The Nugget Newspaper // Vol. XLIX No. 35 // 2026-09-02

The Nugget Vol. XLIX No. 35

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News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Cascades airshow roars back to Central Oregon By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

The sky over Madras Municipal Airport belonged to jets, warbirds, and vintage flying machines this weekend, as the 26th annual Airshow of the Cascades brought its trademark mix of thunder and family fun to Central Oregon on August 28-29. Organizers call it Oregon’s largest aviation festival, and the numbers back it up. About 20,000 visitors typically show up each year, and this year’s edition gave them plenty to see, hear, and feel in their chests. The headline act was the Patriots Jet Team, six sleek civilian jets that carved tight formations and gut-tightening maneuvers across the sky. The Patriots bill themselves as the largest civilian-owned

A 16-foot microjet made a big impression on the crowd at the Airshow of the Cascades. PHOTO BY ALLEN HESS

aerobatic jet team in the Western Hemisphere, and watching them slice past each other with only feet to spare, it is easy to believe it.

Delays threaten UGB approval deadline By Susan Cobb Correspondent

Sisters is running up against a deadline to enact its urban growth boundary (UGB) expansion plan, and delays in county action are cutting into the timeline. Last week, the Deschutes County Planning Commission kept the written record open until August 31 for the Sisters UGB expansion application and moved the next hearing to September 10, putting at

risk the deadline to secure approval of the Sisters UGB expansion application before end of year. The Commission reasoned that they needed time to review recently submitted materials. The UGB expansion application must be approved by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and Sisters City Council before January 2027. During the second hearing on August See UGB on page 7

What does winter have in store for Sisters? By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief

Folks in Sisters are keeping a sharper eye than usual on the winter forecast this year. The stakes are high. Coming off the worst snow pack in Oregon’s recorded history, local residents worry that another bad winter will push us deeper into

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the hurt locker. A bad winter carries economic implications for winter recreation, impacts on agriculture, already suffering from diminished irrigation delivery, and — perhaps most concerning of all — the threat of another very active wildfire season next year. See WINTER on page 25

“Good, Lord, how is that possible,” shuddered Alice Wells from Sisters as she and husband, Ryan craned their necks and shaded their eyes

as the jets roared by. But the biggest surprise of the weekend may have come from the smallest aircraft. Pilot Torrey Ward flew a

16-foot-long microjet through loops, rolls, point rolls and Cuban 8s, ranging from a See AIRSHOW on page 24

Pups unlikely for Metolius wolf pack By Bill Bartlett Correspondent

Readers ask if the Metolius wolf pack is expanding. The answer is not definitive. The Metolius wolves were first documented as a resident pair in 2021. They occupied an area straddling Jefferson and Deschutes counties, with much of their activity in the Metolius Wildlife Management Unit. By 2024, the pair had successfully produced four pups; three survived into the following year. That made the group an official pack under Oregon’s definition. On March 10, 2025, the adult breeding male of that original pack was poached — illegally killed. To date the responsible party has not been identified. At that point the female was left with the three young wolves from the previous spring. Wolves are strongly territorial, and there is no reason to assume that the female would immediately abandon an area that provides suitable habitat and prey. She would likely continue hunting, traveling, and scent-marking within the territory.

PHOTO COURTESY ODFW

OR-14, a collared and tagged male Oregon gray wolf, keeps watch. Oregon’s minimum known wolf population is 230. Because state wildlife biologists rely on physical sightings, track counts, trail camera imagery, and radio-telemetry, this figure represents a strict baseline minimum, with the actual total likely higher. What happened next? A new male arrived. According to ODFW wolf biologist Aaron Bott, a collared, twoyear-old male known as OR-161 that had originated with the Indigo Pack in Klamath County joined the surviving Metolius group in the summer of 2025. This is exactly the sort of replacement-mate behavior biologists observe: A dispersing male encounters a surviving female and joins her territory rather than the female necessarily abandoning it. According to the Road

Ecology Center, a dispersing male is the most important potential source of a new mate. Oregon’s Wolf Conservation and Management Plan specifically emphasizes natural dispersal as the mechanism by which wolves establish new pairs and maintain genetic connectivity. Oregon has documented wolves dispersing hundreds of miles; historically, 70 percent of tracked Oregon dispersers remained within Oregon. See WOLVES on page 26

Meetings .......................... 3 Announcements................ 8 Obituaries .......................10 Sudoku ........................... 24 Crossword ...................... 29 Letters/Weather ............... 4 Entertainment .................. 9 Partners in Health ........11-21 Poetry ............................ 28 Classifieds................. 30-31

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

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Politics as blood sport — By Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief —

Accusations of dishonesty in law enforcement carry particularly grave consequences. Not only are they personally damaging; if substantiated they rightfully constitute a firing offense. They can cast doubt on the integrity of previous cases, which affects public safety as well as an officer’s career. Once again, an election campaign for Deschutes County Sheriff is embroiled in controversy and rancor, this time around anonymous and fundamentally unsubstantiated accusations that one candidate was dishonest about his military service. A couple of weeks ago, videos appeared on YouTube under the handle “Steve the Monkey Trainer,” featuring footage of campaign appearances by Lt. James McLaughlin talking about the lessons he learned from military service associated with an elite Marine Force Recon unit. McLaughlin served as an ammunition tech in the Marine Corps in the late 1990s up to 2000. He served in support of the elite unit, not as an official part of it, though he received extensive relevant training. The YouTube videos strongly insinuated if not outright accused McLaughlin of inflating his military service record, of benefiting from “stolen valor.” McLaughlin pushed back, providing documentation of his work and training to local media, along with an analysis that he says ties some of the footage used in a “Steve the Monkey Trainer” video to a woman associated with the campaign of McLaughlin’s opponent, Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert. Rupert — himself a Marine Corps veteran —says his campaign had nothing to do with the video postings, and that he respects McLaughlin’s military service. Peter Madsen of The Source published a lengthy, detailed story on the matter last week, which can be read at https://www.bendsource. com/news/localnews/a-serious-allegation-froma-monkey-trainer-is-the-latest-intrigue-in-therace-for-deschutes-county-sheriff/. The Nugget reviewed much of the same material provided to Madsen, and communications to a third party from McLaughlin’s former Marine Corps commanding officer, and came to the same conclusion: Accusations or insinuations that McLaughlin inflated his record or engaged in “stolen valor” are not true. All of this might be readily dismissed as one more kerfuffle in the long history of politicsas-blood-sport in Deschutes County Sheriff races. We are in an election for sheriff right now because the former sheriff, Kent van der Kamp lied repeatedly about his educational background, and was ultimately forced to resign his newly won office. But no matter how jaded we have become due to the constant mudslinging in American

politics, from races for county sheriff to contests for the highest offices in the land, we can’t just accept destructive politics as business as usual. Because of the potential consequences they carry, accusations of dishonesty in law enforcement are especially serious, and must be made responsibly and credibly. Reckless innuendo from unnamed and unaccountable sources is unacceptable. Such tactics should be resolutely renounced by any candidate. Something is fundamentally wrong here. DCSO has to figure out what is awry with its culture, why it repeatedly falls into a mire of internal factionalism and interpersonal rancor whenever an election cycle rolls around. The Sheriff’s Office must, somehow, move beyond the politics of personal destruction that have characterized its culture for too long. This needs to get fixed, because it is corrosive both to public trust in the agency, and to morale. Voters might be forgiven for being made weary, cynical, and disgusted by the whole show — which isn’t just unseemly; it’s been costly, in the form of lawsuits. We here in Sisters are fortunate in that the cadre of deputies who serve our community can stay out of the fray, at least somewhat removed from the perpetual dramas of command. They seem to weather the repeated turmoil with equanimity, keeping their focus on the work at hand, and not on the three-ring circus inside a dumpster fire that every election brings. Voters can readily decide for themselves how relevant each candidate’s past military service is to their readiness to lead a multi-million-dollar agency that is tasked with delivering a wide range of services, from patrol to emergency management to the jail and search-and-rescue. We deserve a clean campaign that reveals to us each candidate’s leadership capabilities, qualifications, and vision. It may be too late for that, even though the campaign season is really just now ramping up ahead of the November election. McLaughlin has, for obvious reasons, stated his intent to file a complaint with the Oregon Secretary of State, and it would not be surprising to see legal action arise from this business. It will be difficult to shift focus away from the heat of conflict to cast light on policy and leadership. The Nugget hopes to sit down with each candidate to discern how each would lead an agency that is critical to public safety in Sisters. Hopefully, the candidates will engage directly with citizens in this part of the county so voters can gauge for themselves whom they wish to support. That’s the kind of campaign we deserve. The candidates can show their readiness to serve by delivering it.

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Published Weekly. ©2026 The Nugget Newspaper, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All advertising which appears in The Nugget is the property of The Nugget and may not be used without explicit permission. The Nugget Newspaper, LLC. assumes no liability or responsibility for information contained in advertisements, articles, stories, lists, calendar etc. within this publication. All submissions to The Nugget Newspaper will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyrighting purposes and subject to The Nugget Newspaper’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially, that all rights are currently available, and that the material in no way infringes upon the rights of any person. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return or safety of artwork, photos, or manuscripts.

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The cost of love By Melody Carlson Columnist

I’ve admired Dolly Parton for years. I grieved to hear of her passing this week. She was so vivacious and alive — shouldn’t she have lived to be 100? Dolly is an impossible act to follow. And I’m sure heaven is a better place now. But Dolly was much more than just a singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and powerful female role model. Dolly had an enormous heart. Incredibly kind, generous and gracious, she was a woman who really understood love. But did love cost her? When I read what may be the cause or hastening of Dolly’s demise, I cried. My heart broke for her, aching in a deep way some cannot fully understand. I cried because I’ve been down a very similar road. Her story is painfully familiar to me. It’s the story of love — and what it can cost us. I’ve always been fascinated by Dolly’s unusual relationship with her husband Carl Dean. Married young, and for nearly 59 years, they were more than just an exception in an era of disposable relationships. Especially in the world of celebrity. Some questioned how a star like Dolly, constantly in the limelight, could remain so devoted to a hermit who barely showed his face in public. Carl’s devotion to Dolly was doubted, too. How could a man who wanted privacy and independence possibly remain faithful to Dolly? How could that outlandish marriage possibly survive, let alone thrive? And yet it did. Their mostly untold story was that somehow they sustained their love — and their love sustained them. But what was the cost of that love? I’m guessing like any marriage, especially the highly visible ones, Dolly and Carl’s romantic relationship had to hit some hard patches. How could they not? There must’ve been moments when Carl grew fed up with the demands of Dolly’s illustrious career and said, “Enough, I’m done!” But he didn’t leave her. And Dolly could’ve slipped away from her

“man-anchor” and sailed off with her boatload of money, propelled by fame and fans. And yet she stayed. Keeping their marriage intact and alive had to have cost them both something. We’ll probably never know the price. But really, what is the cost of love? I have personally related to so much of Dolly’s life over the years. Particularly her marriage. It wasn’t easy to be part of a generation that didn’t fully accept a career woman. Especially if she appeared to be “more successful” than her mate. And consider her poor mate! Being part of a macho generation that expected a husband to prove his worth by “bringing home the bacon.” I could go on about all the challenges of a relationship like this. I could also describe the magical beauty of it. I could even write a book about it! But I have a novel that’s due this week. Dolly admitted to setting her own life aside to care for Carl in the last couple years of his life. Neglecting her own health and career, she devoted her energies to making Carl’s final years the best possible. Because she loved him. I’m sure people around Dolly must’ve questioned her choice to do this, probably suggested she do less, focus more on her career — be “sensible.” But I suspect Dolly, like many of us in similar straits, ignored them. How do you turn your back on the one you have loved, been loved by, for your entire adult life? How do you focus on yourself when your best friend needs you, is dying? Is it even possible? But it cost her and I suspect she knew it. Dolly Parton was from the South and grew up with deep gospel roots. She understood the meaning of Jesus’ words about love, and she showed and lived out love in all areas of her life. Public and private. But this love does not come cheap. Like Jesus, I think Dolly believed that “no one has a greater love than this, to give up one’s life for a friend.”And she did that. I admire Dolly more than ever for loving Carl like that. But what did it cost her? Everything.

Views expressed in this column are solely those of the writer and are not necessarily shared by the Editor or The Nugget Newspaper.

See Letters to the Editor, and Sisters Weather Forecast on page 4.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

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Sisters Festival of Books spotlights local authors

PHOTO BY MITCH TURPEN

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards’ Threads of Hope Quilt and Antique Sale raised funds to support families facing the crisis of cancer.

Local charity helps to ‘crush cancer’ Faith Hope & Charity Vi n e yar ds hos ted the Threads of Hope Quilt and Antique Sale on Saturday, August 29, bringing the community together to support Central Oregon cancer patients and their families. The event featured antiques and 77 handcrafted items, including fullsize quilts, jackets, vests, and table runners. Guests browsed the collection while enjoying local wine, pizza and views of the surrounding vineyard. Proceeds from the quilt and antique sale benefit FHC Crush Cancer, which provides direct financial assistance to Central Oregon families navigating cancer treatment. The organization helps cover essential

expenses not typically paid by insurance, including rent and mortgage payments, utilities, transportation, and childcare. “We started Crush Cancer in 2013 after my daughter-inlaw was diagnosed with cancer,” said Cindy Grossmann, co-owner of Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards. “She has since passed, but her experience showed us how much help families need to overcome the financial hurdles they face while fighting this battle.” Crush Cancer began with a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. This year, its board added the quilt and antique sale as a new summer fundraiser. “When someone purchases a quilt or antique,

they aren’t simply taking home something beautiful,” Grossmann said. “They are helping a local family pay its mortgage, rent, utilities, transportation, or childcare while a loved one fights cancer.” During the past year, FHC Crush Cancer has distributed more than $70,000 to 30 Central Oregon families. Organizers set a goal of raising at least another $10,000 through the Threads of Hope sale. “We had something for everybody, from full-size quilts to vests, jackets, and table runners,” Grossman said. “Everything raised through the sale goes to Crush Cancer and helps families focus on what matters most: healing and hope.”

Sisters Festival of Books will present Voices of Central Oregon on Saturday and Sunday September 12–13. The event is a weekend gathering celebrating the writers who call Central Oregon home. Through fiction, nonfiction, poetry, photography, book arts, and hybrid work, the event invites readers to explore the landscapes, communities, and questions that shape life in the region. A $10 weekend pass includes a $10 coupon toward the purchase of a featured book, offering attendees an accessible way to enjoy the weekend’s author events and support participating writers.

Workshop pricing varies, and advance registration is available at www.sistersfob.org. We are pleased to offer free weekend passes to military veterans. Please use coupon code THANKYOUVETS during checkout. Saturday morning kicks off with a children’s story time at Paulina Springs Books, featuring local picture books about finding one’s own story and a follow-up storytelling activity. Saturday evening at Paulina Springs Books features author conversations and readings. Local writer Kit Tosello will discuss her See AUTHORS on page 23

Trails group hosts film screening Sisters Trails Alliance has partnered with the U.S. Forest Service, K Media Films & Timber Reel Productions and Caldera to offer a screening of the film “Follow the Beaten Path,” a documentary that explores the delicate balance of nonmotorized recreation and conservation in Central Oregon’s national forests. The conversation about balancing land/wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation has been ongoing for decades, but in the 21st century the popularity of outdoor

activity is on the rise, which makes the issue ever more relevant. The film was created with funding support from the Oregon Wildlife Foundation, Back Country Hunters and Anglers, and Oregon Hunters Association. A reception with light appetizers and drinks will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Caldera Arts Campus, 31500 Blue Lake Dr., east of Suttle Lake. Celebrating its 30th year, Caldera is a nonprofit whose mission is to inspire and See FILM on page 23

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 September 15, 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, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

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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.

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September 2 • PM Rain

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Thursday

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Friday

September 4 • PM Showers

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Saturday

September 5 • Partly Cloudy

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Sunday

September 6 • Partly Cloudy

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Monday

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Letters to the Editor…

Sisters Weather

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To the Editor: Deschutes County’s decision to rezone McKenzie Meadows Village (MMV) was appealed to the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) and remanded. In his separate opinion, LUBA Board Member Bassham wrote that the application was: “...best understood as an attempt by intervenor, blessed by the county, to leapfrog the subject property up the priority ladder, from one of the lower rungs to the highest rung.” Those are not my words. They are the words of a member of the Land Use Board of Appeals. And I believe they are important to what is happening here. The Deschutes County Planning Commission should not become the vehicle through which MMV gets another opportunity to leapfrog the process. The City of Sisters conducted an extensive public process. It evaluated the available land and selected the land it determined was best suited to meet Sisters’ long-term needs. MMV did not get the outcome it wanted from that process. That does not mean the process should continue to be reopened until it does. The County has a responsibility to review the City’s application under the applicable land-use criteria. It does not need to keep revisiting the process in search of a different outcome. At some point, the process has to be respected. Cathy Russell

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To the Editor: Oregon’s expert land use tribunal – LUBA – appropriately rejected Deschutes County’s approval of McKenzie Meadows Village’s attempt to jump the queue for inclusion in the Sisters UGB. LUBA not only concluded that the County violated Oregon law when it rezoned MMV’s property, but took pains to point out a concerning pattern of giving developers special treatment here. I am a board member of Central Oregon LandWatch (commenting here as an individual), and want to point out some important factors affecting MMV’s place in the UGB priority

system. First, as confirmed in the LUBA opinion, their property type is the lowest priority category for addition to a UGB; given the surplus of land in higher categories, there is no need to add MMV. The developer served on the UGB advisory committee, but despite that insight came in late with MMV’s proposal. MMV then pursued special treatment, promising affordable housing, quickly constructed. This campaign is based on false premises: • The County rezoning included no requirements for affordable housing. There was nothing that would stop MMV from building whatever is most profitable. • Landowners inside the City’s UGB plan are ready to develop some 55 acres, and a major builder testified that they are ready to build. In other words, MMV offers no timing advantage. MMV continues to complicate the public’s UGB process by threatening a groundless appeal, and the developer seems to be looking at another avenue: a $100-per-person reception for Governor Kotek on September 13, with housing on the agenda. Invitees include public officials and community leaders. We can expect to see more projects pursuing special treatment before the Board of County Commissioners changes over. The public should stay involved in the approval process at the County and local level. Mark Kelley

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To the Editor: According to Merriam-Webster, an oath is a solemn attestation of the truth of one’s words or the sincerity of one’s intentions, specifically one accompanied by calling upon a deity as a witness. The official oath of office for members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate is identical. It is legally codified under federal law as 5 U.S.C. § 3331. “I, AB, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all See LETTERS on page 28

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

e m o c l e W ns o i t a c i l Housing App s a d i n e v n e i B a d n e i v i V a ar p s e d u t i Solic

LARCH COMMONS Sisters Habitat for Humanity’s New Affordable & Workforce Housing Subdivision

La nueva subdivisión de Vivienda Asequible y para Trabajadores de Sisters Habitat for Humanity

Featuring: • 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom homes • Charming cottage design • Close to downtown • Kitchen appliances included

Incluye: • 1, 2, y 3 habitaciones • Encantador diseño • Cerca al centro de la ciudad • Electrodomésticos de cocina incluidos

To learn more and apply, visit: Para solicitar y obtener más información visite: www.sistershabitat.org/apply-for-housing Sisters Habitat Admin Office at 221 S. Ash St., Sisters With thanks to our collaborators

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

County UGB decision drags on By Susan Cobb Correspondent

The Deschutes County Planning Commission (CPC) had two hearings August 27 in which the City of Sisters is the applicant — and in both cases the CPC extended the hearings to September 10. In both cases the CPC wanted to have time to read recently filed public comments and to honor public requests not to end the hearings. The first hearing covered two amendment applications and the second hearing is a third continuation by the CPC of the Sisters UGB expansion application hearing (see story, page 1). County Senior Planner Kyle Collins opened the first hearing summarizing the materials provided to the CPC seven days previous. Collins shared that the hearing includes two applications. One application amends the Deschutes County Development Code (DCC) Title 18 and the County comprehensive plan to address missing protections for lands having natural resources. The second application in the same hearing amends DCC Title 17 to ensure partitioning of land in accordance with City Development code. Lands within a UGB and not yet annexed are called unincorporated urban growth areas (UUGA). Currently, any land that has natural resources located in a Sisters UUGA is not protected. Both the City and County want these lands to be continuously protected. Additionally, any Sisters UUGA are currently under DCC Title 17 for partitioning and the City would like their UUGA lands under the Sisters development code covering partitioning. City Community Planning Director Scott Woodford shared that the City is using a long-standing

joint management agreement between the City and the County which requires the City to initiate amendments to County code or plans for lands within a Sisters UUGA. Woodford noted all application criteria had been met and asked the hearing be closed and deliberations begun. The City’s consultant from Moore, Iacofano, and Glotsman is Matt Hastie. For additional legal expertise the City contracts with Bateman Seidel, whom Melissa Ryan represents. Both consultants were present to cover any UGB, application, land use, or associated legal questions during the hearings. Hastie and Ryan indicated that the County code is unusually complex. Ryan said, “it gets the prize in complexity.” Hastie offered that this might explain why the protection gaps initially went unnoticed. There were five questions noted in the County Staff “findings” report which the consultants addressed in writing before the hearing and orally during the hearing. The questions and replies are herein paraphrased: 1. Are the DCC zones and standards, procedures,

overlays, and maps retained within the UUGA? Yes. Does the City need to make more code changes relative the DCC amendments? No. 2. Is it possible to change underlying comprehensive plan changes for a property without also changing overlying zone amendments. Yes, consistency is important but timing and order of amendments is not. 3. Do former assessments of lands still apply when a governing comprehensive plan zone designations change? The Comprehensive plan amendments are not changing zone designations, but rather are increasing zone designation options for Sisters UUGA. 4. Are the DCC amendments interdependent with the County Comprehensive plan amendments? Yes, and the order of approval is not an issue. 5. For the lands within a UUGA, which jurisdiction administers and approves applications? While unincorporated the City administers and the County have final approval of any land use applications or appeals. During public testimony three supported the amendments and one opposed. A

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SWEET CORN

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 386 N. Fir St., Sisters • 541-549-5831

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A five-point harness buckle takes seconds to click. That small habit is the difference between a close call and a tragedy. That’s why the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is joining law enforcement agencies across Central Oregon for a coordinated child passenger safety enforcement blitz through September 6. Deputies will be watching for unbuckled and improperly restrained children to ensure they are properly secured. Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert said the goal is education and awareness, and helping families avoid tragedy. “Our goal is not to hand out citations. It’s to make sure every family has the information they need to keep their children safe,” said Sheriff Rupert. “We want families to understand the importance of car seat safety. Education helps save lives before enforcement ever does.” In 2024, Oregon recorded 103 deaths linked to a lack

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property owner adjacent to the proposed Sisters UGB who was a former city planning director elsewhere, lauded the City for the code amendments to assure natural resource protections and appreciated the management that gives the City more control over its UUGA. Chris Koback, legal representative for McKenzie Meadows Village, LLC., was against approval noting he sent the Commission two letters August 27, stating that the hearing should be quasijudicial, owners were not given notice about changing their property’s zone designations, the amendments would promote cluster housing developments, etc. The City consultants argue that the application amendments are legislative, no zone changes to properties are being proposed, and the legislative amendments do not promote cluster housing. The City consultants also requested the hearing be closed and deliberations begun. The Commission members voted unanimously to keep the record open until August 31 and to continue the hearing in Commission’s September 10 meeting.

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ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY 541-588-2414

204 W. Adams Ave., Ste 203 www.e2estate.com

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

UGB: Deadline is looming for City of Sisters Continued from page 1

27, City Community Planning Director Scott Woodford reminded the Commission that if the deadline is not met, the City would have to start a new UGB expansion project including housing and land needs assessments, arranging and conducting public engagements, possible master plan updates, etc. Woodford noted that the three letters in June, from State entities which highlighted the missing protections for natural resources, could have been addressed, as noted in the letters, after the Sisters UGB expansion application was approved. (See related story, page 6.) At the County’s behest, the City has created amendments within two applications currently in hearing status which resolve the gaps in protection when those applications are approved. Woodford said that nothing new has been presented since the last hearing that has not already been discussed and addressed. He added that the State process was followed and the criteria met for Sisters UGB expansion application, and requested that the Planning Commission

close the record and move to deliberation. The City’s land use and UGB process consultant Moore, Iacofano, and Glotsman (MIG) representative Matt Hastie readdressed repeated questions and concerns from the Commissioners. Hastie pointed out the one change made to the application was to increase the zoning options available once the Sisters UGB application is approved. The City’s legal land use consultant, Missy Ryan from Bateman Seidel, noted the current project has cost the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) over $380,000 in grants to the City to support the effort since 2021. The DLCD staff advised the City throughout the project. In public testimony nine speakers were for recommending approval, including a statement from Central Oregon Land Watch, and five were against. Three of the against were supporters of McKenzie Meadow Village (MMV) LLC. including their legal advisor and MMV Managing Partner Bill Willitts. Willitts submitted a booklet he created for the record at the hearing. Willitts declared eight owners are declining to be in the Sisters UGB expansion area. He requested the

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Commission get the City to answer questions in the booklet. Willitts expressed his sadness that the City did not consider the MMV property for inclusion in the UGB. Ryan pointed out that the recent Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) decision remanded the BOCC acceptance of the MMV property rezoning application, returning that property to forest lands — which makes it a low priority for consideration within a UGB expansion. One property owner within the proposed UGB spoke against the application because she does not want her property annexed or the City using eminent domain to take her property. Hastie stated, “property owner consent is not a requirement.” Annexation is entirely up to the owners and until an owner applies to be annexed, their property remains under the current designations of the county. Hastie noted earlier in the hearing there are extenuating circumstances under which a city may be forced to use eminent domain but such situations are extremely rare

— usually due to an emergency — and the municipality will collaborate with the owners to find the best solutions. This can occur within a city boundary or within a city’s UGB. A developer wanting to develop a property is not an emergency. County Planning Commission Chair Matt Cyrus reminded City staff that he had asked in two previous hearings for a map indicating the properties of owners within the proposed UGB interested to be annexed or not and could not understand why the City had not taken a survey and produced the requested map. City’s legal counsel Ryan told the planning commissioners that in her 22 years of land use application law, part of

7

which she served on LUBA, an owner not wanting to be within a proposed UGB had to be ignored. Also, owner preference regarding annexation is not a criterion for the Commissioners when determining their recommendation of the Sisters UGB application to the BOCC. Hastie and Ryan noted that property owner feelings about annexation are too changeable through time to be considered when executing a 20-year plan. Regardless of testimony and rebuttal of testimony, the Commissioners wanted time to review Willits’ booklet, and thus kept record open. The hearing will resume for the fourth time later this month, while City staff watch the clock.

8

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Rise for Ri f Nepal N lF Fundraiser d i

PET OF THE WEEK

Thursday, September 3, 5 p.m. at High Camp Taphouse, 523 E. Hwy 20, enjoy a three-course meal plus drinks for $75 per person. All proceeds go to earthquake victims’ families.

Humane Society of Central Oregon

541-382-3537

Social Security: Annual Community Education Dinner series

PAUL

Th is sweet fella was brought to HSCO as a stray with an infection in his eye. He’s since been treated and is ready to sett le into his new home! It won’t take long for him to steal your heart with endless head boops and purrs galore. Come down and meet him today! Paul’s adoption fee has been generously sponsored!

— SPONSORED BY —

The Arends Group

Phil Arends: 541-420-9997 phil@arendsrealtygroup.com Thomas Arends: 541-285-1535 thomas@arendsrealtygroup.com

PONDEROSA PROPERTIES

SISTERS COMMUNITY

LLC

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.

When should you begin taking Social Security? What if you continue to work? W hat about taxes? Join guest expert Mike Lynch, Managing Director of Hartford, to learn about Social Security options and implications, including strategies for maximizing individual, spousal and survivor benefits. Tuesday, September 29, 6 to 7 p.m. at a downtown Sisters art gallery. Free buffet dinner. RSVP required: 541549-1866, Edward Jones office of Karen Kassy. Location and details will be provided when you RSVP to help us provide an accurate headcount for our organizers and caterers.

Retain Your Brain: Annual Community Education Dinner series

Can we prevent—or at least slow—the aging of our brains? Research from the MIT Aging Institute explores how much influence we may have over our cognitive health. Join guest expert Casey Miller, Regional Vice President of Hartford, to learn why your brain may not be the same age as you are, how brain health can affect your lifestyle and fi nances, and practical tips to help age-proof your brain. Wednesday , September 30, 6 to 7 p.m. at a downtown Sisters art gallery. Free buffet dinner. RSVP required: 541-549-1866, Edward Jones office of Karen Kassy. Location and details will be provided when you RSVP to help us provide an accurate headcount for our organizers and caterers.

Interpretive Walks: Summer 2026

Free Saturday morning walks offered by Friends of the Metolius. Kids are welcome, but please no dogs. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water. September 5, 9 to 11 a.m. Camp Sherman Bridge to Riverside Campground and back. Explore the upper river from the Camp Sherman Bridge to the site of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps camp at the Riverside Campground while learning about the natural and human history of the Camp Sherman area. Leader: Scott Blau. For information call 541-595-6439 or 503-7308034.

Free Veterinary Clinic

The fi rst Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at CORE, 222 Trinity Way. Offering no-cost pet vaccines (including rabies), brief wellness exams, dog/cat food, and supplies for unsheltered and low-income pet owners. First come-fi rst serve. liam@ campclinics.org or 541-6333979.

The Si Th Sisters Hi High hD 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.

First Friday Family Fun Bingo Night

Friday, September 4. Locals and visitors of all ages welcome! Th is is a cash event. Dinner for purchase begins at 5 p.m. Games begin at 5:30 p.m. $20 packet includes three cards for each of 10 games with a local merchant gift card awarded as a prize, plus an additional card for the 11th game featuring $100 cash prize. 50/50 Raffle option: tickets are $2 each or 6 for $10. Half of raffle pot will benefit CORE – (Community Outreach, Resources, and Emergency) – Sisters. The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 121 Brooks Camp Rd., Sisters. Info: 541549-7087.

Sisters Garden Club

Monthly membership meeting will be held on Saturday, September 12, at 10 a.m. Claire Hafer, local horticulturalist and landscape designer, will guide us through fi re-resistant plant selection tailored to our unique climate and soil conditions at The Hub, 291 E Main Ave. 541420-6239.

Blackk Butte Bl B SSchool h lD District i i Board of Directors Meeting Change

The BBSD Board of Directors will meet Tuesday, September 15, at 3:30 p.m. to avoid the fi rst day of school. 541-595-6203.

Technology on Your Mind?

Wednesday, September 16, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at St. Edward the Martyr Catholic Church Hall, 123 Trinity Way, Sisters, Bishop Thomas Hennen of the Catholic Diocese of Baker will examine Pope Leo XIV’s recent Encyclical Letter, “Magnificent Humanity, On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence,” focusing on chapter three: Technology and Dominance. Th is presentation will allow for questions, thoughts and conversation. 541-549-9391.

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.

Neighbors Need Medical Rides. You Can Help

Aging, disabled, and underserved passengers depend on STARS volunteer drivers to reach medical appointments and the demand is growing. JOIN STARS NOW to help. You choose when you drive. It’s flexible, meaningful, and directly supports neighbors who urgently depend on STARS to get to care. Training and mileage reimbursement provided. Learn more and apply: htt ps://www.starsride. org/drive-for-us.

Monthly Songwriters’ Sharing Circle

Second Wednesday of the month, 6 to 8 p.m., at The Hub, 291 E. Main Ave. Be in creative community and be inspired while sharing songs, being a great listener, and providing feedback. All ages and skill levels welcome. Free. Info: call or text Jess at 541977-8494.

Sisters Astronomy Club l b Star Party

Friday, September 4, at 7 p.m. and October 2, at 6:30 p.m. at the west end of the south parking lot of Sisters High School, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd. Club members will be on hand with telescopes to share their knowledge and views of the sky with attendees. Free and all are invited. Event will be cancelled if inclement weather interferes. Dress appropriately for potentially chilly nightt ime conditions. Sisters Astronomy Club was founded in 2011 by local amateur astronomers and educators, and is a volunteer committee of Sisters Park & Recreation District. The purpose of the club is to foster enthusiasm for and knowledge of astronomy within the community of Sisters and the surrounding area, and to interact with other people and organizations that share similar interests in astronomy.

Star Party at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards

Thursday, September 10, 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. outside in the vineyard at 70450 NW Lower Valley Dr, Terrebonne. Members of the Sisters Astronomy club will be bringing their telescopes and expertise to make this a fun evening for everyone. Bring your own blankets or lawn chairs. Tickets include a charcuterie box plus your choice of drinks, and every ticket sold helps support the scholarship fund. Visit the FHC Vineyards website for tickets at www. faithhopeandcharityevents. com/event-details/star-party.

Happy 80th Birthday, Karen Freeman! Enjoy your special day on the Pickleball courts!

Celebration of Life Bob Boswell

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, in the Sisters High School Gymnasium. All who knew Bob are welcome.

SISTERS-AR EA CHURCHES

Baha’i B Bah Ba aha ha’i ha’ ’ i Faith Faiithh For information, devotions, study groups, etc., contact Shauna Rocha 541-647-9826 • www.bahai.org www.bahai.us • www.bahaiteachings.org

Shep Sh hep ephhe herdd of of the thhe Hills Hill Hi llss Lutheran ll Luth Lu ther her eran an Church Chu hurc hurc rchh (ELCA) (ELCA)) (ELC (E Shepherd 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.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

9

Outlaws volleyball posts a sweep on the road By Rongi Yost Correspondent

The Lady Outlaws posted a 25-22, 25-18, and 25-16 road win at Amity on Saturday, August 29, in their first match of the season. Amity got off to a quick start in the first set, but a kill from Helene Voigt, a foreign exchange student from Germany and new to the squad, put down a big kill to tie it up at 6-6. From there the Outlaws slowly edged ahead. Brooke Lindsay had a nice five-run service stretch that included two aces that took the

Outlaws to a 13-9 advantage. Voigt had eight kills in the set that helped the Outlaws hold on for the win. The second set was much tighter, and tied up four different times. After the score was knotted at 17-17, the Outlaws pulled ahead and only allowed the Warriors one more point in the set. Lindsay had a nice fivepoint serving run to close out the set and Maici Cotner led the team with six timely kills. The Warriors were able to tie it up at 6-6 in the final set, but the Outlaws took over from there and held onto the lead to the finish. Josta

SISTERS-AREA

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 Event: 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).

Fuentes had a nice seven-point serving run early in the set, and midway through Paityn Cotner had a big four-point run that included back-to-back kills from Maici and a big block from Shanitah Few that pushed the Outlaws to a 16-9 advantage. Alli Fogarty closed out the set with a six-point run from the line that included three aces, and a block and kill from Lindsay. The Outlaws finished with a strong performance at the service line with 13 aces, with Fogarty and Fuentes contributing four each. Voigt finished with a double-double, 13 kills,

and 12 digs. Maici Cotner put down 12 kills, and Fogarty led the defense with 17 digs. Paityn Cotner ran the offense well, and dished out 31 assists. Coach Jason Monaghan said, “It was a good start to the season. We are working out some kinks as we progress through our preseason. This team has the athletes to go as far as they will allow themselves.” The Lady Outlaws will hit the road Thursday, September 3, for a match at YamhillCarlton. On Saturday they will host a three-way match with Oakridge and Crane.

MONDAY • SEPTEMBER 7 (cont.) The Suttle Lodge Live Music: Machado Mijiga 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.

WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 9 Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt "Handpicked Series," 6 to 8 p.m. No cover. Info: frankiesinsisters.com. Sisters Saloon Poker Night Texas Hold’em 5:30 p.m. to close upstairs. 21+. $20 (add'l $5 when bounty chip is played).

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 3 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.

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 10

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. 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

Bluegrass trio from Durango, CO, are heroes on the forefront of breaking through the genre with free-flowing musical interplay

BendTicket.com $15

Sat., Sept. 12 • 7 p.m. Blackwater Railroad Company

This folk-rock and Americana powerhouse from Seward, AK, has redefined the “massive sound” of the Last Frontier.

BendTicket.com $20

Wed., Sept. 16 • 7 p.m. Tommy Castro and the Painkillers BendTicket.com $30

Pub opens 30 minutes prior to shows.

302 E. Main | BelfryEvents.com

Events & Entertainment TUESDAY • SEPTEMBER 8

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 4

Thurs., Sept. 10 • 7 p.m. Stillhouse Junkies

NG

O

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

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

EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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 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. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Hana Fleur 6 to 8 p.m. Touring Americana/folk artist. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. 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

East Main Avenue Glory Daze Car Show 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Info: www.sistersrecreation.com. 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. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Live Music: Call Down Thunder (Grateful Dead Tribute) 7:30 to 10 p.m. Jam band style improvised explorations and carefully crafted set lists create an authentic Grateful Dead listening experience Tickets at bendticket.com. The Barn Live Music: Oregon Fryer 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. Frankie's in Sisters Live Music: Haute Mélange 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets: www.frankiesinsisters.com/our-events/. Paulina Springs Books, et. al. Voices of Central Oregon! A Sisters Festival of Books event. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Celebrating the writers who call this place home. Through fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and hybrid work, local authors explore the landscapes, communities, and questions that define life in Central Oregon. Tickets and info: www.sistersfob.org.

SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 13

Paulina Springs Books, et. al. Voices of Central Oregon! A Sisters Festival of Books event. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrating the writers who call this place home. Through fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and hybrid work, local authors explore the landscapes, communities, and questions that define life in Central Oregon. Tickets and info: www.sistersfob.org.

Event listings are $40. Submit items by 5 p.m. Fridays to jess@nuggetnews.com.

SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 13 (cont.) 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. Sisters Saloon Live Music: Cover Story 6 to 8 p.m. on the patio. Free and open to all ages. 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 14

Paulina Springs Books "Love's Perfection" An Evening with Rumi Devotional poetry curated to arouse the heart during an evening of deep listening and meaningful dialogue. Suggested Donation: $20+; a portion of donations to benefit Sisters Festival of Books. Email Krayna at kraynalucky@gmail.com to register. 5:30 to 7 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

TUESDAY • SEPTEMBER 15

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

WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 16

Paulina Springs Books Analog Night — crafting, puzzles, games, coloring, journaling, or whatever analog activity you enjoy. All ages welcome! Hosted by Krista West. 5:30 to 7 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).

THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 17

Food Cart Garden at Eurosports Trivia Night 13th annual family-friendly trivia. Free. 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Sign up at 5:30. Info: call 541-549-2471. Paulina Springs Books Author Event: Evan Morgan Williams presents “The Divide: Stories" at 6:30 p.m. Info: paulinaspringsbooks.com.

FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 18

Eurosports Food Cart Garden Music: NTT the Duo 5 to 7 p.m. Free. Family- and dog-friendly. Info: 541-549-2471. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Live Music: Joyful Lane 6 to 8 p.m. Multi-instrumentalist Lane Weiss brings joy-filled music. No cover. Info: www.lazyzranch.com/events. Paulina Springs Books Magic: The Gathering nights Booster Draft 5 p.m. $20. paulinaspringsbooks.com. Hardtails Outlaw Country Dive Bar & Grill Karaoke 9 p.m. Information call 541-549-6114.

SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 19

Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture"Natural Dye Workshop: Exploring the Mushroom & Lichen Dye Palette of Oregon" A hands-on two-day workshop, September 19 and 20, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., where participants discover the surprisingly vibrant world of fungal and lichen dyes found in Oregon. Students gain both the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to confidently work with foraged mushrooms and lichens as a natural dye source. $300. Registration and info: www.roundhousefoundation.org/events. Lazy Z Ranch Wines Crush & Comb Harvest Fest 12 to 5 p.m. Meet Central Oregon winemakers at an outdoor harvest tasting featuring local grape wines, wine grapes, and newly harvested honey. $30 advance/$35 day of. Info: www. lazyzranch.com/event. Sisters Eagle Airport "Let's Watch: Up" 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.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Obituaries

Outlaws fall on soccer pitch in opener

Marlee Suzanne LeDai December 29, 1948 – August 26, 2026

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the final act of grace by our beloved mother, Marlee Suzanne LeDai, who took her much anticipated trip over the rainbow when she took her final breath on August 26, 2026 in Spokane, Washington. Born on December 29, 1948, to Marvin and Virginia Smith, Marlee spent her childhood years with her siblings and cousins near the family farm in Pratt, Kansas, before moving to Escondido, California, at the age of eight. There she was a majorette in her high school marching band, and attended Westmont College and San Diego State University before leaving to join the Jesus People Movement of the 1970s. Marlee lived a life of adventure traveling all over the world including numerous trips to her favorite place, Jerusalem. She also lived and worked overseas including L’Abri in Switzerland in the 1970s, participated in daring missions work such as smuggling Bibles into communist Poland, spent 12 years living in Denmark, and she has been the keynote speaker for women’s conferences around the world. She also faithfully mentored incarcerated women through Freedom in the Son, a women’s ministry in Oregon and coached women around the world going through life transitions as a certified life coach. As the former editor in chief of Virtue Magazine, a popular Christian women’s magazine, editor at Multnomah Publishing (now Penguin Random House) and the author of nearly thirty non-fiction books for adults and children, Marlee made a life out of weaving meaning and beauty into words as a writer, editor, and life coach. Her most recent books include “Go Girl: Finding Adventure Wherever the Road Leads” and “Living Spaces: Bringing Style and Spirit to Your Home” published by Revell in 2004. While Alzheimer’s disease may have stolen her ability to write and communicate, Marlee’s legacy is in the beauty of her writing and words that bring truth, grace, and encouragement to all those who will continue to be blessed by her writing. Marlee was a C. S. Lewis Gold Medal recipient, and she helped create Tyndale’s “Family Bible” and Focus on the Family’s “Caring

By Rongi Yost Correspondent

for Aging Love Ones.” Her translations of Hans Christian Anderson stories from Danish to English remain the best-selling editions with over seven million books sold. Those that knew Marlee will likely remember her incredible ability to make everything more beautiful. Whether she was sewing matching Easter dresses for her three daughters, styling window boxes and her front porch with spring pansies at her Tollgate home, hosting a “pink” party for her grandchildren at her Silverton cottage, or putting together a themed picnic with her beloved Chip at Manito Park, Marlee brought beauty and whimsy into everything she did. She celebrated ordinary moments and looked for every chance to embellish and romanticize life. She often was seen wearing red shoes, a symbol of the power every woman carries within (often quoting her favorite line from The Wizard of Oz: ”You’ve always had the power, my dear. You’ve had it all along.”), even donning a pair of vibrant red cowboy boots under a white dress on the day of her wedding to Chip. Although Marlee’s life was so accomplished, perhaps what she was most proud of and what brought her the most meaning was raising three strong daughters and being Mimi to her six grandchildren. To them, her legacy for beauty in the ordinary, her love for Jesus, and her ability to inspire goodness and strength in those around her is already evident in their lives in so many tangible ways. Marlee is survived by Chip O’Brien, the love of her life whom she would have celebrated 20 years of marriage to the day after her death; her three daughters, Tirza Elizabeth Wibel (Shane), Leyah Mathilde Jensen (Graeme), and Joy Melissa Jensen; her six grandchildren, Mira Wibel, Annah Wibel, West Wibel, Ruby Wibel, Silas Wibel, Beau Marshall; her brother, Mark Smith (Molly); and sister, Carol Higgins (Bob).

The Outlaws soccer squad fell 5-1 in their season opener at Salem Academy on Saturday, August 29. Sisters had six new players almost completely new to the varsity pitch while Salem Academy returned a much more experienced roster, with 13 of their 17 players either a junior or senior. The Crusaders scored at the five-minute mark, but the Outlaws responded and tied it up in the 38th minute off a corner. Felix Montanez delivered a great ball into the box, and Tyler Hamlington created the chance by redirecting it to Jasper Jensen, who confidently buried it in for the finish. At the half the score was even 1-1. Salem Academy took the lead at the 60th minute due to a defensive miscue by the Outlaws, and then scored again a few minutes later. They added a goal off a corner kick at approximately the 70th minute and then finished their scoring spree with a free kick shortly after that. Coach Ryley Newport said, “The score was disappointing and honestly surprising because it didn’t feel representative of how evenly the teams played for significant stretches. The film showed us some very clear things we need to improve, particularly defending set pieces and continuing to get our new goalkeepers the training and game experience they need.” Although the team lost,

Newport told The Nugget there were a lot of positives, including play from Malachi Reyes and Michael Clayton. Newport noted that Reyes (freshman) started at outside back in his first varsity match, and played incredibly composed and looked like he belonged. Clayton got in his first varsity minutes, and created several dangerous opportunities from the outside, including crosses that came very close to connecting with JB Greenwood in front of the goal. At the close of the game Newport told his players that the match was exactly what preseason games are for. “We’re not going to let a 1-5 score define what we saw on the field, but we’re also going to learn from the mistakes that created that score,”

said Newport. “We want the guys focused on getting better, playing for each other, and understanding that every game is preparing us for league. “We’re especially excited about the culture of this group,” added Newport. “Nobody quit when the game got away from us, players were willing to move into unfamiliar positions when teammates needed them, and our younger players didn’t look intimidated by their first varsity experience.” The Outlaws were scheduled to open league play on Tuesday, September 1, at home against YamhillCarlton. They’ll face a tough Dayton team on the road two days later, and then wrap up the week at home on Saturday against Lost River/Bonanza.

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2026

Partners in Health & Well-Being Photo courtesy Mosaic Community Health. See story, page 21.

One of the great draws of Sisters Country is the opportunity to live in a healthful environment that promotes a sense of well-being. Many people in Sisters live active lives, out in the garden or on the trail — on a bike, on foot, or on horseback. We engage in all kinds of sporting activities. Central Oregon is full of providers of services that enhance health and well-being. They’re here for the same reasons, and they understand the need to help their clients and patients stay on the path of adventure — or get back on it when injury takes them down. Whether it’s healing from an injury or maintaining good health from head to toe, these

providers seek to work in partnership with their patients and clients — because healthcare is most efficient and effective when we are proactive and engaged. No matter what is ailing or troubling us, we do better when we act early, before problems become acute. And each of the providers profiled in Partners in Health and WellBeing make it easy and comfortable to act. Whether we need help with our oral health, a pickleball injury, or a serious health crisis, there are caring people in this community who can help directly or by pointing us in the direction of appropriate resources. Sisters’ health practitioners are not only

professionals — they are part of the community, and they give back in myriad ways, from donating services to those in need to active volunteering in Sisters’ organizations and events. Staying healthy and fit can be fun or relaxing — or both — and many providers make getting and staying well interesting and fun. Even the hard stuff can be pretty much painless when we’re in the hands of professionals who truly care and who stay at the very forefront of their practice.

Program is all about living well ......................... 12

Staying strong for the life you want .............. 16

Teaming up to deliver effective, efficient care .. 19

A ride can be a gift of life ....................... 14

Working hard and recovering well ................ 17

Yoga studio opens in Sisters Country ............ 20

Building a clear path through serious illness ... 14

Seniors’ monthly gathering on tap .............. 18

Personalized care for all ages ........................ 20

Practice focuses on community health .............15

Sisters finds wellness in a cup .............................. 18

Women pick up the barbell for strength, aesthetics .. 16

Clinic helps folks stay in the game .............. 18

Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief

Sweat PNW offers more than a workout ....... 20 Making back-to-school healthier and easier in Sisters ........................... 21

A special section presented by The Nugget Newspaper

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Partners in Health & Well-Being • The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026

Program is all about For Bethany Benefield, the mission and purpose of Partners in Care is straightforward: “It’s about living well — and doing that till the end.” Benefield manages the Transitions program for Partners In Care, an independent nonprofit based in Bend that offers the full spectrum of transitional support at all stages of palliative and hospice care. They are the only nonprofit in the region that offers all services and they operate the only hospice house in Central Oregon. Partners In Care is heavily integrated into the Sisters community, working with Serving Our Seniors (SOS), which is a volunteer action team of Age Friendly Sisters Country that works with Citizens4Community (C4C) to support aging in place in Sisters. Benefield notes that Sisters is “very intentional” in its efforts to support seniors. “We’ve been able to become part of the community effort to serve Sisters’ seniors,” she said. “It’s a great place to live, obviously, but it’s not the easiest place to age. It really is about the community working with each other. Our partnerships help us get a lot farther than if we were doing this on our own.” In Sisters, Partners In Care Transitions often refers people to STARS for transportation to medical appointments. Transitions is a no-cost, nonclinical case management program for medically fragile individuals with a limited prognosis, including those who may not qualify for home health or hospice. Transitions Coordinators work with each client to help identify questions, concerns, and areas of need for a personalized plan.

living well

Transitions is offered to individuals in any care setting, such as private homes, assisted living and memory care facilities, adult foster homes, rehab facilities, as well as the hospital. “We help the clients and families navigate different resources that are available in the community,” said Benefield. “Making sure that clients and families have accurate information so they can make informed decisions about their care.” Care needs can vary widely and are very individual. Transitions volunteers engage directly with people, Benefield noted, “thinking through those unique scenarios in real time rather than just handing them a static roster of services.” It’s common for Transitions Coordinators to work with clients over several months or even years. Benefield notes that it is helpful for people to have a real understanding of the services that are available to them before those

• A REFERRAL TO TRANSITIONS TYPICALLY RESULTS IN A HOME VISIT to address any initial resource needs and evaluate the need for ongoing Transitions support. Patients and Coordinators will create an understanding as to the frequency of their check-ins. Most Transitions clients receive monthly phone calls to determine if there are any new needs or changes, and additional home visits can be scheduled as needed. • TRANSITIONS IS A NON-MEDICAL, RESOURCEBASED PROGRAM. Transitions Coordinators and Volunteers are not able to provide any handson physical care. They do not provide respite or caregiving and are not a substitute for seeking appropriate medical attention. • TRANSITIONS SUPPORT IS OFFERED AT NO COST to clients as part of the ongoing mission of Partners In Care.

needs become real and pressing. Transitions Coordinators can help map out all of the things their clients might want to take into consideration — even if they’re five years from acting on it. While they aim to be an excellent point of contact for any resource needs, they also develop relationships with clients and their loved ones. Transitions is available at any time to address needs as they arise, but also offer friendly check-ins either over the phone or in person. In some instances, they also offer friendly volunteer visits, in addition to ongoing Transitions case management. Benefield also consults with clients on Oregon Health Plan. She notes that “gaps are widening” between seniors’ needs and the availability of services to meet those needs. As an independent nonprofit that exists “only to benefit the community and has no other agenda,” Partners in Care can step into those gaps. The program is constantly evolving in an effort to do just that. “We kind of see where the tension points are in the community with the seniors, and try to grow to meet the need,” Benefield said. The program is always in need of volunteers. “Having people who are comfortable in these kinds of situations is invaluable,” said Benefield. Partners In Care offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities. All of them ultimately support programs and missions. “There are so many ways that volunteers can use their time,” Benefield said. Benefield said that it is important that people let Transitions know if they know someone with a need. Anyone can refer to the

Transitions program (the patient, medical providers, community members, family members). For more information about the program, or to make a referral, call the Transitions team Monday– Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at 541-3221289. Outside those hours call 541-382-5882 and a Transitions team member will call back the next business day. Another Sisters partnership is with Paulina Springs Books. Benefield hosts a monthly book club that is free and open to anyone in the community, held the second Wednesday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Paulina Springs Books, 252 W. Hood Ave. Through a grant from St. Charles Health System, Partners In Care provides books to everyone attending. “I have a solid group of 18 people who are the core of the group,” Benefield said. It draws people from their 30s to their 80s, and they discover many common threads of interest and experience. Benefield emphasizes that it’s not a book club “about death.” “The theme is life,” she said. “Life and living… It’s about living well. It’s about love and loss. The theme is just the human experience.” On September 9, the group will discuss “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi. If interested, RSVP so the appropriate number of books can be ordered by calling Benefield at 541-706-0567 or by emailing com munityevents@partnersbend.org. The book club is the kind of community connection that enables Partners in Care to be so effective in their work — and it’s a connection that Benefield personally relishes. “It’s my favorite part of my job,” she said. “And that’s saying a lot, because I love my job!”

The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026 • Partners in Health & Well-Being 13

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Partners in Health & Well-Being • The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026

A ride can be a gift of life Building a clear path through serious illness For older adults, veterans, people with disabilities, and the underserved who cannot drive, a ride from STARS can mean access to medical care, greater independence, and meaningful human connection. Community partners, volunteer drivers, dispatchers, and supporters help neighbors remain healthy, independent, and connected to Sisters Country. The Roundhouse Foundation and St. Charles Health System are important and reliable partners in this work. Their support has helped STARS build a more sustainable transportation program that responds to real needs in our community. “STARS is making a meaningful difference in our community by ensuring that residents who cannot drive or lack transportation can still access the healthcare they need. We’re grateful for this partnership, which helps remove barriers to care and provides neighbors with a reliable, caring connection to their medical appointments,” said Carlos Salcedo, CDP, Manager of Community Partnerships at St. Charles Health System.

Community support pays for the infrastructure that makes every ride possible, including scheduling and dispatch software, fuel assistance, insurance, telephone service, volunteer recruitment and retention, training, outreach, and other essential operating needs. A strong community investment is what allows that energy to become a reliable, lasting service. Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla said, “Programs like STARS offer services that small, rural communities like Sisters often don’t have access to. Providing more than rides for medical appointments, they offer companionship and support for the community members who need it most. The dedicated volunteers really make this program shine.” STARS will kick off their annual fundraising campaign this fall, thankful to those who continue to believe that residents of our community should never go without medical care because they do not have a ride. STARS is hiring a part-time executive director. Find information at www.starsride.org.

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Folks in Sisters have been availing themselves of the services of ClearPath Health Care for many years — but under a previous name, Hospice of Redmond. “We’ve simply expanded our services and we needed a name that reflects what we do,” said ClearPath Community Engagement Manager Lauren Lebien. The expansion of services is significant. ClearPath offers inhome primary care, which can be a critical matter to people 55 and older who, for whatever reason, are homebound and have a hard time getting in to see a physician. The care is thorough and attentive. Visits last approximately 45 minutes to one hour, allowing the ClearPath clinician to truly spend time learning what is important to the patient, helping them understand their disease process, and collaborating on their care plan. Coming to the home alleviates the stresses and logistical complications of arranging transport for the housebound. ClearPath will bill Medicare, Medicaid, and most major private insurance plans directly,

just as a traditional clinic would. The patient is responsible only for standard copays and deductibles. Call the office at 541-3230853, and they can verify your Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance coverage before your first visit. ClearPath offers hospice and grief-support services across Central Oregon, and has always been a helpful and comforting presence in Sisters. They also offer a transitions program designed as a non-medical program that supports you or your loved one through the mental, physical, and emotional changes that may accompany a serious illness. The ClearPath Transitions Coordinator offers suggestions to enhance the quality of your life or that of your loved one. It is up to the client to choose what would be of help to them. ClearPath has always considered Sisters a key part of their service area, and that focus continues. “We want people in Sisters to know that we are here for them,” Lebien said.

The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026 • Partners in Health & Well-Being 15

PATIENTS LOVE SISTERS DENTAL! Ralph S. — Dr. Trevor Frideres, his dental assistants and administrative staff have provided me with superior dental services for seven years. I have had several different procedures, some major, and all very successful. From the moment you walk into their office it is obvious that you are in a caring environment.

Practice focuses on

community health

Helping folks in Sisters achieve Emergency) which helps people good dental health and hygiene with shelter and basic needs, is obviously important to Sisters and with Sisters Family Access Dental — they are a dental prac- Network (FAN) who helps famitice, after all. But the vision of lies in need. community health that Dr. Trevor “Our team has relationships Frideres and his staff carry goes with those two [organizations],” way beyond individuals’ teeth and Dr. Frideres said. “Our team gums. They want to help Sisters knows to always answer that call. thrive. We try to be a safety net for othThat’s evidenced in their ini- er organizations that need help tiative to support local artists in these situations, trying to help and makers. They regularly buy a those who are helping others.” piece of art or a product of a local Sometimes people will donate maker, display it in their office for money toward another person’s a period of time, then raffle it to dental care, and Sisters Dental their patients. That creates a win- will match the gift. win-win scenario. An artist gets Dr. Frideres’ commitment to a sale (and some free advertising community also includes buildin a place that’s not your typical ing the profession. The practice art gallery), the practice gets to has helped two local kids get into beautify their surroundings, and a dental school, with two more on lucky patient gets to take home a the path into dentistry as well. nice piece of local creativity. Another is applying for dental Sisters Dental’s staff live and hygiene school this year. work in Sisters and feel invested The ethic of service is deeply in their community. They shop embedded in Dr. Frideres’ famand dine locally, and support local ily. His mother ran a community schools and events. That’s a major health center in Montana, and part of the practice’s ethos. other relatives worked in health“Our main focus is to be con- care in ways that made it accesnected in our community,” Dr. sible to everyone. Frideres said. “That was how health care was Part of Dr. Frideres motivation delivered in my family, and that’s in operating his own indepen- just how I thought it should be,” dent practice is that it gives him he said. “We’ve got to make things the flexibility to find ways to help work, right? That’s what we do.” patients. Many of the practice’s “Our team knows to always initiatives are focused on answer that call. We try to helping people who would otherwise have a hard time be a safety net for other accessing dental care. They offered a free dental day for organizations that need help the unhoused population in in these situations, trying Sisters earlier this year, and to help those who are plan another such event for spring of 2027. They work helping others. with CORE (Community — Dr. Trevor Frideres Outreach, Resources and

Mary K. — I highly recommend Sisters Dental! All the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I have had a lot of work on my mouth, multiple implants, cavities, pulled teeth, just bad teeth! Obviously I go there a lot and couldn’t be more pleased with the service they provide! Besides, Trevor always has on a good playlist and his singing is not bad either! Harold J. — Over the years, my visits to Sisters Dental have always been met with friendly, efficient and knowledgeable staff who seem to care about the patient. I fully recommend Sisters Dental to my friends and anyone looking for dental care. The dental hygienists I have met are “top notch” and I enjoy the conversation and banter with them.

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Partners in Health & Well-Being • The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026

Women pick up the barbell for strength & aesthetics Fitness trainer Nick Eldridge has seen a major shift in the way women use the gym during his career. Many more women have taken up weight training. “When I first started, it was 70/30 men-to-women,” he told The Nugget. “Now, in most gyms, it’s 50/50, if not a little more women.” Weight training — or resistance training of any kind — is beneficial to everyone, but it has particular benefits for women in helping to maintain bone density and muscle mass through the hormonal changes associated with menopause. Eldridge’s clientele is generally most interested in maintaining good physical function and enhancing performance in their favorite activities rather than aesthetics. “It’s going to make your body more durable,” the trainer said. Resistance training helps build muscle that supports joints and connective tissue. More muscle mass means more calorie burning, and building strength has heart health benefits. Eldridge does see an image shift for women using weights: as women see more women in the gym and on social media lifting weights, the activity becomes normalized and

PHOTO PROVIDED

Kimberly Young took up weight training to build strength and confidence. desirable. Kimberly Young, The Nugget’s community marketing partner, took up weight training in 2011. For her, it was a shift in paradigm. She recalled growing up in the 1990s with the influence of Cosmopolitan Magazine and Victoria’s Secret models. “Wafer thin was what we wanted to be, so we were all cardio junkies,” she said. “I think I was 101 [pounds] on my wedding day.” When she hit her 30s, knowing that her dad had had a heart attack in his 30s, she wanted to get fit. “Nothing stuck till a friend

showed me a picture of her sister, and I asked what she did,” Young recalled. What caught her eye? “She was strong,” she said, “Muscular and strong.” She got that way through lifting weights. So Young took up Crossit, which emphasizes a combination of strength and endurance, at one of the first gyms in Bend. “In the beginning it was awful,” she said. “It was hard.” But about six months in, she deadlifted 85 pounds and found herself tremendously excited and satisfied. She had come to love the hard work and what it gave her. Young became a competitor and coach. At her peak, she deadlifted 315 pounds and had a 275-pound back squat. She was 140 pounds of solid muscle, and she felt good — and she liked the way she looked. “There was a confidence that being thin didn’t give me,” she said. It wasn’t just physical. Working hard and hitting goals changed her in other ways. “I could do a lot of things,” she said. “Physical capabilities. And then with the physical capabilities came mental capabilities.” Now she lifts as much for the

mental and psychological benefits as for the physical and aesthetic. “I do it basically for my own mental health,” she said, noting that weight training provides dopamine and endorphins that are soothing, calming, and make a person feel good through the day. “It’s the one-and-half hours of my day when nobody is asking anything of me,” she noted. Young does not downplay the aesthetic aspect of having a strong physique from weight training. Feeling good about how you look breeds confidence, too. “At 47, it’s kind of cool to have nice, developed, toned legs.” Young is leery of the comeback of a “skinny” aesthetic with the rise in the use of Ozempic and similar medical products. But she is confident that the social promotion of fit, muscular women is here to stay. “The skinny factor won’t be as prevailing as it was in the ’90s,” she said. “We’re a little more educated.” Young acknowledges that not everyone wants to hit the weights with competition in mind. You don’t need to to reap real benefits. “Even two times a week can be preventative measures for dementia, metabolism, heart disease.”

Staying strong for the life you want In Central Oregon, health means more than numbers on a lab report. It means being able to hike the trail you love, ski another season, travel somewhere new, get down on the floor with your grandchildren and get back up again. That idea is at the heart of PeakMD Longevity & Precision Medicine, a physician-led practice in Sisters founded by Siobhan Gray, MD. “Most of us don’t simply want to live longer,” Gray said. “We want to stay strong, healthy, and engaged enough to keep doing the things that make our lives meaningful.” Traditional medicine is excellent at diagnosing and treating disease. But short medical visits don’t always leave time to step back and ask a different question: Where is your health headed? At PeakMD, that conversation can begin with a 90-minute Precision Consultation — a comprehensive look at health history, family history, current labs and risk factors, lifestyle, fitness, sleep, metabolic health,

and personal goals. Additional testing may be recommended when it can provide meaningful information. The goal isn’t more testing. It’s clarity. “I don’t think people need more health noise,” Gray said. “They need to know what actually matters for them and what will make the biggest difference over the next 10, 20, or 30 years.” That philosophy inspired PeakMD’s guiding idea: Find your North. For one person, “North” might mean reducing cardiovascular risk. For another, it might mean building muscle and protecting bone, navigating midlife changes, improving metabolic health, or maintaining the fitness to keep exploring Central Oregon. PeakMD also includes Daybreak Recovery Spa, a space for recovery, movement, and community because health isn’t built only in a doctor’s office. Ultimately, longevity isn’t about chasing a number. It’s about staying strong enough for the life you want.

The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026 • Partners in Health & Well-Being 17

DEDICATED TO MAKING HEALTH AND WELLNESS A WAY OF LIFE

Working hard and

recovering well

Our understanding of what “fitness” looks like has grown more sophisticated and more nuanced in recent years. Fitness is not all one thing or another, and it doesn’t mean the same thing for each person. Our fitness profiles and goals change at different phases of life. Recovery has become a significant aspect of fitness. Professionals have learned that simply working hard is not, on its own, the key to success. We need sleep and hydration to optimize the gains we reap from exercise, and many professionals in the industry advocate for other active measures to boost recovery. Nick Eldridge is a trainer at Sisters Athletic Club (SAC), an avid ultra-distance runner who has been in the field for a couple of decades. “The message we are trying to send is we do want you to work hard, but we do want you to take care of your body at the same time,” he said. SAC now offers a dedicated “wellness room” that features aids to recovery and wellness: red light; infrared sauna; compression boots; hydro-massage tables. The Club also has a saltwater pool, which can be used for swim workouts, hydrotherapy, and active recovery. There are many benefits to working with a trainer, whether you are working toward a specific event like a race or a hiking or cycling trip, or simply want help creating a fitness program that works for you. It’s a very good idea to work with a trainer if you are coming off an injury or surgery; a good trainer can help identify exercises that will restore function and those that should be avoided or worked back in slowly

and carefully. For people who are new to the gym, or returning after a long layoff, working with a trainer can help get you going, keep you going and build confidence. Working with a trainer can reduce the risk of injury, as the trainer is there to make sure their client is not overdoing it in an initial burst of enthusiasm, and is using correct form. “For the average person, they can skip a few hurdles that they might run into on their own,” Eldridge said. “Number one across the board for me is to reduce the risk of injury.” He feels that he’s done his job when a client no longer needs him to work comfortably, consistently and confidently in the gym. “If you can be consistent, your need for me… becomes less,” Eldridge said. “I actually appreciate it when someone outgrows the need for me. Means I’ve done a good job.” Eldridge put his feet on the path into the fitness world early. “I had knee surgery when I was 11,” he recalled. “I took a weird fall on a play structure.” He was intrigued by the physical therapy he engaged in, an interest that increased when he played basketball in college. He ended up going into fitness as a trainer rather than as a physical therapist, but the goals are similar: helping people move well, avoid injury, and enjoy the benefits of strength and endurance. Eldridge appreciates the size and scale of SAC, where it’s easy to make personal connections and to see the growth in his clients. He finds the work fulfilling — and that is deeply meaningful to him. “Fulfillment is what I’ve always been chasing,” he said.

541-549-6878 | sistersathleticclub.com

18

Partners in Health & Well-Being • The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026

Seniors’ monthly Sisters finds gathering on tap wellness in a cup

Clinic helps folks stay in the game

This spring, local nonprofits Citizens4 Community (C4C) and Age-Friendly Sisters Country (AFSC) hosted a series of community dialogues on “Serving Our Seniors (SOS).” Through focus groups, forums, and surveys, leaders identified current needs and challenges faced by older residents of Sisters Country. A key concern was the lack of a central gathering space for social connection and access to resources. In response, a cohort of service providers and volunteers are launching a new pilot program called “Hive Time.” Starting in October, Hive Time will take place the first Friday of the month, 2-4 p.m. at The Lodge. The meetups are targeted toward older residents and their care partners. Each gathering will offer time for casual social connection over refreshments, hosted by SOS volunteers. Following an educational presentation, attendees will be able to meet with local providers offering support around topics like healthcare, estate planning, social services, and more. There will also be dedicated time for fun activities and crafts. The Hive Time pilot program will run for six months, at which point organizers will assess participant feedback and determine how best to continue supporting local seniors. Mark your calendar now for Friday, October 2, 2-4 p.m. For more details, watch the September issues of The Nugget or visit www.citizens4community.com/events.

Folks of all ages and stages and ability levels enjoy their hiking, sports, fitness activities, horseback riding... They also get hurt. Therapeutic Associates makes a point of getting patients back in the game as quickly as possible. Being well staffed means patients can get in quickly and get back on the road to recovery. “Generally, we can get people in within 48 hours of referral,” said physical therapist Matt Kirchoff. Patients can also come to Therapeutic Associates directly, and that’s also usually just a couple of days wait. Kirchoff urges people to be proactive. “The sooner we can see people, the easier it is to assess and to treat [an injury],” he said. The knowledge and expertise found at Therapeutic Associates helps restore strength and function when too much fun — or an accident — puts us in the hurt locker. Therapeutic Associates therapists are well versed in the kind of injuries found in active folks. Therapeutic Associates also has a unique partnership with Sisters Athletic Club that lets patients access water therapy, and a step-down program to work with a trainer in the gym to rehab and regain strength. SAC members can also avail themselves of free injury screening.

Tea drinkers know that the drink is soothing, tasty, and can be the focal point of good fellowship and community. There’s also medical evidence that tea drinking may be directly beneficial for health due to antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Garth Tosello of Suttle Tea has built an entire career around tea’s beneficial properties. “It’s slower, smoother, more connecting than any other kind of drink,” he said. But not all tea is the same. Quality varies widely depending on what you get and where it comes from. “Sourcing is critical to drawing out the best benefit,” Tosello said. Suttle Tea focuses first on finding the best ingredients first, then deciding what they’ll make from them. They chose to work with small farmers and small co-ops that are active in their communities around the world — because healthy community connections are a part of wellness, too. Regenerative agricultural practices are important to the process. That focus is apparent in the cup. “The potency is way better,” Tosello said. This is tested, he noted. “It can be a little bit subjective — but not really,” he said. Suttle Tea’s focus is on quality, freshness, potency, cleanness, and taste — all in service of a goal “to bring more health and wellness to our community.”

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The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026 • Partners in Health & Well-Being 19

Teaming up to deliver St. Charles Heath Care’s Sisters clinic has built a cohesive team to deliver healthcare effectively and efficiently to the people of Sisters. Many of those people are on Medicare, and building this team has enabled an initiative to get those Medicare recipients into the Sisters clinic for Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. According to Medicare, “You can get a yearly ‘Wellness’ visit to develop or update your personalized plan to help prevent disease or disability, based on your current health and risk factors. The yearly visit is a conversation-based visit with your doctor or other health care provider to create a prevention plan. It isn’t a routine physical exam.” St. Charles has developed an efficient, team-based means of providing those wellness checks to Sisters’ exceptionally high volume of Medicare patients. “We have two nurses working in the clinic now, which is great,” said Dr. Inger Lied. “They are very knowledgeable and skilled.” The nurses can conduct the wellness visits, where they can: • Take routine measurements (height, weight, and blood pressure)

effective, efficient care

• Give you health advice • Review your medical and family history • Review current prescriptions • Offer to talk with you about creating advance directives (Advance directives are legal documents that record your wishes about future medical treatment, in case you’re ever unable to make decisions about your care). • Talk about screenings, vaccines, and other preventive services you need • Give you an optional “Physical activity and nutrition risk assessment” to help your provider understand your physical activity and nutritional habits and their impact on your health • Perform a cognitive assessment to look for signs of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease • Evaluate your potential risk factors for substance use disorder and refer you for treatment, if needed. If any further testing is needed, the nurses can order them up. “Our nurses can spend an hour with them as opposed to our providers, who have less time,” Dr. Lied noted. With providers’ time

maximized and made as effi“...it’s a team effort. It makes cient as possible, St. Charles’ for a more efficient day-toSisters clinic can often provide established patients with day — and I think our patients same-day access, which is a appreciate that too.” key goal of the practice. Dr. Lied notes that the — Dr. Inger Lied nurses can get a visit started, and a provider can then come in make sure that they are taking to help with whatever issue the their medications correctly — patient has come in to address. especially important for patients “A lot of times, we can get those who who are taking multiple things addressed then and there,” medications. Patients can actuDr. Lied said. ally bring in their medications and Same-day access can often help sort through them with the pharpatients avoid a visit to urgent macist to make sure everything is care or the emergency room, in order. which would require a trip to Bend “Our pharmicist does a lot of or Redmond, since Sisters does diabetes care,” Dr. Lied noted, not have an urgent care facility. including follow-up with patients Dr. Lied notes that the team is and downloading and monitoring extensive — medical assistants, reports from diabetes monitors. front-desk people, lab technicians, “That’s super helpful,” Dr. Lied x-ray technicians. Patients also said. have access to a behavioral health It’s an interactive environspecialist who can help people ment. The team often meets in who have needs around anxiety advance of a patient visit to anticiand mental health or substance pate needs and plan how best to abuse problems. accommodate them. “That’s been a really great ser“When they come to see us, it’s vice for our patients, too,” Dr. Lied a team effort,” Dr. Lied said. “It said. makes for a more efficient dayOn Tuesdays, the clinic hosts a to-day — and I think our patients pharmacist, who can help patients appreciate that too.”

20

Partners in Health & Well-Being • The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026

Yoga studio opens Personalized care Sweat PNW offers more than a workout in Sisters Country for all ages Local health options are expanding with the opening of Twisted Yoga, a new community focused studio located downtown at 141 W. Main Ave., Ste. 201, next to Angeline’s Bakery. While the studio location is brand new, owner Tara Seymour is a veteran of the local fitness scene. Seymour brings 30 years of personal yoga practice and two decades of teaching in Central Oregon to her new business. The studio’s core offering focuses on a warm Vinyasa Flow, a style of yoga that seamlessly connects physical poses into a fluid sequence synchronized with breathing. The studio is also offering a restorative yoga class to aid in embodiment and stress relief. Seymour emphasizes that the benefits extend far past simple physical movement. “Yoga is not just about strength or flexibility” Seymour said. “It enhances the mind-body connection, it promotes self discovery and a sense of presence, in a safe environment.” Inclusivity is central in the studio’s mission. All ages, fitness levels, and body types are welcome. To reduce financial barriers, Seymour offers Wednesday community classes for $12. “You don’t have to know anything about yoga to come,” Seymour added. “It is accessible to everyone, beginners are welcome.” Twisted Yoga & Wellness operates as a collective holistic hub, partnering with onsite health practitioners to offer massage therapy, skin care, hormone therapy, and head spa.

You just don’t feel like yourself. You’re tired, your joints ache, you can’t sleep, you have brain fog, and you’ve gained weight. Alyssa Abbey, PA-C, founder of Precision Skin and Hormone, is here to help. With 20 years experience practicing medicine in Central Oregon, she is now offering her services in Sisters. Whether you’re experiencing perimenopause or menopause symptoms, low testosterone, weight gain, or dermatologic concerns, Alyssa will create an individualized treatment plan addressing your specific health issues. Precision Skin and Hormone offers something different. After seeing patients travel to multiple providers for these services, Alyssa created a practice that allows patients to be seen for multiple health issues in one place. She also helps patients understand peptide therapies. Alyssa can explain how peptides work and determine whether they may be appropriate as part of an individualized treatment plan. Patients seeking weight loss may benefit from GLP-1 peptides when traditional calorie restriction and unsustainable diets haven’t worked. A consultation includes an hour-long visit, laboratory review, and thorough discussion of health history. “Once we have the whole picture, we start on a personal health program,” Alyssa says. “It might be one thing, or it might be several things that will help.”

At Sweat PNW, fitness is more than a workout — it’s a community, a mindset, and a way to feel stronger in every part of life. Welcoming people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels, Sweat PNW creates an encouraging environment where members feel supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their goals. Built around the motto “Breathe. Sweat. Recover.”, every class intentionally connects breath, movement, strength, and recovery. Workouts begin with breathwork, move into cardiovascular and strength training, and finish with guided stretching. In small-group classes, coaches provide individualized attention, adapt movements to each person, and emphasize proper form and body awareness. Workouts blend functional strength and conditioning, Pilates, and bodyweight training to build strength while improving mobility, balance, stabilization, and confidence. The goal isn’t simply to exercise — it’s to help people move better and prepare their bodies for the activities and adventures they love. Sweat PNW also offers personal training, fascial stretch therapy, and specialized clinics for running, pull-ups, perimenopause, skiing, pickleball, and more. Every offering reflects the belief that no two bodies or fitness journeys are the same. At Sweat PNW, members don’t just leave feeling like they completed a workout. They leave feeling stronger, more capable, and ready for whatever comes next.

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141 W. Main Ave., Sisters next to Angeline’s Bakery

See full schedule and sign up at: www.twistedyogawellness.com

SERVICES • H ormone Repll acement • Pe r i m e n o p a u s e C a r e • Low Testosterone • Medical Weight Loss • Aesthetic Injections • D ermatt oll ogy • Pe p t i d e s Telehealth Visits Available Alyssa Abbey, PA-C, MCMS, is a Certified PA who has been practicing medicine in Central Oregon for 20 years. Her passion is providing individualized treatment plans to patients of all ages. You can look and feel your best at any stage of life.

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SWEAT PNW BREATHE • SWEAT STRETCH • Functional range of motion and strength conditioning. Workouts designed to keep you strong in the gym as well as the real world. • Fascial stretch therapy. • Personalized small group and individual personal training.

541.390.8983 www.sweatpnw.com 392 W. Main Ave., Sisters

The Nugget Newspaper • September 2, 2026 • Partners in Health & Well-Being 21

Making back-to-school healthier and easier in Sisters For working parents, the return to school can be both a relief and a challenge. Summer’s unpredictable schedules give way to routines, but those routines often come with packed calendars, school activities, appointments, and the daily scramble to get everyone where they need to be. More than half of parents say balancing work and family can be difficult, according to Pew Research. As families settle into another school year, finding simple ways to protect everyone’s physical and emotional health can make a big difference. For families in Sisters, one resource is close to home. Mosaic Community Health’s Sisters School-Based Health Center, located at 535 N. Reed St. next to Sisters High School, provides pediatric care for children from birth through age 18. Children do not have to attend Sisters schools to receive care. The clinic is open Tuesday through Friday, making it easier for families to fit healthcare into school and work schedules. Sarah Leet, PA-C, a Mosaic pediatric primary care provider in Sisters, is part of the team helping local families keep children healthy throughout the year.

Prepare today for an easier tomorrow Think of preparation as a favor to your future self. Pack backpacks, lay out clothes, and organize work essentials the night before. Prepare lunches while you’re already making dinner, and keep healthy snacks where children can grab them independently. Kids can help, too. Filling water bottles, checking backpacks, and putting shoes by the door builds responsibility while taking a few tasks off parents’ plates. Make sleep a family priority Consistent sleep supports learning, mood, and overall health. As school begins, return to regular bedtimes and wakeup times as quickly as possible. Adults benefit from the same routine. That may mean trading some late-night “me time” for extra sleep and putting phones and other screens away before bed. If worries tend to surface at bedtime, try setting aside 10 or 15 minutes earlier in the evening for everyone to talk about what’s on their mind. Keep preventive care on the calendar Back-to-school season is a good time to make sure annual

well-child visits and vaccinations are current. Mosaic’s school-based health centers offer annual wellchecks that can include vision screenings, mental health screenings, vaccine updates and sports physical forms. They can also help with illnesses and injuries, developmental concerns, and management of chronic health conditions. Having care available on school grounds can be especially helpful for working parents who otherwise might need to take significant time away from work to drive to appointments. HALT before reacting When a parent or child is unusually frustrated, remember the acronym HALT: Are you Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? Sometimes the fastest way to improve a difficult afternoon isn’t pushing through — it’s identifying the unmet need. A snack, rest, conversation, or a little connection can change the tone of the entire evening. Share the load Family responsibilities include more than chores. There’s also the mental work of remembering appointments, permission slips, practices, groceries, and school events. Partners can reduce that

burden by taking full responsibility for certain areas rather than waiting to be assigned individual tasks. Use the resources around you Friends, relatives, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations can all be part of a family’s support system. For Sisters families, convenient local care can be part of that network. The Sisters School-Based Health Center is open Tuesday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; and Thursday and Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Families can call 541-383-3005 to make an appointment. Most importantly, remember that a successful school year doesn’t require a perfect routine. Small steps — better sleep, a little preparation, timely healthcare, and asking for help when you need it — can add up to a healthier, happier year for kids and parents alike. Mosaic Pediatrics and providers like Sarah Leet, PA-C, are here to support Sisters families throughout the school year. Visit MosaicCH.org to learn more. Information provided by Mosaic Community Health.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Commentary...

Another perspective on fish reintroduction By Mark Metzdorff, M. D. Guest Columnist

The August 5 article by Maret Pajutee paints an optimistic picture of the ongoing efforts to restore anadromous fish runs to the Upper Deschutes Basin, by the reintroduction project at the Pelton/Round Butte dam complex. The 2005 relicensing of the dams, which are owned and run by Portland General Electric (PGE) and the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs (CTWS), was the culmination of a decadelong process and was contingent on development of a serious mitigation proposal to replace the lost runs of sockeye, chinook, steelhead, and Pacific lamprey that w e re decim ated whe n the 1960-era fish passage scheme failed completely. The resultant 2005 proposal is a complicated, expensive, hatchery-based, labor-intensive project to provide trap, truck and haul fish passage of juvenile smolts downstream, and of adult fish upstream, around the three dams. A management/monitoring “Fish Committee” (FC) was constituted to operate the project, consisting of members representing dozens of stakeholding organizations including PGE, the CTWS, federal, state, and regional regulators. Also included were representatives of five conservation organizations who collectively had one vote on the FC and who were intended to serve as a significant watchdog in the process. One of those is the Native Fish Society, which I serve as a volunteer and which allowed me to attend many of the FC meetings since 2015. In my view, the picture presented by Ms. Pajutee is overly optimistic. It is relatively straightforward to trap, haul and pass

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adult fish upstream, although there is little evidence that using hatchery fish in this way results in significant spawning and reproduction. In fact, after 15 years of operation (three or four generations of fish) this project has demonstrated only minimal returns to the trapping facility at the lowest of the three dams, of adults that originated from smolts released above the dams, and little spawning upstream of the dams by any of the species “reintroduced.” In 2017, approximately 600 adult hatchery sockeye salmon returned and were passed upstream, giving hope that maybe the project could work. Sockeye returns plummeted the following year and have never come close to the 2017 return since. This year, the project managers are celebrating the past season’s return of more than 600 hatchery steelhead trapped and passed upstream (down from more than 950 the year prior). Many of these fish grew from hatchery smolts that had nothing to do with the project; they were just trapped and passed as if they did. The numbers sound promising but as with the sockeye there is no reason to believe this is a trend that will be repeated. In the absence of dams, it took historical runs of hundreds of thousands of wild fish of each species each year to maintain healthy, harvestable populations that sustained the species and filled the needs of the indigenous people. After 15 years, returns are still hatchery fish and are a tiny fraction of historical numbers: few spring chinook, a few more steelhead, and almost no sockeye. To date there have been no returns of “wild” spring chinook which PGE defines as “naturally produced Upper Deschutes Basin fish captured as smolts

at the selective water withdrawal (SWW) and released into the lower Deschutes River.” A major problem in this reintroduction program is the difficulty of passing progeny downstream. With the current setup, these sixinch smolts must navigate Lake Billy Chinook, each arm of which (Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius) is a seven-plus-mile-long, sluggish, predator-infested lake unlike anything these species evolved to deal with. There are minimal currents to guide the fish, water conditions are widely variable and sometimes toxic, and ample bull trout, cormorants, and other predators pick off many smolts. The SWW tower where smolts are trapped was conceived as a way to generate surface currents by drawing top water from the reservoir to help with smolt passage, but in a study done after construction it was shown that the only meaningful currents generated occurred within a few tens of meters of the facility. The number of smolts trapped and passed has only been a fraction of those released in the upper arms of the reservoir, and usually nowhere near the goals laid out in the licensing documents. One of the concepts in the fish passage plan is the strategy of “adaptive management,” which was included because of the uncertain nature of this never-beforetried project. This allows

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the managers on the FC to try new ideas, SWW operation strategies, hardware, facilities and the like in the interest of improving results. Some of these, such as the nighttime power generation and shift from planting fry to planting smolts, have had some positive effects. Others, not so much. Most are expensive. Over $100 million dollars were spent constructing the infrastructure initially, mostly paid for by PGE ratepayers. Tens of millions more have been spent on habitat restoration upstream, attempting to improve conditions for spawners who have yet to arrive. The placement of difficult-to-maintain guiding nets cost millions of dollars, and there is now a plan to spend $15 million more on a new adult trap. As far as I have seen, annual operating expenses are not readily available or scrutinized in the FC. “Adaptive management” has been an opportunity to try (often expensive) new things, but results have been lacking and the time framework expectation has shifted from “we hope to see results soon” at the beginning, to “restoration like this may take decades.” I became interested in this project because, as one trained in science (I am a retired surgeon), I thought it had potential to address the continuing decline of our anadromous fish runs (I am also a passionate steelhead angler). I have

been impressed that, in my estimation, the project has been done in good faith, with the best available science, and it is guided by the many smart, earnest people involved. There are tremendous amounts of monitoring and reporting requirements built in and these have been met faithfully. Unfortunately the results they disclose have been more than disappointing, and I don’t see much reason for optimism. It is ironic in a year when the project managers and commentators are celebrating so-called success, that for the second time in five years the recreational steelhead fishing season on the Deschutes River has been closed because of poor returns. Hatcheries have been in existence for 150 years and have yet to be the answer to declining anadromous runs. In fact, they probably have had a major role in the decline. The best hatchery is a free-flowing, dam-free river supporting wild fish. All over America (see the Klamath River locally) dams are coming down in the interest of the natural habitat and its dependent species. Someday this may happen on the Deschutes —there are alternatives that can support the needs of stakeholders. I just hope it will not be too late for the wild fish, and that our progeny will once again see wild, native salmon and steelhead in the Metolius, upper Deschutes, and Crooked rivers.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

AUTHORS: Voices of Central Oregon celebrates local writers Continued from page 3

small-town contemporary novel “In a Word, Yes” with bestselling Central Oregon author Melody Carlson, whose newest Christmas novella is “We Wish You a Messy Christmas.” At 6:30 p.m., award-winning nature writer Marina Richie will present “Feathered Forest: Aloft with Birds in Ancient Trees,” a book that entwines the lives of birds with the vertical world of ancient forests. Richie’s presentation will include connections to the Metolius River, western juniper, regional conservation efforts, and practical actions for protecting birds and forests. Sunday afternoon at Paulina Springs Books will feature Magnus Johnson in conversation with The Nugget Editor in Chief Jim Cornelius about Johnson’s novel “The Men We Make.” The book explores how care, support, trauma, and human connection can profoundly change the course of a life. Johnson is a former Green Beret, Bronze Star recipient, and co-founder of Mission 22, a national nonprofit focused on ending veteran suicide. The gathering concludes Sunday at 5 p.m. with a Local Author Showcase and Reception at Paulina Springs Books. The showcase will feature rapid, “speed-datingstyle” book presentations by local authors Julia Huni, Kit Tosello, Janet Best Dart, Matthew James Friday, Mark Smith, Valarie J. Anderson, Kathryn Mattingly, Ken Sansom, and Michael Cooper. Participating authors will

then be available for book signings and conversation during a reception featuring complimentary finger foods and music from local DJ Josh Lewellen. The weekend also offers three hands-on workshops for readers, writers, and creative people of all experience levels. On Saturday morning at Toriizaka Arts, Bend photographer and arts educator Carmina Morgado leads “One Photo, A Thousand Stories,” an experiential sensory-photography workshop that uses observation, experimentation, and conversation to explore photography as a tool for connection, memory, and storytelling; participants should bring a camera or phone and writing materials. Saturday afternoon at Pine Meadow Ranch, Sisters bookbinder and Fold & Gather founder Diana Phillips presents “Introduction to Beginning Hand Bookbinding,” where participants will learn foundational traditional binding techniques and create a handbound single-section book. On Sunday morning, poet and songwriter Beth Wood leads “Poetry of Place Workshop: What Would Mary Oliver Do?” at Pine Meadow Ranch, a generative outdoor writing session inspired by Mary Oliver’s practice of attention, curiosity, and wonder. No poetry experience is necessary. For tickets, workshop registration, and the complete schedule, visit www.sisters fob.org. Sisters Festival of Books connects readers and writers through author events, literary gatherings, workshops, and community programs in Sisters and throughout Central Oregon. The organization celebrates books and storytelling as catalysts for curiosity, conversation, and connection.

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FILM: Screening at Caldera is fundraiser for trails Continued from page 3

support youth from underserved urban and rural communities by awakening the potential of their creative voice. An optional tour of the Caldera Arts Center campus will begin at 5:45 p.m. Screening of the hour-long film will begin at 6:30 p.m.

followed by a Q&A panel with Forest Service personnel. Tickets for the evening are $15 per person and can be purchased by scanning the QR code. If you are unable to attend the event and would like to support Sisters Trails Alliance’s Summertime Fundraiser, donations can be made online at www.sisterstrails.org/donate. “Your generous support will help us build the first major trail system expansion in 15 years, assess and

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improve our trails for adaptive recreation, and keep trails maintained and accessible for everyone!” said STA Executive Director Stephanie Presley.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

AIRSHOW: Annual event draws many from Sisters Continued from page 1

lazy 90 mph to a screaming 300 mph and climbing nearly 3,000 feet above the field. It is proof that at an air show, size has little to do with spectacle. The lineup also included Yuichi Takagi, a pilot with more than 8,000 hours in the air, and musical performer Precious Byrd, who did double duty as a Friday night headliner on the ground. Together, the acts delivered the blend organizers promise every year: precision flying paired with pure spectacle. History buffs had plenty to admire, too. The Erickson Aircraft Collection brought out a B-17 Flying Fortress, a P-51 Mustang, and a FockeWulf Fw 190, offering warbird rides for those wanting a taste of vintage flight. “I’m 87 now and I still remember the first time I saw some of these birds, back at my first air show in the ’50s,” Elmer Donalds recalled wistfully. He drove to Sisters from Salem, picked up his three grandsons – 11, 7, and 5, and spent two days at the show. “Those kids had one heckuva time,” Donalds told The Nugget. “I’m retired Air Force and I’m hoping at least one of these boys gets behind the controls. Heck, it’ll probably be all remote control in a few years.” A P-38 Lightning sat on static display, and an H-60 Black Hawk helicopter gave visitors an up-close look at modern military hardware. For the photographers among the crowd, a new Photo Tour offered a limited number of spots for unusual vantage points around the airfield. What sets the Cascades show apart from a typical afternoon of flying is everything built up around it. Two stages kept live music going Friday and Saturday, and Friday night wrapped up with a fireworks display choreographed to music, following a full day of flying, food, and entertainment. “I’m too scared to look up at these things,” gasped Robyn Horner, who is spending her summer at Black Butte Ranch. “But my kids and husband can’t get enough of it. This is our fourth year now and we meet up with a group of friends. It’s so intense and at the same time, so mellow, if you can make sense of that.” The Les Schwab Car Show, a fixture of the event, drew its own crowd of admirers, while a fly-in welcomed privately owned and unusual aircraft onto the field. Food trucks, beer, wine, and spirits rounded out the ground-level fun, and those wanting to get

airborne themselves could book glider rides or aerobatic flights. Between the static displays, the car rows, and the music stages, there was plenty to hold a family’s attention even during the lulls between flights. The celebration actually started a day early, with a Thursday evening kickoff party at the historic B-17 hangar and an after-party in Madras. Thursday had some haze but Friday and Sunday were crystal blue, perfect for the airborne events. Beneath all the noise and spectacle, the show also serves a quieter purpose. It operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, leaning on volunteers and local civic groups, who use the event to raise money for community programs and scholarships. This year’s event carried the added distinction of being part of America250Oregon, the state commission working to mark the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding in a way that includes the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including Indigenous peoples who have called this land home since time immemorial. Fast jets, old warbirds, live music, and fireworks: For one weekend in Madras, the Airshow of the Cascades proved once again why it remains one of Central Oregon’s most anticipated late-summer traditions.

Roundabout

SISTERS Bill Bartlett Columnist

The Dolly who wasn’t on stage Driving around town the last few days with all the flags at half mast, I’ve been thinking about which Dolly Parton the world will remember. There have been no shortage of tributes to the songwriter, the businesswoman, the woman who turned a guitar and a dream into an empire. That story has been told, and it deserves to be told. But it’s not the one that’s been sitting with me since the news broke. The Dolly I keep coming back to is the one who spent decades doing something almost nobody in her position manages to do. She stayed likable to everybody. Think about that for a second. Here’s a woman

who spent her career in country music, a genre with deep roots in conservative Tennessee, and somehow ended up beloved by audiences who couldn’t agree on much else. Drag queens and preachers. Farmers and pop stars. People who vote about as differently as two people can vote, all singing along to the same songs, all claiming her as their own. That didn’t happen by accident. She built it, one choice at a time. She turned down chances to endorse candidates, even when the pressure to pick a side must have been enormous. When Tennessee wanted to put her face on the state flag, she said no, because she figured there were other folks who deserved that honor more. When she was offered the Presidential Medal of Freedom, not once but twice, she quietly declined both times, and true to form, she never made a political statement out of the decision either way. I don’t think that reflects a woman without convictions. She spoke up plenty, on racial equality, on treating LGBTQ people with dignity, on lifting up women. She just never let those convictions curdle into taking sides against half the country. There’s a difference between having values and turning those values into a weapon against people who see things differently, and

she understood that difference better than almost anyone in public life. Her Imagination Library sent free books to kids regardless of their family’s politics or income. Her million dollars toward vaccine research was framed as help, not as a statement. She wanted her generosity to reach people, not to score points. I think about that as somebody who writes about life in a small town, in a country that seems to find new ways to split itself apart every year. Dolly Parton figured out that you can hold firm opinions, and still refuse to make enemies out of your neighbors. She wanted to be someone who brought people together, not someone who counted heads on her own side. That’s the lesson I’m taking from her this week. Not the rhinestones or the record sales, impressive as they were, but the harder trick underneath it all: staying kind, staying curious about people, and never mistaking your own certainty for a reason to write anybody off. We could all stand to learn that one. And yes, I do have a favorite Dolly Parton song. Her 1983 “Islands In The Stream” duet with Kenny Rogers. Written by Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees, it’s one of the most recognizable countrypop duets ever.

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Commentary...

Get kids ready for back to school in four steps

By Dani Nichols Columnist

The school year is starting, and the marketing industrial complex knows it. It seems that every advertisement, influencer video, or sign you see is for school shoes, uniforms, tech (this mama says no!), and other “necessary” back-to-school items. Here’s four steps for a successful start to the school year. No, it does not require a new pencil case or a smartwatch. • A sense of themselves and their family culture. One of the benefits of summer

WINTER: Super El Niño seems to be locked in — results are not Continued from page 1

So… we all want to know what is going to happen this winter. And the frustrating thing is, while there are some signs, it’s just too soon to tell. Some aspects of the coming winter forecast can be stated with a high level of assurance. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says that there is a greater than 90 percent chance of a very strong El Niño during fall and winter 2026-27. Oregon State Climatologist Larry O’Neill has

is more time as a family, and this is a true staple for any kid headed back to school. Maybe your family eats dim sum or maybe you grill in the backyard every night. Maybe you watch movies or maybe you get sucked into documentaries about African big cats. Maybe you hike or kayak, or head to the pool or lake on hot afternoons. These little family quirks make up a robust and definitive culture and sense of belonging for your children. Celebrate them, and remind your kids that they are wanted members of a unique family unit. Armed with these core

memories, your kids will know that your values, culture, and cohesion matters much more than being “cool” at school. • Sleep. Sorry, but it’s true. Nobody can learn if they’re yawning and foggy, and one of the joys (and pitfalls) of summer is longer days, later nights, and less sleep. That’s fine for lazy lake days, but to prepare for school, get those babies in bed, even the ones who say they aren’t tired. (I’m looking at you, middle schooler of mine.) • Food. Again, this is boring but necessary. My kids have been rolling deep in 10

a.m. pancakes all summer and it’s time to remind their biology of some healthy routines. In a matter of days, it’ll be yogurt first thing in the morning, and a set snack time and lunchtime every day, and dinner and bed on-time, because, say it with me: “It’s a school night!” Set mealtimes and healthy choices will help everyone get ready for the rigors of sports and schoolwork, so set yourself up for success now. • A reminder to use those noggins, and yes, moms and dads, we can do this too! Get off your phone and read a book, and encourage your

young ones to do the same. We think they are playing on the playground, riding bikes or running miniature trucks on our baseboards (just mine?) and not paying attention, but they are. It’s pretty tough for us to convince our kids that book reports and science fairs matter when we’re stuck scrolling, so put it away! Let’s model the type of curiosity and wholeheartedness that we hope this school year brings for our students. With that, happy school year everyone! Enjoy those newly-sharpened-pencil and still-sharp-crayon vibes.

said that the signals indicate that “this will be very likely one of the strongest events, if not the strongest event we’ve ever seen.” Often called a “Super El Niño,” this phenomenon is characterized by exceptionally warm temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, which has distinct impacts on weather patterns. In the Pacific Northwest, El Niños typically lead to warmer, drier winters. An El Niño can shift storm tracks away from the region. However, “Super El Niños” in the past have actually featured heavy snowfalls in the winter. Right now, NOAA is forecasting warmer-than-normal temperatures in Central Oregon — but it is not clear

yet whether we can expect a wetter or drier season. It is possible that more precipitation could fall as rain if winter temperatures are warmer — but other variables could affect that. O’Neill has noted in multiple interviews that Oregon saw very strong El Niño events in 1982-83, 1997-98, and 2015-16. “During those years, we actually got more precipitation than normal, and an average to slightly aboveaverage snow,” he said. So the historical record indicates warmer temperatures, but at least the potential for a decent winter. O’Neill thinks it is pretty certain that it will be warmer than normal — and perhaps much warmer than

normal — due to the historic strength of the El Niño signal this year. “I think that’s definitely in the cards,” he said in an interview with Zach Urness, an outdoors reporter of the Statesman Journal on Facebook. He also thinks there’s “a decent chance that we could actually be quite wet, at least for periods of time during the winter.”

O’Neill said that Oregonians should be alert to the possibilities for flooding if a warm atmospheric event rapidly melts snow. It seems that Sisters can anticipate a warmerthan-usual winter, which might mean rain at times instead of snow in town — but we can hold out hope for decent snowfall in the mountains.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

All charged up…

BOOSTERS: Sheriff’s Office promotes safety for children Continued from page 6

of seat belt or a child not being properly secured in a car seat. Those deaths made up nearly a third of all motor vehicle fatalities in the state. Statewide, 1,918 children were injured in crashes that year, and 12 percent of them were unrestrained. The fix is proven and simple: • Car seats improve infant crash survival by 71 percent. • To d d l e r s u r v i v a l improves by up to 59 percent with proper restraint. • Booster seats cut injury risk by 45 percent for kids ages 4–8. Oregon requires children to ride rear-facing until at least age 2, then in a car seat or booster until age 8 or 4’9” tall — whichever comes first — and until the adult seat belt fits correctly on its own (lap belt low across the hips, shoulder belt across the chest, not the neck). For more information and to download a flyer that outlines how to properly secure child car seats, visit https:// sheriff.deschutes.org.

PHOTO BY BILL BARTLETT

Tesla EV charging station on North Arrowleaf Trail often has vehicles waiting their turn. Drivers favor this station as it is within 500 feet of many services. Depending on the vehicle, full recharging can take from 20 to 45 minutes.

WOLVES: Metolius is now a three-adult group Continued from page 1

By the end of 2025, ODFW documented three adult wolves in the Metolius group. Its 2026 timeline specifically says that reproduction failed during 2025. The intriguing question: Did the new male breed with the female? Probably not, Bott told The Nugget. Or, if he did it appears that no pups survived. “Nothing observed yet

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and I’m pretty pessimistic to be honest. We have had some other wolves, usually individuals, pass through that area,” he said. The three wolves counted at the end of 2025 were all classified as adults, rather than a breeding pair with pups. Thus, the former Metolius pack effectively transitioned from a fivemember family in 2024 to a three-adult group following the male’s death. “The other two offspring from the 2024 litter either

dispersed or died,” Bott explained. “Wolves usually only live two to five years, although they can live as long as 12 years. Their fate is unknown, as many young dispersing wolves don’t succeed in finding a mate and territory of their own.” Gray wolves are unusually good at avoiding close inbreeding, ODFW says. A major reason is dispersal. Young wolves, particularly males, although females also disperse, leave their birth packs and travel considerable

distances before establishing themselves elsewhere. In Oregon, young males disperse an average of roughly 50–60 miles, and females about 40 miles, although movements exceeding 500 miles have been documented. The fact that the group survived and acquired another adult male is encouraging to those interested in the wolf population thriving. It demonstrates the ability of wolves to reconstitute a social group following the loss of a breeder.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:

PHOTO PROVIDED

Captain Doug Myers and Captain Dave Wellington have served the Sisters community as volunteer fire officers for years.

Volunteers honored for service By Michael Zoormajian Correspondent

Two volunteer fire captains at Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District (SCSFD) were recently presented Distinguished Service awards in a ceremony at the Sisters fire hall. Recognizing more than two decades of service to the community of Sisters. Captain Dave Wellington and Captain Doug Myers were nominated by Julie Spor, “In recognition of their substantial contributions to the success of the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District.” Both captains operated primarily out of volunteer-operated Station 703 (Whychus Canyon). The Nugget met with Captain Doug Myers for an interview as he summarized his career and how his journey led him to SCSFD. Myers began his career in firefighting in 1977, when he decided studying for a business degree wasn’t his cup of tea. Starting out as a night dispatcher for Lincoln County, he took EMT classes during the day. To get his foot in the door of a competitive trade, he worked for an ambulance company in Cannon Beach, lasting a year before deciding he needed more sunlight on his face. After a brief stay as a Bend Fire Department Volunteer, Myers ended up in the Willamette Valley, completing an OHSU paramedic class, and subsequently getting a job with Washington County Fire Department. During his time at Washington County Fire Department, he showed a knack for leadership, and as an active member of the Fire Department Union, played a role in the merging of Washington County and other surrounding fire departments to form Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R). At TVF&R, Myers

developed valuable leadership and fire service developmental skills that he would later bring with him to SCSFD following his retirement from TVF&R in 2006. His time using his leadership to develop a renowned wildland firefighter training program, directly connected to his continual development of the volunteer program he oversaw at SCSFD’s station 703. At SCSFD, Myers began as a stand-in deputy chief for a couple of years, moving then into training development. Later down the line he became a station volunteer captain. He had a philosophy around training and retaining volunteers that was centered around supporting them so they could support the fire district. Myers reflected on the Sisters award ceremony, and described it more as a checkpoint for him stepping back from the fire department. It became apparent that a community servant like Myers, isn’t completely hanging his helmet up yet. “I’m not going to be responding to as many calls anymore,” Myers said, as he described his idea of stepping back from a firefighter role to more of an operational role. “But if there’s nobody else at the station and we get a call, I’ll still be the one to respond.” During the recent Akawa Butte fire, Myers, along with two other volunteers, staffed Station 703 long after the area had been evacuated. Recognizing that not all people in the area complied with the evacuation, he and his crew not only patrolled the area for possible fires, but were also prepared to provide emergency medical services to anyone left behind in the evacuation zone. Clearly, nothing will stop Myers from stepping up, when the community needs him.

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

“I hope you keep going forever.” We hear from readers like that on a regular basis, and it’s the most gratifying aspect of our work. Our goal is to keep going forever — and to do that, support from our readers has become vital. It’s no secret that print media is in trouble across the nation. Costs continue to rise, and can’t simply be passed on to advertisers who are already stressed by their own higher costs of doing business. Readership declines as people’s habits change, and in many places, people don’t read at all, to a point where many think we’re entering a ‘post-literate’ society. That’s the bad news. The good news is that Sisters is still home to readers — and writers, too. We know that the community values their newspaper, because you tell us so — and many want to support their newspaper so that it does stay vital for years to come. And we continue to seek to find new ways to provide value for their support. There are now multiple ways that readers can directly support The Nugget that are easy and aren’t expensive but have a big impact: Supporting Contributions: Direct contributions to The Nugget are allocated to support our outstanding stable of freelance reporters, columnists, and photographers. You can make a supporting contribution online at www.nuggetnews.com (hit the “Donate” button); or you can mail a check to P.O. Box 698, Sisters OR 97759; or (best of all) stop by the office at 442 E. Main Ave. We love to talk with our readers. Subscribe to the “Nuggets From A Small Town” Substack: Substack is an online subscription platform for creators. “Nuggets From A Small Town” offers longer-form essays from Editor in Chief Jim Cornelius, for readers who like to engage with thoughtful writing on topics ranging from identity to the power of empathy, what we learn — or don’t — from history. This week’s essay looks at the importance of reading what it might mean to be a “post-literate society.” You can access “Nuggets From A Small Town” at https://jimcornelius609. substack.com. All subscriptions directly support The Nugget Newspaper. Online subscription: The content published on Substack and other subscriber-only content is available with an online subscription to nuggetnews.com. Click the subscribe button to sign up or call the office and we can assist you. Print subscriptions cover only the cost of delivery; the paper continues to be “free.” Directly paying for our content is the best way readers can help us continue to provide it. It’s also vital to shop local and support the businesses that advertise in The Nugget — and provide Sisters with so much of its character. Change is inevitable, and more rapid than ever — but, with your help, we can preserve good things that “make Sisters Sisters.” With your support, we can ensure that The Nugget is there for you each week to read “cover-to cover,” with more content for readers online. And maybe we will just go on forever. Thank you, Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief

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Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Exploring gravitational waves in Sisters LETTERS

Continued from page 4

Dr. Larry Price will highlight, in accessible language, the significance of gravitational waves to scientific understanding of the natural world in a Frontiers in Science lecture in Sisters on Tuesday, September 15. The lecture at The Belfry will explore the immense technological achievement that resulted in their detection. Although Albert Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in 1916, they were not observed until 2015. The observation was made by an experiment called LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory). LIGO consisted of two major sites in the U.S., one of which is located in the Tri-Cities area of Washington state, just hours away from Sisters. Gravitational waves were a new way of observing the universe and a new tool for discovery from the start. With the first observation of gravitational waves, it was discovered that black holes could have masses in a range that had never before been observed. Now, gravitational waves have been used to study Astrophysics for just over a decade and the more than 300 observed collisions include binary black holes, binary neutron stars, and black hole collisions with neutron stars. Most of these observations could not be made with any other technique. As additional gravitational wave observatories are planned deep underground and in space, hope is growing that many more phenomena may be observable. Additional observatories may even allow for viewing of the gravitational waves produced by the big bang itself. Using a lively multimedia presentation, Dr. Price will help us understand the enormity of this scientific advance, which garnered the 2017 Nobel Prize in physics for LIGO’s lead researchers, and the rapid advances that have been made since then. Dr. Price is a physicist specializing in elementary particles. He holds degrees in Physics from Pomona College (BA) and Harvard University (MA and PhD). He is retired from a career at Columbia University and Argonne National Laboratory. At Argonne, he held the rank of senior physicist and was director of the High Energy Physics Division. He has served on multiple national

and international committees for particle physics and related fields, including the High Energy Physics Advisory Panel and the U.S. Federal Advisory Committee for elementary particle physics. Dr. Price’s experimental work encompassed the properties of protons and neutrons, including their substructure, now understood as quarks; search for instability of protons; underground detection of atmospheric neutrinos and neutrino PHOTO PROVIDED oscillations; and physics Dr. Larry Price will speak in Sisters on at multi-TeV colliders, Tuesday, September 15. including the discovery of the Higgs Boson. There is a minimum sugThis event is part of the gested donation of $5 at the Frontiers in Science lec- door to support continued ture series sponsored by the programming. Teachers and Sisters Science Club. Social students are admitted free. hour begins at 6 p.m. with The Belfry is located at 302 light fare, beer, and wine E. Main Ave. in Sisters. For available for purchase. The more information, visit www. lecture begins at 7 p.m. sistersscienceclub.org.

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enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.” Why are we not seeing any current leadership in the Democratic Party overtly and openly standing up for the oath they swore to uphold? They have instead created a new slogan for their party called the “Big Tent.” Among the new voices seeking election in Congress, they are spouting strategies including abolish the Electoral College, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico statehood, open borders, defund ICE, pack the Supreme Court, Medicare for all, free college education, abolish the Senate, regulate climate change, men in woman’s sports, sexual mutilation of children, replace the independent presidency, full voting rights to non-citizens, massive wealth tax, housing a universal right, and defund our military and police. Socialism? Marxism? Communism? What can we learn from the past, coupled with listening to their spoken words? If they gain power, it will be like Biden, Harris, and Fauci failed leadership on steroids. Totally incompetent, inexperienced self-serving, and immoral leadership. What is being rejected from this so-called “Big Tent” is the recognition, commitment, and honor for the 1,351,429 who paid the ultimate price during wars confronting tyrannical enemies ever since the American Revolution. Oaths fulfilled. It’s time all Americans regardless of party stand up for the ones who gave us the very freedoms we continue to enjoy; not the ones of the “Big Tent” who will take them away. Jeff Mackey

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Nugget Poetry Corner Justice By Edie Jones

I drive right by. I turn my head – avoiding his eyes. His sign says “Please be kind.” Why do I allow my mind to dictate not to give? When I have all I need to joyfully live. Love our neighbor is my creed. Doesn’t that mean those in need? Be God’s hands – take action then justice we’ll achieve. Why – why – do I turn my head, forgetting to live as I believe?

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Injustice right beside us. We close our eyes. Ignore. Justice – human freedom. All else we deplore. This right is ours to dispense. Speak up – inaction’s no defense. Share with our neighbors. Make smiles come their way. Walk humbly with my God, my choice for every day. Stay alert to where injustice lies. Still – I allow it, by not looking in his eyes. Send submissions of original poetry to jess@nuggetnews.com for possible inclusion in a future issue of The Nugget. Publication is subject to space availability and discretion of The Nugget Newspaper. All poems copyright the author.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

Outlaws cross-country has new head coach Sam May, a 2021 Sisters High School (SHS) graduate, is taking over the reins of the Outlaws Cross-Country team for the 2026 season. May, who ran crosscountry and track all four years at SHS and went on to run for the Bruins at George Fox University, is excited for the opportunity. “We tried to get Sam last fall to assist, but that didn’t work out, but I am so glad he decided to go for it this year as the head coach after I stepped PHOTO PROVIDED down,” said retired coach Sisters High School alumni Sam May. Charlie Kanzig, who worked as an assistant to the placed seventh at State, while team during May’s years at the young boys team placed SHS. “Sam will bring knowl- fourth at District. Big changes edge and youthful energy to by the OSAA give this seathe team.” son a lot of unknowns. The May got his first shot at Outlaws have been moved to coaching last spring when he a new Special District for the volunteered as the distance third time in five years and coach for the track team, so will compete with Special he is acquainted with some of District 3 that includes teams the runners already. from a huge geographic area “I knew how much I including Brookings, Siuslaw, enjoyed being a mentor and St. Mary’s Medford, and 10 leading my athletes in the other teams. In addition, the spring, and to be able to con- 3A girls teams have been tinue to make an impact for separated from 1A/2A for the them in the fall is something first time. that I’m stoked for,” he said. The District Meet will When asked to describe be held at Lane Community his approach as a head coach, College, so travel will be May said, “I’d say my philos- manageable, according to ophy as a coach is prioritizing May. intentionality in everything As far as the competitive that we do as a team. There outlook for the team goes, is a specific reason we do May is optimistic. everything we do, even down “I think we’re a dark horse to little things like the occa- where we’re at right now. sional scavenger hunts for We have the potential to do easy run days. We’re working some really great things on really hard to nail down the both sides, boys and girls. We little things, because when are a little thin roster wise on we practice intentionally, we the boys side, but the young compete with that same inten- squad (who is led by lone tion and mindset. I also really senior Ben Hayner) has a ton want to make it as fun as pos- of potential as I see it,” he sible for our athletes. Cross said. “With the 14-team speCountry is a hard sell for cial district, there is a ton of most students, especially with variability that might play to dwindling enrollment in co- our favor with such a young curricular sports as a whole. team.” The more that we can make He continued, “The girl’s it fun to come to practice, the side is looking good as well. more we get better as a team.” Having a few more upperAs a first-year coach May classmen than the boys team, feels lucky to have great sup- we have a chance to do some port from a crew of experi- really nice things. We have enced coaches. two seniors (Althea Crabtree “Josh Nordell is my main and Jayden Durtschi) who are assistant. He was our head not only big impacts on the coach during my time at course but also at practice. Sisters and really left a strong They do a really good job positive impact on me and being leaders on the team. is someone I really look up “I don’t really like to pay to as a mentor,” he said. “To attention to polls this early in have him backing me up as the season, let alone at all, but my assistant while I’m fig- our girls were ranked 7th in uring out this coaching thing the preseason OSAA coaches is extremely valuable. Sarah poll. More than anything, it’s Thorsett and Dennis Dempsey nice to know there are some will also be around to help teams that are turning around when they can, which is also and seeing us as a threat.” extremely appreciated.” The team opens the season Last year the girls’ team on Saturday at the Ultimook won the district title and Race held near Tillamook.

29

The Nugget Newspaper Crossword

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30

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

ALL advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. CLASSIFIED RATES COST: $3.50 per line for first insertion, $2.50 per line for each additional insertion to 9th week, $1.50 per line 10th week and beyond (identical ad/consecutive weeks). Also included in The Nugget online classifieds at no additional charge. There is a minimum $5 charge for any classified. First line = approx. 20-25 characters, each additional line = approx. 25-30 characters. Letters, spaces, numbers and punctuation = 1 character. Any ad copy changes will be charged at the first-time insertion rate of $3.50 per line. Standard abbreviations allowed with the approval of The Nugget classified department. NOTE: Legal notices placed in the Public Notice section are charged at the display advertising rate. DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 5 PM preceding Wednesday publication. PLACEMENT & PAYMENT: Office, 442 E. Main Ave. Phone, 541-549-9941 or place online at NuggetNews.com. Payment is due upon placement. Major credit cards accepted with a 3% processing fee. Billing available for continuously run classified ads, after prepayment of first four weeks. CATEGORIES: 101 Real Estate 102 Commercial Rentals 103 Residential Rentals 104 Vacation Rentals 106 Real Estate Wanted 107 Rentals Wanted 200 Business Opportunities 201 For Sale 202 Firewood 203 Recreation Equipment 204 Arts & Antiques 205 Garage & Estate Sales 206 Lost & Found 207 The Holidays 301 Vehicles 302 Recreational Vehicles 401 Horses 402 Livestock 403 Pets 500 Services 501 Computer Services 502 Carpet Upholstery Cleaning 503 Appliance Repair & Refinish 504 Handyman 505 Auto Repair 600 Tree Service & Forestry 601 Construction 602 Plumbing & Electric 603 Excavations & Trucking 604 Heating & Cooling 605 Painting 606 Landscaping & Yard Maint. 607 Irrigation 701 Domestic Services 702 Sewing 703 Child Care 704 Events & Event Services 801 Classes & Training 802 Help Wanted 803 Work Wanted 901 Wanted 902 Personals 999 Public Notice

C L A S S I F I E D S

102 Commercial Rentals

STORAGE WITH BENEFITS • 8 x 20 dry box • Fenced yard, RV & trailers • In-town, gated, 24-7 EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com MINI STORAGE Sisters Rental 331 W. Barclay Drive 541-549-9631 Sizes 5x5 to 15x30 and outdoor RV parking. 7-day access. Computerized security gate. Moving boxes & supplies.

103 Residential Rentals

CASCADE HOME & PROPERTY RENTALS Monthly Rentals throughout Sisters Country. 541-549-0792 Property management for second homes. CascadeHomeRentals.com

202 Firewood DRY SPLIT CORDS $250

CUT OFFS $100 • COMPOST SISTERS FOREST PRODUCTS CUSTOM WINDOW DAVE ELPI – FIREWOOD COVERINGS • SINCE 1976 • Bend Window Works, LLC Fuel Reduction Forestry is offering a 10% discount on Doug Fir – Lodgepole – new window coverings. FREE Hardwood – Juniper – Fir in-home consultation. Same day DRIVE-IN WOOD SALES in-home repair services available. – 18155 Hwy. 126 East – New and repaired blinds make SistersForestProducts.com rentals look better! Contact us at Order Online! 541-410-4509 541-383-2455 or andy@bendblinds.com.

205 Garage & Estate Sales

MULTI-FAMILY SALE Tools, tack, small equipment, pet supplies, water toys, clothing, household items and more. Cash, CCs, Venmo. Sept. 4, 5 & 6, 10am-6pm. 16010 Hwy 126. Happy Trails Estate Sales and online auctions! Selling, Downsizing, or Deaths? Locally owned & operated by... Daiya 541-480-2806 Sharie 541-771-1150

301 Vehicles

2017 VW Tiguan $10,900 Cowboy Court Apartments 2.0 Turbo S 4motion (AWD) 2 bedroom 2 bath. $1,650/month, 78K miles, auto transmission RSD $1,650. 1 year lease. Some Call or Text Jim 541-699-9736 pets considered with add'l $350 RSD per pet. Includes W/S/ HEATED GARAGE Garbage/landscaping. Approx. power, lights, security. $275/mo. 1,000 sq. ft. NO SMOKING. Jack 541-419-2502 154 W Adams Ave. #106 We Buy, Sell, Consign Quality 1st floor unit in front building. Cars, Trucks, SUVs & RVs ~ Vacant 9/30/26. Call Jeff at 541-815-7397 Dishwasher, microwave, washer Sisters Car Connection da#3919 & dryer, deck, garbage disposal, SistersCarConnection.com granite countertops, energyefficient windows, storage, plank 302 Recreational Vehicles flooring throughout, electric heat 2021 Tiffin Open Road Allegro w/air conditioning, off-street 34PA. WAS $120K- NOW parking - one reserved space $100K! 43,300 miles, Ford 7.3 (covered space $20/Month). liter gas engine, new tires, many Contact: 541-754-1213. upgrades. Shown by appointment. Mark 541-668-1524 201 For Sale or Deb 402-496-9579.

KIDS ELECTRIC SCOOTER Razor Pocket Mod Petite - 12V 100w motor, up to 40-min per charge, rated to 110 lbs. Likely a good fit for 6–10 years old. Barely used, garage stored. $140 Call or text 541-977-8494

Ski Boat-20' "Sea Swirl Spyder Sport 202" F.O.B. Sisters $8350. 1988, very good condition. Engine 5.7 Litre, Omc outdrive, 400 hrs., 2 props, hull guard, red/gray color, bimini top, depth finder, radio/cassette, boat covers, ShoreLander trailer. Jack 541-420-0175

401 Horses

ALFALFA TRITICALE ORCHARD GRASS HAY New 2026 crop. Barn stored. Moving. Must Sell: 3-tie bales. $250-$350/ton. Hwy. • Tempur-Pedic adjustable queen 126 & Cline Falls. 541-280-1895 bed • stressless leather rocker • plus much more. Contact 403 Pets donahue2424@live.com Due to owner's medical for a full list and photos. condition, must re-home dog. 5

2000 Dodge Ram 2500 Turbo Diesel 4WD, AT. 140,300 miles. Club cab long bed. One owner. A/C needs replacing. $9250. 541-350-8338. ADVERTISE HERE! Do you offer lessons or workshops for ... YOGA? DRAWING? VIOLIN? Or... ? Let our readers know! $3.50 per line the first week, $2.50 per line for repeats. Online at no extra charge! Deadline is Friday at 5 p.m. nuggetnews.com, 541-549-9941

500 Services

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

yr. old husky/shepherd mix, very affectionate, perfect trail dog, house broken and obedient. Call 541-771-4238. SISTERS WHISKERS Your purr-fect friend is waiting for you at our local nonprofit cat rescue! Apply to adopt at: sisterswhiskers.org I’ve got your cats covered! Sisters-Tumalo-PetSitting.com Julie 541-306-7551 Caring, loving pet care in my home. Daily rates and in town. Cheryl 541-420-7875

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

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

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

4 Brothers Tree Service Sisters' Premier Tree Experts! – TREE REMOVAL & CLEANUP – Native / Non-Native Tree Assessments, Pruning, High-Risk Removals, 24 Hr. Emergency Storm Damage Cleanup, Craning & Stump Grinding, Debris Removal. – FOREST MANAGEMENT – Fire Fuels Reduction - Brush Mowing, Mastication, Tree Thinning, Large & Small Scale Projects! Serving Black Butte Ranch, Camp Sherman & Sisters Area since 2003 ** Free Estimates ** Owner James Hatley & Sons 541-815-2342 4brostrees.com Licensed, Bonded and Insured CCB-215057

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

LOLO TREE WORKS Tree Services: Tree Removal, Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, Emergency Tree Services. ISA Certified Arborist Owner / Operator: Erin Carpenter lolotreeworks.com Call / Text: 503-367-5638 Email: erin@lolotreeworks.com CCB #240912

504 Handyman

601 Construction

502 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

AlpenGlow Handyman Services Small & Large Jobs 20+ Years Experience CCB#180099 Call/Text: 541-728-8607 AlpenGlowHandymanServices. com • Credit Cards Accepted

505 Auto Repair

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

THE NUGGET NEWSPAPER NuggetNews.com 541-549-9941 SPURGE COCHRAN BUILDER, INC. General Contractor Building Distinctive, Handcrafted Custom Homes, Additions, Remodels, Cabin Renovations Since ’74 A “Hands-On” Builder Keeping Your Project on Time & On Budget • CCB #96016 To speak to Spurge personally, call 541-815-0523.

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

Home Hardening Services / Assessments / Ember Defense Retrofits / Vulcan Vent Certified / Gain Defensible Space CCB# 218954 www.cascadiadesignbuildllc.com Call Adam 541-974-2282

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

Earthwood Timber • Recycled fir and pine beams • Mantels and accent timbers • Sawmill/woodshop services EWDevcoLLC@gmail.com

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

C L A S S I F I E D S • Commercial & Light Industrial • Custom homes • Residential Remodels • Tenant Improvements WHY CHOOSE US? • No job too big or small • Driven by quality, skill & craftsmanship • Friendly, neighborly professionalism • Reliable, dedicated & trustful • Licensed, Bonded, Insured Contact us today! Curt: 541-480-7494 Brandon: 541-647-0586 kallbergconstruction.com

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 • barns • outdoor kitchens • pavilions everythingoutdoors@ymail.com Rooted in family, Built with pride

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

• Foundations: All sizes & types • Slabs & Flatwork: SOG's, Driveways, patios & walkways • Custom Finishes: Tailored to Your style and vision. Contact us today! Brandon: 541-647-0586 Jeff: 541-419-7199 kallbergconstruction.com

SWEENEY PLUMBING, INC. “Quality and Reliability” Repairs • Remodeling • New Construction • Water Heaters 541-549-4349 Residential and Commercial Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB #87587

606 Landscaping & Yard Maintenance

Electrical Service & Repair Est. 1947, CCB#54572 Local in Sisters 503-357-2146

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

603 Excavation & Trucking Full Service Excavation

Free On-site Visit & Estimate CASCADE GARAGE DOORS Tewaltandsonsexcavation@gmail .com Factory Trained Technicians 541-549-1472 • CCB #76888 Since 1983 • CCB #44054 541-548-2215 • 541-382-4553 Drainfield • Minor & Major Septic Repair • All Septic Needs/Design & Install General Excavation • Site Preparation • Rock & Stump Removal Pat Burke • Pond & Driveway Construction Residential Construction Services LOCALLY OWNED Preparation Licensed since 2015 CRAFTSMAN BUILT • Building Demolition CCB# 208020 541-668-0883 CCB: 228388 • 541-588-2062 Trucking Arne Pierce- call, text, or email www.sistersfencecompany.com • Deliver Top Soil, Sand, Gravel, arnepierce@gmail.com Boulders, Water Quality is never an accident. 602 Plumbing & Electric • Dump Trucks, Transfer Trucks, Belly • The Whole 9 Yards or 24 Whatever You Want!

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

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

Top Shelf Service. Straightforward Pricing. • Lighting Design • EV Chargers • Expert Troubleshooting Serving Central OR since 2008 Travis Wirth 541-647-9246

— GEORGE’S — SEPTIC SERVICE 541-419-3148

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

Sisters Owned and Operated Serving all of Central Oregon • Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Service Hot tubs/Saunas • Generators Car Chargers • Panel Upgrades Light upgrades 541-588-3088 • CCB #234821

Earthwork, Utilities, Grading, Hardscape, Rock Walls Residential & Commercial CCB #165122 • 541-549-6977 www.BANR.net

604 Heating & Cooling

ACTION AIR Heating & Cooling, LLC Retrofit • New Const • Remodel Consulting, Service & Installs actionairheatingandcooling.com CCB #195556 541-549-6464

Sisters, Oregon's Exclusive HVAC Service Residential & Commercial Heating • Ductless Air Conditioning • Maintenance Installation • Repair 541-588-5667 SistersHeatingAir.com

605 Painting

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Remodels • Generators • Hot tubs/Saunas monteselectric@hotmail.com CCB#200030 • 541-480-9860

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

Interior/Exterior Painting Deck Refinishing Jacob deSmet 503-559-9327 peakperformancepainting1@ gmail.com • CCB#243491

– All You Need Maintenance – Pine needle removal, hauling, snow removal, moss removal, lawn care, weeding, pruning, roofs, gutters, pressure washing. Lic/Bonded/Ins. CCB# 218169 Austin • 541-419-5122 All Landscaping Services Mowing, Thatching, Hauling Call Abel Ortega, 541-815-6740

Alpine Landscape Maintenance An All-Electric Landscape Company. Text/Call Paul 541.485.2837 alpine.landscapes@icloud.com

31

802 Help Wanted

Sisters Habitat for Humanity is hiring a Thrift Store Manager. $65,000/year DOE. Minimum three years retail management experience req. Learn more at www.sistershabitat.org/ employment.

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

803 Work Wanted

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

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

COMPANION CAREGIVER Available for Sisters area. Light housekeeping, errands, appts, and meal prep. 20 years exp. Great references. Registered with DHS. UPDATED PHONE # JODI: 707-337-5047

902 Personals

Do you have a Room or ADU? There are folks needing a place they can afford to rent to get out of the elements. Can you help? Advertise your small rental space here at the Nugget Newspaper. nugget@nuggetnews.com 541-549-9941

999 Public Notice

The Panoramic Access Special Road District will have a board Complete landscape construction, vacancy beginning January 1, fencing, irrigation installation & 2027. Please submit your name address to email: design, pavers/outdoor kitchens, and panoramicroads@gmail.com. All debris cleanups, fertility & water candidates must be registered conservation management, voters in the District, shall have excavation. resided within the District for at CCB #188594 • LCB #9264 least ninety (90) days prior to the www.vohslandscaping.com first of the upcoming year, and 541-515-8462 are at present qualified voters of the State of Oregon. 701 Domestic Services BLAKE & SON – Commercial, Home & Rentals Cleaning WINDOW CLEANING! Lic. & Bonded • 541-549-0897 for puzzle on page 24 I & I Crystal Cleaning, LLC

SUDOKU SOLUTION

Specializing in Commercial, Residential & Vacation Rentals. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. 541-977-1051 For all the lastest from Sisters, Oregon... go online to NuggetNews.com

32

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon

S is t e r s

15275 Windigo Trail

15385 Windigo Trail

16440 Fair Mile Road

18108 Fadjur Lane

16923 Royal Coachman Dr

4 BD | 4.5 BA | 4,448 SF | 2.29 AC

4 BD | 4.5 BA | 4,654 SF | 1.81 AC

6 BD | 5.5 BA | 4,910 SF | 5.37 AC

6 BD | 4 BA | 4,128 SF | 9.24 AC

4 BD | 5 BA | 3,895 SF | 1.18 AC

$2,450,000 MLS#220217038

$1,995,000 MLS#220226511

$1,995,000 MLS#220223800

$1,795,000 MLS#220227300

$1,395,000 MLS#220219628

665 E Coyote Springs Road

1087 N Lavender Lane

14474 Crossroads Loop

927 E Desperado Trail

118 N Cottage Lane

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 2,957 SF | .34 AC

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 1,928 SF | 0.08 AC

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,496 SF | 1.04 AC

2 BD | 2.5 BA | 1,345 SF | 0.08 AC

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 1,743 SF | 0.12 AC

$1,349,000 MLS#220224816

$795,000 MLS#220224381

$789,000 MLS#220220538

$650,000 MLS#220221843

$445,000 MLS#220225766

BLAC K BU T T E R A NCH

13396 Yampa GH 117

71006 Bracken Lane GH 87

70919 Amaranth EM 52

70667 Ponderosa SM 143

13314 Betony GH 37

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,875 SF | 0.6 AC

5 BD | 3 BA | 3,325 SF | 0.43 AC

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 2,879 SF | 1.04 AC

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,911 SF | 0.43 AC

4 BD | 4 BA | 2,358 SF | 0.62 AC

$2,700,000 MLS#220216192

$1,650,000 MLS#220224024

$1,495,000 MLS#220226027

$1,395,000 MLS#220220596

$1,350,000 MLS#220227790

13699 Speedwell GM 90

13577 Star Flower GM 271

70833 Goosefoot GH 303

13737 Speedwell GM 87

13579 Sundew SM 34

4 BD | 3.5 BA | 2,939 SF | 0.48 AC

3 BD | 2.5 BA | 2,056 SF | 0.7 AC

3 BD | 3 BA | 2,039 SF | 0.3 AC

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,460 SF | 0.4 AC

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,824 SF | 0.41 AC

$1,295,000 MLS#220205515

$995,000 MLS#220226190

$995,000 MLS#220221728

$885,000 MLS#220224563

$795,000 MLS#220193171

13668 Owls Clover RH 3

70686 Steeple Bush SM 152

13584 Nine Bark RC 7

70785 Goldenrod SM 14

13719 Partridge Foot RR 81

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,613 SF | 0.27 AC

3 BD | 1.5 BA | 1,152 SF | 0.47 AC

3 BD | 1 BA | 961 SF | 0.1 AC

vacant lot | 0.5 AC

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,978 SF | 24.5% share

$775,000 MLS#220214827

$695,000 MLS#220225698

$545,000 MLS#220216267

$485,000 MLS#220222011

$295,000 MLS#220217625

B EN D

Ca m p S h e r m a n

Lodge restau, cabins, rant

Lake Creek Lodge

13375 SW FS Road, Cabin 26

13375 SW FS Road, Cabin 10

13375 SW FS Road, Cabin 3

1028 SE Black Ridge Place

COMMERCIAL | 40.43 AC

3 BD | 3 BA | 1,140 SF | 1/4 interest

3 BD | 2 BA | 866 SF | 1/4 interest

3 BD | 2 BA | 978 SF | 1/4 interest

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,560 SF | 0.24 AC

$10,000,000 MLS#220224690

$249,000 MLS#220218395

$159,900 MLS#220222476

$157,900 MLS#220218115

$495,000 MLS#220226917

Phil Arends Principal Broker

Thomas Arends Broker

phil@arendsrealtygroup.com

thomas@arendsrealtygroup.com

541.420.9997

PONDEROSA PROPERTIES

541.285.1535

LLC

541-549-2002 | 178 S. Elm St., Ste. 102/103, Sisters, OR 97759

ArendsRealtyGroup.com LICENSED IN THE STATE OF OREGON