Habitat dedicates two new homes in Sisters

The cold wind blowing on Sunday afternoon didn't stop a sturdy crowd of well-wishers from turning up to the most recent Habitat for Humanity home dedications for the Spain and Maxwell families, in Hammond Place on East Cascade Avenue.

Toni Landis, the president of Sisters Habitat board of directors, began the celebration with welcoming words and asked Lynn Jones to say the opening prayer for the Spains. Jones sang the prayer and many others joined in. Family Services Manager Marie Clasen read a poem called "From the House," sweet and wise words of welcome and thanks to the families and those who helped create the homes.

Darleene Snider is the construction manager for the Sisters chapter and she had a long list to thank, but condensed it in deference to the chilly air.

"We can't buy siding or nails without the help of the ReStore and the Thrift Store and their helpers. It's a group effort," she said.

She also acknowledged the support of local Sisters businesses, including Hoyt's Hardware and Building Supply and Sisters Ace Hardware, and the large donations from Valspar (interior and exterior paint) and Whirlpool (appliances). The efforts of the Sisters High School construction class, which built the walls of the house, were noted as well.

A local quilter, Sue Cox, made a beautiful quilt for each family. The presentations garnered many appreciative comments from supporters about the beauty and design of the quilts.

Neighbors Tracy Streeter-Fotoff and Tammy and Pete Henninger welcomed the families to the neighborhood.

"We're so thankful to Habitat for giving us such good neighbors," said Streeter-Fotoff.

The Spains and Maxwells, the 56th and 57th Sisters Habitat families, each have strong support from friends, family and Habitat volunteers.

David Spain and his children, Marie (17) and Brock (14), have lived in Sisters for many years. Brock actually initiated the application process for his father after deciding it was time he had a room of his own. Family partners for the Spains were Bob Lawton and Eloise Barry. Barry complimented the family on their strong work ethic and commitment to doing much of the finish work inside.

After Pastor Jim Wysong gave the blessing and the family cut the ribbons across the door to the cheers of the crowd, the group shuffled a few steps to the left to the dedication of the Maxwell home.

Father Jude Onogbosele blessed the house for Josh and Kristina Maxwell. Family partners Carol and Kevin Neary and Judy Osborne presented the traditional Bible and quilt to the family. Kristina had a few gifts of her own to bestow; her offering to the construction crew of a first-aid kit containing duct tape, super glue, bandages and whiskey, among other things, drew a loud guffaw from the crowd.

Everyone was glad to come inside to tour the homes, partake of some cake, and offer personal congratulations to the families.