PIO1211

Local officials weigh in on their election victories

By DAVID HAYES Editor

Polk County completed its final vote tally Nov. 27, and the Secretary of State’s office certified the election Nov. 5 with results certified one month later on Dec. 5 Locally, leadership around the House Districts and many City Council positions saw a return of many incumbents as well as the selection of some new faces to help steer the future of the municipalities within the county.

DHS band program expands access with generous donation

The band program at Dallas High School and LaCreole Middle School, under the direction of Stephen Burroughs, has struck a new chord thanks to the generosity of Band4All, a nonprofit organization founded by Shannon Jorgenson. A recent donation of 14 professional refurbished instruments expands the district’s efforts to provide music education access for all students.

Jorgenson, a lifelong musician who began playing flute in the fifth grade, understands firsthand the transformative power of music. After years of witnessing financial barriers limit students’ opportunities to participate in band programs, she launched Band4All to provide quality instruments to schools with limited resources.

“I want every child who wants to play to have an instrument,” Jorgenson said.

Her work is driven by a lifelong commitment to music and community service, including her role as a member of the Salem Symphonic Winds and her dedication to volunteering at a shelter for homeless individuals.

The donated instruments – four flutes, three clarinets, two trombones, and five trumpets – have been professionally repaired by Willamette Music Company, with costs fully covered by Band4All. These efforts ensure that each instrument is performance-ready and can support students who might not otherwise afford instrument rentals. The donation will primarily benefit 6th through 12th-grade students, breaking down barriers for beginners entering the band program and allowing them to select their firstchoice instruments.

Stephen Burroughs, whose leadership has energized the district’s band program, emphasized the significance of this gift.

“This donation ensures that more students can experience the joy and discipline of music,” Burroughs

According to the Polk County Elections Office, of the 64 246 registered voters, there were 48,167 ballots cast, a 74 7 percent turnout rate.

Starting with state elections, in Oregon House District 20, which includes the communities of Independence, and Monmouth, and portions of South and West Salem, Rep. Paul Evans will return for his sixth term. He garnered 20 271 votes to challenger Kevin Chambers’ 14,938

Evans said he was truly surprised this challenging election ended in such a wide margin in his favor.

“Accordingly, I accept this victory with revitalized energy, a greater understanding of what working families need, and a personal commitment to serve as a worthy steward of the public’s trust,” Evans told the Itemizer-Observer

Evans said he hopes to work with his colleagues in 2025 and build upon the progress made in better preparing Oregon for emergencies, pushing for a more rational approach

to post-secondary education and workforce training, and improving the lives of veterans and military families throughout the State of Oregon.

“Although I intend on introducing a larger number of legislative proposals to the House for consideration than in past years, my priorities remain affixed on public safety, education, and veterans issues,” Evans added. “Some of the bills will be to set the table for future action, but a few will hopefully become law in 2025.”

Christmas Town

Warming centers offer more than shelter on a cold night

By DAVID HAYES Editor

Anna Channel never forgets the days she was homeless, living out of the back of a Datsun pickup truck with her two young boys.

Now, years later, she and her boys are giving back for the generosity given them to get through the hard times. Her oldest son helps with the homeless in South Dakota. Her youngest at a ministry in Minnesota building houses and remodels. And Channel herself is the volunteer coordinator for Polk County’s warming center program.

“My parents once told us, ‘Help those less fortunate than thou.‘

That’s my job,” Channel said. She has been in charge of the volunteers manning the warming centers throughout the program’s seven-year run, 10 at the rotating sites between Dallas, Monmouth and Independence and another six at the newest permanent site in Falls City.

In House District 23, Anna Scharff also returns to her seat by a wide margin of victory over challenger Kriss Wright, 24 492 to 14 929 While grateful to the voters, Scharff acknowledged the challenge ahead.

“The 2025 Legislative Session will represent the first time since 2009 that both the House and the Senate have super-majority party control, and with it the ability to pass legislation and new taxes

Friends

By DAVID HAYES Editor

After 24 years and more than 60 000 miles, the Monmouth Senior Community Center was in need of new transportation to their many events.

In her report to the Monmouth City Council, Barbara Cronin, Senior Community Center Director, detailed that many of their older riders have a hard time getting in and out of the current vehicle, and it has been a physical hazard for some. In addition, the current van is not wheelchair accessible.

“We’ve had a rough idea of the type of vehicle we want to purchase – something larger, more accessible and lower entry point, and in keeping with accessibility goals of council, something wheelchair accessible so people with mobility devices can utilize our travel program,” Cronin told the council at their Dec. 3 meeting.

Cronin detailed how the Friends of the Monmouth Senior Center, who purchased the original vehicle, have stepped forward again with an $80 000 donation to purchase a new replacement.

However, the arrangement will involve the city’s administration taking out a loan to cover the payment coming into the city in two installments.

Cronin said a company the senior center has gotten quotes from in the past emailed in mid-October with a notice of a drastic price reduction in several vehicles including the exact one they were looking at.

“We’re looking at acquiring it at $50 000 less than other companies and they have even thrown on a $10 000 senior discount, which is really amazing,” Cronin said.

The Senior Center had about $22,000 set aside from fundraising by the Friends of the Senior Center specifically for a vehicle purchase.

“And I train every one of them,”

PHOTO BY DAVID HAYES

The official Dallas Christmas Tree was lit Saturday night officially kicking off the Christmas season in Polk County. See more Christmas Town event photos on page A8

PHOTO BY DAVID HAYES

Warming Center volunteer coordinator Anna Channel (center) and volunteer Alissa Sickles (left) wait with Jazzy to serve anyone in need of shelter on a cold night last week.

NEWS BRIEFS THE

Dallas plans leaf

collection Dec. 14-15

City of Dallas next leaf collection dates are Dec. 14-15. Republic Services is continuing to provide this service to citizens of Dallas. Wait to rake leaves into city streets until just before the collection events. Leaves raked into the street can cause drainage and flooding problems by clogging gutters and storm sewers, and can blow onto neighboring properties.

Residents will be asked to remove leaves if they are raked into the street outside of scheduled pick-up times.

Dallas officials recommend that residents dispose of leaves in the following ways:

• Use them as mulch in your landscaping

• Place them in your yard debris bin

• Use any of the leaf only drop-off locations through Dec. 31 (no other yard debris).

• Place leaves in the streets just before collection dates

The locations are as follows:

1) Park Street parking lot west end of the walking bridge

2) Southwest Allgood near the gate to the Parks Office

3) The east end of Hankel Street Leaves should be raked into the street in long rows, parallel to the curb, and at least 18 inches away from the curb. Avoid blocking the roadway, driveways, and bike lanes. Keep piles away from and clear any blocked storm drains. Place only leaves and no other trimmings, brush, grass, or other debris in the street.

For more information, call Republic Services at (541) 754-0444

Dallas hosts police station design open house

The city of Dallas is hosting an open house Dec. 17 from 6-7 p.m. at City Hall, 187 Court St., to share new information about a proposed new Police Station, including a cost estimate and an updated design. Tours of the existing facilities will be from 5:30-6 p.m. and 7-7:30 p.m. You can participate in the open house online at https://form.

Take steps to reduce holiday deer entanglements

Deck the halls this holiday season, not the deer.

Deer entanglement is a growing concern in Oregon and local ODFW offices are urging residents to take action by cleaning up their yards. Put away any unused items, especially during the late fall and winter months when buck antlers are largest. Keep holiday decorations at least 8-feet high to reduce the risk of entanglement.

One of the main causes of deer entanglement is the presence of items in yards that can ensnare wildlife. Holiday lights are particularly problematic along with hammocks, dog lines, tomato cages, and volleyball or soccer nets. Decorations hung from trees or decks can also pose a threat if they are within reach of bucks.

As bucks shed the velvet from their antlers, they often become itchy and rub their antlers on various objects increasing the risk of entanglement. They also rub to mark their territory during

the rut from October into mid-December.

“While it can be amusing to see a deer running around with lights in its antlers, entanglements can have serious consequences for deer,” said Mikayla Bivona, ODFW Assistant Wildlife Biologist in Prineville. “Entanglements can obstruct their vision, hinder their ability to eat and drink, and even restrict their breathing.”

“By keeping your yard deer-friendly, you can reduce the number of entanglements as well as the number of calls to our offices to untangle deer. It’s not always possible to capture these deer, so prevention is key,” Bivona continued.

Wildlife entanglement is a preventable problem. Taking simple steps to clean your yard will not only reduce stress on wildlife but will allow biologists to focus on other responsibilities such as habitat enhancement and development of new projects to benefit wildlife.

A mule deer buck entangled in wire was darted, cleaned up and released.

ODFW’s Central Oregon staff, for example, have responded to 113 calls regarding distressed wildlife this year, 90 of which were deer. The leading causes for these calls are entanglement, vehicle collisions, and fence injuries. People should not attempt to free entangled wildlife, as

this can cause unnecessary stress and potentially kill the animal. Instead, residents are advised to contact their local ODFW office for assistance. Fencing is another significant factor contributing to deer and elk entanglement in residential areas. Certain types of fencing can increase the likelihood of wildlife getting trapped. For more information about wildlife-friendly fencing, refer to the Guidebook for Wildlife Friendly Fencing online at https://dfw.state.or.us/news/ docs/2024/fencing-manual-no-marks.pdf.

SNAP recipients can replace storm damaged food

Polk County residents who lost food purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the Nov. 19-20 severe weather event have 30 days to request replacement benefits from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). The deadline to request replacement food benefits is Dec. 18. ODHS received federal approval to waive the usual 10-day

replacement benefit request deadline to help support people impacted by the strong winds and heavy rainfall that caused power outages for more than 25 000 households.

Anyone who disposed of food bought with SNAP that was destroyed due to a disaster can request replacement benefits for the cost of the lost food. Requestors should be prepared to provide the

total cost of the food lost and may have to provide proof of the event that destroyed the food if they don’t reside in one of the approved counties.

Replacement SNAP benefits may be requested by: Calling (800) 699-9075

Filling out a request form and emailing it to oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov

Visiting a local ODHS office

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household’s normal monthly SNAP benefit.

Spirit Mountain Community Fund celebrates $100 million in giving

This December, the Spirit Mountain Community Fund (SMCF) will surpass $100 million in giving to Oregon nonprofit organizations and Tribes, a significant milestone in the Community Fund’s 27 years of existence. To commemorate this historic time, SMCF hosted a special luncheon and check presentation to celebrate the work of their nonprofit partners at Spirit Mountain Casino on Dec. 6

During the check presentation, the Community Fund provided funding for

said. “We’re not just creating musicians; we’re building confidence, collaboration, and lifelong skills.”

10 small grant recipients, 13 large grant recipients and eight tribal grant recipients, totaling $1 417 805 Additionally, the SMCF Board of Trustees recognized six nonprofit organizations that they believe are doing extraordinary work within their communities. Each of those organizations received a special gift of $5,000 for their dedication to making a better life for all people living in northwest Oregon.

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is

The instruments arrive at a pivotal moment as the Dallas School District prepares for anticipated growth in band participation. This donation complements ongoing efforts, including an instrument drive initiated by board member

Channel said.

The warming centers program kicked off in 2018 with a grant from the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.

The warming center season runs from Nov. 1 through March 31, and we are activated on nights when the temperature is forecast to drop to freezing (32F) or below. Intake is from 7-9 p.m. Guests are invited to stay until 7 a.m., with Channel’s volunteers cooking up a hot dinner and a warm breakfast to take out the door in the morning.

Matt Smucker, Chaplain for Church in the Park that partners with Polk County to run the sites, said for the most part, the warming centers are for those who are unhoused.

“We’ve had those in an RV situation and they’ve run out of propane. Or their power gets shut off,” Smucker explained. “Anyone is welcome to come in if they need a warm, safe place to be.”

committed to honoring the native tradition of Potlatch (the sharing of good fortune) and giving back to the community. As an effort to uphold these traditions, the tribe formed the Spirit Mountain Community Fund, dedicating 6% of revenue from Spirit Mountain Casino to nonprofit organizations in an 11-county service area of northwest Oregon. SMCF awarded its first grants in 1997 to Life Flight Network and the Portland Art Museum. During their first year, they awarded 17

Lu Ann Meyer. Together, these initiatives reflect a district-wide commitment to ensuring that music education remains accessible, equitable and impactful.

For Burroughs and the district’s students, this is more

spread the load and burden throughout the community on a two-week rotation basis.

Smucker said most of host sites run out of fairly small churches. As such, Polk County decided to

“We try to set it up for each congregation to participate as much or little as they are able,” Smucker said.

He added the county partnered with Cherriots bus system to provide free rides to and from the warming centers when they are operating, Mondays through Saturdays. In addition, the county has its own van to pick people up on Sundays.

“We want you to be able to get to the warming center and back to your community the next morning where their resources are during the day, support structure and important services they can get back to during the day,” Smucker said.

He said a couple years ago was the busiest year ever for the program, with about 360 people utilizing the warming centers, three nights a week, for a total of 106 nights.

Last winter, however, the centers were only open 27 nights, five of those during the big ice storm that shut

grants totaling $1 6 million.

With the Dec. 6 check presentation, the Community Fund has funded 3 394 grants supporting projects in arts and culture, education, environmental preservation, health, historic preservation and public safety, totaling $100,177,653 “As a once terminated Tribe, I never imagined we would rebuild such a strong Tribal community and be in a position to invest in and give back to our surrounding communities in such a substantial way,” said Executive

than just an opportunity to play music – it’s a chance to grow, connect, and excel. As the sounds of flutes, clarinets, trombones, and trumpets fill the air, Dallas High School celebrates a partnership that embodies its mission to help

down transportation options to and from the centers.

“So, we stayed open 24 hours in Monmouth at the time. The hosts were gracious. ‘We’ll just keep it open.’ They kept the showers running and the hot food serving,” he said.

Smucker added the ideal trifecta of services they hope to offer, depending on the participating church are a place to sleep, laundry services and access to showers. Most locations are able to house between 7-25 per night.

Channel has organized in just about every aspect of the county’s homeless programs, including safe showers, cooling center and organizing shopping and donations.

“My life sort of revolves around these guys. Spring, summer, fall and winter. It doesn’t matter,” Channel said.

She added if the homeless are inside, taking advantage of the county programs, then they’re not outside causing problems.

“They’re inside, safe, warm, fed and sleeping. We’re all humans.

Director Angie Sears. “There was a time when our tribe didn’t have anything to give and our surrounding communities provided support for us. And now we’re able to give back to them and work together to build stronger communities for everyone.

“For the past 20 years, I have watched Spirit Mountain Community Fund reach communities and change lives,” added Chris Mercier, Tribal Council Vice Chair. “My hope is that we can continue this work well into the future.”

students grow in capacity and confidence.

If you are interested in making a donation to the Dallas School District music program, contact Stephen Burroughs at Stephen. Burroughs@dsd2.org.

Everybody has a right to have a roof over their head. Everybody’s circumstances are different. And, this is no judgement. We even take those with animals, dogs, cats and snakes,” she said, shivering.

And while the homeless are taking advantage of the warming programs, Channel said the county connects them to other programs to get them inside permanently.

“We try to get them permanent things, get set up with Social Security, veterans’ benefits, get temporary traditional housing, drivers’ license, birth certificates. We do what is necessary to get them back on their feet,” Channel said.

Smucker added the warming centers would always appreciate additional volunteers and donations, from hygiene items and hand warmers to food items like granola bars, meat sticks and oatmeal. To sign up or find out more about making a donation, go to www. polkwarming.org and click on the “Get Involved” pull down tab.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY ODFW

City Finance Director

Marston explained the city would go out to acquire loan for the total purchase price of the van at s $124 964 which is a savings of about $50,000 from previous quotes. With the $30,000 initial payment from Friends of Senior Center, the city would make monthly installments.

“We are set up in our budget to accept this donation and use the appropriation for installment payments,”

Marston said. “In August of 2025, we pay of the balance with the remaining $80,000 donation.”

From Page A1

without bipartisan support,” Scharff said while vacationing in Hawaii.

“My priority this session will be to advocate for legislation that promotes bipartisan solutions, not supermajority mandates, and to work with my colleagues to find solutions that make the lives of Oregonians better without taking away more of their hard-earned paychecks,” Scharff added.

Polk County’s races also held little challenge for incumbents. Sheriff Mark Garton was re-elected over Steve Warden, the emergency services chief for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, netting 27,126 votes to 12,935 Likewise, incumbent County Treasurer Steve Milligan also easily won re-election over Chris Patoine, 21 278 to 13 936

In a mayoral race that wasn’t certain until the end, former City Councilor Rich

She said it would end up costing the city just under $50 000. She pointed out Monmouth had $50,000 projected for a kitchen remodel at the senior center.

“So basically, we’re trading a kitchen for a bus,” Marston said.

The term of the bank loan would be 60 months with a 7 5% interest rate, resulting in approximately $6 000 in interest costs. This is according to a plan of paying off the loan in August of 2025, with monthly payments of $2 915

“Many of the bids we got for vehicles also included the need to be built,” Cronin explained. “This one was already built and in stock. So, it won’t be 16- to

Slack narrowly defeated current City Councilor Nancy Adams 4,222 to 3,880

“I want to thank everyone for their support during this election season,” Slack told the I-O. “I think we have a great group of people who are passionate about Dallas being a successful and welcoming community.”

Rounding out the top five vote getters to the Dallas City Council were:

• Carlos Barientos – 5,257

• Anthony Blosser – 5 039

• Kimberly Fitzgerald – 4,936

• Debbie Verdin – 4 874

• Troy Hazelton – 4,530

Incumbent Barientos said he was humbled to be re-elected by voters in Dallas. “I don’t take this obligation lightly and plan on keeping you informed. There is no doubt that we may go through some good times and some difficult terrain,” Barientos said. “But it will all be worth it in the end as we work together to maintain a safe and value-driven small town.”

18-months out, like some of the bids we got.”

City Manager Rochelle Roaden said staff plans to make a direct congressional spending ask in February 2025 to complete the kitchen project, which will include a commercial kitchen upgrade and expansion.

McKiel asked if staff had considered making an interfund loan saving the city $6,000 in interest in the arrangement.

Marston said they had not, but could look into going that route.

Roaden explained the city would have to take out a bigger loan to cover it at this point to achieve the same setup involving the FOSC loan.

Hazelton said he is excited to be a new face on the Dallas City Council.

“I’m very excited to get the opportunity to serve the amazing people of Dallas, Oregon, and I hope to help combat housing and budget issues we’ve been having in Dallas,” Hazelton said. “I hope to be transparent with the people and available to all citizens of Dallas so everyone can feel like they have a voice.”

Voters in Monmouth also selected their top three selections for their City Council. They were:

• John Oberst – 2,274

• Carol McKiel – 2 249

• Jason Ridgeway – 1,961

McKiel was happy to return to the council to be a part of the important tasks they face developing Monmouth’s economic development plan and working with the budget. She also looks forward to expanding heritage month and cultural celebrations

“Each year these heritage events get larger and more fun for everyone. Last year our Pride Celebration had

President of FOSC Steve Milligan, confirmed they had more than $100 000 in their account, more than enough to cover this transaction.

Councilor Jon Carey wondered about insurance costs associated with a new van. He was told it would be covered within the insurance costs for all the city’s fleet of vehicles. Cronin added it makes sense to make this purchase before the calendar year is over because the two major van dealerships they deal with have told them their costs will be going up by a minimum of $5 000 to $10,000 next year, which would be passed along to the consumer in their purchase price.

over 300 participants and about 40 vendors and is now on the statewide list of Pride celebrations in Oregon,” McKiel wrote to the I-O.

“I hope to see a similar growth with the celebrations for Asian American Pacific Islander and Black History Month. I also want to add a Hispanic Heritage month celebration to Monmouth’s festivities. These events are important ways to acknowledge and honor the diversity of our Monmouth residents.”

Ridgeway was very excited for an opportunity to be involved with the City Council.

“The city has long needed a new voice with a different perspective to represent the values of all of Monmouth’s citizens,” Ridgeway said.

“We have a long and rich history in our town that attracted so many of us to live here, so my priority is to be a conservationist rather than bring big changes. We can work together to keep Monmouth, Monmouth.”

In Independence, voters were tasked with selecting candidates to decide

The Monmouth Senior Community Center’s van is 24 years old and in need of replacement after 60,000 miles.

After it was approved unanimously, Mayor Cecelia Koontz said “this is absolutely amazing.”

“We’ve been working on this a long time. One other thing I think I remember it was always a little hard to find a driver,” Koontz said.

three different City Council positions.

In Position 3, incumbent Dawn Hedrick-Roden retained the seat, winning 1 817 to Evan Sorce’s 1 741

Hedrick-Roden said her goals for the new year remain unchanged and knows this upcoming term will be more challenging than the last.

“A financial crisis looms ahead. During our last budget cycle, I was one of the minority voices urging cuts to spending and seeking resources to help mitigate the financial impact on the library, museum, and our general fund,” Hedrick-Roden said. “We had the opportunity to change our spending approach and make navigating these financial challenges more manageable. However, the budget was ultimately pushed through, placing all our hopes on a ‘levy’ solution.”

She added that the community has spoken and is looking for the City Council to be more responsible with its tax revenue they already collect.

“The budget for the next few years is going to be

“So, anyone in the community who is interested in volunteering to drive this tricked out cool shuttle bus, because they do plan some amazing trips, we’d love to have somebody dedicated to doing that.”

complex, to say the least. Additionally, the city needs to start making principal payments, not just interest payments, on the civic center,” Hedrick-Roden said. In Position 5, Bill Boisvert edged out Mark Senyk 1,152 to 1 109 and incumbent Kathy Martin-Willis won comfortably over challenger Conor Gowen 1 886 to 1 485 In Falls City, voters selected to their City Council their top three choices Dennis Sickles – (280), Tia McConnell Scruton (253) and Amy Houghtaling (252). Three educational organizations were seeking voter approval, with only Falls City passing a levy to pay for after school programing, 460 to 225 The Chemeketa

Santa Dollars

For $2 plus the price of your preferred bill(s), you can purchase this fun stocking stuffer and help Oregon State Credit Union raise money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals®. Come into any branch before 1 p.m. December 24 to get yours and help make a di fference in children’s lives

Visit the nearest branch today

464 Pacific Ave S in Monmouth 210 Orchard Dr in Dallas 510 Wallace Rd in West Salem

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

If

How to keep students tuned in at school

By EMILY MCGINNIS

Across the country, teachers and administrators are working to address two major challenges: learning loss and student engagement.

A variety of factors make it difficult for students to attend class and stay engaged in their schoolwork -including pandemic-related learning gaps, mental health issues, family challenges, and a lack of social connections at school.

These challenges have led to an increase in absenteeism. In many schools, that’s creating a vicious cycle. When struggling students miss school, it’s much harder for them to get caught up after they return. That can be overwhelming, with many missing more classes as a result.

The numbers shed light on how widespread these issues are. During the 2022-23 school year, 26% of public-school students nationwide were chronically absent, missing 10% or more of the school year. It remains nearly double the pre-pandemic rate. 40% of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness in 2023

Although these challenges are significant, they’re not insurmountable. As a former teacher and principal, I understand that educators can’t address every contributing factor. However, we can foster better attendance and engagement by creating classrooms where students feel a sense of belonging and are motivated to interact with their peers.

Many schools have adopted project-based learning curricula -- where students work on experiential, self-directed projects over an extended time. Since these projects

CORRECTIONS

are personalized and often creative, students feel more invested in them.

When implementing project-based learning effectively, schools have seen reduced absenteeism, improved performance, and higher engagement compared to traditional, “onesize-fits-all” instruction. A recent study measured a project-based curriculum against a traditional one among 3,600 students. The students in project-based classes had a pass rate eight percentage points higher than their peers on exams.

Taking students’ ideas seriously can also increase engagement and attendance. For example, one high school responded to students’ requests for an e-sports club. Over time, this passion turned the club into a thriving competitive program with a dedicated coach. One school district in California found that students who participated in e-sports had nearly 20% lower absenteeism than non-participants.

Another overlooked factor is the physical learning environment. Thoughtful design can provide students with comfort and a sense of control over their environment. A well-designed classroom can boost student performance by up to 16%.

My company recently hosted our second annual competition where teachers submit designs for their dream classrooms, and the winners receive furniture to bring their visions to life. One winner, a sixthgrade teacher, designed a classroom with different zones that allowed her students to choose where to work based on their communication style or learning preference. We surveyed the students before and after the classroom makeover. Before, half said they found it fun to study in the classroom. After, the figure was 92% -- all thanks to a physical space that gave them different ways to learn.

Improving student mental health, closing learning gaps, and reducing absenteeism may seem like daunting challenges. While we can’t solve these problems on our own, relatively small changes to our classrooms and curricula can have a major impact.

Emily McGinnis is the K-12 education market manager at KI, a global furniture manufacturer in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She previously spent 21 years as a teacher and principal in Charlotte, N.C. This column originally appeared in the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

OPINION

LETTERS

County circumvents process for vacant positions

I have thought of writing a letter about the Polk County Commissioners for many years. First when Mike Ainsworth retired, and again when Jennifer Wheeler retired.

I believe the Commissioners (all of them) conspired to deprive the public the full duty of voting in a new commissioner. By retiring shortly before their term was to end, the board had to appoint a new person because the position was vacated. That new person then had name recognition and a greater chance to be reelected to a new term.

Danny Jaffer from Independence had run multiple times, and I believe he would have been a qualified candidate.

However, I believe the Commissioners deliberately chose an individual first from West Salem (which gave representation to an important part of Polk County), and next to Falls City. Then, to my way of thinking (in an underhanded way), they came up with a financial manager, and effectively eliminated the duties of the elected county treasurer. If they felt this made good business sense, they should have proposed a change to the rules of the county and presented it to the public for a vote. Instead, they moved the elected Treasurer to the basement (as if that isn’t a value statement) and removed his duties.

Then they complain because he didn’t make the monthly reports, as

required. I always wondered if he even had access to the information. They still want him in the basement, when I believe he should be in the finance department.

Barbara Chrisman Dallas

Who’s addressing lack of shopping in Dallas?

I am so frustrated with the lack of shopping in Dallas.

The population is growing in this community so why are there no plans to build another grocery store or expand Walmart into a super store? Is it because Safeway doesn’t want the competition with the deli and bakery so they can keep their prices high! I understand they are the highest money making store in the state of Oregon.

And by the way, what are the plans of reopening the liquor store?

Calleen Harrison Dallas

Breaking through the falsehoods of the homeless

“Polk County doesn’t have many people without homes.”

False.

According to data from the Polk County Family and Community Outreach, there are more than 100 people who are unhoused in Polk County -- the entire county except for West Salem.

Safety is what allows people to begin to heal from the trauma that comes from being unsheltered.

Safety is what helps people to begin to address mental health issues and substance abuse problems.

“There are no barriers or requirements.”

False.

The shelter housing will allow people to remain with their partner, their pets, and their property. We also do not check income, backgrounds, or drug test people before they are allowed to move into our shelters. Sometimes people need a safe place to sleep before they are able to work on a substance abuse problem. In fact, sometimes people are only using illegal drugs because they are trying to cope with the stress of living in an unsafe environment, or they don’t have access to medical care and so they are using substances to self-medicate. Once people have a safe and supportive place to sleep, those behaviors that might have kept them out of other shelters often disappear.

Each year, over 600 000 people leave state and federal prisons. Everyone deserves to have access to safe housing, including people with criminal records.

“There is no way to stay safe.”

False.

Sites are staffed 24/7. The safety team is trained at Oregon’s Department of Public Safety and Standards Training.

Bob and Carol Christ Dallas

Independence awarded EDA Grant for water treatment plant design project

The city of Independence has been awarded a $440,318 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) as part of the 2023 Disaster Supplemental Funding program. This investment will support critical planning and preliminary design work for a new water treatment plant, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the community for decades to come while enhancing the region’s infrastructure resilience.

The project includes a feasibility study, preliminary design, and wetland delineation fieldwork for a new raw water intake facility and its associated treatment processes. With a total project cost of $550 398 this effort is poised to provide the data and groundwork necessary to develop infrastructure that supports economic development, business retention, and population growth in Polk County and beyond.

“This grant represents a vital step forward in ensuring Independence has the resources to reliably supply water to our growing community for generations,” said city manager Kenna West. “By investing in resilient infrastructure, we are not only safeguarding our resources but also laying the foundation for economic growth and sustainability in our region.”

The investment aligns with the EDA’s mission to promote regional economic revitalization and resiliency in the wake of natural disasters. Once completed, the project is expected to diversify the local economic base, attract new businesses, and strengthen the community’s ability to recover from and adapt to future challenges. The EDA’s grant process is highly competitive, with funding awarded based on project merit, applicant eligibility, and the availability of funds. For more information about the EDA and its programs, go to www.eda. gov.

WOU empowers faculty with culturally sustaining learning initiative

Western Oregon University’s Center for Teaching and Learning offers valuable opportunities and resources for faculty to enhance their teaching practices, both online and in-person.

The CTL focuses on faculty development programming, instructional design consultations, and the integration

of technology in education. One of its primary goals is to deliver high-quality, inclusive courses funded through sustainability initiatives. This includes providing grants that equip faculty with the tools and resources needed to diversify and decolonize the curriculum.

Jaclyn Caires-Hurley, Ph.D., associate professor of

Multicultural Education and Critical Pedagogy, launched an initiative for 10 faculty members to explore culturally sustaining pedagogy with the support of equity coaching this past spring, utilizing grant funding.

This program model integrates culturally sustaining practices with instructional design, engaging faculty

through community-responsive research. This approach actively involves community members, organizations, and stakeholders to drive meaningful change. Over the course of ten weeks, the faculty members will learn about culturally and linguistically sustainable pedagogy and reflect on how to transform

their teaching through critical, multicultural perspectives.

“This opportunity would not have been possible without the Center for Teaching and Learning,” said CairesHurley. “I think equity coaching is a valuable resource for faculty looking to transform their practices from a lens of cultural sustainability.”

Looking ahead, CairesHurley envisions expanding this program beyond a single term, allowing participating faculty more time to learn, plan, implement, and reflect on their teaching practices. For more information on WOU’s Center for Teaching and Learning, go to https:// wou.edu/ctl.

WOU awarded $650,000 Hispanic student success grant

Western Oregon University’s College of Education has been awarded a $650,000 Student Success Grant for Hispanics from the Oregon Department of Education, to enhance partnerships with Central School District and the communities of Monmouth and Independence, to expand resources and programs for bilingual education.

The grant will facilitate a range of initiatives within Central School District, including:

- Equity-Centered Professional Development for planning and

Briefs

From Page A2

jotform.com/jlainvolve/ dallas-police-station-ooh.

A new, larger station has been proposed at 147 SE Court St., the current site of the Polk County ItemizerObserver, next to the department’s current facilities. This new station would be more secure and provide space for training, evidence processing and other essential tasks. More information about the project is available at the online open house. This virtual open house provides an overview of the project, including floor plans and details about the future site.

delivering training for educators to promote equity in the classroom.

- Advisory Board Establishment to create a student and family advisory board to ensure community input.

- Peer Mentoring Program for establishing a mentoring program that pairs high school students with elementary students to foster academic growth and support.

- Community events that promote literacy, school attendance, and post-secondary education opportunities.

Dallas man arrested for child luring in Lincoln City

A Dallas man was arrested Dec. 2 on several charged stemming from an undercover child luring sting. From November to early December, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office used decoy social media accounts for online child luring investigations. During the investigation, deputies posed as underage children on various online social media platforms and were contacted by an adult male who was offering to meet for sexual encounters.

On Dec. 2, Danny Hicks, 58, was arrested and charged with the crimes of luring a minor, online sexual corruption of a child in the second degree,

- Coaching in ESOL and Bilingual Education that provide targeted coaching for educators in English for Speakers of Other Languages and bilingual education.

- Policy evaluation to conduct and assess the district’s equity team to enhance educational practices and policies.

- Expansion of MECHA Programming, a Mexican-American student organization that promotes unity and empowerment through civic engagement. It will expand its program to middle schools,

encouraging sexual abuse of animals and attempted using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct. At the time of his arrest, Danny, whose last residence of record was Dallas, was already lodged at the Lincoln County Jail with similar charges stemming from a similar investigation conducted by the Lincoln City Police Department.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office wants to encourage parents to monitor their children’s social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in an effort to reduce criminal activity and to further enhance the safety of our community.

promoting cultural awareness and academic success.

- Afterschool literacy support for programs focused on literacy development.

- Grow Your Own Multilingual Future Teachers Program that cultivates future multilingual educators within the community.

- Post-Secondary Connections to create peer-tutoring opportunities and connections between MECHA and Latiné college students at Western Oregon University.

Professors Jessica Dougherty, Marie LeJeune, and Mandy Olsen, all co-PI’s who will manage the grant, look forward to collaborating with colleagues and community partners to implement impactful strategies that empower Latiné students.

“This grant represents a significant investment in the future of Latiné students in the region and reflects Western’s commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment,” they said in a shared statement.

Bobbi Quiring

March 30, 1955 – Nov. 6, 2024

Bobbi (Goettling) Quiring was born in Portland, Oregon, to Robert Goettling and Donna Carpenter. She was the middle of three girls.

Bobbi lived in the Vancouver, Washington, area until she was three years old when she moved to Keizer, Oregon.

In the 1970s, Bobbi started attending Salem Alliance Church where she later met her husband, Duane Quiring.

Bobbi graduated from McNary High School in 1973 She then went to George Fox University for one year to take as many bible classes as possible. She had no plans to graduate. Her dream was to be a wife and mom someday.

Bobbi started her career working in a law office for Brad Coleman. She later moved on to working for Howell-Edwards-Doerksen Funeral Home in 1979. Bobbi worked there until 1999 when she opened her own bookkeeping business, Integrity Accounting. She continued to work up until her death.

Bobbi was especially gifted in making those around her feel comfortable, constantly putting others ahead of herself. Her gift of hospitality will be greatly missed. We will feel the loss of her sassy, witty interchanges filled with humor, especially the sons-in-law.

Bobbi loved spending time with her family and friends. During the COVID pandemic, Duane and Bobbi joined a fellowship group that met every couple of weeks for food, fellowship and laughter. She also enjoyed meeting regularly with her knitting group (even though she crochets) and with her lunch ladies. Bobbi enjoyed sewing and spending time with her kids and grandkids. Her presence with her family and friends will be greatly missed.

Bobbi is survived by her loving husband, Duane, and her three daughters, Amy (John), Nicole (Brian) and April. She is also survived by her adorable grandchildren Colton (14), Reese (13), Wyatt (9), Bennett (7), Mari (6), Ethan (3), Elliott (2) and Baby Boy (May 2025).

Bobbi is also survived by her sister, Linda (Bob) Ashcraft, and many other loved family members.

Our family is comforted by the fact that she is finally pain free, with Jesus, her family and still snuggling/rocking grandbabies in heaven.

Bobbi’s Celebration of Life was on Dec. 6 2024

at Salem Alliance Church. Arrangements by City View Funeral Home, Salem, Oregon.

Marion Eva Baker

July 22, 1929 - Nov. 3, 2024

Marion Eva Baker passed peacefully in the company of loved ones on Nov. 3, 2024, at the age of 95. She was born on July 22, 1929, in Colebrook, New Hampshire, the first of seven children born to Keene and Eva Frick.

In 1945, seeking a better life, the family packed up their car and drove across the country to settle in Oregon.

After a time spent moving around following the crop picking, they eventually purchased and worked in a small farm in Forest Grove.

After graduating from high school, she entered the working world with the goal of having a career. She married Jack Potterf and in 1954 they welcomed their only son Gary who preceded her in death in August 2019

In the mid-1960s she and Gary moved to the Salem area and began working for the state of Oregon Public Utility Commission where she spent the rest of her working days until retirement.

Once settled in the area, she met and married William (Bill) Baker. They were married nearly 40 years residing in Independence where she continued to live after his passing in 2007

Much to her delight with her marriage to Bill, she welcomed his two daughters Patty and Karen. She also found much love and joy being known as “Grammie” as the grandchildren and great grandchildren were added to the family. After retirement she devoted her time to hobbies and other interests. She was a natural caregiver and along with caring for family members and friends she also spent several years as a volunteer for Hospice.

She loved painting ceramics and one of her favorite projects was painting Santa Clauses from around the world and researching the history and traditions from each country. She had display cabinets full of Santas in her home. Sharing her love of ceramics with others she opened a small shop called “The Ceramic Barn” where she taught different painting techniques. She had many wonderful decades long friendships with the people that came to her shop.

OBITUARY

She also loved spending time in her yard and even at 95 could be seen weeding, planting or pruning. In 2008 she welcomed the companionship and eventual marriage to Lloyd Coffman. They spent many wonderful years traveling, seeing the sights and exploring on their driving trips around the country.

Marion is survived by her husband Lloyd and her only remaining sibling, Sue Wright of Independence, along with many children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

At her request no services will be held. Her internment will be at Fir Crest cemetery in Monmouth, Oregon.

Farnstrom Mortuary is handling the arrangements. If one wishes to make a contribution in her memory, please do so to Polk County Fire District One. She always spoke highly of them and was very appreciative of their help during her son Gary’s illness.

A lifelong goal for Marion was to be a kind and nurturing person. There are many people who will remember her for those qualities and more. She will be dearly missed.

Jennifer Joan Russell Mar. 8, 1960 – Nov. 23, 2024

Jennifer Joan Russell was born in Portland, March 8 1960, and raised in Salem.

Jennifer graduated from Sprague High School, then went to work for Pacific Northwest Bell and retired from U.S West. She enrolled at Oregon School of Massage, graduated and opened a successful office as a licensed massage therapist.

She passed away quietly on Nov. 23 2024, surrounded by family and friends at home. She was a very special person with a great sense of humor, who would bend over backwards to help friends and strangers alike. She enjoyed life and all the people that surrounded her. She was very artistic, was always amazing to her family and friends with her works of art. Her happy places were camping, anything to do with family, and Kona.

She is very much missed by all. She was my companion, wife and best friend. She did not want a service but would like you to go to a favorite place and think of her, honor her soul.

Beverly Jones White

Jan. 22, 1932 – Nov. 11, 2024

Beverly Jones White, affectionately known as “Dobbie” to her grandchildren, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on Jan. 22 1932, and passed away peacefully on Nov. 11 2024 at the age of 92. Throughout her life she radiated warmth, generosity and kindness to all, exemplifying the values and faith she held dear.

Beverly was the second of two daughters of Gwendoline and Idris Jones. As her father was a chief radioman in the US Navy, Beverly lived in both Hawaii and Panama. Her family eventually settled down in Los Angeles where she attended elementary, junior high and high school.

Beverly attended the University of California, Berkeley where she graduated with a BA in Latin American Studies. It was there that she met the love of her life, Donald White. Following their wedding they honeymooned (camped!) for five weeks visiting numerous national parks en route to Ithaca, New York.

Beverly taught first and second grade at a country school while Don attended Cornell University and obtained his Ph.D. While in Ithaca Beverly gave birth to their first three children. In 1960, Beverly and Don moved to Walnut Creek, California, where their last two children were born. A devout Christian, Beverly was active in Grace Presbyterian Church in Walnut Creek.

In 1971, Beverly and Don moved their family to Monmouth, Oregon, where Don took a professorship at Oregon College of Education. Beverly learned American Sign Language and worked at the Oregon School for the Deaf in Salem. She also interpreted for deaf students at OCE and worked for Central School District in a number of roles. Beverly and Don were active members of Christ’s Church, playing in the bell choir and serving where needed. She was frequently seen planting bulbs and maintaining the gardens. Her other activities in Monmouth included Hiking Club, Gardening Club, Bridge Club, and the Food Pantry. For many years she opened the Senior Center weekday mornings for yoga, coffee and social gatherings.

Beverly and Don were deeply committed to their family. They loved the outdoors and planned numerous family reunions, camping adventures, and/or backpacking trips every summer. They backpacked in the Canadian Rockies, the Cascade Range, the Tetons, and the Sierra Nevada where they also led

burro trips for the Sierra Club. Throughout the years they eventually backpacked the entire length of the 211-mile John Muir Trail and many parts of the Pacific Crest Trail. Their last trip was the summer before Don passed in January of 2008. Beverly was 75! Even while using a walker near the end of her days, Beverly would say how much she wished that she could go backpacking again.

Beverly loved to travel. Her many adventures included trips to Asia, South America, Africa and Europe. She and Don lived in Grenoble, France, on three different occasions. As Beverly loved languages, she studied French diligently and spoke it very well. She and Don returned to Europe on numerous occasions. Several of these trips included grandchildren, giving them travel and cultural experiences, and time with their French family.

Beverly and Don were married for 54 years before Don passed away from cancer in January of 2008. Beverly is survived by her three daughters Jeri, Holly and Erin; her elder son, Brett (her younger son Scott passed away in 2023); her 13 grandchildren; and her four great grandchildren (with a fifth on the way).

Beverly’s legacy will be her unconditional love, values she imparted, memories of her warm and caring spirit, her calm demeanor, and her appreciation for all who knew her.

Beverly’s memorial will be held on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Christ’s Church in Monmouth, Oregon. Suggestions for memorial donations to organizations important to Beverly and Don include Habitat for Humanity, Heifer International, Union Gospel Mission in Salem, and Christ’s Church Methodist and Presbyterian United in Monmouth.

Douglas Lee Fast

July 25, 1950 - Dec. 1, 2024

Written by Doug’s wife, Genie

On July 25 1950, my wonderful husband, Douglas Lee Fast was born to Paula and Marvin Fast of Dallas, Oregon, in the old Dallas hospital. As the second son, he joined his brother Dan, and two years later, they welcomed Denis. Doug and his brothers grew up helping their dad on the family farm near Perrydale. Those busy chore filled days were not without fun and mischief.

Even I haven’t heard all the stories about “those Fast boys”.

Doug graduated as valedictorian from Perrydale High School in 1968, excelling in academics, football and basketball, and was very active in his church youth group. Doug attended Chemeketa community college, as well as Oregon College of Education in Monmouth, Oregon. Ultimately Doug obtained a Real Estate Appraisers’ License.

In 1972, the Lord led Doug to join a short-term mission team to Italy, sponsored by Greater Europe Mission. This team was comprised of 25 young adults from across the nation. I happened to be in that group. It was while we were in Italy that Doug and I met and fell in love. We spent nearly two years immersed in church planting work in Rome,

making friends, enjoying the adventure, which included travels on a little motorcycle purchased with funds sent by a friend from EBC. We were married in Jackson, Mississippi, on March 21, 1975. I couldn’t make a Southerner out of Doug, so we headed west to Oregon to begin our life together. Being a part of the young married group at church was important to us. During those first years Doug raised Holstein heifers for dairies and then gradually began crop farming. Life on the farm was both enjoyable and challenging. Doug was hardworking, he put his trust in God to get us through the highs and lows that naturally come with farming. Our marriage was blessed with three sons - Kirk (1976), Erik (1978) and Cory (1981). Doug was proud of the boys’ help on the farm as well as their participation in school and sports activities. Doug delighted in seeing his sons grow and become fathers themselves, taking great joy in his role as a grandfather and eagerly anticipating his new role as a great-grandfather.

Doug also served quite a few years on the Polk County Farm Service Agency Committee. Hunting trips with friends to locations in Oregon and other western states were enjoyable after the harvest and planting seasons were completed. We both enjoyed a trip to New Zealand in March of 2007 with dear friends. The red stag on the wall in our cabin was his prize trophy from that trip. Our trip to Israel in 2022 with EBC was our most rewarding vacation.

Doug and I were looking forward to more travel and less work in the years ahead; 2025 was going to be our banner year as we were planning to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary in March and Doug’s 75th birthday in July. In April he would become a great grandpa.

However, Doug got sick in August of this year and had major surgery in September which resulted in a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Ensuing complications led to him leaving us for Heaven on Sunday, Dec 1 2024, as the sun shown brilliantly through the window in his hospital room. Our sons and I were with him, not wanting him to leave us but realizing that God was calling him home. The number of days Divinely allotted for Doug before he was born had expired, and he joined his Lord and Savior and many friends and family in Heaven.

We love you Doug, we miss you terribly, but we look forward to when we get to be with you in Heaven.

- Genie and family

Doug is predeceased by his mother Paula Ann Fast. He is survived by his father Marvin Fast (Wilma); wife Genie Fast; sons Kirk Fast (Katie), Erik Fast (Krista) and Cory Fast; brothers Dan Fast (Debby), of Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Denis Fast (Lisa), of Redmond, Oregon; and grandchildren Julia Fast, Connor Fast, Ashley Fast, Kristin Fast, Kaylee Kiger (Dane), Gavin Berning, Saoirse Fast and Caoimhe Fast. A funeral service is at 1 p.m. Dec. 20, 2024, at Salt Creek Baptist Church. A visitation is from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 19, 2024, at Bollman’s Tribute Center.

Burial follows at 1 p.m. Dec. 19 at Salt Creek Cemetery. To leave an online condolence or to share a memory with the family, go to www. BollmansTributeCenter.com. Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

More obituaries next page.

OBITUARY

Jay Maxwell Wright

July 6, 2009 – Nov. 15, 2024

Jay Maxwell Wright, born July 6, 2009, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 15 2024, surrounded by love and comfort.

He leaves behind his devoted mother, Emily Thurman, and his loyal best friend, Charly, a cherished companion who brought him much joy and comfort.

Jay’s bright smile and warm, kind heart touched

everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. A truly special young man, Jay possessed an innocence and purity that reminded us all of the goodness in the world. His laughter, light and love will remain forever in the hearts of the many family members and friends whose lives he enriched. Jay’s life, though short, was filled with love, joy, and countless memories that will be treasured always. His gentle spirit and unyielding positivity were a beacon of hope for all who knew him. “If love could have saved him, he would have lived forever.”

Jay will be profoundly missed by all who loved him.

Services to celebrate his life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the local children’s hospitals in Jay’s memory.

DEATH NOTICE

Richard Wayne Perrimoore

Richard Wayne Perrimoore was born Jan. 3 1961. He passed away December 6, 2024

Homelessness solutions one of LOC legislative priorities

Jeremy C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Homelessness and housing challenges continue to be issues throughout cities across Oregon.

Homelessness and housing are part of the nine priorities adopted by the League of Oregon Cities’ (LOC) Board of Directors for the 2025 and 2026 Oregon legislative sessions. The priorities have been identified through a committee process during the spring of this year, and a vote by the LOC’s 241 member cities this summer.

The following nine issues received the most votes and were adopted by the LOC Board:

1) Community Infrastructure and Housing Development Funding - The LOC will advocate for a comprehensive infrastructure package that supports increased water, sewer, stormwater, and road investments from that state. Without continual infrastructure investments, communities cannot build needed housing; these two priorities are inherently linked. To this end, the LOC will advocate for continued state investments to support the development and preservation of a range of needed housing types and affordability.

includes support for a transition from a gas tax to a road user fee and improved community safety and livability.

3) Recreational Immunity - The LOC will introduce legislation to protect cities and other landowners who open their property for recreational purposes from tort liability claims.

2) 2025 Transportation Package - The LOC will support a robust, long-term, multimodal transportation package focused on: stabilizing funding for operations and maintenance for local governments and ODOT; continued investment in transit and bike/ped programs, safety, and congestion management; and completion of projects from HB 2017. This objective

4) Behavioral Health Enhancements - The LOC will support legislation to expand access to behavioral health treatment beds and allow courts greater ability to direct persons unable to care for themselves into treatment through the civil commitment process.

5) Lodging Tax Flexibility - The LOC will advocate for legislation that increases the flexibility to use locally administered and collected lodging tax revenue to support tourism-impacted services. These services include public safety, community

infrastructure, and housing-related investments.

6) Shelter Funding and Homeless Response - The LOC will support a comprehensive homeless response package to fund the needs of homeless shelters, homeless response efforts statewide, and capital projects. Funding will include baseline operational support to continue and strengthen coordinated regional homeless response and include a range of shelter types and services and other related services.

7) Address Energy Affordability Challenges from Rising Utility Costs - The LOC will support actions to maintain affordable, reliable, and resilient energy resources and invest in programs and new technology that support energy efficiency, renewable energy, battery storage, and resilient communities. These efforts will help address members’ concerns about increased

costs associated with energy usage.

8) Operator-In-Training Apprenticeships - The LOC will advocate for funding apprenticeship training programs and expanding bilingual training opportunities to promote the workforce development of qualified wastewater and drinking water operators.

9) ORS 195 530 Johnson v. Grants Pass - The LOC will advocate public policy that allows cities to respond to the unique needs of their community’s housed and unhoused members. This advocacy will include adjustments to ORS 195 530 to provide cities with the necessary tools to address unsafe camping conditions, safeguard public spaces, and protect the health, safety, and wellness of all community members. For more information about these priorities, visit www. orcities.org.

HEALTH DIRECTORY

CHIROPRACTIC

• JOYNT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Brian Joynt, DC - 629 Clay Street East, Monmouth, OR 97361  Family-oriented chiropractic clinic, dedicated to creating an unparalleled experience of service, quality and care by teaching the true principles of chiropractic. We look forward to empowering each of you to help your family participate more fully in life. New patients welcome. Accept most insurance. Auto/ personal injury and work comp. Massage therapist on site. Complimentary consultations. Call us today to make your appointment (503) 837-0550.

• THORNTON CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Sharon and Marty Thornton - Palmer Graduates - We care, God cures. 1650 Monmouth St., Independence, OR 97351 503-838-3346. Office hours: Mon & Wed 8am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Tues & Thursday 8:30am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Fri 8am-noon.  Serving Polk county for 25 years. Offering Thompson Drop and other hands-on techniques, as well as Advanced Activator Methods and Functional Neurology. We provide gentle and effective full-spine and extremity adjusting for all ages in a loving and caring environment. We are accepting new patients for Family Wellness Care, Medicare, Auto or personal injury & Workers Comp. Licensed Massage Therapy available on site.

COUNSELING

• CROSS AND CROWN COUNSELING  offers counseling services to individuals, couples and families as well as seminars and grief recovery workshops. Areas we support but are not limited to are adolescent, premarital, marriage, family, trauma, crisis, grief, depression, anxiety, anger, divorce, and identity crisis. We help our clients find healing, learn communication skills, and appropriate responses to individual and family needs and how to obtain overall health, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We provide a safe and caring environment to face life situations, address interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict and help individuals realize their full potential in order to live decisively with truth, relevance, perspective, and purpose. Our counselors are NCCA Licensed Clinical Christian Counselors, Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselors and Certified Temperament Counselors. Our office is located at 177 SW Oak St., Dallas, OR 97338. For more information or to schedule an appointment visit our website www. crossandcrowncounseling.com or call (503) 917-1625.

GENERAL DENTISTRY

• WESTON K. MORRILL, DMD - 289 E. Ellendale Suite #201, Dallas. 503-623-6616. Family, preventive, and cosmetic dentistry. Complete dentistry for the entire family. Se habla español.

• KENNETH WINOKUR, DMD - 329 South Main Street Independence, OR 97351. 503-838-1633. High quality service with your comfort in mind. Nitrous oxide gas sedation available. www.independencedental. org

IMAGING SERVICES

• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  offers state-of-the-art, all-digital diagnostic imaging services. With your physician’s referral, we provide bone density tests, CT scans, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, X-ray and MRI services. Check out our comfortable and spacious mammography suite. Our imaging services are located at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-6237302. Learn more at salemhealth.org/westvalley.

LABORATORY SERVICES

• SALEM HEALTH HOSPITALS & CLINICS  provides lab services at three convenient locations in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. Both fully accredited labs accept health care provider referrals for collections and testing. The labs also offer employment and selfreferral drug testing. Appointments are not required at either location. Learn more at salemhealth.org/lab. WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  outpatient lab available weekdays 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekends 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-814-5227

SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – MONMOUTH  is open Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-814-5227.

SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – INDEPENDENCE is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255.

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ REHABILITATION SERVICES

• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  offers a wide range of rehabilitation services. Physical, occupational and speech therapy services are located at 1050 SE Uglow Ave, Dallas, 503-917-2121.

• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC –MONMOUTH offers physical, occupational and speech therapy. Located at 512 Main St., 503-838-1388. Learn more at salemhealth.org/rehab.

PRIMARY CARE

• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS  are accepting new patients in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. With a proactive health care approach, the clinics provide care for all ages. Services include annual exams, immunizations, lifestyle counseling. Learn more at salemhealth.org/primary-care.

Dallas — 1000 SE Uglow Ave., 503-623-8376

Independence — 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255

Independence — Central Health and Wellness Center — 1601 Monmouth St., Suite 100, 503-838-0045

Monmouth — 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-838-1182

URGENT CARE

• BESTMED URGENT CARE  provides treatments and services for time-sensitive injuries and illnesses. We have caring and knowledgeable providers to treat a variety of conditions such as fever & flu, sprains & strains, allergies & asthma, UTIs, and dehydration. Additional services include sports physicals, on-site lab & x-ray, sutures & stitches, and vaccinations. Walkins are welcome. Learn more online at bestmedclinics. com. The BestMed Urgent Care clinic is located at 186 West Ellendale Avenue in Dallas; 971-900-4984.

JEREMY C. RUARK / COUNTRY MEDIA

Cottage Grove Police check on people during the Aug. 22 transition day deadline at the 12th Street homeless camp in that city.

Find the ‘Gnome’ Win $500 Holiday spirit in images

Clue #1 is: Our friendly gnome, an ambassador from the North Pole, has landed in Polk County for the holiday season but is currently lost! Can you help find him? He landed in a town that is named after our 11th vice president who also worked for the Treasury Department!

Clue #2 is : After our friendly Gnome landed, he found himself in a predicament. He was stuck! He can’t see and has reported that it’s VERY cold!

PHOTOS BY DAVID HAYES

(Top) Polk County Search and Rescue officer, Tony Ryan helps Amelia, age 5 of Falls City Shop for presents for her family at the annual Shop with a Cop at Walmart on Saturday.

(Bottom) A child and mom visit Santa during Dallas’ Christmas Town activities.

Sport BRIEF

Calls go against Dragons in overtime loss

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

Visiting Willamette committed 28 fouls in Friday’s game at Dallas. Yet they still squeezed out a 61-59 win in overtime.

PREP SPORTS SCOREBOARD

Boys basketball Dec. 4

Thurston 54, CHS 47

Crow CFCA 31, Falls City 18

Nestucca 58, Perrydale, PHS 22

Girls Basketball Falls City 50, Crow CFCA 17

Dec. 6

Boys Basketball Central 59, Glencoe 50 Willamette 61, Dallas 59

Girls Basketball North Eugene 37 Central 27 Dallas 47, Franklin 32

Dec. 7

Girls Basketball Perrydale 38, Powers 35

Boys Basketball Powers 45, Perrydale 43

PREP SPORTS CALENDAR

Wednesday, Dec. 11

Girls Basketball Perrydale at Falls City, 5:30 p.m.

Boys Basketball Perrydale at Falls City, 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 13

Girls Basketball Falls City at South Wasco HS, 6 p.m. John Howey Memorial Tournament Westview vs. Central, 7 p.m.

Boys Basektball Mapleton at Perrydale, 7 p.m. Central at McMinnville, 7:15 p.m. Falls City at South Wasco HS, 7:30 p.m. John Howey Memorial Tournament

Saturday, Dec. 14

Basketball

Boys and Girls Falls City teams at South Wasco HS John Howey Memorial Tournament, TBD

Monday, Dec. 16

Girls Basketball Tillamook at Dallas, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 17

Boys Basketball Perrydale at C.S. Lewis, 6 p.m. Central at Lake Oswego, 6:30 p.m.

Girls Basketball Sprague at Central, 7 p.m. Dallas at Parkrose, 7:15 p.m.

Boys Basketball Livingstone Adventist at Falls City, 7 p.m.

Helping the Wolverines’ cause was the referees proved even more generous with their calls against the home team. The Dragons, playing before an enthusiastic, often thunderous crowd, were given 36 personals and two technicals.

It didn’t help that the majority of calls came late while the Dragons were nursing a slim lead. The game’s leading scorer, Jacob Hall, netted 33 points for Willamette, 15 from the free throws made in the second half and overtime.

Conversely, Hall was just 1-of-2 on free throw attempts in the first half.

This disparity didn’t go unnoticed by Dallas’s Ray Williams, now in his 37th year of coaching basketball.

“I have never played a home game where the visiting team shot so many free throws and we didn’t,” he said. “I thought we played great defense all night … But the officials kept putting them on the free throw line, so there was nothing we could do. I mean, the kids were playing good defense.”

Dallas senior Sean Ward agreed with his coach.

Still, the Dragons had their chance, from the charity stripe, too. Dallas made 27 free throws out of 44 attempts. That’s 17 points left off the board in a game that went into overtime.

“We just made too many mistakes down the stretch,” Williams said. “We didn’t make our free throws when we needed to.”

Diego Miranda netted 16 points to lead the Dragons, who got 11 points each from Talon Kreiger and Tristan Porter.

Ward and Kreiger combined for 13 rebounds while Derrick Johnson and Zanden McMahill added five boards each.

Jason Butler nailed the game winner for the Wolverines, a trey with less than 10 seconds left in overtime.

Hall, Butler, Berkley Grandberry and Tony Cumberland fouled out for the Wolverines.

The Dragons lost Johnson and Ward to fouls.

For those keeping score, that’s 66 fouls, including technicals, called on the two teams. That’s also more than one foul per minute, which prevented either team from finding their rhythm.

“We committed fouls that were allegedly there, but weren’t,” Ward said. “The refs just beat us. We would beat this team with different refs.”

The Dragons led 15-11 after one quarter, 27-22 at the half and 36- 34 after

three quarters. The game was knotted at 50 at regulation’s end.

Up next for the Dragons is to put last week’s game behind them, so, they can

continue on their season-long quest.

“You just try to get better every day, continue trying,” said Williams. “That’s all.”

Or as Ward put it: “We can have a winning season

this year. We have a bunch of hard workers, and we know how to execute. We just have to put it together.”

The team’s next game is at 6 p.m. Dec. 20, at Glencoe.

Panthers wrestling program sees boost in numbers

By LANCE MASTERSON For

The Itemizer-Observer

Numbers are up for the Central High School wrestling team.

They’ve nearly doubled last year’s squad total, with 28 boys and four girls ready for competition to begin.

“We have more (wrestlers), so it makes for more competition. It’s better,” coach Arnold Garcia said.

More wrestlers also means the Panthers are able to fill all but one weight class, though that could change for the better.

“By the end of the year, we’ll have them all filled,” Garcia said.

The Panthers are anchored by seniors Gabe Haines, Porter Keeney, Case Merritt and Jake Merritt, junior Mason Vela and sophomore Josiah Vela.

Haines placed third at last year’s state tournament. The highest finish for any Panther.

Sophomore Lili Alvarez and junior Mica Tonnsen lead the girls.

Alvarez’s goal is to become even better on the mat.

“I’m pushing myself harder in practice to make it to state again,” she said. “I want to get first at the districts and first at the state tournament.”

Alvarez was fifth at state last year.

Self-motivation is key for any wrestler to achieve best results, the coach said.

“A good wrestler, the guy that’s going to be a

state champion, the female that’s going to be a state champion, is the wrestler that comes in here and doesn’t get told to push themselves. They just do it on their own,” Garcia added. “We can work with them. We can work with anybody. We help develop skills.”

Mason Vela takes his coach’s words to heart. He is pushing himself to exceed last year’s accomplishments. He was third at districts, but lost his two matches at state. This year, he wants to be the highest one standing at the podium.

“I’m a better wrestler now than I was this time last year,” he said. “I’ve just been improving in my shots, and I think my technique has gotten better.”

Vela’s also gotten stronger.

“I’m lifting more than I did last year, and I think that switches into the wrestling mat room,” he added.

Bolstering numbers is an influx of young wrestlers, including seven freshmen, along with members of the school’s soccer program.

“They’re really going to help build the team,” Garcia said of soccer players. “So this connection

is really sweet. Because if they like it, they tell their friends, and their friends will tell their friends.”

Garcia expects the Panthers to improve on last year’s standing in the always tough Mid-Valley Conference.

“We’ll do better,” he said. “Middle of the pack, again. That’s what we tried to do last year, barely made it … Now, we want to step it up, you know, try to finish higher.”

Finishing higher most likely translates into a fifth- or sixth-place finish.

This marks Garcia’s fifth

BY LANCE MASTERSON

though he’s been a paid assistant since 1999

The boys and girls saw tournament action on Saturday. Partial results are:

Girls Battle for the Capital: Alvarez, first; Tonnsen, fifth.

Boys Battle for the Badge (Tillamook): Mason

PHOTO BY LANCE MASTERSON

Dallas players, left to right, are Talon Krieger, Sean Ward and Bertram Latta (no. 34). Also pictured: Jacob Hall (with ball) of Willamette.

season as head coach,

Vela, 190 pounds, third; Porter Keeny, 215, third; Josiah Vela, 150, fourth. At last week’s Churchill meet, Mason Vela, Alvarez and Tonnsen were second. Josiah Vela and Keeney were third.

PHOTO

Arnold Garcia is coaching a larger wrestling team this season at Central High School.

50 years ago

Dec. 11, 1974

Students learn function of local school board

The Dallas School Board had their Monday night meeting at Dallas High School for the benefit of the many high school students who attended. The meeting was conducted in regular form with explanations of the board’s activities explained by Chairman Dr. E.A. Flaming and Superintendent Gordon Kunkle.

Virgil Trick names new Polk Assessor

Acting Assessor Virgil Trick was appointed Polk County Assessor for the remaining two years of Bob Barnes’ unexpired term at this week’s meeting of the Polk County Board of Commissioners. In making the decision, commissioners said that they had given the matter great study and had reviewed all eligible candidates.

Fair board hears log show proposal

Phillip Jones, Larry Lester, Jim Oneth and Curley Spencer met with the Polk County Fair Board Thursday night, Dec. 5,

to discuss plans for the 1975 fair. After the enormous success the Dallas Logging Club displayed in September it was the opinion of both the Fair Board and the Dallas Loggers that this show should be held during the annual Polk County Fair.

Dallas quickness too much for Celts

A week ago Tuesday evening, the Dallas basketball team swept three abbreviated games in the McMinnville jamboree. They clipped the hosting Grizzlies 18-11, buried Silverton 25-9 and edged Estacada 11 to 7. Then, Friday evening, they kept their slate clean by eclipsing the visiting McNary Celts from Salem 66-50

40 years ago

Dec. 12, 1984

Polk County logging family praised Long-time Willamina logger Elwin Littlejohn and his family operation were named the outstanding “Conservation Farmer of the Year” by the Polk Soil and Water Conservation District Thursday at its annual meeting and banquet. Littlejohn, his wife Edith and their three

sons and daughters have spent 50 years of work managing a farm that has grown into an operation which harvests timber, raises beef and grows grain.

Holiday sales on upswing

Dallas shoppers are joining the rest of America in their choice of Christmas presents,

according to a recent survey of several local businesses. Cabbage Patch dolls and related items, Transformers and other robot-type toys, as well as the game of Trivial Pursuit, video cassette recorders and microwave ovens are all much sought-after items to place under the Christmas tree, area businesses report. Most businesses also indicated

that shoppers seem to be buying earlier than usual this year.

Dallas wrestlers unbeaten

The Dallas High School wrestling team opened its season in grand style last week, winning a pair of four-team tournaments. The Dragons captured the Franklin Tournament in Portland on Thursday, scoring 221 points to 161 for Franklin and 113 for Cleveland and McMinnville.

PHOTO

This week’s flashback is from Dec. 12, 1984: Conference with Santa – Stacey Millhouser, 8 years old, visits with Santa at Breakfast with Santa on Saturday at Whitworth School. She wants a Michael Jackson doll.

PHOTO BY DAVID HAYES

TOWN CRIER

Community Calendar Dec. 1-18

Wednesday, Dec. 11

• 7 a.m. - Library Board Meeting, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 9:30 a.m. - Independence Municipal Court, City Hall, 555 South Main St.

• 10 a.m. – Four Handed Pinochle/Cards/Table Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10 a.m. - Tai Chi, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 10:30 a.m. - Story Time with Miss Jo, Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.

• 11 a.m. - Mah-Jong, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 4 p.m. - Connecting With Loose Threads for Charity, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 5:30 p.m. - Heritage Museum Advisory Board Meeting, Heritage Museum, 281 S 2nd St.

• 6:30 p.m. - Get Lit Book Club, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S., to find out the monthly selection contact the library at (503) 838-1932 or ckasperick@ ci.monmouth.or.us

Thursday, Dec. 12

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 9 a.m. - Community Talk with the Independence City Manager, Brew Coffee & Tap House, 211 S. Main St.

• 10 a.m. - Cards/table games, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10:15 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 11 a.m. - Caring for the Caregiver Workshop, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 11:30 a.m. - Lunch Bunch, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 11:10 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 12 p.m. - Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 1 p.m. - Diversity 101 Workshop, Monmouth Senior Community Center (center closed during workshop)

• 5 p.m. - Dallas Library Book Discussion: “The Precious Days” by Ann Pachet, 950 Main St.

• 6 p.m. - Dallas Planning Commission meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

• 6 p.m. - Community Talk with the Independence City Manager, Golden Hop Saloon, 133 C St., Independence

• 6:30 p.m. - Connecting Loose Threads, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 6:30 p.m. - Monmouth Historic Commission social gathering at the Monmouth Grain Station Restaurant, 220 Pacific Ave. S.

• 7 p.m. - Climate Cafe, Monmouth Senior Community Center, 180 Warren St. S. Friday, Dec. 13

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 10 a.m. - Listening Ear, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead Tours, 5705 Salem Dallas Hwy NW

• 10 a.m. – Six handed Pinochle/Art Workshop/ Listening Ear/Cards/Table

Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10 a.m. - Writer’s

Workshop, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 1 p.m. - Tai Chi with Cheryl/Age Cafe, Monmouth

Senior Community Center

• 1:30 p.m. - Jewelry

Making, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 5 p.m. - Bingo Dinner, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 6 p.m. - Bingo, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 6 p.m. - Live Music: Midnight Express, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

• 6 p.m. - Dallas Christmas Carolers, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

• 6:30 p.m. - Acoustic Music Jam, Guthrie Park, 4320 Kings Valley Highway

S.

• 6:30 p.m. - MonmouthIndependence YMCA Holiday Fundraiser: Joy to the World, dinner and auction at WOU Pacific Room, doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 14

• 10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead Tours, 5705 Salem

Dallas Hwy NW

• 11 a.m. - Plant Propagation Education and House Plant Exchange, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 11:30 a.m. - Dallas Area Senior Center General Meeting and Potluck

• 2 p.m. - Live Music: Meziere/Husser Duo, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

• 6 p.m. - Live Music: Roundhouse, Redgate Winery,

8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

• 7 p.m. - Live Music: Scott Wilson, Golden Hop Saloon, 133 C St., Independence

• 7:30 p.m. - Pentacle Theatre presents “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”, 324 52nd Ave. NW, (Salem-Dallas Highway 22), purchase tickets at https:// pentacletheatre.org

Sunday, Dec. 15

• 2 p.m. - Live Music: Mitch Lies, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

• 2 p.m. - Pentacle Theatre presents “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”, 324 52nd Ave. NW, (Salem-Dallas Highway 22), purchase tickets at https://pentacletheatre.org

• Monday, Dec. 16

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 10 a.m. - Cards/table games/5 Crowns Game, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10 a.m. - Hand & Foot/ Cribbage/caregiver support, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 11 a.m. - Lunch with Meals on Wheels/Card Making with Jen, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 12 p.m. - Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 4 p.m. - Karaoke, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 4 p.m. - Youth Coding League, for grades 5-8, Independence Library, 175 Monmouth St.

• 6:30 p.m. - New Horizons Orchestra, Monmouth Senior Community Center

Community Briefs

Tuesday, Dec. 17

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth

Senior Community Center

• 9 a.m. - Wii Bowling/ Walking Club, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 10 a.m. - Cards/Table Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10:30 a.m. - Children’s Storytime, for ages 5 and under, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

• 10:30 a.m. - Family Storytime, for ages 3-5, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S

• 10:30 a.m. - Circle of Friends, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 11:10 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 12 p.m. - Pinochle, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 12 p.m. - Senior Advisory Board Meeting, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 1 p.m. - Healthy Soul, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 4 p.m. - Dallas Public Library Board meeting, Grace Scatterday Room at the Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

• 5 p.m. - Teen Christmas Cupcake Challenge, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St., sign-ups required at the library

• 5 p.m. - Tiny Art Paint Night, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 6 p.m. - Dallas Police Department Open House, City Hall, 187 Court St.

• 6:30 p.m. - Dance: Ballroom, Monmouth Senior Community Center

• 6:30 p.m. - Monmouth City Council meeting, City Hall, 151 Main St. W.

• 7 p.m.

YMCA hosts Holiday Fundraiser Dec. 13 The Monmouth Independence Family YMCA hosts a Holiday Fundraiser Dec. 13 in the Pacific Room at Western Oregon University. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Program, including dinner and auction, begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (503) 838-4042

Community Center hosts annual Christmas program Dec. 13

In lieu of the weekly Friday Night Music Jam on Dec. 13, the Guthrie Park Community Center hosts their annual Christmas program and fundraiser from 7-10 p.m. at 4320 South Kings Valley Highway. The fundraiser helps pay for the maintenance and operations of Guthrie Park Community Center. Performers will perform live Holiday music. In addition to coffee, tea and holiday treats being provided, Santa Claus will visit with the children after the show. For information call or text (503) 385-5060 or email guthriepark@gmail. com.

Library hosts Dallas Christmas Carolers Dec. 13

The Dallas Library will host the Dallas Christmas Carolers at 6 p.m. Dec. 13

This free event, located at 950 Main St., will feature

beautiful renditions of traditional Christmas songs. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, you can contact the Dallas Library at 503-6232633 or visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/ dallaslibraryoregon.

Polk County 4-H hosts holiday centerpiece workshop Dec. 13

Oregon 4-H Polk County hosts a workshop for youth to create their own holiday centerpiece from 3-4 p.m. Dec. 13 at 289 E. Ellendale, Suite 301 in Dallas. Bring your own container or use one provided. Free for 4-H members, $5 for nonmembers. To sign up, go to https:// beav.es/GYW.

Monmouth Library hosts plant propagation, exchange Dec. 14

The Polk County Master Gardeners present Plant Propagation Education and House Plant Exchange on Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. Bring a small to medium sized house plant to exchange.

The Grove Community hosts Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt Dec. 14

The Grove Community presents their 12th Annual Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt Dec. 14 from 6-9 p.m. at 341 NE Kings

Valley Highway, outside Dallas. There will be fun, prizes and food to share.

YMCA hosts Parents Night Out Dec. 14

Need a date night just for adults or some alone time to holiday shop? The Monmouth Independence Family YMCA hosts a Parents Night Out event Dec. 14 from 6-9 p.m. at 425 Gwinn St. in Monmouth. Drop the kids off, ages kindergarten through sixth grade for night of entertainment and joy. For more information, call (503) 838-4042

Court Street

Pub hosts Ugly Sweater Christmas party Dec. 14

The Court Street Pub, located at 186 SW Court St., in Dallas, hosts an Ugly Sweater Christmas Party Dec. 14 from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. There will be $200 cash to the best creative ugly sweater. Sing karaoke and play games. There will be raffles every hour for really cool prizes.

Salem Philharmonia hosts family concert Dec. 14-15

The Salem Philharmonia, featuring musicians from Polk and Marion counties, presents an All Ages Family Concert at 2 p.m. Dec. 14 and 15 at the East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave. NE. Youth 17 and under are free. There will be an

opportunity to touch and try instruments at their petting zoo, which opens at 1 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.salemphil.org.

France School of Dance hosts fundraiser performance Dec. 16 Polk County France School of Dance Studio and Keizer France School of Dance Studio present their semi-annual dance performance/fundraiser Dec. 16 6:30 p.m. at North Salem High School Auditorium, 765 14th St.,

Salem. Students ages 4 through adult will perform tap, ballet, jazz, hip-hop lyrical and point routines. Admission is $3 per person and per dancer proceeds benefit Marion Polk Food Share. Last December’s performance collected $756 for Marion Polk Food Share, while last May’s performance netted $723. The Brendan Family Foundation matched the May performance total. For more information, contact Linda France Martin at (503) 390-3481, owner and instructor for the France School of Dance studios.

Starlite Lanes hosts clothing drive Dec. 16

The Warm & Fuzzy clothing collection drive returns to the Starlite Lanes at 394 Main St., in Dallas. All clothes collected will be distributed in Polk County to various agencies, including Sable House, The Clothes Closet, the Referral Center and more. Drop off any warm, new or slightly used items such as sweaters, socks, jackets, sweatshirts, gloves, hats, and blankets. Collection dates are Dec. 16 through Jan. 6

See BRIEFS, page B8

PUBLIC NOTICES

PCIO24-3153 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK

is made is the grantor’s failure to pay when due, the following sums: Delinquent Payments: Dates: 4/1/2024 - 11/1/2024 Total: $11,373.12

Late Charges: $0.00

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By Patti Diamond

PHOTO CREDIT: www.JasonCoblentz.com

Probate Department Case No: 24PB10518 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of STANLEY WALTER SCHMIDT, Deceased NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that KEVIN BENTLEY SCHMIDT and KALON BRADLEY SCHMIDT have been appointed CoPersonal Representatives of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them with vouchers attached to the attorney for the CoPersonal Representatives at the following address: JBHW, ATTN: Attorney Andrew Bridge, PO Box 5, Dallas, OR 97338, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the CoPersonal Representatives, or the attorneys for the CoPersonal Representatives. Dated and first published on (Newspaper to insert date of first publication) Attorney for the Co-Personal Representatives Andrew Bridge, OSB No. 194937 Jarvis, Bridge, Halttunen & Weyer, LLC PO Box 5 Dallas, OR 97338 Telephone: (503) 623-6676 Fax: (503) 714-8727 Email Address: bridge@ jbhwlaw.com

PCIO24-3150 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TS No.: 127532-OR Loan No.: ******9001 Reference is made to that certain trust deed (the “Deed of Trust”) executed by CAROLYN REEL, as Grantor, to FIRST AMERICAN TITLE, as Trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS DESIGNATED NOMINEE FOR AMERICAN FINANCING CORPORATION, BENEFICIARY OF THE SECURITY INSTRUMENT, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Beneficiary, dated 11/23/2019, recorded 12/2/2019, as Instrument No. 2019-013987, in the Official Records of Polk County, Oregon, which covers the following described real property situated in Polk County, Oregon: LOT 10, BLOCK 20, WILARK PARK WEST NO. 6, IN THE CITY OF SALEM, POLK COUNTY, OREGON. (PLAT VOLUME 8, PAGE 24) APN: 372206 / 07316-BB-12200 Commonly known as: 1870 WESTCHESTER COURT NW SALEM, OR 97304 The current beneficiary is: US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST Both the beneficiary and the trustee have elected to sell the above-described real property to satisfy the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust and notice has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). The default for which the foreclosure

Beneficiary Advances: $2,965.58 Total Required to Reinstate: $14,338.70 TOTAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF: $214,072.07 By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by the Deed of Trust immediately due and payable, including: the principal sum of $194,129.81 together with interest thereon at the rate of 4 % per annum, from 3/1/2024 until paid, plus all accrued late charges, and all trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs, and any sums advanced by the beneficiary pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust Whereof, notice hereby is given that the undersigned trustee, CLEAR RECON CORP, whose address is 1915 NE Stucki Avenue, Suite 400, Hillsboro, OR 97006, will on 4/3/2025, at the hour of 11:00 AM, standard time, as established by ORS 187.110, AT THE MAIN STREET ENTRANCE TO THE POLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 850 MAIN STREET, DALLAS, OR 97338, sell at public auction to the highest bidder in the form of cash equivalent (certified funds or cashier’s check) the interest in the above-described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time it executed the Deed of Trust, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors

PHOTO CAPTION: One dough, endless possibilities — bake smarter with this versatile cookie recipe!

about 3 minutes until fluffy. Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla, until smooth. On low speed, gradually add the flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until just combined. The dough will be soft. At this point, stir in your chosen mix-ins by hand and refrigerate the dough for 1 hour (minimum) to firm up and blend flavors. At the time of baking: Preheat your oven to 375 F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto a cookie sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

your mix-ins before baking. Refrigerate dough for up to 5 days or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.

THE ALL-IN-ONE COOKIE DOUGH

Yield: 6

www.JasonCoblentz.com

One dough, endless possibilities — bake smarter with this versatile cookie recipe!

in interest acquired after the execution of the Deed of Trust, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Deed of Trust reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than the portion of principal that would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, trustee’s and attorneys’ fees, and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the Deed of Trust at any time not later than five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “grantor” includes

any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the Deed of Trust, the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: 11/20/2024

CLEAR RECON CORP 1915 NE Stucki Avenue, Suite 400 Hillsboro, OR 97006 Phone: 858-750-7777 866-931-0036 Jessica Lopez, Authorized Signatory of Trustee

PCIO24-3140 Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice IN Self StorageSalem Wallace located at 300 Musgrave Ave., NW Salem OR 97304 intends to hold a sale to sell the property stored at the Facility by the below list of Occupants whom are in default at an Auction. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 12/19/2024 at 10:00AM. Serena Watts unit #5001.

Diva Tip: The base recipe makes about 5 1/2 cups of cookie dough. You should be able to get 88 small cookies (1 tablespoon-size scoops), 44 medium cookies (2 tablespoon-size scoops), 29 large cookies (3 tablespoon-size scoops) or 22 XL cookies (1/4 cup-size scoops). The Cookie Collection to Mix, Match, Munch! To a batch of cookie dough add: Best Chocolate Chip: Add a 1 (12ounce) bag of milk chocolate chips, (1 1/2 cups). For extra indulgence, go for 2 cups. Add 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans. Maple Pecan: Add 1 cup chopped pecans and 1/2 teaspoon maple extract. Roll cookies in demerara sugar and press pecan halves (optional) into cookies before baking. Peanut Butter Cookies: Add 1/2 cup peanut butter and 1 cup chopped roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, your choice). Press cookies with a fork to make the obligatory crosshatch pattern. Double Dark Chocolate Delights: Add 1/3 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder and 1 (12-ounce) bag (1 1/2 cups) dark chocolate chips. For 30 more recipe variations, visit my website at divasonadime.com/the-all -in-one-cookie-dough-30-variations. Make Your Cookie, Your Way For a fun, interactive twist on holiday baking, try scooping the plain dough into 1/4 cup portions and letting each guest or family member create their own big cookie! Set up a cookie decorating station with a variety of mix-ins; chocolate chips, sprinkles, dried fruit or even candy bits, and let everyone craft their perfect cookie. After they’ve added their desired mix-ins, simply bake the cookies for 10 to 13 minutes, depending on size. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that’s perfect for sleepovers, family gatherings or any event where everyone wants to get creative and enjoy a homemade treat.

arms. Cut a few arms in the small cocktail-sized wieners, if you wish.

An adult should place the hot dogs in a pan of boiling water. Watch how the “octopus” arms immediately curl as the hot dog heats through and the casing tightens. Carefully remove from the pan, and set each one with the head upright and legs dangling outward on top of a mound of hot, buttered spinach pasta (the seaweed). For the eyes, insert 2 whole cloves or raisins next to each other into the top portion.

Set a small sausage or two (to represent squids) along the side of the plate, chasing after the octopus. Serve with toast that has been cut into sea-themed shapes with cookie cutters. Top with cheese spread or cheese slices cut into the same shapes.

*** Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime — Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

whole cloves or raisins

— Several cocktail-sized sausages such as Hillshire Farm Beef Lit’l Smokies (optional)

Here’s the fun: For each “octopus,” slice a hot dog down the center lengthwise, leaving approximately 1 1/2 inches at one end of the hot dog intact. The uncut end will be the head of the “octopus.” Hand your child a pair of clean and easy-to-handle scissors. Let them cut each of the halves in half lengthwise, then in half again. Be careful to keep the strips attached to the solid top portion of the hot dog. You will now have 8

Extra Learning Fun: Watch a short, popular video on your computer showing the discovery of octopuses manipulating discarded coconut shells and using them for protective shelter. View it and read

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TRIVIA TEST #12345_20241209 FOR RELEASE DECEMBER 9, 2024

By Fifi Rodriguez

• On Dec. 23, 1982, Chaminade University of Honolulu, a school with only 900 students, beat the top-ranked University of Virginia by a mere five points in one of the most stunning upsets in American basketball history. As ESPN’s Chris Berman remarked, “We can’t tell you what happened, but the No. 1 team in college basketball has lost to — we don’t even know who they are.”

• On Dec. 24, 1851, a fire at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroyed approximately twothirds of its 55,000 volumes, including most of Thomas Jefferson’s personal library.

• On Dec. 25, 1962, the film adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” opened in Los Angeles. It was nominated for eight Oscars and won three, and the American Film Institute rated lead character Atticus Finch as the greatest movie hero of the 20th century.

• On Dec. 26, 1820, Moses Austin, a merchant turned mine owner, met with Spanish authorities in San Antonio to ask permission for 300 AngloAmerican families to settle in Texas, in the hope of recovering from bankruptcy via the establishment of a new colony. His request was approved, but he died before he could carry it out, so the task was completed by his son, with more than 20,000 arrivals eventually succeeding in making Texas an independent state.

• On Dec. 27, 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered his secretary of war to seize properties belonging to the Montgomery Ward company after it refused to comply with a labor agreement, announcing that the government would “not tolerate any interference with war production in this critical hour.”

• On Dec. 28, 1908, the worst earthquake in recorded European history struck the Straits of Messina in southern Italy, leveling the cities of Messina and Reggio di Calabria and ultimately causing the deaths of an estimated 100,000 people.

• On Dec. 29, 1170, Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by four of King Henry II’s knights, apparently on his orders. Four years later, Henry was forced to do penance at Becket’s tomb, and his efforts to end the separation between church and state came to an end.

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. LITERATURE: Which Victor Hugo novel was made into an animated Disney movie?

2. MUSIC: In the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” what was the gift on the eighth day?

3. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the Kalahari Desert located?

4. HISTORY: Who was the first African-American justice on the U.S. Supreme Court?

5. BIOLOGY: What is the process called in which a nonreproductive cell divides in two?

6. MOVIES: In the movie “Elf,” what is the name of Santa’s sleigh?

7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is the largest mammal on Earth?

8. U.S. STATES: Where did the first organized celebration of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) take place in the U.S.?

9. ASTRONOMY: Which planet is the smallest in our solar system?

10. TELEVISION: Which 1980s-1990s TV family sitcom had a holiday episode titled “A Very Tanner Christmas”? Answers

1. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”

2. Eight maids a-milking.

3. Southern Africa.

4. Thurgood Marshall.

5. Mitosis.

6. The Kringle 3000. 7. The blue whale.

8. Mobile, Alabama. 9. Mercury. 10. “Full House.” © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

PUBLIC RECORD

Information for the report comes from law enforcement agencies. Not all calls for service are included. The status of arrests reported may change after further investigation. Individuals arrested or suspected of crimes are considered innocent until proven guilty.

Dallas Police Department

Wednesday, Nov. 27

At 10:20 a.m., on Levens Street, Jerry Carmickle was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and lodged at Polk County Jail. He was excluded from Dallas parks after starting a warming fire.

At 1:41 p.m., a report of trespassing on Oak Street. An officer was unable to locate the individual that had been trying to access a locked church door.

At 8:27 p.m., a report of criminal mischief on Hankel Street. Security camera wires had been cut.

At 9:42 p.m., a report of a theft of a screwdriver set on Kings Valley Highway.

Thursday, Nov. 28

At 8 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Uglow Avenue.

At 10:40 a.m., a restaurant door was found open on Ellendale Avenue. It was likely not locked by an employee.

Friday, Nov. 29

At 11:58 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving uninsured on Miller Avenue.

At 1:33 p.m., a report of a house with an open door on Church Street. The house is vacant and the neighbor will contact the owner.

At 2:08 p.m., a motorist on Monmouth Cutoff was cited for driving while suspended and driving uninsured.

At 4:42 p.m., a motorist on Kings Valley Highway was cited for failure to obey a traffic control device.

At 8:25 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Davis Street. It was a verbal disturbance and one individual left.

Saturday, Nov. 30

At 10:45 a.m., Zachary Moore was arrested on Oakdale Avenue for driving under the influence of an intoxicant - alcohol, reckless driving and hit and run - property.

At 12:38 p.m., a report of fraud on Polk Station Road. An individual tried to write a bad check for a vehicle and was trespassed from the car lot.

At 2:30 p.m., a motorist on Birch Street was cited for driving uninsured.

At 5:41 p.m., a report of a theft of an Amazon package on Holman Avenue.

Sunday, Dec. 1

At 12:01 a.m., on Monmouth Cutoff, Michelle Reeves was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 10 :04 a.m., a report of criminal mischief on Allgood Street. An officer is investigating.

At 2:30 p.m., a report of a dog at large on Virginia Drive. The owner was cited as the dog had been out three times in two days.

At 9:59 p.m., a motorist on Miller Avenue was cited for speeding 36 mph in a 25-mph zone in heavy fog.

Monday, Dec. 2 At 1:32 p.m., a report of theft on Kings Valley Highway.

At 1:51 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Academy Street. An officer was unable to locate any activity.

At 5:25 p.m., a report of harassment on Ellendale Avenue. A juvenile was warned for getting rowdy and rough with another juvenile.

Tuesday, Dec. 3

At 12:23 a.m., Julian Ceaser was arrested on Main Street and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant - controlled substance, and failure to obey a traffic control device.

At 7:56 a.m., a motorist on Miller Avenue was cited for driving while using a mobile device and warned for speeding in a school zone.

At 8:07 a.m., Gene Satter was lodged at Polk County Jail on a parole and probation detainer.

At 3:05 p.m., a motorist was cited for using a mobile device while driving on Fairview Avenue.

At 6:56 p.m., a report of a theft of a jacket from a vehicle on Ellendale Avenue.

Wednesday, Dec. 4

At 9:32 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 38 mph in a 20-mph zone on Main Street.

At 2:34 p.m., a motorist was cited for driving while using a mobile device on Washington Street.

Independence Police Department

Wednesday, Nov. 27

At 5:07 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Main Street. An officer discussed conflict resolution skills with subjects.

At 7:56 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding in the fog on William Street.

At 8:55 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding in heavy fog on Main Street.

Thursday, Nov. 28

At 12:25 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding in foggy weather on Monmouth Street.

At 9:36 p.m., a report of juveniles throwing things at houses. No damage was found but an officer warned a large group of juveniles at a neighboring house to stop activities that were upsetting neighbors.

Friday, Nov. 29

At 12:41 a.m., a report of a rifle being shot in the Central Plaza parking lot. A suspect was not found. There were no injuries. The officers interviewed witnesses, collected shell casings, and will continue to investigate.

At 9:36 p.m., a motorist was cited for driving uninsured and warned for no exhaust pipe and dark tint. Officers received a report of a speeding vehicle that almost hit the complainant. It was also reported that the vehicle hit the curb and kept driving. From a description, Monmouth Police stopped a vehicle that was also driving erratically and speeding in Monmouth. Both agency officers noticed signs of impairment, but the driver refused to do standard field sobriety tests. Jessie Gaylor Perry was taken into custody for suspicion of driving under the influence of an intoxicant. He blew a 10% BAC. He was arrested and charged with DUII, reckless driving, four counts of reckless endangerment and failure to perform duties of a driver.

Saturday, Nov. 30

At 6:45 a.m., officers assisted the Monmouth Police Department with a call regarding a fight.

At 9:38 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Evergreen Drive. The officers were able to deescalate the situation between juveniles.

At 10:55 p.m., a report of a prowler on D Street. Officers were unable to locate the suspect.

At 11:36 p.m., an officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle and contacted the driver. The driver gave the officer a different name and DOB than his actual name. After a little investigation, the officer determined the driver was Oscar Porras, Jr., and that he had two outstanding warrants. Porras eventually admitted that who he was, and he was arrested on the two warrants and was charged with giving false information to a police officer.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Thursday, Nov. 28

At 1:32 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Greenwood Road. One party was arrested and charged with harassment and resisting arrest.

At 2:49 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Fair Oaks Drive. It was a civil issue regarding picking up belongings from the house. Deputies stood by while property was exchanged.

At 3:51 p.m., a report of a loose dog on the corner of Mistletoe and McCaleb roads. Deputies were unable to respond due to priority calls and dogs are frequently loose at this location.

At 11:06 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on gated property on Eola Drive NW. The occupant of the vehicle was asleep behind the wheel. Video footage showed him ramming through the gate with his vehicle. He showed signs of impairment and refused a breathalyzer test. A blood sample was obtained, and Brian Wolf was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant, criminal mischief and trespassing. He was lodged at Polk County Jail.

Friday, Nov. 29

At 9:11 a.m., a report of trespassing on Fernwood Court NW. There was a dispute with a neighbor over damage by a dog. The neighbors were informed they were trespassed from the property.

At 2:57 p.m., a deputy saw two individuals unloading a couch from a trailer at Stuart Grenfell Park. There were other items of broken furniture in the trailer. The individuals claimed they were adjusting the couch because it was flopping around and the load was being taken to Salem. The deputy stood by while the couch was reloaded and took information down in case the load was dumped elsewhere.

At 2:43 p.m., a report of loose goats on Harmony Road. The complainant was able to get the goats confined on the owner’s property.

At 9:46 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Yamhill River Road. Mail and packages had been opened and returned to the mailbox. There are no known suspects, no cameras and nothing was missing at this time.

At 11:25 p.m., a motorist was stopped for speeding on Highway 22. Ramiro Yanez Jr. was arrested and charged with posession of a controlled substance – meth and fentanyl, and was cited for speeding and driving uninsured. He was lodged at Polk County Jail.

Saturday, Nov. 30

At 8:19 a.m., Mark Skyberg was arrested and charged with violating a no contact order and was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 1:51 p.m., Joe Rosas was arrested on Marion County Circuit Court warrants and was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 2:37 p.m., a report of trespassing on Andy Griggs Road. The vehicle was gone when the deputies arrived.

At 4:54 p.m., deputies responded to an audible alarm on Westview Drive. There was no sign of forced entry and the business was clear.

At 4:59 p.m., a report of trespassing on Oak Grove Road. An individual had shown up and asked to come into the house. The individual was located south of the location and was officially trespassed from the location.

At 5:03 p.m., a report of shots fired on AR Ford Road. Officers found a deceased sheep and there was no evidence of a crime.

At 11:44 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Talmadge Road. There were no signs of a physical disturbance and both parties denied anything physical happening.

Sunday, Dec. 1

At 2:29 p.m., a report of three dogs dumped on the complainant’s property. Pictures were posted on Facebook and an individual said they possibly recognized the dogs.

At 3:11 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Independence Highway. The complainant appeared intoxicated.

At 3:59 p.m., a report of a fight between inmates at Polk County Jail. There were no apparent injuries and the victim did not want to press charges.

At 4:06 p.m., a report of a dog bite on Wallace Road Northwest. Attempts are being made to contact the owner and check rabies vaccination information.

At 6:54 p.m., a report of a vehicle that hit a bull elk. The driver had a minor wrist injury but declined medical aid. The vehicle sustained damage over $2,500 and was towed to a nearby property. The driver wanted to salvage the elk and the deputy discussed proper salvage procedure

At 10:09 p.m., a report of a possible warming fire in a motorhome on Main Street. The individual was using a woodstove. They had a failure to appear warrant and were cited and released.

At 10:22 p.m., Cody Amburgy was arrested and charged with assault four.

At 11:44 p.m., a motorist was stopped for failure to register their vehicle. The driver was to have no contact with the passenger as a condition of his parole. Carlos Ontiveros was arrested and lodged at Polk County Jail.

Monday, Dec. 2

At 1:22 a.m., a report of suspicious activity on Hoffman Road. Deputies checked the area and were unable to find evidence of anyone on the property.

At 4:50 a.m., a motorist was stopped for running the stop sign on Clow Corner Road. They were cited for speeding 73 mph in a 55-mph zone and failure to obey a traffic control device. The four passengers in the back of the car were not wearing seat belts. Three were warned for failing to wear their seatbelts.

Lawrence Stanley gave a false name and birthdate. He was arrested and charged with giving false information and cited for failing to wear his seatbelt.

At 10:32 a.m., a report of fraud on James Howe Road. The victim’s card had been used in California. They were given information to contact the local police department.

At 12:27 p.m., a report of a possible drunk driver on Highway 51. The motorist was confused and slurring their speech. Medics determined they were having a medical issue and they were transported to the hospital.

At 3:01 p.m., a deputy provided traffic control for the Oregon State Police for a DUII crash on Kings Valley Highway.

At 4:10 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Eola Drive Northwest. A suspect was arrested and charged with trespassing.

At 6:30 p.m., a report of a theft of a computer on Salmon River Highway. A deputy was unable to contact the complainant.

At 9:02 p.m., a report of a burglar in a garage on Randall Way. The deputy assisted the Independence Police Department in clearing the garage. The homeowner had unknowingly pushed the button to open the garage. It is unknown what the noise was but there was no evidence that anyone had been inside.

At 10:10 p.m., a deputy responded to a single vehicle crash on Red Prairie Road. The driver had missed a curve in heavy fog. The driver and

passenger were transported to the hospital.

Tuesday, Dec. 3

At 2:29 a.m., a report of a vehicle in the ditch on Orrs Corner Road. The vehicle was unoccupied and there did not appear to be any property damage. A deputy put yellow tape and a do not call 911 sticker on the vehicle.

At 5:14 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Oakdale Avenue. A father and son were intoxicated and fighting. They were separated by deputies and the son was arrested and charged with assault four and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 12 p.m., a report of a theft of a laptop on Salmon River Highway. There was no proof that the accused individual had taken the laptop.

At 10:08 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Steel Bridge Road. Ashley Hall was arrested for assault four and lodged at Polk County Jail.

Wednesday, Dec. 4

At 1:53 a.m., a deputy ran a license plate and saw the owner was suspended for DUII. Jocelyn Quintanilla was arrested and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 9:02 a.m., a report of harassment at Polk County Jail. Donald Ness threw a cup at a deputy and was charged with aggravated harassment.

At 2:17 p.m., a report of a crash at Cafe 22. A vehicle came off Highway 22 and hit a parked car. The driver appeared confused and then suffered a seizure and was transported by medics.

At 5:55p.m., a report of a prowler on Orchard Heights Place Northwest. The deputies searched inside and out and nothing was found. At 6:53 p.m., a report of a pickup truck crashed into a tree with blood in it. The deputy found that the driver had been transported to the hospital. The driver reported he had lost control on the icy road.

At 10:55 p.m., a driving complaint of a vehicle going slowly and not maintaining their lane on Cessna Street. A deputy stopped the vehicle, and the driver had no signs of impairment but was having trouble seeing in the fog.

jwarren@countrymedia.net

Panthers turn back the Tide in notching first win

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

The Panthers varsity boys basketball team bounced back against Glencoe to notch its first win of the young season.

Central dominated the Crimson Tide, 59-50, on Friday, two days after dropping the season opener against the Thurston Colts, 54-47. Both games were played before enthusiastic home crowds.

“Just happy seeing the community out here supporting us,” said head coach Tyler Allen. “We’ve got a fun team to watch … So we hope to see the crowds keep growing.”

Ryan Burgett recorded a double-double with 25 points and 16 rebounds to power the Panthers in their win. David Walle and Jack Holestine combined for 23 points; freshman Lucas Haines added nine rebounds.

The Panthers, led by Haines, dominated inside, to the tune of 13 offensive and 30 defensive rebounds.

Nate Stiffler had 18 points and eight rebounds while Noah Blair added 11 points and seven boards for the Colts.

The game’s outcome was rarely in doubt. Central (1-1 overall, 0-0 in league) held the scoring advantage in each of the first three quarters. Putting the Panthers up 47-32 heading into the final frame.

It was a different story in the season opener, as first-game jitters were present against Thurston. The boys turned the ball over 18 times, shot 60 percent from the free-throw line and 33 3 percent from the field, including 3-of-13 from beyond the arc.

“We’re a very young team. We only have one

Briefs

From Page B3

Santa visits

WFV Dec. 19

Santa Claus is coming to Willamette Valley Fiber

from 4-6 p.m. Dec. 19 at their Dallas office, 988 SE Jefferson St. Bring

starting player (Holestine) returning for us along with two other guys who swung or played limited minutes for us,” Allen said after the game. “So to come out with some nerves was to be expected. Some inefficiencies on offense were to be expected.”

Holestine certainly did his part to keep Thurston close. The junior netted a game-high 26 points and added four boards. Burgett, a junior, netted 17 points.

“(Holestine) put a lot of weight on his shoulders to carry this team,” Allen said.

There were some defensive breakdowns as well.

“We had some glitches. Our expectations coming into the game was to not allow them to get middle. Stop any dribble penetration. Make them shoot,” Ball said. “At times we looked good. Other times we didn’t.”

But the Panthers, who trailed by 15 points in the fourth quarter, rallied twice to cut that deficit to 6 in the final minutes.

“To see the fight in the guys, and to get down double-digits … and continue to fight and have a chance to get it down to single possession with a shot from the corner was encouraging to see,” Allen said.

Ball also found encouragement in his team’s performance.

“I felt that the energy was there. Just little things we need to work on,” he added. “Little more of the offense through the ball.”

The Colts led 43-26 after three quarters, but were outscored by 10 in the final frame.

Though disappointed with the loss, Allen nonetheless liked what he saw.

“There’s a lot of pieces we can develop and work with. And these guys, by working hard, gave me something that I can bring to practice and help develop.

An Elf meal Dec. 20

your family, take photos with Santa, and enjoy the holiday cheer. Light refreshments and treats will be provided.

YMCA hosts Eat Like

An Elf meal Dec. 20

The Monmouth Independence Family

YMCA hosts Eat Like

from 6-7:30 p.m. at 425 Gwinn St., in Monmouth. Registration is digital. For more information, contact Amanda Schimmel at aschimmel@theyonline. org or visit the YMCA front desk.

Valley Life Center Hosts Christmas Spectacular Dec. 20

Valley Life Center presents their Christmas Spectacular: Home For Christmas, at 7 p.m. Dec. 20 at their Dallas location, 1795 SE Miller Ave.

The event features performances by a Christmas Community Choir, an orchestra, a quartet, drama, a live nativity, and an outside light display. Free tickets are available at the Welcome Center or online at www.valleylife. love.

Harvest CrossFit hosts Row-aThon Dec. 21

Harvest CrossFit’s annual Row-a-Thon returns Dec. 21. Teams

‘Cause (negative) attitude is not coachable, and these guys showed they had a good attitude all game.”

The team’s first road game of the season is 7:15

of 4 will row a marathon together, while also watching favorite Christmas movies at their Dallas location, 745 Main St. To sign up, RSVP by calling (509) 859-3779

Polk County Democrats host Talk About it Tuesdays “Talk About It Tuesdays”, a discussion group for everyone, meets every Tuesday through Dec. 10, from 10-11 a.m. at the Polk County Democrats’ office, 1115 Edgewater St, West Salem. Come with your own topic or join to discuss “Thinking globally; acting locally,” to help decide what’s next. To be put on email-reminders list for future events, or to join the Democrats group, go to www.polkdems.org. Scroll down to sign up under “Newsletter.”

Windermere annual drive provides winter necessities Windermere Real Estate brokers are teaming up

p.m. Friday at McMinnville. Then it’s on to Lake Oswego, at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 17

for “Share the Warmth,” providing essential winter items for those in need. As part of the annual campaign, the Windermere office in Monmouth will be collecting donations through Dec. 20 to benefit the Polk County Warming Centers and Ella Curran Food Bank. This year, the organizations are asking for all sizes of coats, sweaters, heavy sweatshirts, gloves, hats, beanies and new socks, as well as blankets and handwarmers.

To contribute, stop by participating Windermere offices to drop off donations. The Windermere office in Monmouth, located at 150 Main St. E, is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations can also be taken to the following drop-off locations:

- Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S., Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

- Monmouth Fitness Club, 165 Main St. E, daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For a full list of participating Windemere offices, go to https://helpsharethewarmth.com.

Polk County organizations spotlighted at Holiday Village Two local organizations will be spotlighted charities at the Holiday Village, the Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center through Dec. 22

While enjoying the market’s music and treats, and photos with Santa, be sure to stop by on the weekends to learn more about local charities. And on Dec. 19-22, Marion and Polk County YMCA will put up a tree allowing people to sponsor kids’ sports and donate money for activities. The Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center is located at 2330 17th St NE, in Salem. For more information, visit www. oregonstateexpo.org/ magic.

Central returns home Dec. 20, versus Parkrose. Gametime is 7 p.m. All three of these opponents are Class 6A schools.

PHOTO BY LANCE MASTERSON

Applying pressure for the Panthers on Thurston’s Brock Johnson are (from left) Jack Holestine, Branden Ball, Ryan Burgett and Ashen Baker.