Camp Sherman fights Cabin Fever

Camp Sherman residents line up for dinner at a Cabin Fever Potluck. photo by Conrad Weiler

January's snow created some genuine cabin fever --and produceda large turnout for Camp Sherman's first Cabin Fever potluck dinner of the New Year on Saturday, January 24.

Meeting at the historic Community Hall, friends, neighbors and guests basked in friendly conversations and the warmth of the large fireplace during the social hour.

Dinner supplied a large variety of tasty foods including salads, pizza, meat loaf, stuffed cream puffs, potato dishes, appetizers and other goodies. Cakes, pies and cookies filled the dessert counter.

After dinner, master of ceremonies Dave Blann took over and had the happy crowd of about 100 sing a round of "Happy Birthday" for five-year old Katy Wheeler, daughter of local firefighters Denise and Dave Wheeler.

Tay Robertson, the new Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Chief, was introduced to the local community. Robertson has been on the job for the last month and a half and presently lives at the Camp Sherman fire hall until he finds permanent housing.

"I want this to be a fire safe community," Robertson told his large audience. "This includes better coordination, good customer service and improving fire safety."

He urged local citizens to evaluate their home fire defenses and take necessary measures to improve fire perimeter safety around their home.

Chief Robertson introduced four firefighters at the dinner and mentioned that there are presently nine volunteer fire fighters in Camp Sherman. He held the door open for more volunteers for the local community.

"There will be a test of the Metolius Meadows water system in March to see what is needed for this area," said Robertson. About 115 homes are served by this water system in the Metolius Meadows residential area.

Locals Lee Farm and John Sheldahl were the big winners in the beef raffle. Each won a half-side of beef in the event raising money for the Deschutes Chapter of the American Red Cross. The successful raffle took in over $2,000.

Beef for the raffle was donated by Rhonda and Gary Sneva, owners of the Suttle Lake Resort and Restaurant.

Local Red Cross leader Bobbie Bourne was at the dinner and received rousing applause from a thankful group. Bourne had been very visible and comforting for local residents each day during the summer fire evacuations.

"She is truly a member of the Camp Sherman family and loved by all," said local resident Martha Cathcart.

The next potluck is on Saturday, February 28.