PIO417

Brandt experienced unexpected business expenditures

By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer

The Monmouth City Council unanimously approved a second garbage collection rate increase in as many years at their April 2 meeting. Brandt’s Sanitary Service requested a 7 9 percent increase to all rates for all its city customers to be effective May 1. This comes on the heels of a 7 8 percent increase the city council approved last year. Owner Josh Brandt explained regional costs to his operations necessitated requesting an adjustment this year.

“The largest cost is our disposal fee increased 9% last year and another 13% this year, that includes yard debris, cardboard recycling and garbage,” Brandt said.

In addition to landfill fees increasing $2 extra a ton for six-straight years, Brandt said his maintenance costs also went up just last week when Dave Mobile Repair out of Rickreall increased their labor charge from $130 an hour to $145 an hour.

Itemizer-Observer Staff Report

The Polk County Association of Realtors held a question-and-answer session April 11 between the candidates for the Commissioner Seat 1 Race between incumbent Lyle Mordhorst and challenger, and current Monmouth City Council member Roxanne Beltz. The event, held at the Polk County Fairgrounds, was sponsored by the Dallas and Monmouth-Independence Chambers of Commerce.

Each candidate was given three minutes to answer a prepared question (five minutes for one, three-part question). Their responses here are edited down for length. For the entire debate, go to the Dallas Area Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ dallasoregonchamber. What

check out the pizza.’” Another list had Sizzle Pie as best of 2023, but added if you can’t make it there, go to Yeasty Beasty. Then, Waggoner was hit up on Facebook by America’s Favorite Restaurants with a feature opportunity he almost ignored.

“I wasn’t convinced at first. I read that and thought, this is a scam. I’m not going to do this,” he said.

Then the show’s producers called.

“They started talking and I realized this is real. Not some random person. They said ‘We’re coming through Oregon. Do you want to be location we hit?’” Waggoner recalled

The crew of America’s Best Restaurants films Chef Alyssa prepare a baked potato pizza at Yeasty Beasty in Monmouth.

PHOTOS BY DAVID HAYES

County

Seat 1 candidates Roxanne Beltz (left) and incumbent Lyle Mordhorst chat with attendees after

at the Polk County Fairgrounds.

Dallas Rotary seeks summer event sponsors

The Dallas Rotary is seeking community sponsors for its summer 2024 fundraising events that support club service projects, youth scholarships and more.

The Third Annual Celebrating Service Golf Tournament is June 21 and the signature Breakfast in the Park is July 28 Sponsorship levels range from $25 to $1 000 Sponsors at the $100 or above levels receive promotional benefits at both events which combined draw more than 1 000 people.

Recent projects include grants and volunteer support to Dallas Public Library, Dallas Food Bank, Dallas Youth Garden and Bambinos, as well as support to The Kindness Club and Dallas High School seniors. The club also sponsors the Dallas High School Interact Club, promotes international Youth Exchange, and helps with Dallas City Parks maintenance projects. For more information, email dallasoregonrotary@ gmail.com or go online to dallasarearotaryclub.square. site to select a sponsorship level.

Sheriff’s office warns of phone scam

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported there have been numerous calls regarding “Sergeant Chris Edwards” with their agency contacting people about “legal issues.” The PCSO does not have a sergeant by that name, nor do they reach out to people via phone regarding warrants or legal concerns.

If you get any calls from the PCSO office line, (503) 623-9251, please block the number or ignore them. The PCSO’s calls do not show up on caller ID with their office number.

Vendors sought for last day of school celebration

The Independence Downtown Association is gearing up for their second annual Last Day of School Celebration from 3-4 p.m. June 14 at Riverview Park in Independence. The Independence Downtown Association seeks organization/businesses to help support our community. There will be space available by the fountain for tables and pop-up tents. Activities need to be free to students and families. There is no charge to be a vendor. Contact Estefania Lozano at estefania@kinsuregroup. com.

Monmouth unveils city manager candidates

The city of Monmouth invites the community to meet the three city manager candidate finalists - Peter Boyce, Jack Harper and Rochelle Roden - from 9-10 a.m. April 20 at City Hall, 151 Monmouth St. W. Join the administration to learn more about each candidate’s background, experience and vision for the city’s future. Community feedback is essential as the city makes their decision.

Oregon state fire marshal issues grants to boost staffing ahead of wildfire season

By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer

Three local fire districts were among 191 agencies to receive a share of $6 million in grants from the Oregon State Fire Marshal to boost the number of firefighters during wildfire season.

The 2024 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant program is in its third year. Local agencies in the Oregon structural fire service were eligible to apply for up to $35,000. The funding will allow agencies to bring on additional firefighters or increase on-duty hours during the 2024 fire season.

Polk County Fire District No. 1, SW Polk Fire District and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Department of Emergency Services have each received $35 000 in each year the grant was available.

The 2023 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant program was integral to the success in protecting communities, adding more than 1,500 paid

Yeasty

America’s Best Restaurant features

Yeasty Beasty pizza

From Page A1

being asked and not hesitating to say yes.

America’s Favorite Restaurants filmed the episode with Waggoner and his staff March 24 and expects a 15–20-minute episode to be edited by mid May. It will be posted to Yeasty Beasty’s Facebook and Instagram pages first before dropping on the show’s YouTube channel. Waggoner said that’s perfect since so many people have

Monmouth Approves another garbage rate increase

From Page A1

Dr. Estle Harlan, Solid Waste Management consultant, also explained to the city council that last year Brandt, rather than ask for one big rate increase, chose to break their request into two pieces.

“The reason both pieces needed to be so large was our previous increase was in 2016,” Harlan said. “The company then had a disastrous death of their manager and went all those years without an increase.

“With last year’s increase, we were able to get to a 0 1%

firefighters to the Oregon fire service. These added resources allowed agencies to attack fires and keep them small and away from communities and added capacity to respond to other calls, ultimately saving lives.

Polk County Fire District Chief Ben Stange said his agency will use the money to hire volunteers on temporary basis as hourly employees to supplement responses through the wildfire season. Most of the hires the grant targets for hires are college aged, self-employed most of year who volunteer part time for Polk County, Stange said. He added when actively fighting wildfires, the temporary hires help in the rural areas from Pedee to Buena Vista, setting up signs, helping with station upkeep and fuel mitigation. Stange said the grant has helped his agency extremely well since it became available.

“Especially with the call volume quite a bit during the busiest months. It’s been

cut out cable from their TV viewing.

“This day and age, even my grandparents got rid of their cable satellite and just doing YouTube and Netflix and stuff like that now,” he said.

The show features a kitchen segment with chef Alyssa crafting, from start to finish, the making of one of their new favorites, the baked potato pizza.

“It showcases our creativity, one you don’t see at every pizza place,” Waggoner said. It features house made garlic/parmesan blend seasoning, a drizzle of olive oil, provolone/mozzarella cheese, house made garlic mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, red/green onions. And after baking, their

before tax operation margin. We are still well below the operating margin other companies in the industry ask for. But we are content asking for the lower end of the operating margin,” she added.

Harlan explained Monmouth’s rates remain very low compared to nearby cities, while offering larger cart sizes. She said Brandt has 35-gallon, 65-gallon and 95-gallon carts, while others offer 30-, 60- if offered at all, and 90-gallon options.

“This is a family who has been serving you for a very long time. They really pride themselves in a service and keeping rates low,” Harlan said. “Yes, I hope the public understands it’s two big chunks of an increase and in

a huge help the last couple years getting firefighters already certified and have them jump right into the seat to do season work,” Stange said.

SW Polk plans to utilize their $35 000 grant toward SW Polk hiring two people part time hire. In the meantime, they’re also looking for two more from the ranks of Dallas High School, who are18-year-old or older, interested in fire service to do summer internships.

Finally, Mariah Prescott, Admin Services Lieutenant for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Department of Emergency Services said funds will also go toward augmenting their force with parttime and full-time shifts. She added the extra manpower will help with the higher activity on the coastal areas that experience increased need.

“We are very excited. It not only allows up staffing, but increases our capabilities

house made sour cream is drizzled on top.

Next, show host Theo, America’s Best Restaurants “pizza guy,” interviewed Waggoner, having more of a conversation about Yeasty Beasty’s wacky pies. “He was excited about a lot of the products we use, specifically our cheese from Grande which is made with whole milk and no fillers, preservatives or anti-caking agents, just real cheese,” Waggoner said. “The hardest part for me was being on camera and not really knowing where to look or what to do with my hands in between conversation/bites of food and trying to match his energy when he got excited about the food,” Waggoner added. “His

the future hope to come back in a more regular basis.”

Counselor Jon Carey expresses his frustration and surprise that Brandt were back for another request after just 11 months.

“I went back to the minutes from last year and found nothing of this being the first of a two-year plan,” Carey said. “I thought we resolved the primary problem with last year’s increase.”

“We would have asked for 15% if we were solving the whole problem (last year),” Harlan answered. Carey then wanted to know if the increases were to cover increased costs or to get Brandt to the 8-12% industry standard before taxes.

After Harlan answered both, Brandt said he’d love to get his company up to the industry standard.

and train employees,” Prescott said. “It’s a huge advantage for us during high-risk seasons.”

This 2024 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant program is part of a multi-pronged approach to combat wildfire in Oregon.

Over the last three years, the OSFM has made strategic investments to modernize the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System and help communities become more wildfire adapted.

reaction to our house made ranch was over the top but pretty on par with a lot of customer reactions.”

Waggoner said afterwards, when Theo stepped outside to load something in the production van, a camera guy told him me Theo never sticks around to talk after filming is over. “He must really love the pizza because he kept chatting us up. Even though they were on a timeline (they needed to be out by noon) they ended up staying until about 2 talking with the crew and I,” Waggoner said.

He hopes once the show drops, it will help gain traction with new customers that haven’t tried Yeasty Beasty before.

“You can consistently see in our operating margin that we haven’t even been close in a lot of years. My philosophy is to come in and try to get some of these costs taken care of but I haven’t directly come in and said I want to make it 8-10%,” he explained.

“We would be having a conversation of 17% I’m allowed to have that operating margin,” he said. “Yes, we’re trying to reach that 8% but in a very reasonable way so that those costs are massively handed down on my customers.”

One of the industry problems, Brandt added, is they’re facing a tipping fee from $52 a ton to $120-$125 a ton in the near future.

“You’re looking at billions of dollars in one year of increase. So, because we don’t always have those hard

3:20

This grant is part of the OSFM’s Response Ready Oregon initiative. The OSFM is looking for sustained funding for this program and is exploring all options to continue this highly successful grant in 2025 and beyond.

“So far this week we’ve seen a ton of first-time customers that heard about us because of America’s Best Restaurants even though the episode isn’t out yet,” Waggoner said. “Things just organically spread through people sharing our social media posts. Typically spring break is dead for us but this year we’ve been busy in comparison to past years, so I’d say it’s already working.”

Learn more about Yeasty Basty online at https://yeastybeasty.com. Watch for the America’s Best Restaurants to drop on Yeasty Beasty’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/YeastyBeasty.

numbers we’re consistently steps behind,” he said. Trying to express empathy, counselor John Oberst said the increases to both the customer and the provider gives him heartburn, too.

“At the same time I recognize that this secondish 8% increase was preceded by zero, zero, zero, zero. And when you spread that out over a six-year span, it’s less than 3% a year, 2 7 a year,” Oberst said. “The bottom line is you guys have to make enough profit to continue the operation.”

Regardless of expressing his support, Oberst worried about customers on limited, fixed income being hit with this back-to-back garbage rate increases.

“I would like to explore in the future a subsidy to help, some way to help folks who can’t meet this bill,” he said. “Frankly, the alternative is somebody burning garbage in the backyard. Or garbage getting thrown out on the side of the road, which gets expensive in its own right.”

Brandt said the company has measures in place for those situations.

“...we understand that sometimes people have financial hardships that are very difficult. We are more than happy to set up a payment plan. We are always willing

Dallas High School students successfully secured top awards at the Oregon State Thespian Conference April 4-6

Judges gave special recognition by awarding a $1,000 scholarship Amelia Woolsey and a $500 scholarship they created specifically for Elliot Grass due to playwriting prowess for her original production she penned, “Off the

“It may be cold and wet out, but we’re having great fun!” added master gardener Debbie Marsh, The group planted 125 flats of cucumbers and lettuce to be grown for the plant sale.

Tina Palmer, plant sale chairwoman, said, this year’s Polk County Master Gardener plant sale is shaping up to be a great event.

“We will have a larger number of plants than last year and a wider variety of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, natives, trees, shrubs, and berries, as well as a great selection of vegetables and herbs,” Palmer said. PCMGA has partnered with the Chemeketa Community College Horticulture Department to provide many vegetables and annual flowers grown by the students. The Master Gardeners vegetable team will be growing broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, summer squash, greens and several varieties of hot peppers. Other Master Gardeners teams

are growing perennials and natives as well as berries.

New to this year’s plant sale is a Kids’ Corner where youth from a local 4-H Horticulture Club will help youth plant marigolds in colorful pots for $1 Mother’s Day gifts. Kids can also get a scoop of marigold seeds to plant at home.

The Country Store, a perennial favorite, will return with a great selection of garden themed items and yard-sale finds. There will also be vendors like the Red Baron Box Co. and Lollipop Forest Dahlias.

The PCMGA Plant Sale will take place Mother’s Day weekend, May 10-11 at the Polk County Fairgrounds in Rickreall.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Members of the Polk County Master Gardener Association plant vegetable seeds on April 6 for their 32nd Annual Plant Sale fundraiser May 10-11.

If

Drug

education can help young people during 4/20 day

By MARCEL GEMME

Oregon decriminalized small amounts of cannabis in 1973, and by 1998, the state approved cannabis for medical use. In 2014, Oregon became the fourth state to legalize adult-use cannabis. By 2022, the sitting Governor pardoned over 47 000 possession of cannabis convictions and forgave more than $14 million in fees and fines.

4/20 Day is a big celebration in the state. Portland has been known as one of the top cannabis tourism destinations in the nation. Cannabis culture and use are mainstream in the state, and the market grows continually.

Children and teens can often be exposed to cannabis culture early, whether through peer groups, social media, or adults in their lives using recreational marijuana and may have questions. Parents and educators can play an important role and use drug education to help children and teens understand the risks of using marijuana at a young age.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, overall youth use of marijuana in Oregon has remained unchanged. Yet, youth vaping of marijuana increased 295% between 2017 and 2019. Between 8th and 11th graders, the current use of marijuana has been on the decline since 2012. Vaping products are appealing to young people, and there are significant risks.

When parents and educators speak to their kids about cannabis, keep the conversations age-appropriate. Speaking with a five-year-old is much different than speaking with a teenager. Use language and examples a child or teen would understand.

Teach them about the dangers and what to avoid.

Most importantly, put yourself in your kid’s shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations at school or through social media. Make a point of understanding what they are up against.

When speaking to them about cannabis, stay calm and relaxed, stay positive, don’t lecture, and be clear and concise about boundaries without using scare tactics or threats.

However, it’s ok to set rules, guidelines, and expectations and create rules together as a family or class. Parents and educators can be clear about the consequences without using scare tactics or lecturing; clearly state what you expect regarding cannabis use.

Choose informal times to have conversations about cannabis, and do not make a big thing about it. Yet, continue talking to them as they age, and let them know you are always there for them.

Finally, speak to them about peer pressure and talk with them about having an exit plan when they are offered marijuana. Peer pressure is powerful among youth, and having a plan to avoid drug use helps children and students make better choices. Ultimately, it is about assisting them to make good choices as they age.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.

Political advertising or illegal litter?

I won’t vote for political candidates that violate local rules, codes, ordinances or laws! So if you are allowing your campaign teams to plant your signs in the public right of way in our communities, you won’t get my vote. You are supposed to be law makers not law breakers. You should be ashamed of yourselves. Should I mention names? Don’t have to – we have already seen your signs. And if you say you don’t know what your campaigners are doing, that’s even worse! Will that be your style once in office, too? And

INVESTIGATING THE BIBLE: When hope seems

By DAVID CARLSON PASTOR

By LUCIE WINBORNE

• It is impossible for a human to sneeze during sleep due to a bodily state called REM atonia.

• For 200 years tomatoes were considered poisonous in Europe. In reality, their acidity was dissolving poisonous metals like lead from plates.

• Scientists investigating the occasional appearance of thousands of dead fish on the banks of an African river eventually discovered that the cause was huge numbers of hippos pooping in the water.

• Actor Danny DeVito used to be a beautician.

• Ten thousand years ago, everyone’s eyes were brown until

someone living by the Black Sea developed a genetic mutation that turned brown eyes blue.

• In 2007, a gorilla escaped from his exhibit, grabbed and mauled a nearby woman, and then attacked a restaurant. Later it was later revealed that the woman had been making eye contact and smiling at the primate several times a week, something zookeepers had warned her not to do.

• Freelance diamond setter Raffi Stepanian found he could collect enough bits of carelessly dropped diamonds, rubies, platinum and gold on the sidewalks of New York City’s Midtown Diamond District to earn a living.

• In April of 2018, scientists at the Gladstone Institutes in California completely erased Alzheimer’s disease damage in human cells by altering the structure of a single protein.

• Research has shown that taller people are happier but shorter people live longer.

•••

Thought for the Day: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Bernard M. Baruch

In 1994, Kurt Warner stacked groceries on shelves of a Cedar Falls, Iowa grocery store. His dream had died and his NFL career lost. Tryouts with the Green Bay Packers that summer failed and they dropped him before the season started. Now he paid bills with the $5 50/hour job. Later, he signed with the only football team interested, the Arena Football League’s Iowa Barnstormers.

Warner had phenomenal success, leading the team to the league’s top contest, the Arena Bowl for two consecutive years. In 1997, with the help of his future wife, he rekindled his Christian faith. Fast forward three years to his team, the St. Louis Rams, and their Superbowl XXXIV victory and his award as MVP. It’s a thrilling true story, told in the 2021 movie, “American Underdog.” The Bible has its own astounding stories of underdogs who, with God’s intervention, achieve unexpected and remarkable success.

Joseph sat on the cold stone floor of his prison, his dreams shattered. Not long before he had a wonderful future, wrapped in a cloak of stunning colors, a gift from his loving and wealthy father. Then, while on a journey with his jealous brothers, they sold him into slavery to a captain of the Egyptian army. He worked hard and was promoted to the head position of the household. However, when his Egyptian master was away, the man’s wife tried

gone

to draw him into adultery. Joseph refused multiple times.

One day, when Joseph was in the house alone, the woman “…caught him by his garment, saying, ‘Lie with me’. But he left his garment in her hand and fled out of the house. And…she called the men of her household and said to them, ‘He came in to me to lie with me, and I cried out with a loud voice.’” (Genesis 39:12-14, English Standard Version used throughout). The woman told the lie to her husband, Joseph’s mater, and he threw him into Pharaoh’s prison.

Even then Joseph trusted God, who gave him the ability to fathom dreams. He interpreted two prisoners’ dreams, one to become the honored cupbearer of Pharaoh and the other to his hanging. Joseph asked the freed man to remember him, but he did not. Two years later Pharaoh had two dreams, one of seven wellfed cows devoured by seven thin cows and the other of seven plump ears of grain swallowed up by seven blighted ears of grain. Then the cupbearer remembered Joseph, who was quickly called before the ruler.

Joseph explained that the two dreams carried one message: “… God has shown to Pharaoh what he is about to do. There will come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt, but after them there will arise seven years of famine…”. (Genesis 41:28-30).

So Pharaoh promoted Joseph to

the second-most powerful position in Egypt, giving him the authority to oversee the years of plenty and famine.

Later, Joseph’s eight treacherous brothers stood before him, after more than a decade of separation. They had traveled there from Israel to buy grain. Soon he tearfully explained to his brothers, “…I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life..” (Genesis 45:4-5).

Not all Bible stories end with success as defined by this world. The missionary Paul often escaped death. However when he arrived in Rome, he knew his end was near. His hope stayed strong. He said, “…the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (I Timothy 4:6-8).

[Brief bio: Mr. Pastor (yes, that is his last name, not his profession) is a Polk County, Oregon resident and graduate of Bethel Theological Seminary in Minnesota (M.Div., M.Th.).]

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

• 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners meeting, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 850 Main St., Dallas

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

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

• 10 a.m. – Four Handed Pinochle, Dallas Area Senior Center

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

• 3 p.m. - Kids Painting Workshop, for ages 6-12, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 4 p.m. - Dallas Teen Advisory Board meeting, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

• 6 p.m. - Open Mic Night, Brew Coffee and Taphouse, 211 S. Main St., Independence

• 6:30 p.m. - Music Jam, Monmouth Senior Center

• 7 p.m. - Monmouth Planning Commission meeting, City Hall, 151 Main St. W.

Thursday, April 18

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

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

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

Heritage Museum hosts exhibit on “radiant rocks”

The Heritage Museum’s latest exhibit “Radiant Rocks: Unveiling the Hidden Glow of Fluorescent Minerals” runs April 18 through May 18. Local rock hound and Clackamette Mineral and Gem Club member Bob Oblack worked with local carpenter and contractor Ken Fetters to bring this exhibit to Independence. The Heritage Museum is located at 281 S. 2nd St. Learn more at www. orheritage.org.

MICC Community Awards return April 18

The Monmouth Independence Chamber of Commerce 59th Annual Community Awards ceremony

“Community of Stars” is 5-7:30 p.m. April 18 at Eola Hills Winery, in Rickreall. Tickets are $45 each or two for $85 and include drink vouchers and appetizers. Purchase tickets at micc-or.org or by calling (503) 838-4268

• 10:30 a.m. - Songs, bounces and rhymes, for ages under 2, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

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

• 11 a.m. - Simple games/ Walking Club, Monmouth Senior Center

• 11:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

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

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

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

• 1 p.m. - Third Thursday Book Club: “The Gown” by Jennifer Robson, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 1 p.m. - Knitting/Needle Craft, Monmouth Senior Center

• 5 p.m. - 59th Annual MICC Community Awards, Eola Hills Winery, tickets $45 each or two for $85, micc-or.org or (503) 838-4268

• 5 p.m. - Friends of the Dallas Public Library Book Sale-Member Pre Sale, Dallas Civic Center. 945 SE Jefferson St.

• 6 p.m. - Parks & Recreation Board meeting, City Hall, 555 South Main St.

• 6:30 p.m. - Monmouth Tree Advisory Board meeting, online only, https://meet.google.com/ emp-ebnf-qgh

Friday, April 19

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

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

• 10 a.m. - Writers Workshop/Drawing For Fun, Monmouth Senior Center

• 10 a.m. - Accessory Dwelling Unit Workshop, Monmouth City Hall, 151 Main St. W.

• 10 a.m. – Six handed Pinochle/Art Workshop/ Listening Ear, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 10:30 a.m. - Baby Sign Time, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 1 p.m. - Tai Chi w/ Cheryl/Bingo, Monmouth Senior Center

• 1 p.m. - Age Cafe, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 3 p.m. - Friends of the Dallas Public Library Book Sale, Dallas Civic Center. 945 SE Jefferson St.

• 5 p.m. - Teen Game Night and Ice Cream Sundaes, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

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

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

Saturday, April 20

• 9 a.m. - Independence Farmers Markets, Riverview Park and

Book club discusses “The Gown” April 18

The Third Thursday Book Club meets April 18 at 1 p.m. at the Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S., to discuss the book “The Gown”, an enthralling historical fiction tale of the creation of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding dress, written by Jennifer Robson, How Money Works free class offered April 18

Holly Williamson and the Polk County Resource Center present the free class How Money Works, 6:30 p.m. April 18 at 1407 Monmouth Highway. Register online at https://midvalleyparenting.org/ courses/view/freehowmoneyworksbudgetingclass.

p.m. the last day. Become a member of the Friends of the Library while at the book sale and get two free books.

CASA offers spring training

April 19

Join CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for children in the new season with the Spring CASA Training, 3-6 p.m. April 19 in the Polk County first floor courthouse conference room, 850 Main St., in Dallas. This is a free eight-week class that will give you the tools and training to become a volunteer CASA advocate. For more information, contact Amber Calef at (503) 623-8473 Apply at www.casaofpolk. com.

Fairgrounds hosts rock, gem show

April 19-21

Umpqua Bank parking

lot. 302 Main St. S.

• 10 a.m. - Friends of the Dallas Public Library Book

Sale, Dallas Civic Center. 945 SE Jefferson St., Bag

Sale 2-3 p.m.

• 6 p.m. - Live Music: NW Transit Band, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

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

• 7:30 p.m. - Pentacle Theatre presents “Ripcord,” 324 52nd Ave. NW, buy tickets at https://pentacletheatre.org

Sunday, April 21

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

• 2 p.m. - Pentacle Theatre presents “Ripcord,” 324 52nd Ave. NW, buy tickets at https://pentacletheatre.org/

Monday, April 22

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

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

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

• 10 a.m. - ASL Class/ Hand & Foot, Monmouth Senior Center

• 1 p.m. - Tai Chi w/ Cheryl, Monmouth Senior Center

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

• 4 p.m. - Dallas Public Safety Committee meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

• 4 p.m. - Dallas Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

• 5 p.m. - Independence Library Board meeting, 175 Monmouth St.

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

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

Tuesday, April 23

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

• 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners Work Session, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 950 Main St., Dallas

• 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, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

• 11 a.m. - Alzheimer’s Support Group, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 11:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

• 12 p.m. - Pinochle/ Ponytail, Monmouth Senior Center

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

Monmouth Senior Center hosts Spring Tea

April 20

Celebrate the new season at the Friends of the Monmouth Senior Center’s annual Spring Tea, April 20 from 1-3 p.m. Celebrate renewal and new beginnings with delicious food, tea, music, and friends. Tickets are $30 at the Monmouth Senior Community Center. Cash/check only please. For questions, contact Angie at (602) 819-1208

IDA hosts new event The Puddle Hopper

April 20

The Independence Downtown Association presents the new event, The Puddle Hopper, on April 20

April 18-20

Friends of Dallas Public Library host book sale

The Friends of the Dallas Public Library host their annual Spring Book Sale 5-7 p.m. April 18, 3-7 p.m. April 19 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 20 at the Dallas Civic Center, 945 SE Jefferson St., in Dallas. A bag sale is from 2-3

The Willamette Agate and Mineral Society’s 67th annual River of Gems rock and gem show is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 19-20 and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 21 at the Polk County Fairgrounds, 520 S. Pacific Highway W., in Rickreall. There will be dealers, demonstrations, speakers, display cases, silent auctions, scholarship auction, a fluorescent exhibit, treasure hunt (for kids 11 and under) and many fun games for the kids. Admission is $5 for adults and youth 17 and under are free.

This day-long event celebrates Oregon’s April weather, downtown fun, and shopping and eating local. The day includes a hunt for the Golden Umbrella, a decorated downtown and a ticketed evening reception. For more information, go to info@downtownindependence.com.

Master Gardeners host tour of Inspiration Garden

April 20

The OSU Extension Services presents Trees for Small Spaces: A tour of Inspiration Gardens with Polk County Master Gardeners on April 20 at 10 a.m. Rain or shine, this free drop-in event is on mixed paved and packed gravel surface. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Gathering Space at Inspiration Garden at Mt. Fir Park, 799 F. St., in Independence. For

more information, go to https://beav.es/ciK.

Salem Philharmonia Orchestra performs

April 20-21

The Salem Philharmonia Orchestra, featuring musicians from Polk and Marion counties, presents “Brahms’ 1st Symphony” April 20 and 21. Directed by SPO Artistic Director Jonathan DeBruyn and featuring guest cello soloist Jason Duckles, the concerts begin with George Butterworth’s “Two English Idylls” followed by Antonín Dvořák’s “Cello Concerto in B Minor” featuring Mr. Duckles. The concert finale is Johannes Brahm’s glorious Symphony No. 1. The April 20 concert begins at 7 p.m. and the April 21 concert is at 3 p.m.

DeBruyn’s preconcert talks begin 45 minutes before each concert. Salem Phil’s venue is the East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave. NE.

Admission is $20 for adults ages 18-64, $18 for students ages 18-64 and seniors ages 65 and up, and free for children/youth under age 17

Tickets may be purchased online at www.salemphil.org/ buy-tickets, or at the door on concert day. Go to information@salemphil.org with questions.

Ribbon cutting for new Monmouth City Hall is April 25

The city of Monmouth welcomes the community to an evening of celebration of the new city hall with a ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. April 25 with tours to follow until 7 p.m. The new city hall is located at 151 Main St. W.

Registration open for Kids Inc. Soccer Camp Spring Soccer Camp registration is here for Kids Inc. of Dallas. Registration will be capped at 60 youth and either close when the cap is reached or on April 26. The camp fee is $60. The four week Spring Soccer Camp is May 13 through June 3, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Roger Jordan Park near the Dallas Aquatic Park. Kindergarteners through second graders meet on Mondays and third through fifth graders meet on Wednesdays. For more information, contact the Kids Inc. office at (503) 6236419 or kidsincoffice@gmail. com.

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

• 6 p.m. - Belly Dancing for Fun & Fitness, Monmouth Senior Center

• 6 p.m. - Monmouth Historic Commission meeting, Monmouth Power & Light, 780 Ecols St. S.

• 6:30 p.m.Independence City Council meeting, City Hall, 555 South Main St.

• 7:30 p.m. - Basics of Social Dance, Monmouth Senior Center

Wednesday, April 24

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

• 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners meeting, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 850 Main St., Dallas

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

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

• 10 a.m. – Four Handed Pinochle, Dallas Area Senior Center

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

• 6 p.m. - History & Mystery in Monmouth and Independence Ghost Walk combined event planning meeting, Gilgamesh, 370 S Main St, Independence

• 6:30 p.m. - Music Jam, Monmouth Senior Center

• 1 p.m. - Senior Advisory Board meeting, Monmouth Senior Center, 180 S Warren St.

Dennis Boyd Newton

Nov. 10, 1941 - April 3, 2024

Dennis Boyd Newton (Denny) passed away at home in Dallas, Oregon on Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Born on Nov. 10 1941 he was raised in Powers and Eugene, Oregon. He was the son of Bill and Velma Newton and brother to David Newton. His father was a railroad engineer and his mother a homemaker. He was the first in his family to attend college, where he enrolled at OCE (now known as Western Oregon University). It was at OCE where he forged lifelong friendships including his teammates from the OCE basketball team. It is also where he met his future wife Patty.

After graduation, he pursued a career in education, becoming a beloved high school teacher and principal. He took his first teaching job at John Muir Junior High in Los Angeles. He returned to the Pacific Northwest where he taught in Florence, Nestucca and finally settled in Dallas, Oregon, where he taught and later was an administrator at PhoenixTalent High School, North Salem High School, Dallas High School and LaCreole Middle School. His impact extended beyond the classroom as he coached basketball and cross country. Denny loved connecting with his former students, players and friends.

In 1965 he married his wife Patty and they raised their three children, Kirsten, Bill and Amy.

Dad had many interests and passions and supported numerous causes throughout his life. He loved sports, and coaching young people. He particularly enjoyed rooting for his Oregon Ducks as well as all the universities attended by his grandchildren. He loved nature and the outdoors, had a love of history and traveled extensively. He was a lifelong learner and continued to read and learn about social causes and world events.

However his biggest treasure was his family. He took immense pride in his role as a husband, father and grandfather. He loved us unconditionally, never neglected to tell us how proud he was and how much he loved us. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, kindness, and perseverance. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Denny is survived by his wife Patty of 58 years; their children Kirsten Mullins (Kelly) of Seattle, Bill Newton (Celia) of Hood River and Amy Newton-

Clemens “Clem”

Starck

Nov. 30, 1937 – Mar. 21, 2024

Clemens “Clem” Starck died at his home outside Dallas, Oregon, on March 21, 2024, due to complications from mesothelioma.

Starck was born in Rochester, New York, Nov. 30, 1937. An accomplished poet and dedicated autodidact scholar, Starck dropped out of Princeton in 1958 and continued his education on the road, riding freight trains and working at a variety of jobs.

Regarding his poetry, The New York Times wrote, “Clemens Starck is an essential plain-spoken poet of work,” and Starck had many jobs from which to draw inspiration: ranch hand in eastern Oregon, a newspaper reporter on Wall Street, a door-to-door salesman, and a merchant seaman. For over 20 years he worked construction up and down the West Coast, as a union carpenter on projects of all kinds, from bridge work in San Francisco and Oregon to custom homes in British Columbia. As a longtime maintenance carpenter at Oregon State University in Corvallis, he was known for his skill at repairing windows and doors.

Starck was a dynamic presenter of his poetry, giving readings to diverse audiences throughout the Western United States and in Europe. His first book, “Journeyman’s Wages” (Story Line Press,1995), published when he was 58, received the Oregon Book Award for Poetry and the William Stafford Memorial Poetry Award from the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association. He is also credited with being the inspiration for the founding of the annual FisherPoets Gathering in Astoria, Oregon. A lifelong lover of languages, he began intensive study of Russian in his early 60s. He traveled to the collapsed Soviet Union twice, serving as the chaperone for Willamette University exchange students. These travels served as inspiration for his second book, “Studying Russian on Company Time” (Silverfish Review Press, 1999). He went on to publish four more books of poetry, all of which were gathered in “Cathedrals & Parking Lots: Collected Poems,” published in 2019 by Empty Bowl Press. His poems have been widely anthologized and appeared in the syndicated column “American Life in Poetry.” Garrison Keillor read several of Starck’s poems on National Public Radio. In his final weeks, Starck

of friends and family traveling from around the Northwest to pay their respects. He worked to complete a final manuscript of poems, “Enjoying the Evening: Last Poems,” sent it off to his publisher, and lived to receive the first copy, which gave him enormous satisfaction. He was lucid and in good humor to the end, his remarkable life culminating in a good death.

He is survived by his children Rachel Starck (spouse Gregory Smith) and Daniel Starck, Deborah Pruitt; grandchildren Amanda Pruitt, Benjamin Pruitt, Alexander Smith and Zoe Smith; sister Juanita Rodriquez; sisters-inlaw Ginger Starck and Jan Glenn, brother-in-law Tom Juster; nephews Edilberto Rodriguez and David Juster; and nieces Maria Rodriguez, Marguerite Rodriguez and Juanita A Rodriguez. He was pre-deceased by his wife Barbara Starck (2012), brother David Starck (2023), brother-in-law Edilberto Rodriquez Sr (1987), nephew Michael Glenn (2022), and son-in-law Jade Pruitt (2022).

A memorial gathering for Clem Starck will be held in Corvallis on Saturday, May 25, 3-5 p.m. at the Rotary Shelter in Willamette Park. Friends are invited to come and share Clem’s poems and stories about his life.

Lois McFeters

Nov. 10, 1938 - March 29, 2024

Lois McFeters died on Friday, March 29, 2024, in Kirkland, Washington, at the age of 85

Lois is survived by her son Michael (Diana); two grandsons, Nicholas and Nathan; sister Mary (Phil) Erickson of Apache Junction, Arizona, her brother Ronald (Patricia) Dow of North San Juan, California; brother Russell (Sheri) Dow of Canyonville, Oregon; brother Richard Dow of Prescott Valley, Arizona; brother Randall Dow of Dallas, Oregon; brother Robert (Raechel) Dow of Dallas, Oregon; and sister Virginia (Charles) Cavalli of Rarity Bay, Tennessee. She is preceded in death by her son Kelvin, husband Gordon, and first husband Duane (d. 1960).

Lois was born on Nov. 10 1938, in Los Angeles, California, to Earl and Wanda Dow. She earned a bachelor of nursing degree from Loma Linda University. She married Dr. Gordon Alwin McFeters, a microbiologist, on June 3, 1963

An outdoor enthusiast, Lois enjoyed backpacking, camping and skiing. Lois was gifted at gardening, knitting, sewing, quilting, cross stitch

Robert Lee Roy

Bob went home to the arms of his Savior on July 29 2023. He lived a blessed life, which he told all those close to him and credited to God, having given Bob his precious wife Beverly, two daughters, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Bob was born in Montrose, Colorado, to Roland and Shirley Roy. Bob joined the Navy ROTC in high school; he transferred to the Army and retired in 1996 as a CW4, having served in the Vietnam and the Persian Gulf Wars.

Bob graduated from Duke University and was the first Physician Assistant Certified in Oregon, working in Dallas and serving the community with Drs. Charles and Casey for many years. Bob and Beverly moved to Grand Junction, CO, and later retired in Vacaville, California, having motor-homed for 13 years before making their home in Vail, Arizona.

Bob is missed by several family members, including his sister, Beverlee Stalnaker, but we know God said as he was taken to meet him, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.” Eph. 3:17

James Donald Griffin

Feb. 2, 1933 – March 12, 2024

Resident of Santa Cruz, California, and Falls City, Oregon

James passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the age of 91 after a prolonged diagnosis of sepsis. He died peacefully with his family at his home in Falls City, Oregon. He was treated under hospice care at home for several months before his passing.

James was a Korean War Army veteran that served in the war from March 17 1952 through Jan. 22, 1954

He is survived by his daughter Debra; sons Ron and Bob; his partner, Betty Burns and her family; along with many grandchildren and close friends in Oregon and California. A private service will be held to Celebrate his Life.

“The Will of God won’t take us where the Grace of God won’t keep us.”

Susan Ann Spain

June 11, 1950 - Dec. 27, 2023

Susan Ann Spain, 73, of Bend and Dallas, Oregon, gained her angel wings on Dec. 27 2023. Born on June 11, 1950, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was the cherished daughter of Charles and Lily Goodwin.

Susan’s life was a testament to love and family. Raised on a farm in Scappoose, Oregon, alongside her siblings Diane, Michelle, and Ted, she embraced the values of hard work and compassion. She met her husband, Arley Spain Jr., at OSU and their union was blessed with children, Angela and Ryan. During Susan’s 30 years in education, she touched countless lives in the Dallas School District, leaving a lasting legacy of knowledge and kindness.

Susan enjoyed quilting, gardening, cooking, and camping, but her greatest joy came from time with her family and friends. She was especially proud of being a “Grammy” to her grandchildren, Aubrey, Tanner, Emily, and Mason.

Susan joins her parents, brother, and husband in heaven. Though she is deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 19 2024 from 12-2 p.m. at the Walterville Grange, 19259 Camp Creek Road, Springfield, Oregon. All are welcome.

Mike

On April 1 2024, the universe lost a beacon of light. Mike Eugene Neufeldt, age 70, passed away at home peacefully after a short illness. He was a beloved and wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was born in Athens, Georgia on Jan. 29 1954. His family moved to California then to Tucson, Arizona, where he grew up for most of his childhood and adulthood.

daughter Alyssa Anne Neufeldt and his two grandsons Michael Nevin Neufeldt and Maddux Aiden Neufeldt. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Bob Fullarton and his wife Barb Fullarton; nephews David and Rick; his other brother-in-law Alex Fullarton and his wife Sue Fullarton and nephew Neil. Our good neighbors and friends who knew Mike and cared for him deeply are Bill and Mille Scharlau and Janis Gaddis. He also kept in touch with a good friend Mike O’Neil whom he worked with as a registered nurse for a while in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he lived with his wife Gert for approximately five years, and where she was born.

He was a Boy Scout and was also an Eagle Scout. His father was one of his Scout masters, so they were able to spend a lot of time together hiking and camping and other wilderness experiences. He was in the US Army from 1973-1976 most of the time was spent in Germany as a tank and large equipment mechanic.

After moving back to Tucson, he graduated from nursing school and worked as a registered nurse for many years. His other interests included gardening, astronomy, taking his two dogs for walks every day, and reading, which also included his lifelong love of comic books. Without a doubt though, baseball was his biggest passion. He had a great appreciation for heroes such as Willie Mays and comic book heroes such as the Silver Surfer.

Despite his hearing impairments, with the use of newly developed hearing aids, he was able to listen to his Sirius radio which was always tuned in to a baseball game whenever possible. You could hear the games constantly playing on the radio in his back yard as he worked on his landscaping and garden plants. He has a very large collection of both comic books and baseball cards which his oldest grandson Michael will inherit and be able to enjoy.

Every summer Mike grew large quantities of fruits and vegetables, most of which were given to neighbors and our local food bank. At night when he was lucky enough to have a clear sky in Oregon, he would take out his large Odyssey 8 telescope and gaze at the night sky. When it came to his philosophy of life, Mike believed in the basic teachings of the Buddhist religion and beliefs. One of his favorite sayings was “You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.”

Having been a lifelong lover of science and medicine, Mike requested that his body be donated to science. It was given to the “Oregon Body Gift” a non-profit organization located in Salem, Oregon.

If you would like to honor Mike’s memory, please donate to one of his favorite charities which was PETA. Mike, we will miss you dearly. Final prayer: “Press him in my name and kiss his fine head for me and ask him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.” St. Joseph, patron of departing souls pray for us Amen.

He was preceded in death by his mother Josephine Tipton-Neufeldt and Retired Naval Cmdr. Roy Eugene Neufeldt and his sister-in-law, Ina Fullarton-Chapman and many aunts, uncles and cousins, nieces and nephews. He stayed in touch with his cousins Donnie, Doris and Terri Drachenberg and Lisa Carroll.

He is survived by his beloved wife Gertrude Fullarton-Neufeldt; his

Eugene Neufeldt

Lauris “Mac”

Feb. 26, 1949 – Apr. 5, 2024

was born on Feb. 26 1949, in Woodburn, Oregon, to Luetta and Claude McMillan. He passed peacefully on Friday April 5, 2024, at the age of 75 in Salem, Oregon. He served in the US Army from 1968-1974. After his service, Mac returned home and worked for International Paper, GNB Batteries and Exide. Hobbies included classic cars, drag racing, hunting and riding in the Oregon dunes.

Survivors include ex-wife Sherrie Baker; children

Kimberly McMillan-Weis and Todd McMillan; grandchildren Trenton McMillan, Skylar Weis, Sawyer Weis, Raelynn McMillan, Shelby Weis and Shylow Terrell. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Clyde and Lonny McMillan.

Billie Gibson

Billie passed on Jan. 25 in Lake Mary, Florida. She leaves behind three sons, Ted Gibson (Patty Gibson) of

LaPine, Oregon, John Gibson (Kristen Gibson) of Spokane, Washington, and Jerry Gibson (Gwen Gibson) of Longwood, Florida; and one daughter Bette McKibben (David McKibben ) of Dubious, Wyoming. Her daughter

Sharon Gibson Carver preceded her in death.

Billie was a professional woman with careers in credit and collections, real estate appraisal, Oregon Department of Revenue, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

After retirement she volunteered her time with the Assembly of God missions department as a computer specialist and traveled to Alaska and Nigeria writing computer software programs to fit their needs. She also worked with Global University in Texas and Springfield, Missouri, as computer tech support and trained those who were new to computers. She fulfilled a lifelong dream and got her degree in computer science at the age of 80

Billie loved her family and loved giving of her time to help others.

A memorial service will be held at the Dallas Event Center, 939 Main St., Dallas, Oregon, at 4 p.m. on April 19, 2024. Please join us as we celebrate her life.

St. Thomas Episcopal Church — Welcome! Our church is located at 1486 SW Levens St., Dallas. Our Web site is: stthomasdallasor.org. or look us up on Facebook.

Everyone is welcome to come and be a part of our congregation on Sundays for the 10:00AM service or find us live on Facebook.

Our services for the next 2 weeks:

April 21 - Morning Prayer

April 28 - Fr. Tony Petrotta

May God Bless you and your families this Month of April

classes for all ages at 9:15am, Morning Worship at 9:00am-10:30am., (Nursery provided for self-serve use during those times); Tuesdays: Youth Night 7:00pm in Ediger Hall and All church Prayer 7pm in Sanctuary; Wednesdays: Adult Prayer Meeting 1:00pm. Call for info on other ministries. Web: dallasalliance.org

Dallas Church — PO Box 462, Dallas, OR 97338, 503-623-2711. Worship Gatherings: Sundays 9am & 10:30am. Meeting at 450 SE Washington St., Dallas OR 97338. Atmosphere is relaxed, families and children welcome, come as you are, current music & relevant teaching about Jesus. Pastor: Ben Bauman. www. dallaschurch.org

Dallas Church of Christ — 691 NE Kings Valley Hwy, Dallas, 503-623-8791. Sundays: 9:30am Bible Classes for all, 10:30am Worship, 2:00pm Group Bible Talk, Wednesdays: 6:30pm Bible Study. Come to any, come to them all! Individual Bible studies gladly made by appointment. Web:dallaschurchofchrist.com.

Dallas Evangelical Church — A Place of Hope and Healing: 783 SW Church Street, Dallas Oregon, across from the Post Office. Find us on Facebook: on page DallasEC, MyDallasEC Friends and www.dallasec.org. Join us on Sundays in person or on Zoom for weekly Bible Study and Worship Service. We worship in a contemporary, casual format. Sunday Services: Bible Study 9:00 AM; Worship Service 10:00 AM, zoom room 228-034-850. Celebrate Recovery (a Christ Based 12 Step Program) is also on Sundays and starts with Dinner 5:00 PM; Large Group (Worship) 6:00 PM, and small groups at 7PM. We have a Community Clothing Closet: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, & Sat 9 AM - Noon; Thurs Nights 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Step Studies are often starting or ending all year and meeting at various times. Message phone 503-6233778. Find us on Facebook: DallasEC or join MyDallasEC Friends. You can email pastor Dave at pastor.dave@dallasec.org

Dallas Foursquare Church Located at 976 SW Hayter St., on the corner of Washington and Hayter. Senior Pastor: Darrin Hausler. Worship Gatherings: Sundays at 10:00 a.m., Youth Home Groups: Sunday evenings from 6-8:00 p.m. Please call for locations. We are a multi-generational church with a heart for our community. Our mission is to Love God and Love People to Extend His Kingdom. For more info call us at 503-623-8277 or visit us online at dallasfour.com.

Evangelical Bible Church — 1175 S.E. Howe St., Dallas 503-623-2331. Senior Pastor Troy Bassham, Youth Pastor Andrew Wheeler, Administrative Pastor Mike Fast. Sunday services 9:00am & 10:30am. Awana 6:30pm Wednesday. Weekly Prayer meeting 6:30pm Wednesday. Women’s Bible Study Thursday 9:30 am & 6:30 pm. Men’s Bible Study Thursday 6:30pm. Compass Middle School Youth Group Thursday 6:30pm. Forged High School Youth Group Tuesday 6:30pm. Live Streamed services via facebook and youtube @EBCDallas.

Grace Community Church — 598 E. Ellendale Ave. Dallas, 503-623-4961. Lead Pastor- Dave Bertolini, Sunday Worship Gatherings 9:00am, with Nursery-5th Grade programs, Youth Life Groups, and scheduled Sunday School Classes running concurrently & 10:45am, with Nursery-5th Grade programs, and scheduled Sunday School Classes, running concurrently.

Live Stream our 10:45am service at www.graceindallas.online.church

Visit our Website at www.graceindallas.org for office hours, sermon downloads, event information, and more!

House of His Presence — House of His Presence, located at 177 SW Oak St. in Dallas, welcomes all who are seeking to know God intimately and live life abundantly. We believe God transforms us into the image of Jesus Christ as we encounter His Holiness, Righteousness and Truth through His manifested presence, worship and the Word of God. Sunday morning service at 10:30 am, visit the website for ongoing ministries during the week. For more information call 503-420-4612 Website www. houseofhispresence.net

Living Word Faith Fellowship — 830 SE Shelton Street, Dallas, 503-623-9062. Pastor Ray Huff. Sunday Prayer 9:30am, Worship 10:00am, Children’s Church (during service, nursery provided). Wednesday Prayer 6:30pm, Worship 7:00pm. Men’s fellowship second Saturday, Pastor Ray Huff is in charge of men’s fellowship. Call for info 503-623-9062.

Salt Creek Baptist Church — 15075 Salt Creek Rd, Dallas, 503-623-2976. Lead Pastor David Curtis, Family Pastor Josiah Buhler. Sunday School 9:30am. Sunday morning Worship Gathering 10:50am. Nursery provided for worship services. Classes for all ages. Wednesday Middle and High School youth at 6:30pm. Please call for information about other meetings or visit our website at www.saltcreekchurch.org.

Seventh-Day Adventist Church — 589 SW Birch St PO Box 450 Dallas, Or 97338 503-623-5872 Pastor Les Jones, Services on Saturday: Sabbath School 9:30 am, Worship Service 11 am Study and Prayer Wednesday 7pm Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9am to noon Community Services for food and clothing Wednesday 10am to 1pm.

St. Philip Catholic Church — Fr. Michael P. Johnston, Pastor Pastor Email: mpjinpdx@yahoo.com | 825 S.W. Mill Street, Dallas, OR 97338 Phone: (503) 623.2440 - www.stphilorg.org.

Liturgical Schedule

Monday- Wednesday - 5:30 p.m. Mass Thursday - 8:00 a.m. ( No Mass on Friday)

Saturday Vigil Mass - 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Masses - 8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

Coffee and Donuts will be served after Sunday services

Trinity Lutheran Church — 320 SE Fir Villa Rd, Dallas. All are welcome! Adult Bible Study 8:45am Sundays, Worship Service 10:00am, coffee hour with treats after service. Nursery available for parents to use. Play area for small children in sanctuary during worship service. Youth Group HS/MS 11:30am Sundays. Bible Study Wednesdays 1:00pm. Contact us at 503-623-2233 or at questionsdallastlc@gmail. com. Online at, dallastlc.org and streamed on Youtube @trinitylutheranchurch6821. Check it out! Office open M-F 10:00am-2:00pm.

Because God first loved us, we celebrate the gifts of Christ through worship, service, and community.

United Methodist Church — a church with Open Hearts, Open Minds & Open Doors, 565 SE LaCreole Dr, Dallas, 503-623-2481. Pastor Rev. Ruth Marsh. Inperson Sunday morning worship at 10 a.m. Go to the website at: umcdallas.wixsite. com/dallas-umc for additional information.

Valley Life Center (Assemblies of God) — 1795 SE Miller Ave., Dallas. Lead Pastor: Chris Barker; Youth: Jeff Anderson; Children: Crystal Barker; Worship/Media: Jesse Ceballos. Sunday Service is at 10:00 am and online streaming at 10:00 am (www. valleylife.love.) On Wednesdays at 6:30 pm, there is Men’s Bible Study, Ladies Bible Study, Ignite Youth, Rangers Boys Club, Mpact Girls Club, Rainbows, and nursery care. For more information, contact us at www.vallelylife.love, info@valleylifecenter. com or 503-623-4116.

FALLS CITY

Seventh-Day Adventist Church — 205 N. Main, Falls City 97344, 503-7873907. Services on Saturday: Sabbath School 10:00am; Worship Service 11:10am. Community Service Center Food Bank: Second Wednesday, 11am-3pm, Fourth Sunday, 11am-3pm.

INDEPENDENCE

Christ The King Church — Service on Sundays10 am 155 C St, Independence OR 97351 . 503-551-9516 or visit us at www.ctkindependence.com.

Cornerstone Church of God — 4395 Independence Hwy, Independence, 503838-5119. Sunday Service and Children’s Church 9:30am Nursery available. Wednesday Kids Klubs 6:30pm. Thursday Adult Bible Study 6:30pm

First Baptist Church — A warm friendly church that cares about you! Located at 1505 Monmouth St., Independence (across from Central High School); 503-8381001. Senior Pastor Michael Parks. Sundays: Worship Service 11am Wednesdays: AWANA 7pm (during the school year). Thursdays: Youth Group 6:15pm. Join us for small groups and life groups throughout the week. First Baptist Church has ministries for children, youth, adults, families and seniors, throughout the week. Check us out at www.independencefirstbaptist.com St. Patrick Parish, Catholic — 1275 E. St., Independence, 503-838-1242. Father Francisco Bringuela. Saturday Masses: 5pm English Vigil & 7pm Spanish. Sunday Masses: 9am English & 11:30am Spanish. Daily Masses: Monday 9:30am Communion Service. 9am Tuesday and Thursday Spanish, Wednesday and Friday English. Sacrament of Reconciliation: Saturday 3:30pm - 4:30pm or by appointment. Faith Formation: Monday 6:45pm -8:15pm Middle & High School. Tue: 6:45pm8:15pm. Grades 1-4. Youth Group Thur. 6:30pm. WOU Campus Ministry: Mass Sunday 5pm at 315 Knox St., Monmouth. Tuesday 7pm Fellowship.

MONMOUTH

Christ’s Church Methodist & Presbyterian United — Come care and share with us. 412 Clay St. W, Monmouth, 503-838-1724. Pastor Steve Mitchell. Worship Service 11:15am Call for information on small groups.

Cultivate Community Church — We exist to cultivate a community of people who love Jesus, each other, and our cities, joining God in the renewal of all things. We meet at 655 S. Pacific Hwy (Hwy 99), Monmouth. Just south of Bi-Mart. Our Sunday service is at 10:00am. Celebrate Recovery meets Tuesdays at 7pm. Missional Community groups meet in homes throughout the week. Call the church at 503838-1369. Come join us! Monmouth Christian Church — 969 Church St W, Monmouth 97361. Office hours M-T 9a-4p. Phone: 503-838-1145. Join us for services on Sundays, 9am & 11am. Live ONLINE Service 11am. Please visit our website for more

Lauris McMillan

McMillan

book to our property taxes. At the same time, I understand our cities are really challenged, trying to get the infrastructure we need to build new houses and attract more industries. They’re not getting the funding required. But I don’t think the answer is more taxes. The answer is restructuring how the taxes are dispersed. Road taxes are dispersed by 50% state, 30% county and 20% city. So cities don’t have the money to build road, streets and infrastructure. For us to attract industries and housing, we need that infrastructure.

At this time, I never support a repeal. But I’m open seeing something we’d all support, maybe a sales tax and eliminate the income tax. Beltz – Measures 5 and 50 have had an enormous impact on the ability of cities and local governments to meet the basic service needs of their citizens. So, from conversations that I’ve had, a full repeal is very unlikely. But I do support amending it for better equity. So, while I’m still learning at this point about it, amending it would remedy a lot of the problems that based here in equity, neighborhood to neighborhood in equity, and existing versus new construction in equity. So all that to say, I would only support a repeal or amendment if it were replaced with a more equitable solution.

With cities and counties across Oregon creating

climate change initiatives, what role do you believe the county has in addressing climate change?

Beltz – Obviously climate change is a huge environmental concern that we all should have. And one of the things that I know is that the county does not currently have a climate change plan. That definitely concerns me. That is one of the things I would implement probably in my first 120 days. I’ve had conversations with people who are experts in this. I realized we should be pulling people in that have expertise in these environmental issues. We need to have a plan, we need to execute that plan and we need to have individuals who have expertise in that, so that we can address these concerns.

Mordhorst – When it comes to environmental concerns, I don’t believe we should have cars sitting in traffic idling, waiting for traffic to disperse. We should have transportation that is sufficient to handle the amount of traffic we have in our areas. We need to be able to get from point A to point B in an efficient matter of time.

Polk County was one of the very first to implement alternative power resource support for solar and wind to industries, rural areas households. We work with those providers, wineries have done a ton of solar, helping them build an alternative source and keeping it green. I believe the environmental environment is something we need to address, but with common sense so not to eliminate what we have until we have adequate replacement for that power source.

As Polk County continues to attract more residents, what do you believe the county’s role should be in

When there’s heavy lifting to do, we’ll share the load.

addressing the rising cost of housing?

Mordhorst – We probably have one of most efficient planning departments in the state. They work so hard in finding ways to get the answer you need as a homeowner to build a developer to put a housing system in, industrial investments. Keeping those permitting costs low. Polk County we make sure to keep those costs down to a minimum and we turn them over quickly. Another thing is zoning issues. From farm to fur, from industrial to housing, there’s many nuances to that. Polk County works with cities to make sure we can help them get through zoning issues. It’s really working together as a team, keeping those costs down, and those turnarounds quick.

Beltz – If there was an easy answer, somebody would have come up with it by now. However, there are steps the county could take that would be really helpful. Like using a smart growth approach to housing, balancing a compact development, filling transit-oriented development.

Another part would be finding long-term funding for the infrastructure and the growth especially for the more rural parts of our county. We really have to figure out how to plan now for infrastructure we need for the housing we’re going to have to have in 2050. We’ve got to be smart about this. We need to be proactive, we need to learn from what other cities and counties are doing, We need to seek every funding opportunity that we can. And get the smartest people in the room, so that we can put some plans in place for this.

What are the two most pressing issues facing the citizens of Polk County and

how can you as a commissioner address them?

Beltz – Houselessness and housing availability are two huge issues that we’re dealing with right now. I want to applaud the work the MidWillamette Valley Homeless Aliance has been doing. I continue to support their goals in preventing houselessness and swiftly rehousing homeless individuals. I also support the work being done by the Mid Willamette Valley Community Action Agency and their Youth Services. They just opened David’s House, that’s the new first of its kind transitional home in Monmouth for vulnerable youth. I would educate myself on these issues, observer other people working on these issues. On the micro level, my family has come together to provide this solution (building a backyard accessory dwelling unit). On a macro level, the county and community have to come together for the work that is being done by the homeless alliance and the organizations like them.

Mordhorst – It’s number one in my mind – public safety and homeless. They run together. I’m very proud Polk County has the family Community Outreach and prevent homeless program. We kept hundreds of people in their houses last year and 700 people, 100 families, from becoming homeless. At the same time, we saw a lot of pressure get put on our local businesses and retailers from migrants coming in stealing, shoplifting, causing damage to buildings. I met with the sheriff, the DA, judges, police forces, and asked how can we address this? Polk County does not endorse cite and release. When you make a bad decision, you’re going to pay for it, you’re going to go to jail.

And also teaming up with Behavioral Health and Community Corrections, making sure those substance abuse and addiction counselors are there so when people say I need help, we can provide that to them and not just lock them up in jail, but offer alternative choices.

If elected, what would be your top three priorities?

Secondly, I’d advocate for a communication professional position in the county, responsible for media relations, community outreach and content creation.

One other area that needs work is organizational efficiency. I want to work with staff to find areas to streamline processes use current technology to save staff time and that would also provide a much more user friendly process for the community.

Mordhorst – Number one, transportation. I’m the transportation guy. I’m proud of that. When I came into Polk County, we had one project underway at 99 and Bethel. Everything else was shelved. I met with ODOT asking what it would take to get these projects back into working mode, get them designed and built? I’m not for or against the roundabout, but if ODOT says that’s what is needed, let’s get it built. Now we (also) have the Kings Valley Highway/223 intersection designed and fully funded and will be built in 2027-28. Perrydale Road we rerouted to that intersection is funded through design. I need to raise money for that construction area. I also want to continue to expand broadband and build public safety and working with the sheriff and localities to make sure they have funding. Beltz – Of the things that need to be addressed, the first is transportation. Transportation planning and equity of service availability. Transportation is moving all people who are eligible for services who don’t receive them. I’d establish a transportation commission. This is a no cost example where we can bring together stakeholders ... that would work not only to guide county planning of all forms of transportation, but they’d also be empowered to seek state and federal funding for the regional transportational service.

At Salem health, we know healing is hard work. Whether your road to feeling better is short or long, smooth or winding, we take pride in being a shoulder you can lean on every step of the way.

That’s care with respect.

PHOTOS BY DAVID HAYES Polk County Commissioner Seat 1 candidates Roxanne Beltz (left) and incumbent Lyle Mordhorst talk about top issues at a Q&A session April 11 at the Polk County Fairgrounds.

April 17

• Silverton @ Central, 5:30 p.m.

• Crescent Valley @ Dallas, 5 p.m.

April 19

• Central @ West Albany, 5 p.m.

• McKay @ DHS, 5 p.m.

April 22

• West Albany @ Central, 5 p.m.

• Dallas @ at McKay, 4:30 p.m. Softball

April 17

• Central/Falls City @ Crescent Valley, 5 p.m.

• Woodburn @ Dallas, 4:30 p.m.

April 19

• McKay @ Central/ Falls City, 4:30 p.m.

• Dallas @ Lebanon, 5 p.m.

April 22

• Central/Falls City @ Dallas, 4:30 p.m.

Tack & Field

April 17

• Falls City @ Cascade, 4 p.m.

April 19

• CHS hosts John Oliver Invitational, 2:30 p.m.

• Dallas at Oregon Relays, Hayward Field, TBD

April 20

• Falls City @ Meet of Champions, Sweet Home High School, 10 a.m.

Rebuilding love of the game is first goal in Dragons girls’ tennis

By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer

After three years helming Dallas High School’s girls tennis program, head coach Stephanie Green is forced to adjust her expectations differently than her contemporaries at more successful schools. Green said this year’s squad is the smallest at 17 since the COVID pandemic hit. And what potential they had last year was hampered by injuries.

“Last year was not the best year,” Green concedes. “It was a tough year.”

Putting her program further behind is the competitive edge the other schools have with year-round playing opportunity.

“Recognizing we have tough competition from Corvallis, Crescent Valley, West Albany, even down there in South Albany, they all have tennis clubs. That allows them to potentially play year-round. We don’t. So, we’re at the disadvantage,” Green said.

So, while teams like Crescent Valley set goals of how many they’re going to cede at districts or send to state, Green sets individual objectives to measure their level of improvement throughout the season.

“This year, my purpose and goal as coach is to give the girls a positive experience, make sure they progress, and are happy whether they win or lose,” Green said. “And by the results of the last few matches, I’m pleased that has been case.”

After experiencing success in high school herself in the sport regularly reaching regional finals in California, instead of continuing to compete at the collegiate level, Green chose to minor in coaching.

“I knew I wanted to coach tennis,” she said.

After her own burgeoning family moved to Dallas, with her own freshman daughter enrolled at DHS, when longtime Dragons’ coach Mary Christenson stepped down, Green jumped at the chance to fill the void.

But then COVID hit, limiting turnout for years to come. Green said two years ago, the Dragons had 20 on the team. Numbers spiked to 24 last year, but dropped back down to 17 this season. She said with a team with such low numbers, there are two approaches to take.

“My first year we were all together at practice. But last year, with 24, we separated into separate JV and varsity practice times, separating the new and more advanced players,” Green said. “This year they’re all back together. I feel like that environment is helping each other to play as one team. They’ve enjoyed that.”

This spring, rain or shine, Green has the girls working out together, be it in the weight room, or on the court outdoors or in the gym on rainy days. She wants them to have a positive, fun experience, to enjoy playing the sport, win or lose.

In the meantime, she has them set personal goals to focus on a specific aspect of the sport to improve upon during matches.

“We’ve focused a lot on working on individual strokes - forehand, backhand serve, conditioning get to ball to do strokes they’re learning,” Green said. “A ball machine was donated to the program, so we’ve been using that to work on muscle memory, hitting correct strokes.

“One of the biggest things, honestly, tennis is mental,” Green added. “Having a positive mental outlook has been a focus the last couple weeks. It’s important with how well they play.”

After playing against a gauntlet of the league’s

tougher schools the past couple weeks, at the midpoint in the season, Green is seeing potential emerge.

“Our No. 1 doubles team of Haddie Rogers and Emma Blake has a good chance of doing well at districts,” Green said. “Our No. 1 singles, Merle Nuber, an exchange student from Germany who has been playing for six years, she’s been a really good asset to the team. And Jessyca Hamm just started this season. But she jumped into varsity. Her confidence is great, her commitment and consistency at practice are great.”

After this year’s crop of three seniors graduate, Green hopes a core group of eight sophomores will be with the program for years to come. In

addition, she hopes to build the sport at even younger levels, growing the popularity of tennis for the next generation. USTA has donated funds the last two years for a local summer tennis camp. Green said the city of Dallas has stepped up to offer it this year to continue to expose kids at a younger age to the sport.

Regardless the win-loss record, Green’s enjoying her role as mentor.

“When you’re working closely with and seeing the girls every day, you just enjoy being around them,” Green said. “I have three high schoolers, and all the players are friends with my girls. So, I enjoy tennis and it’s win-win to get to teach something I love.”

WOU women’s make history, qualify for nationals

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

Western Oregon’s wom-

en’s+ rugby 7s team added two new entries to the university’s book on sports history. The Wolves not only played in their first qualifying tournament, they won said tournament to advance to their first berth at that National Collegiate Rugby Championship in Boyds, Maryland.

“Our program has been around for 24 years, and this is the first time that our 7s team has even played in a qualifier,” said WOU coach Nic Smith. “So to win that tournament and secure a spot at nationals is monumental for our club.”

Not that there was any question amongst the Wolves

themselves that they were up to the task.

“You don’t go to a qualifier with the intention of losing.

We knew that all the teams had the same goal in mind, but that only one team was going to take the win, and we knew it was going to be us.

It had to be us,” Smith said. “We’ve worked so hard and dedicated so much time and energy into this. We had to believe that we were the team taking home the trophy.”

Willamette University, College of Idaho and University of Idaho joined WOU at the qualifier, aka, the Fool’s Gold Rugby 7’s Tournament, held earlier this month at Boise State University. WOU won

See RUGBY, page B8

PHOTO BY SMY PHOTOGRAPHY Emma Blake, a member of the Dragon’s No. 1 doubles with Haddie Rogers, eyes a shot to return in their match against Crescent Valley last week

WOU ATHLETICS PHOTOS

Let the celebration begin. The Western Oregon women’s+ rugby 7s team qualified for its first national tournament after winning the recent Fool’s Gold tournament at Boise State University.

50 years ago

Apr. 17, 1974

Fairground event

termed big success

Saturday, April 13 was a beautiful spring day and the Polk County Fairgrounds was buzzing with 4-H kids, their leaders, parents, rabbits and poultry. There was a big turnout for this show and the rummage sale sponsored by the 4-H Horse leaders association. The sale was very successful, with about $200 to turn over to the fair board to be used for the new multipurpose building at the Fairgrounds.

Dallas Clean up planned for Earth Week event

Track teams

A city-wide, clean-up day for Dallas where residents will be asked to sort and bag recyclable items such as tin cans, returnable bottles and newsprint, has been set for April 27 by the HELP (Help Earth Live Permanently) ecology club at Dallas High School. The event is to highlight the observance of Earth Week in Dallas, which has been set by proclamation of the mayor for April 22-27. The cleanup will be conducted with the help of various service clubs, scouting groups and other volunteer organizations.

outrace FG The favored Forest Grove boys’ track and field team came to Dallas Thursday afternoon but were downed in a nip-and-tuck meet 75-69 Meanwhile, at Forest Grove the Dragon gals were defeating their Viking hosts 58-49 to make it a clean sweep. The feminine portion of the Dragon track team came up with a couple of school records in Viking land. Sally McPherson broke her old mile record of 5:37 5 with a rapid 5:35 3. Teammate Sue Schierling broke her own previous school’s best in the shot (36-7) with a long 37-7 to help her team defeat FG. Schierling also had firsts in the discus and javelin.

40 years ago

Apr. 18, 1984

Unger picked as EMT of the year

Volunteer Dennis Unger was named by his peers as “Emergency Medical Technician of the Year” during Dallas Ambulance

Association Awards Banquet Saturday night at the Dallas Civic Center. Unger, an EMT II, was judged the winner based on hours spent on call, concern shown for patient care and for providing good patient-EMT relationships.

Realtor of the Year honored Monmouth’s Virginia Clarke was honored Thursday night as 1984 Realtor of the Year by the Polk County Board of Realtors in a banquet at the Blue Garden Restaurant. Clarke, of Smith & Smith Realty, has worked in the same

The Dallas High School boys’ track team took first place in all 10 running events Thursday to defeat visiting Molalla in a dual meet, 95-46 The meet was highlighted by 16 personal records by the Dragons. Freshman Jeff Jones was a four-time winner for Dallas, taking the 100 meters, both

MOMENTS IN TIME

• On April 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial opened in Washington, D.C. The granite and bronze monument stands on 7.4 acres on the former site of the Rainbow Pool at the National Mall, between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

• On April 30, 1993, tennis player Monica Seles was stabbed between the shoulder blades by Gunter Parche during a match in Hamburg. Parche, a fan of German tennis star Steffi Graf, apparently hoped that by injuring Seles, his idol would be able to regain her No. 1 ranking.

• On May 1, 1963, Gloria Steinem published the first half of “A Bunny’s Tale” in SHOW magazine, recounting her brief stint as a Bunny in Manhattan’s Playboy Club. Steinem’s undercover reporting revealed a culture of misogyny and exploitation behind the glamorous facade of Hugh Hefner’s empire.

• On May 2, 1924, Patrick Mahon was arrested at London’s Waterloo train station on suspicion of murder. He was executed later that year for killing his pregnant mistress, but an important innovation resulted from the crime scene: The officers, who had no gloves, were forced to handle the victim’s remains with their bare hands. After the investigation, rubber gloves became standard equipment at murder scenes.

• On May 3, 1980, 13-year-old Cari Lightner of Fair Oaks, California, was walking to a church carnival when she was struck and killed by an outof-control car driven by an intoxicated Clarence Busch. Her death led her mother, Candy Lightner, to found the organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), which would grow into one of the country’s most influential nonprofit organizations.

• On May 4, 1776, Rhode Island, which was founded by the most radical religious dissenters from the Puritans of Massachusetts Bay Colony, became the first North American colony to renounce its allegiance to King George III. It would also be the last state to ratify the new American Constitution more than 14 years later.

TRIVIA TEST

By FIFI RODRIGUEZ

QUESTIONS

1. MOVIES: Which dramatic film features the character “V”?

2. GEOGRAPHY: Luzon belongs to which island nation?

3. LANGUAGE: What is the Latin phrase for “before the war”?

4. U.S. STATES: Which state has the most national parks?

5. LITERATURE: Which 1950s novel includes the line, “Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road.”

6. CHEMISTRY: What kind of gas makes a drink bubbly?

7. TELEVISION: Which sitcom features a mom named Debra Barone?

8. MUSIC: What was the former name of the English band Muse?

9. SCIENCE: What are the gaps between nerve cells called?

10. THEATER: Who wrote the play “The Crucible”?

ANSWERS

1. “V for Vendetta” (2005).

2. The Philippines.

3. Antebellum.

4. California, with nine.

5. “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac.

6. Carbon dioxide.

7. “Everybody Loves Raymond.”

8. Rocket Baby Dolls.

9. Synapses.

10. Arthur Miller.

Puzzle answers on page B2

PUBLIC RECORD

• At 5:43 p.m., a report of theft on Kings Valley Highway. Alicia Miller was cited for an outstanding Albany warrant and was arrested and charged with theft 2 and criminal mischief 2 then lodged at Polk County Jail. Joshua Taylor Jr. was cited and released on an outstanding Albany warrant.

Dallas Police Department

Thursday, April 4

• At 6:54 a.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Washington Street. An officer found the registered owner works at West Valley Hospital.

• At 9:14 a.m., a report of fraud on Walnut Avenue. An officer explained to the complainant that the gas station would charge the correct amount when the transaction went through.

• At 9:19 a.m., an officer escorted Dallas High School Theater regional champions on their way to the state competition.

• At 9:20 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 36 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 10:31 a.m., a report of harassment on Lacreole Drive. One student had punched another.

• At 10:40 a.m., a report of a large amount of small baggies with residue, burnt tinfoil and a needle found in a public restroom on Ellendale Avenue.

• At 12:54 p.m., an officer assisted Code Services with towing an RV on Mill Street.

• At 2:04 p.m., a report of a burglary on Rhododendron Drive while the owners were on vacation.

• At 2:08 p.m., a report of harassment on Dimick Street. There was a quarrel between neighbors over parking. No crimes were committed.

• At 3:12 p.m., an officer assisted Code Services with a tow of a motor home on Mill Street.

• At 3:42 p.m., a report of theft of cash from a birthday card on Jasper Street.

• At 4:23 pm, Justin Stocker was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Monmouth and was lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 5:53 p.m., a report of criminal mischief on Allgood Street. Two juveniles were admonished for their actions in the park and were told to go home. There were no signs of criminal damages.

• At 6:09 p.m., a report that someone slashed the tires of an RV on Stettler Street. There is no suspect information.

• At 9:23 p.m., a motorist was warned for no lights and no insurance on Washington Street.

• At 9:35 p.m., a motorist was warned for an improper turn, failure to register and no insurance.

• At 9:52 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Clay Street. Subjects were yelling while searching for a key.

Friday, April 5

• At 1 a.m., a report of a suspicious person on Denton Avenue. An unhoused person was out and about and acting oddly.

• At 1:16 a.m., a motorist was verbally warned for expired registration tags on Westwood Drive.

• At 8:04 am, Russ Littleton was arrested on an outstanding municipal warrant and lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 8:30 a.m., a juvenile motorist was warned for using a mobile device while driving. Their parents were called and advised.

• At 10:45 a.m., Isaiah Washington was cited and released for two outstanding warrants.

• At 11:52 a.m., a juvenile motorist was warned for speeding on Mason Street. The officer had the juvenile call his parents and explain the reason for the stop.

• At 1:52 p.m., a report of trespassing on Levens Street. The subject was advised not to loiter at the church.

• At 2:18 p.m., a motorist was warned for failure to yield to a pedestrian on Washington Street.

• At 7:10 p.m., a report of a suspicious person on Ellendale Avenue. A male got out of his vehicle with a bat and approached another vehicle. The second vehicle then left; this was a secondhand account.

• At 9:02 p.m., a report of a vehicle driving recklessly with children not wearing seat belts on Ellendale Avenue. An officer located the vehicle and spoke to the driver about their driving and the seatbelt issue.

• At 11:48 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for speeding on Main Street.

Saturday, April 6

• At 2:03 a.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Lacreole Drive. The subject was playing fetch with his dog.

• At 3:36 a.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Oak Street. An unhoused person was sleeping in their vehicle.

• At 5:51 a.m., a motorist was warned for speeding 33 mph in a 25-mph zone.

• At 9:55 a.m., a report of a subject dropping a drug pipe on the ground on Main Street. The subject was asked to leave the business for a day.

• At 11:05 a.m., a report of a suspicious person on Kings Valley Highway. The subject was acting oddly by the lottery machine. No crimes were committed and the business did not ask for him to be trespassed from the property.

• At 12:02 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Fern Avenue. The driver was contacted and left without issue.

• At 5:42 p.m., a report of a suspicious person on Jasper Street. The subject was taking a book from a free book bin.

• At 6:22 p.m., a report of a hit and run on Washington Street. The matter is under investigation.

Sunday, April 7

• At 7:11 a.m., a report of a missing person who had not come home after drinking last night. The family was able to find the subject at Taco Bell.

• At 9:36 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on La Creole Drive. It was a verbal only altercation, no crimes were committed.

• At 12:10 p.m., a found phone was turned in to police on Court Street.

• At 4:18 p.m., a report of a dog in a vehicle. The dog seemed happy and healthy with all four windows down.

• At 6:59 p.m., a report of two subjects and a dog inside the fenced area at Whitworth on Miller Avenue. The officer drove around the area and was unable to locate the subjects.

• At 8:29 p.m., a report of ongoing animal neglect on Hankel Street.

Monday, April 8

• At 12:10 a.m., the officer issued park trespass notices to two individuals on Main Street.

• At 2:15 a.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Ellendale Avenue. Subjects were parked, checking their vehicle’s oil.

• At 6:24 a.m., Alex Stuller was arrested for, charged with theft 3 and lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 9:22 a.m., a motorist was warned for expired registration.

• At 9:36 a.m., a motorist was warned for speeding 28 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 11:05 am a report of assault on Washington Street. Evelyn Pena-Corona was cited and released for harassment for hitting a nurse at the Willamette Valley Hospital.

• At 12:19 p.m., a report of a suspicious person on Main Street. Stephanie Cutler was arrested on a probation violation and was lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 3:01 p.m., a report of criminal mischief on Ellendale Avenue. A small warming fire caused damage to a water valve cover.

• At 3:08 p.m., a motorist was given a verbal warning for

speeding 31 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 4:06 p.m., Charles Ruston was arrested on an outstanding Dallas Municipal warrant and lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 4:25 p.m., Christopher Stewart was arrested on a parole and probation warrant then lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 8:08p.m., a report of theft on Ellendale Avenue. Cody Bordeaux rapidly escalated the contact and was arrested and charged with theft 3, disorderly conduct 2, resisting arrest, menacing, escape 2, assault 4 and recklessly endangering another. He was lodged at Polk County jail where his behavior continued.

• At 9:35 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on La Creole Drive. Subjects were talking in their vehicle, and they were informed of the park hours.

Tuesday, March 9

• At 12:24 a.m., a report of a dog barking on Hankel Street. The officer was unable to hear any barking.

• At 4:11 a.m., an alarm activation was received on Magnolia Avenue. Officers checked and found the residence to be secure.

• At 7:26 a.m., a report of two subjects camping along the trail of the park on Wyatt Street. Officers contacted subjects and informed them of city ordinances of camping in the park.

• At 8:09 a.m., a report of a disturbance on Court Street. An unhoused person was yelling and cussing and was asked to move along.

• At 9:27 a.m., a motorist was given a verbal warning for failure to stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian.

• At 9:56 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 44 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 11:53 a.m., a juvenile motorist was cited for speeding 41 mph in a 25-mph zone. The parents were called and notified of the violation.

• At 12:50 p.m., a report of suspicious activity, an individual possibly trying to break into a residence. The subject stated she was only knocking on the door.

• At 1:12 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for driving the wrong direction on Jefferson Street.

• At 1:22 p.m., a report of the theft of $673 62 worth of merchandise on Kings Valley Highway.

• At 3:09 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 40 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 4:48 p.m., a juvenile was riding his pocket bike on the roadway on Holman Avenue. The officer informed the subject of the laws of pocket bikes, and he agreed to walk it home.

• At 6:10 p.m., a report of criminal mischief on Kings Valley Highway. Two juveniles were riding a bike inside the store and ran out when contacted by an employee.

• At 6:32 p.m., a report of a male breaking into an RV. The subject had the title and bill of sale.

• At 7:09 p.m., a report of an intoxicated person on Kings Valley Highway. The subject’s daughter picked her up.

Wednesday, April 10

• At 6:03 a.m. a motorist was given a verbal warning for speeding and failure to carry proof of insurance.

• At 7:05 a.m., three unhoused persons were sleeping at the entrance to Washington Federal Bank and were asked to move along.

• At 7:33 a.m., a report of criminal mischief on La Creole Drive. A student put lotion all over a restroom floor and when a teacher entered, they slipped, fell and were injured.

• At 1:54 p.m. a motorist was cited for speeding 44 mph in a 20-mph zone.

• At 2:39 p.m., Melinda Patterson was arrested and charged with theft 2 and lodged at Polk County Jail.

• At 3:17p.m., a report of theft on Holman Avenue. The victim declined prosecution.

• At 4:09 p.m., a report of a disturbance at the park on Algood Street. A subject was yelling as he sat in his mini van and was asked to keep the yelling down.

Independence Police Department

Thursday, April 4

• At 3:52 p.m., a report of a fight between two juveniles on Monmouth Street.

• At 11:37 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle with its trunk open on Hickory Street. Officers informed the owner the trunk was open, who had forgotten to close it.

Friday, April 5

• At 10:09 a.m., a report of a possibly abandoned vehicle on D Street.

• At 10:28 a.m., Sergio Jimenez was cited and released on an outstanding municipal warrant.

• At 11:49 a.m., fraudulent bills were seized on Main Street.

• At 2:10 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Osprey Lane. A juvenile dropped a bong in a stairwell and was trespassed from the location.

• At 10:08 p.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle at Tylers Place. An officer verified it was a house sitter.

• At 11:37 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for speeding 47 mph in a 35 -mph zone on Main Street. The officer discussed having current registration and proof of insurance in the vehicle. The driver was cordial and apologetic.

• At 11:59 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for speeding 45 mph in a 35-mph zone on Main Street. Driver was the designated driver for intoxicated individuals and registered owner was warned to update DMV address.

Saturday, April 6

• At 1:15 a.m. a motorist was verbally warned for driving with no headlights on Monmouth Street. The driver had just left Taco Bell and had forgotten to turn the lights back on.

• At 2:20 a.m., a motorist was verbally warned for having their front license plate in windshield on Chestnut Street. The officer discussed the darkness of window tint with the driver.

• At 2:33 a.m., an officer responded to a vehicle crashing into a parked vehicle on Maple Drive. The officer detected the odor of alcohol emanating from the driver’s breath and the driver consented to field sobriety tests. Jose Guadelupe Aguilar Pena performed poorly and was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant. The driver blew 0 16

• At 10:50 a.m., a loose dog was found on Main Street and returned to the owner.

• At 8:54 p.m., a report of a homeless man inside complainant’s vehicle on Stryker Road. The complainant chose not to press charges and the intoxicated homeless person was trespassed from the location.

Sunday, April 7

• At 9:19 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on College Street. It was a verbal only argument.

• At 1:08 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding on Main Street.

• At 2:02 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for failure to obey a traffic control device.

• At 2:44 p.m. a motorist was stopped west of the Independence Library for a trailer wheel smoking. Hay bales were smoking, and the fire was put out with water.

• At 6:04 p.m., a report of theft on Monmouth Street. There were no suspect leads.

• At 8:13 p.m., a motorist was stopped for speeding on Monmouth Street.

• At 10:34 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for illegal front and rear plate covers. An officer discussed having proof of insurance in any vehicle the motorist drove.

• At 11:36 p.m., the officer verbally warned two individuals for violation of park hours.

Monday, April 8

• At 4:38 a.m. a motorist was verbally warned for driving 48 mph in a 35-mph zone on Main Street.

• At 5:27 a.m., a motorist was verbally warned for driving 46 mph in a 35-mph zone and for

not having headlights on, on Independence Highway.

• At 5:47 a.m., an officer responded to a CPR call on April Court and took over compressions, then heard air in patient’s lungs. Medics transported the patient to the hospital.

• At 6:25 a.m., a motorist was verbally warned for driving 46 mph in a 35-mph zone and failure to notify DMV of a new address on Main Street.

• At 10:21 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving 35 mph in a 20-mph school zone on Monmouth Street.

• At 11:27 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Deann Street. The subject reported it was a verbal only disturbance and they felt safe to remain in the same residence.

• At 3:32 p.m., a motorist was verbally warned for using their cell phone while driving on Main Street.

Tuesday, April 9

• At 12:20 a.m., while doing an area check on C Street an officer found significant graffiti in the men’s restroom and beer in a stall. They will forward information to Independence Public Works.

• At 8:17 a.m., a motorist driving a box truck/van was cited for cell phone use while driving on Monmouth Street.

• At 8:37 a.m., a motorist was cited for cell phone use while driving (second offense in 10 years) and warned for expired registration on Monmouth Street.

• At 9:09 a.m., a motorist was cited for cell phone use while driving on Monmouth Street and was warned for failing to notify DMV of an address change.

• At 9:53 a.m., a motorist driving a commercial box truck was cited for cell phone use while driving on Monmouth Street.

• At 10:38 a.m., a motorist was cited for cell phone use while driving on Monmouth Street.

Monmouth Police Department

• Andrea C Kade, 18, was arrested March 26 and charged with theft 3

• Jason J Brown, 37, was arrested April 8 and charged with trespass 2

• Shelbi Taylor, 30, was arrested April 5 and charged with theft I.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

• Daren Nathaniel Adams was arrested April 10 and charged with post prison violation (burglary 1).

• Brenden Keith Ames was arrested April 14 and charged with five counts of failure to appear (theft 1, criminal mischief 2, criminal trespass 2, aggravated theft 1, unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle).

• Salvador Anegandro Birrueta-Farias was arrested April 10 and charged with five counts of failure to appear (three counts of harassment, attempt assault 4, assault 4).

• Cody Lynn Boudreaux was arrested April 9 and charged with theft 3, disorderly conduct 2, resisting arrest, menacing, escape 2, two counts of assault 4, two counts of recklessly endangering and post-prison violation (unlawful use of a vehicle).

• Jose De Jesus Casillas was arrested April 13 and charged with identity theft, burglary 2 giving false info-police officer, and theft 2

• Jeffrey Jack Cluff was arrested April 9 and was placed on hold for U.S. Marshals (two counts of robbery 1, two counts of robbery 2, two counts of burglary 1, assault 2).

• Kristopher Anthony Dixon was arrested April 7 and charged with criminal mischief 3, criminal mischief 2 and two counts of contempt of court.

• Timithy Robert Graham was arrested April 10 and placed on hold for U.S. Marshals (probation violation).

• Richard Donald Henley was arrested April 9 and charged with four counts of violation of release agreement, 10 counts of tampering with a witness, two counts of coercion, two counts

of harassment, two counts of criminal mischief 2, criminal trespass 2, two counts of menacing – domestic violence, disorderly conduct 2, six counts of contempt of court, assault 4 – domestic violence, criminal mischief 1, and robbery 3

• Harold Scott Jackson was arrested April 12 and placed on hold for Marion County (contempt of court, driving while suspended) and for Jackson County (failure to appear, driving while suspended, driving under the influence of an intoxicant, reckless driving).

• Jeral Edward Johns was arrested April 8 and placed on hold for U.S. Marshalls.

• Brent Joly was arrested April 11 and charged with arson 1 and criminal mischief 1

• Dakota Wayne Kamna was arrested April 13 and placed on hold for Marion County (theft 3), placed on hold for Linn County (failure to appear warrant for possession of stolen vehicle), and placed on hold for Washington County (two counts of failure to appear – felony possession of a weapon).

• Kevin Thomas Maloney was arrested April 11 and placed on hold for Benton County (burglary 2, theft 3, two counts of trespass 2).

• Jeremy Ronald Ramon was arrested April 8 and charged with six counts of failure to appear (two counts of (forgery 1, two counts of possession of forged instrument 1, identity theft and theft 1).

• Jack Anthony Sacks was arrested April 11 and charged with failure to appear (possession of weapon by felon), fail carry/present op license and criminal trespass 2

• Andres David Silva was arrested April 13 and charged with driving under influence intoxicant and reckless driving.

• Steve Dwaine Simmons was arrested April 8 and placed on hold for U.S. Marshals (possession of a weapon).

• Christopher Michael Stewart was arrested April 8 and charged with post prison violation (strangulation).

• Arlie Calvin Thompson was arrested April 5 and charged with murder 2, attempted murder 1, unlawful use of weapon, kidnapping 1 and assault 1

• Brett William Urben was arrested April 13 and charged with four counts of harassment.

• Christopher Jay Young was arrested April 11 and placed on hold for U.S. Marshals (sexual exploitation of a minor).

• Denise Merrie Bader was arrested April 12 and charged with arson 1, two counts of criminal mischief 1, two counts of burglary 2 and two counts of theft 3

• Stephanie Elaine Cutler was arrested April 8 and charged with four counts of probation violation (criminal mischief 1 criminal trespass 2, harassment and menacing).

• Tammy Kay Mossbrucker was arrested April 12 and charged with failure to appear (driving under the influence of an intoxicant).

• Tammi Jane Nollen was arrested April 12 and charged with assault 3, hit and run vehicle-injury, driving under influence intoxicant, recklessly endangering and reckless driving.

• Christina Louise Barnes was arrested April 7 and charged with criminal trespass 2 and giving false information to a police officer - criminal offense.

• Nyesha Lynn Pettigrew was arrested April 10 and charged with criminal trespass 2, resisting arrest and escape 3

• Michelle Nadine Ray was arrested April 8 and charged with 263 counts of mail theft, criminal possession of forging instrument 2, four counts of criminal possession of forgery instrument 1, identity theft, three counts of felon in possession of weapon (restricted), unlawful possession of methamphetamine, two counts of aggravated theft 1, two counts of felon in possession of body armor, and was placed on hold for Yamhill County (unlawful possession of methamphetamine).

• Brenda Gail Stites was arrested April 11 and charged with probation violation (driving under the influence of an intoxicant).

Rugby WOU womens make history, qualify for nationals

From Page B1

it all by routing the two Idaho schools and tying the Bearcats. The Wolves outscored the competition 59-15 in their three matches.

“My team went out there and laid it all on the line. Sure, there were some mistakes made. But they bounced back from those mishaps and secured their spot for nationals,” Smith said. “We had some great runs, hard hits and phenomenal assists that resulted in tries, and our defense was some of the best we’ve had all season.”

Nowhere was the Wolves’ strong defensive play more

evident, and more needed, then against Willamette. The Oregon teams battled to a 5-5 standstill.

“Willamette brought a different level of play than (we’ve seen) in past games. They made us put in the work,” Smith said. “Our offense wasn’t as strong. But our defense is what kept us from taking a loss.”

Quinn Ridder was credited by Smith with leading the defense. Ridder prevented several scores by running across the pitch to chase down and tackle Willamette players.

Chasing a good time was on Ridder’s mind when she joined the team. “As a rookie, I just wanted to try something new and have fun during my senior year. Then all of a sudden we’re making program history,” Ridder said. “All our hard work and dedication is

paying off, and it’s a very rewarding experience.” The fun factor influenced another player’s decision to join the team.

“I just wanted to play because it was fun, and now we’re going to the national tournament and hopefully bringing home the win,” Jada Miller said. “It’s just such a massive moment for the team and myself … I couldn’t be prouder of my fellow Rugger Wolves.”

The Wolves accomplished this with a roster that included only nine players. For the players, roster size was never an issue. Instead, it was just another day on the pitch. “We have been so used to low numbers that it was not a concern for us, as far as fatigue or motivation goes,” player Emily Moore said. “We knew going in that we were one of the smaller teams in terms of number(s). We trust

each other enough to rely on one another for reassurance and help on the field.”

If this all sounds familiarWolves rugby team makes it to nationals - it’s because it should. Last month the men’s team won their qualifier to secure a spot at the nationals for the second time in program history. They advanced last year and took 10th place. Thus, sports historians should probably add a third entry to their book, as 2024 marks the first time WOU sent men’s and women’s+ rugby 7s teams to nationals in the same year. As of a week ago, no other school from any division had equaled this accomplishment.

“I’ve always felt we were overshadowed by the men’s team,” Ridder said. “So I’m excited to see what opportunities and recognition this brings to our team and to women’s rugby.”

The message is clear for those who want to mix college studies and play their rugby for a budding powerhouse.

“Our success shows that Western Oregon University really values rugby as an avenue to help students pursue a passion and be successful,” said Andy Main, the school’s associate director of campus recreation. “It (also) shows what can be accomplished with hard-working and dedicated individuals at all levels of a program.”

Or as Miller put it.

“Being able to all say that we won this opportunity as a team makes me so excited for our future as a rugby club,” she said. “I have never been so full of pride in my life.”

The only other WOU’s women’s+ rugby team to qualify for nationals was the 2004-05 15s team. They took third place.

Both the men’s and women’s+ teams now travel to Boyds, Maryland, from April 26-28

Donations are being accepted online by both teams to assist with related costs. The women’s team was to participate Saturday at Willamette University, but have since withdrawn. This allows the athletes to rest up, heal and prepare for their cross-country date with destiny.

Also on the roster: Volunteer Mike Gonzalez, Coral Davis, Estela Miranda, Ever Young and Tessa Medina.

“Michael has been of great value to the team and shares in their success as well,” Smith said.

Make an appointment to donate blood during national volunteer month

During National Volunteer Month in April, the American Red Cross asks donors to help protect the blood supply by making and keeping blood or platelet donation appointments in the weeks ahead. Donors of all blood types – especially type O blood donors and

those giving platelets – are needed now to keep the blood supply strong enough to support critical patient care this spring. The Red Cross depends on thousands of volunteer blood donors to collect about 12 000 blood donations every single day. With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential in transfusion care. Blood drives and donation centers also depend on the generosity and valuable time of those who make it possible

for the Red Cross to help people in need. Spring into action – book a time to give lifesaving blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Those who come to give through April 28 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered to win a $7,000 gift card. There will be two lucky winners. See RedCrossBlood.org/Spring for details.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities through April 28: - April 20, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Grocery Outlet, 258 Ellendale Ave., Dallas - April 29, 12-5 p.m., Evangelical Bible Church, 1175 SE Howe St., Dallas

Sponsored by: