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Penalty-free: Mt. Angel Public Library eliminates overdue fines

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel Public Library has become the latest book lender to eliminate overdue fines in an effort to make borrowing easier and more accessible.

The Mt. Angel City Council voted May 2 to discontinue library fines following a recommendation from Library Director Jackie Mills, who said fines have long been impractical and unfair to those of fewer means.

“We’re penalizing people just for being forgetful, and we’re also kind of depriving the people who need us the most,” she said.  Read more... (497 words, estimated 1:59 mins reading time)

Rights rally – Reproductive rights supporters hold impromptu rally in Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

When Christie Diacetis learned of the possibility that Roe v. Wade was under threat of being overturned, she decided to speak out. In the landmark 1973 Supreme Court case the justices ruled the Constitution protects a woman’s right to have an abortion without excessive government restriction.

“I just got fired up,” Diacetis recalled.  The leaked draft opinion to overturn Roe written by Justice Samuel Alito was published May 2, and from that moment on the media has been awash in speculation on what will happen when the court’s final opinion is released this spring.    Read more... (457 words, 1 image, estimated 1:50 mins reading time)

ODOT all-in on transportation electrification

The Oregon Department of Transportation is committing $100 million over the next five years to build out Oregon’s public electric vehicle charging network on several major road corridors, and to increase access for all to EV charging in communities throughout the state.

The funding comes from a mix of federal and state sources and was approved by the Oregon Transportation Commission March 30.

About two-thirds of the funding – $52 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill plus a required 20% match – must be spent on EV charging infrastructure along “Alternative Fuel Corridors,” as per guidance from the Federal Highway Administration.  Read more... (261 words, estimated 1:03 mins reading time)

Silverton initiates new water use protocols

By James Day

The City of Silverton has put in place a new water use policy, which automatically kicked in May 1 with the lowest level of alert.

The new policy was approved by the City Council at its March 7 meeting and is replacing one approved in 2016.

The new policy features five levels of alert: low, mild, moderate, high and extreme. For each level, which requires City Council action to implement, the goal of the reduction in demand rises, from 5% for low to 30% for high. An extreme alert will trigger the city’s emergency operations plan.  Read more... (283 words, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

Pudding River project – Bridge work to close Hazelgreen access in 2024

By James Day

Silverton-area residents who commute in and out of the Salem-Keizer area will be facing another detour.

Marion County will be replacing the bridge over the Pudding River on Hazelgreen Road NE near Torvend Road.

Pudding River bridge near the intersection of Hazelgreen Road and Torvend Road. Marion County will replace the outdated bridge, with construction scheduled to begin in early 2024.

The good news is that project planning is just beginning and that construction is not scheduled to begin until 2024. The bad news is that when the closure comes it likely will be for ten months.  Read more... (426 words, 1 image, estimated 1:42 mins reading time)

New duties – Faith Rockenstein takes reins at Gordon House

By James Day

For Faith Rockenstein, it was love at first sight. The accomplished artist, arts educator and long-time museum manager, who has traveled widely in the U.S and abroad, was blown away a couple of years ago when she entered Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge.

“I was just overwhelmed,” she said.

Faith Rockenstein, general manager, outside of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Gordon House adjacent to the Oregon Garden.

Rockenstein decided to stay in Oregon and eventually found her way to Silverton. Once in town she hooked up with the Silverton Art Association, where she teaches, shows and serves on the board.  Read more... (658 words, 1 image, estimated 2:38 mins reading time)

SHS grad night party in need of help

Each spring the Silver Fox Foundation hosts an all-night celebration for that year’s senior class. 

“The party is always the night of graduation,” long-time organizer Erica Rumpca said. “Kids will load buses at 10 p.m. and we will transport them to the party returning the following morning at 6 a.m.”

Originally created as a way to keep drugs and alcohol out of the hands of celebrating teens in 1986, the party has – over the last 36 years – come to mean far more to those who attend.   Read more... (312 words, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Lawrence J. Hall (June 11, 1935 – April 13, 2022)

Lawrence J. Hall passed away on April 13, 2022, at the age of 86. After several months of declining health, Larry died peacefully at home with his youngest son Timothy at his side.

Larry, as he was known by his friends, was born in Portland, Oregon on June 11, 1935. The younger of two sons, he grew up in Hillsboro, Oregon. 

He served in the US Army as a mechanic in Germany from 1958 to 1961. After getting married in December of 1962, Larry finished law school at Lewis & Clark.  Read more... (174 words, estimated 42 secs reading time)

Snellings celebrate 50 years together

California boy steals Ohio farm girl’s heart after some intense pursuing. 50-plus years later their friends and family are celebrating the marriage of Le and Ann (Gregg) Snelling at their home on May 21 with a drop-in reception from 1-4 p.m. 

They met at Cincinnati Bible College and wed in 1972 at Palmyra Church of Christ in Fredericktown, Ohio. Graduating in 1974, they returned to Le’s hometown of Escondido, California. Le worked for his dad and later began his own cabinet shop, Snelling Wood Specialties, in 1979. Ann taught piano lessons and worked in the music department at Palomar College. Their hearts rejoiced in 1980 with the adoption of their two boys, Doug and David.   Read more... (193 words, 2 images, estimated 46 secs reading time)

Lions Club sends $5,000 for Ukrainian relief

In April, the Silverton Lions Club members voted to send $5,000 in humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian people through Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF). It is the largest donation the club has ever made to any cause. Silverton Lions can donate to causes in the community and worldwide through fundraisers such as the fireworks booth, Harvest Breakfast and holiday See’s candy sales.

Anyone interested in donating to Ukraine relief can send checks to the Silverton Lions Club, with a notation for LCIF Refugee and Displaced Persons Fund. All donations are passed directly to LCIF. Donations are tax deductible.The Silverton Lions Club address is P.O. Box 552  Silverton, OR 97381.

Final day for mail-in ballots May 17

A new law in Oregon known as the “postmark rule” says that any ballot postmarked by Election Day is considered on time even if it arrives at elections offices up to 7 days after the election.  Voters may put their ballots in the mail as late as Election Day if their mail is collected and postmarked on that day. That means ballots mailed in for the 2022 Primary Election must be postmarked on or before May 17 to be counted.  Read more... (146 words, estimated 35 secs reading time)

Equipment ‘petting zoo’ at May 19 Silverton fair

May 15-21 is National Public Works Week and the City of Silverton is celebrating by holding a free, interactive, hands-on fair at Coolidge-McClaine Park May 19, noon to 4 p.m. 

Participants will get a chance to check out a sander, street sweeper, snowplow and backhoe up close, look through a sewer camera, learn how water lines are connected plus see the inside of a fire hydrant.

Silverton Public Works Department will offer hands-on demonstrations, heavy equipment “petting zoo”, games, and prizes. All ages welcome. The event will be held rain or shine. Heavy equipment display will be at the end of the parking lot; interactive displays will be under the pavilion.

Zenith Women’s Club holds Bunko fundraiser

Those 21 or older are invited to a fun, inexpensive evening of Bunko at the Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. on May 28, beginning at 7 p.m. 

The fundraiser is organized by the GFWC Silverton Zenith Women’s Club. All proceeds benefit Silverton community projects which include the Tree of Giving, high school scholarships, and layettes for the Silverton Hospital Birthing Center. Tickets, $15, must be purchased by May 24 from any Zenith member, or at the Silverton Chamber of Commerce office or the Elks Lodge. You do not need to be a member of Zenith or the Elks Lodge to attend. 

Foxes win titles – Girls golf wins tourney, girls tennis finishes undefeated

The Silverton High girls golf team has claimed its first Mid-Willamette Conference championship since 1980.

The Foxes used a strong second-day showing to win by 29 strokes in the two-day event May 2-3 at Trysting Tree Golf Course in Corvallis.

“We only had a 7-stroke lead going into day number two so to win by 29 was a great reward for the girls,” coach Hank Ulven told Our Town. “Really proud of them all turning in great rounds and proud that a lot of coaches always told me their kids enjoyed golfing with my kids. They’re all great golfers and phenomenal people, I’m glad in golf you get an opportunity to show both.”  Read more... (833 words, 2 images, estimated 3:20 mins reading time)

New momentum – Runners club celebrates 40th anniversary

By James Day

The Silverton Runners Club is turning 40, and organizers are planning some new events to boost participation in the club, which works to support running programs in Silverton and Mount Angel.

The club, which was organized in 1982 by Silverton resident Amy Castle, is taking over management of the 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer runs associated with the Mount Angel Oktoberfest. This year’s runs will be held Sunday, Sept. 18, and the 10K course has been tweaked to include the grueling test of the hill that leads to the Mount Angel Abbey. Proceeds from the races will benefit club programs, including scholarships to help lower-income runners participate.  Read more... (501 words, 1 image, estimated 2:00 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Three originals – Rest in peace, friends

When I first conceived the idea for this column, many years ago, it was first and foremost centered on talking about people – living, dying, laughing, crying, and doing the things they do. Today, it is about people dying and the living they did.  Read more... (674 words, 1 image, estimated 2:42 mins reading time)

New tenant – Tillamook Country Smoker moving into former BrucePac facility

By James Day

A new meat processing company will be taking over the BrucePac facility on North First Street in Silverton.

Tillamook Country Smoker will be starting operations in the facility, perhaps as soon as this summer.

The move constitutes an expansion for Tillamook Country Smoker, president Geordie Mosbarger told Our Town. The privately held jerky and meat snacks processor is based in Bay City in Tillamook County while also operating a facility in Beaverton.

“We’re continuing to gain traction as a company,” Mosbarger said of the decision to expand. ”We have a good strategy and continue to grow.”  Read more... (426 words, 1 image, estimated 1:42 mins reading time)

Hangin’ out – The Den offers food carts, pavilion

By Melissa Wagoner

As a real estate developer, Ben Johnston’s goal isn’t just to build buildings, it’s to create spaces for the community to gather.

Which is why, when he was given the opportunity to refurbish the building that once housed the Silverton Flower Shop in the heart of downtown, he knew just what he wanted to do.

Downtown Silverton strollers check out The Den, a new food cart pod next to the Silverton Bakery on Water Street. Melissa Wagoner Downtown Silverton strollers check out The Den, a new food cart pod next to the Silverton Bakery on Water Street.   Read more... (285 words, 1 image, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

Mt. Angel recognizes Scott Stokley with first Community Impact Award

By James Day

Scott Stokley, a 37-year resident of Mount Angel is a local Realtor who also owns Touch of Bavaria, Angel Mountain Christmas and is about to open a new eatery in town, Lou’s Kitchen.

His dizzying schedule also includes tons of outreach for the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce, for whom he is a passionate supporter of local businesses and the community as a whole.

Scott Stokley

He helped put together a merchants group for the chamber, assisted in organizing “The Next Friday” event and is helping to start a chamber ambassadors group. He also played a key role in the massive benefit put on at the Festhalle to assist businesses affected by the October fire.  Read more... (319 words, 1 image, estimated 1:17 mins reading time)

Chief Mark Daniel honored by chamber for Distinguished Service

By Stephen Floyd

Police Chief Mark Daniel said he was shocked when the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce arrived at City Hall to tell him he was being presented with the Distinguished Service Award.

Daniel, who also serves in a dual role as interim city manager, said he didn’t feel deserving, but the chamber insisted and he felt honored.

“This is a very close-knit community, and when they recognize people they truly mean it,” he said.  Read more... (314 words, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

Borschowa family volunteerism earns Helping Hands Award

By Stephen Floyd

The contributions of Joe Borschowa and his family have been both highly visible and subtle. The local veteran and business owner has been heavily involved with the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce, the American Legion and other groups, but hasn’t sought public recognition.

Yet if you’ve ever admired the American flags on display throughout town during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, or enjoyed the Fourth of July parade, you’ve seen the fruits of Borschowa’s volunteerism. He and his family are also heavily involved in the bautiful flower baskets downtown during the summer.  Read more... (155 words, estimated 37 secs reading time)

Chamber awards presented during ‘The Next Friday’ May 13

The Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce is trying a new approach to its annual community awards. Mt. Angel Honors will be held in conjunction with The Next Friday, a monthly event showcasing businesses downtown. Each of the four honorees will stand with a partnering business. Residents are invited to meet and chat with honorees while touring the event. The chamber will make official presentations at the following times on May 13:

6 p.m., Mt. Angel Mercantile, 495 E. College St., Distinguished Service Award presented to Chief Mark Daniel

6:20 p.m., Lou’s Kitchen, 230 E. Charles St., Community Impact Award presented to Scott Stokley  Read more... (149 words, estimated 36 secs reading time)

Mt. Angel Sausage Co. honored with Innovative Business Award

By Stephen Floyd

When COVID-19 lockdowns began in 2020, the restaurant industry took a massive blow, and those who wished to survive had to adapt.

Mt. Angel Sausage Co. rose to the occasion and – in addition to take-out orders and outdoor seating – owner Jim Hoke took an international food display that occupied a corner of their waiting area and expanded it to a European Market with its own storefront. The move was an almost-immediate success, keeping the business afloat and providing a unique shopping experience that attracted both locals and visitors.  Read more... (193 words, estimated 46 secs reading time)

At Easel – Instructional art studio, event space opens in Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

When Michelle Isaksen was invited to a Paint Party five years ago she almost didn’t go.

“I thought, ‘I don’t even draw,’” she recalled. “I’d never painted or even sketched.”

Thankfully, her husband convinced her to attend.

“He basically pushed me out the door,” Isaksen laughed. “But in the end, I had a piece of art that I didn’t hate.”

She also had a new love for painting that she couldn’t wait to share with others.

A paint party hosted by At Easel.  Read more... (378 words, 1 image, estimated 1:31 mins reading time)

Hands-on knowledge – Repair Fair offers free ‘fixberts’ – and training

By Melissa Wagoner

In 2019 Christy Davis attended a Repair Fair – an event put on by Marion County Environmental Services (MCES) in Salem that encouraged community members to bring broken items – those in danger of being thrown out –  in order to have them repaired by an expert.

“What I saw at the Repair Fair was awesome,” Davis recalled. “There were people in all of the different areas getting bikes fixed, appliances diagnosed, beads on a necklace restrung, holes patched in their pants. There was a lot of laughter and buzz and they were well organized.”  Read more... (704 words, 2 images, estimated 2:49 mins reading time)

Electric vehicles – Car owners share personal benefits of making the switch

By Melissa Wagoner

With the cost of gas soaring to well over $4 a gallon, more people than ever are considering an electric vehicle (EV) which, according to David Deckelmann – owner of a Nissan Leaf since 2019 – is a very good thing.

“I will always have a gas car because I love vintage cars,” Deckelmann, a self-proclaimed car enthusiast, said. Adding, “[And gas-powered vehicles] are an incredible feat. But it’s done. You knew it was real when all the major manufacturers got into it.”  Read more... (877 words, 1 image, estimated 3:30 mins reading time)

Not So Heaven Sent – The Invasive Nature of the ‘Tree of Heaven’

By Melissa Wagoner

When Pam Russell and her husband purchased their home in Silverton in May 2021, they were excited to have a place of their own for the first time in 15 years. Newly retired empty-nesters, the couple thought they might take up gardening on the small plot of land. That’s when they discovered an interloper that just would not go away – the tree of heaven.

Ailanthus or the “tree of heaven.” © villi45 / 123rf.com

“The neighbors have a tree that was damaged in the ice storm,” she said of the first time the parent tree caught her eye.   Read more... (640 words, 2 images, estimated 2:34 mins reading time)

Your Garden – Herbs

Need a flavor boost in your cooking without adding salt? Try growing favorite herbs in your garden, a porch container or in a sunny window. Many herbs, like rosemary and thyme, are perennials that will thrive in our “Mediterranean” climate. Annual herbs, like basil and dill, grow and bloom in one season then die, and are often cultivated indoors in the winter. Biennial herbs, like parsley, bloom their second year and may reseed themselves. Parsley is the most-grown herb, used mostly as an edible garnish.  Read more... (497 words, 1 image, estimated 1:59 mins reading time)

OSU Gardener’s May Chores

Oregon State University Extension Service encourages sustainable gardening practices. Always identify and monitor problems before acting. First, consider cultural controls; then physical, biological and chemical controls (which include insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, botanical insecticides, organic and synthetic pesticides). Always consider the least-toxic approach first.

Recommendations in this calendar are applicable to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. 

PLAN & PREPARE

Cabbage worm nibbling on kale. © digihelion / 123rf.com

Ladybug hunting aphids. © sandermeertinsphotography / 123rf.com

Prepare and prime irrigation system for summer. 

Place pheromone traps in apple trees to detect presence of codling moth. Plan a control program of sprays, baits, or predators if found.  Read more... (545 words, 2 images, estimated 2:11 mins reading time)

Reimagining care – Legacy appoints a Chief Medical Officer for Silverton

By Brenna Wiegand

Christopher Thoming, MD, MBA, has been selected to serve as the vice president and chief medical officer for Legacy Silverton Medical Center. Dr. Thoming will work closely with Legacy Silverton Medical Center President Jonathan Avery and Chief Nursing Officer Karen Brady to promote safe, high-quality care and clinical operations and contribute to the medical center and service area’s strategy, growth, and operations.

Dr. Christopher Thoming

Legacy has instituted chief medical officer positions at all its hospitals. Under the purview of Legacy Health Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Seth Podolsky, Thoming is the chief medical officer for Legacy Silverton Medical Center and Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center.  Read more... (573 words, 1 image, estimated 2:18 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Douglas ‘Chet’ Bunting (June 16, 1953 – April 4, 2022)

Douglas “Chet” Bunting was born on June 16, 1953 to Bill and Lavona Bunting. Doug’s youthful love was playing basketball. He played for both Silverton High and Chemeketa Community College, where he broke single-game scoring records for both schools.

He received a teaching degree from OCE but spent most of his life working as a concrete finisher for Manning Concrete until the age of 67.

Doug had a great love for sports. He spent time hunting, fishing, playing guitar, shuffleboard and walking around his favorite store, Bi-Mart.  Read more... (184 words, 1 image, estimated 44 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Mark Allen Treat (1954 – 2022)

Mark Allen Treat, 67, passed away April 12, 2022, at Salem Health Hospital of cancer. 

Born in Pasadena, California in 1954 to Irwin and Dortha Treat.  Graduated from Duarte High School in California, settling in Silverton, Oregon in 1979. 

Mark started his own cable splicing business for many years then worked for Frontier until retirement.  Mark enjoyed fishing, crabbing, hiking, and most recently travel trailer camping with girlfriend, Brigitte Johnson. Mark is survived by sister, Susan Sommerville; two daughters; a granddaughter and a great granddaughter.       

In Memoriam: Christopher Albert May (May 20, 1977 – April 14, 2022)

Christopher Albert May was born May 20, 1977 in Klamath Falls, Oregon to Stephen and Sheryl (Sherry) May, but soon left Klamath Falls to head north to Eugene for three years and then on to Silverton, Oregon where he was a part of the Silverton High graduating class of 1995.

He spent the next years exploring what he wanted to do with his life. He attended Santa Rose Junior College where he played water polo for the school and was in the choir, which gave him the opportunity to travel to Europe with a group in the summer. He then went to Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon to study firefighting and while there enjoyed other things like ballroom and swing dancing competition. While in Corvallis, he became a firefighter before moving into wildland firefighting for several years.   Read more... (329 words, 1 image, estimated 1:19 mins reading time)

Casting a long shadow – Community members share experiences after two years of COVID

By Melissa Wagoner

It’s been two years since the COVID-19 pandemic began. And while we still have not reached the “end” (wherever that may be) Our Town asked readers to describe what the pandemic era been.

“My best friend’s marriage fell apart after 35 years…” Yvette Marty recalled. “Without all of her activities, not seeing her children and grandchildren… she took her life… I haven’t seen family in more than two years. I work from home and no longer see coworkers. For the first time in my life, I have been dealing with my own mental and physical health issues. I have felt more lonely than ever before. Confidence is more shaky and anxiety is high. Cost of living has increased making finances tighter and now with the war, its worse than ever. People are more angry, full of hate, and stressed to the limits. I pray that the world returns back to some form of normalcy.”   Read more... (1138 words, estimated 4:33 mins reading time)

Datebook: May 2022

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield 50 & older. 503-873-3093

Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton. Weekly Events

Monday

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

Bridge, 10 a.m., Silverton Senior Center.

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tues. – Sat. 503-845-6998

Silverton Meals on Wheels, 11:30 a.m. Delivery only. $3 donation suggested. Monday – Friday. Carol, 503-873-6906.  Read more... (2526 words, estimated 10:06 mins reading time)

Counterpoint: Grasses provide both aesthetic and practical benefits

An article in the April 1 issue of Our Town [specifically in Your Garden] didn’t have a lot of good things to say about lawns. While we believe the author is entitled to her opinion, as grass seed growers in the area we are proud of the crop we produce and would like to point out some of the many benefits lawns provide.

First off, the article started by acknowledging a lush, green lawn looks beautiful and feels fabulous underfoot and can serve a purpose as a backdrop for picnics, sporting events or just lounging in the sun.  Read more... (451 words, estimated 1:48 mins reading time)

Equestrian stars – Silverton heads to state off strong district finish

The Silverton High equestrian squad came within one point of claiming a team win in the third North Valley district competition of the season.

The Foxes scored 703 points in the April 7-10 Oregon High School Equestrian Teams (OHSET) event at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem. Canby won the large team competition with 704.

Teams from all eight OHSET districts are now pointing toward the May 12-15 state championships at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond.

Silverton brought home blue ribbons in four individual events and three team competitions in the third meet.   Read more... (505 words, 1 image, estimated 2:01 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: May 2022 – Home contests only

Monday, May 2

Softball

4:20 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam

5 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Baseball

4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam

Tuesday, May 3

Boys Tennis

4 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Girls Tennis

4 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Wednesday, May 4

Baseball

5 p.m. Silverton vs Crescent Valley

Boys Tennis

4 p.m. Silverton vs Stayton

Softball

4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Central Linn

Thursday, May 5

Baseball

4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam

Monday, May 9

Baseball

4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Culver

5 p.m. Silverton vs Lebanon  Read more... (187 words, estimated 45 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Finally ready – Nadine’s gift

“I’m ready to die,” she said, turning her head toward the apartment window.

I looked at my mother-in-law, Nadine Stack, not knowing what to say. This was three years ago, and at age 97 she was in good health and still able to get around. She was even a member of the beanbag baseball team at Mount Angel Towers, the assisted living apartments where she lived.

“I’m just ready,” she said. “I’ve had a good life.”  Read more... (757 words, 2 images, estimated 3:02 mins reading time)

Relief effort – Silverton pastor returns from Ukraine mission

By James Day

Silverton pastor Kurt Barnes is back from a week-long Ukrainian relief effort in Poland. He returned tired, inspired and eager to continue to help.

Poland has become ground zero for refugees from the conflict in Ukraine, and Barnes, a 39-year-old Silverton native, spent March 14-21 in Poland working with churches and relief agencies to tackle what has been an almost immeasurable task: absorbing and assisting more than 2 million refugees.

Kurt Barnes, pastor of the Silver Creek Fellowship, discusses his recent Ukraine relief trip to Poland in an interview in the office of his Silverton church.  Read more... (594 words, 2 images, estimated 2:23 mins reading time)

Free sausage lunch surprise for volunteer crew at Detroit Community Center construction site

Volunteers working to finish the Detroit Lake Community Center were recently treated to a free lunch by local businesses as the project nears completion.

Construction on the new community center started a year ago after the original building was destroyed during wildfires in 2020. The Santiam Rebuild Coalition has been collecting donations of labor and resources for the project through the Detroit Lake Foundation.The foundation said a grand re-opening will be announced soon.

On March 25, DeSantis Landscapes, of Salem, trucked in sausages donated by Mt. Angel Sausage Co. and grilled them on-site for workers.  Read more... (194 words, 1 image, estimated 47 secs reading time)

Building momentum: Silverton Habitat project gets a federal boost

By James Day

Efforts to put together an ambitious 18-home Habitat for Humanity project in Silverton are receiving a $1 million windfall from the federal government.

This is the almost-completed first home in what eventually will be an 18-home Habitat for Humanity development off of Pine Street in Silverton.

The funds, part of a $1.5 trillion spending package signed by President Joe Biden last month, were secured by Oregon’s two U.S. senators, Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley. North Willamette Valley Habitat for Humanity is scheduled to receive the funds later this spring.  Read more... (722 words, 1 image, estimated 2:53 mins reading time)

Public defender challenges Marion County District Attorney

Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson is being challenged by a public defender for her role as top prosecutor.

Spencer Todd, of Salem, filed for the May 17 primary to unseat Clarkson, also of Salem, who was first elected DA in 2018 while running unopposed.

Because only two candidates filed for the non-partisan office, they will automatically move on to the Nov. 8 general election.

Todd has served as a court-appointed lawyer since graduating from Willamette University College of Law in 2013, first in Polk County and then in Marion County starting in 2015. Beforehand he worked as a clerk with the Marion County Circuit Court and with private defenders.  Read more... (153 words, estimated 37 secs reading time)

Two Democrats challenge incumbent county commissioners

By Stephen Floyd

Two political newcomers are running for Marion County Commissioner as Democratic challengers to the Republican incumbents.

Andrew Dennis (D-Salem) and Mark Wigg (D-Salem) will square off against incumbent commissioners Kevin Cameron (R-Detroit) and Colm Willis (R-Stayton). Each candidate was the sole individual to file for their party’s nomination for each position, so they will automatically proceed from the May 17 primary to the Nov. 8 general election.  Read more... (362 words, estimated 1:27 mins reading time)

All-abilities park plan moves forward

By James Day 

A Silverton Rotary proposal to build an “all-abilities” playground in Old Mill Park near the Silverton Community Pool has won the approval of the City Council.

Councilors at their April 4 meeting approved the site after hearing a report from Rotary that featured renderings and charts on the concepts that they hope the park will include.

The playground will feature multiple wheelchair-accessible amenities, strength-building components and musical elements. It aims to foster use by as broad a group of users as possible.  Read more... (260 words, 1 image, estimated 1:02 mins reading time)

SFSD hires new principal

The Silver Falls School District has hired an administrator from the Salem-Keizer School District to become the new principal for Robert Frost School. Sarah Grimmer, current co-principal at Scott Elementary School, in Salem, was hired by the Silver Falls School Board April 11, filling a vacancy left after Principal Mandy Pack accepted a job with a different district.

Grimmer was chosen after a vetting process that included multiple interviews with district leadership and town hall sessions with community and staff.  Read more... (192 words, estimated 46 secs reading time)

Tripped up – Elks settle personal injury lawsuit

By Stephen Floyd

A $975,000 personal injury lawsuit against the Silverton Elks has been dismissed after the parties settled out of court two weeks before trial.

The suit was filed Dec. 31, 2019, by Salem resident Patty Wolford, 88, for an incident in 2018 when she fell and suffered serious injuries during an event at the Elks Lodge.

A trial was scheduled for April 26, but the court was notified that Wolford and the defendants had settled for an undisclosed sum. The suit was dismissed April 8.  Read more... (414 words, estimated 1:39 mins reading time)

Robot champs – Youngsters headed to international event

By James Day

Four young robot creators from Silverton will be heading to Texas next month to participate in an international event.

Derek Schaefer, 11, of Butte Creek Elementary School; Aiden Adams, 10, of Robert Frost Elementary School; John Lashley, 9, of the Silvies River Charter School; and Noah Stoneking of Sacred Heart School in Gervais, will be in Dallas, Texas from May 10-12 for the VEX Robotics World Championships.

The Think Robotics club, which is governed by Marion County 4-H, qualified for the international event with their performance at the Oregon state tournament in February in Salem.  Read more... (378 words, 1 image, estimated 1:31 mins reading time)

Family crafted – Paradis Vineyards opens on-site tasting room

By Melissa Wagoner

It’s been 32 years since Pete and Donna Paradis planted their first block of Pinot gris vines in what would eventually become the Paradis Vineyards. It is only now – with the opening of a newly built tasting room – that they realize they are truly in the business of wine.

The interior of the new on-site tasting room at Paradis Vineyards

“It’s a leap. It’s a big leap,” Tim Paradis said. He and his brother, Pierre, took over the majority of the day-to-day operations of the vineyard in 2017.   Read more... (540 words, 2 images, estimated 2:10 mins reading time)

Property next to Roth set for possible sale

The large area of gravel lots north of the Roth’s grocery store in Silverton is up for sale, a real estate source close to the transaction told Our Town.

The 1.1 acres of property, which exists in two tax lots, was donated by Roth’s to the Salem Foundation a few months ago, said the source, who requested anonymity because of the privacy required for negotiations on a potential sale,

The source indicated that there is a “pending sale” of the property but did not identify the potential buyer. No information was available on how the buyer might develop the property, which is zoned for commercial use.  Read more... (111 words, 1 image, estimated 27 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Gela Mae Koester (June 21, 1931 – March 13, 2022)

Gela Mae (Cort) Koester was born on June 21, 1931 in Marysville, Washington. She spent her carefree childhood days there before relocating to Long Beach, California in her teens. 

After graduating, she married her high school sweetheart, Al Koester. Their marriage lasted 72 years until her death on March 13, 2022. 

The couple’s three daughters, Angela Phillips, Denise Winter, and Cherie Thorn, along with their father, were by her side as she peacefully passed. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Inge, Cameron, Tyler and Devon. Her grandson, Zachary, preceded her in death. She had seven great grandchildren, four great great grandchildren, and her constant canine companion, “Buster.”   Read more... (260 words, 1 image, estimated 1:02 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Daniel Arthur Woodall (Jan. 28, 1956 – March 6, 2022)

Dan Woodall was born to Jack and Eleanor Woodall in McMinnville, Oregon. He was one of nine children. He  graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1974, then served four years in the Army. He loved to talk about being stationed on the East Coast and in Germany. He died in Silverton, Oregon on March 6, 2022, of complications from congestive heart failure.

He married Terry McCurdy in August of 1991. They raised three sons in Silverton and Scotts Mills. He was an active leader in Boy Scout Troop 485, helping each of his sons, and many others, to become Eagle Scouts. One of his last wishes was to have Eagle Scouts carry his casket.  Read more... (408 words, estimated 1:38 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Glenna Payzant Martin (Dec. 17, 1936 – March 7, 2022)

Glenna B. Payzant Martin passed away on March 7, 2022. Born in Sydney, Nebraska on Dec. 17, 1936, she moved to Oregon with her parents Leverett and Ethel Payzant and grandparents William and Kate when she was one. 

She attended Molalla High School and graduated in 1954. 

She is survived by her three siblings Wayne, Linda, and Dan; two of her sons, Lee and Delane; her stepdaughter, Renee; two step granddaughters; four grandsons; and five great grandchildren. Her son,  Doug, preceded her in death).  Read more... (127 words, 1 image, estimated 30 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Michael Provonsha (June 4, 1937 – April 4, 2022)

Michael Arwin Provonsha passed away peacefully on April 4, 2022. Mike was born in Provo, Utah on June 4, 1937 to Merrill and Lois Provonsha.

He later moved to Hayward, California with his family where he married Diane Pixley, his wife of 47 years.

Mike had a talent for everything mechanical. While working at Hunts Foods in Hayward his talent was soon recognized and he was made a millwright then later a supervisor. In 1971, he moved his family to Silverton, Oregon when he accepted an opportunity as a millwright at Birds Eye Foods in Woodburn, Oregon. Mike enjoyed gardening and farming and had a special appreciation for raising livestock.  Read more... (139 words, 1 image, estimated 33 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Troy A. McNeeley (May 24, 1966 – March 2, 2022)

Troy Anthony McNeeley of Molalla, Ore., passed away March 2, 2022. He was 55.

He was born May 24, 1966, in Payson, Arizona to Lawrence McNeeley and Twyla Trute, one of ten children.

After serving in the Army, Troy built a career as a building official, serving multiple cities in Oregon. He loved his job and gave it his all, making many friends along the way.

Troy loved to cook, best known for his chicken enchiladas, and always made enough for a crowd.

He was an avid football and golf fan, fished whenever he got the chance, and loved cats and Disney movies.   Read more... (173 words, 1 image, estimated 42 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Edna Jean Smelser (April 11, 1980 – March 30, 2022)

Edna Jean Smelser, resident of Silverton, Oregon, and originally from Casper, Wyoming died Peacefully at home on March 30, 2022.

A Celebration of Life and Birthday Celebration was held on April 10 via Zoom. Details are on her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/edna.cardenas.7

Those who shared the joy of being in Edna’s life included her husband, Karl; her three children, Jasper Jones of Wyoming, Tyrell Anthony of Iwoa, Justin Robbins of Oregon; and second mother to her dear friends’ daughter, Katalina Arellano.  Read more... (305 words, 1 image, estimated 1:13 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Sandra R. Patterson (Aug. 17, 1937 – March 12, 2022)

Sandra Patterson of Silverton passed away March 12, 2022 at the age of 84 from congestive heart failure. Her final days were spent at home, surrounded by the love of family and friends and her beloved pets.

Sandi was born in Biddeford, Maine to Catherine (Arnold) and Meredith Littlefield. She was the eldest of three daughters and grew up in Kennebunk. In her early teens she moved to central California with an aunt and uncle, where she completed high school and went on to earn an Associates degree in Art at UC Davis.  Read more... (566 words, 2 images, estimated 2:16 mins reading time)

Track veterans – Nearly 50 years of coaching experience at JFK, Silverton

It’s spring. It’s raining. And if you drive anywhere near the tracks at Silverton and Kennedy you will see dozens of athletes running and jumping and throwing things.

Last week I saw a half dozen Foxes runners trying to cross Oak Street on Second Street at rush hour. Brave lads.

And you also know that those activities, as well as with cross country in the fall, are taking place under the veteran supervision of coaches Erik Cross of Silverton and Kennedy’s Steve Ritchie. Cross has been coaching the Foxes for 25 years, a milestone that Ritchie will reach next season.  Read more... (1366 words, 1 image, estimated 5:28 mins reading time)

Coaching changes – Foxes have key openings to fill

By James Day

In the midst of one of its most successful sports seasons ever Silverton High finds itself posting a series of help wanted signs.

The good news is that Athletic Director James Rise and school administration already have filled one slot. Josh Craig, who led the football program to a 41-11 record in five years and last fall’s Class 5A title before leaving for family reasons, has been replaced by Silverton-area resident Dan Lever, who led Class 6A Tualatin to a second place finish at state.  Read more... (736 words, estimated 2:57 mins reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: Passcode predicament – Lessons learned the (almost) hard way

Sometimes the best life lessons happen when things take a turn for the worst. That’s what happened last month when I forgot to charge my cell phone before driving my daughter to a gymnastics meet in Hillsboro. 

I initially believed my dying phone was just a minor inconvenience. I turned on the power saving option, minimized its use and downplayed the fact that I’d also forgotten to bring along a charging cord.

That, it turned out, was challenge #1.   Read more... (1119 words, 1 image, estimated 4:29 mins reading time)

An afternoon of music – Jon Deshler brings live performances back to Mount Angel venue

By Brenna Wiegand

Jon Deshler, jazz trumpet player, globally published photographer and inspiring teacher, feels he has a lot to give.

The purchase of Mt. Angel Theater & Studio gives him a place to do so.

Built in 1912 as a silent movie theater, the 2,900-square-foot space at 220 E. Charles St., has been owned by Stu Rasmussen since 1982. Prior to his death in November, Rasmussen expressed his desire that friend and creative collaborator Jon Deshler take over the theater and video production studio and continue developing its potential into the future.  Read more... (964 words, 1 image, estimated 3:51 mins reading time)

Back on the ballot – Brentano enters Marion County treasurer race

By Stephen Floyd

Former Sublimity Mayor and Marion County Commissioner Sam Brentano is coming out of political retirement to run for Marion County Treasurer with an eye to merge the office with the county Finance Department.

Brentano filed unopposed for the Republican nomination for the May 17 primary, with the office itself to be decided during the Nov. 8 general election. Unaffiliated candidates have until Aug. 30 to file for Nov. 8.

Incumbent Treasurer Laurie Steele said she is retiring after 19 years in office and is looking forward to time spent with her husband and traveling. She said Marion County has been “a wonderful place to work” and she will miss her colleagues.  Read more... (702 words, estimated 2:48 mins reading time)

Public defender challenges Marion County DA

By Stephen Floyd

Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson is being challenged by a public defender for the role as top prosecutor.

Spencer Todd, of Salem, filed for the May 17 primary to unseat Clarkson, also of Salem. She was first elected DA in 2018 while running unopposed.

Because only two candidates filed for the non-partisan office, they will automatically move on to the Nov. 8 general election ballot.

Todd has served as a court-appointed lawyer since graduating from Willamette University College of Law in 2013, first in Polk County and then in Marion County starting in 2015. Previously, he worked as a clerk with the Marion County Circuit Court and with private defenders.  Read more... (156 words, estimated 37 secs reading time)

STEAM – Mt. Angel Public Library invites all to check out the possibilities

By Melissa Wagoner

“I don’t know the exact statistics, but I do know that the majority of well-paying jobs in the future will be in STEM,” Jackie Mills, Director of the Mt. Angel Public Library for the past four years, said of the need for more science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. 

“Anything the library and the community can do to prepare and support our kids in seeing themselves in these roles, to envision STEM jobs as possibilities, is investing in our most precious resource – our children – and investing in our economic future.”   Read more... (762 words, 1 image, estimated 3:03 mins reading time)

Removing Lawns – The how and the why

By Melissa Wagoner

A lush, green lawn looks beautiful, feels fabulous under foot and can serve a real purpose as the backdrop for picnics, sporting events or just lounging in the sun. But it can also have some real drawbacks. 

“An irrigated, one or two species, mowed green lawn, that mimics a golf course is an ecological disaster,” Horticulturist Eric Hammond said. “It blocks most animals beside us from using it – there isn’t any food there – and most of us dump tons of poison and chemical fertilizer on it to keep it alive. Here in the [Pacific Northwest] we have to use a ton of water to keep it green all summer, water we do not have. It’s crazy.”  Read more... (1170 words, estimated 4:41 mins reading time)

OSU Gardener’s April Chores

Oregon State University Extension Service encourages sustainable gardening practices. Practice preventive pest management rather than reactive pest control. Identify and monitor problems before acting, and opt for the least toxic approach. Conserve biological control agents such as predators and the parasitoids that feed on insect pests.

Planning

Write in your garden journal throughout the growing season.

Prepare garden soil for spring planting. Incorporate generous amounts of organic materials and other amendments, using the results of a soil analysis as a guide.

Prepare raised beds in areas where cold soils and poor drainage are a continuing problem. Incorporate generous amounts (at least 2 inches) of organic materials.  Read more... (612 words, estimated 2:27 mins reading time)

Dealing with slugs

By Diane Hyde

As we pick up wind-blown debris and pull up weeds, clusters of slug eggs are found. Some species of slugs bury the eggs underground so they are not found until the little slime-makers emerge. Slugs live under or in nutrient-poor soil, bark, logs, pots, rocks or any dark, moist areas. Some, like the spotted slug, hang out in dry areas eating dead organic matter. Cleaning up debris and setting traps near their habitats can reduce their populations.  Read more... (453 words, estimated 1:49 mins reading time)

Tips on Spring Garden Planting

By Diane Hyde

To plant a garden is to believe in the future. Believe those seeds will sprout and mature in reasonable time. Believe your effort will be rewarded. Believe, but be wise in helping it happen. The spring solstice signals time for new growth, time to plant for the growing season. The days will be getting longer, and hopefully warmer soon. It is unlikely, but not impossible, that we’ll see another hard freeze this season, so it is safe to plant most crops in a garden.  Read more... (465 words, estimated 1:52 mins reading time)

Pacific Northwest subject of new Lori Rodrigues show at Lunaria

Lunaria Gallery in Silverton will present “Pacific Northwest” by Lori Rodrigues in April. These watercolor pieces reflect the depth of the Pacific Northwest wilderness, from wildflowers to volcanoes.

Upstairs, in Lunaria’s Loft Gallery,  “An Artist’s Evolution” by Jenny Armitage will feature watercolor and pen and ink. Her pieces are created with intention using an impressionist style and landscape patterns of light and shadow.

The two shows will be on display through May 1.
Lunaria is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays at 113 N. Water St., Silverton.   Read more... (110 words, estimated 26 secs reading time)

Solar Fair – Sustainable Silverton presents options

By Melissa Wagoner

Forced evacuation during the wildfires of 2020, fallen debris during the ice storm of 2021 and an increased amount of drought and fire danger after last summer’s heat dome event, when combined, became a major wakeup call for Megan Benedict – one she simply couldn’t ignore.

“These episodes made me feel very helpless,” Benedict said. “But I love my home and I love Silverton so I decided it was important for me to spend time doing what I can to help make our community more resilient in the face of these severe climate challenges. Feeling helpless stinks, I’d rather do what I can to make real change.”  Read more... (600 words, estimated 2:24 mins reading time)

New chapter – Books N Time in Silverton changes hands

By Melissa Wagoner

Karolle Hughes has seen bookstores come and go during the 30 years she’s lived in Silverton. 

“Whenever one would come in, I’d say, ‘Dag nab it!’ because I wanted to do that,” she recalled. “But it just wasn’t the right time for me.”

Then Chuck Tauer opened Books N Time in 2013 and Hughes knew right away that his store was something special. 

“I could peruse the store and pretty much know if they would succeed or fail. But when Chuck opened, I had such a good feeling,” Hughes said.  Read more... (451 words, 1 image, estimated 1:48 mins reading time)

Out of the oven – Bakery opens with cookies, scones, muffins and homey feel

By Melissa Wagoner

Silverton Bake Shop owner, Megan Ireland

Megan Ireland’s love of baking has its roots in the very heart of her childhood. 

“My mom baked and I always liked licking the beater,” Ireland recalled. “And when she made pies, I used up the scraps.”

Then, at Silverton High School, Ireland began taking Culinary Arts classes from Zelma Cannon and her love for making things beautiful in the kitchen only grew. 

“Mrs. Cannon was a real gift,” Ireland said. “She helped build my passion for food and for culinary arts.”  Read more... (471 words, 1 image, estimated 1:53 mins reading time)

Broadband competition booms in Silverton

By James Day

Silverton-area residents are being wooed by companies promising to upgrade the power of their internet.

Ziply Fiber took the plunge first, announcing in early March that its high-speed fiber optic network was ready for service for Silverton-area residences and businesses.

New and existing Ziply customers who wish to check their address for fiber availability, or who would like to sign-up to be alerted when fiber internet is available at their home or business, can register at https://ziplyfiber.com/Silverton. When fiber is shown as available at their address, Ziply’s existing DSL customers can upgrade by calling 1-866-699-4759.  Read more... (294 words, estimated 1:11 mins reading time)

Groundbreaking set for civic center

Silverton has set a groundbreaking for its new civic center complex for 11:30 a.m. April 11 at the site of the former Eugene Field School.

Elected officials and city staff will be on hand to make remarks, said City Manager Ron Chandler, but the schedule was still being finalized at Our Town’s presstime.

The $19 million project includes a two-story building, parking, a park and a plaza. The building will be erected on a 2.7-acre site at the north end of the Eugene Field property, which backs up to A Street between North Water and North First. A park is planned for the south end of the property that abuts Park Street. A plaza and parking are scheduled to be constructed between the building and the park area.  Read more... (166 words, 1 image, estimated 40 secs reading time)

Relief package – Mount Angel allocates $800K in ARPA funds

By Stephen Floyd

Mount Angel is moving forward with several upgrades to city departments after allocating more than $800,000 in COVID-19 pandemic relief funds.

The city spent months seeking public input and recommendations from staff and committees before the City Council gave final approval March 7.

A total of $803,382 was divided between the Parks, Public Works, Library and Police departments for upgrades ranging from a 3D printer at the library to wireless water meter readers. City Manager Mark Daniel said it was “awesome” being able to approve department proposals that would otherwise not have been funded.  Read more... (427 words, estimated 1:42 mins reading time)

Shortfall – Enrollment drop forces Mt. Angel to face large budget issues

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel School District (MASD) is considering deep cuts to programs and staff to cover a large budget deficit as enrollment continues to decline.

Based on current estimates, the shortfall could be around $783,000 if there are no significant differences in enrollment between the current school year and the next. However, projections range between $682,000 and $965,000 based on how many – or how few – students will return.

The board is considering a range of options including layoffs, furlough days, and cuts to academics and athletic programs, as well as utilizing emergency funds received to offset revenue losses from the COVID-19 pandemic.  Read more... (1142 words, estimated 4:34 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Carolyn Elaine Brenden (Feb. 28, 1949 – March 8, 2022)

On March 8, 2022, Carolyn Elaine Brenden passed away quietly at home where she loved to look out her window and enjoy the view.  

Carolyn was born on Feb. 28, 1949 in Embudo, New Mexico. She and her family moved from New Mexico in 1959 to Silverton, Oregon. 

Carolyn graduated from Silverton Union High School where she met her eventual husband Miles Brenden. She attended Chemeketa Community College where she was trained as a dental assistant. She married Miles on Valentine’s Day 1971 in Silverton and together they had three boys who she cherished beyond measure. Miles and Carolyn celebrated their 51st Anniversary this year.   Read more... (282 words, 1 image, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Donald M. Murtha (Jan. 17, 1937 – March 1, 2022)

Don Murtha passed away at the age of 85 on March 1, 2022. He was born in Queens, New York to John Charles and Selma Alberta Murtha and lived in his younger years in Hempstead, New York.

He graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in journalism. Don was a reporter in the old style of Walter Cronkite. At the time of John F. Kennedy’s death, on which he reported, he worked for The Savannah Evening Press in Savannah, Georgia. Don also reported on the civil rights movement of the time.   Read more... (289 words, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Robert Bodkin (March 4, 1947 – Jan. 10, 2022)

Robert W. Bodkin II was born in Los Angeles, California, on March 4, 1947. He passed away on Jan. 10, 2022, at the age of 74 at his home in the Silverton Hills. 

He grew up in Alhambra, California. Bob earned a B.A. in Marketing & Finance at California State University, Los Angeles. He was a Vietnam veteran, and a very successful real estate broker for 50 years. Bob was active in Cursillo retreats for many years. He was an avid golfer, a prolific gardener, and enjoyed playing cards with his family.   Read more... (287 words, 1 image, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Richard Aarhus (Aug. 22, 1940 – Feb. 9, 2022)

Richard Albert Aarhus, 81, of Kailua Kona, died Feb. 9, 2022 at Nakamaru Hale in Holualoa, Hawaii. He was born Aug. 22, 1940 in Silverton, Oregon. He was a retired farm equipment sales associate.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Aahus of Kailua Kona; daughters, Carrie (Dan) Carson of Oregon, Debbie (Bill) LeTexier of Minnesota; and grandchildren, Etan and Catherine.

A private service is to be held. Arrangements were made by Cremation Services of West Hawaii.

In Memoriam: Gela Mae Cort (June 21, 1931 – March 13, 2022)

Gela Mae Cort was born on June 21, 1931 in Marysville, Washington. She spent her carefree childhood days there before relocating to Long Beach, California in her teens. After graduating, she married her high school sweetheart, Al Koester. Their marriage lasted 72 years until her death on March 13, 2022. 

Their three daughters, Angela Phillips, Denise Winter, and Cherie Thorn, along with their father, were by her side as she peacefully passed.   Read more... (215 words, estimated 52 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: George ‘Bart’ Cross (Aug. 13, 1931– Feb. 13, 2022)

George B. “Bart” Cross, DMD, passed away peacefully on Feb.13, 2022 at the age of 90. He was born in Corvallis, Oregon on Aug. 13, 1931. He was the only son of Jess O. and Donna E. (Robertson) Cross. 

Bart had a long and successful career in dentistry. After graduating from Halsey High School, he attended the University of Oregon and OHSU School of Dentistry (then the University of Oregon School of Dentistry).   Read more... (284 words, 1 image, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Alan Grover Carter (Jan. 17, 1946 – March 12, 2022)

Dr. Alan Grover Carter passed away on March 12, 2022. He was born January 17, 1946 in Logan, Utah to Grover Carter and Grace (Anderson) Carter where his father was completing his stint as an army physician.

In 1950 the family fell in love with Hood River, Oregon. Grover joined a medical practice there; for many years he was the only Board-certified surgeon in Hood River Valley. Alan graduated from the University of Oregon with a BS in Biology in 1968, and made life-long friendships with his brothers from Sigma Phi Epsilon, and a fiance, Laurie Armstrong. He applied for a commission in US Naval Air and entered basic training in March of 1969.  Read more... (534 words, 1 image, estimated 2:08 mins reading time)

Homeland – Silverton artisan aids Ukrainian resistance by making jam

By Melissa Wagoner

Tasha Huebner feels every bomb that falls on Ukraine like a physical blow. A second generation American of Ukrainian descent, she has long maintained ties to her heritage through extensive travel, a study abroad in the 1990s and even a stint living in the capital city of Kyiv. 

Photos of the time feature a younger, more carefree Huebner, posing next to historic sites that date back hundreds of years as well as the view from her window – the iconic white and teal minarets of St. Andrew’s Cathedral silhouetted against a foreboding sky.   Read more... (887 words, 2 images, estimated 3:33 mins reading time)

Datebook: April 2022

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield
50 & older. 503-873-3093

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton.

Weekly Events

Monday

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

Bridge, 10 a.m., Silverton Senior Center.

Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Repeats Tues. – Sat. 503-845-6998

Mt. Angel Food Pantry, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 E Charles St. Repeats Wed. 503-845-6998  Read more... (2134 words, estimated 8:32 mins reading time)

New boss – Foxes football reels in 6A coach Dan Lever

By James Day

The Silverton High football program lost just once last season in a magnificent 12-1 year that saw the Foxes claim their first state title since 1991. Now, the school has hired the coach who dealt them that lone defeat.

Dan Lever of Tualatin has taken over the Foxes from Josh Craig, who stepped down in January because of family obligations. Lever was 39-15 in five years as the head coach of the Class 6A Timberwolves, who outlasted the Foxes 35-28 last Sept. 10 in a non-league matchup.

New Silverton High football coach Dan Lever  Read more... (425 words, 1 image, estimated 1:42 mins reading time)

Hoops success – Foxes take second in 5A boys tournament

Both Silverton High basketball squads advanced to the state tournament in Corvallis after sparkling Mid-Willamette Conference championship seasons. The boys team advanced to the state title match against Wilsonville, falling 34-30 in a defense-oriented game in which Silverton led 11-6 at halftime after shutting out the Wildcats in the second period.

The No. 4 Foxes opened with a thrilling 49-47 win against Mid-Willamette Conference foe Crescent Valley and followed that with a
50-36 semifinal take-down of top-ranked Redmond.  Read more... (965 words, 2 images, estimated 3:52 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: April 2022 – Home contests only

Friday, April 1

Baseball
5 p.m. Silverton vs Tigard

Saturday, April 2

Boys Tennis
TBD. Silverton vs Molalla

Monday, April 4

Boys Golf
Noon. Silverton @ OGA Golf Course

Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian

Softball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian

Tuesday, April 5

Boys Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs North Salem

Wednesday, April 6

Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian

Softball
5 p.m. Silverton vs Hillsboro

Thursday, April 7

Track & Field
4 p.m. Kennedy vs Jefferson

Boys & Girls Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs South Albany  Read more... (298 words, estimated 1:12 mins reading time)

A Grin at the End: Good to go! – GoPros and crawdads

Some if you may know that I’ve been having close encounters of the medical kind during the last few months.

And, no, it wasn’t COVID.

It was really nothing super serious, although, for the first time in my life, my doctor ordered me not to exercise. Every other time I’ve gone to a doctor I have been pestered to get more exercise, not less.

Times change, I guess.

Among the most recent encounters was a colonoscopy, which, if I remember my Latin, means “peek-a-boo.”

I won’t go into the details of the procedure. Anyone over 50 should be pretty well familiarized with it.  Read more... (612 words, 1 image, estimated 2:27 mins reading time)

Tower’s shadow – Old Wilco property to be cleaned, cleared, sold

By Stephen Floyd

Residents in Mount Angel will soon see cleanup activity at the site of the Old Wilco Building after fire investigators concluded the cause of the blaze that destroyed the structure last October could not be determined.

Barbara Hettwer, sister of late property owner Bob Bodkin, said the initial stage of cleanup has begun with testing for potential asbestos and other hazardous chemicals. The next stages will include HazMat cleanup, then general cleanup, after which the empty lot will be put on the market.

Hettwer said these stages may take a long time, but progress will be steady.  Read more... (576 words, 1 image, estimated 2:18 mins reading time)

Final steps – Silverton accepts bid for civic center construction

By James Day

Silverton will break ground on its new civic center this spring, with opening tentatively set for summer 2023.

The City Council selected Corp Inc. of Salem as the general contractor at its March 7 meeting. Corp Inc. turned in the winning bid of $14,750,000 to build the center, which will include a two-story civic center/police building as well as parking, a park and a plaza.  Read more... (583 words, 1 image, estimated 2:20 mins reading time)

TRACE – Silverton gets in on the ground floor of wastewater testing for COVID-19

By Melissa Wagoner

Tyler Radniecki knows first-hand that there is a lot to be learned from studying the wastewater of cities. An Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering at Oregon State University, he has spent years cataloging the microbes and pathogens found in sewer systems to, amongst other things, determine the spread of diseases in a community. 

Which is why, when COVID-19 arrived in 2020 he suspected his expertise could be of service. Then, when the SARS-CoV-2 was finally detected for the first time in the wastewater of Australia, he knew he had to act.  Read more... (764 words, estimated 3:03 mins reading time)

MASD going mask-optional March 14

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel School District plans to go mask-optional March 14 after state regulators changed a deadline the district expected to fall at the end of the month.

Oregon lifted its mandate on masks in public school buildings March 12, however MASD had made plans to carefully craft policy changes up to the state’s original deadline of March 31.

Despite being caught off guard, the district used guidance from state regulators and local community feedback to shift away from stricter COVID-19 precautions, though some safety measures remain.

Superintendent Rachel Stucky said, each person’s choice should be respected.  Read more... (459 words, estimated 1:50 mins reading time)

Creekside overlook project moves forward

The city of Silverton was accepting bids through March 3 for the “overlook” project, which will repair a washed-out section of pathway along Silver Creek near the library.

In 2015 during high flows of Silver Creek the old wall from an abandoned mill was damaged and the city closed the area.  In the summer of 2015 the city demolished the remaining wall and other damaged structures and stabilized the slope.

In 2018 the city completed a new design for the area that featured decorative concrete and fencing and a retaining wall, but the low bid was $45,000 more than the city estimate of $69,000 so the city decided not to move forward with the project, said city engineer Bart Stepp.  Read more... (172 words, estimated 41 secs reading time)

Recognition – Local author wins prestigious Oregon Spirit Book Award

By Melissa Wagoner 

When author Lisa Gerlits learned that her book, A Many Feathered Thing, had been named a 2022 Oregon Spirit Book Award (OSBA) winner under the category of Best Debut Book, she almost didn’t believe it.

“It’s unexpected because it’s two years after the publication date,” Gerlits said. “I thought my husband was joking.”

But it was no joke and the cover of Gerlits’ books now displays the golden OSBA seal to prove it.

“Now I can call myself an award-winning author,” Gerlits said. Explaining that, awards like the OSBA often provide a much-needed boost to first-time novelists and to their books as well.   Read more... (728 words, 2 images, estimated 2:55 mins reading time)

Rustlers of Red Rock – Brush Creek Playhouse reopens after two years

By Melissa Wagoner

It’s been two years since the last performance of Brush Creek Playhouse, The True Tale of the Sleeping Beauty, was shut down mid-season due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Since then, the iconic red building – built in 1895 as a school house on the corner of Brush Creek Drive and Silverton Road – has sat empty, awaiting the day when health restrictions would once again allow an audience to fill its seats.  Read more... (648 words, 2 images, estimated 2:36 mins reading time)

Bilingüe / bilingual – Spanish-English preschool opening in Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

When Lara Ghio Gaitan and her husband, Matt, traveled with their two children to Panama in 2017, it was their goal to immerse their children in a different culture and to encourage them to become more fluent in Spanish. But what they didn’t expect was that Gaitan would learn something as well – that teaching was her calling.

Lara Ghio Gaitan

“I realized what an impact one person can have on a kid who needs a mentor,” she said, recalling how the time she spent volunteering as an English teacher in Panama’s schools influenced her to consider a new career.  Read more... (491 words, 1 image, estimated 1:58 mins reading time)

Bonding over food – Guerra’s offers Italian dining in Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

Greg and Fran Guerra’s dream has long been to open an Italian restaurant. Which is why, in the winter of 2019, they purchased a building in the heart of downtown Silverton to make that dream a reality. 

“Things were going good,” Greg’s daughter, Dani, said. The family was elated when the papers were signed. “And then March 2020 came and we were like, ‘Wow!’”

The doors hadn’t been opened to a single customer before Guerra’s – the restaurant – was shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Read more... (353 words, 1 image, estimated 1:25 mins reading time)

From PCT to LMT – Adventure on Pacific Crest Trail leads to new business in Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

When 21-year-old Anna Koch set off to finish hiking the second half of the Pacific Crest Trail in 2020 – a journey that began the year before when she hiked 1,800 miles of the 2,650-mile trail stretching between the Canadian and Mexican borders – she expected to find adventure. What she didn’t expect to find was love – and a new career.

Anna Koch

Tyler Patterson

“We met right at the halfway point,” Koch said. Describing the moment she met her future partner, Tyler Patterson, at a resupply spot known as “trail magic” where – in her words – “more than trail magic happened.”   Read more... (550 words, 2 images, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Update: Barn fire at Mallorie’s site still being reviewed

Fire agencies and law enforcement still are investigating a barn fire at the site of the old Mallorie’s Dairy west of Silverton on Hazelgreen Road.

The fire, which was called in at 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 26, reportedly burned close to 1,500 tons of wheat straw.

Deputies at the scene, along with fire investigators from the Oregon State Police and Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal Investigators believe the fire is suspicious in nature, although the cause and origin of the fire have not yet been determined.   Read more... (178 words, 1 image, estimated 43 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Beth Marie Marcum (July 20, 1961 – Jan. 30, 2022)

There was a time to be born, and it was July 20, 1961 for Beth Marie Marcum, and there was a time to die, and it was Jan. 30, 2022, and in between was 60 years of living.

She attended Silverton elementary schools and just before her 16th birthday, she had a swimming accident that broke her neck, and she was paralyzed from the neck down. She graduated from Silverton High School and graduated from Chemeketa Community College while in her wheelchair.

Beth loved people, all kinds and ages of people, young and old. She worked the evening shift for the Women’s Crisis Center in Salem until it closed. She was a gifted counselor and friend to those lucky enough to be in her world.  Read more... (228 words, 1 image, estimated 55 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Gerald ‘Steve’ Cumins (Aug. 9, 1943 – Feb. 11, 2022)

Gerald Steven Cumins passed away peacefully in Mount Angel, Oregon on Feb. 11, 2022 at the age of 78. 

Steve was born in Altadena, California at St. Luke’s Hospital on Aug. 9, 1943 to Robert Howard and Aleise Rose Cumins. He was raised and went to school in Arcadia, California. He proudly served in the United States Navy from July 25, 1961 through Aug. 7, 1964 aboard the USS Jason.   Read more... (261 words, 1 image, estimated 1:03 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Trudy Deloris Foss (March 6, 1949 – Feb. 26, 2022)

Trudy Deloris Foss, 72, of Silverton, Oregon spent her final days at home surrounded by her family and loved ones. Trudy was born in McMinnville, Oregon on March 6, 1949 to parents Archie Faris and Kathleen (Kolaroff) Bowers. Trudy died on Feb. 26, 2022. Her passing was very peaceful as she had full confidence in her salvation through Jesus Christ.

The Faris family later moved from McMinnville to Central Oregon where Trudy graduated in 1967 from Sisters High School as Valedictorian. After high school she married Mike Carroll. They moved to Crescent City, California where she enjoyed being a homemaker and raising their children, Kimberly Dawn Carroll and Christopher Lee Carroll.  Read more... (722 words, 1 image, estimated 2:53 mins reading time)

Growth spurt – Community Roots 7th, 8th grades moving to Grange Hall

By Stephen Floyd

Community Roots School plans to move its middle school into the Silverton Grange building as part of a partnership to meet the program’s unique requirements.

A move-in date is not yet finalized, but school administrators are planning for the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

Middle school instructor Bridgett Steveson said partnering with the Grange will help support the agriculture-based curriculum her students begin using after elementary school.

“Bigger kids have bigger needs, and if we’re going to have a land-based program we need a campus that can cater to that,” she said.  Read more... (581 words, 1 image, estimated 2:19 mins reading time)

Strong showing – Silverton wrestlers take 9th at state

The Silverton High wrestling squad had three wrestlers place and two more score points in an impressive performance at the Feb. 26 Class 5A state meet in Redmond.

The Foxes finished ninth in the team race with 63 points. Silverton was third among Mid-Willamette Conference teams (behind champion Crescent Valley and No. 5 Dallas). At the district meet the Foxes finished sixth.

“Our kids that qualified performed at a high level,” coach Jared Wilson told Our Town. “All of our kids performed at or above their seed at state, which is a pretty cool thing and means your team is scoring more points than most (not us) expected.”  Read more... (1158 words, 2 images, estimated 4:38 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Mouse ears – A Disney adventure proves the power of branding – ca-chink!

I used to think the number one branded company in the world involved Golden Arches or a Swoosh. No more. Not even a close race, like Usain Bolt versus me in the 100 meters. Disney is so far out in front the rest of the pack has been lapped. Twice. 

Having just spent five days in Disneyland and its sister, California Adventures, it became clear to me that this happy place juggernaut has no equal.  When it comes to genius marketing and branding, “Imagineering” and engineering, and ways to make money, Mickey wins hands down. The costume/decoration for a child in a wheelchair, available at several stores, was touching.   Read more... (675 words, 1 image, estimated 2:42 mins reading time)

COVID burnout – Survey shows depth of frustrations from teachers

By Stephen Floyd

Roughly half of teachers within the Silver Falls School District have either considered leaving during the current school year, or are open to the idea, according to a recent survey by the teacher’s union.

Members of the Silver Falls Education Association were anonymously polled to gauge their level of burnout due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 60 percent of association members responded, and the results illustrated deep concerns among teachers about the futures of their careers and the support they receive from district administrators.  Read more... (432 words, 1 image, estimated 1:44 mins reading time)

Sustainable Silverton – A push to address city’s changing needs

By Melissa Wagoner

Addressing sustainability and climate change concerns on a city-wide basis is a complicated issue and one that is often exasperated by the very nature of city government.

“[The] City Council is comprised of volunteers with limited time and terms, while changing city code requires significant time and effort, especially as parties who may not share the City’s resolved climate goals, such as contractors and developers, emerge in this process to advocate for their own interests,” representatives from Sustainable Silverton – a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting planet-friendly choices – wrote in a press release discussing the city’s current response to climate change.  Read more... (1138 words, estimated 4:33 mins reading time)

Transition planning – Silver Falls district going mask-optional March 31

By Stephen Floyd

The Silver Falls School District has chosen to become mask-optional after statewide mask mandates are lifted March 31.

The district board voted six-to-one Feb. 14 to direct Superintendent Scott Drue to draft policies transitioning away from mask mandates that have been in place since 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Opposing the decision was Board Member Lori McLaughlin, who expressed concerns over dangers still posed by the disease.  Read more... (1078 words, estimated 4:19 mins reading time)

Looking for answers – Mt. Angel takes measured approach to un-masking

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel School District is taking a more cautious approach than its neighbors ahead of the March 31 deadline to lift indoor mask mandates in Oregon schools.

While the Silver Falls and North Santiam school districts voted to go mask-optional by March 31 and joined the call for an acceleration of the deadline, MASD Superintendent Rachel Stucky recommended using the coming weeks to carefully plan next steps.

“We’re going to need the entire time – all the way up to March 31 – to tease this out and make appropriate recommendations,” she said.  Read more... (559 words, estimated 2:14 mins reading time)

Daniel to remain interim manager

Mount Angel Interim City Manager Mark Daniel has agreed to remain in his position indefinitely as the city continues searching for a qualified applicant.

During the Mount Angel City Council meeting Feb. 7, Councilor Pete Wall said the search for a new city manager had become exceptionally difficult because of numerous other cities also hiring for the position.

“This is the worst time I’ve ever seen to recruit a city manager, ever,” he said.  Read more... (205 words, estimated 49 secs reading time)

Promotion – Shotts interim Robert Frost principal

By Stephen Floyd

Robert Frost School has a new principal as of Feb. 7 following a pattern of high administrator turnover within the district.

Holly Shotts, who formerly taught a 4th/5th grade blended class at the school, will serve as interim principal through June after former Principal Mandy Pack accepted a job with a different district. Pack had been principal since July 1, 2021, following the promotion of former Principal Leslie Roache as the district’s director of teaching and learning.

In a statement from the Silver Falls School District, Shotts said she is excited to support school staff and their efforts to serve students.  Read more... (367 words, estimated 1:28 mins reading time)

A new ‘Leaf’ – Little Leaf Café owner opening downtown location

By Melissa Wagoner

When Mersadee Lulay learned The Oregon Garden Visitors Center was looking for someone to take over the garden’s café space she jumped at the chance.

“This was an answer to a prayer,” Lulay said. “God or the universe dropped something in my lap that I couldn’t say no to.”

First introduced to the world of food service as a teenager living in Stayton and working for A&W, it wasn’t long before Lulay set her sights on bigger and better things, working her way up in various kitchens of all sizes across the country, and even working, for a time, as a private chef.  Read more... (551 words, 1 image, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Datebook: March 2022

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield

50 & older. 503-873-3093

Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton

Weekly Events

Monday

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

Coffee & Conversation, 10 a.m., Silverton Senior Center.

Bridge, 11 a.m., Silverton Senior Center.

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... (1757 words, estimated 7:02 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Rodney O. Bennett (May 26, 1932 – Feb. 4, 2022)

Rodney O. Bennett, 89, of Silverton, Oregon spent his final years in the loving care of Harmony House in Salem, Oregon. 

He was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 26, 1932, and died on Feb. 4, 2022. His passing was peaceful with family by his side.

His parents, George W. and Myrtle M. (Bliss) Bennett, preceded him in death, as did his siblings, Shirley and Gordon.

Over the course of three decades, Rodney was honored for his distinguished service to his country. He retired from the United States Air Force in 1974 after serving two enlistments for a total of 21 years, ten months, and 12 days. He was proud to be a veteran.  Read more... (284 words, estimated 1:08 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Carol Ann Heide (Sept. 20, 1962 – Jan. 13, 2022)

Carol Heide passed away Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022 at the age of 59. Carol Ann Heide was born to R. Kurt and Darlene (Derr) Heide on Sept. 20, 1962 in Silverton, Oregon. She graduated from Silverton Union High School in 1980.

Carol enlisted in the United States Army in 1980 and served for six years. While enlisted, she earned a Marksman badge for rifle, an Expert badge in Hand Grenade, two Good Conduct Medals, and an Army Achievement medal. She was the gunner on an M60 machine gun team during her first tour in Germany. She served in 1st Signal Battalion, Kaiserslautern (K-town), West Germany, 34th Spt Battalion 6th Cavalry “Wagonmasters” (a Chinook Helicopter Unit), Ft. Hood, Texas and 1st Military Intelligence Battalion (Aerial Exploitation), Wiesbaden Army Airfield, West Germany.  Read more... (251 words, estimated 1:00 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Lorraine Duda (Aug. 25, 1923 – Jan. 25, 2022)

Lorraine Elouise Spies was born and raised in Elizabeth, Minnesota. She worked on the family farm milking cows. In her twenties she rode the train to Oregon with her father, in search of another farm. They settled in Silverton, where she worked at Steelhammer Drug as a soda jerk. She loved it and talked about it many times over the years.  Read more... (327 words, estimated 1:18 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Bob Reed (1933 – 2022)

Robert Baxter Reed, 88, of Silverton, Oregon died in his home on Jan. 28, 2022. Born in Lyons Oregon in 1933 when a gallon of gas cost 10 cents, Bobby – as he was called when he was a child – grew up in Detroit, Oregon, attending the elementary and middle schools in town.

As a young man, Bob attended Estacada High School where he was a multiple sport athlete. Bob would earn his way into Stanford University after setting Oregon state high school track records in the 1600-meter race.  Read more... (277 words, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Mary Jane Crosby (April 25, 1951 – Feb. 14, 2022)

Mary Jane Crosby died in Silverton, Oregon on Feb.14, 2022. Her Christian faith sustained her despite a lifetime of physical suffering; strengthening and enabling her as a loving wife and mother, a caring teacher, and a prayer warrior.

She was born April 25, 1951 in Buffalo, New York – daughter of Milan and Alice MacMartin. After Milan’s death in 1953, Alice married his brother John MacMartin, known and loved as Dad.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas H. Crosby; their three children, Shelly (Yun), Justin (Elizabeth), and Jonathan (Kelsey); four grandchildren, Kathryn, Alric, Sawyer, Quinn; and two sisters, Edith and Diane.  Read more... (148 words, estimated 36 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Dave Fennimore (Feb. 26, 1952 – Nov. 8, 2021)

Dave Lee Fennimore passed away in his daughter’s home on Nov. 8, 2021 in Scotts Mills, Oregon. He was born on Feb. 26, 1933 to Bill and Mamie Fennimore. He was the second child of eight.

He married Esther Crites on Nov. 29, 1952 at the St. Mary Parish House in Mount Angel, Oregon. Dave and Esther lived most of their lives in Scotts Mills. They had four children through the years.  Read more... (237 words, 1 image, estimated 57 secs reading time)

Showcase your talent – Senior Follies applications due March 15

The “Senior Follies,” showcasing the talents of those aged 50 and older, is set for June 24-26 at Silverton High School, with March 15 the application deadline.

Applications are available at the Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield St. Email director@silvertonseniorcenter.org to receive an application via email or for more information. Interested parties also can call Silverton Senior Center Executive Director Dodie Brockamp or Candace Bushnell, the show’s director at 503-873-3093.

“We are very excited about this fun community event that will show the talented side of seniors, who are still very active and vibrant,” said Pressnall.  Read more... (164 words, estimated 39 secs reading time)

Geocaching – An inexpensive, family-friendly hobby for all ages

Denise and Carina Leland enjoy sharing geocaching adventures.

By Melissa Wagoner

If you like puzzles, being outside and exploring places you’ve never been then the hobby of geocaching might just be for you.

“I like to describe it as a world-wide treasure hunt,” Carina Leland – a recent graduate of Silverton High School who started geocaching with her parents when she was only five – said. She was explaining the worldwide, outdoor recreation phenomenon that allows participants to track down hidden treasure using GPS coordinates.  Read more... (921 words, 1 image, estimated 3:41 mins reading time)

Scholarship powerhouse – Silverton alum group has $2M in assets

By James Day

In 1993 the Silverton High School Class of 1963 held its 30th reunion. Event organizers decided to invest $900 in excess funds at the end of the reunion and use the proceeds for scholarships.

From that small beginning the Silverton High School Alumni Association has grown to become a $2 million enterprise. Its most recent annual fundraiser in 2019, raised more than $32,000 (the 2020 and 2021 events were canceled due to COVID-19).

As of the 2021 scholarship cycle the association has awarded 1,766 scholarships totaling nearly $1.4 million. The 2021 awards went to 71 awardees and added up to $89,000, with individual grants ranging from $750 to $2,500.  Read more... (553 words, 1 image, estimated 2:13 mins reading time)

Back home – Unearthed photograph returns to Portland, thanks to volunteers

By Fred A. Parkinson

Sometimes, things just work out. Through a serendipitous chain of events, a long-forgotten artifact has found its way back to its original neighborhood. 

As a member of the Silverton Country Historical Society with an avid interest Silverton’s architectural history, I was asked to compile the story of the former Silverton Flower Shop building at 311 N. Water St. by developer Ben Johnston, who has converted it into a bakery with an adjacent food cart pavilion. During a recent tour of the building, an old photograph was spotted that, after an expressed interest, was delivered to the Silverton museum.  Read more... (566 words, 1 image, estimated 2:16 mins reading time)

A special team: Silverton Unified squad earns ESPN Champion School honors

By James Day

The Unified special needs teams from Amity and Silverton entertained an enthusiastic crowd on Tuesday, Feb. 15 at Silverton, with Amity taking a 43-37 win that didn’t seem to matter amid the oohs and aahs that greeted each basket.

But that’s the beauty of the Unified game. It’s all about getting out there and trying a new skill and enjoying being on the court with your teammates.

The Silverton Unified team received a plaque from ESPN for being named national program of the year for 2020.  Read more... (694 words, 2 images, estimated 2:47 mins reading time)

Swimming standouts: Aqua Foxes overcome challenges to set records

At the beginning of the season in November, the Silverton High swim team did not even have a pool.

Repairs at the Silverton Community Pool were not concluded until one month into the season.

The Aqua Foxes became road warriors, training at odd hours at Molalla and Woodburn. The squad also was all but shut down for two weeks in January because of COVID.

The payoff came Feb. 18, when the squad turned in a series of excellent performances in the Class 5A state championships at the Tualatin Hills Aquatic Center in Beaverton.  Read more... (767 words, 1 image, estimated 3:04 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: March 2022

Thursday, March 17

Baseball

5 p.m. Silverton vs North Salem

Friday,
March 18

Softball

2:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Grant Union / Prairie City

5 p.m. Silverton vs Crook County

Tuesday, March 29

Softball

4 p.m. Silverton vs The Dalles

Thursday, March 31

Softball

5 p.m. Silverton vs Redmond

* Home events only

** For updated schedules, visit osaa.org

A Grin at the End: Are you ready to be a citizen? – Just get six right

I was reading The Wall Street Journal the other day and my heart sank. No, I wasn’t looking at my mutual funds and how they have fallen through the floorboards in the last couple of months. That’s a whole other column.

I was reading the results of a national survey. It found that, in 49 states, less than half of the adults could pass the U.S. Citizenship Test. Only in Vermont did more than half of the respondents – 53% – pass the test.  Read more... (548 words, 1 image, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Out of the running: Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer won’t seek re-election

By James Day

Kyle Palmer, who has been a fixture in Silverton community affairs for most of this century, is retiring from the political arena.

Palmer, who is midway through his second full term as mayor, announced Jan. 30 via social media that he is retiring from elected office at the end of this term. Palmer also answered questions from Our Town and his responses for this story are a combination of those two sources.  Read more... (836 words, 1 image, estimated 3:21 mins reading time)

Now open: Silverton Road bridge repair complete

By James Day

The Silverton Road bridge over the Little Pudding River between Silverton and Salem has reopened to through traffic.

It’s smooth sailing across the Little Pudding River thanks to the recently completed Silverton Road bridge.

The $6.4 million bridge work on the span on Highway 213 is completed to the extent that it is safe for motorists to use, although a few loose ends will be tidied up later this spring, said Steven Preszler, the project manager for Marion County.  Read more... (238 words, 1 image, estimated 57 secs reading time)

Mount Angel kicks off 2022 events

Mount Angel celebrates the wonders of the wurst from Feb. 25-27 at the Festhalle when the Chamber of Commerce hosts Volksfest.

This will be the 13th rendition of the event, said chamber board president Sarah Bauman. Organizers for the event, which originally was called Wurstfest, say they plan on making this festival a full COVID-19 recovery from months of social isolation.

“We have a great list of vendors,” Bauman said, noting the sausage and other German fare of Mt. Angel Sausage Co, Ebners Custom Meats, and Urban German. Beer will be poured from local and mid-valley favorites Benedictine Brewery, Silver Falls and Block 15, with wine from Paradis, Hanson Vineyards, and Touch of Bavaria also available.  Read more... (247 words, estimated 59 secs reading time)

30 years of service – Silverton Together to dissolve this summer

By Melissa Wagoner

On July 1, 2022 Silverton Together, a beloved community institution whose mission was to strengthen and support families, facilitate community cooperation and promote health and well-being since 1993, will cease to exist.

“This decision to dissolve was made after considerable board discussions over the last couple years as we responded to the federal, state and county foundation grant funds drying up,” board president and Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer wrote in a press release. “COVID-19 challenges greatly accelerated our concern regarding our sustainability as an organization. Community donations and support have allowed us to maintain core services but we recognize that it isn’t viable long term. Together we agreed that the best way to honor our organization’s history and value in our community was to take action now and use the remainder of our resources to transition our programs so that they can live on in the community under new direction.”  Read more... (585 words, 1 image, estimated 2:20 mins reading time)

What you need to know about cats

In response to “Penny’s Journey”
[Our Town Feb. 1 edition] this is a perfect time to talk about responsible pet ownership. When you take on a pet, it’s for the lifetime of that animal.

Adopting a Cat/Kitten: When considering adoption, you are committing to the life of that cat. Cats can live to be 20 years old. If you rent, you will always need to rent where pets are allowed. If you get married, have a baby, change jobs, or move, the cat goes with you.   Read more... (505 words, estimated 2:01 mins reading time)

$4K raised for 2022 scholarships

The Silverton Lions Club would like to thank the community for its support of our holiday Sees candy sales. Silverton Lions have been selling Sees Candy for over 20 years. It is a tradition for us and for the many families and businesses that support us.

A special thank you to Jack Holt, who has provided a spot for our booth in the Ace – Hi School Pharmacy parking lot.

A portion of our candy sales always goes toward scholarships. We are pleased to announce that this year, we will be presenting $4,000 in college scholarships to graduating 2022 high school seniors.  Read more... (124 words, estimated 30 secs reading time)

Rarely retired – Stadeli receives Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award

By Brenna Wiegand

Otto Stadeli said you could have “knocked him over with a feather” when the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce crashed his pinochle game to name him recipient of this year’s Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award.

Stadeli, 93, says doing good business and volunteering are just part of being in a community.

Otto Stadeli was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by Darby Hector and Chamber Executive Director Stacy Palmer.

Born and raised in Silverton, Stadeli used to split a nickel with his brother for their janitorial endeavors at Evergreen School. He was married to Edith Kaufman for 42 years and they had 11 children, resulting in Otto’s 190 direct descendants.  Read more... (755 words, 1 image, estimated 3:01 mins reading time)

Humbled – Dumitrescu honored as First Citizen

By Stephen Floyd

When Hilary Dumitrescu learned she was being honored with the First Citizen Award by the Silverton Chamber of Commerce, she was in the company of friends and past award winners.

The Silverton resident, community organizer and business owner said they had the wrong person, that others in the group were more deserving than she was. But she was also very grateful to be recognized for her role as a dedicated community leader.

First Citizen Hilary Dumitrescu.

“I’m very humbled by it,” she said.  Read more... (472 words, 1 image, estimated 1:53 mins reading time)

Beer and more – Silver Falls Brewery’s community spirit earns a toast

By James Day

Andrew Fox was in the landscaping industry. Eric Druliner worked in law enforcement. They shared a love of beer – and of Silverton.

The result: Silver Falls Brewery, which joined the local craft beer scene in 2015 in a converted pole barn in Druliner’s backyard and now occupies a gleaming structure in downtown Silverton.

Andrew Fox and Eric Druliner of Silver Falls Brewery

But it’s not just a brewery. The company – and its employees – has very quickly entwined itself into community life in Silverton, with the result that it has been named Silverton Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year and will be honored Feb. 26 as part of the Silverton Community Awards night.  Read more... (550 words, 1 image, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

It takes a city: Skatepark expansion group wins first Service Club Award

By James Day

If you want to get an update on the skatepark expansion in Silverton you get in touch with Sue Roessler. She maybe in Hawaii, but she always gets back to you.

And when she was asked to comment on the project winning the inaugural Service Group award for the annual Silveton Chamber of Commerce Community Awards? Well, the elapsed time from email out to email in was 56 minutes. Even from Maui.  Read more... (556 words, 1 image, estimated 2:13 mins reading time)

Three in a row: Silverton restaurateurs add bistro, receive service award

By Melissa Wagoner

It’s only been two years since Josh Echo-Hawk and his wife Paige opened their first restaurant, Graystone Lounge in Silverton, but a lot has happened since then. 

“We were doing the (purchase) closing and getting the keys, wondering if we were ever going to open,” Echo-Hawk said, recalling those initial weeks, in March 2020 when, with the pandemic at its most uncertain, he and Paige wondered if they had made a poor choice.

Josh and Paige Echo-Hawk

But those doubts were short-lived and, only one year later, the Echo-Hawks opened yet another eatery, coined The Irish Pub in the vacant space next door.   Read more... (1059 words, 1 image, estimated 4:14 mins reading time)

Backyard burning – Restrictions are part of a ‘good neighbor’ policy

By Brenna Wiegand

Being a good neighbor excludes backyard burn piles that pollute the air and/or threaten to burn down the house next door.

“We’ve had to shut doors and windows because of the smell and smoke from a neighbor’s burn pile,” a rural Silverton resident said. “We’ve seen burn piles that included plastic bins, a plastic table and rugs.

An illegal fire containing garbage extinguished by fire personnel.

“We know our neighbor burns plastics because we can smell it,” she added. “There are environmental hazards and carcinogens. I suspect people burn their trash, too, including plastic utensils.”  Read more... (898 words, 1 image, estimated 3:36 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Everett (Buck) Hazen Hicks

Everett (Buck) Hazen Hicks passed away peacefully on Dec. 21, 2021, at the age of 91, in Tacoma, Washington, where he and Marcheta were living with his son John.

Born and raised in the Coos Bay area, he joined the Navy and served in the Korean War. He later moved to a Boarding House run by the mother of his future wife, Marcheta. They were married in 1955. He got a job working for the Continental Telephone Company.

In 1968, when Buck was promoted to Communication Consultant, they were happy to move with their two sons, John & Joe, from the coast to Silverton, Oregon. Buying a home on West Main Street, they raised their sons until they both graduated from Silverton High School.  Read more... (790 words, 1 image, estimated 3:10 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: John Paul Wolf, Sr. (Sept 6, 1930 – Jan. 7, 2022)

John Paul Wolf, Sr., 91, of Salem, Oregon passed away on Jan. 7 from natural causes.

John was born on Sept. 6, 1930 to Jacob and Philomena Wolf in Sioux County, North Dakota. He was one of 11 children. After John graduated from Silverton High School in 1949, he went on to work as a dairy herdsman and a carpenter.

On Nov. 21, 1953, he married the love of his life, Lorraine Gottschalk, and they went on to have five children (Joan, Anita, Cindy, John Jr., and Michael). As a young married couple, they moved to Phoenix, Arizona where John worked as a superintendent for a well-known construction firm. In 1964, they returned to Silverton due to John’s mother being ill. In 2004, they relocated to Salem, Oregon.  Read more... (312 words, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Luella Mae Thomas (July 8, 1939 – Jan. 28, 2022)

Luella Mae Thomas passed away Jan. 28, 2022 at Silverton Hospital after battling pneumonia.

Luella was born July 8, 1939 in Pomeroy, Washington to Raymond and Dorothy Williams. She married David Lee Thomas April 9, 1955. They had seven children together. Through many ups and downs Luella always remained the center of her family.

She is preceded in death by her son David Dean; sister, Mary Lee; parents, Raymond and Dorothy; brother, Ray; husband, David; daughter, Dianna; and grandsons, Chucky and Michael.  Read more... (154 words, 1 image, estimated 37 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Elma (Babs) Viola Brown Till (May 18, 1931 – Feb. 3, 2022)

Elma Viola Brown Till, of Silverton, Oregon passed away on Feb. 3, 2022 at home, surrounded by family. She was 90. Elma (“Babs”), wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother was born on May 18, 1931 in Saskatchewan, Canada to Kenneth and Bertha Brown, and in 1937 moved to Oregon with her parents. She attended grade school in Aurora, Oregon and Canby High School and Mount Angel Teacher’s College. Babs taught 4th grade for two years at Canby Elementary School and later taught 3rd grade at Monitor Elementary School for 17 years.  Read more... (332 words, 1 image, estimated 1:20 mins reading time)

No masks – Maskless students asked to leave high school during Feb. 4 protest

By Stephen Floyd

Silverton High School Principal Sione Thompson (center) and Superintendent Scott Drue (right) address students at a demonstration on Feb. 4. Braden Geiger

Around two dozen students were asked to leave Silverton High School Feb. 4 during a maskless walk-in protesting state COVID-19 mandates.

Demonstrators gathered outside the school entrance that morning, prepared to disregard mandates requiring masks in all school buildings to prevent the spread of COVID-19. They were met by administrators who explained, though the district supports students’ rights to protest, the school must enforce state regulations and any students who entered unmasked would be asked to leave.  Read more... (1308 words, 1 image, estimated 5:14 mins reading time)

Craig steps down – Foxes looking for new football coach

Silverton High football coach Josh Craig, who led the Foxes to the Class 5A state title this past season, has announced his resignation.

Craig, 31, is stepping down because of family considerations.

“My wife gave birth to our second daughter (Colby on Jan. 4), and now we have a 19-month-old (Murphy) and a newborn,” Craig said. “When I got the job five years ago, my wife (Kenzie, who teaches at the middle school) and I made an agreement that I would coach for five years and re-evaluate where we were at.  Read more... (763 words, 2 images, estimated 3:03 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: It’s not easy – But occasional guest columnists welcome to apply

As an optimist, I am pulling for us to get past these mid-winter doldrums and this general malaise. These are not easy times, and as I remind everyone walking by with a pulse – there are no easy answers. 

Ukraine is on our minds, as it should be, with memories of the Cold War, Cuban Missile Crisis, and seemingly untenable demands for settling amicably and diplomatically. Even more worrisome to this optimist? Russia, China, and Iran are conducting joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean.   Read more... (575 words, 1 image, estimated 2:18 mins reading time)

Personal recovery – No-cost workshops encourage thriving, boosting, wellness

By Melissa Wagoner

If you’ve ever been interested in planting your own vegetable garden, curating an art collection, improving your job interview skills, understanding your children, reducing stress, eating better or just becoming a happier person then now is your chance to take the leap – for free.

“[The courses are] intended to focus on topics that will support all of our community through the pandemic,” Natalie Beach, Dean of Library and Learning Resources for Chemeketa Community College, said of the new Community Wellness and Recovery Workshop Series.  The Zoom courses will run now through the end of the 2021-2022 school year.  Read more... (553 words, estimated 2:13 mins reading time)

Next phase: Bidding open for Silverton Civic Center project

By James Day

Concept art for the City of Silverton’s new civic center.

The City of Silverton has opened the bidding process for the construction of its new civic center.

Bidding opened Dec. 21, with the deadline for bids Feb. 23. Community Development Director Jason Gottgetreu, the lead city staffer on the project, said that the City Council is scheduled to review the bids at its March 7 meeting.

Construction could begin as soon as April on the $19 million project, which will include a two-story civic center/police building as well as parking, a park and a plaza.   Read more... (309 words, 1 image, estimated 1:14 mins reading time)

Following Conklin – Mt. Angel School Board prepares to fill open seat

By Stephen Floyd

The Mt. Angel School District Board is seeking to fill a vacant seat after the recent passing of Board Member John Conklin.

Board President Shari Riedman

The late John Conklin

The board is scheduled to appoint a new member Feb. 14. Qualified residents have until Feb. 7 to apply.

An appointee must be a registered voter, have lived within the district for at least one year and may not be a district employee. The appointed term would last until 2023.  Read more... (409 words, 2 images, estimated 1:38 mins reading time)

‘If I were mayor’ – Student ideas encouraged

By Melissa Wagoner

Mayor Kyle Palmer is well aware that the future of Silverton lies not in his own hands, but in those of the city’s youth – a fact that he finds inspiring.

“I’ve spent 23 years coaching youth sports and had spent 18 years operating the veterinary camp where I used to work. I recognize and appreciate the perspective that young people have on the world around them, and know that generations of society have typically overlooked the contributions they can make,” Palmer explained.

Which is why, every year, when the annual, statewide, “If I Were Mayor…” contest rolls around, he gets more than a little excited.  Read more... (392 words, estimated 1:34 mins reading time)

Omicron peak: Legacy foresees a return to record-setting hospitalizations

By Brenna Wiegand

Like health systems across the country, Legacy Health, which includes Silverton Legacy Medical Center, is seeing a significant increase in visits and hospitalizations due to the COVID-19 Omicron variant.

As of Jan. 24, Legacy Health was caring for three times as many COVID-19 positive patients than just a month before. 

“The recent wave of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations due to the Omicron variant is concerning,” Kristin Whitney, Public Relations Strategist for Legacy Health, said. 

“We anticipate seeing a steep rise of COVID+ patients in the coming weeks, with an Omicron peak expected by Feb. 1.  Read more... (489 words, estimated 1:57 mins reading time)

Robotics – Da Vinci Surgical System comes to Silverton Medical Center

By Brenna Wiegand

Legacy Health recently launched a new surgical robotics program at Legacy Silverton Medical Center with the installation of an Intuitive da Vinci Xi Surgical System robot, a versatile robotic system used by surgeons around the world.

This advanced instrumentation allows surgeons to perform delicate and complex operations through a few tiny incisions with increased vision, precision, dexterity and control.

Dr. James Nealon, M.D., General Surgeon, uses the Intuitive da Vinci Xi Surgical System robot at Legacy Silverton Medical Center. Submitted Photo.

Many operations, once lengthy procedures followed by long hospital stays, are now performed as outpatient procedures, with some patients returning home within a few hours.  Read more... (457 words, 1 image, estimated 1:50 mins reading time)

Public House – New sports bar now open in Mount Angel

By Melissa Wagoner

“It’s a sports bar with great food,” Brandon Norbury, owner of the Mt. Angel Public House, said when
asked to describe the eatery which, though it quietly opened its doors to patrons during Oktoberfest in September, finally held its official opening on Dec. 19.

Andres Goyer and Brandon Norbury, the team behind the newly opened, Mt. Angel Public House.

“And it was phenomenal,” Norbury said of the celebration, which included live music, a presentation by the Flywheels Car Club, a tap takeover by the Tualatin-based G-Man Brewery and amazing food courtesy of Mt. Angel Public House’s own head chef, Andres Goyer.  Read more... (347 words, 1 image, estimated 1:23 mins reading time)

Datebook: February 2022

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield

50 & older. 503-873-3093

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton.

Weekly Events

Monday

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

Coffee & Conversation, 10 a.m., Silverton Senior Center. 

Bridge, 11 a.m., Silverton Senior Center. 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... (1733 words, estimated 6:56 mins reading time)

Penny’s journey – After nine years (nine lives?) cat returned home

By Melissa Wagoner

Bobbie the Wonder Dog may have met his match in the form of Penny, Pratum Elementary School’s Christmas cat.

Steve and Kathleen Carlson reunited with Penny after nine years.

“[Y]ou just can’t make this stuff up,” Pratum Elementary School teacher Lisa Freauff said of the story, which began during the Christmas break of 2021 when she heard a cat “yelling” from the empty school’s supply room.

“That’s really the only way to describe how she was meowing,” Freauff said. Recalling that, once she was able to locate the cat, it was very apparent she was in distress.  Read more... (812 words, 2 images, estimated 3:15 mins reading time)

Two positions, one action – COVID prompts student walkouts at Silverton High School

By Stephen Floyd

Students at Silverton High School staged opposing protests last month to highlight what they believed were harmful COVID conditions in the classroom.

A walkout held Jan. 19 protested state mandates requiring students to wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, while a walkout held Jan. 20 called for a two-week return to distance learning in light of increasing infection rates and burnout among teachers and staff during the Omicron wave.

Officials with the Silver Falls School District did not respond to requests for comment prior to press time.

A spike in infections, burnout  Read more... (1013 words, estimated 4:03 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Gloria Ross (Bledsoe) Goodman (September 20, 1930- January 12, 2022)

Gloria Goodman of Silverton passed away January 12, 2022, of natural causes at the age of 91. She had quite a career. Born in Luling, Texas and raised there and in San Antonio, she was the daughter of Hugh and Ina (Jones) Clark. Her teen years were spent living with her grandparents, Arthur and Ina Langston in San Antonio because the military life with her mother and Stepfather, Col. Dixon Jones, in the cool northwest (Washington) was not to her teen liking.  Read more... (1261 words, 1 image, estimated 5:03 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: John Paul Wolf, Sr. (Sept. 6, 1930 – Jan. 7, 2022)

John Paul Wolf, Sr., 91, of Salem, Oregon passed away on Jan. 7, 2022 from natural causes.

John was born on Sept. 6, 1930 to Jacob and Philomena Wolf in Sioux County, North Dakota. He was one of 11 children (Clara, Mary, Cecelia, Gabe, Agnes, Ruth, Virginia, Bernie, Leon, and Irene). After John graduated from Silverton High School in 1949, he went on to work as a dairy herdsman and a carpenter.  Read more... (329 words, estimated 1:19 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: Ballot qualification?

Although I live in Silverton, I work in California, most often remotely.

I am a strong supporter of Nick Kristof and his run for Governor of Oregon.

I don’t understand why he is not on the Ballot.

I read a news story about former Supreme Court Justice Riggs[’] opinion that Nick qualifies, and a guest opinion by three former secretaries of state who agree that, when it comes to determining eligibility to vote or run for office, election officials usually err on the side of inclusion, not exclusion, from the democratic process.

That is how it ought to be.  Read more... (188 words, estimated 45 secs reading time)

Hoops showdowns – Foxes boys, girls in thick of title races

The Silverton boys basketball team outlasted top-ranked Crescent Valley 58-52 on Jan. 24 to take sole possession of first place in the Mid-Willamette Conference.

The Foxes, ranked 7th in Class 5A, improved to 11-5 overall and 7-0 in league play while winning their sixth consecutive game overall. C.V. dropped to 11-4 and 5-1. The two teams play again Feb. 25 in Corvallis, with the regular-season title likely to be on the line. Silverton finishes the first half of the league season Jan.27 at Lebanon.  Read more... (893 words, 1 image, estimated 3:34 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: February 2022 – Home Game Varsity Contests

Tuesday, Feb. 1

Boys Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Swimming

7 p.m. Silverton vs Lebanon

Wednesday, Feb. 2

Boys Basketball

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Delphian

Friday, Feb. 4

Boys Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas

Tuesday, Feb. 8

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Central

Wednesday, Feb. 9

Girls Basketball

5 p.m. Kennedy vs Culver

Boys Basketball

6:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Culver

Friday, Feb. 11

Girls Basketball

5:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Salem Academy 

Boys Basketball  Read more... (126 words, estimated 30 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Way of the future – Do you really need to see me for a phone call?

 Read more... (549 words, 1 image, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Illegal dumping – Abandoned chemicals leads to arrest of Silverton man

By Stephen Floyd

One of the many cans dumped near Scotts Mills

A Marion County man is facing multiple charges after allegedly abandoning dozens of cans of paint thinner along the roadside at several locations near Scotts Mills.

John Hyslop, 50, of Silverton, was arrested Dec. 20 after the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received reports Dec. 17 of numerous cans of paint thinner and similar liquids abandoned south of Scotts Mills.

Around 50 five-gallon cans were recovered along Ettlin Loop NE, Hazelnut Ridge Road NE and McKillop Road NE. Authorities said they have no information suggesting additional locations were impacted.  Read more... (338 words, 2 images, estimated 1:21 mins reading time)

A whole spectrum – Two moms talk about raising sons with autism

By Melissa Wagoner

When Natashia Kletter and Kriston Norris became mothers to their sons, Kenny and Noah, they knew their lives were about to change. What they didn’t know was how much.

Noah and Kriston Norris

“Even as a baby, there were things I could see,” Norris said. Recalling the many unique attributes her son, Noah, exhibited not long after birth. “But it was just him.”

Then, when Noah was three, a family member who is also a doctor, approached Norris about having Noah tested for autism. The results were something Norris says she had known on some level all along – Noah has autism.  Read more... (1078 words, 1 image, estimated 4:19 mins reading time)

Scout’s honor

By Melissa Wagoner

After more than a year of being apart, Silverton’s Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts – now simply known as “the Scouts” – were finally able to resume in-person meetings and group activities, and they were sure glad.

“Over Zoom it was hard,” Scouts parent volunteer Rhett Randall said. He noted that during the shutdown the club, which generally hovers around 20 members, dropped to only 12. 

“But now that we can have in-person meetings it’s a lot easier,” he said. He added that the resumption of events – including a 55-mile, five-day canoe trip through the Boundary Waters of Minnesota – has helped boost morale
as well.  Read more... (743 words, 2 images, estimated 2:58 mins reading time)

Historical Society plans in-person annual meeting

The Silverton Country Historical Society will hold its annual meeting at the Silverton Senior Center Saturday, Jan. 22, 1 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

The meeting will begin with reports on membership, finances and election of new board members. There will also be a recap of the many activities the historical society is working on.

This year’s program will include a special presentation on the new Homer cartoons that were added to the collection in 2021, as well as an update regarding the 10 Davenport originals in the City of Silverton’s possession. Following the program there will be refreshments and time to visit.   Read more... (119 words, estimated 29 secs reading time)

Thank You, Silverton!

The Silverton Zenith Woman’s Club thanks the community of Silverton for all the help they received for their 2021 Tree of Giving project. Together we were able to make Christmas a little brighter for 210 children in the Silver Falls School District.

We wish to particularly thank:  Read more... (168 words, estimated 40 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Darlene Beckner (Aug. 31, 1965 – Dec. 16, 2021)

Darlene Beckner was born in Inglewood, California to David and Janet Beckner on Aug. 31, 1965. The family moved to Paradise, California in 1969 where Darlene attended Paradise Adventist Academy and Paradise High, graduating in 1984. 

She went to Chico State and received her Master’s Degree in Training and Development. She began her career working in the Environmental Safety Department at the university before going to work at Ernst & Young and then Deloitte. 

In 2012 she moved to Santa Barbara to work at the university until 2017,  then took a position at the State of Oregon’s Employment Department. She lived in Silverton, Oregon before moving to Corvallis. She died in Corvallis on Dec. 16, 2021.  Read more... (160 words, 1 image, estimated 38 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Gary Bork (Sept. 5, 1949 – Dec. 28, 2021)

Gary Douglas Bork was born Sept. 5, 1949 to Ernest and Geraldine Bork in Hood River, Oregon. 

He passed away Dec. 28, 2021 in Silverton, Oregon – his long-time residence. 

Gary is survived by his daughter, Melissa Bork; sister, Ida Martin; brothers, Stan and Dennis Bork, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Gary was a loving father and a friend to many. Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing, visiting Alaska, and visiting his friends and family. Gary worked as a mechanic, farming, and in the timber industry. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.   Read more... (117 words, 1 image, estimated 28 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Dave Cox (June 10, 1935 – Dec. 20, 2021)

Preston D. (“Dave”) Cox, 86, passed away peacefully in his home on Dec. 20, 2021.

Dave was born June 10, 1935 in Northville, South Dakota to George and Ruby Cox. In 1944, his family moved to Downey, California. He graduated from Downey High School in 1953.

Dave married Lindia Fleming in 1955 and bought his first house in Bellflower, California, where they had their five children. 

In 1968 he accomplished his ultimate dream, moving to his farm in Silverton, Oregon, where he raised kids, cattle, and sheep.  Read more... (192 words, 1 image, estimated 46 secs reading time)

Slice of history: Silverton resident writes book on Allied involvement in Russian Civil War

By James Day

Silverton resident Lee Mercer has published a novel about a little-known piece of World War I-era military history.

Lee Mercer on a research trip to the Russian village of Tulgas in 2014.

Along with their French, British, Australian and American allies, Canadian troops fought on the side of the White Russians against the Red Bolsheviks from 1918-19.

In The Archangel Invasion, Mercer tells the story of Canadian Ammon Freeman, who is loosely based on his grandfather, Ammon Mercer, who was wounded at Vimy Ridge in World War I.   Read more... (513 words, 1 image, estimated 2:03 mins reading time)

Wrestling preview – Kennedy, Silverton both looking to make some noise

Dewey Enos continues to build a solid foundation for wrestling at Kennedy High. Enos, a Silverton High grad, started in 2017 with just 10 wrestlers. This season, he has 26 athletes on the roster and some good momentum based on a second-place finish at districts during last spring’s COVID-influenced season.

“To be honest there were some very hard years, and extremely tough days,” Enos said. “This is only the beginning. I try to explain to these great student-athletes that wrestling is a sport of commitment, accountability, and dedication.  Read more... (761 words, 5 images, estimated 3:03 mins reading time)

Silverton Singles – Replacing online dating with old-fashioned community

By Melissa Wagoner

When Heidi Walker found herself single again after 15 years of marriage, she knew dating would be different but she wasn’t prepared for how different it would be.

Silverton Singles bowling at Silver Creek Lanes.

“I just remember meeting people through friends and work. It was never an issue to meet people,” Walker, 45, said recalling what dating had been like when she was in her twenties. “People were always talking and mingling and exchanging numbers. But now everybody’s married. And you don’t want to date too much in your own group because then you’re alienating people if it doesn’t go well.”  Read more... (417 words, 1 image, estimated 1:40 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Mr. In-between – Seeing the edges, listening to each community

Editor’s note: Dixon Bledsoe invited a guest columnist for this month. We’ll let Fred Vandecoevering introduce himself… 

Growing up a farm boy north of Mount Angel I never have belonged.  I started out at Monitor Elementary. Well, Monitor itself as a school had an identity crisis. 

Half the kids lived in Marion County, half in Clackamas. Of the ones living in Clackamas at that time, some went to Silverton Union High and some went to Molalla. So you see, it was in-between.  Read more... (633 words, 1 image, estimated 2:32 mins reading time)

On the wing – Birding gets hobbysts out in all weather

By Melissa Wagoner

When Richard Niemeyer bought his wife, Debbie, a pair of binoculars in 2011 he never could have imagined the impact the gift would have on both of their lives. 

“It wasn’t a particularly expensive pair,” Debbie said of the gift. “But one of the first things I saw was an osprey.”

Still one of the couple’s favorite birds because of the spectacular way it dives from the sky to catch fish, that first osprey opened their eyes to an entirely new hobby – birding.

Lazuil bunting.
Courtesy of Richard Neimeyer  Read more... (744 words, 2 images, estimated 2:59 mins reading time)

Water works – Silverton Community Pool reopens with upgraded equipment

By Stephen Floyd

After months of waiting for a new boiler and battling supply chain shortages, the Silverton Community Pool has reopened to the delight of residents and staff.

Silverton Community Pool reopened Dec. 13 after a boiler failure forced them to close Aug. 26.

The pool closed Aug. 26 after the old boiler failed, and was not expected to reopen until late October or early November. But the new boiler ordered by the Silverton City Council was hit by supply chain delays and the manufacturer said it might not be ready for up to a year.  Read more... (431 words, 1 image, estimated 1:43 mins reading time)

Double duty – Chief Mark Daniel thrives as Mt. Angel’s interim city manager

By Stephen Floyd

Mark Daniel was already a man of many hats when he became interim city manager of Mt. Angel on Sept. 1.

The police chief/emergency manager/firefighter/EMT/DJ knew it was an unusual choice to add city administration to his many responsibilities. But the last four months have shown he was up to the task, with the coming year holding the potential for many goals to progress or see completion under his leadership.

The position of city manager was vacated in August when former City Manager Kevin Cronin left Mt. Angel. Daniel previously filled in for Cronin during a two-week vacation, so it was no surprise when officials and community members encouraged him to serve on an interim basis.  Read more... (1476 words, 1 image, estimated 5:54 mins reading time)

The Superintendent – Mt. Angel’s Dan Bernt retires after 36 years

By Stephen Floyd

Mt. Angel has lost an institution after Public Works Superintendent Dan Bernt retired following 36 years with the city.

Dan Bernt, Mt. Angel public works superintendent, thanks his friends and colleagues Dec. 17. Bernt retired Dec. 31 after 36 years with the city.

Bernt was hired as a utility/maintenance worker in 1985 and became superintendent in 1996. After years of flirting with retirement, he decided to step down as of Dec. 31.

During a ceremony Dec. 17 at the Mt. Angel Fire Department, friends and colleagues recognized Bernt’s years of leadership and hard work in the sometimes-literal trenches.  Read more... (412 words, 1 image, estimated 1:39 mins reading time)

Datebook: January 2022

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton.

Weekly Events

• Monday

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

Coffee & Conversation, 10 a.m., Silverton Senior Center. 50 and older. 503-873-3093

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... (1781 words, estimated 7:07 mins reading time)

Room for all – Silverton Coffee Club finds new space

By Melissa Wagoner

When the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person meetings for Silverton’s numerous 12-step recovery programs, the Silverton Coffee Club – a nonprofit that has provided and maintained those programs’ meeting space for over 30 years – jumped at the opportunity to sell their current space, one in desperate need of costly repairs, in the hopes of finding a new one before the meetings resumed.

But it was a difficult task, finding a space that fit the organization’s needs, which included accessibility for all ages and mobilities as well as access to both bathrooms and a kitchen.   Read more... (373 words, estimated 1:30 mins reading time)

American identity – Ahamu Umi gives MLK Day keynote

Ahjama Umi

When African-American racial and social justice activist Ahjama Umi saw a gang of conservative white motorcyclists roar in at a funeral he was attending for one of its members, he didn’t feel intimidated or threatened. He saw an opportunity for dialogue on issues likely foreign to the gang. That’s how Umi works: transform a culture through dialogue, getting people to see and think in ways they didn’t before.

Umi will give the keynote address – “Does American Identity = White Supremacy?” – for the 19th Annual Silverton Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Observance on Monday, Jan. 17 at 6 p.m., via Zoom (5:45 p.m. sign-in). Readings and song will be part of the program.   Read more... (489 words, 1 image, estimated 1:57 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Jared Miller (March 13, 1980 – Dec. 9, 2021)

Jared John Miller, 41, passed away Dec. 9, 2021 surrounded by his wife, father, sister, and best friend. Jared was born March 13, 1980 in Richland, Washington to Dennis and Waldeen Miller.

He grew up with his younger sister, Cassie Lange and younger brother, Steven Miller in the Wenas Valley in Yakima County. It was there with his great-grandparents that he developed his lifelong love of fishing, hunting and being in the wilderness.

Before high school, Jared moved to Portland, Oregon to live with his father and stepmother, Kelly Miller. While in high school he participated in golf and football until sidelined by an injury. He continued his education at Western Oregon University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Law Enforcement.  Read more... (348 words, estimated 1:24 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Dennis W. Bean (July 6, 1942 – Dec. 12, 2021)

Dennis Bean of Silverton passed away on Dec. 12, 2021 at the age of 79.

Dennis was born in Mount Angel, Oregon, to William and Ann Bean.  He grew up in Mount Angel, and graduated from Mt. Angel Prep in 1960. Dennis attended the University of Portland and was a pitcher on the Pilots baseball team. He graduated with a business degree in 1964 and made lifelong friends there. Dennis went on to earn a J.D. from Willamette College of Law.

Dennis practiced law in Oregon for 50 years. He was an attorney in Salem, and then started his own firm in Silverton.  He served as the City Attorney for Silverton for 25 years.  Read more... (277 words, 1 image, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Mary Dunbar (April 3, 1947 – Dec. 14, 2021)

Mary Louise Shimp Dunbar died on Dec. 14, 2021, age 74 years old, in her home and surrounded by family, near Silverton, Oregon. 

Mary’s passions included a 30-plus year career as a nurse, gardening, thrift store-shopping in our area, fishing, clammiing, and rock collecting. She was also a founding member of The Oregon Garden. She was an active member of St. Paul Catholic Church. Those who knew her admired her boundless love.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, John and Dorothy Shimp, her brother Bob Shimp.   Read more... (142 words, estimated 34 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Gilda Farrell (April 12, 1949 – Dec. 5, 2021)

Gilda Amber Farrell, 72, of Silverton, Oregon passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side, in her home on Dec. 5, 2021.

Gilda was born in Prairie, Oregon to Arthur and Grace Shoun (Shankle) on April 12, 1949.

Gilda grew up in John Day, Oregon. She married Ernest S. Farrell of Mount Angel, Oregon on July 15, 1967. They lived in Silverton for the past 54 years.

Gilda worked as a C.N.A at River View Convalescent Care, Silver Gardens and Benedictine.  Read more... (207 words, 1 image, estimated 50 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Janis Carroll (April 30, 1950 – Dec. 15, 2021)

Janis Carroll unexpectedly suffered a massive stroke on Dec. 15, 2021. Both her sons were by her side as she transitioned peacefully.

Born to Harold and Montene Thompson in Vallejo, California in 1950, Janis married Roy Rogers and later Charles Klawitter. 

She raised two boys in Napa, California while running “The Hollow Reed” gift store and then her payroll business. After moving to Silverton, Oregon she opened “Reliable Bookkeeping” on Oak Street (next to the movie theater) and was an active community member, helping organize the first Silverton Wine & Jazz Festival and volunteering for local efforts such as the food bank. She was proud to be featured with her dog Lolli on the Pet Parade mural on First street.  Read more... (209 words, 1 image, estimated 50 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Bradley Weldon Foss (May 23, 1953 – Nov. 22, 2021)

Bradley Weldon Foss was born May 23, 1953 in Spokane, Washington to Edna Marie (Bond) and Theodore Weldon Foss. Brad passed away in Bend, Oregon on Nov. 22, 2021 at the age of 68.

Brad was raised in Clarkston, Washington and attended high school in Spokane where he joined his siblings Nancy, Ron and Marilyn Foss. Later he traveled to Colorado where he worked as a log truck driver and married Terry Cochran. They had two sons, Robert Weldon and Brandon John Foss. Brad also had a daughter, Alexandria Nikki Hess.  Read more... (331 words, 1 image, estimated 1:19 mins reading time)

Hoops previews – Foxes, Trojans already off and running

The Silverton High boys basketball team, which blazed through a 14-1 COVID season last spring, is off to a strong start for 2021-22.

The Foxes were 4-0 and ranked third in Class 5A at Our Town’s presstime and were battling in the Capitol City Classic in Salem. Post-Christmas the squad will play at a tournament in Arizona.

The Foxes are 1-0 in Mid-Willamette Conference play via a 54-27 win at Corvallis.  Read more... (633 words, 1 image, estimated 2:32 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: January 2022

Monday, Jan. 3

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas

Tuesday, Jan. 4

Swimming

6 p.m. Silverton vs Molalla

Wednesday, Jan. 5

Boys Basketball

5:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Gervais

Wrestling

6 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas

Girls Basketball

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Gervais

Thursday, Jan. 6

Boys Basketball

5:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam

7 p.m. Silverton vs Central

Girls Basketball

5:30 p.m. Silverton vs Central

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam

Friday, Jan. 7

Swimming

5 p.m. Silverton vs Blanchet Catholic  Read more... (196 words, estimated 47 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Clocks, calendars & choppers – Going through my list

It’s that time of year for the “To-Do” lists to come out. My personal list is the same this year as every other year: lose weight, win the lottery, travel more and screw around less. That last one is the toughest. My DNA is chock full of genes that enable me to shift into neutral at the drop of a recliner.

But I have another “To-Do” list. It’s not for me, but for our public servants in Washington, D.C.  Read more... (588 words, 1 image, estimated 2:21 mins reading time)

Getting to know you… Despite pandemic, ice storm, fires, community makes a good impression on newcomers

By Melissa Wagoner

When Skye de los Reyes moved to Silverton with her husband, Liam, and their four children this past summer, she didn’t really know what to expect. 

“I grew up in Alabama, which is known for hospitality and friendliness,” de los Reyes said. Admitting that when she found out her family would be moving across the entire country because of her husband’s work – he teaches Ethics at the Mt. Angel Abbey – she was more than a little concerned.   Read more... (1324 words, 3 images, estimated 5:18 mins reading time)

Help wanted: Pandemic has put additional stress on local non-profits

By Stephen Floyd

The Great Resignation has pummeled the private sector, with record numbers of employers across the country struggling to fill open positions.

A sign seeking volunteers in the window of ReVamp in downtown Silverton. The non-profit thrift store has been struggling to recruit helpers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local restaurants and retailers are seeking new hires, too. While societal shifts from the COVID-19 pandemic maybe partially responsible, other factors like baby boomer retirements also play a part.

Volunteerism for some area nonprofits has been impacted, too. While the community is eager to support its neighbors, some groups are hurting for helpers.  Read more... (647 words, 1 image, estimated 2:35 mins reading time)

A letter to Stu – Former mayor led the way

Dear Stu,

Well, you did it! Congratulations! You lived your life start to finish, front to back, side to side the way you saw fit. You were way ahead of your time. You knew it from day one. Your overall general intelligence far exceeded that of many of us. Surely, myself included. 

What a book could be written about you and your life Stu. It would be a best seller. Especially if you would have allowed it to be as open and honest as you have been in the last 20 plus years or so.   Read more... (469 words, estimated 1:53 mins reading time)

DMV sends out Grinch alert – fake texts are a scam

SALEM – Scammers posing as the Oregon DMV are texting cell phones claiming that a refund is available. It is a fake message and a phishing scam trying to get payment information from unsuspecting Oregonians. DMV urges customer not to click on any links and delete the message. 

“DMV does not text customers to let them know about a payment issue, or issue refunds via text message,” DMV Customer Services Manager Katie Hafner explained.

DMV staff members are aware of the issue but are unable to provide technical assistance with a customer’s phone. If you have questions about how to block a number, contact your cell phone provider.  Read more... (161 words, estimated 39 secs reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: The Stocking Spree – Rediscovering the holiday with spirit

I’ve always had a soft spot for Christmas stockings. This, in large part, is thanks to my mother who is an impeccable gift giver. She always knows exactly the right thing or – as was the case with our Christmas socks, many right things – to buy. 

Cheap polyester, scratchy on the inside, fuzzy on the outside, the stockings themselves held little appeal. It was what was inside that counted. Nail polish, Chapstick, tiny toys and – my father’s contribution – a lottery ticket – they were always fully loaded, stuffed like sausage in a casing, so heavy they could no longer be hung by the chimney, but rather lay, seams straining against the hearth on the floor.  Read more... (656 words, 1 image, estimated 2:37 mins reading time)

Base coat – Silverton Mural Society gathers community support

By Melissa Wagoner

When Chris Davie joined the Silverton Mural Society in 2020 the organization was in desperate need of help. Longtime leader, Vince Till, had recently passed away and support had begun to wane.

Tonya Smithburg painting the addition to the Bobbie Mural on Water Street.

“The key thing for the mural society is, we always need money,” Davie, who is now the board treasurer, said. 

“It costs $10,000 to $12,000 a year to maintain the murals. So, we live from paycheck to paycheck.”

It’s a situation Davie, who has some experience in the field, is hoping to change.   Read more... (466 words, 3 images, estimated 1:52 mins reading time)

All hands on deck! – Taking holiday baking to the next level

Sonja, London and Alexis Wagoner wrapping caramels.

By Melissa Wagoner

Christmas candy has a long tradition in my family. Beginning with stories of my grandfather stealing maple fudge from a jar stored in the root cellar; to my own memories of running through the snow, festively wrapped candy plate in hand, while my mom waited, Christmas list in hand, in the car; to my own children, bedecked in their holiday finery, delivering tasty treats to our neighbors in an old wooden wagon. It’s a ritual as much a part of Christmas for my family as the obligatory lighted tree.  Read more... (1168 words, 2 images, estimated 4:40 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Josef Sprug (April 9, 1922 – Nov. 28, 2021)

Josef Sprug was born April 9, 1922 in Fort Smith, Arkansas and passed away in Seattle, Washington on Nov. 28, 2021 at the age of 99.

His father, an immigrant from Austria, survived the Great Depression by painting Catholic churches throughout the area. Josef often said that he survived by reading and that led him to a bachelor’s degree from St. Meinrad College, a B.S.L.S from Catholic University, and a master’s degree in philosophy.   Read more... (492 words, 1 image, estimated 1:58 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Marilyn Seiler (Jan. 29, 1936 – Dec. 3, 2021)

Marilyn (Piatz) Seiler, 85, passed away on Dec. 3, 2021 surrounded by her five children in Silverton, Oregon. 

Marilyn was born in Napoleon, North Dakota on Jan. 29, 1936 to Joseph and Rose (Gross) Piatz. She was the youngest of three siblings. Her family moved to Mount Angel, Oregon when she was just six months old.

Marilyn went to St. Mary’s grade school and graduated high school at the Mount Angel Academy in 1954. After graduation, she worked at a dentist office in Mount Angel.   Read more... (401 words, 1 image, estimated 1:36 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: MaryAnn Havlik (Jan. 19, 1939 – Dec. 3, 2021)

MaryAnn (Bielemeier) Havlik passed away at her home on Dec. 3, 2021 of natural causes. She was 82 and a life-long resident of Mount Angel, Oregon. She was born Jan. 19, 1939 to George and Anna Bielemeier, the youngest of five children. Her brothers: Raymond, Joseph, James and Arnold preceded her in death.

MaryAnn attended St. Mary’s grade school and Mount Angel Academy, graduating in 1957. After completing Modern Beauty College, she went to work as a hairdresser in Portland. It was there she met Robert Havlik and they were married Oct. 8, 1960. They made their home in Mount Angel and raised four children.  Read more... (331 words, 1 image, estimated 1:19 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Gregory Enns (Feb. 25, 1953 – Oct. 10, 2021)

Gregory Allen Enns was born Feb. 25, 1953 in Eugene, Oregon to Alfred Enns and Phyllis Estelle Stanley Enns. 

The family would move to Albany, Oregon where Greg would go on to graduate from Albany High School with the class of 1971. Greg enlisted in the US Army after graduation and served
in Vietnam. 

He later attended George Fox College where he met Sara “Sally” Voth. The two were married on March 6, 1976 in Newberg, Oregon.  Read more... (408 words, 1 image, estimated 1:38 mins reading time)

Magical season – Foxes have a new trophy for the case

Somehow you get the feeling that folks in Silverton will be talking about the final play of the 2021 Class 5A football title game for a long time. 

Here is the setup: The Foxes were clinging to a 26-20 lead against Thurston and were facing 4th and 17 at the Colts’ 26 with 12 seconds left. No timeouts left. 

Let’s let coach Josh Craig tell the story:  Read more... (834 words, 2 images, estimated 3:20 mins reading time)

Pediatric vaccinations – Legacy delivers COVID-19 shots to kids

By Brenna Wiegand

Recent approval of Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine for children was welcome news to many families and communities across Oregon, especially those who have been hit hard by COVID-19.

It also gave Legacy Health staff in the Silverton region the green light to create ways of getting them out to kids from five to 11 years old quickly and efficiently.

Legacy Health worker administers a vaccination to a youngster during the Silverton High School clinic.  Read more... (292 words, 1 image, estimated 1:10 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Faith – Regardless of our beliefs

I asked a young acquaintance recently if she believed the Christmas Story, that Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary, died for our sins, and that if we believe in God and act as He would wish us to act practicing Christian charity, we will join Him in Heaven with everlasting life. As a reliable Sunday morning church attendee, her response has stayed with me and made an impact I will carry with me throughout my days – “Hmmm… I don’t really know. But I believe that if I do good things in my life, especially for those less fortunate, and treat others well, I will be fine.”  Read more... (653 words, 1 image, estimated 2:37 mins reading time)

COVID decision fatigue – It’s exhausting when small decisions are critical

By Melissa Wagoner

Decision fatigue is a relatively unknown mental health term that has, during the past 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, begun getting more attention.

“Decision fatigue describes the challenges in making decisions large or small, typically occurring after a period of time of frequent or complex decision making,” Audry Van Houweling, the owner of She Soars Psychiatry in Silverton, said. She added the psychological phenomenon presents with symptoms like brain fog, slowed thinking, decreased mental stamina, anxiety and the feeling of being trapped or paralyzed when faced with decisions.  Read more... (989 words, estimated 3:57 mins reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: Navigating the maze – COVID testing and the ins and outs of travel

I just spent an entire morning negotiating the administration and shipping of three specially ordered COVID tests so that my children and I can travel to visit their grandparents in a little over three weeks – and I’m still not sure I have it all straight.

The challenge lies in the timing, in order to travel to this particular state, one must have, prior to boarding the flight, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test result – administered by one of only a handful of specific testing partners no more than 72 hours prior to the last leg of the flight.   Read more... (875 words, 1 image, estimated 3:30 mins reading time)

Village food court – A trio of dining cart options in one outdoor space

Customers wait for their order at From Russia with Love.

By Melissa Wagoner

Despite a stormy night, the atmosphere is festive beneath the glowing blue and white striped tent over LC’s Outdoor Market – the newly opened food cart pod in downtown Mount Angel. 

“At this point we’re just creating the atmosphere,” Kirk Deignan who, along with his wife, Mary, owns From Russia with Love – a chain of five food carts dispersed throughout Oregon.

Initially opened for business during Oktoberfest, the Market’s vendors hit the ground running, with crowds of hungry patrons lining up to indulge in the popular Mos-Cow peroshki and beef pelmeni at From Russia with Love and the scratch-made Reubens at Fire Side Grille.  Read more... (506 words, 1 image, estimated 2:01 mins reading time)

Elves back in business – Holiday bazaars, festivals, make comeback

The Mount Angel-Silverton Hazelnut Fest & German Holiday Market is back this year, with regional vendors like Blue Sky Fungi scheduled to return.

By Melissa Wagoner

Holiday bazaars are not just providing holiday spirit this year, they’re also bringing a little bit of “normal” to a year that has been anything but.

“In a way it is a little more special this year,” Kim White – Vendor Coordinator for Santa Mouse, Silverton’s longest running holiday bazaar – confirmed. “It is giving us something to look forward to.”  Read more... (935 words, 1 image, estimated 3:44 mins reading time)

Datebook: December 2021

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 Charles St.

Silverton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield, 503-873-3093. Age 50 and older.

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, 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

Mt. Angel Food Pantry, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 E Charles St. Repeats Wed. 503-845-6998  Read more... (2164 words, estimated 8:39 mins reading time)

Christmas cheer – New Silverton mural now at Oregon Garden Resort

Lori Rodrigues beside her newest mural at the Oregon Garden Resort.

By Melissa Wagoner 

Silverton’s newest mural is a bit off the beaten track, but definitely worth the trip. Located at the Oregon Garden Resort, this 40-foot tribute to all things Christmas, is the latest creation of prolific muralist, Lori Rodrigues, and a focal point for the upcoming Silverton Christmas Market.

“Learning about the ideas for the market really drew me in,” Rodrigues said of the influence the event’s theme, the traditional German Christmas market, had on the mural’s design.  Read more... (513 words, 1 image, estimated 2:03 mins reading time)

‘Willing to work’ Serving Silverton 65 years, Dr. Davies dies

Dr. Olwyn Davies

By Brenna Wiegand

Turns out Dr. Davies never had to set a retirement date, something he was not looking forward to.

When Our Town sat down with Dr. Olwyn K. Davies in July, the 92-year-old physician was still seeing patients at his office in Silverton, where he was surrounded by massive stacks of files, each belonging to a beloved patient he was hoping to transfer into the hands of a worthy substitute.

Davies was profoundly aware of their role in helping him achieve something amazing.  Read more... (967 words, 1 image, estimated 3:52 mins reading time)

Stu for Silverton – Remembering former mayor, trailblazer Stu Rasmussen

Stu Rasmussen

By Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer

It is with sadness that I report that Mayor Stu Rasmussen passed away Wednesday [Nov. 17] around 11 a.m. after a number of weeks under home hospice care for metastatic prostate cancer.

His longtime love Victoria noted that “he went bravely into the unknown on his own terms.”

One of the few people around with single name familiarity in our community and beyond, Stu received international attention in 2008 when he became the nation’s first transgender mayor. His story was featured in People Magazine, on Good Morning America, and was the subject of a stage production in Seattle titled Stu for Silverton.  Read more... (490 words, 1 image, estimated 1:58 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Stewart Alan “Stu” Rasmussen (Sept. 9, 1948 – Nov. 17, 2021)

In Memoriam: Jack Lloyd Conner (Oct. 24, 1935 – Oct. 29, 2021)

Jack Lloyd Conner, 86, passed away Oct. 29, 2021 at home with family and friends. He was born on Oct. 24, 1935 in Hollywood, California to Kenneth and Neva Conner. He was raised in Topanga Canyon, and Pacific Palisades, California with one older sister. 

He graduated from University High School in Los Angeles, California in 1954. In school he was on the track (shot-put) and football teams.

On Oct. 8, he married Christine Fields at Lake Hills Community Church in Laguna Hills, California. They had no children of their own, but he was Godfather to two, a beloved uncle and fondly remembered as coach, mentor, friend and Santa Claus to children from his church, neighborhood, and many families and friends.  Read more... (288 words, 1 image, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Rosemarie Santogrossi (Jan. 18, 1938 – Nov. 15, 2021)

Rosemarie I. Santogrossi of Keizer, Oregon died at age 83 on Nov. 15, 2021 at Salem Hospital after a
brief illness. 

She was born on Jan. 18,  1938 in Pasadena, California to Walter G. Wolmer and Matilda Braun Wolmer.  

After high school and a few years of employment she married Edmund Santogrossi, a native of Brooklyn, New York. They raised three boys, Michael (Br. Ansgar), Stephen and Matthew in Southern California. 

In 1993 they moved to Oregon, where Edmund died in 2005. Rosemarie was known for her kindness, attention and sweetness to everyone she met and had a large circle of relatives and friends she kept in touch with.    Read more... (222 words, 1 image, estimated 53 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Kathy Ratliff (June 14, 1950 – Nov. 10, 2021)

Kathy Lorraine Ratliff of Mount Angel, Oregon passed in the early hours of Nov. 10. Her kind spirit and tight embrace still, and always will, linger in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. 

The wife of an army mechanic turned farmer, Kathy Lorraine dedicated her life to her family. A nurturing soul, she and her husband, Carl, raised two boys; eventually welcoming grandchildren and great grandchildren into the world. 

True to her roots, Kathy was born in the heart of the Willamette Valley along with her four sisters, Virginia, Kimberly, Toni, and Sandi, only living for a short stint in Germany while Carl served before settling in Mount Angel.   Read more... (144 words, estimated 35 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Ida Beth Freitag (April 25, 1940 – Oct. 11, 2021)

Ida Beth (Salton) Freitag passed away on Oct. 11, 2021, at the age of 81, following an unexpected recurrence of breast cancer from eight prior years. She is survived by her husband of 57 years Charles (Chuck) Freitag, daughter Lisa (John), son Bret (Heather), and her six grandchildren: Brynna, Carter, Jorie, Tyler, Joshua and Matthea.

Ida Beth was born April 25, 1940, in the remote town of Marathon, Iowa. The privations of farm life and loss of her father at age five forged a pragmatic and sustaining instinct along with the influence of older siblings Donna, and George, a father figure to her.   Read more... (458 words, 1 image, estimated 1:50 mins reading time)

State champs! Foxes hold off Thurston to claim 5A football title

Silverton head coach Josh Craig (back to camera) gets a hug from defensive lineman Lawson McEntire after the Foxes downed Thurston to win the Class 5A state title.

By James Day

HILLSBORO – The Silverton High football team raced out to a 23-0 lead Saturday against Thurston and then held on in resilient fashion to take a 26-20 victory against the Colts and earn the Foxes’ first state football title since 1991. 

Silveton also got payback for 2019, when Thurston dominated the Foxes 44-14 in the semifinals. The Colts took state titles in 2018 and 2019.  Read more... (859 words, 1 image, estimated 3:26 mins reading time)

Trojans fall to Coquille 38-28 in tough 2A football final

By James Day

Kennedy’s shot at a second Class 2A football title ended Saturday with a 38-28 loss to Coquille at Cottage Grove High.

Gunner Yates, the Red Devils’ standout running back, rushed for an OSAA title game record 388 yards and 5 TDs. Yates, who carried 23 times and only once was stopped for a loss, scored on runs of 55, 26, 74, 61 and 48 for the No. 4 Red Devils, who won their first title since 1970.  Read more... (367 words, estimated 1:28 mins reading time)

Shooting stars – Silverton trap shooters score big

The Silverton High trap shooting program turned in standout performances during the just-completed fall season. The Foxes had a record turnout of 34 participants.

The Foxes placed second in Class 1A-Conference 4 behind Canby. The top five shooters for Silverton were John Montgomery (23.10 average out of 25 targets), Quinn Kelley (22.70), Kyle Schmidt (22.40), Levi Haun (22.25) and Dylan Sanarov (22.20. 

Montgomery and Kelley both finished in the top 25 out of 432 shooters in Oregon. Three Silverton shooters, Tayte Beede, Nathan Miller and Gabriel Voll, all turned in a 25 straight performance during the season. Kelley registered 50 in a row.  Read more... (356 words, 2 images, estimated 1:25 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: December 2021

Wednesday, Dec. 1

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Jesuit

Tuesday, Dec. 7

Boys Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Thurston

Wednesday, Dec. 8

Wrestling

6 p.m. Silverton vs Lebanon

Thursday, Dec. 9

Boys Basketball

5:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian

Girls Basketball

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian

Friday, Dec. 10

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Springfield

Tuesday, Dec. 14

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Friday, Dec. 17

Girls Basketball

7:30 p.m. Silverton vs Sherwood  Read more... (109 words, estimated 26 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Congratulatory antics – A bit too much, a bit too often

As a red-blooded, all-American guy, I’ve been watching a lot of football these days. There’s nothing better than a Sunday afternoon of watching highly paid athletes knock heads with one another to lower the stress level.

But as I watched the games I noticed something – actually, it was pretty hard to miss. Often, when a player caught a pass or made a touchdown, he would spend the next few minutes celebrating. He would strut around flexing his muscles. Occasionally, his teammates would join in with some sort of jumping around.  Read more... (545 words, 1 image, estimated 2:11 mins reading time)

Stu Rasmussen: Sept. 9, 1948 – Nov. 17, 2021

Stewart Alan “Stu” Rasmussen died Nov. 17 2021 at the age of 73. Stu, the indefatigable engineer who became America’s first openly transgender mayor, was born in Silverton, Oregon on Sept. 9, 1948 as an only child to Albert and Nan Rasmussen. Stu, who used both he and she pronouns, was a self-described nerd from the start and thanks to a handful of local mentors and adopted parents his love for TV, radio, and all things electronic flourished.  Read more... (743 words, estimated 2:58 mins reading time)

Rapid response commended – Silverton Lions Club presented with awards for Santiam Canyon fire service

By Melissa Wagoner

Long before the flames of the Labor Day 2020 wildfires were extinguished, Ward Frederick knew he had to do something to help those who had lost everything to the flames.

Lions Club District Governor, Lynn Coon, standing with Heidi Ostrom, Pastor Michael Stair, Tomina Wolff, Ward Frederick, Jon Debo and Steve Potter.

“Besides being a Realtor and doing business up there, I have a restaurant background and am in the wholesale food business,” Frederick – a principal broker with John L Scott Realty and the owner of a Mission Foods Distributorship – said. His background provided the impetus for the seven-day-a-week, three-meal-a-day field kitchen he eventually set up deep in the Santiam Canyon.  Read more... (1111 words, 1 image, estimated 4:27 mins reading time)

Comforting cats

Author Donna Hues’ new essay is published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Clever, Curious, Caring Cat.

By Melissa Wagoner

When Donna Hues learned that her short story, “Guard Cat,” was among the top 300 contenders for a spot in the popular book series, Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Clever, Curious, Caring Cat, she was more than a little surprised.

“They get 1,000-plus stories,” Hues said of the fierce competition. She’s normally a historical fiction novelist. “I thought well, if I even get good feedback that would be OK.”  Read more... (515 words, 1 image, estimated 2:04 mins reading time)

Not so fast – COVID-19 vaccinations and mandates challenged

Guest Opinion by Colleen Beyer

Recently, Dixon Bledsoe intimated that any reason to not get the COVID vaccine(s) is “misinformation.” The following are possible reasons not only of why someone might be hesitant to take the vaccines, but why someone might question “approved” sources.

The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System is the data capture method critical in cases where vaccines are still in their Phase 4 trial stage, as some of the COVID vaccines are. Society at large is participating this final trial. The deaths reported after receiving COVID vaccines in 2021 is greater than the deaths reported from all vaccines COMBINED over the last 30 years. Not only studies, but healthcare “whistleblowers” also attest to the fact that most (90% to 99%) of injuries from vaccines go unreported.    Read more... (646 words, estimated 2:35 mins reading time)

Project delayed – Silverton Road bridge won’t re-open ‘til late January

By James Day

Silverton-area residents who have gotten used to detours around the Silverton Road bridge project are going to have to hang in there for another two months.

Marion County officials originally hoped to open the bridge over the Little Pudding River between 60th Avenue and 64th Place by next week. However, utility issues and other “unforeseen delays” have changed that timeline to Jan. 31, said Steven Preszler, the project manager for the county.

Silverton Road remains closed to through traffic at Howell Prairie Road at the east end and Cordon Road on the west side. Motorists can continue to use the two main detours established by the county, Sunnyview Road and Hazelgreen Road.  Read more... (227 words, estimated 54 secs reading time)

Briseno power – Ball-carrier keeps Foxes offense balanced

When the football season started we knew that Silverton boasted some potent offensive weapons. Quarterback Jordan McCarty was back for his third season as a starter. Veteran wide receivers Vandon Fessler and Austin Ratliff also were on hand, as well as a sizable and seasoned offensive line. That left running back.

During fall camp fifth-year coach Josh Craig suggested it might be a “running back by committee” sort of approach, involving Jackson Pfeifer, Keegan Walter, James Toland and Alex Briseno. Then Pfeifer hurt his foot. Toland and Walter also were vital to the defensive effort as linebackers. That left Briseno, an unheralded 5-9, 150-pound junior, to assume the heavy lifting.  Read more... (685 words, 2 images, estimated 2:44 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Viola Kollen (March 8, 1927 – Oct. 31, 2021)

In Memoriam: Ruby H. Mattison (April 12, 1927 – Oct. 29, 2021)

Ruby H. Mattison passed away on Oct. 29, 2021 of cancer. She was born on April 12, 1927 in North Dakota. She moved with her parents, Knute and Lila Peterson, and her eight siblings to Hubbard, Oregon in the 1930s. In May of 1946, she married Victor Mattison, who preceded her in death.

In 1956, the couple moved to their home in Evans Valley, where they lived for 52 years.

She loved camping, fishing, family gatherings, neighbors, and friends.

She is survived by her four children: Dennis (Mary) Tucson, Arizona; Larry (Pam) Union, Oregon; Rhonda (Pierre), Montreal, Canada; and Greg (Joanne), Silverton, Oregon; her 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, whom she adored.  Read more... (167 words, estimated 40 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Jeff Hande (July 3, 1956 – Oct. 29, 2021)

Jeff Hande was born in Salem, on July 3, 1956. His parents were John Carleton “Jack” Hande and Donna Mae (Brandt) Hande. Jeff passed away Oct. 29, 2021 at the age of 65.

Jeff was handicapped physically and mentally, but there was no limit to his outgoing, jovial, loving sweet personality. He had limited ability to express himself with words, but when you got to know him, communication was much improved.

He lived in Salem, Brownsville, and Silverton, Oregon. Most of his life he was cared for in institutions. He was resident of Fairview Training Center until it downsized. He was then cared for in a group home for many years by the Catholic Community Services Paragon Program.   Read more... (265 words, estimated 1:04 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Callie Ann Jacobsen (July 5, 1937 – Oct. 31, 2021)

Callie Ann Jacobsen died peacefully in her home on Oct. 31, 2021 in Silverton, Oregon. She was 84.

Callie was born on July 5, 1937 in Silverton to parents John and Wilda Jacobsen. She had a long-time career in Office Administration, retiring in 2000.

Callie was a sweet, spunky, outgoing and an adventurous lady. She enjoyed a wide range of activities including rafting, hunting, dancing, traveling, painting, and going to her ranch in Eastern Oregon. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and friends.  Read more... (210 words, 1 image, estimated 50 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: James Alvin Roth (April 8, 1949 – Oct. 17, 2021)

Jim Roth was born to Alvin and Elizabeth Roth on April 8, 1949 in Silverton, Oregon. He passed away in the early morning hours on Oct. 17, 2021 at the age of 72. 

He went to elementary school at Silver Crest and attended Silverton Union High School where he participated in football, baseball and wrestling – where he finished his senior season as a state finalist. 

Jim received his Bachelor’s degree from Pacific University in 1972 where he wrestled, played football and golf. He received his Master’s in Education from Lewis and Clark University in 1977.   Read more... (229 words, 1 image, estimated 55 secs reading time)

People Out Loud: Exceptional experiment – Veterans, flags and corn bread stuffing

By the time this edition of Our Town is published, Veteran’s Day 2021 will be a thing of the past. Perhaps you bought the 9,000 thread count California King sheets at the “Massive Veteran’s Day Bedding Sale,” where they pretend to care about those who serve and served. Maybe you drove around town with your American Flag waving proudly from the bed of your F-150 or took your Pops to get free pie at the local café. Sure, I am a few days late, but my mind has been on vets a lot these days, and patriotism.  Read more... (661 words, 1 image, estimated 2:39 mins reading time)

Roth’s Fresh Markets sold – Canadian company pledges no change in local operations

The Roth’s market in Silverton. The nine-store group, which also includes a Stayton store, is being sold to a Canadian company.

By James Day

Maybe it was the white shirts and green bow ties. Or the way Roth’s always seemed to be involved in community affairs and causes. Or the tradition of an employee, often a student or teenager, always ferrying your groceries to your car.

Or maybe you ran into Orville Roth himself in the produce section or bagging and he gave you one of his patented arm squeezes.  Read more... (749 words, 1 image, estimated 3:0 mins reading time)

Subdivision OK’d – Council overrules earlier denial of Eureka Avenue project

A look at the property on Eureka Avenue in Silverton that a developer wants to subdivide into 22 lots. Absent appeals to the state, the project will go forward.

By James Day

A planned 22-lot subdivision near the Oregon Garden is closer to reality after the Silverton City Council voted 6-1 to approve the plan.

The council action on Oct. 4 overturned a decision to reject the plan on July 13 from the city’s Planning Commission. The council heard the developer’s appeal at its Sept. 13 meeting, then held a public hearing, deliberated and voted on Oct. 4.  Read more... (256 words, 1 image, estimated 1:01 mins reading time)

Trust hosts free community Thanksgiving

The Elizabeth Hoke Memorial Trust will provide a free community Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 25, 1 – 3 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N. Church St., Silverton. Due to COVID-19 precautions, it will be a drive through event.

Elizabeth was born on Sept. 12, 1999 in Silverton and spent her entire life living on her family’s farm. She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. Elizabeth graduated Valedictorian from Silverton High School in June 2017. She was killed in an automobile accident by a speeding, drunk driver while on her way to her first week of college at Western Oregon University. She planned to study biology.  Read more... (169 words, estimated 41 secs reading time)

Lunaria presents new show ‘Inspired’

Through the month of November, Lunaria Gallery in Silverton features Kara Pilcher on the main floor, plus the annual Member Holiday Gift Show will be held in the upstairs Loft Gallery.

Inspired by dance, grandchildren, the garden, and books, featured artist Kara Pilcher was motivated to try to capture an image with paint, usually watercolors. The result has been a stack of “starts”, some which have been patiently waiting for years. 

The show will be on view from Nov. 3 through 28, with a First Friday artist meet and greet on Nov. 5 from 7 – 9 p.m.  Read more... (153 words, estimated 37 secs reading time)

Taking care of a Wright – Grant boosts needed Gordon House upkeep

The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Gordon House was successfully moved to Silverton in 2001.

By Brenna Wiegand

Last month the Oregon Cultural Trust awarded the Gordon House Conservancy a grant of $13,325 toward ongoing preservation of the Frank Lloyd Wright designed home.

The money goes a long way toward funding the stabilization of a sagging 20-foot beam spanning its living room, thereby preserving the home’s structural integrity and protecting the Conservancy’s mission of educating the public about the only house in Oregon designed by the renowned architect.  Read more... (783 words, 2 images, estimated 3:08 mins reading time)

Unsung heroes – Author writes stories of Silverton’s first 100 years

Norman English with his book about Silverton

By Melissa Wagoner

Norman English didn’t set out to become a writer. But when he retired from a career as a Field Officer working for Workman’s Comp of Oregon 13 years ago, writing found him.

“I’ve always liked the process of writing,” English said. Recalling, “The first thing I printed was – we had a family reunion 20 years ago and leading up to it I thought, I want to write a book about family history. It was 100 pages or so and I really enjoyed that.”  Read more... (709 words, 1 image, estimated 2:50 mins reading time)

Not a stitch in sight – A pandemic hobby revives an old tradition

By Melissa Wagoner

When quarantine boredom came knocking during the spring of 2020, Adeline Schmitz and Jeff Marshall did something they never imagined they would do – they picked up paintbrushes and began to paint – barn quilts.

Barn Quilts artist Adeline Schmitz

Typically seen on barns, sheds, garages and even chicken coops – these large, wooden boards painted with brightly colored, often geometric designs have an estimated 300-year history on the east coast of the United States, especially among the Pennsylvania Dutch.  Read more... (832 words, 3 images, estimated 3:20 mins reading time)

Datebook: November 2021

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 Charles St.

Silveton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield, 503-873-3093. Age 50 and older.

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, 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

Mt. Angel Food Pantry, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 E Charles St. Repeats Wed. 503-845-6998  Read more... (2128 words, estimated 8:31 mins reading time)

Investing in community – Congressman visits Habitat site in Silverton

Congressman Kurt Schrader visits with the future homeowners of a house in the new North Willamette Habitat for Humanity development in Silverton.

Congressman Kurt Schrader made a trip to Silverton recently to tour the site of North Willamette Valley Habitat for Humanity’s planned development. 

This project is the largest to date for the affiliate, and is the first step in addressing a grave shortage of affordable housing for a diverse population within the community. Plans call for thedevelopment to be home to 18 local families, including members of the BIPOC, senior and veteran communities.  Read more... (158 words, 1 image, estimated 38 secs reading time)

The Comeback town – Mount Angel raises $50,000 for fire losses

The Mt. Angel community and its neighbors have rallied in support of the businesses affected by the Oct. 9 downtown fire.

By James Day

In those corny old black-and-white movies a bunch of kids (Mickey Rooney usually was involved) would at some point declare “Let’s put on a show!” 

Great energy would be expended and odds overcome as the spunky kids saved the day.

In Mount Angel, it’s a bit different. It’s more like “Let’s put on a festival!” Because that’s what Mount Angel does best, that’s what Mount Angel did.  Read more... (700 words, 1 image, estimated 2:48 mins reading time)

Prayers for the dead – All Souls Day begins a month of remembrance

For the Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel, November is the prayer month for remembering the deceased. 

Starting with All Souls Day, Nov. 2, through the First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 28, the Sisters will include in their prayers a remembrance of the deceased: community members, loved ones, friends, alumni and oblates. They also welcome requests to pray for the deceased friends and loved ones of others. 

Anyone can make a request by emailing benedictinefoundation@gmail.com or by calling 503-845-2556 and submitting the names to be included in the chapel’s prayer basket.  Read more... (447 words, estimated 1:47 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Dorothea ‘Eileen’ Lalicker (May 31, 1923 – Oct. 10, 2021)

Eileen Lalicker, 98, longtime Silverton, Oregon resident passed away on Oct. 10, 2021. She was born on May 31, 1923 in Hazelton, Kansas to Frank and Bessie (McMullin) Page, the oldest of five.

She graduated from Medicine Lodge High School in 1941. During her junior year, she met John Lalicker, and they were married on Aug. 3, 1943. John preceded her in death, on May 21, 2021.  Read more... (296 words, 1 image, estimated 1:11 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: William Mercer Harris IV (April 16, 1925 – Sept. 15, 2021)

William Mercer Harris IV, of Keizer, Oregon, died from pneumonia complications on Sept. 15 at 8:40 p.m. at his nephew’s home in Silverton, Oregon.

William was born in Georgeton, D.C., April 16, 1925 to Olive Ruth Martin Harris (1890-1964) and William Oscar Harris (1896-1991). 

He enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps at 17, receiving his Silver Pilot Wings in 1944 at Freemen Field, Seymour, Indiana. He received a bachelor’s degrees in horticulture and chemistry from the University of Maryland with a minor in animal husbandry, a math degree from Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and an engineering degree from the University of Wyoming in 1963.  Read more... (312 words, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Raymond Louis Rom (May 27, 1931 – Oct. 8, 2021)

Raymond Louis Rom was born on May 27, 1931 in Musselshell, Montana to Frank and Lucille Rom.  He died surrounded by family on Oct. 8, 2021. 

Ray grew up in Roundup, Montana. Growing up he developed a passion for big band and jazz music, starting his own band, The Red Hots, while in high school. He fought in the Korean War following high school and then attended the University of Montana, majoring in music where he met his wife, Donna.   Read more... (318 words, 1 image, estimated 1:16 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Kenneth Clair Robinson (May 28, 1935 – Sept. 25, 2021)

Kenneth Clair Robinson of Silverton, Oregon, died peacefully and without pain from kidney failure at home surrounded by his loving wife and two children.

Kenneth was born in Mansfield, Ohio on May 25, 1935 to Ethel Eloise Bond Robinson (1915-1990) and John Clair Robinson (1911-1978). An only child, Kenneth moved many times during his childhood with his parents, back and forth between Ohio, Florida, and California.   Read more... (295 words, 1 image, estimated 1:11 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: David Marion Kemper (Sept. 23, 1935 – Oct. 16, 2021)

David Marion Kemper passed away on Oct.16, 2021. David was born Sep. 23, 1935 at home outside Jefferson, Oregon to Robert and Pearl Kemper. He joined older brother, Robert (Bud) Jr. By the time David was in second grade the family had moved to the Silverton, Oregon area to be close to extended family.

While a freshman at Silverton High School, David met the love of his life, Marjorie Beasley. They were married August 21, 1955, eleven weeks after their high school graduation.  Read more... (300 words, 1 image, estimated 1:12 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Jennie Lee Peters (Jan. 19, 1936 – Sept. 13, 2021)

Jennie Lee Peters was born to John and Irma Schmidt on Jan. 19, 1936 in Goessel, Kansas. She died suddenly at home from an apparent heart attack on Sept. 13, 2021. 

Jennie was the second of four children and grew up on a farm near Newton, Kansas. This was during the Depression which made things difficult, but she never lacked food or love. She loved the farm and farm animals. She had her own beloved horse for many years.   Read more... (351 words, estimated 1:24 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Wendi Noel Lucarellie (Feb. 10, 1973 – Aug. 19, 2021)

Wendi Lucarellie was born in Mission Viejo, California eight minutes after her twin sister, Aimee.

Her childhood was spent in California where she attended Mission Hills Christian School and was then homeschooled through high school. She was an ‘A’ student. She later moved to Silverton, Oregon and attended beauty college, becoming a hair stylist for many years. She eventually moved to Salem, Oregon. Her children were always her top priority. She enjoyed collecting fairies, stitching embroidery and cooking. She loved celebrating and decorating with her children for the holidays.  Read more... (207 words, 1 image, estimated 50 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Donna Jo Antonson (June 24, 1940 – Sept. 18, 2021)

Donna Jo (DeGuire) Antonson, of Silverton, Oregon, passed away at home on Sept.  18, 2021 of natural causes.

She was born on June 24, 1940 to Donald and Josephine Sawyer. When Donna was six-years-old, Josephine married Elbert DeGuire, who later adopted her.

After graduating from Silverton High School in 1958, she attended dental technician school in San Francisco, California. After graduation, she moved back to Silverton where she married Jack Nusbaum on Oct. 1, 1960. They had three children, Jeffrey, Todd and Debbie.

In 1983, while working at Silverton High School as a teacher’s aide, Donna married Jack Antonson, high school teacher and athletic director.  Read more... (157 words, estimated 38 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Thomas William Scott (Dec. 7, 1932 – Oct. 18, 2021)

Thomas William (Bill) Scott, passed away peacefully on Oct. 18, 2021, under the care of hospice at Mount Angel Towers Health Center.

Bill was born on Dec. 7, 1932 in Greeley, Nebraska. The family moved to a farm in Mount Angel, Oregon when Bill was a young boy. He was the oldest of 13 brothers and sisters.

Later in life, Bill married Lois Ann Clark and they shared 50 years of marriage. They raised a family of one daughter and three sons, on a farm along the banks of Abiqua Creek which they were very proud of.  Read more... (197 words, 1 image, estimated 47 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Carolyn Berg (July 3, 1935 – Oct. 22, 2021)

Champs again! Foxes hold off West Albany in instant classic

When the football schedules come out you always circle the Silverton-West Albany match-up. The past 8 times the two teams have played, including Friday night’s 28-21 Foxes win at McGinnis Field, either a league title has been on the line or the game has been in the playoffs.

The two schools are 4-4 in those eight contests, with Silverton holding a 144-140 edge in points. The Foxes won the league title in 2018, the Bulldogs in 2019, with COVID wiping out the
2020 race.  Read more... (746 words, 4 images, estimated 2:59 mins reading time)

A Grin at the End: Algorithm monster – Pushing us to the edge on purpose

For six hours last month we were all safe. Safe from misinformation, safe from ads targeted at us. Safe from posts that were only there because someone paid for them.

Facebook and Instagram were offline.

How this happened is anyone’s guess. Facebook said the “configuration” got out of whack. That is IT talk for “I don’t know.” Someone at headquarters probably hit the wrong button.  Read more... (624 words, 1 image, estimated 2:30 mins reading time)

Looking to rebuild – Community regroups after destructive downtown fire

By James Day

Mount Angel is in recovery mode this week as the community reels from a devastating weekend fire that destroyed historic structures and four businesses.

The fire, which was called in just before 1 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, wiped out a highly visible swath of commercial property along the railroad tracks that separate the Mt. Angel Highway and Highway 214.

Destroyed in the fire were Hidden Bed of Oregon, the Blackbird Granary Antiques & Curiosities, KP Harvest Time Products and Wood Pellet Products.   Read more... (866 words, 8 images, estimated 3:28 mins reading time)

Witnessing an act of bravery

We all have a different image of what it means to be a hero. For some, it is a flying, caped super-human; for others, an inspiring ancestor whose legacy has shaped the lives of their family. In recent months, our healthcare workers have proven to be an army of heroes. For many of us, encountering a true hero in our day-to-day life is a rare and standalone experience and one that is impressed firmly into one’s heart. This past Saturday, amidst the smoke and flames of the historic Mount Angel blaze, over 120 heroes fought with all they had not only to save the buildings, businesses, and livelihoods of the affected parties, but to preserve the welfare of the town itself.  Read more... (359 words, estimated 1:26 mins reading time)

Unintended consequences – Vaccine mandate ends some careers

By Melissa Wagoner

When Robin Hyslop left her shoes on the sidewalk in front of Legacy Silverton on Sept. 30, she left behind a lot more than a pair of worn-out sneakers – she left behind a 33-year career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, coworkers she’s come to think of as family and trust in a system she feels has failed her.

“My life has altered greatly going forward,” she said. “And unfortunately, I’ve lost trust in the people who I thought I could trust – not local people but higher up, especially the government who are continuing to give these vaccines when they know they’re not safe.”  Read more... (1651 words, 2 images, estimated 6:36 mins reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters or a plumber?

I recently learned something rather astounding – if you ask for ghost stories, prepare for an onslaught. Houses, storefronts, restaurants, nursing homes – and apparently nearly every school in area – all come with a ghost story or two attached. And many of them took place in… bathrooms? 

Which prompts the question – why bathrooms? Because – and I don’t want to come off as a naysayer here – many ghosts appear to be infatuated with flushing toilets. Is it something to do with ease of use? The satisfying sound? Or is it simply old and leaky pipes?  Read more... (1792 words, 1 image, estimated 7:10 mins reading time)

The Noble Fox – Location mixes with vision to serve up a new dining experience

By Melissa Wagoner

When Jeramie Mykisen and his step-father Jeffrey Tinkham learned that the Silverton Wine Bar was for sale they instantly jumped at the chance to make it their own.

Jeramie Mykisen and Jeffrey Tinkham flank Chef, Andrew Banas, at the Noble Fox

“It was just too good to pass up,” Mykisen said. 

The previous beverage director for McMenamins and the author of the recipe book, Quintessential Cocktails, Mykisen knows a thing or two about how to make a bar a success. And the space, located in the center of downtown Silverton on the corner of Water and West Main streets, with balcony seating overlooking Silver Creek, was just begging him to work his magic.   Read more... (488 words, 1 image, estimated 1:57 mins reading time)

Live arts return – Albeit slowly, and with COVID-inspired caution

By Melissa Wagoner

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, in the spring of 2020, the students at Silverton Ballet and Performing Arts Company were weeks away from the annual spring recital. The culmination of months – if not years – of practice and hard work, it was never really an option to cancel the show. Instead, studio owner Paula Magee got creative, moving the performance to her own backyard and breaking it up into smaller groups. 

“It took four full days to get through every class, but the kids were so excited,” she recalled.  Read more... (773 words, estimated 3:06 mins reading time)

Not just coats – Winter wear collection keeps kids warm

By Melissa Wagoner

Right now, with schools finally back in session, many kids are spending more time outside for recess, PE and lunch, prompting teachers to send home reminders saying, “Don’t let your children forget their coats.”

But what if there are no coats to send? 

That’s where the annual Coats for Kids Winter Coat Drive comes in.

“It’s just something we’ve always thought is important,” Jan Holowati, Silverton Together Program Cooridnator said. The nonprofit organization started the annual drive more than 15 years ago.

“You want your kids to be warm… and they grow so fast,” she added.  Read more... (393 words, estimated 1:34 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Donald Lee Corsetti (May 9, 1947 – Sept. 29, 2021)

In Memoriam: Phyllis Kay Burk (Sept. 10, 1933 – Sept. 19, 2021)

Phyllis Kay Burk, born Sept. 10, 1933 in Brooklyn New York, died Sept. 19, 2021 in Silverton, Oregon at the age of 88. She was preceded in death by her husband Oliver Wendell Burk and sons Terry and David. She is survived by son, Steven (Cindy) Burk of Silverton; son, Mark (Lisa) Burk of Silverton; daughter, Lorraine (Rick) Bergerson of Henderson, Nevada; daughter, Joanne (Stuart) Hartley of Silverton; son, Glenn (Joni) Burk of Beaverton, Oregon; along with 25 grandchildren and 48 great grandchildren.

Phyllis spent most of her early years in Southern California. After starting their family in California, the couple moved to the Drakes Crossing area in the Silverton Hills, where Wendell operated a small market and Phyllis worked for the state of Oregon.  Read more... (198 words, 1 image, estimated 48 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Laura Gooley (April 19, 1929 – Oct. 1, 2021)

Laura Gooley, 92, of Mount Angel, Oregon passed away peacefully on Oct. 1, 2021 in her sleep at Mount Angel Towers where she had resided for many years.

Laura Davidson was born on April, 19, 1929 in St. Paul, Oregon to Edward and Eleanor (Kirk) Davidson. She was the fifth of seven children. She studied Home Economics at Marylhurst College.

Laura married Arthur Gooley of Mount Angel, on Nov. 17, 1951. They had five children. Laura and Art enjoyed 32 years before his passing in 1983 from cancer.  Read more... (239 words, 1 image, estimated 57 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Charles Noel Gardner (Oct. 24, 1935 – Sept. 20, 2021)

Charles Noel Gardner was born Oct. 24, 1935 to Gaylord and Evelyn (Gilman) Gardner in Belen, New Mexico. He passed away on Sept. 20, 2021, after having a massive stroke.

Noel and his four siblings grew up on a farm in Cortez, Colorado. Noel dedicated his life to the service of God. He went to a number of colleges and universities through the years, earning two Masters Degrees (Wheaton College and Northeastern State University). He spent his adult life as a teacher in primarily Christian schools. He was a principal and taught at Markoma Bible Academy in Tahlequah, Oklahoma for 15 years, after which he and his wife, Eleanor, and their three sons moved to the Los Angeles area where he taught at Whittier Christian School for 20 years, retiring in 2000. He remained an avid reader and life-long learner.  Read more... (286 words, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

Volleyball standouts – Foxes in three-way battle for league title

The Silverton High volleyball squad is locked in a three-way battle for the Mid-Willamette Valley Conference title – and state bragging rights as well.

At Our Town’s presstime the Foxes were 11-4 overall, 9-2 in league and ranked No. 3 in Class 5A. League foes West Albany (17-3, 11-0) and Crescent Valley (12-3, 8-2) are ranked No. 1 and No. 2, respectively.

“We’ve battled some fierce competition this season and our league has some of the best,” coach Kate O’Connor told Our Town. “This entire team brings the strength of flexibility, grit, tenacity, on top of being strong athletes.”  Read more... (738 words, 1 image, estimated 2:57 mins reading time)

Skate Park update: Groundbreaking held for expansion

By James Day

Backers of the expansion of the Judy Schmidt Memorial Skate Park held a groundbreaking Sept. 11 for the next phase of the project.

Actually breaking ground given the dry summer proved to be a challenge, so organizer Sue Roessler said she “had to bring potting soil to layer on top so we could at least ‘move some earth.’”

Jason Franz

Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer was on hand and noted that it was always the dream of Skate Park founder Jason Franz to add some “beginner components to help even the youngest skaters find their way into
the park.”  Read more... (210 words, 1 image, estimated 50 secs reading time)

People Out Loud: Unequivocal – You have a choice on vaccinations, your employer does too

Social Media is rife with misinformation, especially in the chaos of COVID. 

Lazy people use it as their “research.” VAERS is the “Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System”, a reporting system co-managed by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). People grab stats at random from VAERS and then perpetuate inaccurate data to anyone who will listen. 

The truth is this – VAERS collects data and does not necessarily verify its validity. One claim made is that “There have been more deaths from COVID-19 vaccines than deaths from the actual virus.” SNOPES, the well-known and independent fact-checking site, rates that as 100% false, yet there are still idiots pushing that nonsense.   Read more... (897 words, 1 image, estimated 3:35 mins reading time)

Water dilemmas – Mitigating Oregon’s continuing drought

By Melissa Wagoner

It can be difficult to remember, as the fall rains roll into the Willamette Valley, that the area is still experiencing a severe and widespread drought.

“This is the second year of an extensive drought so it’s double bad,” Jan Lee, Executive Director of the Oregon Association of Conservation Districts – an organization representing 45 conservation districts throughout the state – confirmed. “One of the problems is record low water levels.”

Decreased rain, diminished snowpack, lower than normal river levels – are all symptoms that are easy to see and easy to track. But what’s not so readily apparent is what lies beneath the surface.  Read more... (1129 words, estimated 4:31 mins reading time)

Development appeal – Council to consider subdivision on Eureka Avenue

By James Day

The Silverton City Council will hold a public hearing on an appeal of a proposal for a 22-lot subdivision on Eureka Avenue near the Oregon Garden.

The city Planning Commission denied the proposal at its July 13 meeting, but the property owner has appealed that decision to the council, which will hear it at its 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 4, meeting.

The developer, Charles Weathers of Orreo, LLC in Salem, wants to divide the 5.15-acre parcel into 22 lots, ranging in size from 6,345 square feet to 18,949 square feet.  Read more... (243 words, 1 image, estimated 58 secs reading time)

Modernly traditional – New Silverton practice provides pediatric care

By Melissa Wagoner

Scott Hamblin

Mark Helm

The recent closure of the Silverton branch of Childhood Health left Silverton families without a locally-based pediatric clinic – an situation Dr. Scott Hamblin and Dr. Mark Helm are determined to remedy.

“Scott and I didn’t want to give up the care of the kids in this area,” Helm, who worked alongside Hamblin at Childhood Health, said. “We enjoyed working in a small office. It was a really nice, smaller, calmer, easier to manage. It’s a friendlier, happier place to be than a large, stressful environment. So, we said, ‘We can make this work.’”  Read more... (632 words, 2 images, estimated 2:32 mins reading time)

Dialectical therapy – Individual, group, coaching, in-the-moment services

By Melissa Wagoner

Dr. Andrew Weitzman

During his 20-year career as a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Andrew Weitzman learned a great deal.

“Of those 20 years, my first seven were in community health in Vancouver, Washington,” Weitzman said of the time he spent working in drug and alcohol treatment. “Then I got a job at the state hospital for 13 years.”

These environments provided Weitzman with the experience he needed to work with a range of mental health issues, both in a hospital setting as well as in a clinic. But there was one thing no amount of on-the-job experience could prepare him for – the life altering loss of his sight.  Read more... (840 words, 1 image, estimated 3:22 mins reading time)

Soundscape – Shindig returns to delight town

By Melissa Wagoner

When Nicholas Alan Coffey moved to Silverton six years ago, the annual Sidewalk Shindig was one of his favorite events. 

“You can have fun for free, you can bring the whole family and you can hangout for free all day,” Coffey said of the city-wide music festival Oct. 2 which will host 40 musical groups from blues, reggae and jazz to country, folk, rock and more on the sidewalks of Silverton.

“And it’s good quality!” he continued. 

Originating 10 years ago – when its predecessor, the Silverton Wine and Jazz Festival came to an end – the Shindig was the brainchild of Greg Hart, a local entrepreneur and musician.   Read more... (583 words, 1 image, estimated 2:20 mins reading time)

Datebook: October 2021

Datebook Submission Information

To get your events and fundraisers published in Our Town send releases to datebook@mtangelpub.com. Or drop them off at 401 Oak St., Silverton.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Frequent Addresses

Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 Charles St.

Silveton High, 1456 Pine St., Silverton.

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield, 503-873-3093. Age 50 and older.

Silver Creek Fellowship,
822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton.

Weekly Events

Monday

SACA Food Pantry, 9 a.m. – noon, SACA, 421 S Water St., Silverton. Repeats Thursdays. 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org  Read more... (1981 words, estimated 7:55 mins reading time)

Early experience – Health Occupations class gives high schoolers insight into careers

By Melissa Wagoner

Health Occupations student, America Blaser, Instructor Geralyn Sheets and former student Vanessa Meraz

Even in high school Vanessa Meraz knew she wanted to go into healthcare.

“Growing up I was very close to my grandparents and my grandma taught us that each of us had a talent that can be used to do good,” Meraz recalled. “I noticed science was the main subject that I enjoyed.” 

With this in mind, Meraz turned her sights on becoming a doctor, enrolling in Silverton High School’s Health Occupations course as an initial step in that direction. And that’s when she made an important discovery – she didn’t want to be a doctor at all.  Read more... (783 words, 1 image, estimated 3:08 mins reading time)

Back to school rhythm – SHS’ principal discusses challenges, effort in opening weeks of semester

By Brenna Wiegand

Only two weeks of school had elapsed when Our Town touched base with Silverton High School Principal Sione Thompson, in his first year with the Silver Falls School District.

“It’s been quite a trial by fire but what makes it all worthwhile is that these are just terrific people,” he said. “They are kind and compassionate with the family values of caring about kids’ well-being and seeing they get a high level of education.”  Read more... (751 words, 1 image, estimated 3:00 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Marie Delia Garrow McCarty (June 29, 1918 – Sept.12, 2021)

Marie Delia Garrow was born in Portland, Oregon, to Veva (née Portwood) and Leo Garrow. Growing up in a lively Portland neighborhood, she attended St. Stephen’s for all 12 of her school years. Her father’s relatives, with their French-Belgian heritage, welcomed her on visits to their farm in Reedville, Oregon. After graduation she enjoyed working at for a time at Montgomery Wards.  

While visiting her mother’s relatives in Condon, eastern Oregon, Marie accepted an invitation to a rodeo with Vere McCarty. He came to the city to see her, they became engaged, married in 1941 and started a family.    Read more... (277 words, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Marlin Hutton – Celebration of Life

Marlin Hutton passed away Feb. 2, 2020. His family will be holding a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021 at the Gallon House Farm Event Center, 7263 Gallon House Road NE, Silverton at 11 a.m. All family and friends welcome.
Call 503-875-4042 for more information.

In Memoriam: Joseph Robert Schwab (March 13, 1941 – Aug. 25, 2021)

Joseph Robert Schwab passed away peacefully in his home on Aug. 25, 2021 at age 80 after a brave fight with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife of 59 years, Evelyn, and his three children, Greg, Kris and Tom. Joe was literally and figuratively larger than life. 

After serving his country for eight years in the Air Force, he became a dedicated Oregon State Police Trooper and Game Warden in 1969 and had a career that spanned 25 years, retiring as a Lieutenant in 1994.   Read more... (286 words, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

Return of the zombies: Dancers needed for Thriller in the Streets

By Melissa Wagoner 

What says Halloween more than a flash-mob of zombies jerkily dancing to Michael Jackson’s classic song from 1982, Thriller?

“It’s so cool,” Marta Hazekamp – owner of Revolutionary Dance and Movement Company in Silverton – said of the annual performance which will be making a comeback this Halloween.

“So many people were so excited to see it return,” she continued, estimating the last performance as 2014, when it became difficult to recruit dancers for the community-powered show. 

“If Halloween fell on a weeknight, we got progressively less people,” she recalled.  Read more... (436 words, estimated 1:45 mins reading time)

Soccer hopefuls: Foxes’ squads set to begin league play

Mid-Willamette Conference plays gets underway for the Silverton soccer squads this week, with both teams hoping to be contenders in the tough Class 5A league.

The boys squad is 3-0-2 and ranked No. 4 in Class 5A.  The girls are 1-2-1 but have had to cope with the loss of three scheduled matches because of COVID protocols.

Boys coach Marty Limbird has 11 returning players and nine newcomers, which he told Our Town “makes for a young, or fairly inexperienced team where we are leaning on the returning players a lot.”  Read more... (879 words, 3 images, estimated 3:31 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: October 2021

Thursday, Sept. 2

Boys Soccer

4 p.m. Silverton vs Thurston/Mohawk

Friday, Oct. 1

Football

7 p.m. Silverton vs
Crescent Valley

Thursday,
Oct. 5

Boys Soccer

7 p.m. Silverton vs Woodburn

Wednesday, Oct. 6

Cross Country

4 p.m. Silverton, Kennedy @ Willamette Mission State Park

Thursday,
Oct. 7

Volleyball

6 p.m. Silverton vs Lebanon

Boys Soccer

6 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas

Football

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Regis

Monday,
Oct. 11

Girls Soccer

4:15 p.m. Kennedy/Salem Academy vs Amity/Western Christian  Read more... (252 words, estimated 1:00 mins reading time)

A Grin at the End: Crypto creeps – Hidden for a reason

The other day I was hanging off a ladder trying to patch a leak in the gutter over our garage doors. It had leaked for 11 years, but this was the moment I chose to fix it. One of my weapons of choice was some thick, industrial-strength waterproof tape. I figured if I used enough of it, anything could be made waterproof.

Except for one thing. I applied this magic tape with my bare hands. Pretty soon, there I was. My right hand was hermetically sealed to the gutter. I couldn’t peel off the tape. I couldn’t get down from the ladder. I was stuck, literally.  Read more... (618 words, 1 image, estimated 2:28 mins reading time)

New chapter – Sheltering Silverton regroups following founder’s accident

By Melissa Wagoner

Rob and Trish Ambrose, along with newly hired, Hannah Paysinger, make up Sheltering Silverton’s new case management team

When Sarah White created, and later became the director of, Sheltering Silverton – a resource center advocating for those who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless – she already knew that someday she would leave the day-to-day operations for a more advisory position. 

“We had been working on an exit strategy that was going to take a year,” Hilary Dumitrescu, vice president of the organization’s board, said of the long-term plan she and White established.  Read more... (1158 words, 1 image, estimated 4:38 mins reading time)

What ‘purly’ teeth – Knitters Raised by Wolves give back to community

By Melissa Wagoner

Knitters Raised by Wolves

When Celia Stapleton named her knitting group Knitters Raised by Wolves, she had one thing in mind. 

“The point is, children that were raised by wolves are feral – and we’re not nice ladies,” Stapleton laughed. Noting that the group isn’t a quiet bunch – at least not entirely. They knit, they crochet, they tat, they embroider and more than anything else they talk and laugh.

“The stories that they tell are something else,” member Vivienne Frankel agreed.  Read more... (516 words, 1 image, estimated 2:04 mins reading time)

Oktoberfest 2021: Planning a big festival during the age of COVID-19

Much of the Mount Angel Oktoberfest can be enjoyed out of doors along the village streets, or in tents.

The familiar Oktoberfest venues will be up and running for the 2021 festival, some with new attrac- tions and activities.

By Melissa Wagoner

There have been a lot of sleepless nights for Oktoberfest board members since the COVID numbers began climbing in mid-July because, by then, planning for Mount Angel’s annual festival was well underway and organizers – having spent hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars in planning – were loath to pull the plug.   Read more... (1312 words, 2 images, estimated 5:15 mins reading time)

Kids Polka Party – Beloved O’fest entertainer adds new event for 2021

By Melissa Wagoner

The Astorga Family

“The Mount Angel Oktoberfest has always been a family-friendly, multi-generational festival,” Tecie Zollner Astorga said. 

And she should know, a member of the popular Oktoberfest band, Z Musikmakers, she has performed on stage alongside her family since she was a small child. 

“I’ve been a part of Z Musikmakers since I could walk,” Astorga confirmed, “singing on stage with my sisters while my dad played accordion and my mom played the piano. This will be my 33rd year entertaining at Mount Angel Oktoberfest.”  Read more... (442 words, 1 image, estimated 1:46 mins reading time)

Paper master: Borland Gallery features scissor artist, author Jim Bornzin

By Brenna Wiegand

Jim Bornzin

Swallowtail on Pink & White

Silverton Arts Association is featuring the work of local artist Jim Bornzin, whose show, “Amazing Scissorcuts,” runs Sept. 10-26 at the Borland Gallery.

Bornzin became fascinated with the German art form of scissor cutting in high school after observing his cousin’s grandfather, Hans Bittner of Chicago, cutting an intricate design on paper using a small pair of scissors.

The well-known silhouette artist and commercial illustrator explained to Bornzin that scherenschnitte is an Old-World art that began as silhouettes and evolved into detailed scenes.    Read more... (669 words, 2 images, estimated 2:41 mins reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: A little messy, but… Getting kids into the kitchen well worth the effort

Sarah DeSantis has been cooking with her son, Oliver, since he was a toddler. 

“I grew up with home cooked meals and want my kids to learn to cook and eat in the same way,” DeSantis said when asked what inspired her to teach such a young child to cook. “It’s also something I enjoy doing. So, to be able to include my kids in the cooking and baking process gives us more time together.”

Because, although it was originally just DeSantis and Oliver in the kitchen, the lessons have recently expanded, with younger brother, Linden – two and a half – helping to fill pots, add simple ingredients and give things a stir.   Read more... (1088 words, 1 image, estimated 4:21 mins reading time)

Giving thanks: Oregon Ag Prayer Breakfast takes root

By Melissa Wagoner 

Say the word, “thanksgiving” and many images come to mind – turkey, football and pumpkin pie among them. But look the word up in the dictionary and you’ll find less about food, sports or history and more about the acknowledgement of goodness, “the act of giving thanks” and “a prayer expressing gratitude.” Those terms which could also be used to describe the upcoming Oregon Ag Prayer Breakfast.

“This is a harkening back to when we stopped to reflect on really all we do have,” Oregon hazelnut grower Tim Aman said. The gathering will take place Sept. 21 at 8 a.m. near Tangent.   Read more... (333 words, estimated 1:20 mins reading time)

Lunaria exhibits celebrate elegance and agriculture

Lunaria Main Floor Gallery presents the show, Artful Elegance, by featured artists Rebecca Cozart and Linda Jacobson Sept. 29 – Oct. 31. 

Rebecca Cozart captures eclectic, colorful images ranging from still-life photos to florals to food. Linda Jacobson creates intricate fabric wall pieces. Together they created beautiful silk and velvet scarves. 

Rebecca printed 12 of her images on luxurious silk and Linda added dyed devore velvet, fringe and beads which resulted in one-of-a-kind works of wearable art.

Lunaria Loft Gallery presents the show, A Celebration of Art and Agriculture, by How We Grow Our Food  Read more... (185 words, estimated 44 secs reading time)

Fast start: Openers show promise

Will Silverton High senior quarterback Jordan McCarty explode for nearly 400 yards of total offense every Friday? Who knows, but it should be a fun ride.

McCarty threw for 322 yards and one touchdown and scrambled for 66 more yards and two more scores on Sept. 3 as the Foxes thrashed Class 6A Grant of Portland 41-7 in their opener at McGinnis Field. Silverton, no. 4 in Class 5A, took on Tualatin, No. 4 in 6A, after Our Town presstime.  Read more... (714 words, 1 image, estimated 2:51 mins reading time)

Waiting game: Hope for a match

By Melissa Wagoner 

Yard signs are pretty common but the one in Glen Hammer’s yard isn’t. It reads: “I need a kidney. Can you help?”

It’s blunt and to the point because Hammer – at 72 and suffering from late-stage polycystic kidney disease – can’t afford to beat around the bush. 

“I have masses of cysts on my kidneys,” Hammer said of the disease which interrupts the flow of blood, decreasing kidney function and eventually leading to failure. 

It’s grim diagnoses and one Hammer has lived with for nearly 50 years.  Read more... (676 words, estimated 2:42 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Donald Leroy Olson (May 20, 1931 – Aug. 22, 2021)

Donald (Don) Leroy Olson was born on a farm in Long Prairie, Minnesota on May 20, 1931, to Paul and Agnes Olson.
He passed away at age 90 in Silverton, Oregon, Aug. 22, 2021.

After graduating from Sequoia High School in Long Prairie in 1949, Don left the farm and joined the U.S. Navy training as an aviation electrician in Jacksonville, Florida. He was soon transferred to the West Coast where he met Betty Jean Ruth in San Jose, California. Don was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1952 and married the love of his life, Betty, Oct. 30, 1953.  Read more... (215 words, 1 image, estimated 52 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Jean Elaine Fennimore (June 19, 1934 – Aug. 24, 2021)

Jean Elaine Fennimore passed away Aug. 24, 2021 in Mount Angel.

She was born to Lester and Edna Dowe in Brooks, Oregon on June 19, 1934. On June 19, 1954, she married Edgar J. Fennimore, and together they built and maintained a beautiful family and relationship that lasted over six decades. She enjoyed traveling, playing cards with friends, slot machines and mostly spending time with her family.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents, her husband; brothers, Gerald, Timothy, and Dennis; baby granddaughter, Barbara Jean; and daughter-in-law, Juanita. She is survived by her children, Michael (Judy) of Aloha, Patrick of Silverton, Melodee (Dan) Corgan of Salem, and Ted of Salem; her brothers, Ron and Kim; sisters, Betty and Judy; 19 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.  Read more... (153 words, 1 image, estimated 37 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Jean Marie Vargo-Smith (Aug. 12, 1949 – Aug. 17, 2021)

Jean Vargo-Smith passed away peacefully on Aug. 17 at the age of 72 in Woodburn, Oregon. She was born on Aug. 12, 1949 to Mortimer and Lila Collis in Stockton, California.

Some of Jean’s hobbies included gardening and painting rocks. Jean enjoyed being a pre-school teacher at Benedictine Nursing Center.

Jean is survived by her husband of
10 1/2 years, Ronnie William Smith of Woodburn Oregon; her children, Isobel, Michael and Brian; mother, Lila; sister, Pam; and two grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her father Mortimer.  Read more... (129 words, 1 image, estimated 31 secs reading time)

In Memoriam: Shawn Heath Lafollette (March 28, 1971 – Aug. 14, 2021)

On Aug. 14, 2021, Shawn Heath Lafollette passed away peacefully. His immediate family was at his bedside in Salem Hospital. Shawn was 50 when he lost his lengthy battle with health issues.

Shawn began his life on March 28, 1971, at Salem General Hospital. His family lived in the Waldo Hills area, just outside of Silverton. He was very curious and inquisitive about everything as a little boy. Shawn played summer ball for three years, and he loved family camping trips.  Read more... (295 words, estimated 1:11 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: Balancing act – Oktoberfest, school, life and COVID

It is so difficult being a writer, even one throwing out unsolicited opinions just once a month. There is a natural flow of subjects that occur annually, starting with New Year’s resolutions and ending with taking the tree down as Santa heads to the tropics for a well-earned rest.

There is Valentine’s Day, Easter, Tax Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and on and on. They are always good for a column or two. But now, it’s different. Things have changed, become a bit disorienting, and always seems to have a caveat or asterisk.  Read more... (654 words, 1 image, estimated 2:37 mins reading time)

Through the flames: Silverton nurse recalls 2020 ordeal in canyon blaze

By Melissa Wagoner

Silver Falls State Park — courtesy of Jason Wagoner

When Holly Perez and her 16-year-old son, Sam, decided to get away for a couple of nights over Labor Day in 2020, they planned to do some swimming and enjoy the end of summer sun before school started up once again. What they didn’t anticipate was how their trip would end.

“I had no idea there was even the possibility of a wind storm,” Perez, a nurse in Salem, said of their first day of vacation, during which Detroit Lake was packed with vacationers enjoying the late summer sun under an only mildly smoky sky.   Read more... (1197 words, 3 images, estimated 4:47 mins reading time)

Renewal: Fire can mean a resurgence for natural landscape, wildlife

By Melissa Wagoner

Angel’s Rest in the Columbia Gorge –courtesy of Ralph Bloemers

“The question – what happens after a fire? – is an important question,” retired US Forest Service Fire Ecologist Jane Kertis said when asked about 2020’s Beachie Creek Fire.  It, along with the Lionshead Fire, burned through the Santiam Canyon last Labor Day leaving many favorite parks still closed for recovery.

Kertis thinks the question of how different types of land recovers from wildfire is so important that she based the entirety of her 30-year career on discovering the answer.   Read more... (1694 words, 2 images, estimated 6:47 mins reading time)

One year later: Santiam Canyon relief prepares for long-term assistance

By Melissa Wagoner

Recovering from a disaster like the one that devastated the Santiam Canyon during the Labor Day fires in 2020 is neither quick nor easy, a reality that was recognized early by the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund (SCWRF) Advisory Committee, a nonprofit established on Sept. 11, 2020 to support the recovery and rebuilding of those communities most affected by the fire. 

“As of July 7, $1,015,337 has been distributed to support the Santiam Canyon residents affected by the September 2020 wildfires,” SCWRF Advisory Committee Member and Santiam Canyon Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) Executive Team member Deana Freres said of the effort’s success thus far.   Read more... (806 words, estimated 3:13 mins reading time)

Faster, faster, faster – Ziply plans for local fiber Internet upgrade

By Mary Owen

When Ziply Fiber acquired Frontier Communication’s Northwest assets in May of 2020, Silverton and Mill City became part of its footprint.

“At the time of the acquisition, the only internet option was DSL, and that’s something we are working hard to change,” said Dan Miller, senior vice president of Curator which handles public relations for the Washington-based Internet company. 

“We believe closing the digital divide is critical, ensuring high-speed broadband is available to our customers regardless of whether you live in highly populated urban center or a smaller rural town.”  Read more... (854 words, estimated 3:25 mins reading time)

Datebook: September 2021

Datebook Submission Information

Get your events and fundraisers published in Our Town. Send your releases to datebook@mtangelpub.com. Or drop them off at 401 Oak St., Silverton.

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Frequent Addresses

Mount Angel Public Library,
290 Charles St., 503-845-6401

Silver Creek Fellowship Church,
822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton

Silverton Senior Center, 115 Westfield, 503-873-3093. Age 50 and older.

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... (1734 words, estimated 6:56 mins reading time)

Dialing in: Silverton’s Wind Phone provides place to release grief, trauma

By Melissa Wagoner

Mike Ashland with the current incarnation of the Wind Phone booth

Mike Ashland has witnessed a lot of grief during his career as a pastor and the founder of the Church of the Moment, a nondenominational church in Silverton. And over the years – as he has attended funerals, hospice care and acted as a witness to life’s inherent traumas –
he has come to recognize that there are very few outlets available to those struggling with the effects of grief. Which is why he was so excited when he heard about the Wind Phone.  Read more... (570 words, 1 image, estimated 2:17 mins reading time)

Grit and Grace: New apothecary brings herbs, herbal teachings

By Melissa Wagoner

Amanda Baird of Grit and Grace Apothecary

Few things make a parent feel more anxious than watching a child’s late-night struggle for breath, a situation Amanda Baird – whose son, Jacob, was born three and a half weeks premature and with significant lung damage – is accustomed to avoiding at all cost. 

“We had him on daily steroids and rescue inhalers and the nebulizer,” Baird said of the early years of Jacob’s life. “We were giving him all these medications that were terrible for him and he wasn’t better. But breathing is a big deal.”  Read more... (773 words, 1 image, estimated 3:06 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Hank Dill (Dec. 29, 1977 – Aug. 14, 2021)

In Memoriam: Ronald Joseph Schmidt (Jan. 24, 1935 – Aug. 17, 2021)

In Memoriam: Virginia Groah (Feb. 28, 1925 – Aug. 17, 2021)

Virginia Irene McIlwain Groah was born on Feb. 28, 1925 in Silverton, Oregon in the old hospital on North Water Street. Her childhood was spent on the McIlwain Farm in the North Howell area near Labish Lake. She attended North Howell School as did her father and grandmother. 

In her teen years she worked in the family onion fields and later weeded and helped harvest onions for the Hayes farms. In 1941 she was attending Silverton High School when she met Glenn Groah, a fellow student. They were married while still in school and got caught up in World War II. Glenn worked in the Kaiser shipyards while Virginia became a homemaker and mother.   Read more... (269 words, 1 image, estimated 1:05 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Alan Haslebacher (May 22, 1930 – Aug. 8, 2021)

Edward Alan Haslebacher (Alan), was born to Edward and Mabel Haslebacher and grew up on the family farm on Howell Prairie. After serving in the Navy, he married the girl next door (literally), Patricia Ann Hynes. They lived on the family farm raising three children and creating memories over their 70 years of marriage. 

Alan passed away surrounded by his loving family and caregivers. He is survived by his wife Patty, daughter Jill Rogers of Stayton, sons Craig Haslebacher (Michelle) of Kennewick, Washington and Kevin Haslebacher (Karen) of Colfax, California. He is also survived by five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Mabel, son-in-law Gary Rogers, and granddaughter Heather Edwards. 

In Memoriam: James Steuart (Dec. 30, 1940 – Aug. 9, 2021)

James William (Bud) Steuart was born on Dec. 30, 1940 to Ralph and Elsie Madge Steuart in Exeter, California. He passed away on Aug. 9, 2021 at the age of 80.

Memorial services were held on Aug. 26 at his home in Silverton (Unger Funeral Chapel assisting) and another on Aug. 27 at the Smith Family Chapel in Exeter, California, with a reception immediately following, in the Exeter Courthouse Museum and Gallery.

For a full obituary, visit www.ungerfuneralchapel.com.

A Slice of the Pie: Lunch packing tips – Make it fun, fast and resourceful

For many parents, it’s been a while since they packed a school lunch. With the majority of students attending school remotely or in half-day increments last year, more often than not, kids were eating at home. 

But no more. With the first day of in-person school looming on the horizon, it’s time to dust off those lunch boxes, throw some freezer packs in the deep freeze and load the pantry with staples like pita chips, granola bars and sandwich bread.

Or – if you’re really feeling rusty – implement some of these handy tips. 

Plan ahead  Read more... (696 words, 2 images, estimated 2:47 mins reading time)

Legacy Silverton Medical Center professionals support vaccination

Your local medical community would like to publicly announce our support for vaccination against COVID-19.   We have all received the vaccine and encouraged all of our eligible family members to be vaccinated. The available vaccines are safe, rigorously studied, well tested, and highly effective at preventing severe disease and death.  We are in an unprecedented state of crisis which has dramatically worsened with the Delta variant. There is a severe shortage of open hospital beds throughout the state and the country which is only getting worse. We have very limited treatment options for COVID and prevention is no doubt the best for everyone. We would like to urge every eligible community member to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Whatever your motivation: self-preservation, patriotic concern for your country, protection of your loved ones or to prevent shutting down our economy and schools – PLEASE GET VACCINATED!  Read more... (398 words, estimated 1:36 mins reading time)

Football frenzy – Foxes, Trojans getting ready for openers

Silverton was 3-2 in last spring’s shortened football season and the Foxes are hoping for a full nine-game regular season – and perhaps success beyond that point as well, starting with the Sept. 3 home opener against Grant of Portland.

Fifth-year coach Josh Craig noticed a surge of energy, particularly after the state opened up from COVID restrictions June 30.

“By the first or second week of July,” Craig told Our Town, “it’s here we go, we’re rolling. The energy increased, we’re really pushing it, the guys are having fun, getting after it and flying around and the seniors are leading by example.”  Read more... (587 words, 3 images, estimated 2:21 mins reading time)

Sports Datebook: September 2021 – All home games

Thursday, Sept. 2

Boys Soccer

4 p.m. Silverton vs Thurston/Mohawk

Friday, Sept. 3

Football

7 p.m. Silverton vs Grant

Thursday, Sept. 9

Volleyball

4 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas

6 p.m. Silverton v South Albany

Girls Soccer

7 p.m. Silverton vs Scappoose

Friday, Sept. 10

Football

7 p.m. Kennedy vs Santiam Christian

Thursday, Sept. 14

Volleyball

6 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis

Wednesday, Sept. 15

Cross Country

TBA Silverton, Kennedy @ Silver Falls Oktobertfest Invitational

Thursday, Sept. 16

Girls Soccer  Read more... (151 words, estimated 36 secs reading time)

A Grin at the End: Faster, higher, stronger – Oregon style

The Olympics have been over for some time now, but I’m not over the Olympics. The thrill of victory – and the agony of defeat – played out on an international stage is the best way I know to recognize our commonality. We are, after all, passengers on a single lonely planet amid billions of galaxies.

To keep that spirit alive, I propose a new type of Olympics. The main difference: only Oregonians can compete in these games because only we can understand them.

Welcome to the Oregon Olympics!  Read more... (552 words, 1 image, estimated 2:12 mins reading time)

Water woes – Silverton restricts residential use, adds enforcement

By James Day

The City of Silverton has responded to this year’s drought by advancing its restrictions on residential water use, a decision that has inflamed social media and led the mayor to take to Facebook to respond to the criticism.

The City Council at its Aug. 2 meeting took the city to Level 2 of its water curtailment policy, which limits lawn watering to every other day and bans car washing and power-washing decks or patios.   Read more... (545 words, estimated 2:11 mins reading time)

Falls café reopens – Under new management

By Melissa Wagoner

Char Hawkins has been managing snack bars for 23 years but her newest venture, the South Falls Café, located inside the South Falls Lodge at Silver Falls State Park, surpasses all the rest – especially when it comes to ambiance. 

“It’s beautiful out here,” Hawkins confirmed. “The fresh air, trees and birds. I leave my stress behind as I get closer and closer to the park each day.”  Read more... (417 words, estimated 1:40 mins reading time)

Steadfast transition – Emily Dazey leaves Benedictine Nursing Center

By Brenna Wiegand

Emily Dazey

Emily Dazey, Executive Director of Providence Benedictine Nursing Center in Mount Angel, will be moving into a broader role as Providence Director of the Skilled Nursing Facility Collaborative for Oregon.

Dazey, who has served at the Mount Angel campus for 26 years, will now serve in a regional capacity on behalf of the Providence hospitals with the primary goal of easing patients’ transitions from hospital to other settings.

Dazey will continue to support the skilled nursing center in Mount Angel in planning efforts and provide guidance for her replacement, once chosen.  Read more... (738 words, 1 image, estimated 2:57 mins reading time)

Recreating repose – Storm-damaged trees removed at Providence

By Brenna Wiegand

The feeling of serenity on the campus of Providence Mt. Angel Skilled Nursing Center is – was – owed largely to the stands of mature oaks and other trees that seem to stretch out their arms to shelter and to heal.

The ice storm changed all that, devastating the trees and damaging roofs around the nursing center building.

“There was not any ground that wasn’t covered with huge limbs,” outgoing Executite Director Emily Dazey said. “We haven’t been able to use our therapy garden since February; it’s been closed along with parts of our outdoor patios.  Read more... (400 words, 2 images, estimated 1:36 mins reading time)

A Slice of the Pie: Keep cool – Tips on how to counteract the extreme heat

By Melissa Wagoner

June came in like a lamb this year and went out like a… dragon? It broke records across the state with temperatures in Salem reaching a whopping 117. Then the area had the hottest July on record… And then the August heat dome hit, again threatening triple-digit days.

Those kind of temperatures may be expected in Arizona, where the average June temperature is 105. But in Oregon, where June averages 74 and even July is only 83, many homes – and homeowners – just aren’t prepared.   Read more... (678 words, 1 image, estimated 2:43 mins reading time)

‘We have to get it right’ – Silverton High School’s new principal

By Brenna Wiegand

Silverton High School principal
Sione Thompson

Though Hawaii born and raised, the pandemic spurred Sione Thompson to move to the mainland and become Silverton High School’s new principal.

“I have a lot of family on the West Coast,” Thompson said. “I also have four children: two in grade school, one in high school and another in college. Dawn and I agreed that we want to make sure kids of the next generation know their family.”

Thompson’s siblings live here, and his father is the eldest of 15 who all settled in the area.  Read more... (759 words, 1 image, estimated 3:02 mins reading time)

Positive challenges: Mt. Angel School District’s new superintendent

By Brenna Wiegand

New Mt. Angel SD Superintendent Rachel Stucky

Rachel Stucky takes the helm as Mt. Angel School District’s new superintendent, taking over for Troy Stoops who stepped down at the end of the last school year after filling the role for ten years.

Stucky spent the last five years in the Sweet Home School District as chief academic officer and is eager to bring her skills and experience to Mount Angel.  Read more... (587 words, 1 image, estimated 2:21 mins reading time)

Straw bound: Silverton publisher releases new books

By Melissa Wagoner

Richard Orr

Lester Petrie

Mike Ashland has always been a writer. 

“I was a freelance reporter for the Marin Independent Journal and reporter for the Coastal Post in Bolinas,” Ashland recalled. “Some of my poetry and short stories showed up in quite a few national mags.”

Then in 1992, he fell in love with publishing.

“Using my experience and connections, I helped a number of people publish their books, editing, setting the type and format and printing using both US and overseas printers,” Ashland said of his early experiences helping writers self-publish, a hobby which continued when he and his wife, Judy, moved to Silverton.  Read more... (885 words, 2 images, estimated 3:32 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Ina “Sue” Crouse (June 25, 1933 – May 20, 2021) William “Bill” Crouse (Jan. 19, 1928 – July 8, 2021)

In Memoriam: Helen Schafer Lichty (May 18, 1922 – June 8, 2021)

Helen M. Schafer Lichty, 99, was born to Harmon and Mary Schafer in Upland, Nebraska. She was the only daughter and youngest of four children. The family moved from Nebraska to Oregon when Helen was 12-years-old. She was raised in Wheatland, Oregon and later moved to Central Howell area near Silverton, Oregon where she met and married Grover Lichty. They were members of Emmanuel Mennonite Bible Church in Pratum, Oregon. Helen was a dedicated Christian woman devoted to her husband and family.

Helen was very involved in church and always had a love for children. She taught Sunday School and Bible School for over 25 years.  Read more... (215 words, 1 image, estimated 52 secs reading time)

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

Jerome Francis Donahe (Jerry or J.F.), of Silverton, passed in the early morning hours of April 17 in Salem, Oregon, of non-COVID related causes. He was born Aug. 14, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois to Bernard Anthony and Thelma Sophia (Follesvold) Donahe. 

At the age of 11, Jerry moved with his family to Sweet Home, Oregon, where he graduated from high school. After attending Pacific Lutheran University, he worked for a short time at Boeing (living near Seattle) and then enjoyed a very prosperous career in financial services.   Read more... (281 words, 1 image, estimated 1:07 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Maureen Schmidt (Oct. 8, 1942 – July 26, 2021)

Maureen Schmidt, 78, passed away July 26, 2021 surrounded by her family in Silverton, Oregon. She was born in Hartington, Nebraska in 1942.

Maureen met and fell in love with Bob Schmidt at the young age of 16 in Mount Angel, Oregon. They married on June 1, 1963. The couple raised their two children, Jeff Schmidt and Rachel Schmidt Long, in Silverton, and they continued to live in the same home, surrounded by their beautiful flower gardens for the last 46 years.  Read more... (246 words, 1 image, estimated 59 secs reading time)

Letters to the Editor: It’s going to take more than words

A response to Silverton Mayor Kyle Palmer’s column in the city newsletter distributed with the July 15 edition of  Our Town.

I congratulate you on your article concerning a very significant issue facing this country and more pointedly seems to be surfacing in Silverton. …  You’re challenging us all to be an ally of those individuals being oppressed is spot on. 

How did you find out about the incidents? 

Was an attempt made to find out who the youngsters were who were acting in a racist manner? 

Were they from Silverton?

Is there any form of security at the reservoir?   Read more... (355 words, estimated 1:25 mins reading time)

Letters to the Editor: The ‘heart’ of JFK wrestling

I would like to take a moment and point out a person who went above and beyond in developing a positive program in the Mount Angel high school. This person has steadfastly worked to bring a sport … that has been absent for many years. He has a dedication, not only to the sport of wrestling, but to the kids who show up to compete at it. Dewey Enos is someone the district should be proud of and acknowledge for exemplary conduct.  Read more... (343 words, estimated 1:22 mins reading time)

Get out the pads: Fall sports season set to get underway

Monday, Aug. 16. It gets real.

Conditioning week is over and high school sports teams begin practice for what they hope will be a normal school year.

The 2020-21 sports year turned into a compressed sprint of six-week seasons that started with February football practices and ended with a state wrestling tournament that occurred more than two weeks after graduation. Weird year.

So, the folks at Silverton and Kennedy are hoping for a heap of normal and no interruptions from the COVID-19 Delta variant this fall… and beyond.   Read more... (490 words, 1 image, estimated 1:58 mins reading time)

People Out Loud: ‘Promises to Be Good… In Writing.’

This was an ad for Heidelberg Beer back in 1969-1970.  I recall the big billboard was on North Water, right around where Photo Express sits today, and across from the turkey plant. Yes, the turkey plant, where the gobblers hung on hooks on a conveyor built and grossed us out as we walked toward school. The sign simply said, “Heidelberg Beer. Promises to Be Good. In Writing.”

Legend has it that three of our industrious classmates climbed the very high billboard and spray painted the words, “Class of ‘70” in the middle of the sign, in between “Promises to Be Good” and “In Writing”.  It was, simply put, genius. Guys, I know what you did that summer!  Read more... (664 words, 1 image, estimated 2:39 mins reading time)

A unique tune: Glen Damewood honored with First Citizen Award

By Melissa Wagoner

First Citizen Glen Damewood performing with Syco Billy’s String Band.

Glen Damewood is a well-known, long-time restaurateur. The owner of Mac’s Place, which he opened with a partner in 1980, as well as two Wooden Nickel restaurants – one in Silverton and one in Sublimity – Damewood’s is a familiar face to many. 

On top of that, there’s his band, the Syco Billy’s String Band. Damewood initially created it as a way to bring music to his son, Brian, and his grandsons, Branden and Brad, after Brian was diagnosed with ALS. The band has played throughout Silverton since its creation in 2015.   Read more... (747 words, 1 image, estimated 2:59 mins reading time)

Peace Dove aims to fly again – but needs help

Neither the pandemic, the aftermath of cataclysmic wildfires and a devastating ice storm, or the hottest day in Silverton history have stopped monthly peace vigils by Silverton People For Peace (SPFP). And after last summer’s cancellation of the Homer Davenport Community Festival parade, SPFP is now eager to resume flying its giant “Peace Dove”  in this year’s parade. 

But the dove needs a flight crew.

After the prolonged isolation and social distancing of the pandemic, entry organizers hope enough people are comfortable returning
to something as visible as being in a parade.  Read more... (276 words, estimated 1:06 mins reading time)

Lifetime Achievement: Community awards honor Chuck White

By Brenna Wiegand

Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Chuck White.

Chuck White received the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award at Silverton’s 50th annual First Citizens Banquet July 31.

Born and raised in northern California, White came to Silverton shortly after his 1972 graduation from Willamette University in Salem.

Looking back, Chuck has always been active in the community both as an educator and as a community volunteer. He has served on the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for many years where he is a past president.  Read more... (1186 words, 1 image, estimated 4:45 mins reading time)

Not just eating – it’s dining

By Melissa Wagoner

Co-founder Joel Autry

Co-founder Cherry Arbuckle Hoffman

Joel Autry can’t stand to see good food go to waste. And so, when his restaurant, the Silverton Wine Bar, began generating what could have been a heap of wasted food due to the operating restrictions handed down in the winter months of 2020 – he knew he had to come up with a plan. 

“When I was still operating the Wine Bar and they let us open for takeout there was always leftover food because I had to be prepared,” Autry said.   Read more... (954 words, 2 images, estimated 3:49 mins reading time)

Believing in the mission: DeSantis’ Distinguished Service award

By Melissa Wagoner

Sarah DeSantis

It’s not every day that the employees of an organization recognize their boss for her distinguished service. But as the Silverton Chamber of Commerce began accepting nominations for the Community Awards for 2020, the staff at Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA) did precisely that, nominating their director, Sarah DeSantis, for the Distinguished Service Award.

“We know when COVID-19 hit many people in this town stepped up to keep things moving, we believe Sarah was one of these people,” SACA’s four-person administrative team wrote in their collective nomination letter.   Read more... (814 words, 1 image, estimated 3:15 mins reading time)

Business of the Year: The Satern Agency – Country Financial

By Brenna Wiegand

Employees of The Satern Agency – Country Financial include, from left, Nikka Martushev, Ale Pena, Debbie Satern and Brent Satern. The insurance and financial planning business was recently named Silverton Business of the Year for 2020 by the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce. BRENNA WIEGAND.

The Satern Agency – Country Financial was recently named Business of the Year by the Silverton Area Chamber of Commerce.

Owner Brent Satern grew up with a love and respect for Silverton. As he got older, he wanted to find a career in Silverton in which he could serve people and be his own boss with the freedom to always put his family first.  Read more... (745 words, 1 image, estimated 2:59 mins reading time)

Datebook: August 2021

Datebook Submission Information

Get your events and fundraisers published in Our Town. Send your releases to datebook@mtangelpub.com. Or drop them off at 401 Oak St., Silverton.

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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. Monday – Saturday. 503-845-6998

Mt. Angel Food Pantry, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 Charles St. Repeats Wednesday. 503-845-6998  Read more... (1816 words, estimated 7:16 mins reading time)

Volunteers needed

The Mt. Angel Community Senior Center is looking for volunteers. You pick the times and days that you are available.  Stop by and meet the team, 195 E. Charles St. Hours are 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday – Saturday.  The center plans to be open for Oktoberfest too. Information: 503-845-6998. 

Fr. Bernard Youth Center welcomes supporters back

In celebration of the re-opening of its doors to guests and retreatants, the Fr. Bernard Youth Center is hosting a BBQ on Friday, Aug. 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. All are invited.  Gary and Mary BBQ will provide the catering.  Guests have an option to take their meal home or eat it on the FBYC campus. 

The dinner will also provide an opportunity for guests to win one of several gift baskets.  More details are available at www.fbyc.

ASAP benefit auction features chef, coast, car

This past year brought changes to ASAP, the After-School Activities Program.   Throughout 2020 and 2021, staff have stayed connected with students by offering online academic mentoring, providing needed meals and activities delivered safely to their homes, and most recently, arranging small social gatherings. 

As a benefit for ASAP, Roth’s Fresh Market presents “A Time to Shine,” on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at Gallon House Farms, 7263 Gallon House Road, Silverton from 6:30 to 9 p.m.  Read more... (146 words, estimated 35 secs reading time)

Washerwoman – New business revives vintage service

By Melissa Wagoner

Ava and Kate Bush

When Kate Bush told her daughter, Ava, that she wanted to start a new business – a laundry service that would provide clean clothes, folded and ironed and delivered to her customers’ door – Ava was unimpressed. 

“At first, I was like, really? You want a business where you just do laundry?” 17-year-old Ava recalled. 

But Kate just couldn’t let the idea go. And eventually, even Ava got onboard, supporting her mom as only a tech-savvy teenager can – by designing a logo, building a website and creating a Facebook page for her mom’s new venture.  Read more... (416 words, 1 image, estimated 1:40 mins reading time)

Ruefs celebrate 65 years of marriage

Max and Marlene (Kahut) Ruef recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with family. They were married July 14, 1956 at St. Luke Catholic Church In Woodburn, Oregon.  The two first crossed paths at the corner near the drug store in Mount Angel while walking to their high schools. He was 17, she was 15.  They have lived in the Mount Angel area all 65 years of their marriage, happily working on the family farm. 

Their children include Pam (Larry) Groomes, Patty (Stu) Smith, Julie (Rigo) Parra, Joe (Darcy) Ruef, Susan (Mike) Charpilloz, Cheríe (Steve) Bielenberg, and Jeff (Toni) Ruef. They have 19 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

In Memoriam: Benjamin Greiner (Jan. 28, 1954 – June 29, 2021)

In Memoriam: Kimball Porter Vickery (Dec. 22, 1942 – June 21, 2021)

Kimball Porter Vickery passed away on June 21 at his home in Mount Angel, Oregon. He was born on Dec. 22, 1942, in San Francisco, California, to Eleanor and Theodore Vickery.

He majored in Accounting in college, but upon moving to Yuma, Arizona, joined the Highway Patrol. On June 7, 1970, he married Victoria Hanner in Arcadia, California.  Read more... (261 words, 1 image, estimated 1:03 mins reading time)

In Memoriam: Linda Darlene (Huddleston) Stokem (April 19, 1941 – July 15, 2021)

Born on April 19, 1941, to Edgar and Nellie Huddleston in Silverton, Linda Darlene Stokem died at Salem Hospital on July 15, 2021. 

A graduate of Silverton High School, her first marriage was to Telvin (Bart) Hanson. They had two children: Susan Simmons (Jeff) and Alan (Lisa), and four granddaughters: Madison, Abigail, Ellie and Katie. 

Linda is also survived by her brother, David (Terisa), and sister Debra Huddleston. Her brother, Larry, pre-deceased her. Linda lived in Salem with her current husband, Ron Stokem.   Read more... (176 words, 1 image, estimated 42 secs reading time)

Homer Days returns: Silverton festival charges ahead – like a couch

By Melissa Wagoner

Affectionately known as “Homer Days,” the Homer Davenport Community Festival – held the first Friday through Sunday in August (the sixth through eighth this year) – is absolutely unique.

An offshoot of the Silverton Arts Association’s, Family Festival of the Arts, held for the first timåe in 1980, the Homer Days festival is the only celebration in Oregon dedicated to a political cartoonist and journalist – Homer Davenport.  Read more... (370 words, estimated 1:29 mins reading time)

Silverton Flywheels: Auto club fundraises for scholarship

By Melissa Wagoner

Silverton Flywheels 2018

Silverton Flywheels 1962

From the outside the Silverton Flywheels might appear to be just your average car club, with muscle cars and hot rods shined up and displayed in all their glory at every show. But the club – which is one of the oldest in Silverton, having been established way back in 1961– has always been about much more than cars. 

“The club’s purpose was to promote safety,” members wrote in a historical account, which lists the promotion of highway courtesy, aiding citizens in distress, contributing to overall community wellbeing and respecting traffic laws as primary member duties.  Read more... (616 words, 2 images, estimated 2:28 mins reading time)

Track standout: Emma Bayer leads Kennedy at state meet

Emma Beyer of Kennedy put on a terrific show May 22 at the Class 2A state track and field championships at Union High School. Beyer, a senior, won the triple jump with a personal best 33-3, took third in the 100 (13.26), fourth in the 200 (28.01) and ran the anchor leg on the Trojans’ 4×100 relay squad which took fifth in 54.33. Assisting on the short relay were Alyse Williams, Haley Kline and Kylee Rodriguez.

Williams, Cassie Traeger, Kline and Rodriquez, meanwhile, took second in the 4×400 relay in 4:31.58 to help Kennedy score 33 points, good for sixth overall.  Read more... (600 words, 1 image, estimated 2:24 mins reading time)

A Grin at the End: What you leave out … but don’t take out the soul

The key to good writing is what you leave out.

Too often, writing makes its way into the public circus without the benefit of editing, and it’s painful. The basic points may be there but they are crowded by half-baked thoughts and fictionalized versions of reality. Add a dash of ignorance about history – or science or math or politics – and the writer is often his, or her, own worst enemy.

That’s when a writer loses the battle for the heart and mind of the reader.  Read more... (600 words, 1 image, estimated 2:24 mins reading time)

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.

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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