Letters, letters, letters

To the Editor:

This letter is dedicated to Vivian Staender whose memory lives on at Wildhaven.

Driving down Stevens Canyon Road these last few weeks, my fiancé and I were delighted to see a pair of Mallard ducks swimming in the pond that sits in the heart of the marshland nearby. We talked of the small ducklings that would soon make their appearance and were pleased by the thought.

Many nights we could hear the magnificent concertos sung by the frogs that inhabit the same marsh. By day, we would often times stop or drive by slowly expecting to spot a deer or coyote taking a much needed drink of water.

On Saturday evening, May 30, we were awakened by the sounds of engines and voices. Into the wee hours of the next morning they continued.

The next day, on our way into town, we were saddened to see the remnants of the previous nights activities. Parts of the beautiful pond had become a mudhole and there were numerous tire tracks running from one side of the bank to the other.

We thought of the ducks and wondered if they would have to relocate because their incubating eggs had been crushed. We thought of the many frogs that had been caught unaware under the raging tires. Plant life once standing high, now hugged the ground cowering amidst the trauma. And last, but not least, the lone, abandoned vehicle which had succumbed to the clutches of the thick, deep mud.

All of this destruction for one night of "fun?"

I offer to those of you that were responsible for such disregard of the earth and her children an alternative: the empowerment and joy of watching the ducks, listening to the frogs, sitting with the stars and feeling the wind, instead of destroying our earth and those living on it.

Leslyn Gatlin

To the Editor:

On May 29, 1998 the Flex School held its first graduation.

I know these young adults have had their problems but they rose above and took responsibility and fought for their diplomas. It was not good enough for the Sisters School District, but it was good enough for the State of Oregon.

I feel these young adults need a pat on the back, because they worked really hard to achieve their goals.

I would like to thank Bill Reed for donating the classroom they used; Paul Patton the teacher; Marci McGregor the aide who helped these young adults get their high school education; and Mary Arvidson who fought to let the students walk with the Sisters High School graduation class on Sunday May 31.

Maybe next year the Flex students can walk with their friends at Sisters High School in a cap and gown, and have one big graduation. Since it is for the young people of the community and their accomplishment.

Sincerely

The Puckett family

To the Editor:

Francis Quarles said over 300 years ago: "No man is born unto himself alone."

We would like to say how these words have proven true for us most recently. After just moving to Sisters and then to lose most all of our material things, it would have been easy to begin to feel like we were alone.

But that could never happen. The overwhelming support and friendship that was shown to us by so many people, people we did not even know, speaks so well of Sisters that our words pale into insignificance.

We struggle with finding the words to express our appreciation, and even though we know that it isn' t possible to express it adequately, we must try.

We have been helped by so many people, thank you hardly seems adequate. And yet, we must say to one and all for your generous gifts and hospitality: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Many of you have proved to be just as Proverbs 17:17 describes; "A true companion is loving all the time, and is a brother that is born for when there is distress."

To our many new friends and neighbors, we want you to know that your compassion, gifts, and genuine concern do not go unnoticed. On the contrary, you have our love, our respect, and our sincere and heartfelt gratitude

Dan and Kelly McVey

Editor's note: The McVey family's home burned in a fire on Tuesday, May 12.An account remains open for donations at US Bank.

To the Editor:

The American Legion Post 85 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8138 of Sisters wish to thank the volunteer members of the community for making the Memorial Day ceremony on May 25 a memorable event in honor of our war heroes.

Captain Norm Scott gave a most inspirational speech, concluding with a stirring tribute to the American flag.

We wish to thank our local clergymen, Father Tom Faucher and the Reverend Harold Gott for leading the opening and closing prayers. Big thanks to Ron Bliven for the speaker system, to Tom Salgado for his professional camera work and to Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Anderson for use of their land to park cars.

Your adjutant personally escorted musicians Jody Henderson and Zak Enoch into the cemetery grounds just in the nick of time. Their bugle and drum rolls provided just the right solemnity to the event. Many thanks.

Our appreciation to Sergeant Waggoner and Corporal Gregg Marcum of G Troop 1/82 Calvary in Redmond for the rifle salute which added a note of formality to the ceremony. Giving up as much time as they do coming from Redmond makes us appreciate how much other military people have given up.

Thanks to Sisters Community Church for use of the chairs and to Sisters Florist for use of the tripods which supported the wreaths.

Last but not least, our thanks to the members of the auxiliary of the VFW here in Sisters who set up flags at the various grave sites.

Signed,

Jack Berry, Legion Post Adjutant

To the Editor:

I would like to thank the members of Sisters Garden Club who came out to help plant our annuals and spiffy up the Log Cabin garden spot.

And, also, thanks to Sandy Koch for freshly baked cookies and Seasons Cafe for stopping by with soft drinks about the time we were ready to drop from thirst.

Thanks also to Elaine Clark for refreshments and ice punch and water on our last work day.

It is through the efforts of dedicated members that we maintain the four garden spots in Sisters for all to enjoy. It takes group effort to keep them weed-free and looking good.

We also appreciate the town businesses that come forward offering soft drinks for the crews on work days. If folks would like to give the work crews your support in the future you may call either Judy Johnson at 549-9538 or Lorena Bliven at 389-9554 for further information.

Thanks again!

Lorena Bliven

To the Editor:

As the Head Start School year comes to a close, the staff reflects back on this awesome year. We realize that the job we do wouldn't even be possible if it weren't for the collaboration we have with many folks in the Sisters Community. It is time for a hearty thank you to:

Steve Swisher and the Sisters School District for a great facility at the old Cloverdale School.

Dennis and Steve of the Transportation Dept. for busing our children from town out to Cloverdale. Many children would have never made it to school without this service.

Chris and Margaret of the Cloverdale Preschool who are understanding, flexible and caring people that are a joy to share a site with.

The Kiwanis Readers: Jim McWilliams who would bike out to Cloverdale from Tollgate, even in a hail storm, to read to the children. Katie Powers who would bring in her aging felines for the children to love for a little while. The wonderful story teller Charlie; one never knew what he would come up with next. Bob Wood who made stilts for the children.

Melissa Ward and the Sisters Bakery, for graciously hosting l 7 preschoolers in their little establishment during a field trip to town.

Caroline from the Depot Deli for making great lunches for us every day. Dr. Everson and Dr. Fan for doing health and dental screenings on the children.

Tom Salgado who organized field trips and kept us in line.

Most of all to the parents of the children in the program. Their support was unyielding and volunteer hours went far above our expectations.

We had a fun year and look forward to the year of 1998-99. As advocates for children and families in our community we feel very fortunate to have such support. We encourage everyone in the community to give a little of themselves to any child. You never know when you can make a difference in someone's life.

Thanks again,

Marie Clasen - Family Service Worker

Lorna Hickerson - Teacher

Jill Rowe - Assistant Teacher

Sisters Head Start