The Observer Paper 11-26-14 by NorthEast Oregon News

COLLEGE CROSS COUNTRY INSPORTS, 9A

EASTERN OREGON SENIOR DAMION FLORES CAPS CAREERWITH SECOND-PLACE FINISHAT NAIA NATIONAL MEET IN EDUCATION 5. SCHOOLS, 8A

IN BUSINESS 5.AG LIFE, 1B

ABRI DGEBElWEENEASTERN OREGONUNIVERSITYANDNASA

WINDFARMUTIUZINGEXEMPTION, DISTR ICTSREAPBENEFITS E1

SERVING UNION AND WALLOWA COUNTIE

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING

body president faces heat

percentthisyear SalesinNovemberand Deccmtbercanaccountforasmuchas30percen tof a retailer'sannual salesand mahe up nearly20percento ftheindustty'Iannual$3 2 trillion BlackFriday: What to expect?

W hat are people asking Santafor?

By Dick Mason

According to NRF surveys, more shoppers plan to get out on Black Friday every year. Survey data is not yet available for 2014.

Looks like a gift card. If not that, then expect a sweater, a book or an iPad.

ELGIN

Council: Finished project not good • Elgin CityCouncil unhappy with engineering work By Cherise Kaechele The Observer

ELGIN — The Elgin City Council is not pleased with the finished project as it stands for the Stella Mayfield School Safe Routes to School project. At a Monday night special session, councilors discussed closing out the contract with Becker General Contractor and with Anderson Perry and Associates. Their displeasure with the drainage flaws of the projectwas also addressed. The project, a new sidewalk installation with the intention ofhelping students travelsafely between their SeeElgln / Page7A

PLAN TOSHOP ON BLACK FRIDAY 80%

Giftcards/gif tcertificates

60%

Clothing or clothing accessories ~~

40% 20%

~+ ~ 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Hom e decor or home-related furnishings Personal care or beauty items

Qg Sporting goods or leisure items

50%

• 6% Other 40%

Gift-card spending continues to climb. According to NRF, the average gift-card buyer plans to spend $172.74 this year, up from $163.16 last year.

30% 20'/ 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

How big is Cyber Monday?

MONEY SPENT ONGIFT CARDS $35B

PLAN TOSHOP ON CYBER MONDAY 30

80%

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

TOTAL HOLIDAYSPENDING 20 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

$600B 500

And it's not just Cyber Monday. As a share of retail sales, e-commerce continues to climb.

400 300

SHOPPING ONLINEOVERALL As a percentage of all retail

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

How long can I wait to

ship my presents?

Via USPS: Dec.15via Standard PosC Dec. 20via First Class Mail tIr Priority Mail; Dec. 23 via Priority Mail Express. Seethe USPSwebsite for full schedule. Via UPS: Dec. 18 for UPS Ground; Dec. 22 for UPS 2nd Day Air; Dec. 24 for UPS Express Critical. See the UPS website for full schedule. '07 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Fun fact: According to the UPS website, the company anticipates delivering 585 million Is Small Business Saturday packages worldwide this December, an 11 catching on? percent jump from 2013 and a new record for According to the NRF survey, most adults the company. aren't sure whether they'll hit up local small Via FedEx (to arrive Dec. 25): Dec. 12 for businesses on Nov. 29. FedEx SmartPost; Dec. 17 for FedEx Ground and Home Delivery; Dec. 25 for FedEx PLAN TOSHOP "SMALL BUSINESS Sameoay. See the FedEx website for full SATURDAY" THIS YEAR schedule.

Yes

21%

27%

III

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' Ift

li ybe '5>2%

WE A T H E R

Business........1B Horoscope.....ee Sports ............9A Classified.......4B Lottery............2A State.............12A Comics...........3B Obituaries......3A Sudoku ..........3B Crossword.....ee Opinion..........4A Wauowa Life.. 6A Dear Abby .....eB Record ...........3A Wonderword... 3B

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43% Bo oks, CDs, DVDs or video games Consumer electronics or accessories Jewe lry or precious metal accessories

PLAN TOSHOP ONLINE ON BLACK FRIDAY

INDEX

RIDAY

TYPES OFITEMS PEOPLE WANT TO GETTHIS YEAR (More than oneanswer OK)

Fu l l forecast on the back of B section

Tonight

Thursday

42 iow

52/42

A shower late

Somesvn

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Thanksgiving Day trumps Black Friday

By Katy Nesbitt The Observer

ENTERPRISE — Temperatures in the single digits and snowstorms set the tone for this year's Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season. As the days grow shorter, Northeast Oregonians prepare to feastand festtoward the new year. For some, throwing a holiday feast and having ample presents under a Christmas tree is a struggle, if not impossible. Agencies, churches, organizations and individuals aware of the strain on neighbors at this time of year pull together to ensure there is enough to go around. In Wallowa County there are two time-honored institutions — the Elks Christmas Basket program and the Tree of Giving — that date back several decades. Historically, these have been well supported with cash, food and gift donations. Two hundred or more families and individuals receive gifts or holiday meals, and volunteers and donors regularly contribute their time and money each year. Expectation was that it would continue seamlessly as it always had. For decades, the Harvey family went into action by Halloween to organize the foodboxes and giftsin coordination with the Enterprise Elks Club. This year Barb Harvey, the brains and the brawn behind the operation, is passing off the job after years of devoted service. Cynthia Harvey, at a meeting Monday night to discuss how to keepthe projectgoing,said Barb Harvey had run out of steam and it was time to pass the torch. The word got out earlier this month that the program was in peril. cWe've had constantcallsfrom people asking what they can do to

for deals The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Thanksgivingcould be the best day to shop all year. An analysis of sales data andstore circulars by two research firms contradicts conventional wisdom that Black Friday is when shoppers can get the mostand biggest sales of the year. Turns out, shoppers will find more discounted items in stores that are open on Thanksgiving. For example, thereare atotal of 86 laptops and tablets deeply discounted as door buster deals at Best Buy, Wal-Mart and others on the holiday compared with just nine on Black Friday, according to an analysis of promotions for The Associated Press by researcher MarketTrack. And on the Web, discounts will be deeper on the holiday. Online prices on Thanksgiving are expected to be about 24 percent cheaper compared with 23 percent on Black Friday and 20 percent on Cyber Monday, according to Adobe, which tracksdata on 4,500 retail websrtes. The dataisthelatest proofthat retailersare slowly redefining the Black Friday tradition. It's been the biggest shopping day of the year for years, mostly because it's traditionally when retailerspullouttheirbestsales events. But in the last few years, retailers like the Gap, Target and Toys R Us have started opening their storesand offering holiday discounts on Thanksgiving to better compete with online rivals. "I wassurprised,butit really shifted one day," said Tamara Gaffney, principal analyst at Adobe, which is based in San Jose, Calif. Shoppers already are noticing the deals on Thanksgiving. Corey Grassell, 34,ofAppleton, SeeDeals / Page 5A

help," said Lacey McQuead, administrative assistant for the City of Enterprise. cWe felt strongly that we can keep this going," Elks club member Lee Daggett sald. So far, the Hurricane Creek Grange and the Red Hat ladieshave volunteered to wrap the boxes in which SeeBaskets / Page7A

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Call The Observer newsroom at 541-963-3161 or send an email to news@lagrandeobserver.com. More contact info on Page 4A.

HEALTH LESSONSTRAVEL TO CLASSROOMS

• Elks Christmas Basket program saved by community

Basket grogram gels regrieve

Acmrdt'ntrto theNationalRetailIrederation, holiday salesareecpecadtoincreoseby 4 1

• Controversy involves support of an online tuition increase Controversy is swirling around Eastern Oregon University student body president Philip Sebastiani as he approaches the midway point of his one-year term. Steps taken by Sebastiani are being questioned by some EOU students. The major points of contention are connected to Eastern's plan to raise tuition for online students. The controversy gained momentum Monday when student Matt Chatham launched a drive to have Sebastiani removed from office. Chatham is now circulating a petition calling for Sebastiani' sresignation or impeachment as Associated Students of EOU president. "I want to change the policy direction of ASEOU," Chatham said."I believe that SeeEastern / Page 5A

WALLOWA COUNTY

0 1 B S o e r 's an surviva i e

Student

The Observer

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2A — THE OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

LOCAL

UNION COUNTY

DAtLY PLANNER

EASTERN OREGON

Baker student

TODAY Today is Wednesday, Nov. 26, the 330th day of 2014. There are 35 days left in the year.

suspended from school By Chris Collins WesCom News Service

TODAY INHISTORY On Nov. 26, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered nationwide gasoline rationing, beginning Dec. 1.

ONTHIS DATE In1789, this was a day of thanksgiving set aside by President George Washington to observe the adoption of the Constitution of the United States. In 1842, the founders of the University of Notre Dame arrived at the school's present-day site near South Bend, Indiana. In1941, a Japanese naval task force consisting of six aircraft carriers left the Kuril Islands, headed toward Hawaii. In 1950, China entered the Korean War, launching a counteroffensive against soldiers from the United Nations.

Tim Mustoe/TheObserver

A construction site, located on Hull Lane near Imbler, collapsed Monday and injured two workers. Piles of wooden debris were laid out like match sticks in the center of the structure.

• Cause of Monday construction accident in Imbler still under investigation By Dick Mason The Observer

LOTTERY Megabucks: $2.6 million

2-6-13-21-30-38 Mega Millions: $61 million

10-11-29-47-56-4-x2 Powerbalk $80 million

23-49-53-54-57-35-x2 Win for Life: Nov. 24

2-36-48-53 Pick 4: Nov. 25 • 1 p.m.: 6-4-3-5 • 4 p.m.: 8-0-5-3 • 7 p.m.: 3-2-6-7 • 10 p.m.: 0-8-1-3 Pick 4: Nov. 24 • 1 p.m.: 2-2-2-8 • 4 p.m.: 0-2-3-6 • 7 p.m.: 0-9-0-5 • 10 p.m.: 1-2-3-1

ROAD REPORT Numbers to call: • Inside Oregon: 800-977-6368. • Outside Oregon: 503-588-2941.

GRAIN REPORT Soft white wheatNovember, $7.15; December, $7.15; January, $7.17 Hard red winterNovember, $7.64; December, $764; January, $7.64 Dark northern springNovember, $9.64; December, $9.64; January, $9.64 Barley — November, 142

IMBLER — Two construction workers were seriously injured early Monday afternoon when roof trusses collapsed on them while they were working on a project on the south edge of Imbler. One victim, Steve McKay, was taken to Grande Ronde Hospital by ambulance and then flown to St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho. McKay was listed in stable condition on Tuesday, according to a release from the Union County SherifFs Office. McKay's age and address have

not been released. A second victim was flown by Life Flight helicopter to Walla Walla, Wash. The man was later transported to Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. He was listed in stable condition on Tuesday. Emergency crews from the La Grande Fire Department, the Imbler Rural Fire Department and the Union County SherifFs 0$ce were dispatched to 65088 Hull Lane shortly before 12:30 p.m. The two men were part of a larger crew erecting a 60-by-80-foot machine shop with 18-foot walls. The cause of

the accident is being investigated by the sherifFs office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. "OSHA will be taking the lead in determining how this happened," said Capt. Craig Ward of the Union County SherifFs Office. Windy conditions prevailed in the Imbler area the afternoon of the accident. eWe are not ruling iweatherl out," Ward said. Contact Dick Mason at 541-786-5386 or dmason C lagrandeobserver.com. Follow Dick on Twitter C lgoMason.

COURT

oe i ersentence to Vears Observer staff

A North Powder man charged with a number of sex crimes was sentenced Monday to 15 years in prison. Joe Cordell Miller, 69, was sentenced following a settlement conference with Judge Brian Dretke at the Union County Circuit Court. Miller pled guilty to three counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, a Class B felony. Remaining charges in the case were dismissed following sentencing. The charges stem from sexual assaults that occurred between 2011 and 2013.

Miller and his wife, Faith Rosalind Miller, 55, were arrested April 25 by the Union County SherifFs Office on a secret indictment warrant charging the couple with numerous crimes, including rape, sodomy and sexual abuse. Both had previously pled not guilty to the crimes, but District Attorney Kelsie McDaniel said a settlement was reached Monday for Joe Miller. "Mr. Miller will be 84 years old upon his earliest release date," McDaniel sald. Sexual abuse is a Measure 11 crime,

meaning Miller will not be eligible for goodtime orearly release. McDaniel said the victim in the case participated in the settlement conference and negotiations. Faith Miller was also scheduled for a settlement conference Monday. As a codefendant, she faced the same charges in the April indictment. A trial date for her remains set for February although a settlement may come before. eWe didn't have a specific resolution yet," McDaniel said of the Monday settlement conference for Faith Miller. "Negotiations are ongoing."

BAKER CITY — A South Baker Intermediate School student is at home today as discipline for bringing a pellet gun to school Monday. The gun was not loaded and no students were hurt, said Betty Palmer, principal oftheschoolofabout320 students in grades 4-6. Palmer said she became aware of the gun about noon Monday. ''We responded and the child is not at school," she said. eWe are meeting to decidelong-term consequences." Baker Schools Superintendent Walt Wegener, in a press release issued Tuesday morning, said the investigation is confidential. 'The student has FERPA iFamily Educational Rights and Privacy Actl rights and additionally due-process rights," he stated."Our response to the juvenile student's actionsarenotpublic information and we must respect each student and family legally and cannot release further information. "All students are safe and no student was harmed," he sald. Palmer said a multidisciplinary team that includes members of the school district's safety committee, the child's teacher, herself and polic erepresentatives are meeting to decide how to proceed. ''We hope to have a decision fairly soon and I will meet with the parents," she sald. If the child's parents do not agree with the decision, which could include expulsion for up to one year under Oregonlaw,they have the right to appeal the decision to the superintendent and then finally to the school board, Wegener said. The board's decision would be final unless there is standing for the student and his parentsto take the case to court, he said. "Obviously we take this seriously," Palmer said."My utmost concern is for the safety of the kids of this school district."

— Bids provided bV Island City Grain Co.

COURT NEWSPAPER LATE? Every effort is made to deliver your Observer in a timely manner. Occasionally conditions exist that make delivery more difficult. If you are not on a motor route,deliveryshould be before 5:30 p.m. If you do not receive your paper by 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, please call 541-963-3161 by 6 p.m. If your delivery is by motor carrier, delivery should be by 6 p.m. For calls after 6, please call 541-9751690, leave your name, address and phone number. Your paper will be delivered the next business day.

QUOTE OFTHE DAY "Don't for heaven's sake, be afraid of talking nonsense! But you must pay attention to your nonsense." — Ludwig Wittgenstein, Austrian-born philosopher

Kassel pleads guilty except for insanity Observer staff

neth Dudley diagnosed Kassel The court ordered that with schizoaffective disorder, A man accused of assaultKassel be placed under the ing his grandparents with a according to court documents. jurisdiction of the Psychiatric knife in July pleaded guilty A relative said in an earlier Security Review Board for except for insanity to charges court hearing that he did not care, custody and treatment believe Kasselwa son me dica- for a maximum of 20 years. of assault in Union County tion for his mental health at Both vic tims recovered after Court Monday. the time of the assault. hospital stays. Scotty Allen Kassel, 25, was arrested July 25 after police were called to an assault in progress on Hot Lake Lane. %pmYear Round Kassel entered a guilty • Cut Trees " " except for insanity plea on • Wreaths one count of first-degree GB1'1BIldS Gift Certificates assault and one count of Available! second-degreeassault.Other Wallowa County assault charges and a charge llursery Uni o n County gg+ g I N URSERY 8 1 1 8 Fish Hatchery Ln. 10707 S. Walton Rd. of attempted murder were I LANDscAPING Enterprise Island City dismissed. EAsrERNQR EGQNNURsERY Nrirsei1r 42S S733 Nursery 962-0641 Landscaping 9620149 Lcii r7irrlrandscaping 541-9101905 An evaluation by Dr. Ken-

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C'r!s mer

EQN QNL

Starting at 11 am, Nov. 27th!

$1 299 Ham or Fresh Baked Turkey • Stuffing Mashed Potatoes & Gravy • Co rn Yams • Cranberry Sauce • Dinner R

Cup of Soup Slice of Pie (Pumpkin)

FLYI NG< TRAVELP

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

THE OBSERVER —3A

LOCAL

LOCAL BRIEFING From stag reports

Don't miss 3ingle Through 3oseph JOSEPH — The Jingle Through Joseph Holiday Bazaar is coming to the Joseph Community Center Friday and Saturday and Dec. 5-6. The bazaar will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Fridays, and 9a.m.to 4 p.m .Satur-

days. For sale will be a variety of gifts, decorations and greenery, including fresh Christmas wreaths and

formation, contact Charlette at 541-975-3176.

swags. Santa Paws will be at the bazaar on the second weekend; attendees may bring their pets and/or kids to have their picture taken with Santa.

Shop Delta Epsilon's Holiday Market

The annual Delta Epsilon Sorority Holiday Market Cribbage club plays will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday evenings Saturday at the Blue Mt. The Blue Mountain PegConference Center, 404 12th gers Cribbage Club meets St., La Grande. every Thursday at Denny's in The market will include La Grande. food, crafts and homemade Sign-up is at 5:30 p.m., and items. Admission is a play begins at 6. For more in- canned food donation to

the food bank.

Christmas tree raNes benefit library, school The Friends of the Union Carnegie Library's annual Christmas tree rafme is under way. This year, tickets are on sale for an angel-themed tree and a snowman-themed tree. Each tree comes with gifts and gift certificates.

Tickets are $1 each, $5 for six or $20 for 24 and may be

purchased at the library or

which features snow-scene

by calling 541-562-5807. The ornaments, birds and bird drawing will be held during the library's holiday open house Dec. 10. La Grande's Marian Academy is also holding a Christmas tree rafIIe. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six and are available from any Marian Academy student or by calling 541-

963-0861. Go to the school's Facebook page to view thisyear'stree,

feathers. The drawing will take place Dec. 16 at the Marian Academy Christmas program.

Urban renewal committee meets The La Grande Urban Renewal Advisory Committeewillm eetat4:45 p.m. M onday in La Grande City Council chambers.

OIIITUARIES Betty Ellen Conrad Wallowa Services for Betty Ellen Conrad, 84, of Wallowa, who died Monday, will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Christian Church in Wallowa. A reception will follow at the church. A full obituary will be published later. Bollman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Theo Grote Enterprise Services for Theo Grote, 94, of Enterprise, who died Friday, will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday at Joseph Cemetery. A full obituary will be published later. Bollman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Ellen Kay Hickey Perry Ellen Kay Hickey, 75, of Perry, died Monday at her

home. A full obituary will be publishedlater.Loveland Funeral Chapel & Crematory will be handling the arrangements.

A full obituary will be published later. Loveland Funeral Chapel & Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Minerva 'Min' Plass McLain

Cynthia Ann Trader La Grande

Elgin Cynthia Ann Trader, 50, of La Grande, died at her residence Thursday. A full obituary will be published later. Loveland Funeral Chapel & Crematory will be handling the arrangements.

Minerva"Min" Plass McLain, 93, of Elgin, died Thursday. Arrangements will be announced later by Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center.

John 'LacgAlbert Campbell Sr.

Paul Anthony Pagliarulo

Wallowa 1943-2014

Union Paul Anthony Pagliarulo, 86,ofU nion,died Monday at his residence. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 9 a.m. Friday followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at the La Grande Our LadyoftheValley Catholic Church. A reception will be held at the family's home in Union.

John"Jack"Albert Campbell Sr., 71, of Wallowa, died Nov. 22 at Grande Ronde Retirement Residence in La Grande. No services are planned at this time. Jack was born to Lonnie

Arrested: Evan Brown, 23, Elgin, was arrested Monday on a parole and probation detainer and also on charges of possession of meth. Arrested: Elizabeth Willis, 25, La Grande, was arrested Monday on charges of possession of meth. Arrested: Bryanna R. Eickstaedt, 29, La Grande, was arrested Monday on charges of possession of meth, tampering with drug records and two counts of possession of a Schedule 3 substance. Arrested: Jeffery Harrison Hull,30, Elgin, was arrested Monday on a Northwest states felony warrant charging failure to appear on an original charge of possession of meth. Arrested: Elizabeth Rose Morgan-Willis, 25, transient, was arrested Monday while lodged in the Union County Jail on charges of second-degree forgery and identity theft. Arrested: Lamon Hayes, 24, Portland, was arrestedTuesday bythe Multnomah County Sheriff's Office on a Union County warrant charging failure to appear on an original charge of fourth-degree assault.

Campbell on Sept.19,1943, in Washington, D.C.

Arrested: Quinten J. Stephens, 19, unknown address, was arrested Monday on a Union County statewide misdemeanor warrant charging failure to appear on original charges of

SH O W

T I M E S 5 4 1 -963-3866

la randemovies.com

THEPEHGUIHSOFMADAGASCARlPG-13i Fri, Sat8Sun:1:40,400,7:00(2D),9:10(3D) Mon-Thurs:4:007:002D 9:103D

LA GRANDE FIRE AND AMBULANCE

HUNGE RGAMESMOCKINGJAYlPG-13i Fri, Sati Sun:1:30,4:10,6:50,9:20 Mon-Thurs:4:106:509:20

La Grande Fire and Ambulance crews responded to four calls for medical assistance Monday and nine calls for medical assistance and a car fire Tuesday.

INTERSTE LLAR(PG-13l Fri Sat &Sun:I:00 7:30 klon-Thur: I:00 7:30

BIG HERO 6 lPGl

Fri,Sati Sun:4:200nly Mon-T hur:4:200nly

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For the bride of your life J.TABOR J E W E L E R S

1913 Main Street

B a Ler City

524-1999 ' MonJay — SaturJay 9:30 — 5:30

Wewish you a

Tis a dayfor..'. Gratitude

Sharing and remembering special the

people in our lives. ~

KOZA Family D e n tal

2502 Cove Ave., Suite D, La Grande <Mountain west Plaza 54 1- 9 6 3 - 4 9 6 2 • 0

•

Margie Flintoff Formerly of Elgin 1940-2014

Margie Flintoff; 74, of Gresham and formerly of Elgin, died Oct. 18 of complications ofleukemia. Margie was born July 19, 1940, in Iowa City, Iowa, the daughter of James and Dorothy iHerringl Vannoy. Margie was raised in Portland, lived in Elgin for more than 20 years and owned a motel and RV park in Cougar, Wash., for 10 years. Margie enjoyed camping, gambling, traveling and spending time with her family. She is survived by her significant other of 29 years, Jim Cunningham; children,

Rick Flintoff; Jim Flintoff, Treasa McCauley, Toni Hamilton, Flintoff

Tam m y Ham-

ilton and Kerri Burnham; siblings, Donna Neilson and James Vannoy; 17 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. Margie was preceded in death by her parents and brother, DonVannoy. Services were held Oct. 23. Bateman Carroll Funeral Home of Gresham was in charge of arrangements.

H. Bruce Stark La Grande H. Bruce Stark, 84, of La Grande, died Saturday at his home. Arrangements will be announced later by Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center.

James "Jim" Franklin Bohnenkamp

offensive littering and second-degree criminal trespass.

UNION COUNTY SHERIFF

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.lovelandfuneralchapel. com.

and Mary Ellen iKidwelll

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORT LA GRANDE POLICE

He later moved to Wallowa and was employed at Boise CascadeofElgin for 23years beforeretiring.Jack loved to fish and spend time in the mountains. He was a longtime member of the volunteer firedepartment and was a formerreserve policeoffi cer. Jack was also a member of the Eagles. He is survived by his daughters, Cheri Campbell of Elgin, Mary Ellen Blessing of Irrigon, and Stacy Johnson and husband Kirk of Elgin, son, John Campbell Jr. of Wallowa; brothers, Bruce Campbell and wife Della of Maryland, Jim Campbell and wife Stephanie of Deal Island, Md.; sister, Cecila Campbell of La Grande; seven grandchildren; and three nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Mary Ellen.

Care

James "Jim" Franklin Bohnenkamp, 91 of Island City, passed away at his residence on Friday, November 21, 2014. At his request, there will be no service. Jim was born June 15, 1923 to William Hal and Lillian Baker Bohnenkamp in La Grande, the middle child of five siblings. Jim attended Central and Ackerman schools and graduated in 1941 from La Grande High School, where was a three year letterman in football, including two years all-conference. He was a member of the only undefeated/ e united team in Oregon his senior year. He went on to attend Eastern Oregon Normal School (now Eastern Oregon University) where he played left guard and linebacker in football as a freshman. During his sophomore year with the war on, there were not enough men for a football team so he played basketball on the team which went on to play for the national title in Kansas City. He completed two years at Eastern, receiving a Jr. College Degree. In January of 1942, while attending Eastern, Jim enlisted in the United States Naval Reserves. After enlisting and finishing at Eastern, he attended the University of Idaho, Southern in the V-12 program from July 1943 to February 1944. He went on to attend Wellesley College and was then commissioned Ensign USNR. He was ordered to the USS Panamint ACG 13 as assistant Supply Officer in New York. Traveling through the Panama Canal, they proceeded to the Pacific Theater of Operations for the invasion of Okinawa on Easter Sunday, 1945. During this fierce engagement, a kamikaze pilot targeted their vessel, but for some reason at the last minute diverted his plan, apparently aiming for a larger target, but was shot down. In June of 1945, after being reassigned as Officer in Charge of a YF755 and enroute to join the Japan invasion, the war ended. The ship was then ordered to Shanghai, China, and he spent time anchored on the Wang Pu River until being discharged and sent home in 1946. Jim remained in the Naval Reserves until 1956, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant. After Jim's discharge from the Navy, he enrolled at Willamette University. Although his application for admission was too late, he was accepted in and allowed to enroll when the football coach heard he played football. He played left guard during his two years for the conference champion Willamette Bearcats. Jim graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1947 and returned to La Grande to work in the family hardware store until 1955, moving on to work for his brother, William Bohnenkamp Plumbing and Heating, until 1959 when Jim purchased the electrical side of the business, B Electric, as contractor until his retirement in 2002. It was while attending Willamette University that he met and then married Nancy Louise Preede in Bend, Oregon on September, 14, 1947. They resided in La Grande and had five children. After divorcing in 1969, Jim married Helen Phillips and divorced in 1987. Jim later married Dorothy Moore. Jim was active and busy from his childhood into his later life. He started skiing at age 6, and spent summers at Wallowa Lake where his duties were to keep the wood box full (using crosscut and bow saw and split with a hand axe) then he could fish and hike in the mountains. During his school years, he worked at the family store doing all sorts of odd jobs; unpacking freight, assembling toys, wagons, scooters and bicycles. When old enough, he completed deliveries, mopped and waxed floors and clerked on the store floor. As an adult, Jim continued to participate in sports through officiating, refereeing both football and basketball in the area for 25 years. He enjoyed contact with the younger generation along with the exercise. He also played an active part in the development of Anthony Lakes, serving as chairman on the Board of Directors of the Anthony Lakes during the years the lodge and chairlift were constructed. With no public transportation to the ski area, he purchased a school bus and drove it to the mountain, charging 25 cents a person to help get the kids and adults to the mountains. He also served as ski instructor and taught countless people to ski for many years. At the time ski equipment was not locally available, so he opened the Wee Ski Shop in his B Electric shop, located on the corner of Adams and 4th Streets. Jim was an avid golfer, receiving a Life Membership at the La Grande Country Club after 50 years membership. He was also a member of the American Legion Post ¹43, and was a member of the local BPOE for over 30 years. He loved the outdoors and could hardly wait for the various hunting seasons to open. Jim is survived by his wife, Dorothy; son, Jim and his wife Randi Bohnenkamp of Winston, Oregon; daughter, Barbara and her husband Steve Bertsch of Pleasant Hills, Oregon; stepson, Bob Moore of Milton-Freewater, Oregon; sister Mary Gene Dow of Portland, Oregon; sister-in-law, Betty Bohnenkamp of Kuna, Idaho; granddaughter, Brianna Bohnenkamp; grandsons, Nick Bohnenkamp, Jacob and Jackson Bertsch; step grandsons, Jeremy and Ryan Blankenship of Arlington, Oregon and numerous other relatives. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Hal and Lillian Bohnenkamp; daughters, twins, Jean Ellen and Jill Anne Bohnenkamp and Beth Marie Bohnenkamp; adopted son, Raymond Bohnenkamp; brother Bill Bohnenkamp; sister Lillian (Mitzi) Abel and brother, George Bohnenkamp. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.lovelandfuneralchapebcom.

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THE WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

SERVING UNION AND WALLOWA COUNTIES SINCE I666

The Observer

GUEST EDITORIAL

memo 1S OO

o news Editorial from The Bend Bulletin:

A new approach to measuring some carbon emissions is good news for Oregon's forests and biomass industry. An Environmental Protection Agency memo revealed last week that the agency is taking a more thorough look at the carbon emissions that come fromforestproducts.Ifthe new calculations survive into a final ruling, forest and biomass industry jobs could follow, along with better ways to thin forests and cut wildfire risk. As WesCom News Service reporter Andrew Clevenger wrote last Thursday, the positive news came in a memo to EPA's regional air directors from Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for the OKce ofAir and Radiation. She wrote the agency is considering information that shows some forest byproducts don't add to carbon emissions if the full context is considered. Waste products from logging are often burned onsiteifnogood alternativeexists,producing the same amount of carbon emission as if they were taken to a mill and turned into wood pellets. Making the pellets, however, has other benefits in energy production and job creation. Also, in a sustainable, managed forest, some of thatcarbon isreabsorbed by the trees.Thattips the balancein favorofbiomass over even relatively clean natural gas. The memo provides encouragement for the biomass industry, but also is likely to make forest thinning more feasible, with benefits for healthy forestsand fire control. It's heartening to see the EPA recognize the complexity of these factors in forest management and carbon emissions and see ways for apparently competing interests to work together. Oregon and other Western states need to find ways to put their natural resources to work to createjobsand products,butalso to clear overgrown forests and reduce emissions. This emerging understanding of the environmental efFects could help create the regulatory framework to make that possible.

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MYVOICE

oun nee stoacton ove M

ore than many other counties in Oregon, Union County has a vested interest in seeing state action to reduce poverty. Poverty is more common in Union County than in Oregon as a whole. New U.S. Census data shows that in 2013 one in five people in Union County lived in poverty, compared to one in six in Oregon. Bear in mind, it's not as if the state as a whole has good news to report with regard to poverty. In 2013, more than 640,000 Oregonians lived in poverty. That's more than the population of the city of Portland. If poverty were a city, it would be Oregon's largest city. The problem is not the lack of economic growth. On that front, Oregon has outperformed all but one other state forwellover a decade.Sincebottoming out in 2009 following the Great Recession, Oregon's economy has grown more than twice as fast as the national economy. And yet, despite four years of solid economic growth, poverty in Oregon was worse in 2013 than at the depth of the Great Recession. So what's the problem? The problem is that public policies — the rules that govern the economy — have not ensured that the state's economic gains are broadly shared. Instead, the gains have been concentrated in the hands of a few.

About the author Tyler Mac Innis is a policy analyst with the Oregon Center for Public Policy. My Voice columns should be 500 to 700 words. Submissions should include a portrait-type photograph of the author. Authors also should include their full name, age, occupation and relevant organizational memberships. We edit submissions for brevity, grammar, taste and legal reasons. Send columnsto La Grande Observer, 1406 5th St., La Grande, Ore., 97850, or email them to acutler@lagrandeobserver.com.

For over three decades now, the rules have favored the few at the expense of the many. Income inequality has soared to historic levels. And poverty remains all too common. Union County has a keen interest in seeing the enactment of public policies — new rules — that can begin to m ake headway in reducing poverty and spreadingprosperity more broadly. Though some of the more potent rules governing the economy are set in Washington, D.C., Oregonians can

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setpoliciesthatshape oureconomic outcomes. When Oregon lawmakers gather in Salem in February at the start of the new legislative session, they will have an opportunity to pursue policies that make the economy work better for all Oregonians. A top priority will be to raise Oregon's minimum wage. Among Oregon families with children living in poverty, about sevenout of10have atleastoneparent who works. In other words, most Oregon families in poverty are poor despite work. A boost to Oregon's minimum wage would provide these families greater economic security and more cash in their paychecks to spend at stores and businesses in your community. It will also be important for lawmakers to put into place new rules that make it hard for dishonest employers to cheat workers out of the wages they have earned. Too often employers commit wage theft by forcing workers to work off the clock, stealing tips or not paying them at all. We need new rules to limit wage theft. Finally, lawmakers need to find new resources to invest more in our schools and theother publicservicesthatcreate economic opportunity. It's important for all Oregonians that the rules that govern our economy createopportunityfor everyone.It'sparticularly important for Union County.

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Last week's poll question

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Comment of the week "Jack Howard's in. Write in candidate Bill Lindsley managed to get 20% of Sleepy Steve's votes - neither of which seems to be enough to turn the tide. Apparently the message isn't being received." — Trinity on TheObserver story Union County Courthouse: Conditional approval

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

DEALS

EASTERN

Hpljdgy ppll How much of your holiday

Continued from Page1A

Continued ~om Page1A

shopping have you already done? • None • Less than a quarter

Wisc., said he plans to shop for deals on Thanksgiving and bypass Black Friday. That's after he grabbed bargains last year on the holiday, including a washerdryer combination at Sears

E About half

More than three quarters • All of it

• Unsure 46%

for about $800, a 50percent discount. "I feel guilty for going out on Thanksgiving, but the deals are so much more attractive to me than on Black Friday," he says. But some industry watchers fear others won't shop on Thanksgiving, choosing to keep the day sacred. Those who wait instead to shop on Black Friday could wind up being disappointed with the leftover deals, they say. In fact, according to Deloitte Research's recent survey of shoppers, about two-thirds say they're not motivated to go out to stores Thanksgiving because it's important to be with family and friends.

"Shoppers could be disappointed and find that the hot items on their list are not in stock on Black Friday because of the early push by retailer s,"saysTraciGregorski, MarketTrack's vice president of marketing. She says she's conducting a survey of shoppers after the holiday shopping weekend to seehow retailersfared.eWe want to get shoppers' perception of these deals," she says. Most big retailers acknowledgethatthey're starting to offer deals on Thanksgiving that previously were reserved for Black Friday. Jeff Haydock, a spokesman at Best Buy, the nation's largestconsumer electronics chain,said thebestdeals become available Thanksgiving when its doors open at 5 p.m. For example, one of Best Buy's Thanksgiving specials

is a $899 55-inch LED Smart TV, the lowest price it has ever offered on a Samsung ultra-high definition TV of this size. That will be available on Friday — if supplies

THE OBSERVER — 5A

LOCAL

24%

Do you plan to do most of your shopping online, at stores, or both? • Only Online • Primarily online C Equally Primarily at stores • Only at stores • Unsure ss~

14%

19% 33% /

How much do you plan to spend this year compared to last year? •jtncrease • Decr e ase (Oifference — pct pfs) ( $100 $100to .'

Unchenged $500to ' $999

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a changeofleadership is necessary for this to happen." Chatham's petition was discussedata sometimes heated meeting of the EOU student senate Monday. Sebastiani said thatdespite the criticism directed at him, the session was productive. "It was a good meeting. It was good to hear student concerns and to be able to express my side of things," Sebastiani said. Chatham told EOU's student senate that he had collected40 signatures for his petition in two hours on Monday. The petition Chatham is circulating lists about a dozen complaints against Sebastiani. A major one involves his support of an increase in tuition for online students. Sebastiani supported a proposal earlier this year by EOU Interim President Jay Kenton to increase tuition for online students. The increase, put in place by Kenton earlier this fall, takes effect winter term. It will boostthe costoftaking

Source: Reuters

Graphic: Tribune News Service

last. "Naturally, more of the deals are being pulled into Thursday because our stores are open," says Haydock. Brian Hanover, a spokesman at Sears, which is opening at 6 p.m. Thursday, also says Thanksgiving specials spill into Black Friday. But the quantities for the 1,000 door busters are limited. They include Nordic Track treadmills for $699.99, at an

$800 discount, and a 36 percent savings on a Whirlpool laundry machine, regularly

priced at $549.99. "Itprobably behooves the customer to shop earlier on Thanksgiving," he says.

credit hour. The tuition increase has students like John ONeill very upset. O'Neill spoke out against the tuition increase at the Monday meeting of the ASEOU Student Senate. He was highly critical of Sebastiani' ssupport of the increase. He said at the meeting that the increase will cost him about an additional $225 per term. Chatham also addressed the tuition increase at the Monday meeting. He said Sebastiani should not have gone along with Kenton's tuition hike proposal. "He should have worked harder to find alternatives," Chatham said."He is in a position where he is paid to inform himself of alternativeproposalsto benefi tthe

AstsEO

Trm Mustoe/The Observer

Eastern Oregon University senior Matt Chatham, standing, speaks before Eastern's student senate on Monday. Chatham is circulating a petition calling for the resignation or impeachment of Eastern student body president Philip Sebastiani. student body." Sebastianisaid that despitethe increase,Eastern still has relatively low online tuition. He said that it will remain significantly lower than online tuition at Oregon Institute of Technology, Boise State University, Oregon State University, Southern Oregon University, Washington State University and Eastern Washington University. "Itkeeps uscompetitive. We still will be able to attract online students," Sebastiani said, adding that he would not have supported an increase of anything higher than $15 a credit hour. "If it had been any more,itwould have been a completely different story," Sebastiani said. Kenton proposed raising online tuition in an effort to boost on-campus enrollment. Sebastiani said he supportedthe tuition increase for the same reason. He said that online students would benefit by switching to oncampus classes. "Students do better academically on campus," Sebastiani said. The online tuition hike couldalsoserveto booststudent retention on campus, which would create a better campus atmosphere since more students would be

drawn to out-of-classroom activities. Waivers for the tuition increase will be granted to on-campus students who need to take a class in their major that is available only online. The waivers will be grantedfor theremainder of the 2014-15 academic year. Some had proposed that the waiver should have been grantedthrough the end of the 2015-16 academic year. Sebastiani advised against it. "It would not have been fair to on-campus students who never receive waivers when their tuition rises," Sebastiani said. Chatham is upset with Sebastiani' sdecision notto support an extension of the waiver.

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"I think it is not in the student's interest, "said Chatham, who is from California. Sebastiani said that granting waivers for the remainder of this academic year is good, however, because students did not have much warning of the online tuition increase. eiThe increase) is in the middle of the iacademicl year," Sebastiani said. The student body president said that if the push forhisremoval aspresident escalates significantly, he will hand the issue ofhis presidency to the chair of the student senate. The senate has the authority to remove the student body president.

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6A — THE OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

County prepares for holiday giving • Community Connection in Enterprise helps with a variety of winter needs including heat and food assistance during the coldest months of the year. By Katy Nesbitt The Observer

ENTERPRISEEach winter, the need for food and utilities assistance spikes, and Wallowa County looks to Community Connection in Enterprise for help. "There are such a varietyofneeds,"said Connie Guentert, Community Connection's Wallowa County manager. Federal programs help with food and heating assistance but fal lfar shortof meeting the need. Donations keep the food bank's shelves stocked, and cash donations not earmarked for specifi cprograms go

4, $'.e-

"We can useit when someone doesn't meet eligibility requirements but still (has) economic need. It allows us to have

flexibility to determine how to help them." — Connie Guentert, Community Connection Wallowa County Manager

into what Guentert tha t doesn't fit into t ime and the gas to calls their ministerial a specific box, and is d e l iver the wood," fund. completely volunteer- Guentert said. The fund, started run and supported Anoth e r big help l ' fgp P l ~ by local churches, is a by donations, is the fro m local ranchers are donations of catch-all from which fi r e wood program Community Connec- coordinatedthrough ground beef. "That's really tions can help people Community Connecwho don't fit neatly tio n and Wallowa help e d us out a lot," into a category. Resources. Guentert said. "Proewe can use it The past two tein is important. when someone weekends, volunYou h ave to have it doesn't meet eligibil- teers have gathered in your diet." .s' s Sesity requirements but a t t he county yard To f in dout how to still ihasl economic out s ide of Enterprise h elp out with food need," Guentert said. t o split and load and c a sh donations "It allows us to have wood into pickups for or to sponsor a famflexibility to deterdeli v ery around the il y for Christmas, m ine how to help coun t y . call Community Courtesy Photo "It's all run by them." Connection at 541Jason Lyman helps split wood for theWarm Hearts program that delivers firewood Another program vo l u nteers — their 426 - 3840. to those in need.

Holiday feasts and revelry begin in Watlowa Coun riving in rural Wallowa

D the other day, I came

across turkeys scuttling across the road, a reminder of the season to come. The planning started early forthe holiday string ofparties, feasts and revelry when the OKTheatre announced it would host the Shook Twins Nov. 23. I was giddy when I saw the marquee. I love the Shook Twins. When I saw the "Infamous Stringdustersu three years ago at the OK, I was smitten. What a fabulous theater right up the street. Two years ago, the Scout and I saw the Shook Twins at a venue about the same size as the Portland OK Theatre. They opened for mandolin-great David Grisman and they were wonderful. It was worth going just to see the girls. Sitting high up in the back of our hometown theater Sunday night I was giddy to find myself watching this fabulous band just blocks &om home. The first spring with the Observer Isaw aposterfora musician named Eric Taylor. Among his credits was songwriting for Nancy Griffith and Lyle Lovett. I had to interview him. My first question is my most oft-used opening line, "How did you know about Wallowa County?" Taylor said, 'What?u

CANYON NOTES KATY NESBITT "How did you come to perform in Wallowa County?" "Huh?" said Taylor. "Enterprise. Why are you playing in Enterprise?" I asked. Taylor has a fiiend who lives here who encouraged him to come play. Since then, he calls many locals his fiiends and makes Enterprise part ofhis Northwest tour most years. Last week I asked Laurie Shook the same question. She said she wasn't quite sure why they were playing the OK The band relies on a booking agent for their scheduling. For these girls, Wallowa County wasn't a foreign word. They were at JuniperJam in 2012,a Labor Day weekend festival at the Wallowa County Fairgrounds. This week as I made my rounds I asked people how they liked the show. During an interview, a source said he is longtime fiiends with the Shook Twins and got to visit them and watch two local favorites,JanisCarper and Carolyn Lochert, &om backstage. Portland-based Fruition made their way here the first time through the sug-

Wallowa Coun readies for e 2015 Big Read

gestion of Simon Tucker, a blues musician well familiar with Wallowa County as a JuniperJam alum and a regular on the Terminal Gravity porch on a summer's evening. Fruition has returned many times and has a following. Last year the Scout and I went to see them in Portland, and ran into a couple of other Wallowa County fans at the Wonder Ballroom. Even the OK Theatre's owner, Darrell Brann, has an interesting story how he got to Wallowa County — it was suggested he take a detour on ahis waybackto Maine from Seattle. His route to the county ended up being even more circuitous and long-lasting. He married a native woman with whom he plays music. Next month, his brothers will make the not-so-direct trek to join him on the OKTheatre stage as the Brothers Brann. Most years I plan a New Year's trip to Boulder, Cola., or Portland to see a band and celebratetheend oftheyear with music. While trying to choose who to see and where to go, Igota m essage that the OK Theatre is hosting a Seattle band, Down North. I can't stand the excitement — live music a few blocks &om home? Itdoesn'tgetany better than that.

• Month-long community event begins Jan. 8 at the Joseph Community Center with food and talk about novel By Katy Nesbitt The Observer

ENTERPRISE — With the year's passing soon comes anti cipation forthis year's Big Read, a monthlong community event organized by Fishtrap and sponsored by the National Endowment of the Arts. "Into the Beautiful North" is a novel by longtime fiiend of Fishtrap Luis Urrea, said Mike Midlo, Fishtrap program manager. ewe loved this book and Urrea has been a longtime fiiend of Fishtrap," Midlo said."Hestarted coming here before he was a famous writer." Urrea has been a speaker at Summer Fishtrap and is a compelling speaker, Midlo sard. Known for tackling difficult topics like the death of immigrants in the Arizona desert as depicted in"Devil's Highway," Urrea calls "Into the Beautiful North" his "beach book," he said. "It's a romp ofa read," Midlo said. Contrary to the attempt to escapeto a better life in America told in"Devil's Highway,""Into the Beautiful North" is a story of children going to America

to bring their fathers back home to fight the cartel that has takenover theirvillage. Inspired by the movie "The Magnifi cent Seven," 19-year-old Nayeli and three friends set off on an adventure to defend their town. Interestingly, "Into the Beautiful North" was chosen long before child immigration into the U.S. became a daily news story, Midlo said, but with the immigration issue a hot topic, it's a timely piece ofliterature. The Big Read kick-off is Jan. 8 at the Joseph Community Center. "The goalisto getpeople excited about the book," Midlo said. El Bajio Restaurant of Enterprise will serve traditional food. There will be a book giveaway, a short introduction and amap toretracethe children's'journey. The novel gives light to the micro-cultures that exist in the interior of Mexico, Midlo said "I think people will really ind itto be a fun and enf lightening book," he said. On Jan. 15 the OK Theatre will screen "The Magnificent Seven." Two guest

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Courtesy Photo

This year's choice for the Big Readis"Intothe Beautiful North" by longtime friend of Fishtrap, Luis Urrea. lectures are being scheduled as are two screenings of a companion story, "Underthe Same Moon,"at the Wallowa Senior Center and the Josephy Center in

Joseph. The Big Read Finale will feature a talk by Urrea and food from La Laguna Restaurant. Stay tuned for a complete line-up of Big Read events in early January. Fishtrap is Wallowa County's literary nonprofit dedicatedtopromoting clear thinking and good writing in and about the West.

johnstonshonoredfor longtime commitment to4-H • Married couple began leading 4-H clubs since 1967 Observer Staff

4-H members. Much of their contribution ENTERPRISE — Usually, is centered around the sheep those who work extra hard to help those around them industry. They coordinate the go unnoticed; theireffortis wool pool, a 4-H fundraiser, in the background supportwhich donates money to ing the accomplishments of cover expenses of the 4-H, others. donate awards for wool and This fall, a Wallowa Coun- livestock judging participants and are the beef and wool ty couplewas recognized for their nearly 50 years keeping superintendents for the Wal4-H avitalprogram. lowa County Fair. Perry and Donna Mae Perry Johnston serves on Johnston began leading 4-H the executive board for Wallivestock clubs and 4-H horse lowa County's Extension serclubs since 1967. vice and has been a judge for They have donated much several 4-H livestock shows of their time over the years around the country, judging all species oflivestock. encouraging and assisting The couple have kept 4-H the youth in the community to further their agricultural animals at their house and have providedtheirland and education as well as thoulivestock to host a livestock sands of dollars including funds for annual scholarships judgingtour for4-H memto covernational travelfor bers.

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They donated money and suppliestocover materialstobuild beefbarns and facilities on the fairgrounds. The Johnstons both grew up in Wallowa County and raise Angus beef and Corridale sheep. Their expertise in ranching was recognized by the Wallowa County Stockgrowers with awards for Grassmen of the Year in 1988 and Cattlemen of the Year in 2011. In 1991, they were given the Agricultural Leaders of the Year award by the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce. In 2012 they were recognized by the Wallowa County 4-H program for their45 years ofservice. They continue to be

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Submitted Photo

Donna Mae and Perry Johnston received an honor marking 45 years of 4-H work at the 201 2 Wallowa County Leaders' Awards dinner. involved in 4-H and receive g reat joy in assisting and

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w a t ching today's 4-H youth d u c t ive community memachi eve and grow into pro- be r s .

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

THE OBSERVER — 7A

LOCAL

VOLUNTEER WORIC

Musician spreads music, By Yurika Masuda

and ofFers emotional and spiritual support. Layne Maxwelle Scott, a 9-yearVolunteers' duties range from carold fiddle player, brightens the every- ing forpatientstodoingoffice tasks. day life of Essie Wagoner, 91, with Direct patient care includes listeningtothe patients'stories,readthe sound of delight and cordiality. ing books, playing instruments or Scott is a volunteer from Heart 'n Home Hospice & Palliative Care. games, as well as helping patients' Founded in 2004, Heart'n Home family members with duties such afFrrms life by providing emotional, as delivering medications, cooking meals and transportation. physical and spiritual support to their patients and to those who A year after Scott started a fiddle loveand care forthem. Hospice isa lessonat8 yearsold,he chosetobe patientand family support service a part of Heart n' Home in October. ''Afler I joined Heart 'n Home, thatkeeps the patient comfortable, I started to practice the fiddle teachesthefamily toprovide care For The Observer

BASKETS Continued from Page1A the foodand presentsare distributed. CarolTerry ofFered her storefront on the corner of River and North streets to gather the boxes, food and giftdonations.

McQuead said she and Michele Young, Enterprise city administrator, are making ornaments for the Tree of Giving on display at the Enterprise Flower Shop and working with members of the

Elks Club. Donnie Rynearson is helping organize the Elks memberstogather donations and deliver the gifts and baskets before Christmas. Though the Harveys and their elves have long been the force behind the Elks Christmas baskets,"It has become more of a community program the last few years," Rynearson sald. The Enterprise Chapter of Family Career and Community Leaders of America will help pack the boxes, and several members of the Elks Club and the Enterprise VFW Post are standing by to help gather donations and deliverthebaskets. Now that the community is being called to take more ownership and relieve the Harvey family that has worked tirelessly for so many years, another need became glaringly evident: Rynearson said donations have been down the last couple of years and the club has had to dip intoitsreservefunds to make ends meet.

"Itcostthe Elks$9,500to operate the program over and above the donations. It's almost depleted our fund," Rynearson said. On Monday, the county commissioners voted togive the Christmas Basket pro-

How to get involved Community members can still help in a variety of ways. • Enterprise City Hall and Wallowa Mountain Properties in Enterprise are collecting cash donations. They can also be sent to the Elks Club, PO. Box K, Enterprise 97828. Food donations can be dropped off at Mt. Joseph Family Foods in Joseph, The Dollar Stretcher in Enterprise and Wallowa Food City in Wallowa. • By Dec.1,theTree of Giving at Enterprise Flower Shop will be decorated with ornaments that list the gender and age of the recipient and the gift desired. Pick up an ornament and return the suggested gift in a wrapped box to the Flower Shop. • Deliverers are still needed on Dec. 20. Volunteers will meet at the Wallowa County Fairgrounds' Cloverleaf Hall in Enterprise. Deliveries will be made to every city, town and village in the county. To help deliver, call Donnie Rynearson at 541-2630598.

gram $2,000 from its video lottery fund, seed money for much-needed donations, and the Elks Club is asking Wallowa County to step up and give money and food to help fill the baskets. Contact Katy Nesbitt at 541-786-4235 or knesbitt@ lagrandeobserver.com. Follow Katy on Twitter 0 IgoNesbitt.

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more," Scott said. At each visit with Wagoner hehas played"Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," which Wagoner sings along with and enjoys the most. +~ 'fL "I like parties and having people overatmy house,"Wagoner said. She's certainlyused to havingkids amund — Wagoner has six children and more than a dozen grandchildren. Scott's bright smile, as well as the sound ofhis fiddle, fills Wagoner's living room with heartfelt warmth. 'This boy's visit has been making Tim Mustoe/The Ohserver me happier every week,"Wagoner Nine-year-old Layne Scott plays fiddle tunes for 91-year-old Essie Wagner in her living room. sald.

ELGIN

The lack of communication from Anderson Perry was frustrating to many on Continued ~om Page1A the council. "Anderson Perry was homes and school, was funded by a federal grant asked to come out twice to worth $500,000, according lookattheprojectbutnever to Allan Duffy, Elgin city did," Elgin Mayor Brent Linville said. councilor and mayor-elect. ''Why should the city be Additionally, Anderson responsibleforengineering Perry said change orders flaws?" DufFy asked at the were approved by city counmeeting. cilors, but Duffy said that City leaders said they couldn't happen singularly. "A city councilor couldn't believe drainage issues with the new sidewalks should be sign ofFon that," DufFy said. addressed by the engineering ''We can't act upon it on our company, Anderson Perry and own. We can only act as a Associat es,beforethecontract group. with the firm is closed. DufFy said Anderson "Anderson Perry lived up Perry's job is to know how to to theterm oftheir contract," avoidthese drainage issues. "The problems we ended said Ken Patterson, repreup with, we shouldn't have sentative for the Oregon Department of Transportabeen left with," said City Administrator Laird Allen. tion, which managed the 'The more questions that grantforthe project. "Have they?" DufFy ques- we asked iAnderson Perry), tioned."That's your opinion." the more confusing their

answers got because they didn't know. I was an engineer for a long time and I'm not impressed." The council may have some money left over from

the grant, about $13,000, according to Mike Berry of ODOT. That money may go toward the drainage issues. However, the city would be responsible for the finishing touches. ''When kids have to walk out in the street because the sidewalk is flooded, it's not a saferouteto school,"DufFy sald. Patterson and Berry both stood firmly behind the project. "In the long run, it's a prettygood projectthat meets all the requirements of the contract," Berry said. 'There was limited funding. The Safe Routes projects

underfunded. We designed something that's based on the funds we had." The city council voted to close out the Becker contract but decidednot toclose out the contract with Anderson Perry until its December meeting. In other news, Allen submitted his letter of resignation of the administrator position. The council voted to accept Brock Eckstein, who was voted to be the next Elgin city administrator earlier this month, to step in pro-tem until January when heofficially accepts the position. Allen will continue working part time to help Eckstein with his new position. Contact CheriseKaechele at 541-786-4234 or ckaechele C lagrandeobserver.com. Follow Cherise on Twitter C'lgoKaeche/e.

cover $500,000, and that's not a lot of money. It's

.HERA;

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Virginia (Ginger) Vandell Streitberger

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March 20, 1951 - November 15, 2014

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Ginger was born in Seattle, WA to

Greg and Elma Vandell, and raised in Washington state. She graduated

from Queen Anne High School in 1969, and moved to La Grande, OR in the late '70s, and then to Albany, OR. She finally settled in Crescent City, CA in the mid-'90s. She passed away in Fortuna, CA after undergoing treatment in Eureka, CA for breast cancer, which then spread to her brain. Ginger had an incredible gift for the written word, be it stories, poems, letters, or e-mails. She loved libraries and books from an early age. Ginger was artistically creative,

making paper collages, beaded necklaces, and crocheted afghans, as well as taking beautiful photographs. She is survived by her son Nolan Vandell Streitberger, his wife Rachel, and her granddaughter, Haley Streitberger from Albany, OR; her sister Lynda Purvis of Forest

Grove, OR; and her former husband Mio Streitberger of Albany, OR as well as her stepdaughter Sheena Ingram. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Larry Vandell, and her loving companion of 11 years, Jesse (Jakel Ingram of Crescent City, who passed away in July of 2014. Ginger leaves behind several high school buddies who would all get together to giggle and be as silly as they

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were years earlier, as well as longtime pen pals around

the U.S., and Friends of Bill W. She was also loved and nurtured by all the medical staff she became close friends with during her cancer journey this year. Ginger's cremains will be scattered along her favorite beaches in Crescent City, around the PNW, as well as near the lion statues in front of the NY City Public

Library. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2014

SCHOOE Island City school concerts set Two winter music programs will be given at Island City Elementary School on Dec. 12. The concertswillbe at9 a.m .and

1 p.m. in the school's gym. Students in grades 3-5 will perform.

Greenwood music program set

The Observer

INTERNSHIP

EOll juniorlivingoutsciencedream

Greenwood Elementary School's winter music programs will be given at 9 a.m. and 1p.m. Dec. 9in the school's gym. Students in grades 3-5 will perform.

Observing Sunshine

Courtesy photo

Eastern Oregon University student and NASA intern Nyki Anderson pretends to use the Hubble Space Telescope Master Control computer. Anderson is working full-time at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. By Yunka Masuda

own presentation skills. Anderson is attending While Nyki Anderson, 20, is EOU as a junior with a pursuing her undergraduate double major in math and degree online through Eastern science, and a minor in Oregon University she is also physics. Her passion for sciworking full time at NASA's ence continues to grow as a Goddard Space Flight Center. member of the NASA team Anderson is one of the few in Greenbelt, Md. "John Mather is the first recipients of two highly competitive scholarships making and only NASA scientist to be the experience possible: The awardedaNobel Prizeforhis John Mather Nobel Scholars researchthat proved thatthe universe is expanding,"Anaward and a 4-year Institution Scholarship from the derson explained."I have met Oregon NASA Space Grant Dr. Mather several times and he is truly inspirational. He is Consortium. The National Space Grant funny, humble and inquisitive." Foundation Inc. presents the Anderson, born in SpanMather award to applicants away, Wash., appreciates who are passionate about receiving such a huge honor science, space and astmnomy. named for Mather, who works To qualify, students must be right down the hall fmm her current NASA interns at the and enjoys the students'many junior, senior or graduate questions about the universe. level and have experience With her math and computspeakingatprofessional scier science backgmund, Anderson is specializingin programence conferences. The three-year award mingin the microlensing field, which is comprised of only a provides money to cover Anderson's food, housing and hundred people in the world. registration for various sciGravitational microlensingis ence conferences on the latest a way to detect planets amund and greatest research, which verydistant starsand better will expand her experiences understand their composition in the field and improve her and mass.

The team plays a significant role in substantiating the millions of dollars invested by the government for the WFIRST Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope. Through thistelescope,researchers can characterize the types ofstarsand observe lensing events — the bending oflight around huge masses. Anderson's daily schedule includes coding on her computer and attending meetings with her teammates. She is also a member of NASA's Local Organizing Committee for the 19th International Conference on Microlensing coming up in January in Annapolis, Md. Besides Anderson's persistent commitment, the supportshe received from EOU encouraged her to fulfill all of these achievements, even after she faced financial difficulty in 2012. It was her senior year in high school and her father lost his job. "I had justbeen accepted to a private university and decided I wanted to go there,"Anderson explained. ''When Ifi gured out that I could no longer affoid that school as a possibility, I

For The Observer

Dick Mason/The Observer

Sunshine, a pied cockatiel, moves a small tablet at Blue Mountain Montessori School while student Jon Schad observes at a skill development station. Sunshine is Blue Mountain Montessori's school bird. The bird is particularly intrigued with computers and loves to watch the school's teachers work on them.

State science teacher

group gets $40Kgrant Observer staff

elementary grades, will need The Oregon Science Teach- professi onal development ers Association has been in an ongoing, connected and informal basis. This is awarded a $40,000grant fmm the Meyer Memorial particularly true in Oregon, Trust to develop an adaptive a state with a large number strategic framework that will of rural communities. "The OSTA is uniquely guide OSTA to become a 21st century pmfessional develop- qualified to support the ment organization. professional development of With the adoption of the teachersworking to develop Next Generation Science strategic partnerships with Standards as the new stakeholders in science, Oregon Science Standards technology, engineering and in March 2014 come chalmathematics education," lengesto scienceeducation. said Doug Stamm, CEO of Meyer Memorial Trust. Educators, especially in the

consideml community colleges and the workforce because most universities were no longeracceptingapplications.That is how I found EOU" Anderson sought hope when she applied to EOU a week beforetheuniversity'sdeadline. "I called EOU every day and the people in financial aid were very nice and helpful," she recalled. Anderson was admitted and with financial assistance of severalscholarshipsgranted thmugh the EOU Foundation induding Avista Minds in Motion, the Women in Science Award and a General Scholarship Award, her goal of attending college was realized. She holds greatrespect and appreciat ion forherprofessors, particularlyAmy Yielding, Anthony Tovar and Richard Croft, who were always willing to help and have had great influence on her life. Despite being far away from campus, Anderson remains connected through the uniquebridge beingforged between EOU and NASA as she cultivates her enthusiasm and diligence toward science while pursuing her education.

HoNoRS Imbler High School Imbler High School has released the names of first quarter honor roll students. 4.00 Daniel Allen, Kristen Allstott, Drake Lannon,Rusti n McDonald, Luke Sibernagel, Rachel Weis, Autumn Wheeling, Esther Acquistapace, Tyler Bales, Gavin Eddy,McKayla Hoskin, Trace VanCleave, Whitney Wilber, Hailey Bingaman, Emily Faulk, Cory Goldstein, Kelley Massingale, Ryan Mullarkey, MarshalWhitaker, Hannah Wilhelm, Ryan Allen, Chloe Birkrniie, William Coston, Wade McDonald, Brendan Colwell, Devin Colwell, Benjamin Wagner. 3.88-3.6 Kelsee Carlsen, Clayton Cunningham, Elissa Durning, Joseph Griffin, Michael Blade, Savanna Mullarkey, Hailey Patterson, Amanda Feik, Hunter Lannon, MarkYerges,

Freedom Coston, Bonny Daggett, Hannah Kilpatrick, Gavin Young, Katelyn Stirewalt, Aspen Birkrniie, Blake Frost, Ryan Patterson, Sadie Royes, Gracey Smith, Kylie Barry, Heather Haefer, Madeline Hale, JefferyWalker, Emma Simpson, HutchWagoner, Sidney Bowman 3.57-3.4 Maddison Bigej, Emma Bowers, Jake Campbell, Wyatt Christensen, Reed Graves, McKaye Harris, Darcie Kanoho, Klint Potter, Gary Combe, Alexander Daggett, Calvin Shaffer, Katie Barry, Aaron Knife, Kailey Smith, Brandon McGilvray, Challen Butcher, Cade Gorham, Derek Thompson, Caysie McGinness, Wyatt Whitaker, Jayce Burnette, Connor Croghan 3.3-3.25 Ryan Howell, Timothy Kilpatrick, Anu Kanoho,AshleyMunoz, Matthew Ottmann, Treynae Shaffer, Gabriel

Tritchka, HaleyVanLeuven, Kylene Uhl, Garrett Christensen, Jordan Teeter, SydneyTreat, Isaac Bingaman, Tanner Crook, Haylee Hamilton, SydneyJohnson,Jacie Shaff er,Caleb Sieders

JakeCoggins4.00,Adagia Latta4.00, Deidre Schreiber 3.90, Sarah Evaits 3.89, LexieGassett3.78,Amy Beck 3.62, Karli Bedard 3.61, Madison McDowell 3.61, Shelby Moncrief 3.61, Avery Bedard 3.55, Jessica Teeney 3.55, Shane Lund 3.44 Enterprise 9TH GRADE Enterprise junior and and senior Gracie Carlsen 4.00, Cole Farwell high schools have released their first 4.00, Riley Gray 4.00, Sebastian quarter honor rolls. The students who Hobbs 4.00, Eliza Irish 4.00, Lucy qualified are listed below with their Kissinger 4.00, JimmyWells 4.00, grade point averages. Rachel Frolander 3.95, Rylie Hayward 7TH GRADE 3.95, Heidi Niezen 3.95, Curtis Tishrei Movich-Fields 4.00, Foster Sanders 3.95, Reece Christman 3.90, Hobbs 3.89, Ashlyn Gray 3.83, Cole AshleyExon 3.77,Madison Plew 3.62, Gomes 3.81, Kaylie Melville 3.81, TrentWalker 3.43, Brett Greenshields Gracie Niezen 3.71, Jadon Garland 3.33, Ellie Van Doozer 3.33 3.67, Shyla Jenkins 3.67, Sydney 10TH GRADE Rouse 3.61, Katie Olson 3.55, Timmy Morgan Anderson 4.00, Becca Wells 3.55, Pablo Arenas 3.44, Ella Bateman4.00,Jacob Evaits4.00, Anderson 3.43, Wesley Johnson 3.39, Wade Isley 4.00, Patrick Powers 4.00, Zion Mark3.39, DrewWidener 3.33 Casey Kiser 3.95, Darby Gassett 3.86, 8TH GRADE Kacie Melville 3.86, Jordan Collins

3.71,Whitney Evans 3.71, Gabby Wells 3.67, Sarah Aschenbrenner 3.57, Kobe Ketscher 3.57, Jacob Strampe 3.57, Tate Olsen 3.52, Trent Bales 3.47, Zyler Hermens 3.47, Gwen Jenson 3.38, Nate Anton 3.33 11TH GRADE Nathan Perren 3.95, Dawn Mist Movich-Fi elds3.94,EyreusRooney 3.90, Mackenzie Gray 3.89,Andrea Buttetfield 3.83, Emma Carlsen 3.83, Jane Kissinger 3.81, Bette Rooney 3.81, Zoe Sallada 3.81, Justin Exon 3.78, Katelynn Sidoti 3.76, Stefany Christman 3.61, Jacklyn Jenson 3A3,Will McCadden 3A3, Nikki Maasdam 3.39 12TH GRADE Nikolai Christoffersen 4.00, Carsen Sajonia 4.00, Jolene Ginther 3.94, SarahMadsen 3.94,Emma Hall3.89, Taylor Jenkins 3.83, Reanna Royse 3.71, Rocky Davidson 3.67, Christian Ruckdashel 3.67, Cheyenne Knight 3.66, Cody Insh 3A4

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Wednesday, November 26, 2014 The Observer

ON DECIC

PREP GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

COLLEGE CROSS COUNTRY

FRIDAY • College women's basketball: Eastern Oregon vs. Whitworth (Wash.) University, Lady Yote Classic, Caldwell, Idaho, 4 p.m.

Patriarch oflocal volleyball

By Eric Avissar

AT A GLANCE

The Observer

As some of the most accomplished volleyball coaches in the Eastern Oregon area, Lasa Baxter, Jennifer Teeter and Melinda Becker-Bisenius have all made volleyball a cornerstone of their livesbecause oftheirpassion for the game. If you ask them who played the biggestrolesin fostering that passion, one of the first names they will mention is Patty Herron. Herron, who graduated from Baker High School in 1979 before playing at Eastern Oregon, coached the trio at Union High School after takingoverthe volleyballprogram in 1985. Early on Herron found it difficult to build her program while going up against stifFcompetition, as the Bobcats went 1-18 in her first season at the helm. "It was hard to make the girls believe they could win," Herron said.'They just needed to gain the experience. Half the battle is knowing who you're playing when you walk in the door." Once Herron got the girls to believe, the results followed. Herron creditedsistersTeeter and BeckerBisenius and Baxter among the many players who helped build the foundation for future success. 'They realized that hard work gets it done," Herron said."The younger girls saw what it takes, and really looked up to the older girls. They made it easier for the other girls to see that they can be successful. If they're willing to put in the time, it pays ofFa In addition to Becker-Bisenius at La Grande and Teeter at Imbler, their sisters Ruthie Becker-Peters and KimmieBecker-Gunderson went on to coach volleyball at the junior varsity level. Eager to absorb as much as they could from Herron, Baxter said she and the rest ofher teammates were hungry to show her what they were SeeHerron/Page 10A

Four girls make 2A all-state Union senior i/iki McCabe and Cove senior Hannah Hulse were named to the 2A all-state volleyball second team. Imbler senior Emma Bowers and Union senior Keesha Sarman were voted to third team allstate.

e sI

Ducks remain second in CFP Things remained the same at the top of the latest unveiling of the College Football Playoff rankings, but one team took quite the tumble down the list. Alabama, Oregon, Florida State and Mississippi State are again the top four teams in the CFP rankings; in fact, the top seven teams from last week's rankings remained unchanged. TCU, Ohio State and Baylor held steady at the Nos. 5-7 spots. Mississippi, however, took a spill, going from No. 8 last week all the way down to No. 19 following an embarrassing 30-0 road loss to Arkansas that was the Rebels' third straight SEC defeat.

Trial lor exPats TE delayed Ajudge onTuesday agreed to delay the trial of former New England Patriots player Aaron Hernandez in the 2012 slaying of two Boston men after his lawyer said Hernandez's defense team is busy trying to prepare for his trial in a 2013 killing. During a hearing in Suffolk Superior Court, one of Hernandez's lawyers asked a judge to delay the trial for the fatal shootings of Daniel deAbreu and Safir oFurtadoby six months, saying his legal team cannot prepare effectively for that trial until Hernandez's trial in the 2013 killing of semi-professional football player Odin Lloyd is over. Jury selection in that case is scheduled to begin Jan. 9 in Fall River.

Annetta Evans photo

Eastern Oregon cross country runner Damion Flores, pictured here at the Cascade Collegiate Conference championships, took second at the NAIA national championships in Lawrence, Kan., Saturday.

no e

• Mountaineer senior finishes out career with second place-finish

he didn't compete in the sport until the final two years ofhigh school at South Umpqua High School in Myrtle Creek. "In high school I played football, and in track I thought I was a By Josh Benham The Observer sprinter," Flores said."Mybrother For Eastern Oregon cross country was a sprinter, so I tried to be like senior Damion Flores, the decision him. I only started cross country my to run for the Mountaineers came on junior and senior years. I didn't even a whim. know mileage was a thing. Coming "I had a friend come here, and to college, it was a big change." he convinced me to come and run," Flores began at Eastern in 2009, Flores said."It wasn't a part of my and as a sophomore the following original plan." year he finished fifth at nationals. The decision paid ofF for the Moun- Following that year, however, he taineers, asFlorescaptured second was looking to transfer to Arizona at Saturday's NAIA national chamState, but the move ended up falling pionships in Lawrence, Kan., with a through. After taking the 2010-2011 time of 24 minutes, 41 seconds. That school year ofF, he came back for the runner-up finish helped the Eastern 2012-2013 year and simply focused men claim fourth in the team race, on school. He then competed in inits highest finish since 2002. door and outdoor track and field for Floresdid nottake thetypical the 2013-2014 season, taking home route to college cross country. In fact, See Flores/Fbge 10A

Annetta Evans photo

Eastern Oregon senior Damion Flores poses with his first-place trophy at the Cascade Collegiate Conferencechampionships Nov. 8 in Portland.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL

eriencedcreIN retarnsforHuskies • Seven seniors look to lead Elgin By Josh Benham The Observer

Sometimes the stars align to give a team a wealth of experience. Elgin is lucky enough to have one of those seasons. The Huskies return seven seniors ofF a team that went 10-15 in 2013-2014, defeating Enterprise 38-29 in the Blue Mountain District tournament before falling in the next round to WestonMcEwen. '%e don't get these years all the time in Elgin," head coach Mike Slater said.

"Things are jelling together and looking pretty good. They're coming ofF a relatively successful season, and they look more mature. The girls are very dedicated and very excited to play this year." Elgin has a large pool of players this season, and Slater expects the competitiontofoster a competitive environment on the team. "There's a big group of girls out and wanting to

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL

Newblood for '1

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t!:~trrii,

Elginpmgram By Josh Benham The Observer

play basketball. Probably around 20 girls, so there's a lot of excitement," he said. "That's good when you have a turnout like that, because Observer file photo ithelps us be able to practice Elgin's Miah Slater attempts a shot durwell, and to push the girls to ing a game last season. Slater is one of See Seniors/Fbge 10A seven seniors back for the Huskies.

A familiar face to area basketball fans will lead Elgin into a fresh start. Kevin Johnson begins his first year at the helm of the Huskies' program after a coaching and playing career all over the Grande Ronde Valley. Johnson grew up and played basketball atImblerbefore goingtoEastern Oregon to compete for the Mountaineers. "Growing up in Imbler, it's a pretty easy transition out to Elgin," Johnson said."I know the majority of the people. It's a little interesting going over the hill, but God was just pushing me to get involved in the community. I'm in it for the kids and their betterment." After graduating from Eastern in 2006, Johnson has had some experience helping the La Grande High School basketball program. He will inherit an Elgin squad that lacks big See Elgin/Page 10A

OBSERVERATHLETE OF THE DAY

TOMORROW'S PICK

WHO'S HOT

WHO'S NOT

Lone Mountie senior pacesvictory

Seahawks-Niners first battle af year

PABLO SANDOVAL:The Boston Red Sox rewarded the former San Francisco Giants' third baseman with a five-year contract worth $95 million, with an additional $17 million club option for a sixth year.

BRANDON MCMANUS:The Denver Broncos waived the kicker TuesdayafterMcManus missed four field goals in the past eight games, including a 33-yarder that hit the uprights against the Miami Dolphins Sunday.

Eastern Oregon forward Kassy Larson was named theCascade Conference Championships Red Lion player of the week, the conference announced Monday. Larson scored 27 points and had 14 rebounds in a win over Walla Walla (Wash.j University Nov. 19, and scored 22 points and collected nine rebounds in a win over Simpson (Calif.j University Saturday.

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In the team's first game since last year's NFC championship game, the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers resume their rivalry in San Fran. 5:30 p.m., NBC

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10A — THE OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

SPORTS

SCOREBOARD FOOTBALL NFL Standings

Washington

3 8 0 .27 3 217273 South W L T P c t P F PA Atlanta 4 7 0 . 3 64 262281 New Orleans 4 7 0 . 3 64 288286 Carolina 3 7 1 . 3 18 215300 Tampa Bay 2 9 0 . 1 82 207300 North W L T P c t P F PA 8 3 0 . 7 27 354246 7 4 0 . 6 36 197190 5 6 0 . 4 55 236303 4 7 0 . 3 64 202244 West W L T P c t P F PA Arizona 9 2 0 . 8 18 240195 Seattle 7 4 0 . 6 36 279218 San Francisco 7 4 0 .6 3 6 228225 St. Louis 4 7 0 . 3 64 209285 All Times PST

AMERICAN CONFERENCE East W L T P c t P F PA New England 9 2 0 . 8 18 357227 Miami 6 5 0 . 5 45 285219 Bulfalo 6 5 0 . 5 45 238207 N.Y. Jets 2 9 0 . 1 82 177303 South W L T P c t P F PA Indianapolis 7 4 0 . 6 36 333256 Houston 5 6 0 . 4 55 242226 Tennessee 2 9 0 . 1 82 192293 Jacksonville 1 10 0 . 091 161305 North W L T P c t P F PA Thursday's Games Cincinnati 7 3 1 . 6 82 246234 Chicago at Detroit, 9:30 a.m. Baltimore 7 4 0 . 6 36 295208 Philadelphia at Dallas, 1:30 p.m. Pittsburgh 7 4 0 . 6 36 288263 Seattle at San Francisco, 5:30 p.m. Cleveland 7 4 0 . 6 36 242219 West W L T P c t P F PA Denver 8 3 0 . 7 27 332260 Kansas City 7 4 0 . 6 36 261195 MLS Playoff Glance San Diego 7 4 0 . 6 36 245216 Oakland 1 10 0 . 091 176285 All Times PST NATIONAL CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP East New England 2, New York1 W L T P c t P F PA Leg 1 — Sunday, Nov. 23: New England Philadelphia 8 3 0 . 7 27 342275 2, New York1 Dallas 8 3 0 . 7 27 292240 Leg 2 — Saturday, Nov. 29: NewYork at N.Y. Giants 3 8 0 . 2 73 233294 New England, Noon.

SOCCER

SENIORS Continued ~om Page 9A be better. I like the way everything is shaping up for us, as far as preseason, open gyms and summer league." At the fore&ont of the group are the seven seniors, led by Miah Slater in the post. Stormy Silver and Katie Witherspoon are lengthy perimeter players, and Aria Higgins provides some pop &om her guard position. "Miah looks very mature," Slater said. "Not just because she's my daughter, but just as a coach, I'm liking what I'm seeing &om her in practice. Stormy and Katie are two returning wings who are extremelydedicated." One junior expected to make a large impact with the senior-laden group is guard Katelyn Harris, who will be coming off an ACL tear last year in the last game of the season.

capable of. "She is fun, energetic and really cares about everyone's well-being," Baxter, who coaches the Union volleyball squad, said of Herron."She put in a lot of extra time and was constantly willing to stay after practice to help. For me, she was always extremely inspirational." Herron's coaching tree is seemingly endless, with Sheree Evans, Karen Johnson and Mendy Clark among the coaches who coached under Herron who later went on to become varsity head coaches themselves. Early in her career, Herron's girls would carry their competiti veness over to the hardwood, with Wayne Herron coaching the Union girls basketball team, who Becker-Bisenius called"Mr. Intensity." W ayne and Pattymet during their sophomore year as students at Eastern, where Patty fondly recalled how the two became close. ''Wewere in a badminton class my volleyball coach, Jean Neely, was teaching," Patty Herron said."I kept beating Wayne, and finally she pulled me aside after class and told me, 'Honey, ifyou want Wayne tokeep courting you, then you better let him win sometime.' So I did, and the rest is history." Once Herron established Union as one of the most competitive volleyball programs in the area, the Bobcats consis-

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NBA Standings EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division W L Pct GB Toronto 12 2 .85 7 Brooklyn 5 8 ,385 6' / 2 Boston 4 8 .33 3 7 New York 4 1 1 .2 6 7 8 ' / 2 Philadelphia 0 14 . 000 1 2 Southeast Division W L Pct GB Washington 9 4 .69 2 Atlanta 7 5 ,583 1' / 2 Miami 8 7 .53 3 2 Orlando 6 1 0 .3 7 5 4 ' / 2 Charlotte 4 11 . 267 6 Central Division W L Pct GB Chicago 9 6 .60 0 Milwaukee 8 7 .53 3 1 Cleveland 6 7 .46 2 2 Indiana 6 8 .429 2 ' / 2 Detroit 3 1 1 .2 1 4 5 ' / 2 WESTERN CONFERENCE Southwest Division W L Pct GB

Memphis 12 2 .85 7 Houston 11 3 .78 6 1 San Antonio 9 4 .69 2 21/2 Dallas 10 5 .66 7 21/2 New Orleans 7 6 .53 8 41/2 Northwest Division W L Pct GB Portland 11 3 .78 6 Denver 7 7 .50 0 4 Utah 5 1 0 . 3 3 3 6'/2 Minnesota 3 9 .25 0 7 Oklahoma City 3 12 .200 8'/2 Pacific Division W L Pct GB Golden State 11 2 .84 6 Sacramento 9 5 .64 3 21/2 L.A. Clippers 8 5 .61 5 3 Phoenix 9 6 .60 0 3 L.A. Lakers 3 1 1 . 2 1 4 8'/2 All Times PST

Tuesday's Games Atlanta 106, Washington 102 Golden State 114, Miami 97 Sacramento 99, New Orleans 89 Milwaukee 98, Detroit 86 Denver 114, Chicago 109

Wednesday's Games Brooklyn at Philadelphia, 4 p.m. Golden State at Orlando, 4 p.m. Portland at Charlotte, 4 p.m. Washington at Cleveland, 4 p.m. New York at Dallas, 4:30 p.m. Toronto atAtlanta, 4:30 p.m. L.A. Clippers at Detroit, 4:30 p.m. Utah at Oklahoma City, 5 p.m. Sacramento at Houston, 5 p.m.

St. Louis Chicago Winnipeg Minnesota Dallas Colorado

Milwaukee at Minnesota, 5 p.m. Indiana at San Antonio, 5:30 p.m. Denver at Phoenix, 6 p.m. Memphis at L.A. Lakers, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday's Games No games scheduled

HOCKEY NHL Standings EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division GP W L OT Pls GF M ontreal 23 1 6 6 1 33 6 1 T ampaBay 2 2 14 6 2 30 7 7 D etroit 21 11 5 5 27 5 9 B oston 23 13 9 1 27 5 9 T oronto 21 11 8 2 24 6 7 O ttawa 21 10 7 4 24 5 8 F lorida 19 7 6 6 20 41 B uiialo 21 6 13 2 14 3 6 Metropolitan Division GP W L OT Pls GF P ittsburgh 2 0 1 4 4 2 30 7 2 N .Y. Islandeis 21 15 6 0 3 0 6 9 N .Y. Rangers 20 9 7 4 22 5 7 W ashington 20 9 8 3 21 5 6 N ew Jeisey 22 9 1 0 3 2 1 5 3 P hiladelphia 20 8 9 3 19 5 7 C arolina 20 6 11 3 15 4 8 C olumbus 2 1 6 1 3 2 1 4 5 1 WESTERN CONFERENCE Central Division GP W L OT Pls GF N ashville 21 1 4 5 2 30 6 1

GA 57 60 52 57 63 56 51 70 GA 46 57 58 54 63 61 62 76 GA 45

2 214 6 2 3 0 2 112 8 1 2 5 2 311 9 3 2 5 2 012 8 0 2 4 2 2 9 9 4 22 2 2 8 9 5 21 Pacific Division GP W LOT Pts A naheim 23 1 4 4 5 33 V ancouver 2 2 1 5 6 1 31 C algary 23 13 8 2 28 L osAngeles 22 11 6 5 2 7 S an Jose 2 3 1 0 9 4 24 A rizona 23 9 11 3 21 E dmonton 2 2 6 1 4 2 1 4 All Times PST

59 46 63 44 49 53 58 44 64 74 57 70 GFGA 63 56 67 61 73 64 60 53 62 64 57 71 51 77

Tuesday's Games Ottawa 3, St. Louis 2, SO Nashville 4, LosAngeles 3, SO Winnipeg4,Columbus 2 Dallas 3, Edmonton 2 Colorado 4, Arizona 3, OT Vancouver 2, New Jersey 0 Anaheim 3, Calgary 2

Wednesday's Games

Winnipeg at Buffalo, 4 p.m. Washington at N.Y. Islanders, 4 p.m. Philadelphia at Detroit, 4:30 p.m. N.Y. Rangers at Tampa Bay, 4:30 p.m. Carolina at Florida, 4:30 p.m. Toronto at Pittsburgh, 4:30 p.m. Los Angeles atMinnesota,5 p.m. Chicago at Colorado, 6 p.m. Calgary at San Jose, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday's Games Edmonton at Nashville, 5 p.m.

''s4

"Jordyn has been our starting point guard the last three years, but she has a knee injury and I'm not sure if she'll play," Slater said."I wanted to shore up that position and have two or three proficient guards, whether or not she was hurt." Elgin begins the season Dec. 5 when it hosts the Elgin Lions Club tournament, one of a few out-of-conference tournaments the team will compete in. ''We have a couple good road tournaments we'll go to representing our league and our district," Slater said. ''We're going over to Kennedy for a tournament in Mount Angel, and also a three-day on at Parma ildahol over Christmas break. We're going to see some really tough competition early." That will come in handy for the conferenceslate,where Slater seesstifF competition up and down the schedule. Slater sees Union, Grant Union and Burns as three contenders.

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Observer file photo

Elgin senior Jake Burgess, 32, is one of the top returning players for the Huskies this winter.

or three miles. I should have made my move earlier. It's one of the best strategies, it's just a Continued ~om Page 9A lot more painful. I just couldn't a national title in the indoor really make up the gap." The first-place runner, 5k, and finishing second in Benard Keter of Wayland the outdoor 5k. That all led up to this fall Baptist iTexasl University, competingin his final cambested Flores by five seconds. "It's a good feeling,but paign for the Mountaineers cross country team. After win- obviously not what I was ning the Cascade Collegiate shootingfor,"hesaid."I thought I had a good shot at Conference individual race winning, but it's an improveNov. 8, he set his sights on beating the country in Kansas. ment off my sophomore year, "Going into the race, I had so I'm happy." it all planned out," he said."I What filled Flores with more joy was the team taking would stay back at the start fourth, as the top-four teams and push my way up to the receivedteam trophies. fiont, letting the leaders do "In 2010 we got fikh as their thingin the first two

Continued ~om Page 9A

BASKETBALL

"She's going to fill a real important role bringing the ball up the floor," Slater said."Katelyn's been extremely dedicated and ready to contribute. She missed all of the volleyball season, but basketball is her favorite sport, so it's greatthat she'llbeready fortheseason." In a Wapiti League with a shortage of height on some teams, Elgin has three playersthat are atleast5-foot-10.Slater sees the inside presence on the team as an advantage. "I've got some proficient wings, but I would say the deepest position is in the post," he said."There's quite a bit of talent, and they work extremely hard. I think we've got a little bit of an edge that way." Conversely, it is the perimeter, specifically the point guard position, where Slater would like to build some greater depth. An injury to senior Jordyn Anderson, who was expected to play big minutes there, hasn't helped the cause.

FLORES

HERRON

Western Conference LA Galaxy1, Seattle 0 Leg1 — Sunday, Nov. 23: LAGalaxy1, Seattle 0 Leg 2 — Sunday, Nov. 30: LAGalaxy at Seattle, 6 p.m.

tentlyreaped the rewards, as she led the program to eight state tournament appearances and a state championship in 2002 with her daughter Chelsea on the team. Both Chelsea and son Jadon played three sports at Union. Becker-Bisenius attributed much of Herron's success as a coachtoher ability togive each kid what they needed. "She found ways to help each individual get better," Becker-Bisenius said."Some coachesbelieveyou treat all players the same, and she didn't do that. That was something I really liked, how each kid was a different one to work with." In addition, several of the girls that Herron coached also ended up remaining involved as coaches in the Union volleyball program, including Rhondie Rickman-Johansen, Cinda Miller, Mindy Mitchell, Jana Brotherton, Jennifer Brotherton, Jennifer Sasser and Amy Poor. Herron is also widely credited for playing a major role in making volleyball a yearround sport, and one of the first coaches to start the trend of training players who didn't always play for their high school squads. One example is current Cove volleyball head coach Darcy Carreiro, who played for the Leopards. "She knew I was passionate about volleyball and took me under her wing and taught me a lot," Carreiro said."She pioneered the bridge of incorporating girls that aren't a part ofher high school program." Though kids being coached

a team, and going into this season, I really wanted us to be a trophy team," Flores said.'When I crossed the finish line, to see a bunch of my teammates running in after me was great. To go from the preseason and barely breaking the top-10, to ending up fourth was pretty exciting." It was a circuitous route to second place,butFlores wouldn't have had it any other way.

"iHead coach) BenWelch gave me that second chance to run here again, and I enjoyed my time at Eastern," he said.'The campus isn't too big, and the class size is really small. A smaller school

is what I needed." Flores plans to run in a USATF Club Cross Country Nationals race in Pennsylvania in December. A computer science major, he wants to continue his schooling in Portland or Eugene and lry out for the Oregon Track Club, a professional organization based in Eugene, to keep his newfound passion at full throttle. "Running is a great way of expressing yourself, if that makes any sense," he said ofhis love of running."It's definitely an obsession now. There's alotoftim eto get into my thoughts, and it's a way to get away fiom life for a while."

Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver

Former Union High School volleyball head coach Patty Herron hasmolded many area high school coaches. by their parents is not an uncommon occurence in Northeast Oregon athletics, Teeter nonetheless was torn over whether or not to coach her daughter Jacey once she reached high school age. Ultimately, it was Patty's advice that played a major role in her staying on as Imbler volleyball coach, where she won her third 1A state championship in 2013 with an undefeated season. "I thought she would regret it if she didn't do it," Herron said."She spent so much time, energy and effort helping everyone else's kids all those years, and now was her chance to spend time with her daughter. You spend all that time for all those years, why not get to enjoy it with your daughter?" Herron's tenure at Union came to an end after 20 years of coaching in 2005 because she wanted to watch Chelsea

• 0

play volleyball at Eastern and Jadon play football for Wayne at Union. Herron said she is open to coaching again. "I really do miss coaching, and that's why I've kept volunteeringand keeping my hand in it," she said. While Teeter enjoyed the experience of coaching against Herron, Baxter has not had the same opportunity. "It would be awesome," Baxter said "I would love to see her come back."

ELGIN Continued ~om Page 9A numbers, but is not devoid of talent. There are only two seniors on the team, which is tough in the short term, but will provide dividends in the coming years. "The majority of the team are juniors and sophomores, so I'll be able to get my philosophy ingrained and hopefully be able to get better and better each season." In the present, Johnson will turn to one ofhis two seniors, Jake Burgess, to rally the group with the implementation of a new system. "Jake is one of our main leaders,and he'sjusta real solid kid," Johnson said. Juniors Gavin Christenson and Gage Little, two standoutfootballplayers, and sophomore Chance Weaverwillcomprise the core of players, with Burgess, that the coach will build around for Wapiti League play. ''We're notrealdeep but if you can get four solid athletes, then two others that are pretty close, you can be a pretty good team in the league," Johnson said. Elgin will employ a pressure-packed style, with a lot of full-court press in

attemptstospeed up the game foritsopponents. "These kids are young, and games are only 32 minutes," Johnson said."So I'm huge on conditioning. I want everyone of them to go 32 minutes. Of course, that all depends on personnel, and I believe I have the personnel for that." Johnson hopes his college ball background will carry over,and sofar,the team has responded well. "One of my biggest strengths is knowledge of the game," he said."They all have the abilities to take that knowledge. It just seems like whenever I explain things, it clicks. The biggest thing they lack is technique. Skill development is what colleges are looking for." Johnson's main goal is to getkidsready forcollege, whether they play sports or not. "I'm trying to help them make an easier lransition to college, because it's tough," he said."If I can get a few to solidly transition to the next level, it will keep having colleges look at us, and will be a good thing for the community." Elgin's first action is Dec. 5, as it hosts the Elgin Lion's Club Tournament.

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These devices come equipped with simplified software, big, v ivid featur es, less clutter a n d better customer support p a ckage s, which makes them mor e

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Touch3. Made by Samsung, this Android smartphone has a 4-inch touchscreen wit h a n o r g a n i zed l arge icon menu l is t on t h e h o m e screen that p r o v i des users simple access tooften-used features like the phone, text messages, c amera, pictur es, email a n d Internet, along wit h y ou r c on -

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Desktop Computer If you th in k y ou r g r a n d m ot h er

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I f you're considering a t a b l e t , a top senior-fri endly op t ion i s

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allowed to give case-specific a dvice on when you should st ar t d rawing your benefit s . I f you want h el p w i t h t h i s , y ou'll need to t ur n t o s ome of th e

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C onveni en t W ay s t o

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Online Services W ith th e evolut ion of t h e

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12A — THE OBSERVER

FERGUSON PROTESTS

OREGON IN BRIEF

ennersnraV, arrestsin regon

Erom wire reports

GMO labeling recount has Dec. 12 deadline

Woman killed aRer being struck by train

SALEM — Secretary of State Kate Brown has set a Dec. 12 deadline to finish the hand recount for an Oregon ballot measure seeking labels for genetically modified foods. Brown certified the election results on Tuesday and issueda recount directive to counties. The final results show Measure 92 was defeated by justover800votesoutof more than 1.5 million. That's well below the margin to trigger an automatic recount. The recount will begin Dec. 2. Teams of four people from varying political parties will count each ballot by hand. Supporters and opponents of Measure 92 will be able to observe the process.

EUGENE — Eugene police say a Eugene woman was fatally struck by a train as she chased her dog across the tracks. The Eugene RegisterGuard reports the woman died at the hospital. Police said the crossing arms were down, and audio and visual warning signs had been activated when the woman was hit about 10 p.m. Monday. She was identified as 35-year-old Shannon Rae Essick. Police said she didn't have ID with her, and a public appeal for information resulted in calls that led to the identification. The crossing is west of downtown Eugene. The dog was unhurt. It was described as an Australian Shepherd mix with a red collar and a gray harness. It was taken to a local shelter.

40 years for car theR sex assault in Portland PORTLAND — A man who took a car in Portland and then sexually assaulted a teenage girl he found sleeping in the back seat was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Dailey determined Monday that James Ezell Cark is a dangerous offender because of two previousrape convictions. The Oregonian reports he was convicted of kidnapping and attemptedrape forthe incident in September 2013. The 19-year-old was waiting for a fiiend and left her car idling to stay warm as

she napped. Prosecutors say Clark took the car and stopped to sexually assault the teen after he discovered her in the back. She escaped with the help of a passing bicyclist who heard her screams.

2 seriously wounded in domestic dsipute OREGON CITY — Police in Oregon City say an apparent domestic dispute has left a husband and wife with lifethreatening gunshot wounds. The Oregonian reports that police Sgt. Matthew Paschall said the38-year-old man and 32-year-old woman w ere transported toseparate Portland hospitals, where they were in intensive care Tuesday evening after the shooting in the driveway of their home. Their names were not released. The police spokesman says officers responded shortly after noon Tuesday to reports of two gunshots. Oregon City police and the Clackamas County Major Crimes Team are trying to determine what prompted the gunfire.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

STATE

Driver accused in wrong-way fatality WOODBURN — Oregon StatePolice say a passenger has been killed in a wrongway collision on Interstate 5 in the Willamette Valley, and the driver oftheothercar has been arrested. Police said a 49-year-old Salem woman was jailed on manslaughter, drunken driving and other charges after the head-on crash. It happened about 3 a.m. Tuesday, four miles south of Woodburn. Offrcers said Audrey Bliven's car was headed north in the southbound lanes when it crashed into one driven by 37-year-old Juan Ledesma of Renton, Washington. He and a young back-seat passenger were taken to the hospital. Passenger Deana Deleon, 49, of Nyssa, was killed.

Man fatally stabbed in SEWashington KENNEWICK, Wash. Police in Kennewick, Washington, say a man was fatally stabbed at a plasma donation center as dozens ofhorrified witnesses watched. The Tri-City Herald reportsthat w itnesses called 911 Monday and followed the attacker as he fled, eventually surrounding the man and persuading him to drop a large kitchen knife. Police arrested 40-yearold Matthew de Vore for investigation of murder. The newspaper says he's the estranged husband of the victim's girlfriend. The victim was identified as 45-year-old Thomas Christian Sr., who was at the center with his girlfriend Brenda de Vore. -

By Nigel Duara The Associated Press

PORTLAND — Police in Portland used pepper spray and arrested seven people after hundreds of demonstratorsroamed the city and blocked traffrc Tuesday night while protesting a grand jury decision not to indict a Missouri police officer in the killing of an 18-year-old. The arrests involved a splinter group that broke away afterapeacefuldowntown demonstration that involved about 1,000 people, police said. The smaller group of about 300 marched across a major Willamette River bridge into east Portland, disruptingtraffrc.Sgt.Pete Simpson said one driver was punched in the face by a protester who disappeared into the crowd. The driver was not seriously injured. Protesters also ma rched onto Interstate 5, where some tossed rocks and bottles at police, Simpson said. That's when officers used pepper spray and made several arrests. The freeway was clear within about 10 minutes, the spokesman sald. Those arrested were accused of offenses including disorderly conduct and interfering with an offrcer. Bus and light rail traffic was disrupted. "No justice, no peace," protesters chanted, "no racist police." Several confrontations briefly elevated into skirmishes. At one point on the Hawthorne Bridge, which police were blocking, a police officer on a motorcycle repeatedly ran his bike into the legsofaprotester,who continued to stand in his way.

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Demonstrators marchTuesday in Portland. People protesting the grand jury decision not to indict a police officer in the shooting in Ferguson, Mo., of Michael Brown took to the streets in cities across the U.S. for a second day. The incident drew a crowd of protesters who accused the officer of assault. The officer quickly left the area. The protest had many elements of the Occupy Portland movement, which galvanizedprotestersin the city and formed a network of people who still communicatevia mass textmessage. As with Occupy, the vastmajority ofprotesters preached peace, but a fringe group of people — some covering their faces with black bandannas — advocated violenceand confrontations with police. And like Occupy, theoriginal protestdrew a disparategroup ofpeople together, not all of whom agreed with one another. Military veterans called for peace, a communist groupcalled fortheoverthrow of capitalism, and a group calling for a Palestinian state all held court during a series of speeches on the stepsofthe stateJustice Center in Portland.

Portland is perhaps as primed as any city in the country to protest police actions. The Portland Police Bureau has endured scrutiny by the U.S. Department of Justice, which has criticized the bureau's treatment of the mentally ill. The department has had violent, sometimes fatal, confrontations with the mentally ill and the black community, highlighted in the documentary"Alien Boy," about thedeath of a homeless man in police custody. In many parts ofthe country, Tuesday was the second day of protests over the Ferguson, Mo., decision. For many, the shooting of Michael Brown, who was black, by Offrcer Darren Wilson, who is white, recalled other troubling encounters with law enforcement. The refrain"hands up, don't shoot" became a rallying cry over police killings nationwrde.

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In Eugene, more than 200 people gathered downtown for a Tuesday evening vigil to remember the life of Michael Brown and voice their support for changes in law enforcementpractices. aWe've gone to sleep over the years," said Eugene City Councilor Greg Evans, one of several speakers.aWe've gotten into a cult of worshipping Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. over the years instead of doing his work." Evans, who is black, said he has been racially profiled in Eugene many times and worries for his four sons. "Michael Brown could have been your son, he could have been my son," Evans sald. In Salem, about 50 chantingprotestersgathered earlier Tuesday atthe city's police headquarters. The police station in Oregon's capital city is at City Hall, and the protesters walked in a circle at the building's plaza.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2014 The Observer & Baker City Herald

UNION COUNTY

BRAIN FOOD

HAPPENINGS

ICEN ICELLER

ARC/PLC workshopsslated for December at Eastern Oregon

Why your managers

The UnionCounty Farm ServiceAgency ishosting acouple ofw orkshops forproducers interested in learning more about the ARC/PLC decision making tools. The first session will start at 9 a.m. Monday while the second session will start at 1 p.m. Both sessions will be held at the Eastern Oregon University Computer Lab. The lab is located on the EOU campus at Inlow Hall, Room 013. Producers wishing to attend either workshop need to RSVP for either the morning or afternoon session by calling the Union County Extension Ofllce at 541-

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Better Business Bureau offering $10K scholarship LAKE OSWEGO — The Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington has officially launched the 2015 Students of Integrity Scholarship. High school seniors in the Northwest will have a chance to win a

$10,000scholarship by creating a 90-second video that demonstrates how BBB helps people become smart consumers. Students can check their eligibility and apply online. A panel of judges from all three states will choose the winning entry in March. The deadline to apply is Jan. 30. Students may apply individually or in groups. The video entriesofthetop 15 finalists will be posted on BBB's YouTube channel for public viewing.

WeeCom file photo

The local wind farm located between Union and North Powder utilizes a tax exemption that helps out the local taxing districts while also saving money for the company,TelocasetWind Power Partners.

REAPING THE FINANCIAL

Small Business Saturday coming upin La Grande La Grande Main Street Downtown is encouraging the community to shop local Saturday. The "Small Business Saturday" idea was founded in 2010 and is held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, according to a press release sent from La Grande Main Street. "Forevery dollar spent atalocalbusiness, 45 centsisreinvestedlocally,versus 15 cents if you shop at a corporate chain," said Dean Travis, front end manager of Red Cross Drugstore."That's quite a bit if you look at a full year of earnings." Twenty local businesses are participating,according totherelease. A raflle is being held to win a gift basket filled with goodies and gift certificates from local merchant to any community member shopping at the participating businesses, according to the release. The more businesses they purchase from, the more chances they have at winning the basket. For a list of the participating businesses and their deals for Saturday, visit www. lagrandemainstreet. org orvisitthe La Grande MainStreetFacebook page.

Oregon Ranchers Meet for 101stConvention in Bend BEND — The Oregon Cattlemen's Association will host its Annual Convention and Trade Show at The Riverhouse Hotel in Bend from Dec. 4 to Dec. 6. This year's event kicks off at 9 a.m. on Dec. 4 with a Beef QualityAssurance Training & Certification and concludes with a Billy Dean concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6. The 101st convention will feature a wide variety ofopportunitiesforproducersand the industry to receive information and updates on emerging topics in production, conservationand sustainability practices, regulation challenges, animal nutrition and beef marketing. A full agenda of events and sessions, as well as lodging and registration information, is available via the OCA website at www.orcattl e.com/2014/10/04/909/.Registration ino meals) will be sold at the door and is also available online or by calling the OCA offi ces at503-361-8941.

About thiscolumn Small Business Happenings covers Northeast Oregon's small-business community. The column carries news about business events, startups and owners and employees who earn awards and recognition or make significant gains in their careers. There is no charge for inclusion in the column, which is editorial in nature and is not ad space or a marketing tool. Products and services will be discussed only in general terms. Email items to biz@lagrandeobserver.com or call them in to 541-963-3161. Baker County residents can submit items to news@bakercityherald.com or call them in to 541-523-3673.

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• Taxing exemptions UnionCounty's 10 largesttaxpayers The following list shows the county's largest taxpayers for 2014-15: allows company to Assessed value Total tax save money, and give Name 1. Boise Building Solutions Mfg. $40, 8 23,774 $442,291.81 2. Union Pacific Railroad Co. $400,925.21 $39,313,500 back to the county By Cherise Kaechele WesCom News Service

A tax exemption being utilized by the local wind farm company Telocaset Wind Power Partners is allowing several local taxing districts to reap the benefits and get some extra money. Also known as EDP Renewals, the company owns the Elkhorn Valley wind farm between Union and North Powder. The farm is in a tax exemption program known as a Strategic Investment Program, which saves the company money while also giving 25 percentofthetotaltax savings to the taxing districts. The wind farm is considered a utility, said Linda Hill, Union County tax assessor director. "There are several things about them that are a little different," she said."They're considered a utility, similar to other energy companies. A railroad, too, is considered a utility. As such, their realmarket value isappraised

every year by the ioregonl De-

3. Telocaset Wind Power Partners 4. Wal Mart Real Estate Business Trust 5. Avista Corp. 6. Northwest Pipeline Corp 7. Frontier Communications 8.Tesoro Logistics NW Pipeline 9. Safeway Inc. 10. Charter Communications

$28, 260,818 $18,684,083 $12,909,000 $16,151,700 $11,258,000 $14, 0 02,000 $7,118,074 $6,874,000

$263,351.04 $217,906.06 $1 64,905.85 $144,215.09 $1 38,631.27 $1 24,050.59 $110,499.53 $104,869.20

Source: Union CountyTexAssessor

partment of Revenue. The department then sends their value to the tax assessors office.o Twenty-five percent of what the company saves under this tax exemptioniscollected asa com munity service fee and distributed to taxing districts across the county. In the 2014 tax year, the Powder Rural Fire Protection District received$26,426.61 from the wind farm.The Union Cemetery received $17,235.38 and Union

County received $129,354.76. The company is the only one in Union County utilizing the program. 'They'repaying themoney to the taxing districts," Hill said.

'There are 37 tax districts in the county." Taxing districts include rural fire districts, cemetery districts and mosquito control ivector controll thatlevy property taxes. oThe taxpayers voted ithe taxing districts) in and gave them theability to appropriate property taxes," Hill said. Every district has its own boundary, laid out at the time of the election when it was voted in. The City of La Grande is one tax code with the school district, La Grande Cemetery, vector control and the 4-H districts within the one code. The wind farm and its turSeeTaxes / Page 2B

he HuSngton Post recently issued an infographic titled"13 Disturbing Facts About Employee Engagement." While all were relevant, ive were criticaltoleaders f becausethey directlyrelate to leading managers. Eighty percent of senior managersare notpassionate about their work. Three quarters of those surveyedstruggletoattract and recruit quality people needed for growth. Eighty-six percent of business and HR leaders do not have a good leadership development plan. Business leaders also think that they have a significant employee retention and engagement issues. The last fact is that only a fraction i6 percent) believes thatthe current processfor managing performance is worth the time to execute it. How did it get to this point?How diditgetso bad? And, more importantly, what can be done to change things? It all starts and ends with the leader — the man or woman at the top. They must be willing to personally change to improve the engagement levels of employees. Let me define this specifically. These individuals need to stop giving orders, stop secondguessing their subordinates and start coaching peopleforbetterperformance. I know from personal experience that the most importantaspecttobe engaged was to be trusted. The level oftrustaleaderplacesin any subordinate will determine the level of engagement of the subordinate. Where there is no trust, there will be no engagement. I would have welcomed coaching from my bosses to become better. Some organizations value developmentbut many do not. Often people are promoted because they have been at SeeKeller / Page 2B

HOLIDAY COSTS

Cost of Thanksgiving going up, but not by much The Associated Press

Giving thanks will be a little costlier this year, but — and here's something you can be truly thankful for — it probably won't empty your wallet. The price for putting Thanksgiving dinner on the table for 10 people is expected to rise slightly thisyear,clocking in at$49.41. That's 37 cents higher than in 2013. For that, you can blame dairyproducts,coffee and that all-important marshmallowtopped sweet potatocasserole, according to the annual informal survey of consumer grocery prices performed by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The group found that the price of dairy — as in milk for the mashed potatoes and whipped cream for the pies — collectively jumped 25cents overlastyear. Miscellaneous ingredients, such as coffee, sugar and eggs, account

Average cost of Thanksgivingdinner for 10 people $70

2014 dollars (adjusted for inflation): $62.26

2014: $49.41

Actual cost(unadjusted): $28.74

1986

1990

1995

for another 28 cents, while 3 pounds of sweet potatoes jumped 20 cents. The good news is that a drop in fuel prices won't just make it

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2000

2005

2010

2014

cheapertodriveto Grandma's houseforthe big me al,italso helped keep down the cost of some ingredients. Flour-based foods, such as stuSng mix, pie

shells and dinner rolls, will run about 21 cents less than last year, likely due to energy cost savings by the processors, says John Anderson, the Farm Bureau's deputy chief economist. The group estimates the cost of Thanksgiving dinner by averaging non-sale food prices around the country based on feeding 10 peoplea meal ofturkey,bread stuftng,sweet potatoes,rolls withbutter,peas,cranberries, carrots and celery, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk. And yes, their estimates account for needing leftovers. And here's something to consider: Though this year's cost is up, it's still 7 cents lower than in 2012. News earlier this week that turkey production is at its lowest level in nearly three decades and SeeCost / Page 2B

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SB — THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD

TRAVEL

Clandestine family affair needs complete confession DEARABBY:I recently found out my daughter has been having an affair with her sister's husband. This will tear our family apart. It will also have a huge impact on my grandchildren. I have not yet told my wife, who will be devastated, but I'm having trouble carrying this burden alone. I feel they should be held accountable. Should I look the other way, or make them responsible for their actions, knowing the hell it will create?

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2014

COFFEE BREAK

Rain,snowcouldmessuy Thanksgiving travel ylans

lend a hand. Some people would consider it a compliment; however, if you're not close, it IS presumptuous. And if you prefer not to be recruited, all you have to say is, "I'd rather not."

The Associated Press

MINEOLA, N.Y. Thanksgiving travelers scrambled to change their plansand beat a storm expected to bring snow, slush and rain to the crowded Washington-to-Boston corridor Wednesday on one of the busiest, most stressfuldays of the year. Forecasters said major Northeast cities will probably see moderate to heavy rain most of the day, though New York and other places were alsogearing up forseveral inches of snow. Higher elevations west of the Interstate 95 corridor could see as much as 6 to 12 inchesbeforethenor'easter exits Wednesday night, meteorologist Andrew Orrison sard. "I always go on Tuesday to try to avoid the Wednesday rush, but it seems like more people are leaving on Tuesday now," said Bill Fraser, a landscaper from Henniker, New Hampshire, who was taking a train from Boston to New Rochelle, New York, to visit his mother for Thanksgiving. Jenna Bouffard, a New York City public relations executive headed in the oppositedirection,changed her bus ticket from Wednesday to Tuesday. "I don't want to risk it," she said. "I'd rather be safe than sorry, and if it doesn't snow, then I just have an extra day at home with my family" in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. Major airlines dropped

DEARABBY: Nowadays, I'm learning about the deaths of family members and friends by email, and I'm uncertain how to respond. p EAR I always send thoughtful, personal handwritten notes ofcondolence. Bu thow bestto — STRESSING IN THE USA acknowledge or respond to the email? DEAR STRESSING: What an unfortuIt seemswrong to ignore itin favor of nate mess. Please do not assume that you sendinga letter via the Postal Service, beare responsible for any damage that may cause my message will take a while to reach result from this affair. Because you know the bereaved. But it also seemswrong to say, "Oh, so sad to hear the news"in an email, about it, it's logical to assume that it's only a matter of time until others find out what asifthat was the sum total of my thoughts. has been going on. What to do? That's why you should talk to your — CARING OUT WEST DEAR CARING: Here's what I do. I pick daughter. Tell her you know about the affair and will now have to inform her sister, who up the phone and call the person who sent the email, or a member of the family that deserves to know that her marriage is in serious trouble and why. If you do, it may sufferedthe loss. I express my sympathy and find out the save the marriage. details — such as where and when the DEARABBY: In the past few months I funeral or memorial will be held, and if I have gone to different parties for friends can send flowers or make a donation. Then I from my church group. I always go to the cel- write the condolence note. ebrations eager to meet and chat with people I haven't seen in years. DEAR READERS: Tomorrow is ThanksH owever, onething bothersme about these giving, and no Thanksgiving would be get-togethers. Toward the middle of the event, complete without my sharing the traditional I often get approached by the host who will prayer penned by my dear mother: ask me to assist with a certain task such as Oh, Heavenly Father, setting up the table, clearing or even doing We thank Thee for food and remember the hungry. the dishes. No one else is ever asked to help. I was raised in a family that emphasized We thank Thee for health and remember the sick. good manners and to always be willing to We thank Thee for friends and remember help a friend. But in these situations I feel uncomfortable because I don't want to refuse the friendless. my host and I wasinvited as a"guest." We thank Thee for freedom and rememIsn'tit rude for a host to ask aguest to ber the enslaved. May these remembrances stir us to service, help clean? If so, what would be the approThat Thy gifts to us may be used for othpriate response? — INFRINGED UPON ers. Amen. IN CONNECTICUT DEAR INFRINGED UPON: Whether it's Have a safe and happy celebration, everyone. presumptuous to ask depends upon how — Love, ABBY closethe hostisto the guestbeing asked to

• ACCuWeather.cOm ForeCaS Tonight

Showers around

Mostly cloudy

A little rain

Baker City Temperatures

High I low (comfort index)

46 35

32 (3

46 35

31 12 0

29 1

52 31 ( 1 )

42 20 (0 )

33 23 (>)

41 32 ( > )

38 20 ( 0)

32 1 (2)

La Grande Temperatures 42 (7) 5 2 42 (v) Enterprise Temperatures

36 (6)

50 36 (~)

The AccuWeather Comfort Index is an indication of how it feels based on humidity and temperature where 0 is least comfortable and 10 is most comfortable for this time of year. e

Shown is Thursddy's weather weather. Temperatures ar~ e d nesday night's lows and Thursday's highs.

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• Chance of snow • Ch a n ce of rain • Snow likely • Rain l i k ely • Chance of mixed • Mi xed precipitation likely precipitation Source: National Weather r v i ce Gra hic: Tnhune'Newe Serv e

theirticket-change feesfor people flying in and out of the Northeast, allowing passengers to try to sneak on an earlier flight, though that appeared to be a challenging proposition, since most planes were filled. By midafternoonTuesday, just 14 flights within the U.S. were canceled for Wednesday, according to tracking service FlightAware. That's well below the norm for even a sunny day. United said it was planning to cancel 100 flights Wednesday in and out of Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey — a small fraction of the trafftc there.Delta planned to scrub 57 flights. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates Kennedy, LaGuardia and Newark Liberty airports, said it was lining up extra staff and snow removal equipment in the event of a

r icultu

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i' Salem

Thursday forecast

Baker City High Tuesday ................ 51 Low Tuesday ................. 32 Precipitation Tuesday ......................... .. 0.01" Month to date ................ .. 0.46" Normal month to date .. ... 0.74" Year to date ................... .. 6.73" Normal year to date ...... .. 8.99" La Grande High Tuesday ................ 55 Low Tuesday ................. 37 Precipitation Tuesday ......................... ... 0.64" Month to date ................ ... 1.85" Normal month to date .. ... 1.69" Year to date ................... . 11.46" Normal year to date ...... . 14.52" Elgin High Tuesday .............................. 54 Low Tuesday ............................... 40 Precipitation Tuesday .................................... 0.22" Month to date ........................... 3.77" Normal month to date ............. 2.60" Year to date ............................ 31.55" Normal year to date ............... 20.15"

Sunday

Friday

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Severe weatherin the Northwest, East CoasStanf Midwest cotird affect Thanksgiving travel plans.

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Hay Information Thursday Lowest relative humidity ................ 55% Afternoon wind ........... S at 7 to 14 mph Hours of sunshine ...................... 6 hours Evapotranspiration .......................... 0.07 Reservoir Storage through midnight Tuesday Phillips Reservoir 15% of capacity Unity Reservoir 11% of capacity Owyhee Reservoir

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• Tuesday for the 48 contiguttus states

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High: 88 .............. Punta Gorda, Fla. Low: -15 ................ Angel Fire, N.M. ' W ettest: 7.21" .. Cape Canaveral, Fla. regon: High: 67 .......................... Hermiston Low: 28 ..................... Klamath Falls Wettest: 2.26" .................... Meacham

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Corvallis Eugene Hermiston Imnaha Joseph Lewiston Meacham Medford Newport Ontario Pasco Pendleton Portland Redmond Salem Spokane The Dalles Ukiah Walla Walla

Eagle Cap Wild. Wallowa Lake Thief Valley Res. Phillips Lake Brownlee Res. Emigrant St. Park McKay Reservoir Red Bridge St. Park

• • •

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peCreation F OreCaSt 37 47 40 49 46 46 50 50 59 52

27 38 29 36 35 33 39 40 45 42

Weather lwi: s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, l-ice.

•

On Nov. 27,1898, the famous "Portland" storm formed off Cape Cod, causing the loss of 200 lives. Many others were lost to the raging sea in 50 smallvessels.Boston received more than a foot of snow.

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.... 4:14 p.m. .... 7:06a.m. L ast New

186

12% of capacity 18% of capacity Stream Flows through midnight Tuesday Grande Ronde at Troy .......... 2400 cfs Thief Vly. Res. near N. Powder ... 4 cfs Burnt River near Unity .............. 5 cfs Lostine River at Lostine .............. N.A. Minam River at Minam .......... 975 cfs Powder River near Richland .... 71 cfs

Oon

Anthony Lakes Mt. Emily Rec.

Thief Valley Reservoir

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Sunset tonight ........ Sunrise Thursday ..

10% of capacity Wallowa Lake

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heavy snowfall. Crews were prepared to work in 12-hour shifts if necessary, officials sald. At Newark Airport, retiree Sue Hansen, who lives in Roscoe, Illinois, arrived early on Tuesday to avoid the rush ahead of a big family reunion near Morristown, New Jersey. "I've traveled the day before, and it was no good," she said, describing long lines, delays and lots of crowds."This wasn't bad at all." In Vermont, public safety officials warned that travel could be treacherous. Up to 16 inches of snow was forecast in some areas. There was a bright spot in theforecastforresidents of western New York, which last week saw up to 7 feet of snow. "Buffalo will predominantly miss this event," Orrison sald.

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