One would assume that Blaine likes a whole lot of weird and eclectic stuff, as evidenced by the name of the new Dallas store, Everything Blaine Likes ... And Nothing Else.
Filled to the brim with action figures, music memorabilia, vintage clothing, classic video games and consuls, CDs, toys and so much more, Everything Blaine Likes is one of those kinds of a marketplaces where a customer walks in not knowing what they want until they see it.
But who is owner, Blaine?
He’s Blaine Gorze, who runs the collectibles store with his wife Justine. Now in his 30s, Blaine has been into collecting since his middle school years when he inherited his love of collecting comics from his stepfather.
“That was when I switched from kid playing with toys to kid collecting toys,” Blaine said, chatting from the comfy lounge chairs placed before vintage consuls hooked up
to a tv in the center of his store. He invites any kid to try out a game there before, or after, purchase.
In his own early years, to facilitate his growing addiction, Blaine would take any extra money earned sweeping the floor at his mom’s salon and rush over to KB Toys before it went out of business.
“She’d give me $10. I’d go to KB Toys and buy three figures. Started tacking them to border on the ceiling of my room. Then I started toting them all,” he said.
Back then, he invested heavily into action figures from the World Wrestling Federation and anything else that looked visually cool.
For a decade, however, he gave up toys for other vices – playing guitar, skateboarding and hanging with the punk rock crowds. And, he admits, alcohol.
“I was a big alcoholic age 16 to 23,” Blaine said.
He was turning his life around when he met Justine. He managed security and she bar tended at Duck Fur in Portland. A fellow music
head, they began attending shows in the Portland area together, purchasing memorabilia, vinyl records and t-shirts.
I stopped
on booze and cigarettes, I
for toys and comics
By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer
Tina Andersen is praying for mild weather come Aug. 7. That’s when the 2024 Polk County Fair kicks off and answered prayers mean better odds of attracting bigger crowds.
“Last year, it was not hot. Attendance was up,” said Andersen, fair manager. “When it gets hot, we’re in trouble.”
Last year’s fair attracted just shy of 16,000 attendees. Two years ago, when temperatures topped 100, attendance was down to 9,000
“A good hot year was 12,000. The heat just makes it so hard on kids when they’re showing animals. It just makes for a rough fair when it’s super-hot,” Andersen said.
Eliminating the things out of her control, Andersen figures she and the Polk County Fair Board have assembled the best attraction they can for a fair their size.
This year’s theme, chosen by contest winner Lori Hineman, is “Fun for the Whole Herd,” reflecting enough activities throughout to satisfy everyone.
She ticked off the new attractions sure to be crowd pleasers, starting with FMX Rampage, featuring eighttime Extreme Games gold medalist Adam Jones.
“He put together a really great show. We’re super excited,” Andersen said.
To accommodate his high flying show, staff wiped out one end of the arena.
“We’ve never had enough seating for the rodeo. So now we have taken the fence down on the south end of arena and put the stock on the
outside. People can now sit around the entire arena and enjoy a good view,” Andersen said. “FMX said we’re 280 feet long and he needed 300 feet, but he said he could do it.”
Other new attractions include an 18-hole mini-golf course, a climbing rock wall brought in by the Oregon National Guard, and new bouncy attractions by Willamette Valley Bounce that includes a huge water slide, obstacle course and bounce house.
Polk County Special Olympians shine at state
By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer
For the first time in seven years, Oregon Special Olympics returned to action July 12-14. Athletes from Polk County joined representatives from every county in the state at Reser Stadium at Oregon State University.
Polk County coordinators Madonna and Ron Drummond said their team members were excited to be back in action in some traditional and non-traditional summer, track and field sports.
“Were they successful? Yeah, everyone there had a great time. That’s our goal,” Ron said. “They’re reaction? Higher than a kite.”
“Happy, happy, happy,” his wife, Madonna added. “All the teams. It’s so great. You walk in through the grandstands, people, strangers, and the kids, the athletes, just high fiving each other. They did a great job.” Ron said more than 700 athletes competed in the return of the Oregon Special Olympics, accompanied by 300 coaches and more than 1,000 volunteers.
Polk County’s team had 15 athletes with nine earning medals in events from 4x100 relay, softball and shotput throws and 50- and 100meter dashes. The Drummond’s own
Blaine and Justine Gorze opened Everything Blaine Likes ... And Nothing Else in Dallas on July 6, an eclectic store of offering their favorite items from their personal collections.
FILE PHOTO
The mutton ride is always a popular attraction during Rough Stock Rodeo, happening Thursday, Aug. 8 at the Polk County Fairgrounds.
Luckiamute Valley Charter School receives Farm to School grant
Luckiamute Valley Charter School was one of six Oregon educational institutions to receive a portion of $435,335 in federal funds for Oregon agricultural and nutritional education programs that will establish farms, gardens, and experiences to help connect students with local food systems.
The federal investment is a part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm to School program, which promotes educational programs in Oregon and across the nation that teach children through hands-on experiences, such as planting, watering, and harvesting fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Luckiamute Valley Charter School, located outside of Dallas, received $49,781.
Dallas Days needs volunteers
Dallas Days needs volunteers at the information booth July 26-27. To sign up go to bit.ly/3y90u0T.
Polk County Republicans
meet Aug. 8
Polk County Republicans will meet at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 8 in the Commissioner’s Room at the Polk County Court House, 850 Main St, Dallas. They will talk about the RNC Convention, the Conservative Candidates Potluck from Aug. 3 and Getting Out The Vote.
Abbyy’s hosts
SAR fundraiser
July 31
On July 31, join the Polk County Sheriff Office’s Search and Rescue (SAR) team at Abby’s from 4-8 p.m. for a fundraiser for training and equipment. You can dine-in and enjoy some air conditioning and sports on their TVs, or you can takeout and enjoy a meal at home with the family. The SAR team will receive 20% of all food purchases that specify they are supporting SAR, so make sure to mention that to the cashier (or make a note in the comments if ordering online) that your purchase should be counted towards the fundraiser.
This will be a great opportunity to mingle with some of our SAR members and ask any questions you may have if you think search and rescue is something you’d be interested in trying out.
MERKLEY MONTHLY:
Improving access to rural health care
By SENATOR JEFF MERKLY
Rural health care is an urgent challenge in Oregon. Approximately 35 percent of Oregonians live in rural and frontier communities compared to just 15 percent of the U.S. population. But, too often, we rely on one-size-fitsall approaches that don’t work well in rural communities. So, here’s what I’m doing to help improve access to health care on Oregon’s coast and across the state.
I worked across the aisle to create the new Office of
Rural Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This office is responsible for tailoring health care delivery strategies to the unique needs of rural areas, including developing rural-first programs rather than trying to adapt urban programs to rural settings.
I’m also pushing the federal government – as Oregon’s representative on the U.S. Senate spending committee – to keep investing in rural health care. In March, I secured $2 million for a new chemotherapy clinic in Curry County, where chemotherapy services are not currently offered. This means folks will no longer need to travel hundreds of miles outside of their communities for care. And, after hearing too many heartbreaking stories of addiction and overdose deaths
from fentanyl and other drugs from folks around our state, I made sure that Congress invested $145 billion in the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program in fiscal year 2024 to combat addiction across the country.
As the husband of a nurse, I know that many health care providers in rural areas are overworked and underpaid, clocking too many hours, caring for too many patients, and traveling too many miles to provide care. That’s a recipe for burnout – and workforce shortages only make a bad health care situation worse.
That’s why I reintroduced the Future Advancement of Academic Nursing (FAAN) Act to train and retain more nurses. And I’ve reintroduced the Nurse Overtime and Patient Safety Act to require hospitals and other providers
who participate in Medicare to limit mandatory overtime for nurses, so these new nurses don’t burn out and leave the profession.
Telehealth has also been a game-changer for rural health care. Some Oregonians in rural areas have to drive hundreds of miles each way for basic care – and sometimes even farther to see a specialist. Telehealth brings that care to them. It’s particularly powerful for mental health care, connecting those in isolated areas with the quality care and support they need to thrive. And it’s better for many health care providers, allowing them to spend less time traveling and more time treating patients. Making telehealth work effectively is yet another reason I believe that high-speed internet has to reach every
town and every household across our state. To accomplish that, I supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that included the Broadband Equity, Access, and Development program, which is investing nearly $700 million to expand broadband in Oregon alone. And the American Rescue Plan is providing another 17,000 broadband connections across our state. These investments will connect communities and improve rural health care. These are just a few ways I’m pushing to improve rural health care on the coast and across our state. I’ll keep fighting for more resources so that all Oregonians can access the health care they need, no matter where they live.
Former Polk County health administrator named OHA’s public health director
Naomi Adeline-Biggs, MBBS, MPH, Polk County’s public health administrator since 2022, has been appointed permanent director of Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Public Health Division, effective Aug. 19. As Polk County public health administrator, AdelineBiggs has overseen 25 programs. She commissioned the 2024-27 Polk County Public Health Strategic Plan and piloted a Health Services Communication Assessment that incorporated administrative services, public health, behavioral health and developmental disability services to improve critical public health services and information sharing with communities. She also established an epidemiology team to improve collaboration between staff involved in disease investigation, data
analysis and communications. And she relaunched the county’s Babies First! and CaCoon Home Visiting programs after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and limited nurse capacity.
During her time at Polk County, Adeline-Biggs also served as board chair for the Oregon Coalition of Local Health Officials, where she presided over monthly board meetings, testified before state legislators in support of public health modernization, and presented about public health funding to the Association of Oregon Counties.
Adeline-Biggs came to Oregon after serving the World Health Organization (WHO) during the COVID19 pandemic in Seychelles in East Africa, providing incident management expertise and leadership in communicable
diseases, HIV/AIDS, geographic information systems (GIS), laboratory services and immunizations.
“I’m delighted to join Oregon Health Authority at a time when the agency pursues a critical 2030 goal of eliminating health inequities – a goal I enthusiastically support,” Adeline-Biggs said.
“I’m looking forward to collaborating with the Public Health Division staff and partners across the state to improve the lives of everyone in Oregon.”
OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi said she’s “thrilled to have Dr. Adeline-Biggs join the OHA leadership team and lead our state Public Health Division work as we continue to pursue our 2030 goal of eliminating health inequities.”
“Dr. Adeline-Biggs has demonstrated, throughout her
career, a genuine commitment to ensuring all people and communities can achieve optimum physical, mental, and social well-being through partnerships, prevention, and access to quality, affordable health care,” Dr. Hathi added.
As a physician in her home country of Seychelles, Adeline-Biggs advocated for large-scale policy changes that led to reduced health disparities and widespread promotion of health literacy, particularly among LGBTQ+ and incarcerated patients. During the pandemic, as a WHO employee, she stood up preparedness and response efforts and developed a rapid data reporting system.
Cara Biddlecom, who has served as the Public Health Division’s interim director since October 2023 and at OHA since 2008, is leaving
the agency Friday, July 19, when she plans to relocate to the East Coast.
Biddlecom has brought “transformational leadership to the Public Health Division at a critical time for our state and our agency,” said Dr. Hathi. “She has helped grow the division, implement public health modernization, increase investments in local, Tribal, community-based and state public health, and sustain infrastructure for health equity in the Public Health Division. I’m incredibly grateful for her leadership and wish her the very best.”
Kirsten Aird, the Public Health Division’s interim deputy director, will serve as interim state public health director until Adeline-Biggs starts Aug. 19.
WOU professor releases music album about his transformational life
Ronnie Taylor, a Western Oregon University assistant professor of occupational therapy, recently released a music album, “That One Black Kid” under the name Dr. PDX. The album is autobiographical and includes music chronicling his decision to become a licensed occupational therapist and how he came to teach the subject to others.
Taylor has been a musician since his teens and this
album shares his remarkable journey from high school expulsion to college professor.
During his junior year of high school, Taylor was kicked out of school and could not graduate. He eventually became an EMT and subsequently became a paramedic working in Massachusetts and Washington D.C. Later he went back to school at a community college before transferring to George
Washington University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He was then admitted to the Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program at Pacific University, graduating in 2019. Taylor specializes in hand therapy as an occupational therapist and last year, he joined the faculty at Western Oregon University as an assistant professor. He will teach the inaugural cohort of the Occupational Therapy doctorate program this fall.
Taylor said that during the pandemic, he found himself helping his kids with their school work at home during the day, and after failing to teach his daughter long division, he pivoted to teach them how to write songs and create music. After watching the movie Hamilton, his daughter Zadie asked if he could write the best hip-hop album of all time.
“I don’t know if I can do that, but I can write the best album I’ve ever written,” Taylor replied,
Taylor has published two prior albums, “Lazarus and “Life, Love, Epic” under the stage name Laz, and he said
that his latest release is his best album to date.
Taylor said he wants to leave a legacy of his lived experience for his children and grandchildren, as a record of how his life played out from his perspective through this album.
“I’m excited to begin teaching students this fall as well as sharing my own story through my new album,” said Taylor. “I want to show students –and others - that even if they
have a challenging start to life it is possible to reach your dreams and make a good life for yourself and your family.” Taylor has also made many guest appearances, and performances, and is available as a guest speaker. Find him on X @taylor_ronald.
Learn more about Western’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program online at bit.ly/3SeKFN2.
Sign up for local National Night Out parties
National Night Out is from 5:30-9 p.m. Aug. 6 this year and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is looking forward to meeting with community members to create partnerships, answer questions and build the connection between their deputies and the county residents they serve.
National Night Out began in 1984 as a way to help build relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, while also promoting neighborhood camaraderie. The ultimate goal is to make neighborhoods safer, which is a great thing for everyone.
Anyone interested in hosting a National Night Out event in their neighborhood and would like the PCSO to attend, email ross.jenny@ co.polk.or.us or call (503) 623-9251 to get on their list. Deputies have attended events with just a few neighbors, ones hosted by Home Owners Associations, and big neighborhood block parties.
Whatever your style, the PCSO would be happy to swing by to answer questions or have a conversation about what neighborhood safety looks like.
If you live inside the city limits of a Polk County town, such as West Salem, Dallas, Monmouth or Independence, the PCSO asks that you first reach out to that city’s police
department to see if they will be attending NNO events.
If you are interested in hosting a National Night Out Block Party in your neighborhood and would like Dallas first responders to attend, email Alyson Roberson, communications specialist, at alyson.roberson@dallasor.gov or fill out the online registration at bit.ly/3Sdextb.
The Monmouth and Independence police departments are hosting an event from 6-8 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 200 Monmouth-Independence Highway in Monmouth. For more information about National Night Out, visit the NNO website at https://natw. org.
Oregon seeks volunteers for Selective Service boards
SALEM, Ore. — As global tensions rise and military recruitment faces challenges, the Oregon National Guard is playing a vital role in supporting the Selective Service System, ensuring the state remains prepared for potential national emergencies.
The Selective Service System, an independent agency within the executive branch, is responsible for rapidly providing personnel to the military in a fair and equitable manner if the President and Congress authorize conscription. While the United States has maintained an all-volunteer force for decades, the system remains a crucial component of national defense readiness.
“The Selective Service is a vital pillar in our national defense posture,” said Michael Kalberg, Oregon’s State Director for the Selective Service System. “Even though it may be overlooked by some, it’s an important component of our government.”
The Oregon National Guard and Selective Service System are actively seeking volunteers to serve on local boards, particularly in rural
areas. In Oregon, the Selective Service State Headquarters is located at the Salem Armory on 17th St. The state’s mission includes maintaining staffing for local draft boards, preparing to activate a fully operational state headquarters if needed, and supporting the ongoing registration of 18-year-old males.
Lt. Col. Robert Earhart, the Selective Service Reserve Service Member for Oregon, explained the system’s role: “Most people are familiar with the draft during World War Two through Vietnam. It’s been a volunteer force for the past several decades, so the draft has not been going on. But every state needs to have an apparatus in place in case the President and Congress reinitiate conscription.”
The Oregon National Guard provides critical support to the Selective Service mission. This partnership includes sharing facilities, logistical support, and personnel. In addition to occupying space at the Salem Armory, National Guard Armory facilities and administrative equipment would be made available for
temporary operations in the event of activation.
“We’ve had a lot of success in Oregon over the last 50 years, and this office has been functional,” Earhart said. “A lot of great people have come through, and a lot of great volunteers helping us along the way.”
However, the system faces challenges, particularly in rural areas. Oregon is divided into 18 local boards, with nine single-county boards and nine multi-county boards. As of July 2024, five boards are inoperable due to volunteer board member vacancies across 14 counties.
“We have vacancies quite a few vacancies around the state,” Earhart noted. To reach board capacity, “I could probably fill another 30 slots.”
These local boards play a crucial role in the Selective Service process. In the event of a draft, board members would review and decide on draftee claims for exemptions, postponements, or deferments from military service.
“It’s a big responsibility because you hold someone’s future in your hands,” Earhart explained. “It’s a matter of
trust, logic, and an understanding of the story being told to you.”
The time commitment for board members is minimal during peacetime — approximately five hours in the first year and two hours annually thereafter. However, their role becomes expanded and critical if a draft is reinstated.
Kalberg emphasized the unique challenges Oregon faces in maintaining the Selective Service System.
“Oregon is not a high-visibility military state. We don’t have a lot of military footprint [in Oregon],” he said. For that reason, probably in particular, Oregonians have never had a history of high registration compliance when young men turn 18.”
Despite these challenges, recent efforts to bolster the system have shown promise. Earhart has been conducting outreach with agency partners, the governor’s office, county commissioners, and service organizations like the VFW and American Legion, which has resulted in several new volunteers in the pipeline.
The Selective Service is also adapting to potential
changes on the national level.
Congress is considering bills that could expand registration requirements, such as the automatic registration of 18-year-old males and including women in the draft. If passed, these changes would significantly increase the workload for local boards.
“If mandated, it’ll be an interesting reaction,” Kalberg said. “We’re not worried about it, but we do need to get the numbers on the paper, get [board members] trained, and get them ready.”
As geopolitical pressures mount and military recruiting struggles to meet its quotas, the importance of the Selective Service System has been identified as a backstop for national defense.
Dr. Kathleen Hicks, Deputy Secretary of Defense, recently stated, “I don’t want people to think the all-volunteer force is sort of alone when the United States must make major decisions. They do not stand alone.”
Citizens interested in serving on local boards can apply online at sss.gov/volunteers to “Get Involved.” Eligible individuals must be U.S. citizens,
at least 18 years old, and willing to undergo training and dedicate time to this crucial role in national preparedness.
“We’re looking for dedicated individuals who want to serve their community and country in this important capacity,” Earhart said. “It’s a unique opportunity to play a vital role in our national defense structure.”
For more information on volunteering or the Selective Service System in Oregon, you can contact Lt. Col. Robert Earhart, SSS Reserve Service Member, at 503-7799473 or rearhart@sss.gov.
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
Lt. Col. Robert Earhart, Selective Service Reserve Force Officer for Oregon, speaks during an interview on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Salem Armory in Salem, Ore. Earhart discussed the Oregon National Guard’s support for the Selective Service System and the need for volunteers to serve on local draft boards.
If
Our economic growth addiction
By PHILIP S. WENZ
“What can prosperity look like in a finite world, with limited resources…?”
— Tim Jackson, “Prosperity Without Growth”
Hurricanes are great for the economy. When a megastorm blasts into a metropolitan area, it typically does at least a billion dollars worth of damage within a few hours.
Cleaning up and repairing the damage — to the extent that is even possible — is economic activity that’s added to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), the total dollar value of goods and services produced in our country each year. And mainstream economic dogma dictates that, for the country to be prosperous, the GDP must keep rising…and rising. Any leveling off of GDP means the economy is stagnating, and a GDP decrease is read as a major recession, or worse.
Thus, the more natural disasters the better, right? Put people to work cleaning up the mess, replacing infrastructure, building new homes, supplying the whole business. Put money in everybody’s wallet so they can buy more and more stuff. People are happy when they have stuff, and happier when they have more.
So the thinking has gone since the days of the 18th-century British economist Adam Smith, the great capitalist theorist who, in his defense, wrote in an era when a significant number of people were first beginning to rise above perennial poverty. Today, those who make economic policy still adhere, almost blindly, to the material growth dogma — and do everything they can to promote ever more growth.
Consequently, today’s mainstream economists looks at people as cogs in the machinery whose function is to produce “wealth” — as some sort of abstract number — not as the rightful beneficiaries and principal reason for economic activity. While few economists would actually claim that hurricanes are “good,” they can’t dissociate the negative consequences of natural disasters, accidents and hospitalizations from their hallowed bottom line of increased GDP.
But now, the stuff-equals-happiness orthodoxy is running into a wall — two walls, actually.
By LUCIE WINBORNE
• Venus is the only planet to spin clockwise.
• Around 600 B.C., a Greek athlete by the name of Protesilaus threw a discus 152 feet from a standing position. His record remained unbroken for over 2,000 years, until Clarence Houser threw a discus 155 feet in 1928.
First, as explained in Tim Jackson’s book “Prosperity without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet,” acquiring more material goods —beyond the basic requirements such as decent housing, food security, a reliable income and assured medical services — actually makes people less happy. This is because striving to get excessive and unnecessary stuff often means workaholic behavior, shopping and acquisition addiction, status anxiety and so on. These exertions are stressful and inevitably unsatisfactory. They, and the attitudes and neuroses underlying them, interfere with pursuits such as devoting time to family, friendship and community bonds, pursuing hobbies and healthful activities and simply relaxing, that actually make people happy and satisfied with their lives.
The second wall the unlimited growth paradigm is hitting — quite quickly — is that of the planet’s finite resources and capacity to sustain our levels of material consumption and waste production. These limits to growth are interacting and reinforcing each other. For example, the biosphere’s inability to absorb the greenhouse gases our economic activities produce as an unused byproduct (waste) are causing the planet to heat up. This is affecting agriculture by causing droughts and unpredictable weather, thus reducing crop production, driving up the price of food, and reducing the discretionary income that’s available for anything else. It is also beginning to limit our capacity for population growth. While that ultimately could mean more money per capita, it would also mean less money and economic activity overall — a limit on economic growth.
We are steeped in consumerism. Constant advertising, our shallow worshiping of the “rich and famous” and the pronouncements of the high priests of economics all push us toward lifestyles that are both unsatisfactory and dangerous to our survival as a species.
But can we kick the endless economic growth habit? We’ll discuss this next at our ecological house.
Philip S. Wenz studies environmental trends and developments. Visit his blog at Firebird Journal (firebirdjournal.com
Letters to the editor
Trump’s vice presidential pick sets up the next 12 years
Soon to be President (again) Donald Trump, didn’t just chose a future president as his vice president, JD Vance. Trump also picked the perfect man as his successor with the perfect wife. Usha Vance, hits all the bases.
Between the two, we can expect the next 12 years to be a republican Washington, DC. Just look at their credentials. He’s a young family man, she is a person of color. He is Catholic, she is Hindu. He was poor, she was raised in a wealthy and an over the top intelligence level family. She has worked in the Supreme Court and has multiple degrees. Between the two of them, they make a perfect, conservative, future president and first lady. And I think for the next 12 years they will be a grand slam for all of America, regardless of party affiliation.
• The nursery rhyme “Humpty Dumpty” doesn’t state that Humpty Dumpty was an egg.
• In the 1950s, Quaker Oats devised a clever marketing scheme in which the company bought 19.11 acres in the Yukon, divided them into 21 million parcels of just a square inch apiece, and included deeds to the tiny plots in boxes of Puffed Wheat and Puffed Rice.
• Niagara Falls is slowly eroding by 1 to 2 feet per year. Since their formation some 12,000 years ago, the falls have already withdrawn 7 miles upstream, and if that rate continues, they should meet up with Lake Erie, about 20 miles from their present site, within the next 35,000 years.
• Lemons float, but limes sink.
Thought for the Day: “I believe ambition is not a dirty word. It’s just believing in yourself and your abilities. Imagine this: What would happen if we were all brave enough to be a little bit more ambitious? I think the world would change.”
– Reese Witherspoon
Donald, J. Trump and JD Vance are the perfect answer for America at this time, and Vance’s wife just adds to what this team brings to the table, with knowledge, experience and understanding, of all aspects of what will Make America Great Again.
Steve Pickering Dallas
DMV needs to leave room for errors
I recently had a non transaction with the Oregon DMV. I discovered that I had lost the title to an old pickup which I have owned for 40+ years.
I traveled to the Dallas DMV to obtain a lost title application. Because I am less than perfect I made two errors filling out the form. Noticing that I had made mistakes in filling out the correct order when listing owners names I whited it them out. Then, after correcting my mistakes, just cover bases, I mailed the form along with a copy of my
vehicle insurance information and a copy of the registration and a check.
Thirteen days later I received everything back with another form essentially stating I was not allowed to make a mistake or to correct it using white out.
I called the DMV Customer Service and asked if they could tell me what I had missed?
I was curious about where within the instructions did it indicate that as a human I was not allowed to make an error then to correct it?
The nice young lady at customer service reviewed her information then, said there were no instructions that covered this type of matter?
As a result I now need to make a second trip to the Dallas DMV and obtain a new application.
Although, I also cannot locate any instructions that cover this issue?
I am left wondering if the DMV somehow expects it’s patrons to have mind reading skills?
JC Hayes Monmouth
Never Trumpers have flipped for the worse
Who can believe Republicans government officials?
While campaigning for the presidential nomination, Nicki Haley said Donald Trump should not be president. She stated, “Trump was too old, too chaotic, too unhinged” and too prone to temper tantrums. Now she’s on the convention stage singing his praises. I guess he got younger, less chaotic and less unhinged.
J.D. Vance once called Trump a “moral disaster” and “America’s Hitler”. In 2016 and 2017, Vance said Trump was “cultural heroin”, said Trump committed “serial sexual assaults” and called him “one of America’s most hated, villainous, douchey celebs”. Now he’s Trump’s VP nominee? Makes no sense to me.
I don’t trust either one of them.
Why did Trump call Robert Kennedy, Jr. for his endorsement?
Does he think he needs a Kennedy endorsement to win the election?
Judge Aileen Cannon, who dismissed Trump’s classified documents case, should never have been the one to make the decision. She was appointed by Trump, so what else should we have expected from her?
Trump’s “Project 2025” is a threat to everyone. The president would be able to directly implement policies in a number of areas, it would eliminate job protection for thousands of Federal employees and the positions could be replaced by political employees, and it could eliminate the department of education. These are just a few of the items that could happen.
It seems like Trump wants to be Czar of the United States. Absolute power corrupts absolutely!
Clifford Brown Dallas
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor should contain at most 350 words. The Polk Itemizer-Observer reserves the right to edit, condense, or reject any letter to the editor. Letters published in The Itemizer-Observer will also be published online. Letters to the editor and guest columns must include your first and last name, city or town or residence, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters endorsing candidates or campaign issues must be received no later than ten days before an election. Letters written by candidates will not be accepted. Letters to the editor should be the author’s work. We strongly discourage and will attempt to weed out form letters, letters mailed to other news outlets, or letters written and edited by a third party, including but not limited to political parties. We try to restrict the printing of one submission per author per month. We do not publish anonymous letters, personal attacks, personal complaints, poetry, consumer complaints, or letters written in bad taste. To send a letter: Mail: Editor, Polk County Itemizer-Observer, P.O. Box 108, Dallas, OR 97338. Email: ionews@polkio.com. Office: 147 SE Court St., Dallas.
TOWN CRIER
Wednesday, July 24
• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center
• 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
• 10 a.m. - Don’t Bug Me, I’m Reading! with Greta Pedersen, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.
• 10:30 a.m. - Little Bitty Storytime, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
• 10:30 a.m. - Story Time with Miss Jo, Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.
• 11:30 a.m. - Dallas Library Summer Reading Terrific Tuesday with Magician Jeff Evans, Dallas City Park’s Siebert Fredrickson Memorial Shelter
• 12 p.m. - Watch Repair Day, Monmouth Senior Community Center
• 4 p.m. - The Draw - A New Drawing Club Just for Teens, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
The Schown Slade Band performs classic rock and country music at the free Dallas Sounds of Summer Concert at 7 p.m. July 25 at the Dallas Rotary Amphitheater at Main and Academy streets downtown.
While there, visit the Sunday in the Park booth to purchase advance tickets to Dallas Rotary’s Breakfast in the Park and get information about Art in the Park and the Car Show that will share Dallas City Park on July 28. Free water from Dallas Grocery Outlet will be available.
Dallas Rotarians will be selling breakfast tickets — adults (12+ years old), $11 advance, $13 at the gate; child (4-11 years old), $6; children 3 and under, free. Tickets are also available online at https://dallasarearotaryclub.square.site.
at Monmouth Public Works, 401 N Hogan Road, Monmouth, or watch virtually, for agenda and virtual link details, go to https://minetfiber.com/ board-of-directors
• 6:30 p.m. - Music Jam, Monmouth Senior Center
• 6:30 p.m. - Music in the Park: River Divide (country/rock), Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E.
Thursday, July 25
• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center
• 10 a.m. - Online and Mobile Banking 101, Monmouth Senior Community Center 10:30 a.m. - Children’s Storytime, ages 0-5, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
• 12 p.m. - Dallas Economic Development Commission meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.
• 12:45 p.m. - South Dallas Urban Renewal District Advisory Committee meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.
• 1 p.m. - Genealogy Assistance. Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.
Polk County Democrats host booth at Dallas Days The Polk County Democrats welcome everyone to stop by their booth at the Dallas Days celebration, July 26-27. They will have voter registration forms, candidate information, buttons for sale, and fresh cold water.
Dallas Fire & EMS hosts corn hole tournament at Dallas Days
Dallas Fire & EMS is hosting a cornhole tournament during Dallas Days at 3 p.m. July 27 at 915 SE Shelton St. Proceeds go to support The Muscular Dystrophy Association. Registration is $30 for teams of two. Proceeds split with cash prizes. Download the Scoreholio app to register on your phone’s app store. For more information, contact Rob Anderson at (503) 983-4764.
• 2 p.m. - Live Music: Chevy Tardiff, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence
• 6 p.m. - Live Music: The Vindicators, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence
Sunday, July 28
• 2 p.m. - Live Music: Kevin Hansen, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence
• 2 p.m. - Live Music: Tony Lundervold, Benedetto Vineyards, 14020 Orchard Knob Road, Dallas
Monday, July 29
• 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
Community Briefs
Library hosts party in the park July 30
Dallas Library is hosting a cake party with some fun activities and city of Dallas vehicles to explore, at 11:30 a.m. July 30 at the Dallas City Park Seibert Fredrickson Memorial Shelter. Contact the library at (503) 623-2633 with any questions about this Terrific Tuesday event and/ or the Dallas Public Library Summer Reading Program.
Lady Dragons Softball tryouts are July 30
Join the Lady Dragons softball team for fall 2024 and spring 2025 for 18U, 16U, 14U and 12U players. Tryouts are July 30 at Lyle Softball Complex in Dallas. Pitchers and catchers are 5-6 p.m. and all players are 6-8 p.m. Bring your own gear (glove, bat and helmet), a water bottle and a positive attitude. Preregister at https://TSHQ. bluesombrero.com/default.
LACK FAMILY
Free BBQ From 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Free Concert Begins at 7:00 PM
aspx?tabid=1974296. Coaches are also gauging interesting for a 10U team. If interested, contact ladydragonsfastpitch@ gmail.com.
Registration open for Dragons Youth Football Registration now open for Dallas Dragons Youth Football. Dallas Youth Football has officially joined the Tualatin Valley Youth Football League. The league coaches the fundamentals of football, in addition to life skills, such as sportsmanship, commitment, discipline, determination, humility, respect, teamwork, resilience, responsibility, hard work, and more. The summer/fall season is August through October. Flag football is $160, while tackle football is $250. To register, go to https://dallasyouthfootball.sportngin.com/register/ form/538119931. For more information, go to www.
• 1 p.m. - Tai Chi w/ Cheryl, Monmouth Senior Center
• 1 p.m. - Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center
• 6 p.m. - Karaoke, Dallas Area Senior Center
Tuesday, July 30
• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center
• 10:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center
• 10:30 a.m. - Children’s Storytime, for ages 5 and under, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
• 11 a.m. - Alzheimer’s Support Group, Dallas Area Senior Center
• 11:15 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center
• 11:30 a.m. - Dallas Library Summer Reading Terrific Tuesday Celebration, Dallas City Park’s Siebert Fredrickson Memorial Shelter, SW Allgood St.
• 12 p.m. - Pinochle/ Ponytail, Monmouth Senior Center
• 1 p.m. - Healthy Soul, Dallas Area Senior Center
• 6 p.m. - Belly Dancing for Fun & Fitness, Monmouth Senior Center
• 7:30 p.m. - Basics of Social Dance, Monmouth Senior Center
Wednesday, July 31
• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center
dallasdragonsyouthfootball. com.
Kids Inc volleyball registration opens Fall Volleyball registration is open for third through eighth graders in Kids, Inc of Dallas’ popular sports programs. Camp/tryouts are Aug. 22-24 from 10 a.m. to noon at a location to be announced. Seventh and eighth graders must be registered to attend the camp tryouts. Practices will start right after teams are formed. League games start in September and are completed by the end of October. Registration ends July 31. Cost is $100 for grade 3-6 and $150 for grades 7-8. Scholarships are available. Email the Kids Inc office at kidsincoffice@gmail.com for an application, before you register. For more info and to register, go to bit.ly/45PEsNj.
• 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
• 10 a.m. - Journey Under the Sea, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.
• 10:30 a.m. - Little Bitty Storytime, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
• 10:30 a.m. - Story Time with Miss Jo, Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.
• 11:30 a.m. - Dallas Library Summer Reading Terrific Tuesday with Magician Jeff Evans, Dallas City Park’s Siebert Fredrickson Memorial Shelter
• 12 p.m. - Watch Repair Day, Monmouth Senior Community Center
• 4 p.m. - The Draw - A New Drawing Club Just for Teens, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.
• 6:30 p.m. - Music Jam, Monmouth Senior Center
• 6:30 p.m. - Music in the Park: The Severin Sisters, Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E., Monmouth
CHS class of ‘74 plans 50th reunion Aug. 3-4 The Central High School Class of 1974 will have its 50th reunion on Aug. 3-4. For more information, contact DeAnn (Cobine) Ainsworth at (503) 559-2400 or email central74reunion@gmail.com. USA Prime Willamette Valley presents Vacation Baseball School Aug. 5-9 USA Prime Willamette Valley’s third annual Vacation Baseball School with the Mavericks League, for ages 8-16, is Aug. 5-9 from 9 a.m. to
Joanne Scott July 23, 1930 – July 2, 2024
Joanne Beth (McInnis) Scott died on July 2, 2024, of dementia and age-related causes. She will be remembered for her life of quiet service to others in the Methodist church, as an organist and pianist, and as a school counselor.
Joanne was born July 23, 1930, in Ravenna, Nebraska, to Bert and Helen (Duncan) McInnis. She grew up in Poole and Ravenna with brothers, cousins, grandparents, and the loving community, as they all negotiated the hard years of the depression. As a child she came home after school to teach lessons to her class of dolls and stuffed animals, and pretended to play a kitchen chair as if it were a piano.
times as Richard completed his advanced degrees and started his academic career.
In Tacoma, Joanne gave birth to Ann, Kathy and John. The family eventually settled in Monmouth, Oregon to raise the children.
Joanne was the organist at the Methodist church in Monmouth during the 1970s. In 1977 she completed a master’s degree in counseling at OCE (WOU) and began her career as an elementary school counselor in Independence.
In the 80s she played at Faith Lutheran Church in Keizer, and in the 90s began playing at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salem. During the 90s she also began accompanying the Just For Fun Singers choir in Salem. She retired from the school district in 1995 and finally retired from the organ bench at Trinity in 2015. Her tally at that point was that she’d been playing piano and organ for the church for about 70 years.
ministry at Trinity UMC. She traveled extensively around North America and the world. Joanne and Richard divorced in 1982. Joanne was predeceased by her parents, brothers Jerry and Kenneth, and daughters Ann TaylorMichaels and Kathy Scott. She is survived by son John Scott, cousin Andrea Xaver, her sisters-in-law Jolene McInnis and Donna McInnis, and by many in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Memorial service is planned for July 27, 2024, at Salem First United Methodist Church. You are welcome to give memorial gifts to your local food bank.
until she was 80! She loved organizing family reunions and spending time with her family most of all. She loved us all unconditionally and supported us in anything we did! Her sense of humor was amazing. Widowed at a young age, she was very independent. She welcomed all to her dinner table and opened her home to any relatives traveling. She was an amazing wife, mother, mother-in-law, gramma, great gramma, auntie, friend and surrogate mom and gramma. She will forever be in our hearts.
grandmother, great grandma, great-great grandma and friend to many, passed way last Wednesday in her Salem home.
AnnaMarie is survived by her two sons Jeffrey and Scott DeLauder; Jeff’s wife Linda DeLauder; grandchildren Mike DeLauder, Sandy DeLauder, Zack Flint, Kaylee DeLauder, Desaree Parks and Jeremy DeLauder; 13 great grandchildren, and four greatgreat grandchildren.
quite talented. She was a cat lover and enjoyed feeding and watching songbirds. Mostly our AnnaMarie was known for her love and dedication to her family. Her family was her everything and she was ours. Our hearts are broken at her loss. We were blessed to have loved her and to have had her in our lives. Funeral services will be at Farnstrom’s Mortuary in
Arlene Burger
Mar. 9, 1932 - Jul. 8, 2024
Arlene Betty Meyer Burger was born March 9, 1932, in McIntosh, South Dakota. She passed away July 8, 2024, with family by her side. She moved to Salem, Oregon, when she was five, and graduated from Salem High School in 1950. She married her Luther League sweetheart, Tom Burger, in 1953. They lived in Portland for 20 years, then moved to Perrydale in 1972.
Arlene is survived by her children Sandy, Larry (Tracie), Marty (Tammy), Janet, and Stephanie; grandchildren Kellie, Dena (Spencer), Renae (Scott), Thomas (Kellie), Craig (Irulian), Scott (Jenny), Aimee (Keith), Alicia (Derek), Kellin, Angela and Michael (Madysen); and great-grandchildren Courtney, Parker, Brodie, Wyatt, Jack, Colton, Anna, Arya, Paisley and a baby boy on the way. Also, many nieces and nephews who were like her own children.
AnnaMarie was born in Riverton, Wyoming, to Charles Elwood and Elsie Jacox. She had an older brother Gordon and sister Juanita. AnnaMarie graduated from high school in 29 Palms California where she met Richard, her knight in shining armor, the love of her life. She was only 18 when they married and 19 when they welcomed their first child, son Jeff. A year later they completed their young family with son Scott.
She attended Nebraska Wesleyan and graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1954 as a member of the Phi Beta Kappa academic honors society. In 1955 she married Richard Tyler Scott, from Salem, Oregon. Joanne and Richard crisscrossed America numerous
In addition to her family and music, two of her great loves were swimming and turtles. At various times she was a regular swimmer at the pools in Ravenna, OCE, Olinger (Salem), and Capital Manor. She loved to ride the warm waves at Padre Island, Texas, and other travel destinations. She kept many Nebraska box turtles as pets over the years. One of her life dreams came true when she toured the Galapagos Islands and saw the huge turtles there. While raising her children in Monmouth, Joanne was active in Girl Scouts, AAUW and fundraising for UNICEF. In later years she has been active in the American Guild of Organists, the Hymn Society, the Oregon School Counselor Association, the Oregon Education Association, the American Red Cross, Stephens Ministries, and the dental van
Arlene loved cooking, baking, canning, gardening, yardwork and watching her children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren play any kind of sport. She was active in the Perrydale community for 50 years and several Lutheran churches her whole life. She worked part time
Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; baby daughter Joanne; son-inlaw Doug; her parents; and all her siblings.
There will be a memorial service at a later date.
AnnaMarie loved being a mother. Dick was known for his sense of humor and adventure. AnnaMarie matched him with her quick wit and tenacity which she drew on to keep up with him and their two boys.
The young family purchased a sight-unseen acreage in Alsea, Oregon, in the early 1960s where Dick converted an old barn into a family home and the boys learned to fish in the “DeLauder pond.” Once the boys were school age, they moved to Monmouth where AnnaMarie worked in the school office and some say to keep a close eye on her boys. Once the boys were out of school, she worked for the Oregon Department of Human Services until she retired.
AnnaMarie had an active retirement, enjoyed water aerobics and coordinating activities for her gated community. She had a love for art and was
WOU presents summer production of “Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood”
This summer, Western Oregon University proudly presents its summer theatre production of Ken Ludwig’s “Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood”. Directed by Guest Director Hannah Fawcett, this enchanting adaptation of the classic Robin Hood tale promises to captivate audiences of all ages with its humor, archery, romance, sword fights, and whimsy.
From the elaborate costumes to the innovative set design, every aspect of the show reflects the dedication and passion of the college’s theatre department.
The cast includes a diverse group of emerging actors, many of whom are pursuing degrees in theatre at Western Oregon University. Many other members of the cast are advanced theatre students from Central and Dallas high schools who are excited to see what it’s like to make theatre at the collegiate level. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy of a classic tale this summer. Join in for an unforgettable evening of laughter, romance, and theatrical wonder.
F
air
Expect fun for the whole herd at Polk County Fair
From Page A1
“And we’ve got a virtual reality tent. We’re setting up more things for kids to play. Just looking for more stuff for kids to do,” Andersen said, adding the attraction features 3D, virtual reality goggles for an unforgettable experience. There will be a $2 fee to enter.
The Cast Includes: Graham Glazner as Robin Hood
Savannah King as Maid Marian Kala Geissinger as Friar
Tuck
Kolby Woolsey as Little John Elliot Grass as Deorwynn Pollox Geissinger as Sir Guy of Gisbourne
Sofie Stonebrink as The Sheriff of Nottingham
Grace Kinzie as Prince John
Jasmine Chapman-Macrum
Kiyora Dorres
E Fetterley
Gabby Long
“Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood” runs July 31 - Aug. 3 at 6:30 p.m. and July 31 and Aug. 3 at 1 p.m. The Aug 2 and 3 6:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted. Performances will take place in Rice Auditorium, 344 Knox St N, Monmouth. Free parking will be available in lot B on Knox Street. Unlike past summers, this year the performances will take place inside of Rice Auditorium to allow for theatrical magic and the joys of air conditioning.
The Rough Stock Rodeo also returns this year, better able to utilize the bigger arena configuration.
“Wild West Events Rodeo is returning. They always do a really nice job. We’re happy to have them back,” Andersen said. “We’re adding 200 more seating. They’re bringing in two of their bigger bleachers for us.”
What there won’t be this year, again, is a carnival.
“We cannot get a carnival to save our life,” Anderson said. “There’s only three
Tickets will be “pay what you can”, which means you get to choose what you’ll pay for show tickets. Any amount over $1 allows you to reserve a seat at any performance with a recommended cost $10 per audience member. At the door we will be able to give the remaining tickets away at no cost. The intimate seating arrangement allows for 90 audience members at each performance. Audience members should plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before show time to choose a seat. To reserve tickets go to https:// wou.edu/theatre-dance or call (503) 838-8340. WOU students can receive free tickets, but need to call, email or come to the box office to claim their ticket.
For more information
Including show times and ticketing details, go to https:// wou.edu/theatre-dance or contact Laura Killip at killipl@mail.wou.edu or (503) 838-8340.
companies and right now, they are at $65,000 to bring them in. We’ve never made more than $22,000. So, I’m not putting out that money. If you want a carnival, go to state fair and pay that price.”
In addition, the miniature train has broken down and is in overhaul, with the hope of a return next year.
One of Polk County Fair’s biggest attractions is the 4-H/ FAA livestock auction. Last year 288 entrants brought in nearly $600,000 and Andersen
expects at least that many to return this year.
“It continues to grow, even during COVID that’s all we did was the kids’ auction that raised their animals,” she said.
“I’m so impressed with our community and businesses that stepped to the plate during the worst time for all of us and spent that money for the kids.”
The food court has expanded to 12 vendors, all selling different cuisines. And the entertainment stage features the return of the
Youth Talent Showcase and an appearance of local artist Aaron Shinkle.
Finally, Andersen is proud to have lured away celebrity puppet Buck Trout from Southern Oregon.
“I always go see him and he laughs at me. Well, this year, he called me and said, ‘Well, they’re done with me.’
He runs around in this little car, talks about fishing all kinds of stuff. Talks to all the kids. He’s a super nice guy,” Andersen said.
For a complete breakdown of the Polk County Fair schedule, which runs Aug. 7-10, located at 520 S. Pacific Hwy. West, go to www.co.polk.or.us/fair/annual/ polk-county-fair-2024
Weather permitting, Andersen expects a good time can be had by all.
“We’re the same community county fair, we’ve just added a few more things for people to do,” she said.
“It still has that family flair. Let the kids roam, sit down and have a beer, lunch, dinner.”
HEALTH DIRECTORY
CHIROPRACTIC
• JOYNT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Brian Joynt, DC - 629 Clay Street East, Monmouth, OR 97361 Family-oriented chiropractic clinic, dedicated to creating an unparalleled experience of service, quality and care by teaching the true principles of chiropractic. We look forward to empowering each of you to help your family participate more fully in life. New patients welcome. Accept most insurance. Auto/ personal injury and work comp. Massage therapist on site. Complimentary consultations. Call us today to make your appointment (503) 837-0550.
• THORNTON CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Sharon and Marty Thornton - Palmer Graduates - We care, God cures. 1650 Monmouth St., Independence, OR 97351 503-838-3346. Office hours: Mon & Wed 8am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Tues & Thursday 8:30am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Fri 8am-noon. Serving Polk county for 25 years. Offering Thompson Drop and other hands-on techniques, as well as Advanced Activator Methods and Functional Neurology. We provide gentle and effective full-spine and extremity adjusting for all ages in a loving and caring environment. We are accepting new patients for Family Wellness Care, Medicare, Auto or personal injury & Workers Comp. Licensed Massage Therapy available on site.
COUNSELING
• CROSS AND CROWN COUNSELING offers counseling services to individuals, couples and families as well as seminars and grief recovery workshops. Areas we support but are not limited to are adolescent, premarital, marriage, family, trauma, crisis, grief, depression, anxiety, anger, divorce, and identity crisis. We help our clients find healing, learn communication skills, and appropriate responses to individual and family needs and how to obtain overall health, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We provide a safe and caring environment to face life situations, address interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict and help individuals realize their full potential in order to live decisively with truth, relevance, perspective, and purpose. Our counselors are NCCA Licensed Clinical Christian Counselors, Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselors and Certified Temperament Counselors. Our office is located at 177 SW Oak St., Dallas, OR 97338. For more information or to schedule an appointment visit our website www. crossandcrowncounseling.com or call (503) 917-1625.
GENERAL DENTISTRY
• WESTON K. MORRILL, DMD - 289 E. Ellendale Suite #201, Dallas. 503-623-6616. Family, preventive, and cosmetic dentistry. Complete dentistry for the entire family. Se habla español.
• KENNETH WINOKUR, DMD - 329 South Main Street Independence, OR 97351. 503-838-1633. High quality service with your comfort in mind. Nitrous oxide gas sedation available. www.independencedental. org
IMAGING SERVICES
• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL offers state-of-the-art, all-digital diagnostic imaging services. With your physician’s referral, we provide bone density tests, CT scans, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, X-ray and MRI services. Check out our comfortable and spacious mammography suite. Our imaging services are located at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-6237302. Learn more at salemhealth.org/westvalley.
LABORATORY SERVICES
• SALEM HEALTH HOSPITALS & CLINICS provides lab services at three convenient locations in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. Both fully accredited labs accept health care provider referrals for collections and testing. The labs also offer employment and selfreferral drug testing. Appointments are not required at either location. Learn more at salemhealth.org/lab. WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL outpatient lab available weekdays 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekends 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-814-5227
SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – MONMOUTH is open Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-814-5227.
SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – INDEPENDENCE is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255.
PHYSICAL THERAPY/ REHABILITATION SERVICES
• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL offers a wide range of rehabilitation services. Physical, occupational and speech therapy services are located at 1050 SE Uglow Ave, Dallas, 503-917-2121.
• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC –MONMOUTH offers physical, occupational and speech therapy. Located at 512 Main St., 503-838-1388. Learn more at salemhealth.org/rehab.
PRIMARY CARE
• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS are accepting new patients in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. With a proactive health care approach, the clinics provide care for all ages. Services include annual exams, immunizations, lifestyle counseling. Learn more at salemhealth.org/primary-care.
Dallas — 1000 SE Uglow Ave., 503-623-8376
Independence — 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255
Independence — Central Health and Wellness Center — 1601 Monmouth St., Suite 100, 503-838-0045
Monmouth — 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-838-1182
URGENT CARE
• BESTMED URGENT CARE provides treatments and services for time-sensitive injuries and illnesses. We have caring and knowledgeable providers to treat a variety of conditions such as fever & flu, sprains & strains, allergies & asthma, UTIs, and dehydration. Additional services include sports physicals, on-site lab & x-ray, sutures & stitches, and vaccinations. Walkins are welcome. Learn more online at bestmedclinics. com. The BestMed Urgent Care clinic is located at 186 West Ellendale Avenue in Dallas; 971-900-4984.
A whole lot of weird and eclectic stuff to ad to your collection
From Page A1
By the time he and Justine got married and had their daughter, they had a storage unit full of toys and were still hitting up the “OG” collection stores in Portland, including Doctor Tongs, Coin Corner and the Star Wars Store.
Armed with a big enough collection, they set up their own booths at their first toy show in Vancouver.
“My first show I sold a lot. It was crazy. I learned how much money you could make and learned how not to be impulsive and sell all your stuff right away,” Blaine said. “There were a lot of experienced sellers and collectors.”
He also learned through mistakes. Blaine would put items out at what he thought was fair market value, then watch as the early shoppers would hit up his booth first, walk across to their table and put an extra $100 on the toy for resale.
“After that first show, everything got intense. Anything I do, I get psychotically obsessed,” Blaine said. They started going to comic cons (conventions). What started as hobby was growing into a business. But they weren’t making a lot of money at it. All the initial stops were toy stores. But he also likes music and video games and just about anything else that looks cool.
“When I originally did Everything that Blaine Likes, the idea was to buy stuff that wasn’t just toys. We’ve got furniture in here, all that stuff (pointing towards a section of
10x10.5
the store) is made by Justine’s brother. I like cool lamps, guitars, amps, drum sets. I wanted something more than a toy store. Jewelry,” he said.
But he’s not a pawn shop. If a customer comes in with something, it’s got to really pique his interest.
“Essentially, I won’t buy everything that comes in, but I’m not against it either. If someone rolls in with a grand piano, if we have room for it, I might buy it,” he said.
While he maintained his primary job in HVAC installation in Portland, Justine took a job in Dallas. Their second child last year developed epileptic seizures and Justine needed to spend more time with him. Opening a store in Dallas allowed her more time with the kids than time on the road between here and Portland.
“We went all in. Took everything from the garage and the storage unit,” Blaine said. “She saw I was putting a lot of my skin in the game. So, she brought out all her video game totes, books, her jewelry. We both went all in.”
In their travels, Blaine said he witnessed a lot of youth in and around Dallas just walking places with really nowhere to go. He hopes Everything Blaine Likes gives them a destination.
“I was skateboarder growing up. We all hung out at the skate shop. Kids now have no shops to hang out at except Walmart,” he said.
Justine added they hope to promote other local vendors and businesses they’ve met in their journeys to garage and estate sales.
“We do source out and try to support local, other businesses try to get their products in here, too,” she said.
“Like, I knew nothing about Pokémon cards before. But we have a vendor who offers them, so hopefully people will be bringing theirs in for sale and hopefully I’ll be buying them,” Blaine added.
The one thing that will forever remain in his collection, non-negotiable, is a mannequin prominently on display featuring the actual military costume Kurt Russell wore in the movie “Star Gate.”
“I buy way too much stuff. We get in fights,” Blaine explained. “She’s like, ‘Why did you buy that?’ It was on a Hollywood auction. I bid on it and won.”
However, he won’t admit how much he paid.
“It was way too much,” he did say.
So far, the Dallas community has been impressed with his collection since the store opened July 6
“Barbie items go quickly. Hot Wheels. VHS, people are back into. I sell a lot of video games from vintage consul systems,’ Blaine said. “Just when I think we’ve got it all figured out, we’ll sell a bunch of shoes and hats and not sell a single toy. There’s days vendors sell stuff and we sell none of ours.”
The store advertises as opening at 10 a.m. But it’s more of a goal than a hard rule, as they’re just as likely to get sucked into exploring a garage sale on the way to driving into work.
Blaine already has plans to offer additional merchandise and attractions. They were
A friend actually had a bobblehead doll made of
capturing his inner
approved to bring skateboards to sell wholesale and he wants to set up a stage to pay homage to his music days and feature regional artists.
“There’s a lot of great artists out there. Hip hop, acoustic, rock and roll, punk, alternative. So many great bands. Some of the best bands you’ve ever heard are bands you’ve never heard of,” Blaine said.
He added if you’re one of those people whose parents threw out your collection as
PHOTOS BY DAVID HAYES
Blaine Gorze explains his prized display of Kurt Russell’s costume worn in the movie “Star Gate” is not for sale, at any price.
Blaine Gorze,
superhero.
Fleetwood Mac gets the tribute treatment at Friday concert
By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer
Fleetwood Mac gets the tribute treatment when Taken by the Sky (TBS) returns to the River’s Edge Summer Series stage on Friday.
The concert begins at 8 p.m. At Riverview Park in downtown Independence. Admission is $5 per person.
TBS follows fellow tribute band Whiskey River (Lynyrd Skynyrd), with Hysteria (Def Leppard) and Best of Both Worlds (Van Halen) to follow this summer.
2023 was tribute heavy as well, with faux The Eagles, AC/DC and Journey joining TBS as part of the summer series. TBS was very well received. Buzz about their return has built steadily since this year’s lineup was announced.
Not bad for a band with origins that date three years ago.
“We came together in 2021, much like Fleetwood Mac did—with a phone call that said, ‘Hey, you’re the perfect fit for this project. Want to give it a go?,’ Jessa Campbell said.
“The early days were filled with excitement and the realization that we had something special.” Campbell is TBS’s Stevie Nicks. “Rhiannon” is her favorite Nicks penned song.
It’s “a song that completely captivates me,” she said. “Watching Fleetwood Mac perform it live, you realize it shines even brighter than the studio version. It’s like a spell is cast over the band, and we’re all transported to another place.”
There’s a reason Nicks’s songs resonate with her audiences.
“Stevie’s poetry stands out for me; she writes from a place of truth, and that authenticity is easy to connect with,” Campbell said. “The audience feels that connection too, which creates a magical experience.”
Fleetwood Mac is more than a one-woman act, however. Which means every TBS performer will have me-time Friday.
“What’s nice about Fleetwood Mac is that it’s a true ensemble band. Everyone has their moment to shine,” Campbell said. “Keep an eye out for our rhythm section - Cheo Larcombe and Brian Link - during ‘World Turning’.”
Lawrence Orleck, Colin Hogan and Aram Arslanian round out the band’s roster.
It’s been a busy year for TBS. Appearances at the Aladdin Theatre in Portland and the Lebanon
Strawberry Festival, along with a laser light show at Clatsop County Fairgrounds, are among the highlights so far.
TBS was on the main stage during last week’s Harefest in Canby, described by promoters as “the mother of all tribute band festivals.”
The festival featured large crowds, 27 bands and three stages.
The event has also been described as a summer camp for adults.
“But instead of cheesy camp songs by the fire, we’re blown away by music of legends, sometimes with pyrotechnics,” Campbell explained. “Many attendees have been to dozens of our shows, and this festival takes everything up a notch.”
Given the success of tribute-heavy events such as the River’s Edge Summer Series and Harefest, it doesn’t appear that classic rock, nor the love for the bands that defined the genre, will disappear anytime soon.
“The enduring appeal of this music speaks to its timeless quality and the deep connection it fosters among fans,” Campbell said.
Band members are involved in side projects featuring original music. Others have side projects aligned with tribute. Orleck leads Life During Wartime (Talking Heads). Campbell and Liz Ghiz joined forces on Band After Midnight (ABBA).
Ghiz is the lead singer of Glass of Hearts, a Blondie tribute.
This week’s opening act is Rhythm & Business, Salem’s premier funk and soul band. The 11-piece ensemble leans heavily on a talented horn section. Tower of Power and Earth, Wind & Fire are cited as group influences.
Songs in their repertoire include such standards as “Uptown Funk,” “So Very Hard to Go,” “Saturday in the Park” and “September.”
This show begins at 6 p.m. Admission is $5. But that gets you into both shows.
River Divide sure to unite fans at Music in the Park
By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer
By
day, their lives border on the routine. Steve Michaels maintains 3D printers. Cal Runia designs, builds and sells zip lines. Rod Walker works in a hospital as an audio-visual manager.
Dale Mayuiers teaches electrical linemen and engineers.
It’s during their off hours that their lives lean toward the exciting. For that’s when the quartet morphs into River Divide. And their fan base is such that the band is booked some 100 times in 2024. That’s roughly one performance every three days.
One of their 100 concerts is tonight, Wednesday, July 24. River Divide takes the stage at 6:30 p.m., Main Street Park, Monmouth. Admission is free.
It takes some wrangling to accommodate everyone’s personal and professional lives. But wrangle is what River Divide does.
“Our personal schedules are filled well ahead into the coming year. At the most we may have two or three weekends that we can devote to ourselves. But the one thing that we share is a deep and abiding love of playing music,” Mayuiers said.
“While it’s a grueling schedule, we wouldn’t change a thing. Performing for festivals and events … is honestly the best part about being a musician.”
It also helps that last year’s show proved memorable.
“Throughout the evening, from the moment we parked to the time we had to leave for home, we felt like we were amongst old friends,” he said of the reception.
“Everyone was so incredibly kind and generous.”
Mayuiers also praised the park’s setting, stage and sound system as being “top notch.”
“I’m not sure many will remember, but a group of children came on stage to dance with us,” he said.
“We loved every minute of it.”
Other lingering memories had nothing to do with the 2023 concert, such as Main Street Ice Cream. The band also took the scenic route when they left town, checking out Western Oregon and the city’s neighborhoods along the way.
River Divide is flexible when it comes to finalizing its set list.
“Prior to taking the stage we tailor our list of songs to fit what we think the audience wishes to hear,”
Mayuiers said.
But nothing, as they say, is written in stone. Not even a seasoned band’s set list.
“During a performance we may call out changes depending on the reactions of the audience,” he added.
“In that way we ensure every event is different and fresh.”
River Divide picks and chooses from more than 200 party-tested songs when compiling a set list. These songs represent a cross-section of musical genres. So it’s not necessarily coincidental if they happen to play one of your favorites.
“We love all types of music, rock and roll, country, blues, jazz, classical, and even old tunes from the 40’s and 50’s. We always pay close attention to the feedback we receive,” Mayuiers said.
The chosen few share at least one criteria.
“To make our set list a song must be capable of encouraging people to either tap their foot or get up and dance,” he added. No problem if you haven’t heard your favorite. The band plays requests.
A River Divide show features good-time sound, on-stage energy and tight harmonies.
“Time and time again we see faces light up and smiles break out the moment we play the first notes of a song,” Mayuiers said. “Our performances include tunes that you have always loved and tunes that bring back fun memories.”
There are tells as to when the band is in sync with its audience.
“Musicians, good musicians, develop a sixth sense when it comes to connecting with their audiences. Although we may appear to be having a carefree time on stage, we are actually listening intently to one another and are watching the crowd,” Mayuiers said. “All bands love it when people dance. But we also keep an eye on those who are singing along with the songs or are tapping their feet. In that way we know we have made a connection and will work to strengthen the bond between the band and the audience.”
Band members are true to their own self-interests as well. The power of music, the one thing that helps keep them coming back for more - hectic schedules and all - is that their love for it only strengthens with time.
“(Music) gives as much to the artist as it does to those who listen to the songs,” Mayuiers said. “Even though we each started playing our instruments back in grade school, every performance fills us with an even stronger desire to do it again and again. It is the mystery and beauty of music.”
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
River Divide returns to Monmouth and its Music in the Park series tonight (Wednesday, July 24). The concert, which begins at 6:30 p.m., is at Main Street Park. Admission is free. Band members (not in order) are Steve Michaels, Cal Runia, Rod Walker and Dale Mayuiers.
PHOTO BY BY JOSHUA RIVERA
Taken by the Sky, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band, performs at 8 p.m. July 26 at Riverview Park in downtown Independence. Admission is $5 per person. Band members are (bottom from left) Lawrence Orleck, Jessa Campbell and Colin Hogan; and (top row from left) Cheo Larcombe, Aram Arslanian and Brian Link.
PAGES OF THE PAST FLASHBACK
50 years ago
Jul. 24, 1974
Dallas girls win district competition Honor came to the six-member Rally Squad team of Dallas High School when it was named the District Champion Squad at the National Cheerleaders Association Clinic conducted at Lewis and Clark College in Portland. The Dallas rally girls won over 106 squads which attended from Oregon, Washington and Idaho and now become eligible for consideration for the National Championship. Members of the squad are Jan Callier and Rise Tuttle on last year’s varsity squad, Beth Sapp and Jeannie Sweet of junior varsity squad, and two new members, Kim Duncan, and Cindy Rettler.
Rainfall sets July record endangers grass seed crop Rain, normally considered a blessing to valley crops, is becoming a problem to many grass seed growers in the Willamette Valley. On July 18, the weather bureau records indicate July is the
wettest since 1916. Record or not, the rain is causing great concern to valley seed growers. Continuous moisture causes the seed to germinate in the windrow and with warm moist weather the straw gathers mold which can effect the germination of the seed.
Alumni Football
Dallas area football fans are going to be treated to an extra contest this year - the first annual Dallas Central Alumni Football game at Dallas High School Saturday, Aug. 17. Several Dallas and Central High School graduates have already signed up for the contest, but more participants are always welcome.
40 years ago
Jul. 25, 1984
New plaza breaks ground Developers and businessmen were among the crowd Tuesday at a ground-breaking ceremony for the new Central Plaza Shopping Center on Monmouth Street in Independence. According to Independence city manager Lloyd Halverson, the new shopping center will be
anchored by a new Sprouse Reitz store and a renovated Roth’s IGA Foodliner. The $3 million investment developed by Independence businessmen, was also assisted by a $784,000 Urban Development Action Grant and a loan from Citizens Savings & Loan FC improves water system
The city now has two times as much water available as it
did before since the completion of work at its reservoir at Camp Kilowan. The city reservoir, located southwest of town, was deepened and reshaped recently by Wildfang Construction of Independence. In addition to enlarging the holding facility, wooden pipe in the dike was replaced with steel, eliminating the last wooden pipe in the water
system. The dike was also widened and heightened.
Senior boys take 2nd after winning fivw straight
The Dallas Senior Boys baseball team went further than anyone could have expected, but six games in six nights finally took their toll on Saturday. That was the day Keizer topped the upstart Dallas team, 14-5 to advance
Jul 24-31 Answer key. Puzzles can be found on page
The proposal aims to narrow district funding gaps caused by rising costs and an end of extra federal funding in September
By ALEX BAUMHARDT Oregon Capital Chronicle
With Oregon’s public schools staring down a fiscal cliff this school year as the historic federal investment from the last few years expires, Gov. Tina Kotek is proposing changes.
She’d like to help schools keep up with rising costs in the years ahead by updating the way schools are funded.
She estimates that those changes would bring a $515 million boost to the State School Fund during the 202527 school years.
The state’s 197 school districts have spent nearly all of their portions of the $1.6 billion in federal COVID relief money awarded to the state since 2020. The money expires in September and with it, some of the services, programs and staff that it has paid for.
“Across the country, school districts are facing budget shortages caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief dollars, declining enrollment, increasing costs due to inflation and many other factors,” Kotek said in a news release Wednesday announcing the changes. They come amid growing calls for funding help from districts. After teachers in the state’s largest district, Portland Public Schools, went on strike for more than a month last fall – in part because of low pay and poor
working conditions – Kotek vowed she would review school funding and compensation issues in Oregon. Leaders in other big districts also issued warnings about their dire budget predicaments following the strike, and in May, several superintendents released a video calling school funding in the state a “crisis” as they explained their decisions to cut hundreds of jobs to keep schools solvent. They implored the Legislature to increase education spending.
“This is a terrible and devastating, heartbreaking moment for us,” SalemKeizer Public Schools’ Superintendent Andrea Castañeda said in the video, “and it is not one we’re using to levy blame. It’s one that we’re using to ask for help.”
Morgan Allen, deputy executive director of the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators, said it was “hugely positive.” Emielle Nischik, interim executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association, called it a good start.
“The essential work we do for students has to be tied to adequate and reliable funding,” Nischik said in an email. “This doesn’t fix our funding challenge, but it will facilitate a more honest State School Fund debate in the Legislature.”
Years of underfunding
During the long legislative session in 2023, lawmakers passed a $10.2 billion school funding package, the largest public K-12 education budget ever allocated in Oregon. Of that, more than $8.8 billion went to the State School Fund, which pays for the bulk of district budgets.
enough following years of underfunding and rising costs due to inflation. Legislators have historically not fully allocated to schools the amount recommended by the state’s Education Quality Commission, which is tasked with ensuring Oregon operates “a system of highly-effective schools” and presents a proposed budget to the governor and the Legislature every two-years.
Oregon school funding has further been stymied by two voter-approved ballot measures passed in the 1990s that have capped the state’s ability to tax property to fund schools. School funding from property taxes dropped by two-thirds in the following years, with the Legislature drawing a greater share of funding from the state’s general fund, which is needed for myriad services in the state.
Officials from various education groups in Oregon expressed relief and gratitude over Kotek’s announcement.
Oregon’s 197 school districts have spent nearly all of their portions of the $1.6 billion in federal COVID relief money awarded to the state and are dealing with large budget shortfalls following years of underfunding. See CHAGES, page B3
But school leaders afterwards said that was still not
This week’s flashback is from July 25, 1984: Community volunteer Pam Young teaches a cooking class. Eagerly watching are Jennifer Young, John Houck and Bobby Jo Young.
PHOTO BY GETTY IMAGES
PUBLIC RECORD
Information for the report comes from law enforcement agencies. Not all calls for service are included. The status of arrests reported may change after further investigation. Individuals arrested or suspected of crimes are considered innocent until proven guilty.
Dallas Police Department
Thursday, July 11
• At 8:16 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving while suspended and failure to obey a traffic control device.
• At 8:37 a.m., Christopher Slyh was lodged at Polk County Jail on a state-wide warrant and was cited for driving while suspended and driving while uninsured.
• At 11:21, a vehicle versus pedestrian accident was reported on Fir Villa Road. The pedestrian was transported to Salem Hospital Emergency Department.
• At 1:44 p.m., a report of a dog in a vehicle on Washington Street. The inside of the vehicle was 120 degrees. Evan Mace was cited for animal neglect.
• At 7:16 p.m., a report of an intoxicated driver at Walmart. An officer found the driver was driving intoxicated passengers home.
• At 8:01 p.m. Tysandra Gillis was arrested and charged with theft 3 on Dimick Street.
Friday, July 12
• At 12:19 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Juniper Avenue. It was a verbal only disturbance.
• At 2:14 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Godsey Road. Both individuals were intoxicated, and it was a verbal only disturbance.
• At 2:15 p.m., a report of a theft of two green bags of cans on Walnut Avenue.
• At 2:38 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Washington Street. A solicitor was going door to door. An officer informed them of the need for a permit and they left.
• At 3:02 p.m., David Howard was lodged at Polk County Jail on a Dallas municipal warrant.
• At 4:05 p.m., a report of a theft of a purse on Court Street. Further investigation is needed.
• At 8:41 p.m. Dillon Stuhr was arrested on Heath Court and charged with harassment.
Saturday, July 13
• At 6:11 a.m., a report of theft on Maple Street. The subject was going through his bicycle collection and loading them on his car.
• At 9:39 a.m., a report of an open door on Lewis Street. An officer cleared the apartment and the resident stated nothing seemed to be disturbed.
• At 12:59 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 56 mph in a 25-mph zone on Miller Avenue.
• At 4:39 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 40 mph in a 25-mph zone on Miller Avenue.
Sunday July 14
• At 12:24 a.m., someone lodged a noise complaint on Ellendale Avenue. The resident and friends were asked to lower their music and voices.
• At 9:28 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Westwood Drive. Further investigation is needed.
• At 10:26 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 40 mph in a 25-mph zone on Miller Avenue.
• At 10:35 a.m., a report of a suspicious person on Kings Valley Highway. Kimberly Fouse was arrested and charged with offensive littering and lodged at Polk County Jail.
• At 11:45 p.m., a report of a theft of an E-bike on Ellendale Avenue.
Monday, July 15
• At 3:49 a.m., a noise complaint of a dog barking excessively on Hankel Street. The owner was cited for unnecessary noise.
• At 6:06 a.m., a noise complaint of a dog barking on Joseph Lane. The owner took the dog inside the house.
• At 12:23 p.m., a report of harassment on Bridlewood Drive. The complainant reported yard garbage and trash thrown on their yard by a neighbor.
• At 7:38 p.m., a unhoused person was cited for criminal trespass on Ellendale Avenue.
• At 9 p.m., Jacob Tunget was lodged at Polk County Jail on a parole violation.
Tuesday, July 16
• At 1:13 a.m., a report of a fight on Jefferson Street. It was a noise disturbance only, no fight.
• At 7:55 a.m. Cameron Redding was lodged at Polk County Jail on a parole violation.
• At 10:27 a.m., a motorist on Eubanks Street was cited
or revenue streams proposed alongside them.
for driving while suspended, driving uninsured and was warned for speeding.
• At 1:42 p.m., a report of an oversized log truck taking out power lines and damaging several vehicles on Jefferson Street. The responding officer was unable to locate the vehicle.
• At 2:11 p.m., a report of a disturbance on Alexander Drive. It was a verbal disturbance.
• At 4:23 p.m., a motorist on Walnut Avenue was cited for driving while suspended and driving. They were warned for illegal alteration of a license plate and a 2023 sticker which did not belong was seized.
Tuesday, July 17
• At 4:11 a.m., a noise complaint of a party in the parking lot on Elmwood Drive. Four people were contacted and asked to keep the noise level down.
• At 8:16 a.m., a motorist on Ellendale Avenue was cited for using a mobile device while driving.
Independence Police Department
Thursday, July 11
• A motorist was stopped for no license plates on 13th Street. Kevin Chavez was arrested on an outstanding warrant and a parole violation.
Friday, July 12
• At 9:14 a.m. during a welfare check, it was discovered that guns were stored in a felon’s home. The guns were seized, and Nicholas Collins was cited for a felon in possession of a weapon.
• At 10:04 a.m., a motorist was cited for cell phone use while driving and warned for not having proof of insurance in the vehicle and not updating address with DMV.
• At 9:18 p.m., an officer was informed Sergio Jimenez was at Riverview Park where he had previously been excluded from. Jimenez was drinking alcohol in the park and was taken into custody and charged with trespass 2.
Saturday, July 13
• At 9:37 a.m., a report of a vehicle vs. pedestrian hit and run on Monmouth Street. There were no injuries and the driver is unknown.
• An officer received a call that a marijuana shop had shredded a medical marijuana card. After reviewing video footage and interviewing
employees, Matthew Cody Frinks was cited for initiating a false report and was given a trespass notice from the business.
• At 1:56 p.m., an officer received a call that Michael VanDyke Steifer was reporting his phone stolen by his girlfriend. During the investigation, the officers developed probable cause for assault and Steifer was arrested and charged with assault 4.
• At 9:50 p.m., a report of people smoking marijuana in their car on F Street. An officer contacted them and warned them against smoking marijuana in public and that if they drove, they would be arrested for DUII (driving under the influence of intoxicants).
• At 10:22 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 17 mph over the speed limit on Main Street.
Sunday, July 14
• At 3:17 p.m., a motorist was cited after driving past an officer going fast enough to shake the car, then braked quickly and was still over the speed limit on radar on Independence Highway.
Monday, July 15
• At 5:46 a.m., a report of a physical domestic disturbance on Evergreen Drive. After an investigation, Aiden C. Chatlovsky was arrested and charged with felony strangulation and harassment.
• At 11:26 a.m., officers responded to a report of a hit and run to a vehicle in a parking lot. Jonathon Samuel Odom was cited for failure to perform the duties of a driver.
Tuesday, July 16
• At 2:30 a.m., while performing an area check of the sports park and boat launch, an officer came upon a van. Aaron Eugene Tonole gave a false name and was arrested on an outstanding warrant and charged with giving false information to a police officer.
• At 1:01 p.m., a report of theft on Monmouth Street. The suspect was known and was cited and released for theft 3.
Wednesday, July 17
• At 10:23 a.m., a report of fraud on Monmouth Street. The complainant had been the victim of a phone scam of an individual claiming to be a Linn County police officer.
• At 3:31 p.m., officers responded to a report of shots fired during a domestic dispute on Williams Street. Frances Deone Carrillo was
arrested and charged with attempted murder 2, unlawful use of a weapon, endangering another person and menacing.
Monmouth Police Department
• Matthew Brown, 46, was arrested July 12 and charged with a release agreement violation.
• Miguel Mendoza Zavala, 32, was arrested July 14 on two outstanding warrants.
• Scott Best, 48, was arrested July 17 and charged with probation violation.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office
• Jose Juan Arzola Ortega was arrested July 17 and charged with post parole supervision violation (robbery 3).
• Solomon Bejiko was arrested July 18 on two warrants for probation violation (robbery 3, assault 4).
• Scott Benton Best was arrested July 17 and charged with probation violation (weapon use).
• Ivan Carmona was arrested July 16 and charged with post prison violation (burglary 2).
• Aiden Christopher Chatlovsky was arrested July 15 and charged with strangulation (domestic violence) and harassment (domestic violence).
• Michael James Compa was arrested July 19 and charged with criminal trespass 2 and post prison violation (sexual penetration 1).
• Jacob Paul James was arrested July 16 and placed on hold for Benton County (criminal mischief).
• Trey Alexander Lewis was arrested July 16 and charged with four counts of probation violation (strangulation, harassment and two counts of assault 4).
• Fabian Lopez Delgado was arrested July 19 and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant.
• Gregory George Norwest Jr. was arrested July 13 and charged with computer crime, theft 3 and identity theft, and was placed on hold for Yamhill County (failure to appear - criminal mischief 2, theft).
• Robert John Packard was arrested July 17 and charged with criminal driving while suspended/revoked, and placed on hold for Clackamas County (failure to appear - felony driving while
suspended) and placed on hold for Multnomah County (attempted elude, driving while suspended).
• Logain Talmon Richert was arrested July 18 and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant.
• Francisco Antonio Solorio was arrested July 16 and charged with probation violation (burglary 2).
• Jerry David Tallmon was arrested July 17 and charged with criminal driving while suspended/revoked and felon in possession of a weapon (restricted).
• Pacifica Malotumau Tamanuvao was arrested July 14 and charged with menacing (domestic abuse), two counts of assault 4 (domestic violence) and unlawful use of a weapon.
• Aaron Eugene Tonole was arrested July 16 and charged with false information to police officer and was placed on hold for Linn County (driving under the influence of an intoxicant).
• Jacob Allen Tunget was arrested July 15 and charged with probation violation (strangulation).
• Drew Dean Warren was arrested July 16 and charged with post prison supervision violation (child sex abuse).
• Michael Ray Watkins was arrested July 16 and charged with post prison violation (unauthorized use of a vehicle) and failure to appear (driving while suspended).
• Frances Deone Carrillo was arrested July 18 and charged with attempted murder 2, recklessly endangering, unlawful use of weapon, and menacing (domestic violence)
• Gennavieve Rae Hubbard was arrested July 16 and charged with failure to appear (unauthorized use of a vehicle) and was placed on hold for Washington State (contempt of court).
• Kirbie Lynne Hulsey was arrested July 15 and placed on hold for U.S. Marshals (possession of drugs with intent to distribute).
• Geraldlynn Kapualani Peterson was arrested July 18 and charged with post prison violation (elude police).
• Sarah Har-Leann Pond was arrested July 18 and charged with post prison violation (hindering) and was placed on hold for Marion County.
• Brenda Gail Stites was arrested July 15 and charged with two counts of driving under the influence of an intoxicant and unlawful possession of methamphetamine.
Gov. Kotek proposes changes to Oregon school funding
From Page B2
Sen. Michael Dembrow, D-Portland, chair of the Senate Education Committee and the Statewide Educator Salary Task Force formed by the Legislature in 2023, said improvements to the State School Fund are desperately needed. But he said he’s concerned about where the additional money will come from with no new tax increases
“It’s an open question as to what else in the budget might have to be cut in order to bring in this extra half a billion dollars,” he said.
“Personally, I worry that it could come from higher education, which is already very much underfunded.”
Proposed changes
The first change Kotek proposes to the State School Fund is to give schools 49% of their allocated budget in the first year of the two-year budget cycle, and then the remaining 51% in the second year, rather than splitting
them evenly each year. She said this would help boost funding in subsequent twoyear budgets since they are based on the amount allocated for the second year of the previous education budget. This would also help schools cover expenses that might be higher by the second year of a two-year budget. This change would give districts at least $217 million more in their 2025-27 budgets, Kotek’s advisers estimate.
The second proposed change would involve data the state uses to project future compensation. By narrowing the data the state uses for its projections – using the last 10
years of salary data instead of 20 – about $500 million would be added to the money available to schools to hire teachers and classified and administrative staff in the 2025-27 budget.
Lastly, Kotek proposes that the Legislature incorporate annual changes in local property tax revenues. Historically, the Legislature has only taken into account revenue from the first year of a biennial budget when considering what to allocate in the next budget. This limits the state’s ability to send schools more money if property tax revenues rise during a year that’s not counted.
By accounting for local revenue changes every year, state officials could bring in an additional $55 million to the State School Fund for the 2025-27 school year, Kotek’s office estimated.
“The governor said she was committed to this, and she is showing that she is,” Dembrow said of the latest changes. “Looking at how this gets funded in her budget, which will come out in December, will be really interesting to see, because obviously that’s where the proof in the pudding will be.”
Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle. com.
Read the original article online at https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/07/19/ gov-kotek-proposes-changesto-oregon-school-funding-andhalf-billion-dollar-boost-innext-budget/.
Dallas hosts Pickleball Club Tournament
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PHOTOS BY SMY PHOTOGRAPHY
19-21.
PUBLIC NOTICES
PCIO24-3019 Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice Downtown Storage and Warehouse located at 889 Liberty St NE Salem OR 97301 intends to hold a sale to sell the property stored at the Facility by the below list of Occupants whom are in default at an Auction. The sale will occur as an online auction via bid13.com on 8/13/2024 at 10:00AM. Alisia Schrader unit #A1085; David J Noyes unit #A2085; Donald Goure unit #A3007; Sean A Kendrick unit #A3034; Aaron Huffman unit #A3059; Lashawna D Markson unit #A3064; Kelly Hronek unit #A3071; Larry Lucas unit #A4230. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
PCIO24-3017 NOTICE OF UPCOMING PUBLIC HEARINGS CENTRAL
TALMADGE PLAN On Monday, August 5, 2024 (7:00 pm), the Independence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the Central Talmadge Plan. The plan articulates a framework for the future development of the area around Central High School and the Central Plaza Shopping Center and specifies desired future land uses, necessary transportation improvements and strategies to create places for individuals to gather. Comprehensive Plan changes and code revisions to implement the plan will be considered as part of a separate code amendment and public hearing process. Details about the changes are available at www. ci.independence.or.us/ central-talmadge-plan. If the Planning Commission votes to recommend that that City Council approve of the document, the Independence City Council will consider the recommendation during a public hearing on September 10, 2024. The Council hearing will start shortly after 6:30 pm. Public Hearing Locations: The public hearings will occur at the Independence Civic Center at 555 S. Main Street, Independence, OR 97351. The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations, should be made at least 72 hours in advance of a meeting to Karin Johnson, City Recorder, 503-838-1212 / TTY: 800-735-2900. The City is an Equal Opportunity Provider. Information Available: Information about the plan is available online. Paper copies of the materials are available for inspection at no cost at the Independence Civic Center. Staff reports for the proposal will be available at least seven days prior to the hearings. Physical copies of the documents may be obtained from the City for a minimal cost. Submittal of Testimony: Anyone wishing to present written testimony may submit the testimony up to and at the public hearings. Oral testimony may be provided at the hearings. Appeal Process: Individuals that would like to reserve their right to appeal the proposal should comment or submit a letter, along with any concerns, by the close of the hearings. Failure to raise an issue in person or by letter, or failure to provide sufficient specificity to afford the decision-maker the opportunity to respond to the issue, precludes the ability to raise the issue at a subsequent time on appeal (before the Independence City Council or the Land Use Board of Appeals). Staff Contact: If you have questions, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at the Independence Civic Center, 555 S. Main Street, Independence, OR 97351, (503) 837-1168, or fevander@ci.independence. or.us.
PCIO24-3014 Public Sale Rickreall Mini Storage 10255 Rickreall Rd Rickreall OR 97371 503-623-0900 ONLINE AUCTION Will Be Held On 8/24/2024 At www. storageauctions.com Units To Be Sold As A Whole ALL SALES CASH ONLY Alex Hester B-91
PCIO24-3009 In the Circuit Court of the State of Oregon for the County of Polk Probate Department Case No. 24PB05893 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Martino Trust dated August 31, 2011, and any Amendments, Delores Jean Martino, Deceased. Notice is hereby given that Pioneer Trust Bank , N.A. is the Successor Trustee of the Martino Trust dated August 31, 2011, and any Amendments. Delores Jean Martino, who died on February 9, 2024, is the settlor of the trust. All persons having claims against the trust are required to present them to undersigned Attorneys at: 5300 Meadows Road, Suite 200, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, within four months after the date of first publication of
Successor Trustee, Steffany S. Jastak, OSB No. 943383 Buckley Law PC. Attorneys for Successor Trustee 5300 Meadows Road, Suite 200 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 Tel (503) 620-8990; Fax (503) 620-4878; ssj@buckley-law. com. Published July 17, July 24 & July 31, 2024. PCIO24- 3001 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE - On 0815-24, at 10:00 am at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, located at 850 Main St. Dallas, OR. 97338, the defendant’s interest will be sold, subject to redemption, in the real property located at 147 NW DOUGLAS ST. DALLAS, OR. 97338. The court case number is 23CV34916, where AMERISAVE MORTGAGE CORPORATION is plaintiff, and THE ESTATE OF MARLENE ANN PADGETT; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF MARLENE ANN PADGETT; AARON HODGES; JAMES PADGETT; AND ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS 147 NW DOUGLAS ST, DALLAS, OREGON 97338 is defendant. The sale is a public auction to the highest bidder for cash in hand or cashier’s check made out to Polk County Sheriff’s Office. For more information on this sale go to: http:// oregonsheriffssales.org/
PCIO24-3003 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of: Anthony Louis Marx, Decedent. No. 24PB05217 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Shane A. Marx has been appointed personal representative of the abovecaptioned estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the Personal Representative, in care of the attorney for the Personal Representative at: 4742 Liberty Road S., #550, Salem, OR 97302-5037, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the lawyers for the personal representative. Dated and first published on July 10, 2024. Alexander M. Bluestone, OSB No. 183071, Alex Bluestone Law, LLC Attorney for the Personal Representative, 4742 Liberty Road S., #550, Salem, OR 97302-5037, 503.383.1304, alex@salemprobate.com. Published 7/10/24, 7/17/24 and 7/24/24.
PCI24-3022 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR LANE COUNTY FIRST TECH FEDERAL CREDIT UNION; Plaintiff, V. JORDAN ORTEGA; Defendant. Case No. 24CV09465 SUMMONS TO: DEFENDANT JORDAN ORTEGA IN THE NAME OF THE STATE OF OREGON: You are hereby required to appear and defend the Complaint filed against you in the above case within thirty days after the first date of publication of this summons, and if you fail to appear and defend, the Plaintiff will apply to the court for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The object of the Complaint and the demand for relief are: The Plaintiff seeks breach of contract for unpaid loan payments as described in the Complaint in the principal amount of $41,827.80, plus interest, attorney’s fees, and costs. NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear” in this case or the other side will win automatically. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer.” The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days of the date of first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the plaintiff’s attorney or, if the plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service on the plaintiff. If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 6843763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. HERSHNER HUNTER, LLP By /s/Logan J. Perrien Naccarato, OSB 203150 LNaccarato@ hershnerhunter.com Of Attorneys for Plaintiff P.O. Box 1475 Eugene, Oregon 97440 Telephone: (541) 6868511 First Publication Date: July 24, 2024
TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TS No.: 122466-OR Loan No.: ******7403
Reference is made to that certain trust deed (the “Deed of Trust”) executed by GREGORY S. LEWIS, A SINGLE MAN, as Grantor, to FIDELITY NATIONAL
TITLE INSURANCE, as Trustee, in favor of U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Beneficiary, dated 12/3/2018, recorded 12/7/2018, as Instrument No. 2018-014098, in the Official Records of Polk County, Oregon, which covers the following described real property situated in Polk County, Oregon: LOT 8, BLOCK 3, MADRONA HILL, POLK COUNTY, OREGON. (PLAT VOLUME 4, PAGE 46) APN: 238052 / 07308AC-00900 Commonly known as: 2225 TIMOTHY DR NW SALEM, OR 97304 The current beneficiary is: Nationstar Mortgage LLC Both the beneficiary and the trustee have elected to sell the above-described real property to satisfy the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust and notice has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). The default for which the foreclosure is made is the grantor’s failure to pay when due, the following sums:
Delinquent Payments:
Dates:
Total: 12/1/2021 – 7/1/2024
$50,747.62
Late Charges: $163.70
Beneficiary Advances:
$20,888.92 Total Required to Reinstate: $71,800.24
By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by the Deed of Trust immediately due and payable, including: the principal sum of $303,541.26 together with interest thereon at the rate of 4.625 % per annum, from 11/1/2021 until paid, plus all accrued late charges, and all trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs, and any sums advanced by the beneficiary pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust Whereof, notice hereby is given that the undersigned trustee, CLEAR RECON CORP, whose address is 1915 NE Stucki Avenue, 4th Floor, Hillsboro, OR 97006, will on 11/19/2024, at the hour of 9:00 AM, standard time, as established by ORS 187.110, AT THE MAIN STREET PLAZA, POLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 850 MAIN STREET, DALLAS, OR 97338, sell at public auction to the highest bidder in the form of cash equivalent (certified funds or cashier’s check) the interest in the above-described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time it executed the Deed of Trust, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of the Deed of Trust, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Deed of Trust reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than the portion of principal that would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, trustee’s and attorneys’ fees, and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the Deed of Trust at any time not later than five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the Deed of Trust, the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: 7/3/2024 CLEAR RECON CORP 1915 NE Stucki Avenue, 4th Floor Hillsboro, OR 97006 Phone: 858-750-7777 866-931-0036 Hamsa Uchi, Authorized Signatory of Trustee
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
APPEAL OF THE PLANNING DIRECTOR’S DECISION APPROVING A FOREST “TEMPLATE” DWELLING
The Polk County Hearings Officer will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal of the Planning Director’s decisions to approve a small tract template dwelling The subject property is approximately 23.1 acres in size and is located within the Farm/Forest (F/F) Zoning District.
The location of the hearing is handicapped accessible. Please advise the Community Development Department at (503) 623-9237, in as far advance of the meeting as possible, if you will need any special accommodations to attend or participate in the meeting.
A copy of the application, all documents and evidence relied upon by the decision maker, and applicable criteria are available for inspection at no cost and will be provided at reasonable cost. In addition, a copy of the staff report and memorandum provided to the Hearings Officer will be available for inspection at no cost at least seven days prior to the hearing, and copies will be provided at a reasonable cost, at the Polk County Community Development Department, Polk County Courthouse, 850 Main Street, Dallas, Oregon 97338.
Any person may submit written testimony, prior to or at the public hearing, to the Polk County Community Development Department. Oral and written testimony may be presented at the hearing
The hearing will be conducted in a manner which allows testimony in favor of the application testimony in opposition to the application, general testimony, and rebuttal by the applicant. Failure of an issue to be raised in the hearing, in person or in writing, or failure to provide sufficient specificity to afford the hearing body an opportunity to respond to the issue, precludes appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals on that issue.
Please include file number FORD 23-01 in all correspondences related to this application. Written comments received by 5:00 p.m. on August 2, 2024 will be included with the staff memorandum to the Hearings Officer. Comments received after that time, but prior to the hearing, will be provided to the Hearings Officer at the hearing
NOTICE TO MORTGAGEE, LIENHOLDER, VENDOR OR SELLER: ORS CHAPTER 2 15
REQUIRES THAT IF YOU RECEIVE THIS NOTICE, IT MUST PROMPTLY B E FORWARDED TO THE PURCHASER
PolkMarket AND CLASSIFIEDS!
MOMENTS IN TIME
• On Aug. 5, 1981, President Ronald Reagan began firing 11,359 air-traffic controllers who’d gone on strike two days before, after negotiations with the federal government to raise their salaries and shorten their workweek failed. His action, which many regarded as extreme, significantly slowed air travel for months.
• On Aug. 6, 1930, New York Supreme Court Judge Joseph Force Crater vanished on the streets of Manhattan, setting off a massive investigation that captured the nation’s attention and earned him the notable title of “the missingest man in New York.” Crater was declared legally dead nine years later. But although evidence surfaced in 2005 that he may have been murdered, the case was never officially solved.
• On Aug. 7, 1782, Gen. George Washington created the “Badge for Military Merit,” today better known as the Purple Heart, a decoration consisting of a purple, heartshaped piece of silk edged with a narrow binding of silver and the word “Merit” stitched in silver across the face, designed to be presented to soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.”
• On Aug. 8, 1975, the term “global warming” appeared in print for the first time in Wallace Smith Broecker’s paper “Climatic Change: Are We on the Brink of a Pronounced Global Warming?”
• On Aug. 9, 2010, Steven Slater, a JetBlue flight attendant, bade his job goodbye in astonishing style by sliding down his plane’s emergency escape chute while the aircraft was stopped near the terminal gate at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Slater claimed his exit was prompted by a rude passenger’s behavior, and became a media sensation.
• On Aug. 10, 1957, Dr. W.E. Peterson was confident that the invention of “protective milk” could cure illnesses including cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic fever and even the common cold. Peterson had been experimenting with injecting bacteria into cow’s udders to produce immunity in those who drank the milk, but it had not been tried out on large groups of people.
(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
TRIVIA TEST
By FIFI RODRIGUEZ
Puzzle answers on page B2
As Oregon counties prepare to launch new programs to reach people in addiction, some officials worry that the money does not meet the demands
By BEN BOTKIN Oregon Capital Chronicle
HILLSBORO – Oregon counties are mapping out new diversion programs to combat the state’s fentanyl crisis, an undertaking facing short- and long-term challenges to make it a success.
In Washington County, Oregon’s second most populous, officials plan to start the new program on Sept. 1, when House Bill 4002 takes effect and puts in place a new misdemeanor penalty for drug possession. Earlier this year, the Legislature passed the bill, which recriminalizes possession of small amounts of drugs and gives counties state funding to set up programs to guide people into recovery instead of jails.
But county officials say the state funding does not pay for enough outreach workers to respond countywide every time police interact with a person with illicit drugs. And after meeting with Washington County officials and recovery advocates on Thursday, U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas agrees that more is necessary – both funding and tools to increase the behavioral health workforce.
Salinas, D-Oregon, said she’s impressed with the county’s plans to reach people.
“I think that’s great, she said. “But once they want to scale up, you don’t want to see something succeed and not be able to then get
Oregon counties plan new recovery programs amid funding concerns
in there and actually make it more robust. That’s my fear. I will want them to go when they’re ready to go.”
Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton said the county’s plan is well-organized, with officials starting to work on it in April before the Legislature passed House Bill 4002. In 2019, the county started to plan a new addiction triage and treatment center, which will have locations in Hillsboro and Beaverton when the facilities open.
Washington County, which has about 600,000 people, will receive $1.34 million for its new deflection program. But officials said they would need millions more to build and run the diversion programs in the best way possible.
As it stands now, the gap in funding will lead to inconsistent experiences for drug users. In some cases, the police officer will do a “warm handoff” on the scene, which entails introducing the person to an outreach worker, also called a peer support specialist. In other cases, that won’t be able to happen because of a lack of money to fund the peer workers necessary for the entire county. Instead, a person will receive a citation and information about the deflection programs.
Barton said the warm handoff approach is the best at shepherding drug users toward recovery and he would like it to be used in every contact between police and drug users.
“I would love to do that everywhere in Washington County,” he said in an interview with the Capital Chronicle. “The Legislature, when they provided deflection money to different counties, they did not give enough money to Washington County.”
The Legislature allocated about $18.5 million total for counties to start deflection programs, including paying for staff and other administrative tasks. The programs are optional, and 23 of Oregon’s 36 counties have confirmed they will participate.
Multnomah County, Oregon’s largest, will receive nearly $4 million, while rural counties receive a minimum of $150,000.
Barton said Washington County should have received closer to $3 million, considering its population is about three-quarters the size of Multnomah County.
“That’s why we can’t start the warm handoff approach everywhere because we just don’t have the funds to do it,” Barton said. “But we’re going to approach the Legislature this coming session and tell them we need some more.”
Housing needs high
The money for counties is part of a broader array of $211 million in state funding lawmakers allocated this session for addiction treatment, court programs and recovery and supportive housing and residential facilities.
Deena Feldes is executive director of Transcending Hope, a nonprofit that provides supportive housing to people across the Portland tri-county region, including in Washington County where it has about 100 beds. Supportive staff help anchor people in recovery, by listening and giving advice when they are tempted to stray.
But they can’t meet the demand, with people on waitlists because there’s not enough housing, Feldes said.
“I’m optimistic about outcomes as long as we’re creating more treatment and more housing and more services because we don’t have
enough right now,” Feldes said. “”Hopefully all the funding is going to come through and be dispersed because we all know that Oregon is short of support systems for the people that are going to be accessing services.”
Federal efforts
Besides money, Oregon also needs enough professionals to provide treatment and other services for people in addiction, Salinas said.
Many don’t have contact with providers – or even police officers. A new Portland State University study found Oregon police officers in 2016 made drug possession arrests for only about 7% of the population that needs addiction treatment. This means police officers alone will not be the driving force behind the diversion programs, which also need peer support specialists who can do outreach, housing agencies and treatment providers.
On the federal level, Salinas said she is looking for ways to fund peer support specialists and eliminate barriers so more of them can enter the profession. Peer workers, or navigators, are people who have overcome addiction and other challenges and can relate to people considering recovery.
In February, Salinas introduced a bill in Congress that would require the federal government to recommend national procedures to train, certify and supervise peer workers, with flexibility for states.
Salinas’ visit in Washington County was one of five planned with counties in her district to discuss addiction treatment programs. Salinas also has met with officials in Marion, Polk and Clackamas
The site of Washington County’s planned Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment in HIllsboro. The center, when finished, will aid the county’s new diversion programs that offer treatment instead of jail to people in addiction.
counties and has a meeting planned for Yamhill County.
Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial
independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle. com.
Read the original article online at https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/07/19/ oregon-counties-plan-new-recovery-programs-amid-funding-concerns/.
