www.ourtownlive.com

Historic preservation: Grant to aid repair of former blacksmith shop

By James Day

The 1905 blacksmith shop in Mt. Angel

Efforts to repair and restore the historic blacksmith shop in Mount Angel have received a shot in the arm.

Oregon Heritage, a division of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded the project a “Preserving Oregon” grant of $2,149.

The money will be used as part of an $8,000 effort to do repairs and work to preserve the structural integrity of the building, which dates to 1905.

Donations of money, labor and materials will help make up the difference as well as sales of T-shirts during Oktoberfest in September.  Read more... (379 words, 1 image, estimated 1:31 mins reading time)

‘Return to Beauty’ showcases new jewelry and paintings

Lunaria Gallery presents a new show, “Return to Beauty, Jewels and Blooms,” by two Lunaria artists, jeweler Chelsea Goin and painter Diane Trevett. 

Goin is showing her jewelry in fun summer colors. Diane Trevett is showing oil paintings of flower portraits. Flowers will be nestled within a color field of expressive brushwork. Her approach to painting reveals an emotional and spiritual response to her subject.

The show opens on First Friday, Aug. 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Lunaria at 113 N. Water St., Silverton. The show will continue through Aug. 29.   Read more... (156 words, estimated 37 secs reading time)

John Rossi awarded Gold Sparky Award from Fire Marshal

John Rossi (left) accepting the Gold Sparky Award from Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple, accompanied by Mt. Angel Fire Chief, Jim Trierweiler

The Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal has announced the 2021 Gold Sparky Award, which honors a fire service member for contributions to fire prevention and fire safety.

This year’s Gold Sparky was awarded to Firefighter John Rossi, a Public Information Officer with Mt. Angel Fire for his work in elevating the community and the region’s fire prevention and preparedness efforts.  Read more... (182 words, 1 image, estimated 44 secs reading time)

Cotton’s rescue: Silverton neighborhood livened up with animal antics

By Melissa Wagoner

Nicole Serrano with Cotton

A hungry Cotton gets a much needed meal and a drink after his rescue from Elsie Brown’s horse barn.

When 22-year-old Nicole Serrano moved to Silverton with her parents and brother she never could have imagined the immediate notoriety she would receive thanks to the family’s group of miscreant pets. 

“The first day we were here all the dogs escaped,” Serrano  said – whose four dogs took advantage of the temporary lack of fencing around the Serranos’ new property. 

Fortunately, the family was able to round them up in short order. Then Chuck got loose.   Read more... (1349 words, 2 images, estimated 5:24 mins reading time)

Inked adventures: Graphic novelist Jonathan Case explores issues

By Melissa Wagoner

Jonathan Case

Jonathan Case is the author and artist behind books including The New Deal from Dark Horse Comics

The comic books Jonathan Case creates are not run-of-the-mill comics. 

“It’s less about what other people have done in the past and more about what can I do with it to reach people in the world,” Case said of the inspiration that led him to create a host of graphic novels including Dear Creature, his first published book; The New Deal, a nominee for the Reuben, Harvey, and Oregon Book awards for best graphic album; and Green River Killer, for which he received an Eisner Award.  Read more... (787 words, 2 images, estimated 3:09 mins reading time)

City of Silverton: Insights from City Manager’s first 90 days

City of Silverton: Skate Park improvements proposed

City of Silverton: City staff prepares budget for 2021-22 fiscal cycle

City of Silverton: Silverton constable added to fallen officers memorial

City of Silverton: Design process for Civic Center proceeds

City of Silverton: Tips for fire and water safety this summer

City of Silverton: Mayors Corner

Downtown fresh: New ‘Kitchen’ offers quick lunch options

By Melissa Wagoner

Employee, Milui Smith, and owner, Holly Bell at Curbside Kitchen

When asked to describe the kind of cuisine offered by the newly opened The Curbside Kitchen – a restaurant offering “quick bites to go,” in downtown Silverton – owner Holly Bell uses the words “fresh” and “clean.”

Located in one of the smallest storefronts in Silverton, there is little space available for freezers and pantries, which means almost everything is made to order. 

“We have a lot of gluten-free options too,” Bell said. She understands the importance of offering allergy-free selections, owing to her own gluten allergy and her husband’s lactose intolerance. “Any sandwich you can have over brown rice and dairy-free as well.”  Read more... (343 words, 1 image, estimated 1:22 mins reading time)

Future First Citizen: Petrik honored at live community awards

By Brenna Wiegand

Whether playing jazz, concert music or marching in the band; on the soccer field or running cross country, Charlie Petrik always gravitates toward positions of leadership.

For this and other reasons, Petrik was recently named this year’s Silverton Future First Citizen.

“Every year, selecting a candidate for this recognition seems to get harder and harder, and this year was no exception,” Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer said. “In a field of amazing finalists, Charlie’s passion and commitment to the needs of others, fostered by his parents and practiced over his life so far, was inspiring.”  Read more... (619 words, estimated 2:29 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Jamie Kincaid (July 23, 1963 – May 22, 2021)

Jamie Kincaid was born in Pendleton, Oregon to Ralph E. Kincaid, Sr. and Patti Kincaid.

He lived his first 11 years in Ione, Oregon. In 1974 the family moved to Silverton, Oregon where Jamie continued to live until his passing. He attended Silverton area schools and graduated from Silverton High School in 1982.

In his younger years, Jamie worked many years at Redman Homes in Silverton where he met his wife, Heidi, and was gradually promoted to a supervisory position. For the past 26 years he was the production manager at Palm Harbor Homes in Millersburg, Oregon.  Read more... (307 words, estimated 1:14 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Sharon Stalnaker Slama (April 10, 1943 – July 2, 2021)

Sharon Stalnaker Slama, (formerly Sharon Kay Stalnaker), of Mount Angel, Oregon passed away on July 2, 2021 in Coos Bay, Oregon.

She was born April 10, 1943 in West Virginia, to Benjamin and Freda Stalnaker. Her siblings were Jimmy Eugene and Bertha Ann. 

Sharon was known for her love of people, travel, and beauty of all forms. Her greatest loves were family, friends, and the Oregon Coast. 

Sharon was a hard worker with a long career in bookkeeping and accounting for several successful businesses. She retired early to care for family members who needed her and did so with every ounce of her being.   Read more... (220 words, 1 image, estimated 53 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: James F. Schiedler (Sept. 15, 1936 – June 26, 2021)

James F. Schiedler, 84, of Scotts Mills, died on June 26, 2021, in Mount Angel. He was born to Frank Schiedler and Theresa (Daniel) Schiedler on Sept. 15, 1936, on the family farm at Scotts Mills.

After graduating high school, he joined the U.S Air Force in 1955 and later transferred to the U.S Army as an aircraft engine mechanic. He served two tours in Vietnam and retired from the military in 1975 as a staff sergeant. After his time in the military, he returned home to the family farm and started a second career at the cannery in Woodburn, where he worked for another 20 years as an electrician’s helper.  Read more... (177 words, estimated 42 secs reading time)

Swimming champs: Silverton boys win post-season meet

The Silverton High swim team turned in a series of sterling performances June 26 at an end-of-the-season meet at Osborn Aquatic Center in Corvallis.

Five teams participated, West Salem, Crescent Valley, Corvallis, Central and the Foxes. Silverton ran away with the boys team title, scoring 393 points to 227 for runner-up Crescent Valley. Silverton’s girls finished third behind West Salem and Crescent Valley.

“I don’t even know where to begin,” coach Lucky Rogers told Our Town. “80 percent of our swims were (personal bests) and most of them were substantial. We really had a great meet.”  Read more... (815 words, 1 image, estimated 3:16 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Living obviously – Taking a stand when wrongs need to be addressed

Imagine this. 97 degrees in Silverton, scorching, more humidity than you are accustomed to. You are playing with your little guy, age 13 months. Cute as a bug. Suddenly, it dawns on you that there is a cool reservoir barely two miles out of town, just waiting for you. Excited. You get there, ready to hit the water and cool down.   Read more... (712 words, 1 image, estimated 2:51 mins reading time)

Houses to build: Habitat for Humanity sets goal of 18 houses in three years

By Melissa Wagoner

The crew worked on the house wrap, windows and doors at the Silverton construction site on April, 7, 2021.

Trusses are delivered to the Silverton construction site on March 16, 2021.

In a typical year the North Willamette Valley Habitat for Humanity builds one or perhaps two houses. 

“We’ve always been a onesie-twosie organization,” Kari Johnson, executive director since 2019, confirmed. “But that’s one of the things they said when they brought me on is that they wanted to grow.”  Read more... (977 words, 2 images, estimated 3:54 mins reading time)

Infinite realms: Silver Falls Library reopens with exciting summer planned

By Melissa Wagoner

Christy Davis and Cate Tennyson preparing for the Used Book Sale

The smiles are as numerous as the books on the shelves at the Silver Falls Library – which opened its doors to the public for the first time in 15 months on June 8. 

“We’ve been open now for a half hour and so many happy people are coming in to see us…” Director Christy Davis wrote in an email that first day. “It’s a happy day here!”

As well as reopening, with slightly restricted hours for the time being, the library has also kicked off its annual Summer Reading Program themed, “Reading Colors Your World.”  Read more... (873 words, 1 image, estimated 3:30 mins reading time)

Free-for-all: City-wide declutter event planned for July

By Melissa Wagoner

Karen Garst is starting a movement; one she’s hoping will catch on city-wide – Give Away Saturday. 

“Decluttering is always a good idea,” Garst said of the impetus for the idea, which was to purge her own excess items during the pandemic.

“We were doing one drawer at a time,” she said of the method she and her husband Ron used to keep from getting overwhelmed. 

“I thought, if I’m not going to use it, why am I keeping it?”   Read more... (387 words, estimated 1:33 mins reading time)

Summer kick off: Mount Angel hosts two-day Independence celebration

By Melissa Wagoner

When the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce realized this year Independence Day fell on a Sunday, they saw it as a chance to shake up the usual traditions. 

“[I]t seemed like a great opportunity to add an additional event on Saturday to bring people together and celebrate our town, community and independence,” Chamber of Commerce President Sarah Bauman explained. 

“The initial idea was to host it downtown around the gazebo to encourage people to walk the town and patronize our small business owners. However, we continued to run up against problems with city permits and fees. In the end, it made more sense to move the event to the Festhalle.”  Read more... (486 words, estimated 1:57 mins reading time)

Break the cycle: Too much pandemic screen time raises issues

By Melissa Wagoner

Too much time spent interacting with screens was a problem long before the pandemic, so much so that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued specific guidelines about the quantity of time children should spend in front of
a screen. 

“For children younger than two years, the AAP discourages all screen time and encourages ‘…more interactive activities that will promote proper brain development, such as talking, playing, singing, and reading together,’” Scott Hamblin, a pediatrician at Childhood Health in Silverton explained. In addition, “The AAP recommends limiting older children’s total screen time to no more than one to two hours of quality programming per day.”  Read more... (1098 words, estimated 4:24 mins reading time)

Datebook: July 2021

Datebook Submission Information

Get your events and fundraisers published in Our Town. If your ongoing event was cancelled because of COVID-19 and is starting up again, please send a new listing. If you are meeting by Zoom or virtually, send those, too! Send your releases to datebook@mtangelpub.com. Or drop them off at 401 Oak St., Silverton.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Weekly Events

Monday:

SACA Food Pantry, 9 a.m. – noon, SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. Repeats Thursdays. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tuesday – Saturday. Volunteers needed. 503-845-6998  Read more... (2070 words, estimated 8:17 mins reading time)

Grand Skape: Family opens series of businesses in Mount Angel

By Melissa Wagoner

Tammy Plummer, Mary Jane Field, Deanna Bany and Karra Plummer at Chic Skape in Mt. Angel

Skape is the Norwegian word for create but it’s also the word that describes Tammy Plummer, whose world revolves around all things creative from sewing and quilting to painting and cooking. She’s rarely seen without a project in hand. 

“I’ve always said, I could be Martha Stewart if I had her crew,” Tammy laughed. “I have a mind that doesn’t stop with ideas.”  Read more... (789 words, 1 image, estimated 3:09 mins reading time)

Silverton Road: Detour continues

By James Day

The six-month detour for bridge work on Silverton Road between Silverton and Salem appears to be going well, project officials say.

“Overall the detour has been very successful, although there is always an adjustment period with any detour and this one was no exception,” said Steven Preszler, the project manager with Marion County Public Works. 

The county is replacing the seismically unsafe bridge over the Little Pudding River with a modern upgrade in a $6.4 million project largely funded by the federal government. 

Silverton Road is closed 2.5 miles west of Howell Prairie Road through mid-November, with recommended detour routes Sunnyview or Hazelgreen roads.  Read more... (335 words, 1 image, estimated 1:20 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Sister Julia ‘Cecelia’ McGanty (Jan. 10, 1930 – June 11, 2021)

Sr. Julia McGanty, O.S.B., a long-time member of Queen of Angels Monastery, died in the very early afternoon of June 11, 2021, in the infirmary at Queen of Angels Monastery, Mount Angel, Oregon. 

Born in Yamhill, Oregon, to William and Margaret McGanty, Sr. Julia (Cecelia) McGanty attended St. John’s Church in Yamhill as a child and attended schools in Yamhill and McMinnville. She continued her education while in boarding school at Mt. Angel Academy and at Mt. Angel College. Influenced by the prayer life of the Benedictine Sisters, Cecelia asked to enter the religious community and professed her vows on Feb. 10, 1949, taking the name of Sister Julia.  Read more... (417 words, 1 image, estimated 1:40 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Ross Louis Taylor (June 19, 1946 – May 16, 2021)

Ross Louis Taylor, 74, passed away on May 16, 2021. A graveside memorial service was held in Scotts Mills, Oregon at the Maplewood Pioneer Cemetery on June 26. 

Ross was born in Forest Grove, Oregon on June 19, 1946 to Jack and Margaret Taylor. He grew up in Scotts Mills and graduated from Silverton High School in 1964. 

Ross joined the United States Navy and served from 1965-1969 during the Vietnam War on the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 and USS Enterprise CVA(N)-65.

After leaving the Navy, Ross attended Lane Community College and majored in art.   Read more... (277 words, 1 image, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Paul Sheets (Nov. 13, 1954 – June 2, 2021)

Paul Sheets passed away June 2, 2021 surrounded by those who loved him.He was 66. 

Paul was born Nov. 13, 1954 in Hillsboro, Oregon where he grew up and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1972. 

Paul moved to Silverton in 2000 and served as Postmaster for the Silverton Post Office until his retirement in 2014. His postal career also included time in Portland, Newport and Lincoln City prior to Silverton. 

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Geralyn Sheets, his son Nicholas Sheets and sister Susan McCalib-Lund.   Read more... (151 words, 1 image, estimated 36 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Fay Anderson (Feb. 18, 1926 – June 5, 2021)

Fay Evangeline Neitzke Anderson was born in Lewiston, Minnesota on Feb. 18, 1926, the first child of John and Bessie Neitzke. 

She grew up on the family farm in Rochester, graduating in 1944 from Lewiston High School. Fay then became an registered nurse, graduating from Kahler Hospital School of Nursing in Rochester, Minnesota.

In 1948, Fay moved to Santa Barbara, California where she worked at Cottage Hospital, attended Westmont College, and met her future husband, George Anderson, at the Open Bible Church. They married on June 5, 1949. The couple had three children, Julie Lynn, Lori Jean, and Mark Steven.  Read more... (351 words, 1 image, estimated 1:24 mins reading time)

Bird box: Retirement brought out the artist in Susan Murray

By Melissa Wagoner

Artist, Susan Murray, with her bird boxes and garden art at Finds that Shine in Silverton

Susan Murray hasn’t always been an artist. In fact, she spent the majority of her life working in higher education, first as an instructor and later as Executive Dean of Academic Advancement at Chemeketa Community College. But, upon her retirement from academia six years ago, Murray needed a hobby.

“I really didn’t know what in creation I was going to do after I retired,” Murray laughed.   Read more... (527 words, 5 images, estimated 2:06 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Now – A call for the community to use allyship to address race-based hate

By Kyle Palmer
Mayor of Silverton

Earlier this week, one of our citizens took her young child to the reservoir for a little bit of fun in the great weather. Not long after arriving, several teenagers taunted them using the N-word and only stopped when they finally realized they weren’t going to get a reaction. No one there was able to stand up and be their ally (I recognize that not all scenarios provide enough safety for someone to do so, but allyship is one of the best and strongest tools to fight this behavior). An adult was overheard nearby saying that the kids were just being “silly.”  Read more... (910 words, estimated 3:38 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Library staff appreciated

Library staff appreciated

My family and I would like to thank Jackie and her staff at the Mt. Angel Public Library for their continued assistance during the lockdown. Their pleasant attitude toward and thoughtful consideration of the patrons was appreciated.

Thanks!

Liz Orr
Scotts Mills

Letters to the Editor: A tribute…

The basketballs were pushed into their usual spot in the closet.

17 months later.

The jerseys were tucked away in bins.

17 months later.

The bleachers’ seats were pushed back against the wall.

17 months later.

17 months later.

Our jerseys cried for us, and the bleacher seats longed to hear the cheers of the crowd.

The court was left empty, the same painted lines that had been there for years still etched the floor. Everything and everyone gave up on the game.

17 months later.

17 months later.  Read more... (285 words, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Praise for McClaine Street project

June basketball? Both Foxes teams lose – just once – in near-perfect season

The Silverton High basketball teams finished their 2020-21 seasons on June 23, ten days after the seniors graduated and 15 months after a global pandemic left them waiting at the altar at a state tournament which held such promise.

There. That’s a weird sentence, isn’t it?

Somehow the hoopsters were able to finish a truncated six-week season, just like their fall and spring counterparts, although the OSAA calendar mandated that winter come after spring this school year. All good. That’s why I froze in March during the first couple of football games and the basketball players had… tans.  Read more... (622 words, 1 image, estimated 2:29 mins reading time)

Overnight additions: Lodging options increase at Silver Falls

By James Day

The overnight facilities at what used to be called the Silver Falls Lodge and Conference Center have reopened under new management after a six-month closure.

Silver Falls Hospitality will be operating the facility, which is now called Smith Creek Village, with the name noting the nearby stream. Silver Falls Hospitality is operating the concession under an agreement with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Included among the overnight accommodations are the Foothills and Davidson ranches northeast of the old conference center compound. The two large-group facilities formerly were called The Ranches.  Read more... (206 words, estimated 49 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Perspective – Beating the cynicism disease

We’re all going to be OK.

That is the inescapable conclusion I have reached. I was at a minor league baseball game a few weeks ago, scanning the crowd between pitches. There were families enjoying the evening as the boys of summer sparkled on the diamond. The homers were accompanied by lusty cheers, a light breeze played among the pennants posted beyond center field. For the seventh-inning stretch God Bless America was sung along with the obligatory Take Me out to the Ballgame.

So good.

After more than a year of this virus and that wildfire, of uncertainty and government confusion, we are back
on track.  Read more... (523 words, 1 image, estimated 2:06 mins reading time)

Profound results: Kloft family returns home after kidney transplant

By Melissa Wagoner

John, Mike and Patty, post surgery at Stanford Medical Center — courtesy of Patty Kloft

In less than a year eight-year-old John Kloft went from being diagnosed with kidney disease to receiving the transplant of a new, healthy, functioning kidney, courtesy of his mother, Patty.

“I’d do it again,” 31-year-old Patty said unhesitatingly. “I’ll never take health for granted again.”

It’s been a whirlwind journey for the family, who received the devastating news that John had stage four kidney disease and would need a transplant in May 2020. It was in the midst of the pandemic, making healthcare decisions difficult.  Read more... (796 words, 1 image, estimated 3:11 mins reading time)

Preparedness: Strong Silverton initiates TBOne Ready

Junior First Citizen: JFK’s Hailey Arritola receives scholarship

By Melissa Wagoner

Hailey Arritola, Jr First Citizen Scholarship recipient with parents, Jodi and Lance Arritola

When Hailey Arritola found out she was the recipient of this year’s Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce Junior First Citizen Award – a $2,000 scholarship presented annually to a deserving senior at John F. Kennedy High School – she was beyond surprised.

“I’m just super excited,” she enthused. “I didn’t expect this at all.”

A member of the Future Business Leaders of America, the National Honors Society, JFK for Life, Habitat for Humanity and ASB Vice President, Arritola has an aptitude for leadership.  Read more... (519 words, 1 image, estimated 2:05 mins reading time)

In the path of service: Elise Suing receives Maureen Ernst Scholarship

By Melissa Wagoner

Elise Suing, Maureen Ernst Memorial Scholarship Recipient

Maureen Ernst was a longtime member of the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce and a passionate advocate for her community. So much so that, when she passed away in 2018, the chamber created the Maureen Ernst Scholarship, which funds a $2,000 unrestricted gift to a deserving John F. Kennedy High School senior each year.

“When we remember Maureen, we remember her dedication to volunteerism and the friendly, positive manner in which she shared her love for Mount Angel to everyone she encountered,” Chamber Treasurer Kristi Brackinreed said at the presentation of this year’s award to graduate Elise Suing.  Read more... (526 words, 1 image, estimated 2:06 mins reading time)

Success honored: FBLA instructor Miles receives Advisor of Year award

By Melissa Wagoner

Riane Miles — courtesy of Riane Miles

Riane Miles didn’t set out to teach business classes. A graduate of Oregon State University, she has a Master’s Degree in Agriculture Education. But when her alma mater, Silverton High School, reached out to her and asked, “What do you think about teaching business?” She thought – why not try something different?

Never someone to do a thing halfway, Miles took the bull by the horns, getting her Career and Technical Education license in Business and becoming the school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) advisor.  Read more... (535 words, 1 image, estimated 2:08 mins reading time)

Peace’s paintings: New artwork to be installed at Silver Falls Lodge

The artist known as Peace with his painting of the South Falls in Silver Falls Lodge

By Melissa Wagoner

“I’m an artist and not particularly tied down,” Peace said of the journey that inspired him to work as the sole artist-in-residence at Silver Falls State Park for the first time in 2015.

Coming off a pilgrimage for peace, in which the artist attempted to run across the United States, Peace felt he needed a change of pace – literally. And so, he hopped on his bike and headed out.  Read more... (547 words, 3 images, estimated 2:11 mins reading time)

Best in class: Foxes hoops squads win 6A challenge

In Memoriam: Nola Jean Parkinson (Sept. 5, 1931 – May 31, 2021)

In Memoriam: Edward Turvey (May 16, 1948 – May 28, 2021)

In Memoriam: Barbara Ann Schell (Sept. 19, 1943 – May 23, 2021)

People Out Loud: Life lessons – Class of 2021 got more than their share of them

To the graduates of 2021, my sincere congratulations for your wonderful accomplishments. It could not have been harder, right?

You weathered COVID-19, quarantines, wildfires, ice storms, and an entirely new but hopefully temporary “normal.” You learned online in your pajamas, caught sneak peeks of your friends on weekends or when the Zoom teacher was looking the other way, missed out on so many events like prom, homecoming, theater productions, speech competitions, club events, and the socialization that makes high school special. It had to have been a huge challenge to learn on-line, maintain friendships, figure out scholarships, and attract colleges with your academics, canary-like singing voices, cello skills, and athletic prowess. Your faces were covered with masks and hand sanitizer took the place of your favorite fragrances.   Read more... (669 words, 1 image, estimated 2:41 mins reading time)

Berry time: Strawberry Festival returns – despite pandemic – for 70th year

Dig it: Grass roots effort to de-weed Oregon Garden receives outpouring of support

By Melissa Wagoner

Mary Coleman at The Oregon Garden.
HELEN THOMAS

“This is a call to arms for our community to help save our local treasure – The Oregon Garden,” Mary Coleman wrote in an impassioned post on the Facebook group, Silverton Connections on May 23.

Within hours Coleman’s post had dozens of replies from community members eager to pitch in.

“She just went for it,” Ana Farris, Botanical Curator for the garden, said. “She’s actually up here right now pulling weeds with a couple of ladies.”  Read more... (438 words, 1 image, estimated 1:45 mins reading time)

Geology rocks: New book guides exploration of the Pacific Northwest

Trauma and isolation: Solving houselessness is a community issue

Dinner in the Field – June 4

Robert Frost holds Drive By Goodbye

New Pastures: Mt. Angel Superintendent Troy Stoops heads to Junction City

By Brenna Wiegand

Troy Stoops is leaving Mt. Angel School District after ten years as superintendent. He has taken the superintendent position at Junction City School District. BRENNA WIEGAND

Mt. Angel School District Superintendent Troy Stoops is moving on after 10 years to take the helm at Junction City School District.

“Junction City is about the size of Mount Angel – about 1,800 kids,” Stoops said. “Like Mount Angel, it’s a rural farming community in close proximity to the city.”

Stoops officially retired from PERS (Public Employees Retirement System) in January but would like to work at least another four to six years.  Read more... (1177 words, 1 image, estimated 4:42 mins reading time)

The Harmony Project: Matching instruments, mentors, to students

By Melissa Wagoner

Cecelia Petrik tutoring a fifth grader on the clarinet

When Frank Petrik was a child, he found an old saxophone in his grandfather’s closet. That moment set him on the path to college, a full-ride scholarship,
and eventually a career as a band teacher, sharing a love for music with generations of students. But it all leads back to that day.

“Had he not been given that instrument, his family would not have been able to afford to purchase him a saxophone,” Frank’s wife, Amanda, said. She explained that it is for this reason that Frank, with the help of Silverton Friends of Music, has started the Harmony Project.  Read more... (697 words, 1 image, estimated 2:47 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Thank you, supporters

Datebook: June 2021

In Memoriam: Duane Ray Dahlum

In Memoriam: Ernest Dye Humphreys (July 18, 1959 – May 6, 2021)

Ernest “Ernie” Dye Humphreys passed away on May 6, 2021 surrounded by loved ones at the age of 61. Ernie was born in Everett, Washington on July 18, 1959 and moved to Silverton, Oregon where he grew up and spent most of his life.

He is survived by his love of 28 years, Dyana Stanley; his children, Aaron, Brad, Ashley, Justin, and Colton; four brothers and four sisters, grandchildren, as well as a host of many other family members and friends.

Ernie was a hard-working man that possessed many talents and took pride in all he did. He had many careers in his lifetime ranging from work in  Read more... (242 words, 1 image, estimated 58 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Leslie Elling (Aug. 31, 1936 – Dec. 25, 2020)

Leslie was born in Williston, North Dakota to John R. Elling and Gunda (Vollum) Elling.

Leslie had lived in Silverton, Oregon before moving to Fairbanks, Alaska in 1976. He worked on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline as an Operating Engineer. He retired in 1992. Leslie returned to Silverton, Oregon to live, while continuing to travel up to Alaska, as well as snow birding down in Arizona in the winter months. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. In 2015 he moved to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He spent his last two years living in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Read more... (198 words, 1 image, estimated 48 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: John Franklin Lalicker (May 2, 1923 – May 21, 2021)

John Franklin Lalicker, 98, longtime Silverton, Oregon resident passed away on May 21, 2021. John was born May 2, 1923 in Venita, Oklahoma to William L. Lalicker and Ella Mae (Catlin) Lalicker. He was the middle son of three boys. 

In 1923, his family moved to Medicine Lodge, Kansas where he attended local schools and graduated from Medicine Lodge High School in 1941 where he lettered in football, basketball and track. John served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. On Aug. 3, 1943, he married his high school sweetheart, Eileen Page, on her parent’s ranch near Gerlane, Kansas.  Read more... (467 words, 1 image, estimated 1:52 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Donald Herman Huebsch (Nov. 15, 1925 – May 11, 2021)

Donald (Don) Herman Huebsch, 95, a veteran of World War II and longtime resident of Mount Angel, Oregon, passed away on May 11, 2021. 

Don was born on Nov. 15, 1925 at St. James Hospital in Perham, Minnesota. He was one of nine children born to Michael (Mike) and Florence (Weis) Huebsch. After graduating from high school in 1943, Don traveled out to Oregon to stay with his Aunt Minnie Weis in Mount Angel. He helped harvest flax and peas and worked on the surveyor crew that built the Aurora State Airport.   Read more... (277 words, 1 image, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

Kennedy dominant: Trojans earn title in softball, take second in baseball

The Kennedy softball squad claimed the Class 2A state title May 22 with a pair of victories, an 8-1 semifinal win vs. Union/Cove and a 16-0 title win vs. Grant Union/Prairie City.

The Trojans, who were runners-up to North Douglas in 2019 before missing the entire 2020 season amid the pandemic, finished 16-0 and outscored opponents 205-8. Kennedy also got its revenge against North Douglas, scoring an emphatic 12-0 win May 7 in Mount Angel.  Read more... (641 words, 1 image, estimated 2:34 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: June 2021

Tuesday, June 1

Girls Basketball

5 p.m. Western Christian @ Kennedy

7 p.m. Silverton @ South Salem

Wrestling

6 p.m. Silverton @ Central

Boys Basketball

6:30 p.m. Western Christian @ Kennedy

7 p.m. South Salem @ Silverton

Wednesday, June 2

Girls Basketball

7 p.m. West Salem @ Silverton

Boys Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton @ West Salem

Thursday,
June 3

Boys & Girls Swimming

4 p.m. Silverton @ Corvallis

Boys Basketball

6:30 p.m. Kennedy @ Crosshill Christian

Friday, June 4

Boys Basketball  Read more... (288 words, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

Motion for all ages: Silver Falls Family YMCA grants access to healthy life style programs

By Brenna Wiegand

A dryland swim team workout at Silver Falls Family YMCA. The Y offers a wide range of programming to enrich the lives of youth and families in the Silverton area.

Lifeguards Catherine Hyde and Kate Fronza are among many Silverton High School students
making up the YMCA staff. The Y is always looking for kids who love water to join the
program.

for Silver Falls Family YMCA to meet the needs of the community it serves.  Read more... (1054 words, 2 images, estimated 4:13 mins reading time)

A Grin at the End: 50 years later – High school when you look back at it

One of the few fringe benefits of this pandemic is the fact that my 50th high school reunion was canceled. That’s right, the Conestoga High School Class of 1971 has let the coronavirus get the best of it. I suppose that means the constabulary of Berwyn, Pennsylvania, won’t have to worry about a bunch of 67-year-old duffers running over curbs and backing into street signs.

Whew.

It’s not that I didn’t like those people. I just didn’t know most of them. The idea of hanging around in a hotel ballroom with 500 almost-strangers is something I won’t miss.  Read more... (554 words, 1 image, estimated 2:13 mins reading time)

Perfecting a Palace: New amenities with theater’s reopening

By Melissa Wagoner

Erik and Rachelle Gonterman, owners of the Silverton Palace Theater, with granddaughter, Vivianna, in front of the new refreshment counter

There’s never been a better time to go to the theater – at least according to Rachelle Gonterman – manager of the Silverton Palace Theater.

“COVID has everybody tired of being cooped up at home,” she said. “But a lot of people don’t know we’re open.”

Taking over the theater in October 2020, Rachelle and her husband, Erik, had yet to show a single movie until April 9 when they screened The Croods: A New Age as their grand opening feature.  Read more... (391 words, 1 image, estimated 1:34 mins reading time)

A welcoming spirit – Benedictine Brewery hosts O’fest food favorites

By Melissa Wagoner

Mt. Angel’s Benedictine Brewery

For those who have missed their favorite Oktoberfest treats during the past 16 months, now is your chance to indulge, as the Benedictine Brewery in Mount Angel hosts a line-up of iconic Oktoberfest food carts this summer.

“Part of our mission is helping the community,” brewery manager Nicole McCall said of the impetus to invite the booths. The majority are run by nonprofits that traditionally rely heavily on the funds raised during the annual festival.

“It’ll help the booths,” McCall confirmed. “And they need the help.”  Read more... (272 words, 1 image, estimated 1:05 mins reading time)

Art shift: Silverton Art Association broadens vision for annual festival

By Melissa Wagoner

Known for many creative activities for all ages, the Silverton Fine Arts Festival – last held in 2019- has been rechristened Silverton Arts Festival

The mission of the Silverton Arts Association has long been to further the arts through education, promotion and exhibition.

“But we’re struggling,” board member Harold Wood admitted. “Everyone is underground in their basement.”

In short, 2020 was a tough year for artists.

“With the pandemic, we lost our stage,” Wood said. “There’s no show-and-tell anymore. I think a lot of artists do what they do to show people, I have value, I’m creative. And then when you put the pandemic into it, that diminishes.”  Read more... (509 words, 2 images, estimated 2:02 mins reading time)

Mt. Angel board names finalists for district’s next superintendent

Operation vaccination: Legacy invests in pop-up clinics

By Brenna Wiegand

Pop-up vaccine clinics Legacy Health at Coleman Farms. Brenna Wiegand

When the COVID-19 vaccine first became available in late December, Legacy Silverton Medical Center opened a clinic and started providing vaccines, first to primary care providers, then teachers. By January’s end about 5,000 people had been vaccinated at the Silverton campus.

Not long after the vaccine became available to the general public, it became clear that some key populations in Woodburn were being underserved.  Read more... (799 words, 1 image, estimated 3:12 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Thank you, Silverton

Letters to the Editor: There’s more to the tree story

Letters to the Editor: Mantie for school board

Letters to the Editor: Support for Stephanie

In Memoriam: Denise Marie Totland (Sept. 7, 1962 – April 27, 2021)

Denise Totland

Denise Marie (Howes) Totland, 58, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2021. A graveside memorial service will be held in Silverton on Saturday, May 22, 2021, under the direction of Unger Funeral Home. Visit ungerfuneralchapel.com for details.

Denise was born in Burns, Oregon on Sept. 7, 1962 to Don and Theresa Howes. She grew up in Ontario, Oregon where she graduated in 1980. Denise went on to beauty school in Boise, Idaho. She then moved to Salem, Oregon.

Denise devoted her life to loving and caring for her daughters. She worked as a medical assistant in various practices over the last 30 years. Most recently, she worked at Rite Aid Pharmacy.  Read more... (189 words, 1 image, estimated 45 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: David Jorgenson (Nov. 25, 1952 – April 26, 2021)

David Jorgenson

David Jorgenson, 68 passed away April 26, 2021 at his residence with his family by his side. He was born in Silverton on Nov. 25, 1952 to Vincent and Frankie Jorgenson. David is survived by his wife Donna Jorgenson.

David had three siblings: Doug
Jorgenson, Chris Jorgenson Rettig and Gina Jorgenson; four children: Sarah Kuenzi, Neil Jorgenson, Ryan Jorgenson, and Erin Bleakney; 11 grandchildren: Michael Kuenzi, Julia Kuenzi, Anna Kuenzi and Matthew Kuenzi, Liesl and Finn Jorgenson, Evelyn, Alison and Mason Jorgenson, Ben and Thomas Bleakney; and one great-granddaughter, Katie.

David’s fondest memories were teaching  Read more... (188 words, 1 image, estimated 45 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Mary Ann Miles (Oct. 29, 1934 – May 5, 2021)

In Memoriam: Rodney Weston Kilcup (Feb. 11, 1937 – April 21, 2021)

Rodney Kilcup

Rodney Weston Kilcup of Silverton succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease on April 21, 2021. He died in peace and at home, surrounded by the love of his family. He is dearly missed by those whose lives he touched.

Rodney was born in Hoquiam, Washington in 1937 to Horace and Winnifred Kilcup.

He studied history at the University of Washington – the first in his family to pursue higher education. He later earned a PhD in history at Harvard University and began a career as a history professor serving at universities including the University of Chicago, the University of Washington, and the University of Notre Dame.  Read more... (212 words, 1 image, estimated 51 secs reading time)

Looking Back: If these stones could talk – Discovering a local Civil War veteran

By Brenna Wiegand

Theobald Kirsch

Theobald & Theresa (Von Hatten) Kirsch

Jim Kosel was going through memorabilia at Mount Angel American Legion Post #89 when he came across four documents related to Civil War
veteran Theobald Kirsch.

These original documents record
Kirsch’s entry and discharge from the Ohio Infantry during the Civil War, making him one of the oldest veterans in either of the two St. Mary’s cemeteries in Mount Angel.  Read more... (680 words, 2 images, estimated 2:43 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: A salute to ‘Captain A’ – Plus the hum of a rebounding community

Something for the Soul: Local labyrinths

By Melissa Wagoner

Celebration encourages community to take long way ‘round

Labyrinth at the Shalom Prayer Center – courtesy of Sister Dorothy Jean Beyer

Each year on the first Saturday in May, people across the globe take part in a form of moving meditation known as “walk as one at 1,” in honor of world peace. Utilizing labyrinths – those meandering single-pathed designs constructed to promote personal, spiritual and psychological transformation – World Labyrinth Day unites people in parks, churches, schools, prisons, and even backyards, in a celebration of the labyrinth experience.   Read more... (691 words, 1 image, estimated 2:46 mins reading time)

Virtual concerts set at Mount Angel Abbey

The Willamette Master Chorus will perform Spring Concerts, Sacred Music on Sundays, May 2 and 16 at Mount Angel Abbey. The concert will be made available to stream online.

While the chorus cannot participate as a large group in the church, they are able to capture some incredible sounds at this beloved site. 

Accompanist Debra Huddleston will join the WMC by pre-recording on the great organ in the gallery and the choir loft’s smaller organ.   Read more... (182 words, estimated 44 secs reading time)

Mark Twain oaks – Community members turn out in droves to replant trees

By Melissa Wagoner

When horticulturist Eric Hammond, heard that the majority of the oak trees in a grove adjacent to Mark Twain Elementary School were removed after the February ice storm, he saw an opportunity. 

“I sent emails explaining the importance of the oaks from an ecological standpoint and a social standpoint,” Hammond said of the communication he initiated with the Silver Falls School District. 

“I said, the district should also take advantage of it from an educational standpoint.”  Read more... (419 words, estimated 1:41 mins reading time)

Storm damaged trees can remain a hazard

By James Day

This ice storm-damaged tree on B Street finally was taken down in mid-April. Trees that still appear to be a public hazard can be reported to the city for assessment.

Yes, the ice storm has passed and most of the debris has been taken care of. But what do you do if you see signs in your neighborhood of a tree that is failing?

The first person to call, said interim City Manager Bob Willoughby, is Sean Farris.  Read more... (148 words, 1 image, estimated 36 secs reading time)

Something Fun: Pet Parade update – 2021 event a definite maybe

By Melissa Wagoner

“The Pet Parade is scheduled for May 15 at 10 a.m., as normal,” Randal Thomas – a member of the Kiwanis Club of Silverton and chairman of the parade – said, adding it will go on as long as Marion County is not in Oregon’s Extreme Risk level for  COVID-19 on that date. 

Canceled in 2020 for the first time since its inception in 1934, the Silverton Pet Parade is a tradition like no other.

“It is your quintessential small-town event,” Thomas confirmed. Adding, “It’s not just for kids. We have adults in their 50s, 60s, 70s and older. We had a woman whose dog won one year and she was in her 80s.”  Read more... (448 words, estimated 1:48 mins reading time)

Answering the call: Neighboring fire districts team up to vaccinate public

By Melissa Wagoner

Victor Hoffer vaccinating Mayor Don Fleck with the 2000th vaccination since the MAFD began vaccinating — courtesy of Victor Hoffer

What started as the Mt. Angel Fire District (MAFD) providing COVID-19 vaccinations to their own paramedics and firefighters this February, quickly grew as they reached out to other districts – Silverton, Woodburn, Lyons and Mill City among them – to provide vaccines.

“We ended up doing around 400 first responders,” Fire Chief Jim Trierweiler said. “Fortunately for us, we’re already trained in that. It was simply reading up and learning the indications and contraindications. Being EMTs and paramedics we already give injections. In the early days it was mobile, we went to someone’s drill night.”  Read more... (498 words, 1 image, estimated 2:0 mins reading time)

The time is now: Planning for future wildfires shouldn’t be delayed

By Melissa Wagoner

Weeks out from the official start of summer and fire experts are already warning Oregonians of another potentially difficult fire season. Which is why Carrie Berger, a fire program manager with the OSU Extension service, has recently partnered with both state and local agencies to launch a series of webinars titled, “Fire Aware. Fire Prepared,” to help get communities ready.

“Last summer’s wildfire events impacted most Oregonians and we learned that everyone living in Oregon should be prepared for a wildfire emergency,” Berger said.  Read more... (549 words, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Datebook – May 2021

Datebook Submission Information

Get your events and fundraisers published in Our Town. If your ongoing event was canceled because of COVID-19 and is starting up again, please send a new listing. If you are meeting by Zoom or virtually, send those, too. Send your releases to datebook@mtangelpub.com. Or drop them off at 401 Oak St., Silverton.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Weekly Events

Monday

SACA Food Pantry, 9 a.m. – noon, SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. Repeats Thursdays. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tuesday – Saturday. Volunteers needed. 503-845-6998  Read more... (1821 words, estimated 7:17 mins reading time)

Silver Falls School District names Melissa Linder Silver Crest principal

Silver Falls School District has announced the selection of  Melissa Linder as the new principal for Silver Crest School and district assistant director of teaching and learning.

Her first day will be July 1. Linder’s selection followed a process of community and staff input; a writing assessment; a case study analysis presentation; town hall sessions with community and staff members; and multiple interviews with senior district leadership. 

“We are so excited to have Melissa Linder join our team in SFSD,” said Superintendent Scott Drue. “She is an instructional leader of the highest order. Melissa has a proven leadership track record of adding value to those she serves.”  Read more... (194 words, estimated 47 secs reading time)

Lunaria reveals ‘Neo Geo’ in May

Lunaria Gallery presents Neo Geo, a show by Lunaria painter Jane Castelan Buccola and jeweler Dawn Hemstreet. 

Buccola’s painting involves exploration, personal expression, play, experimentation with color as well as texture.  She likes to bring mystery and an abiguousness to her work in order to allow the viewer to form their own interpretation.

Hemstreet is drawn to Scandinavian modernist jewelry from the 1970s. She wanted to see if metal clay hollow forms could be created that would have modernist shapes as well as texture since most modernist jewelry was created without stones or texture.   Read more... (186 words, estimated 45 secs reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Support for ‘supermom’ in school board election

We wholeheartedly endorse Melissa Seifer Briggs for Silver Falls School Board. Melissa is an experienced attorney, most recently with the Oregon Judicial Department, and a Silverton native. She and her husband, David Briggs, have five young children, ages 12 to 3. Melissa is devoted to all children, especially those who may be disadvantaged or at risk. The depth and breadth of her experience with public schools is so impressive – Melissa is all in when it comes to students.  Read more... (262 words, estimated 1:03 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: A ‘fresh voice’ for school board

I want to express my support for Stephanie Mantie for a position on the Silver Falls School Board. She has the intellect and background that would greatly benefit our school district at this time.   

Stephanie has been actively involved in our local schools and has built solid relationships with our diverse community. She believes that the school district needs to be an active partner with our parents in providing the education to our students.   

Stephanie will provide a fresh voice and perspective as the district moves back to full in-person learning and moves beyond this troubling time for our district.    Read more... (122 words, estimated 29 secs reading time)

Letters to the Editor: ‘Thrilled’ advocates for Mantie

We have had the privilege of knowing Stephanie Mantie for 20 years. We served together in our church youth group for many years. We have witnessed her raise her kids, serve others, and interact in the community. We cannot recommend her enough for the position on the school board. 

She is a person of immense integrity. We have witnessed her in situations of conflict. Her ability to remain thoughtful, kind-hearted, and willing to see the other side of things was constant and impressive. She cares deeply for all people.   Read more... (229 words, estimated 55 secs reading time)

Collaborators: Silverton Service Integration Team welcomes more participation

By Melissa Wagoner 

Members of the Santiam Service Integration Team staff. Courtesy of Melissa Baurer

What happens when a graduating senior can’t afford a class ring? What about when a mom needs new tires for her car in order to transport her sick child to medical appointments – is there funding for that? And if there is, where does it come from?  Read more... (923 words, 1 image, estimated 3:42 mins reading time)

Steady Path: Trail Keepers of Oregon expands its mission to Silver Falls

By Melissa Wagoner

Installation of gabions on Maple Ridge Trail. Arthur Mills

There are thousands of hiking trails in Oregon, many of them almost a century old and most of them maintained by volunteers – such as those organized by Trail Keepers of Oregon (TKO).

“We do trail maintenance and repair for state parks and national parks,” volunteer and Silver Falls State Park Crew Leader Arthur Mills explained. “The people who started it were a bunch of hikers working on an abandoned trail on Mt. Hood.”  Read more... (566 words, 1 image, estimated 2:16 mins reading time)

Remembering Tom Dill

In Memoriam: Jerome Francis Donahe (Aug. 14, 1937 – April 17, 2021)

Jerome Francis (Jerry or J. F.) Donahe, of Silverton, passed in the early morning hours of April 17 in Salem, Oregon. 

He was born Aug. 14, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois to Bernard Anthony and Thelma Sophia (Follesvold) Donahe. An older sister, Joanne, greeted him and he was followed by a younger sister, Selene.

At the age of 11, he moved with his family to Sweet Home, Oregon, where he graduated from high school. He served as senior class president, was active in the music program, and lettered in football, basketball and baseball. After attending Pacific Lutheran University (where he played football and baseball), he worked for a short time at Boeing, living near Seattle, and then enjoyed a very prosperous career in financial services with Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance and Thrivent Lutheran Brotherhood while living in West Linn and Lake Oswego.   Read more... (373 words, estimated 1:30 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Cruz Arce (May 3, 1945 – April 10, 2021)

Cruz Arce, 75 passed away on April 10, 2021, at her residence with family by her side.

She was born in Edinburg, Texas on May 5, 1945, to Antonio Arce and Maria Magdalena Perez. She was the second oldest of 12 children.

Cruz enjoyed family time, dancing and cooking for the family.

Cruz is survived by her children: Nora Benavidez, Deanida Benavidez, Francisco Benavidez, Sara Benavidez, Dora Linda Cortez, and Jesus Antonio Garza; 14 grandchildren,15 great-grandchildren with two on the way; siblings Antonio Garza, Jose Arce, Susie Guarjardo, Juan Arce, Juanita Leach, Antonio Arce Jr. and Una Arce.  Read more... (131 words, 1 image, estimated 31 secs reading time)

COVID Lessons: Foxes football coach looks back

A Grin at the End: Duck-duck-boom – Ideas to solve the world’s problems

Hiccup: Silverton Road bridge work might be delayed

Logs can be seen from the trees that were felled for utility line relocation on the Silverton Road bridge over the Little Pudding River. The bridge is being replaced and there will be detours around the work for approximately seven months starting about May 1. James Day

By James Day

The Marion County work on the bridge over the Little Pudding River between Silverton and Salem has been delayed slightly.

County officials originally hoped that the detours required for the lengthy project would be in place by May 1. But a shortage of poles for the project’s temporary signal lights is making that date more of a moving target, said Steve Preszler, project manager with the county.  Read more... (423 words, 1 image, estimated 1:42 mins reading time)

The COVID season: Kennedy football produces most compelling story

By James Day

The season of fall sports in the spring is over, and for the most part things turned out all right. Most of the games were played. Soccer and volleyball squads played legitimate league seasons. Small school cross country teams put on a state championship meet.

Good for them. The thing about a crisis like COVID is that it tests people and their resilience. I’d like to think we learned a thing or two along the way. 

I saw five football games and one soccer match. In all six occasions the temperature was at 45 degrees or below when the event concluded. So much for spring. Almost no spectators. But still lots of excitement.   Read more... (882 words, 1 image, estimated 3:32 mins reading time)

Farm-zilla: Spring sign-up time for farm fresh produce

By Melissa Wagoner

Farm-zilla is the newest CSA farm option in the community. Submitted photo.

Brenda Sparks is a farmer at heart. Raised in California by horticulturist parents on a small, five-acre farm, she grew up helping in the fields, selling vegetables at the local Farmer’s Market and raising animals through 4-H and FFA. 

“Farming is very therapeutic for me as a mother of four kids,” she said. “It energizes me and is my self-care.”

Starting this spring, Sparks will begin sharing her joy for growing things with the community around her through a newly developed Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.  Read more... (513 words, 1 image, estimated 2:03 mins reading time)

The Good, the bad, the lessons: Looking back over a year of the pandemic

By Melissa Wagoner

One year ago, April Newton and her husband Tom were at a medical conference in Hawaii when he received some sobering news – Oregon had its first confirmed positive case of the new coronavirus disease.

“We spent a blissful week on Kuai… but we were there with a big group of doctors and lots of discussions about what was about to happen took place,” Newton wrote in a Facebook post commemorating the one-year anniversary of that trip. “I clearly remember Tom telling me one night to prepare myself because this was going to be a big deal and last more than a few weeks.”  Read more... (1264 words, estimated 5:03 mins reading time)

Taking to the air: Radio control airplane club finds Silverton home

Don DeYoe holds Jerry Hall’s F-82 during a test run at the Holden/Bevens Flying Field on Old Mt. Angel Highway outside of Silverton.

By Brenna Wiegand

It is no picnic for an RC airplane to find its place in the sun these days.

“Our situation is so special,” Bob Bevens, founding member of Keizer Radio Control Association, said. “We need a certain amount of land for flying; we’ve got to park and at times accommodate the public.”

When the club needed a new home several years ago, Silverton nurseryman Verl Holden stepped up to help. They scouted his property and found a spot.  Read more... (968 words, 1 image, estimated 3:52 mins reading time)

Arbor days: Tree experts weigh in on tree care following devastating storm

By Melissa Wagoner

Within hours of the ice storm horticulturist Eric Hammond began walking, covering as many miles of Silverton’s streets as he could, cataloging the trees – the ones that were damaged, the ones that were toppled and the ones that made it through relatively unscathed.

“I’m up to 3,300 different survey points and 130 different species,” Hammond said. “Fully 50 percent of what I see has got moderate to severe damage. And I’m only surveying the planted trees. The wild trees are their own thing to talk about. They were here before us and it’s sort of on us if we built a house there.”  Read more... (1516 words, estimated 6:04 mins reading time)

Santiam Hospital offers saliva test for Covid-19

By Mary Owen

Santiam Hospital introduces SalivaDirect, a less expensive, less invasive and safer way to test for COVID-19.

“It’s kind of remarkable that our little lab in Stayton, Oregon, is using this test,” said Dr. Janine VanSant, infectious disease specialist. “We are one of the few labs in the Pacific Northwest using it.”

Dr. Sarah Comstock, a molecular biologist from Corban University in Salem, got the ball rolling last April. In the spring of 2020, Comstock found herself with excess time due to few on-campus students, so she began to use her research equipment to develop an FDA EUA (emergency use authorization) test for coronavirus.  Read more... (636 words, estimated 2:33 mins reading time)

Trial by ice: Neighbors, services unite in the face of shared adversity

An old oak near St. Edward’s Church in Silverton by the February ice storm. Photo courtesy Steve Canning.

By Melissa Wagoner

When residents of the mid-Willamette Valley awoke to a world covered in a beautiful blown glass tapestry of ice on the morning of Feb. 12, they would have been hard pressed to imagine the destruction that would be unleashed only a few hours later. A night of freeing rain replaced the morning quiet with the sound of snapping trees, exploding electrical transformers and arcing power lines that set the evening sky ablaze in a lightning of blue and green.  Read more... (1483 words, 1 image, estimated 5:56 mins reading time)

Making Silverton better: Encouraging diverse voices is one step

By Melissa Wagoner

It was a happy accident when John Pattison stumbled upon the town of Silverton on Christmas Eve 2009. But it wasn’t an accident he stayed.

“My wife Kate and I both grew up in smaller towns,” Pattison explained. “We were living in Portland and felt drawn back to rural life. But we also wanted to stay close to family in Portland and Salem. Over the course of about 18 months, we looked at seemingly every small town in the Willamette Valley – or so we thought, because somehow Silverton was never on our radar.”  Read more... (1591 words, estimated 6:22 mins reading time)

Land stewardship: Mount Angel native plants white oaks on farm

Kurt Berning and Katie Doyle planting white oak seedlings on Bernging’s family farm in Mount Angel. Photo by Melissa Wagoner

By Melissa Wagoner

Welcoming the new year looked a lot different for Kurt Berning and his fiancé Katie Doyle this year. Instead of party hats and streamers, the couple awoke early, donned their rain gear and headed out into the drizzle to plant over 500 white oak tree seedlings.  Read more... (787 words, 1 image, estimated 3:09 mins reading time)

Vaccinated: Health professionals discuss their decisions and experiences

By Melissa Wagoner

When Brian Reif – a clinical nurse who works directly with COVID patients – was offered the COVID-19 vaccine as a member of the tier one medical community, he did not hesitate to roll up his sleeve, likening his participation to a patriotic duty.

“What we have achieved to create and now deliver, a novel vaccine in such a short period of time, is a testament to what we can do through collective will and when we work together,” he said.  For him it was an emotional experience. “Our efforts to fight COVID should be unifying and not divisive because we all want the same thing.”  Read more... (1034 words, estimated 4:08 mins reading time)

Fun run for John: Mount Angel family raises funds for son’s kidney transplant

Patty, John and Mike Kloft on their farm, Lonely Lane Farms – courtesy of Evelyn Shoop.

By Melissa Wagoner

When seven-year-old John Kloft told his parents he had pain in his side in May of 2020 they assumed he had appendicitis.

“We took him to his normal Physician’s Assistant, Brianna Brooks in Silverton,” John’s parents, Mike and Patty Kloft, wrote in a recent press release chronicling the family’s journey.

“She sent us for more tests because John’s symptoms seemed a little odd.”

It’s lucky she did. To everyone’s surprise, John’s appendix looked great. His kidneys, however, did not.  Read more... (565 words, 1 image, estimated 2:16 mins reading time)

Making music: Soundstream studio produces album by Silverton teen

Matt-Alex Raney – photo by Corey Christensen

By Melissa Wagoner

On Jan. 1, 2021 Matt-Alex Raney released his first album, If We’re Being Honest – 13 tracks inspired by classic country and written by Raney himself.

“I’ve never been much for talking and communicating,” 17-year-old Raney confessed, “Music really helps me put all those ideas and feelings into words and music. I can express everything I think and feel through that rather than talking.”

Produced with the help of Soundstream, a music studio located in downtown Silverton, If We’re Being Honest is the record that almost didn’t happen. In fact, Raney’s entire music career was very nearly extinguished before it even got off the ground.  Read more... (695 words, 1 image, estimated 2:47 mins reading time)

Emergencies are inevitable: So, why don’t we prepare?

Dale Kunce. Melissa Wagoner

By Melissa Wagoner

The Red Cross mantras, “disaster can strike at any time” and “disaster preparedness starts with you” are by no means new messages, yet they still go largely ignored by a large segment of the population, even as devastating hurricanes and wildfires tear across the country.
The question is – why is that?

“It’s hard to think about,” Dale Kunce, the Chief Executive Officer for the Cascades Region of the Red Cross told Our Town in a recent interview. “And a lot of people – they don’t know what the first step to take is.”  Read more... (1086 words, 1 image, estimated 4:21 mins reading time)

Gift in creativity: Artisans offer unique gift options, easy way to support local small businesses

Employee Kaitlyn Maley at Apples to Oranges, Silverton’s yarn shop. Photo by Melissa Wagoner

By Melissa Wagoner

“Artists are really struggling with the restrictions due to COVID-19,” photographer Vivienne Frankel said. “Art shows and fairs have closed; galleries are open fewer hours and people have less disposable income. As the time has passed, artists are feeling the brunt. Most of us were not eligible for small business loans being sole proprietors and also did not receive unemployment as business owners.”

There is something the community can do: purchase gifts locally this holiday season.  Read more... (2395 words, 4 images, estimated 9:35 mins reading time)

Silver Creek Fellowship packs 5,000 relief kits

Silver Creek Fellowship. Photo by Melissa Wagoner

By Melissa Wagoner

When the wildfires swept through Oregon on Labor Day, Kaiser Permanente immediately leapt into action, contacting the Red Cross and asking how the organization could help. But it wasn’t because it provides health care – though the company’s providers continued that important work throughout the days and weeks following the devastation, even while many of them were evacuated or had experienced loss themselves. Rather, it was because of Kaiser Permanente’s dedication to community care.  Read more... (572 words, 1 image, estimated 2:17 mins reading time)

Silverton Lions and Silverton Elks run Gates field kitchen as part of wildfire relief effort

Lions Club Breakfast. Photo by Ward Frederick.

By Melissa Wagoner

When Ward Frederick decided to open a field kitchen in Gates in the days following the Beachie Creek fire, he knew he could fund the venture for right around one week, tops. But after that…he wasn’t so sure.

“It was kind of like, ‘If you build it, they will come,’” he laughed, quoting the movie, Field of Dreams.

And so, focused on that initial one-week goal, Frederick contacted the Silverton Lions Club and the Silverton Elks Lodge – both of which he is a member.  Read more... (534 words, 1 image, estimated 2:08 mins reading time)

Banding together: Reflecting on community in wildfires’ wake

Mount Angel’s Magnolia Grill crew delivering food to frontline workers. Submitted Photo

By Melissa Wagoner

“Helping is easy. Being on the receiving end is difficult.”

Sheila Zervas Nielsen, a teacher at Silverton High School and resident of Gates, knows what she is talking about.

She, along with her husband Steve, also a Silver Falls School District employee, and their three sons, evacuated from their home on Sept. 7 escaping wildfires whipped up by a once-in-a-century windstorm that was racing through the Santiam Canyon. Then they began the process of volunteering wherever they could in order to save the homes of others.  Read more... (2954 words, 2 images, estimated 11:49 mins reading time)