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About The nugget. (Sisters, Or.) 1994-current | View Entire Issue (Aug. 26, 2015)
Wednesday, August 26, 2015 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon 5 Remove Sisters families enjoy Creation Vacation Camp weeds to reduce fire danger By sue stafford Correspondent Due to the extreme fire danger in Sisters Country, the City of Sisters is remind- ing property owners to be diligent in keeping inva- sive and noxious weeds and grasses cut down and/or removed. As they dry out, the veg- etation supplies fuel for quick-moving fires like the one currently burning on the Warm Springs Reservation. Weeds are also unsightly and some of them are considered noxious invasive species that compete with native plants. According to City code, it is the responsibility of property owners to remove possible fire hazards from their property. Some of the usual culprits need- ing to be removed include spotted knapweed, cheat- grass, and any dry fuels that pose a threat to fire safety. Community Development Director Patrick Davenport wants the citizens to be aware that his staff is out canvass- ing the City for offenders. Any who are identified will receive a warning letter from the city instructing them to remove the weeds and grasses. They will be given ample time to get the job done. If there isn’t compliance, a second letter will go out, fol- lowed by a third if needed. There is a fine of $50 per day of noncompliance after receipt of the third letter. Seven Sisters Habitat for Humanity and Family Access Network families recently participated in the fifth annual Creation Vacation Camp at Suttle Lake United Methodist Camp. Campers enjoyed deli- cious and nutritious food and an individual family cabin on the beautiful grounds of the camp. Special activities were planned for all age levels. The children’s ages ranged from eight months to 17 years. The Creation Vacation Camp ministry was initi- ated by the United Methodist Church Camp and Retreat Ministries in 1997. Families from Idaho and Oregon have participated during those nine years, and for the last five summers, the program has extended to families from Sisters Habitat for Humanity and FAN. Creation Vacation offers low-income families the opportunity to experience a few days of family vaca- tion, enjoying a supportive community and the wonder of creation that we know as camp. For many, it is a respite from the struggles of daily life. Adult topics and experi- ences included parenting dis- cussions, yoga, home main- tenance, spiritual centering, nutrition and yummy, healthy snacks, and chair massages. Family activities included a star party after an introduc- tion through “Tour Through The Cosmos.” A session on stream ecology opened everyone’s eyes to the amaz- ing things in the local envi- ronment in Lake Creek as it exits Suttle Lake. Campers participated in many games; archery; face painting; origami; mak- ing birdhouses; and nature Farewell to Buddie September 1999 9 5 to August 2015 We’ll Miss You! u! photo pRovided Campers at suttle Lake enjoyed a wide range of special activities. hikes. Boating, swimming, tie-dying of T-shirts and — due to extremely dry condi- tions — faux campfires, were enjoyed by all ages. A “vari- ety show” between dinner and the campfire on the last night of camp had everyone in stitches as campers and staff shared presentations. Participants were dressed in colorful, fanciful costumes as they sang, danced, competed and shared in the fun. A serious reading reminded everyone how important Creation Vacation Camp is to families. Comments made by fami- lies have included, “It’s the best family time of the year! It is awesome fun! We love everything about this camp!!! It is a fantastic opportunity for our family to create trea- sured memories.” Efforts will continue to secure stable funding and inclusion of more families in 2016 so that they will be able to participate in this poten- tially life-changing experi- ence. Research has shown that improved family bonds and relationships are asso- ciated with family camp. It has also shown that outdoor programs appear to produce positive outcomes that con- tinue after the experience. Room For Your RV & Toys! Doug Roberts Principal Broker, GRI, CRB 541-280-6199 66918 Sagebrush Lane, Bend dougrobertsMPS@gmail.com Stunning Cascade mountain views from this 3+ bedroom, .-bath home located between Sisters and Bend. Large decks, open fl oor plan, charming rustic built-in shelving and entertain- ment unit in living room. Fenced with land- scaping, detached garage. Offi ce could be 4th bedroom. New roof in Nov. .013. $249,995 290 E. Cascade Ave., Sisters 541-588-6614 metoliuspropertysales.com
