISTERS COMMUNITY, YOU’RE INVITED TO
i&j Carpets
50th Anniversary Celebration! For 50 years, you’ve welcomed us into your homes and businesses, trusted us with your flooring projects, and supported our family business. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without our incredible Sisters community. As our way of saying THANK YOU, we’d love to
celebrate e e a e with yyou!
Free concert!
Wed., Aug. 26 • 3-7 p.m. At Oregon Spirit Distillery 740 NE 1st St., Bend FOOD TRUCKS ON SITE Giveaways! Family Friendly
SISTERS-CAMP SHERMAN RFPD, KIWANIS, LES SCHWAB, OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, SISTERS RENTAL, SUTTLE LAKE LODGE, SHIBUI, CENTRAL OREGON EYE CARE,
Louis Henry Vowell III died August 9, 2026, at the age of 36. Born in Riverside, CA, and raised in Central Oregon, Louis was fortunate to call many places home in his lifetime. Louis graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and went on to pursue a Masters from Columbia University. The early 2020s saw Louis return home to Central Oregon where he worked with artists in residence at Caldera and later as a manager at Crater Lake National Park. To know Louis was to know that he always had a side quest that he was dedicating his enthusiasm and energy toward. Louis enjoyed many hobbies including road biking through the streets of New York, along the water in Chicago, and on Oregon routes he created. He spent his hours climbing at Smith Rock with friends. On a winter’s chilly evening you may have seen him skiing on Hoodoo. On a sunny day you may have crossed paths with him and his motorcycle on the scenic drives he loved to take. Louis was both an avid reader and writer of poetry. He loved spending time with his family and friends, indulging in game nights, lake days, and always good food. Louis had an uncanny ability to make deep and genuine connections with people in every community he was a part of. He was passionate about many causes and was working toward a future PhD in poetry. His bright light, wit, and thoughtfulness will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A small memorial will be held at Crescent Lake on August 28, 2026, at 12 p.m. at the Simax Group Pavilion. Come speak your
Sisters author and military historian Alisha Hamel will present her book, “When Duty Called: An Oral History of Oregon’s World War II Veterans,” at Paulina Springs Books on Wednesday, August 26 at 6:30 p.m. “When Duty Called” is a series of engaging personal stories from Oregon World War II veterans who participated in some of the most well-known engagements of the war. These stories range from Pearl Harbor to the Bataan Death March to D-Day to the last bombing raid over Japan by a Hollywood star. Death, hardship, romance and humor are common themes. Ultimately these veterans wanted their stories remembered not for themselves, but for their buddies who did not make it home and for their families to understand the role they played in World War II. These veterans sat down with the author to tell their World War II stories in a series of video and oral history interviews. In the interest of making this book an attractive product to the general reader, the interviews are edited and organized into chapters that read like short stories. Alisha Hamel has worked in military history for over 20 years. She holds a master’s degree in military history with a specialization in World War II with her thesis on Australian-American relations during this pivotal period. She co-authored the book “Oregon Military” (Images of America series),
HIGH LAKES, SISTERS DRUG, METABOLIC MAINTENANCE, MID OREGON CREDIT UNION, AND MANY MORE BUSINESSES ... AND MANY, MANY RESIDENTIAL CLIENTS. THANK YOU!
Passed August 9, 2026
SISTERS ATHLETIC CLUB, SISTERS COMMUNITY CHURCH, SISTERS DENTAL,
Louis Henry Vowell III
8
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
541-382-3537
Hank
Meet Hank! Hank is a 2-yearold German Shepherd mix reported to be crate-trained and house-trained. He has lived with cats and other dogs and would love to meet any potential canine siblings before adoption to ensure he’s the best fit! If you’re interested in adopting Hank, stop by HSCO today!
— SPONSORED BY —
BROKEN TOP Veterinary Clinic
541-389-0391
SISTERS COMMUNITY
FOOD RESOURCES Free Lunches for Seniors
COACO offers no-cost social lunch every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. No reservations needed. No-cost Grab-N-Go lunches weekly on Wednesday and Thursday, from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Call 541-797-9367.
Weekly Food Pantry
CORE Market, located at 222 N. Trinity Way in Sisters. Mondays, 1 to 2 p.m. Info: 541-588-2332.
Free Weekly Meal Service
Family Kitchen hosts a weekly to-go hot meal on Tuesdays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. Info: www. FamilyKitchen.org.
Free Pet Food
Need pet food for your dog or cat? Call the Furry Friends pet food bank at 541-797-4023 to schedule your pickup. Located at 412 E. Main Ave., Ste. 4, behind The Nugget.
Kiwanis Food Bank
Located at 382 W. Main Ave. Weekly distribution is Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: 541-632-3663.
Notice of Election for Sisters City Council
Notice is hereby given that a General Election will be held on November 3, 2026, for three positions on the Sisters City Council. The fi rst day to fi le for a City Council position was Wednesday, June 3, 2026. To be eligible one must be a qualified elector in Oregon, a current registered voter in the City of Sisters, and must have been a resident of the City for 12 months preceding the election. City Council positions are nonpartisan. Election materials can be found on the City website at: www.ci.sisters.or.us. The terms of Councilor Michael Preedin, Councilor Gary Ross, and Councilor Cheryl Pellerin will end on December 31, 2026. All three are eligible to apply for reelection. Candidates are encouraged to obtain election materials by August 4, 2026. All fi ling requirements for incumbents must be completed by 5 p.m. on August 18, 2026, and new candidates by 5 p.m. on August 25, 2026. For questions about the process, email Monica Burmeister at mburmeister@ ci.sisters.or.us, or stop by City Hall at 520 E. Cascade Ave.
Honey Bees & Brews
Monthly social gathering at Lazy Z Ranch every 4th Thursday at 5 p.m. All beekeepers and wanna-bees welcome. For more info: Clyde, 458-206-8470.
The Cascade Cowpokes, a new Sisters-based 4-H club, just participated in the Deschutes County Fair and the club is growing! They are excited to welcome new members. Watch for their September kickoff meeting. For info. contact Club Leader Cindy Crowder ccrowder6789@gmail.com.
The Sisters High Desert Chorale Welcomes New Singers
Come sing this fall and get ready for their holiday concerts, “Holiday Traditions,” December 11 and 13. Th is is a fun-loving community mixed chorus that meets at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Sisters every Monday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The fi rst rehearsal is September 14. No audition is required. For more information, please contact Carol Lisek at carolSHDC@gmail.com.
Camp Sherman Pancake Breakfast
Bring your family and friends to a traditional pancake breakfast at the Camp Sherman Community Hall, Sunday, September 6, 8 to 11 a.m. Enjoy all-you-can-eat sausage, eggs, pancakes, orange juice and coffee. Adults $12.00; children 5 to 10 years $8.00, under 5 free. Proceeds benefit Camp Sherman Historical Society and Friends of the Metolius. 541-595-2719.
2026 Historical Walking Tours of the Camp Polk Historical Cemetery
Guided walks start at 10:30 a.m. at 6985 Cemetery Road, Sisters. The cemetery is not handicap accessible and walks include uneven ground. The next journey through Sisters’ history starts September 19! Register at www. camppolkpioneercemetery.org.
Volunteer to Help Horses
Calling all horse lovers! Happy Trails Horse Rescue in Tumalo needs volunteers! Can you help them help horses? New Volunteer Orientation is the fi rst and third Sundays of the month at 10 a.m. or call to schedule! Learn more at www. happytrailshr.org.
GO FISH GROUP
Annual picnic for members on Saturday, August 22, at 364 East Wapato Loop at 4 p.m. For more information call Gary Kutz at 541-771-2211.
Widows’ Support Group
Widows of all ages are invited to share a potluck of salads, connect with others who truly understand, and fi nd hope together. Monthly gatherings are the fi rst Friday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Fireside Room at Sisters Community Church, 1300 McKenzie Hwy, Sisters. For questions, contact Cindy Vice (513-226-1222) or Melody Carlson (541-815-3540).
SISTERS LIBRA RY
EVENTS
Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations
Friday, August 21, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Study Room. Drop-in social services assistance that connects you with resources.
World Class Oregon Cheese
Friday, August 21, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Community Room. Guaranteed to put you in a Gouda mood!
Sunday Skate Sessions with Board House
Sunday, August 23, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bob Chandler Memorial Skate Park, 1750 McKinney Butte Rd. Scroll less. Skate more. Come learn from the Board House crew!
Seed Library
Tuesday, August 25, 1 to 2 p.m. Community Room. Share, donate, and enjoy seeds!
I’m Going to Kindergarten!
Wednesday, August 26, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Ages 5-6. Community Room. Stories, songs, and a craft for kids entering Kindergarten.
SISTERS-AR EA CHURCHES
Baha’i Faith For information, devotions, study groups, etc., contact Shauna Rocha 541-647-9826 • www.bahai.org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteachings.org
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (ELCA) 386 N. Fir St. • 541-549-5831 www.shepherdoft hehillslutheranchurch.com 10 a.m. Sunday Worship
Chapel in the Pines Camp Sherman • 541-815-9153 10 a.m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Church of the Nazarene 67130 Harrington Loop Rd. • 541-588-3065 www.sistersnaz.org • info@sistersnaz.org 10 a.m. Sunday Worship
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 452 Trinity Way • Branch President, 541-977-5559; 10 a.m. Sunday Sacrament Meeting The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration 121 N Brooks Camp Rd. • 541-549-7087 www.transfiguration-sisters.org 9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Episcopal Eucharist Worship The Resting Place meeting at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. www.restingplace.us • hello@restingplace.us 5 p.m. Sunday Worship
Sisters Community Church (nondenominational) 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy. • 541-549-1201 www.sisterschurch.com • info@sisterschurch.com 8 a.m. Daybreak Service • 10 a.m. Sunday Worship St. Edward the Martyr Roman Catholic Church 123 Trinity Way • 541-549-9391 5:30 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass • 7 and 9 a.m. Sunday Mass 5:30 p.m. Tuesday Mass • 8 a.m. Wednesday-Friday Mass Wellhouse Church 442 Trinity Way • 541-549-4184 htt ps://wellhousechurch.churchcenter.com 10 a.m. Sunday Worship
POLICY: Nonprofits, schools, churches, birth, engagement, wedding, and anniversary notices may run at no charge. Business items do not run on this page. All submissions subject to editing and run as space allows. Email nugget@nuggetnews.com or drop off at 442 E. Main Ave. Deadline is 5 p.m. on Fridays.
SISTERS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT FALL 2026 RECREATION GUIDE
Humane Society of Central Oregon
Free Saturday morning walks offered by Friends of the Metolius. Kids are welcome, but please no dogs. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water. August 22, 9 to 11 a.m. Camp Sherman Bridge to Allingham Bridge and back. Observe the unique riparian habitat of the Metolius ecosystem that includes charismatic species such as osprey, river otters, and merganser ducks. Learn about recent changes to enhance habitat for fi sh and native plants. Susan’s cabin on the river has been in her family since the 1930s. Leader: Susan Prince. For information, call 415-233-3243.
New Sisters 4-H Club
Pull out and save...
PET OF THE WEEK
Interpretive Walks: Summer 2026
Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
FALL RECREATION GUIDE September 1 – December 31, 2026
Registration opens on August 19th for all programs unless otherwise indicated.
Guide produced by The Nugget Newspaper
Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Looking to stay engaged and connected in our community? Become a district volunteer! Volunteers help keep prices down and make SPRD programs and services more accessible to everyone in our community. Your help makes Sisters Park & Recreation District an excellent place to recreate! Sign up at www.sistersrecreation.com.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
FALL 2026 RECREATION GUIDE September 1 – December 31, 2026 Registration opens on August 19th for all programs unless otherwise indicated. Contact Us Phone: 541-549-2091 Email: sprd@sistersrecreation.com Website: www.sistersrecreation.com
Business Office & Hours
Sisters Community Recreation Center 611 E. Cascade Ave. | Monday-Friday: 7:30a- 5p
Mission: To provide our community with exceptional recreation opportunities that enhance livability. Board of Directors
Bob Keefer, Board President; Heath Foott, Board Vice President; Peggy Tehan, Treasurer; Katie Bunce, Secretary; Julia Sarver, Member
Executive Director
Jennifer Holland, jennifer@sistersrecreation.com
The district offers scholars a registration fee assistance program for qualifying families that covers up to 50% of the registration fee. For more details and to apply, visit www. sistersrecreation.com.
DISTRICT CLOSURES
For up-to-date information on program and facility closures, visit the district Facebook page and website. Please note that if Sisters School District closes due to inclement weather, all SPRD programs and activities will be canceled.
OUT-OF-DISTRICT (OD) FEES
Our programs are open to everyone regardless of whether you live within our district boundaries. District users who live outside of district boundaries do not pay property taxes to help support Sisters Park & Recreation District and are subject to a 30% fee increase.
REGISTER
Go to www.sistersrecreation.com and click the “register online” button. Log in or create an account. Find the desired programs, check the box, then add to cart. Check out when finished. If you have any challenges, call 541-549-2091 for assistance.
REFUND POLICY
Please review our direct refund policy and be sure to communicate ahead of time if plans change and you cannot attend a program. ✓ 5 business days notice or more prior to the first day of the program: 100% refund or credit is given minus a $5 processing fee. ✓ 3-4 business days notice prior to the first day of the program: 50% refund or credit is given minus a $5 processing fee. ✓ 2 business days notice prior to the first day of the program or less: no refund or credit given. ✓ Program fees are not refunded or prorated for participants who miss portions of the program. ✓ Full refunds or credits will be granted for programs that are canceled by the district, without withholding a $5 processing fee. ✓ Day camp and specialty camps are subject to a $25 change/cancellation fee per camper per week. ✓ Program specific policies: For Preschool and Kids Club, please see parent handbook for program specific refund policies. ✓ For youth athletics refund policy, see page 4.
SISTERS COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
The Sisters Community Recreation Center (SCRC) is a multipurpose recreation facility that offers a variety of health & wellness, and recreational opportunities to the public. 2
www.sistersrecreation.com | 541-549-2091
Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
PASS & MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
SPRD offers a variety of daily fees and pass options to meet your unique recreation and fitness needs. The community commons are available for the public to use free of charge. PLAYLITE PASS OPTIONS PlayLite Pass allows access to the fitness studio and gym but does not include access to drop-in district fitness classes. PASS TYPE
SINGLE 10 VISIT VISIT
MONTHLY AUTO
THREE MONTH
CHILD
FREE
YOUTH
$4 ID/ $6 OD
$36 ID/ $47 OD
$32 ID/ $42 OD
$96 ID/ $126 OD
(AGES 19-79)
ADULT
$6 ID/ $8 OD
$53 ID/ $69 OD
$47 ID/ $62 OD
$141 ID/ $186 OD
HONORED CITIZEN
$4 ID/ $6 OD
$36 ID/ $47 OD
$32 ID/ $42 OD
$96 ID/ $126 OD
(AGES 0-5) (AGES 6-18)
(AGES 80+)
PLAY PASS OPTIONS: Play Pass is our all-access pass, allowing access to the fitness studio, gym, and drop-in district fitness classes. SINGLE VISIT
10 VISIT MONTHLY AUTO
THREE MONTH
CHILD
FREE
YOUTH
$7 ID/ $10 OD
$62 ID/ $81 OD
$55 ID/ $72 OD
$165 ID/ $216 OD
(AGES 19-79)
ADULT
$9 ID/ $12 OD
$80 ID/ $104 OD
$70 ID/ $91 OD
$210 ID/ $273 OD
HONORED CITIZEN
$7 ID/ $10 OD
$62 ID/ $81 OD
$55 ID/ $72 OD
$165 ID/ $216 OD
(AGES 0-5) (AGES 6-18)
(AGES 80+)
Grades K-5. The focus of our after-school program is to provide a safe, structured, and fun environment for children. Program includes structured playtime, enrichment activities, and a snack. Kids Club will follow the Sisters School District calendar. ERDC accepted. Registration opened August 1. Location: Sisters Elementary School M-F .................. After school-5:30p ..........$235/month
School Break Day Camps
Grades K-5. Looking for something fun for your student to do during extended periods of no school days? Look no further. SPRD is offering full day care that is packed with fun, games, enrichment, and more! Each camp is based off a theme with crafts and activities tailored to the theme. ERDC accepted. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center
Fall into Fun Camp
11/23-11/24 .......... M-Tu....8:30a-4p ...$100 ID/$130 OD
ID = In District / OD = Out of District
PASS TYPE
Kids Club
ID = In District / OD = Out of District ADDITIONAL PASS INFORMATION • Passes can be purchased in person at SCRC. • 10-visit passes expire one (1) year from the date of purchase. • Monthly passes are an auto-renew pass that allow the passholder unlimited monthly visits. • 3-month passes must be paid in full at time of purchase and allow the passholder unlimited monthly visits. • Passes are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
CARE PROGRAMS
SPRD offers a variety of programs that are designed to take care of your little one when you are not able to!
Winter Wonderland Camp
12/28-12/31 .......... M-Th...8:30a-4p ....$200 ID/$260 OD
YOUTH RECREATION
Camp Fire Central Oregon Non-School Day Camps Grades K-5. Join Camp Fire Central Oregon for these non-school day camps! Your child will enjoy interactive camps filled with hands-on activities.
Mad Science Lab
Dive into chemistry and physics fun with slime, bubbles, reactions, magnets, and more! Kids will explore STEAM through hands-on experiments, simple machines, and real scientific thinking. Instructor: Camp Fire Central Oregon. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/28 ............. M ..... 9a-3p ....................$80 ID/$104 OD
Welcome to Hollywood
Explore the world of movies with us! Spend the day acting like your favorite movie characters, creating new characters, and imagining plot twists, storylines, and movie sets. Instructor: Camp Fire Central Oregon. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/16 ........... F ....... 9a-3p ....................$80 ID/$104 OD
Preschool
Ages 3-5. Join our school year program and give your child a strong foundation for success! Our curriculum emphasizes social-emotional learning, early literacy, math, music and movement, and art. Our program is divided into separate classrooms for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds, allowing us to tailor learning experiences to each age group’s developmental needs. EDRC accepted. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center; Secured Early Childhood Wing For a list of enrollment options and prices, visit www. sistersrecreation.com.
Chess Wizards
Grades K-8. Chess Wizards is a premier chess education company offering fun, challenging, and skill-building lessons for students in K–8th grade. The curriculum teaches kids to think strategically, solve problems, and show good sportsmanship — all while having fun. Classes are grouped by experience level and culminate in a mini-chess tournament. Instructor: Chess Wizards Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/14-11/9* ...... M ..... 4-5p ......................$263 ID/$342 OD *No class 10/12 541-549-2091 | www.sistersrecreation.com
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Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
Child and Babysitter Safety
Ages 12+. The primary objective of this training program is to educate babysitters and caregivers on essential safety practices and guidelines when caring for children. By the end of this training, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of various safety measures and protocols, enabling them to provide a secure environment for the children under their supervision. Class includes interactive sessions, demonstrations, and Q&A. Instructor: Northwest Emergency Medical Training Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/16 ............... F ....... 10a-12p ................$100 ID/$130 OD
CPR/AED & First Aid
Ages 12+. In emergency situations, having the skills and knowledge to respond effectively can make a life-saving difference. The comprehensive CPR, First Aid, and AED Training course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills required to provide immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing medical emergencies. Whether you’re a concerned citizen, a healthcare professional, a teacher, a coach, or anyone who wants to be prepared to respond in critical situations. Instructor: Northwest Emergency Medical Training Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/16 ............... F ....... 1-5p ......................$100 ID/$130 OD
Introduction to Ceramics
Ages 7-17. This beginner clay class introduces young artists to hand building, surface design, and glazing techniques. The first class, students will form their piece with clay and tools. After their work has dried and been fired, they’ll return to decorate it with colorful underglazes before its final glaze firing. Perfect for first-time clay students — no experience needed! Instructor: Ceydi Pries, Soula Stoneware Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/2 & 10/23 ... F ....... 2-3:30p .................$60 ID/$78 OD
Kids Night In
Ages 4-Grade 5. Enjoy an evening to yourselves while the kids have a blast with us! Our trained staff will keep your child engaged with a mix of active play, creative crafts, snack time, and relaxing downtime as we wind down for the night. It’s a safe, fun, and easy way for kids to enjoy an evening in, while parents enjoy an evening out! Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/8 ................. Th..... 6-9p ......................$25 ID/$33 OD 11/12 ............... Th..... 6-9p ......................$25 ID/$33 OD 12/10 ............... Th..... 6-9p ......................$25 ID/$33 OD
Mini Outlaws Soccer*
Ages 3-5. This is a parent/child program. Introduce your little to the exciting game of soccer! Sessions will focus on developing fundamental soccer skills, teamwork, and building confidence for your little. Come join the fun as they discover a new sport. Location: Sisters Community Park 9/9-9/30 ......... W ..... 4-4:45p .................$50 ID/$65 OD 10/7-10/28 ..... W ..... 4-4:45p .................$50 ID/$65 OD *Parent/guardian must be present and actively participate during the program. 4
www.sistersrecreation.com | 541-549-2091
Mini Outlaws Basketball*
Ages 3-5. This is a parent/child program. Introduce your little ones to basketball, each session will focus on movement and fun. Players will work on dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork! Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 11/18-12/16* .. W ..... 4-4:45p .................$50 ID/ $65 OD *Parent/guardian must be present and actively participate during the program. No class 11/25.
Outlaw Sports Central*
Grades 3-8. Join us after school for an athlete-driven sports open gym experience featuring basketball, volleyball, soccer, and more! Each session will focus on creating a fun open practice opportunity with drills, games, and free play. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/11-12/18 ...... F ....... 1-4p ......................$100 ID/ $130 OD *Program runs every other Friday; fees are for all 8 sessions.
Indoor Playground
Ages 0-5. Join us to get those morning wiggles out! We offer an open playtime for all families looking for a safe space to run, play, and have fun! Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/1-12/29 ........ TuTh . 10:30a-12p ..............................FREE
Youth Tennis
Grades K-5. Learn or improve your skills in the lifelong game of tennis in a positive and encouraging environment. Players will work on skill development while running drills, playing games, and having fun! Players should bring their own tennis racket, however, loaner rackets are available. All skill levels are welcome! Instructor: Beau I. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center Grades K-2 1/12-2/11 ........ TuTh ............. 4-5p ...........$75 ID/$85 OD Grades 3-5 11/3-12/10* .... TuTh ............. 4-5p ...........$75 ID/$85 OD *No class 11/24 & 11/26
YOUTH ATHLETICS
SPRD youth athletics are a great way to introduce your child to a variety of sports. Our recreational sports programs are noncompetitive and focus on fundamental skill development, participation, sportsmanship, and HAVING FUN! No prior experience is necessary, and all skill levels are welcome.
Youth Athletic Refund Fee:
There is a $25 administrative fee for all refund requests after the listed registration period has closed.
Priority Registration Information
All youth athletic leagues have a priority registration deadline to guarantee your child’s spot in the program. Following this deadline, there is a one-week “hold period” for staff to organize participants, determine number of teams, coaches, uniform and equipment needs for the upcoming season. After the hold period, registration or a waitlist will be open depending on program space available.
Volunteer Coaches Needed!
SPRD’s youth athletic programs depend on volunteer coaches to be successful. No previous experience is necessary; all training is provided. If you are interested in coaching, please indicate this at the time of registration or visit our website to complete an SPRD Volunteer Application. For more information, please call 541-549-2091.
Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
Youth Basketball, Grades K-2
Grades K-2. Introduce your child to the sport of basketball with our youth basketball program. The program will focus on fundamental basketball skills, gameplay, sportsmanship, teamwork, and HAVING FUN! Kindergarten teams practice 1x/week, grade 1-2 teams practice 2x/week. All teams will play one game per week on Saturdays. Locations: Sisters Community Recreation Center and Sisters Elementary School Grade K, Coed 10/26-12/19* ...........................................$90 ID/$117 OD Grades 1/2, Boys & Girls 10/26-12/19* ...........................................$100 ID/$130 OD *A minimum of 4 teams is required per division; boys and girls divisions may be combined into one coed division at the district’s discretion if this minimum is not met; no practice/ games 11/22-11/28. Priority registration deadline: Sunday, October 4
Youth Basketball, Grades 3-6
Grades 3-6. Introduce your child to the sport of basketball with our youth basketball program. The program will focus on fundamental basketball skills, gameplay, sportsmanship, teamwork, and HAVING FUN! All teams practice 2x/week. Grades 5/6 play in partnership with Remond Area Parks & Recreation District. Teams will practice in Sisters and play games in Redmond on Saturday or Sunday. Locations: Sisters Community Recreation Center and Sisters Elementary School Grades 3/4, Boys & Girls 1/4-2/14* ........ $110 ID/$143 OD Grades 5/6, Boys & Girls 1/4-2/14* ........ $120 ID/$156 OD *A minimum of 4 teams is required per division to stay in Sisters. Otherwise program will transition to Redmond Area Park & Recreation District and program dates may be effected. Priority registration deadline: Sunday, November 22
Youth Volleyball
Grades 3-6. Introduce your child to volleyball! This program focuses on fundamental volleyball skills, gameplay, sportsmanship, teamwork, and HAVING FUN! Teams will practice and play on Saturdays in partnership with Bend Parks & Recreation District. We may combine 3rd/4th and 5th/6th if numbers are low for individual grade play. In that case, we will play up. Grade 3 11/7-12/19* ....................... Sa .................. $120 ID/$143 OD Location: High Desert Middle School, Bend Grade 4 11/7-12/19* ....................... Sa .................. $120 ID/$143 OD Location: High Desert Middle School, Bend Grade 5 11/7-12/19* ....................... Sa .................. $120 ID/$156 OD Location: Pilot Butte Middle School, Bend Grade 6 11/7-12/19* ....................... Sa .................. $120 ID/$156 OD Location: Pacific Crest Middle School, Bend *No games the weekend of 11/28 Registration deadline: Friday, September 25
Youth Soccer & Football
Registration for our fall youth soccer and youth football programs has closed. Mark your calendars for next year, registration starts in the spring! Early registration is encouraged for all youth athletic programs to ensure we have enough participants to run each program.
ADULT ATHLETICS & RECREATION
Expand your mind and make new friends in our adult recreation programs. Adults of all ages welcome!
Adult Pickleball
Ages 18+. Improve your skills, strategy, and confidence on the court. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your technique, our instructors focus on fundamentals, shot selection, positioning, and game play in a supportive setting. Stay active, sharpen your competitive edge, and enjoy the social energy that makes pickleball so popular. All skill levels are welcome! Instructor: Beau I. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/15-10/20 ...... Tu ..... 5-6p ......................$75 ID/$85 OD
Basics of Bike Maintenance - Part 1
Ages 12+*. Learn the basics of routine bike maintenance from the staff at Blazin Saddles. No need to bring a bike, just yourself and some curiosity! Time will be set aside for Q&A at the end of class. Instructor: Blazin Saddles Location: Blazin Saddles (413 W Hood Ave) 9/23 ................. W ..... 5:30-7:30p ............$20 ID/$26 OD *Ages 12-15 must register with an adult 18+.
Basics of Bike Maintenance - Part 2
Ages 12+*. Great for those who attend the Basics to Bike Maintenance - Part 1 or for anyone who would like to learn more about basic adjustments to brakes, shifting, or tubeless tire maintenance. This class will go more in-depth than Basics to Bike Maintenance - Part 1. Instructor: Blazin Saddles Location: Blazin Saddles (413 W Hood Ave) 10/7 ................. W ..... 5:30-7:30p ............$20 ID/$26 OD *Ages 12-15 must register with an adult 18+.
CPR/AED & First Aid
Ages 12+. In emergency situations, having the skills and knowledge to respond effectively can make a lifesaving difference. The Comprehensive CPR, First Aid, and AED Training course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills required to provide immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing medical emergencies. Whether you’re a concerned citizen, a healthcare professional, a teacher, a coach, or anyone who wants to be prepared to respond in critical situations. Instructor: Northwest Emergency Medical Training Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/16 ............... F ....... 1-5p ......................$100 ID/$130 OD
Concealed Carry (CHL) Certification
Ages 21+. Earn your Oregon and Utah Concealed Handgun License (CHL) permits with experienced and certified instructor Andrew Koehler. This educational course provides classroom instruction only, including safe firearm handling and storage, laws and legal responsibilities, and situational awareness. This is a nonshooting course; no firearms or ammunition allowed on premises. Instructor: Safe Action Training Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/17 ............... Sa ..... 10a-1p ..................$132 ID/ $172 OD 541-549-2091 | www.sistersrecreation.com
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Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
Heart Health 101
Participants will gain basic knowledge of the heart and how it works, major signs of a heart attack, tips on adding hearthealthy foods into your diet, and more! Instructor: Amy C. with St. Charles Health System Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/28 ............... W ..... 1-2:30p .................FREE
Ukulele for Beginners - Adults
Ages 18+. E Komo Mai, come join the fun and learn some fundamental skills to get you playing the ukulele quickly! The focus will be on learning to read and play chords along with different strumming techniques and even a little fingerpicking. No musical experience needed. Ukuleles are available to rent during the class at no extra cost. Instructor: Peggy T. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/15-11/12 .... Th..... 6-7:30p ..... $55 ID/$72 OD
Western Line Dancing
Ages 18+. Come have fun learning the basics of Western line dancing - no partner required. Participants will have the option to show off their new dance skills at the Harvest Faire on Saturday, October 10. Instructor: Carol A. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 9/16-10/9* ...... W ..... 6-7:30p .................$50 ID/$64 OD *Optional 5th class on 10/9 to rehearse for the Harvest Faire performance.
DISTRICT FITNESS CLASSES
SPRD offers numerous drop-in group fitness classes every week at Sisters Community Recreation Center. Classes are open to all ability levels.
Monthly Fitness Schedule
Fitness class schedules are updated monthly and available in person or online. For the most up to date information, please call 541-5492091 or scan the QR code to view our online schedule!
Admission Fees
Daily admissions fees apply for all drop-in district fitness classes and open studio use. Please see page 3 for details and more information about our pass options.
Better Bones & Balance
Ages 18+. This research-based exercise class is designed to improve bone health, muscular strength, and balance in a fun, social, and community environment. Class includes strength training, and aerobic, flexibility, and balance exercises. Beginner to intermediate levels; come dressed to move. Instructor: Randy K.
Functional Fitness
Ages 18+. This is a functional strength based class for all fitness levels focused on improving long-term health, longevity, simplifying daily tasks, and moving with ease. Instructor: Savana R.
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www.sistersrecreation.com | 541-549-2091
Zumba®
Ages 18+. This high-energy, upbeat class is a full-body workout set to a mixture of spicy Latin and International music. Routines combine fast and slow rhythms to achieve a balance of cardio and muscle-toning benefits. No dance experience needed. Instructors: Carol A. and Randy K.
Open Fitness Studio
Ages 18+. The fitness room is open and available for individual workouts and stretching. Weights, exercise balls, jump ropes, and aerobic steps are available; no instruction provided. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center
CONTRACTED FITNESS CLASSES Tai Chi
Ages 18+. Join International Grand Champion Master JianFeng Chen to learn Tai Chi, often called a moving meditation. Tai Chi has been proven to assist all ages and abilities with balance, flexibility, stress relief, and overall health. This beginning Tai Chi class starts with the foundations of Tai Chi, including walking and learning the Simple 8 and 24 Yang Style forms. Master Chen has studied martial arts since the age of 11 in China and been teaching Tai Chi for 30 years, with a proven teaching method to share this art and culture with Central Oregon for over 14 years. No prior experience necessary. Instructor: Master Chen Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 8/28-9/25 ........ F ....... 11:30a-12:15p ...... $70 ID/$91 OD
SELF-DIRECTED & DROP-IN ACTIVITIES Community Commons
All Ages. Looking for a place to make new friends? Come and hang out in our community room. Enjoy a good book, work on a puzzle, or just enjoy a cup of joe with a friend. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center Ongoing ........... M-F .. 7:30a-5p ...............FREE
Open Fitness Studio
Ages 18+. The fitness room is open and available for individual workouts and stretching. Weights, exercise balls, music, and a variety of workouts are available. No instruction provided. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center Ongoing ...... M-F ..... 12-5p .................... Drop-in fees apply *See page 3 for drop-in fee information
Open Gym
All Ages. The gym is open and available for drop-in play (basketball, pickleball, etc.) when not in use for district programs. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center Ongoing ...... M-F ..... 7:30a-5p ............. Drop-in fees apply *See page 3 for drop-in fee information
Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
Table Tennis
All Ages. This fun game works the body and mind! Play solo or with friends. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center Ongoing ........... M-F .................................7:30a-5p ....FREE
Ukulele Jam Session
Ages 18+. Bring your Ukulele and jam out at SPRD. Great way to make friends and rock out. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 4th Sunday................. 6-7:30p ....................................FREE
SPECIALIZED RECREATION Game Night by SOUL
Ages 18+. Under 18 welcome with a responsible adult. Join Sisters Opportunities for Unified Living (SOUL) for their once-amonth game nights. All persons, experiencing a disability or not, are welcome for an evening of fun! Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 1st Thursday .............. 6-8p .........................................FREE
OLDER ADULT/SENIOR RECREATION (55+)
While older adults and seniors are welcome in ALL adult programs, these programs are designed specifically with our 55+ population in mind!
Community Dining Program
Join the Council on Aging for their Community Dining program. Older adults, ages 60+, are eligible for in-person community lunch or Grab-N-Go meals at no cost. Meals are $5 for those under 60. Location: Sisters Community Church In-Person Lunch Weekly ............. Tu ..... 11a-1p Grab-N-Go Meals Weekly ............. W-Th ..12:30-1p
Meals on Wheels
The Council on Aging prepares, packages, and delivers Meals on Wheels across Deschutes County to enhance the quality of life of home-bound individuals by providing home-delivered nutritious meals, personal contact, and related services. Call 541-678-5483 to learn more.
SPECIAL EVENTS
SPRD provides a variety of special events throughout the year. Be sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss out on the fun!
Better Bones & Balance*
Ages 18+. This research-based exercise class is designed to improve bone health, muscular strength, and balance in a fun, social, and community environment. Class includes strength training, and aerobic, flexibility, and balance exercises. Beginner to intermediate levels; come dressed to move. Instructor: Randy K. Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center *See district fitness classes on page 6 for more details
Heart Health 101
Participants will gain basic knowledge of the heart and how it works, major signs of a heart attack, tips on adding hearthealthy foods into your diet, and more! Instructor: Amy C. with St. Charles Health System Location: Sisters Community Recreation Center 10/28 ............... W ..... 1-2:30p ....................................FREE
COMMUNITY RESOURCES FOR OLDER ADULTS/SENIORS
The following programs and resources are available to older adults and seniors in the Sisters community from a variety of local and regional partners. Please contact the individual organization associated with each program for more details and information.
Glory Daze Car Show
All ages. Set on East Main Avenue in Sisters, this car show is the perfect way to spend a sunny fall day. Eventgoers will see a variety of cars that will dazzle the eyes and get their heart pumping when they all start their engines after the award ceremony. Preregistration for cars is required as space is limited. Registration fee is $40 per vehicle and includes an event T-shirt. Registration closes on August 28 or when maximum registration is met. Visit district website for details. Location: East Main Avenue, Sisters 9/12 ................. Sa ..... 10a-2p ..................FREE Sponsored by:
Club of Sisters
Council on Aging of Central Oregon
For more information on all Council on Aging of Central Oregon programs, please visit www.councilonaging.org or call 541-678-5483. 541-549-2091 | www.sistersrecreation.com
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Sisters Park & Recreation District • Fall 2026 Recreation Guide
Holiday Palooza Stars Over Sisters
All ages. Join the SPRD Astronomy Club for an evening of learning and stargazing. The evening will start off with a presentation from a local high school science club student and conclude with spectacular views of stars and more. Telescopes provided. Location: Sisters High School 9/4 ................... Fr ..... 7p .........................FREE 10/2 ................. Fr ..... 6:30p ....................FREE
All ages. Join us the Saturday after Thanksgiving for the annual holiday celebration. This event will kick off with a holiday parade down East Main Avenue and will culminate with holiday activities, including the tree-lighting ceremony, at Fir Street Park! Be sure to bundle up and bring your holiday spirit for this family-friendly event. Parade sign-ups are available now on district website. 11/28 ............... Sa ..... 3:30-5:30p ............FREE Sponsored by:
Downtown Trunk-or-Treat
All ages. Join us for the second annual Trunk-or-Treat as we take over Village Green with fun Halloween-themed activities, music, with trunk-or-treating stations around the perimeter of the park. Costumes are encouraged by all! Businesses and individuals who want to provide a trunk-ortreat station can sign up now! Visit our website for more details. 10/31 ............... Sa ..... 2-4p ......................FREE* *Canned food donation encouraged. Sponsored by:
Club of Sisters
Winter Solstice Labyrinth Walk
All ages. Enjoy a silent meditation walk with others in your community, celebrating the longest night of the year. We begin with a brief gathering, then proceed through the labyrinth in silence (different from our exuberant summer gatherings). Please dress warmly and bring a flashlight and/ or electric candle. Sisters Community Labyrinth is located in the East Portal wooded area at the corner of Highway 242 and West Hood Ave (roughly between Bi-Mart and Les Schwab). 12/21 ............... M ..... 6:30-7:30p ............FREE
LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR REGISTRATION FEES?
Happy Girls Run
Challenge yourself to the half marathon and enjoy beautiful singletrack, fast, flowy descents and amazing views of the Cascades on the Peterson Ridge trail system just outside Sisters or have fun with the 5K which tours the scenic western-themed town. Both races start and finish at the beautiful FivePine Resort, where you’ll be welcomed by crisp mountain air and majestic Ponderosa pines. Register now at https://happygirlsrun.com/sisters/. 10/24 ............... Sa ..... 9a 8
www.sistersrecreation.com | 541-549-2091
SPRD offers a scholarship that covers up to 50% fees For more details and to apply scan the QR code
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
UGB: City is filling in some missing information Continued from page 1
of missing ecological protections in the Deschutes County development code and Comprehensive Plan. Sisters’ Community Planning Director Scott Woodford provided details and status on the added steps August 12 during the Sisters City Council workshop. Woodford shared that under the 1998 Intergovernmental Agreement between the City and the County, City staff will submit, free of charge, amendment applications to address any county code or plan issues regarding land considered as an Unincorporated UGB Area (UUGA). The City UGB expansion application hearing came before the CPC May 28, the CPC extended the hearing to June 26 for deliberations, and comments from State of Oregon entities were received just before the June hearing thus the CPC moved the hearing deliberations to July 9. At the July hearing, the City requested that the CPC hearing be continued to Thursday, August 27, allowing the City time to address the missing County document amendments and time for a review by the City Planning Commission and a hearing by City Council. Last July the three State entities found district descriptions were missing in code protect/limitation lists related to the City’s UUGA — district descriptions like flood plains.
Although the State communications indicated that the omissions could be addressed after the UGB expansion application was approved, the City is taking steps to assuage CPC concerns. The City DCC and plan amendments application very generally includes amendments assuring code protections of wetlands, flood plains, and wildlife areas in the UUGA. The amendments impact the County Comprehensive Plan Chapters 1 and 4 and the DCC under Title 18 - Section 12, Title 21 - Section 12, and Title 17. Woodford stated that City staff identified and drafted the required DCC and plan amendments which the City Planning Commission subsequently recommended to City Council. The next step is for the finalized County amendments application to return to the City Council for a hearing August 26. The Wednesday hearing seeks City Council review and recommendation to the CPC to review and approve the application during the county planning commission’s August 27 meeting. The Thursday meeting will also include the City UGB expansion application hearing. Should that hearing end with the planning commission’s recommendation for approval to its governing body, the next step is for both the City Council and the Board of County Commissioners to review and approve in a September hearing. The final step for the City UGB application is for the State of Oregon to review and acknowledge the amendments.
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VOLUNTEERS: Program benefits aspiring firefighters, district Continued from page 5
fire station in Sisters. RVs are put through a firefighter academy, training alongside students from Cloverdale and Black Butte Ranch. The students are taught fire suppression and rescue practices, including structure and wildland fire suppression, and vehicle extrication training. Additionally, RVs are put through an EMT course, training for the emergency medicine side of their firefighter duties. Upon completion of this academy, RVs work a fulltime firefighter schedule, working alongside the career firefighter/paramedics. Their schedule is two days on duty and four days off duty. Each shift staffs three firefighter/ paramedics (soon to be four due to the recent passage of a funding levy passing) and two resident volunteers. But the duties of an RV don’t stop here. RVs also attend courses at COCC, studying fire science or pursuing paramedic licenses. There are also additional schooling opportunities offered to third and fourth year students, such as a four-year fire administration degree. Cody Meredith, the deputy chief overseeing the student program, explains that SCSFD is always looking to grow the opportunities offered to RVs. “Our goal is to be intentional about it being an immersive educational opportunity,” Meredith said,
PHOTO BY MICHAEL ZOORMAJIAN
Student firefighters known as Resident Volunteers are part of a program that educates the next generation of firefighter/paramedics, while adding resources to local fire districts. describing the RV program’s evolution over the years. As the number one advocate for the RVs, he is consistently pushing for additional training and educational opportunities. While these responsibilities may seem overwhelming, the RVs keep can-do attitudes, and even volunteer to pick up additional duties on a regular basis. The goal of an RV being to become a career firefighter upon completion of the program, many end up working in the Willamette Valley. But some stay local, becoming the next firefighter/paramedics in Sisters. One firefighter paramedic,
Rachelle Otasu, completed four years as an RV, working briefly in California upon finishing the program. She then returned to SCSFD as career staff. “You get really good at teaching” Otasu said. “Our role as career firefighters allows us to mentor them (RVs) both on and off duty.” The RV program offered through SCSFD is not only a foot in the door for driven students entering the fire service, but also acts as an important backbone for a rural fire department. With a growing community to serve, these students have their work cut out for them. And they’re up for the challenge.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
COMMENTARY...
Owls find a home in Tollgate By Sevilla Rhoads Correspondent
From their Aspendappled porch, a couple watched young Western Screech Owls learning to fly. I also delighted in the owlets, with their big eyes and determined efforts to look more like silent swooping predators, than leaping Ewoks. However, my smile was more for the couple than the owls. As they watched the owl family, their spontaneous excited gestures and awe-utterings spoke of a sweet present-moment joy for these spouses of over 40 years. You might have thought the humans were the proud parents of the fledglings, rather than the older owl pair silently watching from shadowy pines. Something I love about birds is how they so often bring us together. A Western Screech Owl pair moved into the couple’s yard about 15 years ago. I am not surprised the owls chose the place. Despite being in a fairly busy Sisters neighborhood, the property is a wooded refugia. Arriving down their driveway is entering a forest retreat. As I pulled up, I immediately noticed many other birds, including all three nuthatch species, flitting and foraging. House Sparrows were conspicuously absent; then I recalled reading how screech owls enjoy snacking on this nonnative species. As I got out of my car, I noted the air was moist and cool. The trees gave off a drought-denying vibrancy. I soon learned that one of the residents grew up under the mentorship of a forester father, so he has skillfully nurtured this magical copse. The tended green foliage buffered the street’s dust-whirling wind into a gentle pine-scented breeze that only slightly ruffled my notepad, as I asked about living with generations of owls. How many generations is unclear. According See OWLS on page 20
DROUGHT: Water prospects are not good in much of region Continued from page 1
benchmarks that show it to be the worst drought in Central Oregon since the dustbowl. One is how early some snotel sites melted out and ... how far down the priority list we have regulated off water uses this year including some users who were shut off and have never been shut off since their water use started in 1904.” William D. Nashem, District 24 watermaster, described the situation on the ground: “We are in the thick of a very poor precipitation year with a record low runoff in the Crooked River Basin. Similar conditions also exist in the Deschutes Basin with other distinct effects due to different geology and groundwater hydrology. Water use is curtailed throughout Central Oregon because of the drought.” T h e O r e g o n Wa t e r Resources Department (OWRD) has drawn a direct comparison to 2015, the last time a warm, low-snow winter triggered widespread state drought declarations — that year, 25 of Oregon’s 36 counties were declared. State officials say 2026 could match or exceed that mark before the year is out. More broadly, OWRD notes the period since 2000 has been the driest stretch in Oregon in the past 1,200 years. Reservoirs draining fast The consequences are visible on the ground. Wickiup Reservoir, the largest of the Cascade Lakes and a key
source for irrigation from Bend to Madras, was 88 percent full in early March thanks to strong carryover from the prior year. By late July it had fallen to just 33 percent full and was “draining quickly,” according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s fishing report — low enough that the boat dock at North Wickiup sits out of the water. Downstream, the effects hit irrigators directly. Arnold Irrigation District, which serves more than 600 farms, ranches, and other properties in southwest and southeast Bend, shut off water deliveries entirely on July 2 — what District Manager Chris Webb called the earliest shutoff in the district’s history. The district had already cut deliveries 20% in mid-May as natural flows on the Little Deschutes River fell well below normal. By July 7, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed 61 percent of Deschutes County and roughly two-thirds of Crook County in extreme drought, with Jefferson County’s extreme-drought footprint jumping from under six percent to more than 43 percent in a single week. Three Sisters Irrigation District reports that effective July 30, 2026, water is at 20% for all 1895 water rights holders. What it means for the City of Sisters Inside the city of Sisters the picture is somewhat more reassuring — at least for now. Sisters draws its municipal water entirely from groundwater, pumped from four city wells that tap into the same volcanic aquifer system that feeds the Deschutes River
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concern for rural residents on shallow wells, especially around La Pine, where some wells draw from a thinner, more vulnerable layer of the aquifer. The state is now asking any Oregonian whose well runs dry or underproduces to report it at owrd.info/drywell, both to track emerging problems and to connect affected households with assistance, including the Well Abandonment, Repair and Replacement Fund for low- and moderate-income homeowners. Whatʼs next State officials expect drought conditions to persist through the rest of the summer and are urging conservation statewide. For Sisters Country, the immediate risk looks more acute for surface water users — irrigators, anglers, and downstream farms — than for the city’s own tap water. But with reservoirs at historic lows and groundwater in a decadeslong decline, local officials and hydrologists say the margin for another dry winter is thin.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
ADAMS AVE.: Project has been tough on businesses Continued from page 3
make the street more accessible for those with mobility challenges,” Letz told The Nugget. “There will be more parking, and dozens of new trees and plants will provide shade and gussy up the street.” One choice has drawn some chatter around town: instead of standard bike lanes, the city widened the sidewalks so pedestrians and cyclists share the same path. Officials say it shortens the distance people have to cross the road by close to a third and slows traffic down in the process. Not everyone’s sold. At least one letter to The Nugget wondered whether mixing bikes and foot traffic on the same path might create its own headaches, especially for kids, older residents, and anyone using a wheelchair or walker. And the work itself has had some negative impacts. Ruth Raizin of Three Sisters Floral told The Nugget that the construction has had “severe negative impact” on her business — and she has heard similar concerns from others. “I don’t think it’s an overstatement to say that the summer-long project has been devastating to some local businesses — businesses that have been so supportive of this community for years.” Raizin said that access problems and the general disruption of the construction work “destroyed my nursery business for 2026.” She said that had she known the full scope of the impact, she would not have opened a nursery at all this summer. She does not see a positive outcome after the difficulties of the summer. “I see no light at the end of the tunnel,” she said. “This isn’t going to do anything good for us.” Carys Wilkins and Benji Nagel operate a seasonal farm stand — called simply The Stand — that operates on a temporary-use permit on Adams Avenue. Wilkins reports that business has been down this summer since the project started. “It’s just hard to get here,” she said. “You have to drive around a few laps to figure out how to get in.” Customers have been making the effort though. “We’re so appreciative of our customers,” she said. “We’re not mad about it at all,” Wilkins said. “Everybody has been so kind.” She said that the construction crew has made real efforts to maintain access.
“They’ve been trying really hard to make space in front of The Stand,” she said. “But, yeah, it’s taken a bit of a toll on our day-to-day. It’ll be good at some point. It’s just hard timing for a big project.” The project has a long backstory. It started as a streetscape planning exercise in 2018, funded through a state transportation grant. When residents and business owners were shown two design concepts at an open house that year, the vote wasn’t close. Twenty of 21 people picked the same one. The city council signed off on that design in 2019, and engineers spent the next few years turning it into full construction plans. “Since Adams has lacked sidewalks and parking, this has stymied any building or development,” Letz explained. “Urban Renewal Agency tax dollars were invested along this corridor to spur construction of businesses and homes in this prime location.” Then came the wait. Between the pandemic, other city priorities, and the simple matter of finding the money, Adams Avenue sat on the shelf for the better part of five years. That changed in July 2025, when the Urban Renewal Agency voted to move forward. The City put the job out to bid in January 2026, and in March the council awarded the construction contract to Deschutes Construction Corp. for just under $3.55 million, a bit more than the original estimate. Money for the project comes mostly through Sisters Urban Renewal Agency, which is funded by the extra property tax revenue generated as the downtown area’s assessed values climb. It’s the same funding source that’s
paid for improvements on Cascade and Hood avenues, Fir Street Park, and other downtown projects over the years. City officials frame Adams Avenue as more than a paving job. The pitch is that better sidewalks, more parking, and a tidier streetscape will make the corridor, which mixes businesses on the west end with homes to the east, a more attractive place to invest, live, and shop. There’s also a practical side that predates any talk of economic development. Adams was always meant to give drivers another way across town without funneling everyone onto Cascade Avenue, otherwise known as Highway 20. City planners flagged that east-west connection as a priority in the original 2018 grant application, so the current construction is really just catching up with an old to-do list. “The benefit to taxpayers is when new structures are built, it increases property values and generates tax revenues that support vital services like fire and education and can be applied to future city projects,” Letz concluded. Whether the promised benefits play out remains to be seen. The street is still rattling with work crews and heavy machinery, the payoff is still mostly projection, and the real test won’t come until after the dust settles and Adams Avenue reopens for business — on foot, on bike and behind the wheel — alike. The City’s Capital Project Manager Paul Bertagna gave this update: “Asphalt paving from Fir to Pine finished last week as did street trees going in from Pine to Fir. Sidewalks on the side streets from Oak to Fir is happening this week. Intersection curbing from Fir
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Folks in Sisters have seen — and sometimes felt — significant road construction activity on Adams Avenue in recent weeks. to Cedar is set for the first week of September. Paving from Fir to Cedar is on tap for mid-September. Lighting will be the last to go in as we aim for our September
completion date.” City Manager Jordan Wheeler says there will be a dedication and ribbon cutting in the fall when the work is fully completed.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
STA: Organization is collaborating with others in Sisters Continued from page 3
PHOTO BY SEVILLA RHOADS
A sleeping Western Screech Owl that lives in a yard near Sisters.
OWLS: Screech owls are great at rodent control operations Continued from page 18
to Cornell’s “All About Birds,” the longest-lived wild Western Screech Owl was 14, but in captivity they can live as long as 19 years. T h e f o r e s t e r ’s s o n explained how he created the owl’s home by mounting a section of a felled tree that contained an old woodpecker cavity. Western Screech Owls are small enough to snug into Northern Flicker holes. Nonmigratory, the owls live here year-round. Often, on colder days when daylight hits the cavity opening, the couple looks up to find an owl asleep with its head turned toward the warm sunshine. During my visit, one of the adult owls rested on a weathered animal skull hanging from the back of the house. The late afternoon sun’s rays moving across the owl’s soft gray plumage reminded me of creek water washing over gray stones. The blurred plumage pattern is an incredibly effective camouflage. Western Screech Owls are not rare, but we rarely ever see these masters of invisible. In addition to bringing the residents a daily dose of joy and wonder, “their” owls provide superb pest control. The “owners” marveled at how these deceptively cute hunters patrol the outbuildings and plant beds, consuming all the rodents and large insects. While they are relatively small predators, this species is strong enough to kill prey larger than the bird itself and fast enough to take down bats on the wing. Screech owls have an astonishingly varied diet from worms and grasshoppers to rats and rabbits. Some Western Screech Owls have adapted to live alongside humans. There are many records of this species living in residential areas and using nest boxes. Back in
2015, Jim Anderson wrote an article for The Nugget about another Screech Owl family living in a Sisters backyard. Despite some adaptation to us, studies indicate Western Screech Owl populations are slowly declining. It is hard to know exactly what causes changes in bird populations, but researchers point to the loss of habitat, including snags with woodpecker holes, and rodenticides. The screech owls at the Sisters home I visited not only provide poison-free rodent control, but have brought years of delight and beauty. Their owlets will soon disperse to find their own homes, so if you put up a screech owl box (and put away any rodenticides) perhaps you will be lucky enough to be watching fledglings in your yard next summer!
outside of this project, now more than ever. This project and the work of our partners will have lasting benefits for our local communities and visitors alike.” STAR is a collaborative effort, planned and built by a coalition of volunteer-powered nonprofit trail organizations working alongside the U.S. Forest Service. Sisters Trails Alliance (STA) will oversee the RTP grant management and lead five trail actions across the district. The Sisters Tie, SistersCrossroads, and Elk Ranch Trail reroutes will move users off forest roads and onto new singletrack, improving user safety and experience, and connecting neighborhoods to downtown Sisters. The Whychus-MetWin reroute will separate motorized and nonmotorized users and remove user created trails to protect natural resources. STA will also lead the construction of a connector trail between the Brush Creek and Cabot Lake trailheads that will complete a highly desirable 13-mile scenic loop for hikers and backpackers. “Planning for these projects has been an exciting, collaborative process with trail users, our partner groups, and the Forest Service,” said Executive Director of Sisters Trails Alliance Stephanie Presley. “This grant helps us keep that momentum going. We’re so grateful to OPRD for investing in the STAR
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project, and to the Forest Service for making this kind of coordinated, multi-organization effort possible.” Two of the trail projects will expand hiking opportunities in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness. Save Our East Cascade Trails will resurrect the Brush Creek Trail, closed since the B&B Complex fires, to help meet the demand from the ever-increasing population of outdoor enthusiasts who live in and visit Central Oregon. Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness (FCCW) will move the Glacier View Trail away from fragile alpine meadows and riparian zones along Canyon Creek, protecting habitat while retaining the trail’s impressive views of Three Fingered Jack and its glacial topography. “FCCW is thrilled to partner on the STAR project to expand access to these incredible wilderness areas,” said Jenn Masse, board vice president. “Working alongside the Forest Service and fellow volunteer organizations gives us the chance to build a truly cohesive vision for how we care for this land together. We’re deeply grateful to STA for spearheading this effort and for the opportunity to be part of it.” New mountain biking trails will offer rider experiences not currently available in Sisters Country. Central Oregon Trail Alliance is leading the design and construction of three trail builds, including a technical, terrain-driven route linking the Three Creek Lake area to the Peterson Ridge Trails and easing pressure
on the increasingly crowded Metolius-Windigo Trail. A rebuild of the Cache Mountain Trail will offer a technical downhill run in the recreation corridor around Suttle Lake, and a new flowstyle trail within the Peterson Ridge Trail System will provide bikers with a fun roller coaster ride over enhanced rock features. Oregon Equestrian Trails (OET) will lead improvements and construction on eight trails radiating out from Sisters Cow Camp and Whispering Pine Horse Camp. By linking existing forest roads with less than five miles of new singletrack, OET will create nearly 30 miles of new loop riding opportunities, enough to fill a long weekend of camping or give day riders multiple trails to choose from. “Oregon Equestrian Trails is happy to have the opportunity to collaborate with other trail groups on this exciting project to enhance the Sisters-area trail network,” said Pat Marquis, Central Oregon Chapter project lead. “There’s something for every type of trail user in this project, benefiting both locals and visitors to Sisters.” The Recreational Trails Program is funded by the Federal Highway Administration and administered in Oregon by OPRD. More information on the program is available at www. oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/ Pages/GRA-rtp.aspx. For more information about the STAR project, visit sisterstrails.org/news. To volunteer for the trail system expansion efforts, contact manager@sisterstrails.org.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
The Nugget Newspaper Crossword
PHOTO COURTESY ODF
Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) is usually the first flower to return to a burned forest. Entire meadows of the rose-purple plant, rich in nectar and occasionally used to make tea, can reach nine feet in height.
FIRE RECOVERY: Process takes generations to complete Continued from page 3
and some scorched-looking trees pull through just fine. Others die slowly over the following months or years from hidden damage. Where fire burns hottest, most trees don’t make it. Those standing dead trees, known as snags, aren’t wasted space. Woodpeckers and other wildlife move in almost immediately, and the snags eventually fall and enrich the forest floor. Green returns fast Within weeks, the blackened ground starts to show life. Grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs such as fireweed, lupine, and bitterbrush spring up quickly, since many regrow from roots and seeds that survived underground. Oregon State University researchers consider this early stage, often called early seral habitat, valuable in its own right. It draws insects, birds, and mammals that don’t do well in a dense, shaded forest, so the burned landscape isn’t a wasteland. It’s a different kind of habitat, at least for a while. The slow return of trees Whether the pines come back depends heavily on distance. Most conifer seed falls within a tree length or two of its source, according to OSU Extension, so regeneration tends to cluster near surviving trees and stay sparse in the middle of large burned patches. Moisture matters just as much. A seedling can sprout in spring and still die in its first dry summer. That vulnerability showed up clearly after the Eyerly Fire near the Metolius area, where researchers found ponderosa regeneration 10 years later was weakest at low, dry elevations and strongest around 4,590 feet, where moisture was more reliable. Regeneration doesn’t happen all at once, either. Some studies have tracked new seedlings appearing as late as 19 years after a fire, meaning a burn scar that looks empty five years out isn’t necessarily a lost cause.
Building a new forest Over the next few decades, successful seedlings grow into saplings and start competing with each other for light, water, and space. The result is often a dense, even-aged stand quite different from the widely spaced old-growth pines that existed before the fire. Given 50 to a 100 years or more, natural thinning through drought, insects, and competition begins to open things back up. Multiple layers and age classes develop. Some of Central Oregon’s old ponderosa stands, including trees over 600 years old at the Metolius Research Natural Area, show just how long that process can take. Not always a straight line Recovery isn‘t guaranteed to look the same everywhere. The B&B Complex fires, which burned across the boundary between the dry eastern Cascades and the wetter western side, show dramatically different recovery patterns within the same fire footprint. And thinning and prescribed burns done before the 2017 Milli Fire appear to have softened its behavior in treated areas, according to Forest Service evaluations. Climate adds another wrinkle. Researchers studying the Metolius River area warn that hotter, drier conditions could make it harder for pines to reestablish on the driest sites, potentially pushing some areas toward shrubland instead of forest. Ponderosa pine evolved alongside frequent, low-intensity fire, and foresters increasingly argue that rebuilding the exact forest that burned isn’t necessarily the goal. A more open, uneven forest with big fire-resistant pines, scattered young trees, and natural openings may be better equipped to survive the next fire, rather than being reset by it all over again. Full recovery, researchers agree, isn’t measured in years; it’s measured in generations. Sisters folk will have an armchair view of how this all plays out following the Flat and Akawa Butte fires of 2025 and 2026. With thanks to Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service and the U.S. Forest Service for help with this story.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
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600 Tree Service & Forestry
• 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
4 Brothers Tree Service Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! – TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP – Native / Non-Native Tree Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk 601 Construction Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency 401 Horses Storm Damage Cleanup, Orchard Grass Hay For Sale Craning & Stump Grinding, $250/ton, 541-408-6258 Debris Removal. ALFALFA – FOREST MANAGEMENT – TRITICALE Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush ORCHARD GRASS HAY Mowing, Mastication, Tree Construction & Renovation New 2026 crop. Barn stored. Thinning, Large & Small Scale Custom Residential Projects 3-tie bales. $250-$350/ton. Hwy. Projects! All Phases • CCB #148365 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895 Serving Black Butte Ranch, 541-420-8448 Camp Sherman & Sisters Area 403 Pets since 2003 SISTERS WHISKERS ** Free Estimates ** Your purr-fect friend is waiting Owner James Hatley & Sons for you at our local nonprofit cat 541-815-2342 • Commercial & Light rescue! Apply to adopt at: 4brostrees.com Industrial sisterswhiskers.org Licensed, Bonded and Insured • Custom homes I’ve got your cats covered! CCB-215057 • Residential Remodels Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com LOLO TREE WORKS • Tenant Improvements Julie 541-306-7551 Tree Services: Tree Removal, WHY CHOOSE US? Caring, loving pet care in my Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, • No job too big or small home. Daily rates and in town. Emergency Tree Services. • Driven by quality, skill & Cheryl 541-420-7875 ISA Certified Arborist craftsmanship Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter • Friendly, neighborly 500 Services lolotreeworks.com professionalism • DERI’s HAIR SALON • Call / Text: 503-367-5638 • Reliable, dedicated & trustful Call 541-419-1279 Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com • Licensed, Bonded, Insured CCB #240912 Contact us today! CUSTOM WINDOW Curt: 541-480-7494 COVERINGS Brandon: 541-647-0586 Bend Window Works, LLC kallbergconstruction.com 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 Tree Removal • Tree Pruning rentals look better! Contact us at Good for Trees. • Foundations: All sizes & types 541-383-2455 or Good to People. • Slabs & Flatwork: SOG's, andy@bendblinds.com. SparTreeArborist.com Driveways, patios & walkways (916) 619-6317 • Custom Finishes: Tailored to Your style and vision. TimberStandImprovement.net Contact us today! Tree Removal & Pruning Brandon: 541-647-0586 TRAQ Arborist/ CCB#190496 Jeff: 541-419-7199 541-771-4825 kallbergconstruction.com Junk Removal, Dumpster Rentals & Demolition Services – Done Right. Remove-Junk.com 541-719-8475
SUDOKU Level: Easy
Answer: Page 23
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
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down, and each small nine-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
C L A S S I F I E D S 603 Excavation & Trucking Landscape & Construction LLC LCB#8874 CCB#224224 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
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
Full Service Excavation
Home Hardening Services / Assessments / Ember Defense Retrofits / Vulcan Vent Certified Free On-site Visit & Estimate / Gain Defensible Space Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail CCB# 218954 www.cascadiadesignbuildllc.com .com 541-549-1472 • CCB #76888 Call Adam 541-974-2282 Drainfield Earthwood Timber • Minor & Major Septic Repair • Recycled fir and pine beams • All Septic Needs/Design • Mantels and accent timbers & Install • Sawmill/woodshop services General Excavation EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com • Site Preparation • Rock & Stump Removal 602 Plumbing & Electric • Pond & Driveway Construction Preparation • Building Demolition Trucking • Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, Top Shelf Service. Boulders, Water Straightforward Pricing. • Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, • Lighting Design • EV Chargers Belly • Expert Troubleshooting • The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Serving Central OR since 2008 Whatever You Want! Travis Wirth 541-647-9246
— GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE 541-419-3148
A 63-year tradition for Sisters www.georges-septic-service.com
604 Heating & Cooling
Electrical Service & Repair Est. 1947, CCB#54572 Local in Sisters 503-357-2146 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
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 CASCADE GARAGE DOORS Factory Trained Technicians Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553
Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls Residential & Commercial CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977 www.BANR.net
SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC. “Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling • New Construction • Water Heaters 541-549-4349 Residential and Commercial Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587
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
SUDOKU SOLUTION for puzzle on page 22
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
605 Painting
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
23
– 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
BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897
STEVE'S HAULING Yard and other debris, landscaping services, chain saw work, etc. 707-328-8370
802 Help Wanted
All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740
Alpine Landscape Maintenance An All-Electric Landscape Company. Text/Call Paul 541.485.2837 alpine.landscapes@icloud.com
Keeping Sisters Country Beautiful Since 2006 candcnursery@gmail.com 541-549-2345
J&E Landscaping Maintenance LLC Clean-ups, irrigation, aerating, raking, mowing, thatching, hauling debris. Edgar Cortez 541-610-8982 jandelspcing15@gmail.com
701 Domestic Services
I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051
NOW HIRING Housekeeping Team Members and Front of House: Barista, Concierge Join the crew at our cozy campstyle retreat nestled in the forest! We're looking for friendly, dependable individuals to join our team at Lake Creek Lodge. PT/FT. We offer flexible schedules & excellent compensation. k.stoffer@lakecreeklodge.com www.lakecreeklodge.com 13375 SW FS Rd. 1419, Camp Sherman
THE GARDEN ANGEL LANDSCAPING is filling crew lead and crew member positions. We want YOU to join us for an awesome season this year! thegardenangel@gmail.com 541 549 2882
Complete landscape construction, fencing, irrigation installation & design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, 803 Work Wanted debris cleanups, fertility & water Companion Caregiver conservation management, available for Sisters area. Light excavation. housekeeping, errands, appts, and CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 meal prep. 20 years exp. Great www.vohslandscaping.com references. Registered with 541-515-8462 DHS. Jodi: 707-357-5047
ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS: TARGETING MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER...
Partners in Health & Well-being 9-2 (DEADLINE 8-21) Student of the Month 10-7 (DEADLINE 9-25) At Your Service 10-14 & 10-21 (DEADLINE 9-25) Spirit of Central Oregon – Fall 10-28 (DEADLINE 9-4) Partners in Giving 11-4 (DEADLINE 10-9) CUSTOM PACKAGES MADE JUST FOR YOU...
Sisters Folk Festival Packages
CUSTOM DIGITAL & PRINT OPPORTUNITIES
4th 4 th Q Quarter uarter M Marketing arketing P Packages ackages Pat Burke LOCALLY OWNED CRAFTSMAN BUILT CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 www.sistersfencecompany.com
Eastern Cascade Solutions Landscaping & Construction www.easterncascadesolutions. com • 541-233-7195 LCB #9958 • CCB #222039
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Wednesday, August 19, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
SISTERS-AREA WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 19
Events & Entertainment WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 2
The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Eric Leadbetter 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages. Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Joe Wilkins presents “Every Sky at Home: Essays on Landscape and Family" at 6:30 p.m. 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).
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 • AUGUST 20
Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture Lecture: "Adaptation: Wildfires and Agricultural Systems" Presenters Rika Ayotte and John Selker will share insights from their work with Deschutes Land Trust and OPEnS Lab. Together they will explore the impacts of wildfires and innovative approaches to understanding agricultural systems through environmental sensing and community-based research. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Free to attend. Registration is required at https:// roundhousefoundation.org/events/. For more info call 541-9040700 or email inquiries@roundhousefoundation.org. 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. Paulina Springs Books Author Event: Yossi Feintuch presents “Taming the Beast: Human-Animal Encounters in the Bible," 6:30 p.m. Feintuch is a rabbi, and has a Ph.D. in U.S. History. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com. The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Use'ta Do 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages. 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 • AUGUST 21
Aspen Lakes Golf Course "Let's Watch: Happy Gilmore" Free outdoor movie screening, presented by Citizens4Community. Doors at 7 p.m., movie at 8. BYO chair or blanket; concessions for sale. Info: www.citizens4community. com/events. The Barn Live Music: Old Growth 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www.thebarninsisters.com. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tony Lompa 6 to 8 p.m. No cover! Courtyard at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20. paulinaspringsbooks.com. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Evan Mullins 6 to 8 p.m. Bend-based keyboardist and vocalist. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Haystack Jack 5 to 7 p.m. Free. Family- and dog-friendly. Info: 541-549-2471.
SATURDAY • AUGUST 22
Village Green Park Luau Hawaiian dinner with island music. Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Sisters, benefiting Sisters School District elementary swing sets. 5 to 7:30 p.m. $25/adult, $10/kid 6–12. Tickets: www.sisterskiwanis.org/luau. FivePine Destination Dinner Series: Mediterranean Benefiting Seed To Table, this community event features ingredients and provisions sourced locally from Seed to Table, Mahonia Gardens, and Cascade Mountain Pastures prepared by our in-house chef and served creekside at the Elda Teresa Event Center. Tickets and info: https://bit.ly/fivepine. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Bob Baker and Mark Barringer 6 to 8 p.m. $10. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Hardtails Live Music: Pendleton Highway 7 to 10 p.m. in The Yard. $10 cover; low-back chairs OK. The Barn Live Music: Larkspur Stand 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 • AUGUST 23
Sisters Saloon Live Music: Thomas T and the Blue Chips 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio. Free and open to all. 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.
THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 3
Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture "Field Sounds" a site-specific sound walk on the grounds of Pine Meadow Ranch. This experience makes use of specialized microphones and field recorders to encourage community members in and around PMRCAA to engage with the environment in an imaginative and expansive format. 4 to 6 p.m. $10. Registration and more info: roundhousefoundation.org/events
WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 26
Paulina Springs Books Author reading: Alisha Hamel presents “When Duty Called: An Oral History of Oregon's World War II Veterans," 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com. Oregon Spirit Distillery 50th Celebration for i & j Carpets featuring live music by Precious Byrd. Event runs 3 to 7 p.m. and includes giveaways and food trucks on site. Free entry; family friendly. 740 NE 1st. St., Bend. The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Lickety Split 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages 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 • AUGUST 27
The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Skillethead 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages. 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 • AUGUST 28
Downtown Sisters 4th Friday Artwalk 4 to 7 p.m. Galleries and shops feature art and demonstrations. Information: www.sistersarts.org. Sisters High School "Let's Watch: Clueless" Free outdoor movie screening, presented by Citizens4Community. Doors at 6:45 p.m., movie at 7:45. BYO chair or blanket; concessions for sale. Info: www.citizens4community.com/events. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Sidney Joseph 6 to 8 p.m. Smokey-voiced multi-instrumentalist. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Jimmy & Dee Fretwell 6 to 8 p.m. $10. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20. paulinaspringsbooks.com. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Mortal Soulstice 5 to 7 p.m. Free. Family- and dog-friendly. Info: 541-549-2471.
SATURDAY • AUGUST 29
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 Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. The Barn Live Music: Lickety Split 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www.thebarninsisters.com.
SUNDAY • AUGUST 30
Sisters Saloon Live Music: Silvertone Devils 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio. Free and open to all. 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.
MONDAY • AUGUST 24
MONDAY • AUGUST 31
TUESDAY • AUGUST 25
TUESDAY • SEPTEMBER 1
The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Megan Diana 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Pool Tournament 5:30 p.m. Info: 541-549-6114.
EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Blu Miller 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages.
Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Trivia 6 to 8 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
Event listings are $40. Submit items by 5 p.m. Fridays to jess@nuggetnews.com.
The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Belltower 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages. 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 • SEPTEMBER 4
Episcopal Church of Transfiguration Family Bingo Night 11 games/$20, prizes, $2 raffle tickets to benefit CORE. Meal option at 5 p.m., games start at 5:30. All ages welcome. All cash event. 121 Brooks Camp Rd. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Singer Songwriter Series featuring Geoffrey Louis Koch, Stevie V, and Doc Cosden 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets and more information: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Rick Smith 6 to 8 p.m. Country/rock, blues, and funk. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114. 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 Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20. paulinaspringsbooks.com. Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Bob Baker and Mark Barringer 5 to 7 p.m. Free. Family- and dog-friendly. Info: 541-549-2471. BI
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SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 5
Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Long Gone Wilder 6 to 8 p.m. Local trio playing rock, country, and blues. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Hardtails Live Music: Cover City brings timeless hits. 8 to 10 p.m. in The Yard; low back chairs welcomed. 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, SEPTEMBER 6
Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: The Cider Janes 2 to 4 p.m. Touring trio with beautiful harmonies. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Paulina Springs Books Sunday Scrabble 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Play Scrabble, socialize, and drink coffee. Info: www.paulinaspringsbooks.com.
MONDAY • SEPTEMBER 7
Paulina Springs Books Poetry 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. The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Machado Mijiga 6 to 8 p.m. "Big Lawn Series," Free; all ages.
TUESDAY • SEPTEMBER 8 Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Pool Tournament 5:30 p.m. Info: 541-549-6114.
WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 9 Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).
FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 11
Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: Switchback 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. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tony Lompa 6 to 8 p.m. No cover! Courtyard at 250 W. Cascade Ave. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.
SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 12
Lazy Z Ranch "Let's Watch: A Bug's Life" Free outdoor movie screening, presented by Citizens4Community. Doors at 6:20 p.m., movie at 7:20. BYO chair or blanket; concessions for sale. Info: www.citizens4community.com/events. The Barn Live Music: Oregon Fryer 6 to 8 p.m. on the outdoor stage. Info: www.thebarninsisters.com.