Week of November 27, 2024
Starting Sunday, December 1, four winter range closures take effect across the Deschutes National Forest to provide critical habitat for deer and elk. The four annual wildlife winter range closure areas include Cabin/Silver Lake, Metolius Winter Range, Opine Travel Management Area, and Tumalo Winter Range. Motorized vehicles (including snowmobiles and electric bicycles) are prohibited in the closure areas to protect deer and elk during the winter. The winter wildlife closures will last through March 31, 2025. Winter range... Full story
Snow started piling up above 4,500 feet two weeks ago, to the point where Mt. Bachelor opened to pass holders 12 days ahead of its November 29 plan. There were about 200 skiers Saturday and Sunday at Ski Hoodoo even though the resort is not yet open. With a solid two feet of snow, skiers - primarily from the Valley - trekked the 30-40 minutes to the summit and skied down. Around the bend at Ray Benson Sno-Park, dozens of sledders blasted off in their snowmobiles careful to... Full story
Following an October 6 “community conversation” about houselessness in the Sisters area, hosted by a coalition of local organizations, the City of Sisters has released a 32-page summary report on community concerns, ideas, and questions that came out of the meeting. The event served as a platform for learning and input-gathering providing an opportunity for participants to hear from 11 community groups who are each providing services and assistance to the unhoused in... Full story
Sisters Transportation and RideShare (STARS) announced its ride sponsorship “drive” is launching on Giving Tuesday, December 3, and will run through December 31. STARS is a volunteer ride share program that provides Sisters Country residents with free non-emergency medical rides to Sisters, Bend, and Redmond. STARS “riders” are unable to drive themselves or afford private ride services, and many say, without the nonprofit, they would need to cancel their medical visits. According to Rennie Morrell, STARS... Full story
Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who cultivated a closer relationship with some labor unions than most Republicans and narrowly lost her bid for a second term in Congress earlier this month, is President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the U.S. Labor Department. Trump on Friday praised Chavez-DeRemer, the daughter of a Teamster who sought endorsements from unions in her unsuccessful reelection campaign, for building relationships with business and labor. “I look forward to working with her to create... Full story
Four state agencies are teaming up this holiday season to support the “Rethink the Drink” winter advertising campaign that encourages people in Oregon to celebrate safely by understanding the health and social harms of excessive alcohol use. Officials at the Oregon Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission (ADPC), Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC), Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) hope the tools provided by the campaign help people reduce the pressure to drink alcohol during... Full story
For the first time since being established in 2017, Sisters Cold Weather Shelter (SCWS) organization has a consolidated space for their office and supplies. Wellhouse Church has rented SCWS the building they used for their food bank, with the shelter taking over operation of the food program that is open every Thursday. Last week 220 customers received 850 lbs. of Thanksgiving meals. Shelter Executive Director Sharlene Weed said, “Our current space was the one we used a couple of years ago as a shelter and we had no... Full story
As we enter the annual season of giving, you may be thinking of charities you wish to support and wondering how to gain tax benefits from your gifts. In the past you wrote a check to a charity and then deducted the amount of the gift, within limits, from your taxes. A few years ago, as part of tax law changes, the standard deduction was raised significantly, so fewer people were able to itemize deductions. Consequently, there was less financial incentive to make charitable gifts. This didn’t stop people from making them... Full story
The Deschutes Land Trust (DLT) has announced its first cohort of Emerging Conservationists of Central Oregon (ECCO). The first ECCO cohort includes 31 individuals from throughout Central Oregon who bring a wide variety of skills, expertise, and passion for conservation to the Land Trust. "The Land Trust is thrilled to work with this amazing group of people to generate excitement, knowledge, and interest in conservation here in Central Oregon. Together we are building the... Full story
President-elect Donald Trump ordered congressional Republicans on Wednesday, November 20, to block a broadly popular bill to protect press freedoms, likely ending any chance of the U.S. Senate clearing the legislation. The measure would limit federal law enforcement surveillance of journalists and the government’s ability to force disclosure of journalists’ sources, codifying regulations the Department of Justice has put in place under President Joe Biden. The House Judiciary Committee unanimously approved it last year... Full story
The City of Sisters will host an open house on its Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) Expansion process on Monday, December 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the new Sisters Elementary School. City staff is inviting the public to come learn more about the future of the community and make their voices heard. All are invited to the open house: Sisters residents, as well as those living in Sisters Country and beyond. Attendees will learn more about progress made so far on the UGB expansion project — including on how much land is needed to... Full story
Folks in Sisters turned out on a snowy evening on Sunday to take stock of the well-being of youth in the community. The broad conclusion of the Citizens4Community (C4C) forum “Are the Kids Alright?” held at Sisters Elementary School was that Sisters has a lot of assets that support youth well-being — but there are still challenges that the community should work to address. Panelists were Lindsey Overstreet of Mosaic Community Health’s school-based health clinic in... Full story
It was 6 a.m. last Saturday at Level 5 CrossFit when a group of 33 men formed a loose circle around Ryan Hudson, owner. It was an uncanny hour for such a workout, if not for the cause it represented. "Blood, sweat, and tears for those who have served our country, that's why we're here," he says. "Every rep represents a veteran fallen to suicide. Every minute stands for them." This particular workout was the first of its kind. Consisting of 22 movements, 22 reps each, over a... Full story
The public can now purchase Christmas tree permits for the 2024 season at Forest Service offices, online, and from local vendors around Central Oregon for use on the Deschutes and Ochoco national forests. Purchase online at Recreation.gov — a $5 per permit with an additional $2.50 reservation fee. Permits purchased online must be printed to be valid. In-person permits are available at Forest Service offices and several local vendors ( www.bit.ly/3fsheXA ). Individual permits are $5 and households can purchase a maximum of... Full story
Folks in Sisters woke to a beautiful sunrise on Monday morning - and an inch or so of snow on the ground. A storm dropped far more than that along the Cascade crest, an earlier-than-usual arrival of winter conditions. While the snow is pretty, and inculcates a spirit of the winter holidays, it does complicate travel, and locals and visitors are reminded to adapt to winter driving conditions as a mix of rain and snow showers are forecast to persist for the next week and more.... Full story
The Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District invites qualified voters of the fire district interested in serving on the Civil Service Commission to submit letters of interest and applications to the Board of Directors of the Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District. Civil Service for Firefighters is covered by Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 242.702-242.824. The Civil Service Commission is made up of three citizens of the district who are not members of the board or employees of the district. They are... Full story
When the community asks “Are the Kids Alright?” at a Citizens4Community (C4C) forum next Sunday, we might want to ask also whether their parents are alright. Long-time school counselor Charlie Kanzig, who will be one of the panelists at the forum set for Sunday, November 17, 4 p.m., at the new Sisters Elementary School, reports that he’s seeing a different kind of stress in parents than he did 10 years ago: economic stress; political stress; and “the feeling that... Full story
Jennifer Letz was re-elected to a seat on the Sisters City Council, to be joined by Sarah McDougall and Cheryl Pellerin. Letz and McDougall each won a four-year term, while Pellerin will serve a two-year term in the wake of the November 5 election. “It’s just an honor to serve this community in this important role,” Pellerin said. “I really appreciate the community support. My decision to run was driven by the desire to serve this special community.” Pellerin cited housing, livability, growth, and wildfire... Full story
After a bruising campaign, Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp decisively won election as Deschutes County Sheriff. Vander Kamp garnered 59.32 percent of the vote while his opponent Captain William Bailey recorded 40.06 percent. “It was a pretty loud message — enough is enough,” Vander Kamp told The Nugget. The Sheriff-elect told The Nugget that his immediate priorities revolve around community engagement, a comprehensive budget review, enhancing traffic safety initiatives, and... Full story
The agency that keeps our highways operating is facing a structural revenue crisis. This is due to three main causes, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT): Oregonians are driving increasingly fuel-efficient vehicles, and switching to electric vehicles (EV) at a high rate. With increased fuel efficiency and more EVs, Oregon sees lower tax revenues and less money available to maintain the transportation system. Inflation has made maintaining the... Full story
With the approach of winter upon Sisters Country, preparations are underway at the City to prepare for allowing emergency shelter to those who are living unhoused. At the Wednesday, November 20, Sisters City Council meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, the Council will be asked to approve a resolution creating an emergency declaration for the period of November 21, 2024 to March 15, 2025, to allow for getting people out of the cold. The resolution will help avoid the... Full story
CLACKAMAS — Surrounded by a hastily assembled group of campaign volunteers, Democrat Janelle Bynum declared victory in Oregon’s closest congressional race. The Democratic state representative is the first Black congresswoman from a state that banned Black people from living within its boundaries when it joined the union. That history was on Bynum’s mind as she gave brief remarks at her campaign headquarters Friday afternoon, November 8. “It’s not lost on me that I am one generation removed from segregation. It’s... Full story
BURNS - Oregon State University researchers have received a $1 million grant to study the impact of adding seaweed to the diets of beef cattle as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recent research has found that feeding seaweed can reduce methane emissions from cattle, most of which originates from enteric fermentation that is characteristic of their digestive process. Oregon State will investigate a specific type of seaweed – Pacific dulse, a species grown... Full story
Sisters High School filled the school auditorium with joyful sounds in their annual Fall Concert held Tuesday, November 19. Showcasing band, choir, and Americana music, the concert blended the multiple SHS music departments into a singular cohesive and enjoyable performance. "My favorite part was the vibe and the energy between instrumental and vocal programs," SHS Band Director Kayla Golka said. "We have really awesome synthesis and community, this was the least stressful... Full story
The new Sisters Elementary School - constructed close to Sisters middle and high schools - is helping to build connections between students. Earlier this month Sisters High School IEE (Interdisciplinary Environmental Expedition) students worked with SES kindergarten and firtst graders on plant identification. After the teachers of these classes realized that they were covering similar content, they decided to collaborate. Junior age students at SHS led hands-on activities... Full story
Three months into the first school year in the new Sisters Elementary School (SES) building, its leaders are over the moon. The old grounds, they say, were "bursting at the seams." Teachers and students "felt stifled." Today, "everything is bigger and better," said Principal Joan Warburg. "Better than expected." Assistant Principal of Student Success Jana Giles is very pleased with how students and teachers have been getting into their new groove. "Teachers have been really... Full story
Central Electric Cooperative (CEC) is accepting applications for its 2025 Washington, D.C., Youth Tour program. CEC will select two high school juniors to visit the nation’s capital for one week in June. Participants will join student leaders from electric cooperatives nationwide to learn about cooperatives’ contributions to rural America, leadership, the political process, and interact with elected officials. The trip includes seeing the nation’s capital and other sites, including the Arlington National Cemetery, the... Full story
A small, mighty crew of parents is preparing an unforgettable experience for Sisters High School graduating seniors — and they are seeking community help to make it happen. The Foundation is seeking tax-deductible contributions to ensure that graduation festivities are free and accessible to all graduating seniors. The fundraising drive is timed around “Giving Tuesday” on December 3. The estimated cost for this year’s festivities is $25,000. Funds raised will allow the Foundation to cover a variety of expenses,... Full story
Oregon school districts are projected to pay $670 million more to the state’s public employee pension program over the next two years, potentially wiping out all increases to school funding proposed by Gov. Tina Kotek. The increased tab, more than 10 percent for some districts, follows lagging returns in investments of the Public Employees Retirement system (PERS) and could affect teaching and learning in some schools. “Next year’s sharp jumps in PERS rates will take significant money away from classrooms without... Full story
The new Outlaw Media class at Sisters High School is introducing a wide array of skills to SHS students. Many of these skills are founded on hands-on interactions, which led to their recent field trip to the Allen Hall School of Journalism and the University of Oregon. A small group of eight students, including chaperones Susan Seaney and Matt Hilgers, were led around campus by Mikala Selman, a current SOJC student and junior ambassador. The group met with Professors Kelli... Full story
The presence of wolves is shaped by the landscapes they inhabit and the humans who share those spaces. For millennia, wolves and humans have maintained a complex and intertwined relationship showcasing striking similarities. Both species exhibit unique behavioral traits that are rare in the animal kingdom. While most people recognize that wolves live in groups known as packs, many may not realize that these packs function as family units. Much like humans, wolves are among the few species on the planet that live in family... Full story
Seed to Table received combined donations of $8,500 from 100 Women Who Care-Sisters members this month. At their November 21 meeting, the women heard three informative and inspiring presentations before voting for their choice to receive their individual $100 donations. Seed to Table's founder and executive director Audrey Tehan talked about their mission to increase wellness in the Central Oregon community through providing equitable access to locally grown farm fresh... Full story
For the third year in a row, Partners In Care has been recognized with a prestigious five-star rating for Exceptional Hospice and Home Health Care Programs. The five-star ratings are from the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Hospice Survey, plus the Home Health team achieved a five-star rating from the Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HHCAHPS) Home Health Survey from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The ratings reflect Partners In Care’s... Full story
Bend author and retired criminal attorney Lori Hellis will present her new true crime book, "Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell: A Story of Murderous Faith" at Paulina Springs Books on Thursday, December 5, at 6:30 p.m. In this gripping work of true crime, Hellis takes readers inside the notorious Lori Vallow case and the devastating "doomsday murders." A blonde beauty queen, missing children, six suspicious deaths, and the twisted Mormon doomsday... Full story
Brad Tisdel will be leaving his current role as full-time creative director with SFF Presents (SFFP) at the end of the year. Tisdel has formed a company that will be hired to coordinate talent booking for both of the group's annual music festivals, the Sisters Folk Festival and Big Ponderoo. Tisdel has been instrumental in the success of SFFP (formerly SFF, Inc.) since he joined the organization in its early stages in 2000. His dedication and visionary leadership were... Full story
The Sisters Arts Association's Fourth Friday Artwalk is in a holiday mood this Friday. In between shopping, baking, and giving thanks, take a few moments to stroll through the galleries and see what's happening this month. Galleries are open during the day and the featured artists' receptions generally take place between 4 and 7 p.m. Wildflower Studio has prints, cards, stickers, and Christmas card packets by Megan Nielsen, a local artist with a design and illustration background. Pick up new art supplies, ready-made... Full story
"The Hell of Helene, a Cascadia fundraiser for Appalachia" will be held at The Belfry on Friday, November 22, at 7 p.m. The night of music, featuring Skillethead, Quattlebaum, Danger Gently, and The Color Study, will support Hurricane Helene relief with a lineup of local musicians, some of which have direct ties to Western North Carolina. Skillethead works in bluegrass traditions of driving fiddle tunes, layered harmonies, and single mics, while weaving in inspiration and... Full story
The Brigham Young University International Folk Dance Ensemble visited Sisters High School to host an interactive intensive and evening show for fellow dancers and community members earlier this month. The group toured through Oregon and Idaho during the first two weeks of November, showcasing their wide variety of cultural dances in numerous cities across the two states, including the Dalles, Corvallis, Eugene, and Sisters. The group of 28 dancers had been rehearsing for... Full story
The choice for the next Central Oregon Community read, A Novel Idea, will be revealed on December 7 at the Downtown Bend Library. Join fellow book lovers as the library reveals the captivating story that will inspire readers across the community; a selection for young readers will also be announced. The anticipation is palpable as readers gather to be the first to know this year’s featured books. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the unveiling takes place upstairs at 6:30 p.m., featuring literary trivia, small bites by Bleu Bite... Full story
Makin’ it Local will feature three Central and Eastern Oregon artists in art, wine, and food pairing receptions scheduled through the month of November. Artist parings include Raku pottery from Terri Axness / Muddy Creek Studio (Haines), newly released fine art prints by Susan Luckey Higdon (Bend) and Kathy Deggendorfer (Sisters). All pairings and receptions feature Oregon wines curated by Mark Clemens of Friends and Vine, (@friends_and_vine Sisters, Oregon) and feature Alexana Vineyard (Pinot Noir), Resonance Vineyard... Full story
SFF Presents will host a concert with the Andrew Marlin Stringband on Thursday, February 13, at The Belfry. The acclaimed multi-instrumentalist and Watchhouse frontman stops in Sisters as part of a larger tour promoting his latest solo record, "Phthalo Blue." Tickets go on sale Friday, November 15, at 10 a.m., at https://aftontickets.com/AndrewMarlin. The solo album features all-original music recorded around one mic at The Tractor Shed in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. Along... Full story
What comes to mind when you hear the word “flannel?” Perhaps it’s your favorite plaid shirt, your trusty yardwork outfit, a rugged lumberjack, or even a classic grunge band. A new, original High Desert Museum exhibition, “Blood, Sweat & Flannel,” explores what flannel represents. Opened November 2, and running through June 15, 2025, this unique experience invites visitors to explore the stories behind flannel — a fabric that goes beyond clothing to reflect the history of work and culture in the High Desert... Full story
The Outlaws basketball squad is working hard to prepare for the tough competition they’ll face in the Mountain Valley Conference this season. They return five seniors to the squad, and bring on four newcomers to round out the roster, and hope to earn a berth to the state playoffs. Seniors Landen Scott, Kale Gardner, Garrett Sager, Oliver Bernhardt, and Levi Szesze all are back for their final year. Scott was a first-team, all-league Mountain Valley selection last season. Last year he played in all 23 games, and averaged... Full story
Roadside “brushing” operations started Friday, November 22, along Forest Service Road (FSR) 11 on the Sisters Ranger District. Depending on weather conditions, brushing operations will occur along FSR 12 and FRS 14 over the next few months. Roadside brushing is conducted as a part of road maintenance to prevent vegetation from encroaching into the roadway and improve visibility along the travel corridor so drivers can see other vehicles, pedestrians, and wildlife. Roadside brushing decreases wildfire risk by reducing... Full story
Runners and walkers are invited to don their ugliest sweaters and other holiday garb for the fourth annual Ugly Sweater Run/Walk. The 5 kilometer event, set for Saturday, December 7 at 10 a.m. will be staged from the Fir Street Park in downtown Sisters. Race director Kelly Bither, founder of RunSistersRun, sponsors theme-oriented runs during the year and sees the events as an opportunity to get people together for some fun while also raising funds for local non-profits. This... Full story
Five Outlaws soccer players earned all-league selection, including senior Micah Dachtler, who was a first team pick. Senior Danny Benson earned second team all league and seniors Cooper Merrill, Andrew Islas, and juniors Nick Palmer and Joseph Derksen were honorable mention. Dachtler was a co-captain for the Outlaws and primarily played at center back. He scored one goal from a set piece during league. Of Dachtler, Coach Jeff Husmann said, “Micah truly personifies the kind of player and person we hope to develop. He is... Full story
The Outlaws had 12 players earn all-league honors this season, including seniors Kayl Mock, Hudson Beckwith, Landen Scott, Kolbi Cotner, Kale Gardner, and Dawson Roberson. Beckwith was named first-team running back, defensive back, and first-team returner. He had 23 carries for 378 yards, four touchdowns rushing and also six receptions for 231 yards and three touchdowns receiving. Coach Gary Thorson said, “Hudson was recognized as the top returner in the league on special teams. He had a dream season and was one of the... Full story
Outlaw Basketball (OBB), founded by former longtime Sisters High School Varsity Coach Rand Runco, and operated under Sisters Parks & Recreation District (SPRD), is now out on its own. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit is led by Justin Durham, president, and Ryan Moffat, chairman, with Coach Runco and Varsity Head Basketball Coach Chad Rush on board. "The four of us founded this new, formalized Outlaw Basketball as its own entity," said Durham. "We're excited to work with kids in the... Full story
The Lady Outlaws soccer squad had five of their players selected to all-league teams, including seniors Shae Wyland and Ella Davis, who earn first-team honors. Wyland was one of the Outlaws’ captains, and was a standout player in the midfield and on defense. She tallied three assists during league play. “Shae was a vital piece to this team in both defensive and midfield positions,” said Coach Makena Zorza. “She was a great leader, was very coachable, and stepped into any position asked of her. Shae was consistently... Full story
The Deschutes National Forest plans to close Forest Service Road 16, which provides access to Three Creek Lake, and Forest Service Road 370 to wheeled motor vehicle traffic on Wednesday, November 13. Road 370 provides access to Broken Top. The roads are closed to provide for public safety, minimize resource damage, and preserve the snowpack as these routes transition to winter recreation. Forest managers said Forest Service roads across the Deschutes National Forest are not plowed or maintained for winter driving access and... Full story
The Lady Outlaws fought hard and played well against the No. 5 ranked Banks Braves, but fell 1-0 in round two of the 3A/2A/1A soccer state championships that were held Wednesday, November 6, at Hillsboro Stadium. The Braves did an outstanding job throughout the contest, made good give-and-go passes, and repeatedly took shots on goal. They scored their one goal in the last five minutes of the first half. “The Outlaws held their own and gave the Braves a high energy game that I don’t think they were expecting,” said... Full story
The Lady Outlaws had five volleyball players selected to all-league teams, including Kathryn Scholl and Holly Davis, who were first-team, all-league picks. Scholl finished league with 11.9 kills (first on the team), 1.7 aces, 7.4 digs, and 1.2 blocks per match this season. Coach Josh Kreunen said, “Kathryn is the ultimate team player, willing to play any position on the court to help the team. With the ability to score anywhere along the net and at the service line, Kathryn finished the season as the leading scorer for... Full story
Sisters made the long trek to Lincoln City on Friday, November 8, and took on the Taft Tigers. The Outlaws battled back from a big first half deficit to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, but were unable to keep the Tigers out of the endzone, and ultimately suffered a heart-wrenching 34-27 loss in the final minutes of the contest. The Outlaws had a difficult time at the start of the contest and were unable to stop the Taft passing attack, and quickly found themselves down 0-21 just two minutes into the second quarter.... Full story
The Outlaws' cross country teams wrapped up the 2024 season with the OSAA State Championships on Saturday, November 9, at Lane Community College in Eugene. The girls' team, which squeaked into the meet with a third place finish at District October 30, produced mixed results at State. Brooke Duey led the team with a 17th-place finish with a time of 19:58, her best time at the state meet in her three visits. "The field of fast individuals in the meet was deeper than ever and... Full story
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a person linked to a previously reported outbreak affecting birds at a commercial poultry operation in Clackamas County. Health officials are not providing additional details about the individual, naming the operation, and will not be providing specific location information to protect privacy. There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission and the risk to the public is low. “Clackamas County Public Health... Full story
Whether you're new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, managing muscle soreness effectively is key to maintaining a consistent workout routine. Here are some tips for optimizing your post-workout care at home. 1. Stay hydrated. When you exercise, you lose fluids through sweat. Replenishing this water loss is crucial for muscle and joint function and removing toxins from the body. Staying hydrated reduces muscle cramping and spasms. Proper hydration also ensures your joints are well lubricated, which prevents stiffness and... Full story
Letters to the Editor should be 300 words or less. The deadline for submission is Monday at 10 a.m. for publication in that week's Nugget. Please submit your letter by emailing to Jim Cornelius at editor@nuggetnews.com with "letter to the editor" in the subject... Full story
Letter to Harris To the Editor: In “An open letter to Kamala Harris” published last week in The Nugget, its author states: “The election on November 5, 2024, has demonstrated that there is a large portion of America, measured both geographically and by headcount, who do not share the opinion that the right to abortion should be federally protected throughout a pregnancy for any and all reasons.” The election, of course, demonstrates no such thing. And the current Vice President needn’t rely on the election results... Full story
For most of us, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends for feast and fellowship — maybe with some football thrown in. We’re all kind of vaguely aware of the historical context — Pilgrims and Indians got together to make the First Thanksgiving and all that. Pondering the history behind Thanksgiving isn’t necessary to the holiday — but it can deepen the experience. As Native American Heritage Month winds down, it’s an opportunity to try to see the... Full story
• Staff and fellow councilors recognized Susan Cobb's service at her last meeting as a City Councilor last week. For her part, Cobb expressed her appreciation to the public and to her colleagues: "I thank the public who voted to put me here to serve as it has been a great honor. Thank you to those who encouraged my positions. Thank you to council members for their unfailing civility. I thank all the staff members from whom I had the fortune to receive their smiling help... Full story
It is fashionable to suggest that violence doesn’t solve problems, although the history of the world suggests otherwise. It might be better to say that violence doesn’t always solve problems, because it was only violence that cemented the American Revolution, it was violent resistance that carved out what little indigenous Americans have left, it was violence that finally solved Hitler, and at least for a little while it allowed schoolgirls in Kabul to learn how to read... Full story
Thanks, y’all, for the feedback on my last column, a light ‘n’ snarky one about women’s mid-life changes. People seemed especially pleased that I encouraged men to read. Keep reading, folks of all genders! I mentioned an upcoming talk at the library. I went, despite the grim weather, and enjoyed open, nonjudgmental conversation with local ladies of various ages. At the podium stood doctors Erin LeGrand and Sarah Hellmann, both OB/GYNs with St. Charles Medical Group.... Full story
As we approach the day set aside to give thanks and show gratitude, have we given much thought to how this important skill is taught and passed on? There’s so much our kids enjoy without a second thought of how it has come to be. Even when they politely say, “thank you,” does it really register what it would be like to be without their many blessings? When it comes to teaching skills most adults recognize the importance of role modeling to exemplify the characteristic we want to pass on. How are we doing? On... Full story
In aisle 1 at Safeway there are nearly 40 different types of toothpaste and at least two life lessons to be found. When I was in my early 20s, living in Alaska over 2,000 miles away from my parents, I called them. I was in love, again, and said to my dad, “This could be the one.” He stated, “Don’t get caught up on toothpaste issues.” “What are toothpaste issues?” I asked. First, there are several ways to discharge toothpaste from the tube. Just grab and squeeze, push from the bottom, rolling as you go, or... Full story
Appreciation To the Editor: Hats off to the Sisters School District for its Veterans Appreciation Celebration held at both the elementary and high schools on November 12. The assemblage of students from all three schools, including the intermediate school, and the program of patriotic/service songs, as well as recognition of both Sisters area veterans and Sisters HS graduates who have gone into military service after graduation, was absolutely heartwarming. Appreciation goes both ways. We veterans received appreciation for... Full story
I grew up in a newspaper family. Both my parents worked for the San Jose Mercury News. My dad was the art director. My mom sold advertising. My family knew the publishers at the time. Politics and current events were an every night discussion at the dinner table. My mom was a stickler for dinner time – always at the dining room table with proper manners and each of us four girls were expected to participate in the adult conversation my parents were having. Politics was a frequent topic. We discussed the president, the... Full story
There are events that occur over the course of one’s life that have the potential to cause depression — going through a painful divorce, adjusting to widowhood, living with chronic illness, becoming a caregiver for an ill parent or life partner, losing your job and struggling to find another. Sometimes depression takes root, not as a result of an external event but from biological changes within one’s brain. But we are so used to looking within our life circumstances for the cause of our depressed mood that we may... Full story
Suppose you’re in your late 30s. Or well into your 40s. Or, heaven help you, mid-50s. Let us also suppose you have a uterus and ovaries, and you’re still menstruating. Even if you don’t have that apparatus, or you’re freaked out by the word “menstruating,” keep reading. What follows may help you navigate a world that’s composed of over 50 percent women.* There’s this wild, destabilizing thing that happens around mid-life. Our hormones go absolutely wild.... Full story
Dear Madam Vice President, How could the election have turned out like this? Many people have expressed surprise and dismay at the results of the 2024 election, particularly in our county, Deschutes, where 53 percent of the population voted for you and in our state, Oregon, where over 55 percent of the population voted for you. I have been reflecting on my own personal view of this election and I would like to share it with you because I do not think the thoughts are mine... Full story
Law enforcement and immigrants To the Editor: It’s been a tough week for some of us here in Sisters in regards to the outcome of the 2024 Presidential Election. My sympathies and understanding of the disappointment we share together. There’s a long list of potential, less than satisfying winds of change headed our way and I’ll deal with them in my own way when they materialize, but one issue in particular caught my eye and I feel it needs to be addressed and brought into the communities awareness immediately: the... Full story
The day after the election, an acquaintance, who voted differently than I did, patted me on the back and said, “Don’t worry, it’s going to be all right.” I know from talking with family members, the messages we are fed through algorithms, social media, and targeted marketing are not the same messages. Each of us lives in a feed-back-loop world based on past programing, programing that tells us to be afraid. I would like to think I can see a little outside my box, so… Dear America, I hope you chose right. I... Full story
With so many of us newbies, me included, I'm always delighted when I learn a tidbit of Sisters history. Of course, The Nugget is chock full of much of what you might be curious about. You may not know how much of a historical library The Nugget is. Heck, many of you may not even know that The Nugget has an online edition - nuggetnews.com - where in addition to getting the latest news about Sisters Country you can go to that amazing little magnifying glass icon to the right,... Full story
I did the math. It’s probably not the math you’re thinking of. Not how many BTU’s (British Thermal Units) from a certain species of wood you could get. Also not a comparison of the cost of a cord of wood versus the electricity you would use for heating on any given winter. The upside is a free wood cutting permit to harvest up to eight cords of wood for personal use. It didn’t used to be that way. My math doesn’t even consider the cost of a saw, trailer, vehicle to tow a couple tons of wood, or the fuel, oil,... Full story
• Sisters Habitat for Humanity thanks everyone who attended the incredible Jim-Isaac Chua Concert on October 25. The concert was indeed a “feast for the ears.” We are very grateful to our sponsors who made the event possible: TDS Telecommunications, Central Oregon Daily News, Mid Oregon Credit Union, Sisters Senior Living, Merrill O’Sullivan Stewart Law, Roth Home, Sisters Coffee Company, BUILD LLC, Rad Dyer of Ponderosa Properties, Sisters Ace Hardware, Bedouin, Sisters Veterinary Clinic, and The Nugget. And a... Full story
Ruby-crowned Kinglets (Regulus calendula) were first described in 1766 by Linnaeus, and its generic name is latin for little king. They are very common now, flitting and hanging in the air gleaning small insects from trees and bushes. They live in mixed woods, isolated trees in meadows, coniferous and deciduous forests, mountain-shrub habitat, and floodplain forests of oak, pine, spruce, or aspen. These tiny birds nest high in trees, and so prefer older, taller, and denser... Full story
Earlier this summer, I stopped by The Fly Fisher’s Place, and asked the employees what drew people to the fly-fishing game and what pushed them away. Shop employee Gavin Ferguson, of Camp Sherman, said, “Fly fishing appeals to people with a scientific outlook.” He went over to a shelf and took down a book. “Here’s a hatch guide filled with information on flies and nymphs and where you expect to find them in the river. Do you pay attention to things, or do you just stumble through life?” Jeff Perin, the store... Full story
It has been a long week. I provide care for patients on all sides of the political fence and some who are hoping to avoid the fence altogether. Inevitably, mental health and policy are intimately connected. Patient opinions are frequently shared and I, trying my best to remain neutral, listen. We are all entitled to our own definition of safety and progress. From what I gather, votes on all sides were cast mostly on positions of frustration and fear — not hate. For some,... Full story
I looked out the window and there was a smallish black-faced critter just peeking over the slight hill in our backyard. For just a moment it looked like a black bear cub, causing me to immediately look for the mother. Then I realized it was Ernie, one of the new Scottie pups. It is funny what the mind can do. The cool fall weather and leaves blowing around had changed the world of bright skies and summer flowers so much that my mind went to darkness. I saw a bear cub rather... Full story
The Sisters community is gearing up for a public discussion on Sunday, November 17, “Are the Kids Alright?” What about the parents? I’ve read loads of articles about raising kids. Most of them in recent years question or scoff at hands-on, close, attached parenting styles. Why do the kids—particularly middle-class and upward, often white kids—not jump on their bicycles and spend all day running around like back in the olden days? When we didn’t wear helmets or... Full story
Greetings friends, from Cefalù, Sicily. In honor of the idea that life is short but wide, my husband Rod and I are spending a couple months going to Italian school and exploring. At first glance, it may not seem that Sisters and a town in Sicily have much in common. But there are some striking similarities. Cefalù on the north coast of the island, is a tourist town just like Sisters. It has only 14,000 permanent residents, but millions come each year to enjoy the white... Full story
Do you sense it? That all-pervasive fear that seems to be gripping too many. We wonder, ‘Is this the eye of the hurricane? Or has the storm passed?’ We hold our breath, wondering what’s next. It’s true, there are lots of things to fear and we want to protect our people, ourselves. But fear is sneaky and creative. And when we give it free rein, it multiplies: Republicans fear the Democrats; Democrats fear the Republicans. We fear a difference of opinion. Why? We fear running out of toilet paper. Just stop. Breathe.... Full story
It is with heavy hearts that we announce Brad passed away at OHSU hospital in Portland on November 13 at the age of 66, following a prolonged battle with heart disease. He was surrounded by family upon his passing. Brad was born on March 7,1958, at Klamath Valley Hospital in Klamath Falls, Oregon. He graduated from Lost River High School in Merrill, Oregon, in 1976. His nickname while growing up was Buddy because there wasn't a person who met Brad with his easy going... Full story
Timothy Killefer passed away peacefully on October 17, 2024 at his home in Sisters. He was 69. Tim chose his birthday to use medical aid in dying (MAID), completing his circle of life. Radiation therapy had arrested his cancer decades ago but left a legacy of atrophied muscles and nearly unbearable pain that attacked with a vengeance in 2021. There was no cure, and Tim turned to the MAID program to guide his family through the inevitable ending of his life. He lived a full... Full story
Dr. Irving "Irv" Weston was born on his family farm in Gibbon, NE, and passed away peacefully on November 2, in Bend, at the age of 93. Irv attended Nebraska Wesleyan, received his medical degree from the University of Nebraska and served as a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force. He practiced family medicine in Lincoln, Nebraska, for three decades and continued to practice medicine for several years in Phoenix, Arizona. Irv was an avid ultra-runner and long-distance... Full story
David Porter Van Ness, Jr., of San Diego, California, passed away June 29, 2024, after a short illness. He is survived by his sister Rosalie M. Van Ness-Hanford of Sisters, his daughters Eva King of San Diego, California, and Samantha Van Ness of Dubai, and his son Samuel David Van Ness of San Diego, California. David was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on February 16, 1950. He was raised in Carpinteria, California. David lived his life enjoying surfing, family, welding, and... Full story
This is the season when we remind ourselves of all we have to be thankful for: the natural beauty that surrounds us; the bonds of a strong community; friends and family who bring us joy. We are also fortunate to live in a community of creative makers, who provide food, gifts, and experiences that offer real meaning and lasting value. Meet them in these... Full story
It can be stressful and difficult to think about Christmas morning being just around the corner, since there may be only one or two paychecks until the big day. There are many ways to enjoy the holidays without putting yourself in a deep hole that will take months to dig out of. Start off by making a list of the family and friends you want to share the spirit of Christmas with. When you’re making the list, you’ll be thinking about why these people are on your list and what they mean to you — you can use those thoughts... Full story
Volunteers in the greater Sisters area are once again celebrating the holiday season with several activities during the month of December. The main fire station holiday lights display is back this year. Shift Captain Gary Lovegren rebuilt the displays so the entire community can enjoy them again. The station lights will be turned on after the Sisters Christmas Parade on Saturday, and will be available for drive-by enjoyment throughout the month of December. The light display is accompanied by music each evening from parade... Full story
One of my first jobs out of college was as a fitness coach and lifestyle expert at the Santa Barbara YMCA. My boss asked me to create a display about weight loss and mental wellness during the holidays. The two facts that stuck with me even 16 years later are: The average American gains 0.8 to 2 pounds during the holiday season that they never get rid of, and 38 percent of people say their stress rates increase during the holidays. I would like to tell you up front that this article is not about weight loss. I don’t think... Full story
Google "deer caught in Christmas lights" and you will get not hundreds, but thousands of articles, photos, and social media threads discussing the phenomenon. Elk are not immune to the problem either, although deer seem to be the most vulnerable. Given that we share Sisters Country so freely with thousands of mule deer, it has no doubt occurred here and readers will probably let us know. It sounds humorous upon first reading and images and memes can be highly entertaining -... Full story
